Michi has introduced its new Q5 Transport DAC, an audiophile-grade CD player, transport, and DAC in one.
The Michi Q5 Transport DAC has a ESS ES9028PRO DAC and an eight-channel digital-to-analog converter. Michi has implemented the DAC in a fully balanced, fully differential circuit design to offer precision audio reproduction with an extremely low noise floor, says the company ensuring “pristine sound with minimal distortion to both XLR and RCA analog outputs.”
The Q5 dedicates four channels within the DAC to each of the left and right audio signal paths, ensuring favourable detail retrieval and an expansive soundstage. For additional installation flexibility the Q5 also delivers CD audio to both coaxial and optical outputs, allowing the unit to act as a CD Transport.
The top-loading CD mechanism is constructed with precision optical laser pickup housed in a premium carbon fibre and CNC-machined aluminum chassis. The CD mechanism is further mounted on a custom floating spring assembly, reducing unwanted vibrations and providing a stable platform for CD playback.
The Q5 is also equipped with bespoke, dual in-house manufactured toroidal transformers that isolate digital and analog voltage supplies, significantly reducing noise and interference. The CD drive motor’s voltage and current supplies are also electrically isolated from the sensitive audio signals, preventing any potential motor noise from affecting the sound quality.
The Michi Q5 is also a versatile digital music hub. It supports a range of additional audio inputs, including PC-USB (up to 32-bit / 384kHz) with MQA and DSD 4X support, plus 24-bit / 192kHz coaxial and optical inputs. These features make the Q5 compatible with digital sources, as an ultra-high-performance DAC for your entire audio system.
The elegant front panel features a full-colour TFT display that showcases CD album artwork. The included Michi remote provides intuitive, seamless operation, while RS232 and Ethernet ports enable integration with popular automation systems, ensuring easy management of your audio setup.
The Michi Q5 Transport DAC will be available through authorized Michi dealers and in Canada through Kevro International starting in November 2024 for $8,499.