Simaudio, which is based in Quebec, Canada, has released the Neo 260D CD transport, which has a base retail price of $2000 USD, but can be ordered with a 32-bit DAC for an additional $1000. According to the company’s September 5th press release: “For music enthusiasts who simply want to play their CDs, the Neo 260D is the perfect solution. Borrowing much of its technology from the more exotic and costlier Evolution-series 650D, while incorporating the latest advancements in digital audio, the 260D extracts every last musical detail from the disc. Adding the 32-bit DAC allows for direct streaming of music from your computer, enjoying satellite movie channels with the audio fidelity of your music system, and listening to Blu-ray movies with the same fervor as your music collection.”
The 260D is said to use a proprietary drive mechanism mounted on Simaudio’s M-Quattra suspension system. The transport section features S/PDIF and AES/EBU outputs, while the optional DAC section has one USB, one TosLink, and two S/PDIF inputs, as well as a “virtually jitter-free ‘1 picosecond’ digital clocking system resulting in ultra-low distortion.” The Neo 260D is available now.
