Best CD Players of 2025

Jerry Franklin Avatar
Jerry Franklin
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

CD players are electronic devices that play compact discs. They were first introduced in the 1980s and quickly became a popular way to listen to music. CD players come in a variety of sizes and styles, from portable players to home stereo systems. They offer high-quality sound and are compatible with a wide range of music genres. Some CD players also include features such as programmable playlists and remote controls. Despite the rise of digital music streaming services, CD players remain a popular choice for those who prefer physical media and a more traditional listening experience.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Onkyo DXC390 6 Disc CD Changer Cover #TOP 1
Onkyo DXC390 6 Disc CD Changer
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Onkyo C-7030 Home Audio CD Player Cover #TOP 2
Onkyo C-7030 Home Audio CD Player
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Pioneer CD Player Home Cover #TOP 3
Pioneer CD Player Home
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 CD Players

#TOP 1

Onkyo DXC390 6 Disc CD Changer

DX-C390
Black
Onkyo DXC390 6 Disc CD Changer Cover
Onkyo DXC390 6 Disc CD Changer,Black

The Onkyo DXC390 6 Disc CD Changer is a high-precision, multi-bit D/A converter and 128 x oversampling CD player that offers crystal-clear playback and enhanced audio signal. It features 6-disc capability, 6 repeat modes, 40 track programming, and the ability to change 5 discs while the last one is still playing. The DX-C390 also boasts Direct Digital Path, a heavily shielded, high-quality cable that protects the delicate audio signal from noise emitted by the surrounding circuits. The brushed aluminum front panel and RI (Remote Interactive) Remote Control add to its convenience and aesthetic appeal.

What We Like
Great sound quality
Easy to set up
Multiple disc capability
Good value for money
Reliable performance
What We Don't Like
Remote control design could improve
Bulky design
#TOP 2

Onkyo C-7030 Home Audio CD Player

C-7030
Black
Onkyo C-7030 Home Audio CD Player Cover
Onkyo C-7030 Home Audio CD Player - Black

The Onkyo C-7030 Home Audio CD Player is a great choice for those looking for a high-quality audio player at an affordable price. It features a VLSC for Pulse Noise Reduction, a high-quality 192 kHz/24-Bit DAC, custom-designed transformers, a solid aluminum front panel, and differential headphone amp circuitry. It supports a variety of audio formats, including MP3, and has received positive reviews from customers for its sound quality and build quality. However, there have been some reports of quality control issues.

What We Like
Excellent sound quality
Quick loading times
Solid build quality
Responsive controls
Great value for price
What We Don't Like
Limited USB capability
Remote usability issues
#TOP 3

Pioneer CD Player Home

PD10AE
Black
1X1X1
Pioneer CD Player Home Cover
Pioneer CD Player Home, Black (PD-10AE)

The Pioneer CD Player Home (PD-10AE) is a high-quality CD player with a 192 kHz/24-bit DAC, a center-mounted drive for more rigid platform and less vibration, a high-accuracy clock, 25-track memory playback, random and repeat playback, and a large capacity EI transformer. It is optimized for CDs, for reliability and low noise, and is compatible with MP3 audio formats. Customers have praised its sound quality, ease of operation, and simple design.

What We Like
Excellent sound reproduction
Great build quality
Easy setup
Affordable price
Heavy and durable
What We Don't Like
Lacks diverse connection options
#TOP 4

Yamaha CD-S303 Single CD Player

CDS303
Black
Yamaha CD-S303 Single CD Player Cover
Yamaha CD-S303 Single CD Player, Black

The Yamaha CD-S303 Single CD Player is a great choice for those looking for a high-quality audio experience. It features a high performance DAC for high conversion precision with low noise, a laser pickup floating mechanism, and an easily accessible USB port on the front panel. It supports playback of MP3, WMA, LPCM, AAC, and FLAC digital music files stored on USB memory devices, and includes a remote control. Customers have praised its performance and value, though some have had difficulty with the USB port.

What We Like
Excellent audio quality
Firmware update improves performance
Supports both digital and analog connections
Easy-to-use remote control
Reliable and sturdy build
What We Don't Like
Initial firmware issues
Limited USB folder recognition

Yamaha CD-C603

CD-C603BL
Black
Yamaha CD-C603 Cover
Yamaha CD-C603 5-Disc CD Changer with USB Playback

The Yamaha 5-Disc CD Changer allows you to enjoy music with dynamics and clarity. Its fully-opening tray lets you change 5 discs at once, and PlayXchange feature enables you to swap 4 discs while the 5th one plays. You can play music files via USB, supporting various formats like MP3, WAV, and FLAC. With RCA and Optical outputs, this CD changer ensures high-quality sound due to its intelligent digital servo and laser pickup floating mechanism.

What We Like
Outstanding sound quality
Efficient CD changer
Good build and design
Reliable after repairs
What We Don't Like
Remote control overly complicated
#TOP 6

NAD C 538 Compact Disc Player

NAD
C 538
grey
NAD C 538 Compact Disc Player Cover
NAD C 538 CD Player - Wolfson 24-bit DAC, CD-R/CD-RW Playback, Optical/Coaxial

The NAD C 538 Compact Disc Player is a great choice for those looking for a high-quality audio experience. It features a gross dimension of 435 x 70 x 249 mm (Gross) - 17 3/16 x 2 13/16 x 9 13/16 inches, a net weight of 3.0 kg (6.6 lbs), and a shipping weight of 4.3 kg (9.5 lbs). It supports MP3 audio format and has an auxiliary connectivity technology. Customers have praised its sound quality, simple interface, and great price. However, some have experienced issues with the front buttons being sensitive and the unit not playing WMA files.

What We Like
High-quality sound
Simple to use
Good value for price
Detailed and balanced audio
Stylish design
What We Don't Like
Control panel issues
Slow fast-forward capability
#TOP 7

Onkyo DX-C390-B 6-Disc CD Carousel Changer

DX-C390-B
Black
Onkyo DX-C390-B 6-Disc CD Carousel Changer Cover
Onkyo DX-C390-B 6-Disc CD Carousel Changer - Black

The Onkyo DX-C390-B 6-Disc CD Carousel Changer is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and versatile CD player. It plays Audio CDs, MP3 CDs, and CD-R/RWs, and can change up to 5 discs during playback. It also features VQA (Vector Quantize Audio) Conversion Technology and a Direct Digital Path for improved sound quality. Customers have praised the player for its smooth operation, quiet carousel, and light over the carousel. However, some have reported loud intermittent noises due to improper alignment of the CD in the playing tray.

What We Like
Great sound quality
Sleek and intuitive remote
Plays multiple CDs at once
Smooth tray operation
Easy installation
What We Don't Like
Requires remote for full functionality
Possible quality control issues
#TOP 8

Denon DCD-600NE Compact CD Player

DCD-600NE
Black
Denon DCD-600NE Compact CD Player Cover
Denon DCD-600NE Compact CD Player in a Vibration-Resistant Design | 2 Channels | Pure Direct Mode | Pair with PMA-600NE for Enhanced Sound Quality | Black

The Denon DCD-600NE Compact CD Player is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and high-quality audio experience. Featuring Denon's proprietary AL32 Processing technology, this CD player accurately reproduces sound closest to the original recording. It also plays CDs, CD-R/RW, MP3 and WMA files. The slim, vibration-resistant design and high-grade audio components make this CD player a great choice for any music lover.

What We Like
Warm sound quality
Solid construction
Plays various formats
Good analog output
Gapless playback feature
What We Don't Like
Remote lacks eject button
Single disc capacity
#TOP 9

S.M.S.L VMV PL100 CD Player

PL100
Silver
S.M.S.L VMV PL100 CD Player Cover
S.M.S.L VMV PL100 CS43131 Chip CD Player (Silver)

The S.M.S.L VMV PL100 CD Player enhances your listening experience with its advanced features. It includes a built-in CS43131 decoder chip, which optimizes the sound quality of your CDs, ensuring you enjoy every note. The second PLL circuit significantly reduces jitter during playback, delivering clearer audio. With both optical and coaxial digital outputs, you can easily connect it to a DAC for high-quality sound, even though it doesn't have built-in MQA decoding. Additionally, the sturdy aluminum alloy housing and gold-plated connections improve durability and signal quality, enhancing your overall audio setup.

What We Like
High-quality sound optimization
Reduced audio jitter
Versatile digital outputs
Durable aluminum housing
#TOP 10

Marantz CD6007 CD Player

CD6007/U1B
gold
Marantz CD6007 CD Player Cover
Marantz CD6007 Single Disc CD Player with USB Port (Black)

The Marantz CD6007 Player is a high-quality single-disc CD player with a USB port. With a frequency response range of 2 Hz - 20 kHz, it delivers exceptional audio performance, ensuring that you can enjoy every detail of your favorite music. The dynamic range of 100 dB and signal-to-noise ratio of 110 dB provide clear and immersive sound reproduction. The channel separation of 98 dB ensures that each instrument and vocal is accurately reproduced, creating a lifelike listening experience. The compact dimensions of 17.3" x 13.4" x 4.1" make it easy to fit into any home audio setup. Experience the convenience and superior audio quality of the Marantz CD6007 Player.

What We Like
High sound quality
Solid build quality
Simple operation
Good value for price
Aesthetic design
What We Don't Like
Some mechanical issues
Limited display features
Best CD Players Feature Image

Finding the Best CD Players for Your Lifestyle

With the evolution of technology, we have forgotten the CD layers and their optimal audio quality music experience as we have confined ourselves to the music apps that have provided us with each genre and type on our devices such as mobile phones. But still, many people have a vast collection of CDs and still enjoy listening to music through the CDs as it provides a better experience.

You don’t have to worry if you think that the CD player trend has far left behind and you might not get a CD player in the market because still a lot of people prefer CD players and a large number of companies are still manufacturing it.

Therefore, if you have finally decided to put all your precious CD collection to sue once again, you can easily get a CD player of your choice in the market.

Things to consider before buying a CD player

Here, is a buying guide listing all the factors you might want to consider before purchasing a CD player.

Impressive DAC

DAC is the computer chip that transforms digital signals into physical sound. Therefore, while deciding on the CD player purchase, the first and most important factor you might want to consider is that it should have an effective and impressive DAC for a better experience.

Built-in Speakers

Do consider a CD player that has built-in speakers to utilize less space and effective quality.

Bluetooth Connection

It is evident that you are considering buying a CD player because you want to utilize your CD collection but still keeping in mind the modern needs, you might want to get some extra features including Bluetooth connecting ability.

Total Harmonic Distortion

Total harmonic distortion the measure of distortion that is added to the sound as it travels from the CD player to the listener. Therefore, the lesser the value of total harmonic distortion, the better.

Programmability

Various CD players enable you to arrange your CD playlist in the sequence that you like. Some CD players work differently allowing the CD to shuffle in its sequence randomly. Some multi-disc CD players also help you shuffle the songs through various CDs.

Recording Capability

Through the recording option, you can also record the music meanwhile playing it. This feature is ideal for the people who love to just not listen to the music but also record it.

FAQs

Which type of player should I buy?

It's all up to you, there are many types of CD players on the market, such as portable CD players, single-disc CD players, charger CD players, and more. You can choose it according to your needs and preferences.

How to clean a CD player?

First of all, take out the CD and turn off the CD player. Then spray compressed air on the front to clean the dust. You can use a damp cloth to clean the opening as well as the surroundings.

Do more expensive CD players sound better?

The quality does not just depend on the price as these are the marketing strategies as companies are aware of the fact that consumers link the quality to the price. Therefore, it is not always true that more expensive CD players sound better.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is it worth keeping CDs?

Yes, it is worth keeping CDs if you enjoy listening to vintage EPs, live recordings, or special editions. CDs offer a unique mix of quality, affordability, and convenience, making them a valuable format for music enthusiasts. They provide a middle ground between vinyl and streaming, allowing you to enjoy your favorite music in a physical format.

2. What is replacing CDs?

Streaming services, such as Spotify, have become the preferred method for music consumption and are replacing CDs. Streaming services have outsold digital downloads and CDs in recent years and continue to grow in popularity. They offer a convenient and accessible way to listen to music, providing a wide range of options and personalized recommendations.

3. Are new CD players better than old ones?

Newer CD players may have improved digital-to-analog converter (DAC) architecture, which can result in better sound quality. However, it can be challenging to find an affordable player that offers significant improvements in Redbook CD playback. Some newer players may sound thin and lack body and warmth compared to older models. It is important to carefully evaluate the sound quality and features when considering a new CD player.

4. What should I look for in a good CD player?

When looking for a good CD player, consider factors such as Total Harmonic Distortion (THD+N), Signal-to-Noise Ratio (S/N ratio), linearity, total correlated jitter, and stop-band rejection. These specifications can provide insights into the player's sound quality and performance. Additionally, consider the build quality, connectivity options, and user-friendly features that suit your needs and preferences.

Editor's Notes

During our cd player research, we found 24 cd player products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 35,599 customer reviews through our big data system to write the cd players list. We found that most customers choose cd players with an average price of $254.30.

The cd players are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of cd players, including Onkyo, Pioneer, YAMAHA, NAD, Denon. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 2,367 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Jerry Franklin Avatar

Jerry Franklin's persistent curiosity and research inspire a love of writing how technical things work and help him build a wealth of knowledge in computer equipment and other electronic tools. He has always enjoyed great pleasure in taking all things apart and researching how to put them together again since his childhood.

CD Players Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Onkyo Onkyo Pioneer YAMAHA YAMAHA NAD Onkyo Denon Fanmusic Marantz
Color Black Black Black Black Black grey Black Black Silver gold
Connectivity Technology Infrared Auxiliary, Infrared RCA analog output ONLY USB Auxiliary USB Wires Auxiliary USB USB
Special Feature 6-Disc Changer, Multi-bit D/A Converter with 128x Oversampling Headphone Jack w/ Volume Control, 2 digital outputs (optical/coaxial) 25-Track memory playback, High-accuracy clock CD R - Portable, RW Compatible, CD R Portable, RW Compatible, CD R CD R - Special Chipset
Model Name DX-C390 C-7030 PD-10AE CDS303 - C 538 - DCD-600NE - CD6007
Item Weight 13.23 pounds 11.7 pounds 11.2 pounds 7.7 pounds - 6.6 pounds - - - -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
Where to Buy