A CD transport sends the digital signal from a disc to a separate DAC or compatible receiver, letting your existing equipment handle digital-to-analog conversion. The best choice depends on which digital connections your DAC supports, whether you want to play or rip discs, and whether features such as MQA-CD decoding or clock inputs matter to your setup. Here are five options, with an important note: the supplied specifications do not list the CR60’s digital output connections, so check its connection details before buying if a particular output is essential.
Quick Comparison
| CD Transport | Notable connections or features | Best suited for |
|---|---|---|
| Shanling ET3 EVO Digital CD Transport | USB, I²S, coaxial, optical, and AES/EBU; network and wireless features | Listeners who want a transport and a broader digital media hub |
| Shanling CR60 Digital Transport CD Ripper | CD playback and app-assisted ripping to FLAC or WAV | Listeners who want to transfer discs to a compatible Android device |
| S.M.S.L PL200T MQA-CD Reference Digital Transport | USB, coaxial, optical, AES/EBU, I²S, and clock inputs | DAC owners seeking many connection and clocking options |
| S.M.S.L PL200T Digital CD Transport | Optical, coaxial, I²S, AES/EBU, and clock inputs | Setups that can use external clock synchronization |
| SMSL PL200T CD Player MQA-CD Transport | Optical, coaxial, I²S, AES/EBU, and clock input | Listeners who want clock input and multiple digital output types |
Our Picks: Best Cd Transport Systems With Digital Output reviews
1. Shanling ET3 EVO: A Transport With Broader Digital Media Features
The ET3 EVO is a dedicated CD transport, so it sends digital audio to a separate DAC or receiver rather than serving as the system’s main converter. It reads Audio CDs, CD-Rs, CD-RWs, and MQA-CDs, offering more disc-format flexibility than a basic CD-only transport.
Its connection range is a key strength. You get USB and I²S alongside coaxial, optical, and AES/EBU outputs. The listed maximums vary by connection: USB and I²S support PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD512, while coaxial, optical, and AES/EBU support up to PCM 192kHz and DSD64. Your DAC must support the format and connection for those signals to be useful.
The ET3 EVO also goes beyond disc playback. It can play several file formats from USB storage and includes Wi-Fi, DLNA, AirPlay, and Bluetooth features. That makes it a more involved choice than a straightforward transport. If you only need to send CDs to a DAC, some of its media and network functions may be unnecessary.
Pros:
- Reads Audio CDs, CD-Rs, CD-RWs, and MQA-CDs
- Offers several digital output types, including AES/EBU and I²S
- Plays a range of audio files from USB storage
- Includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth streaming features
Cons:
- Its many features may be more than a CD-only setup needs
- High-resolution support depends on the selected output and connected DAC
Verdict: Choose the ET3 EVO if you want a CD transport that can also serve as a flexible digital media source, and your DAC supports the outputs you plan to use.
2. Shanling CR60: A CD Transport With App-Assisted Ripping
The CR60 combines CD playback with a disc-ripping function. Its listed drive components include a Sanyo HD850 laser head and a Philips mechanism, while an Ingenic X1000 processor handles its internal processing. A small front display, physical controls, and a remote are included for day-to-day operation.
Its standout feature is app-assisted ripping. With the Eddict Player app, compatible Android smartphones and Shanling digital audio players can save CD content as FLAC or WAV, with metadata management available in the app. Compatibility is not universal: the product information notes that some Android phones may not work, and certain Shanling players require suitable firmware.
One detail needs careful checking before purchase: the supplied description does not name the CR60’s digital output ports or specify their supported formats. That makes it harder to compare directly with the other transports here. If your main goal is connecting it to a DAC, confirm the actual output connections and compatibility before choosing it. The product information lists DC 12V or USB-C 5V 2A power options.
Pros:
- Combines CD playback with disc ripping to FLAC or WAV through the app
- Includes a front display, control buttons, and a remote
- Offers two listed power options
- Includes metadata management for app-assisted ripping
Cons:
- The supplied specifications do not identify its digital output connections
- Ripping depends on compatible Android hardware and software
Verdict: Consider the CR60 if app-assisted CD ripping is a priority, but verify its output ports and your device’s app compatibility before buying it as a DAC-connected transport.
3. S.M.S.L PL200T Reference Transport: Broad Outputs and Clock Inputs
This PL200T listing is aimed at systems that need a wide range of digital connections. It specifies USB, coaxial, optical, AES/EBU, and I²S outputs, plus inputs for a 44.1kHz word clock and a 10MHz standard clock. Those clock connections are most relevant if your existing audio system is built to use external synchronization; they are not a must-have for every listener.
The listed USB capability reaches PCM 32-bit/768kHz and DSD512. The product information also describes MQA-CD decoding with 8x unfolding up to 384kHz. These are separate format and connection claims, so check your DAC’s supported inputs and formats instead of assuming every output carries every signal at the same rate.
Build and convenience details include a CNC-machined aluminum chassis, a transparent acrylic disc lid, an IPS display, and three power modes: built-in power, USB, or DC input. The combination gives it more system flexibility than a basic optical-or-coaxial transport, but the added connections and clock features make the most sense when your DAC or other components can use them.
Pros:
- Provides USB, coaxial, optical, AES/EBU, and I²S outputs
- Includes both word-clock and 10MHz clock inputs
- Specifies MQA-CD decoding and high-resolution USB output support
- Offers three listed power options and a visible disc lid
Cons:
- Some advanced features may go unused in a simple DAC setup
- Output format support varies by connection and connected equipment
Verdict: This is a strong fit for a system that can make use of its broad output selection, MQA-CD support, and external clock inputs.
4. S.M.S.L PL200T With Precision Clock Synchronization
This PL200T listing focuses on clock synchronization and mechanical disc control. It specifies inputs for a 44.1kHz word clock and a 10MHz standard clock, along with S.M.S.L’s P.A.S.S. servo system and vibration damping. The description also states support for full-format MQA-CD decoding.
For connecting to a DAC, the listed outputs are optical, coaxial, I²S, and AES/EBU. It also has three power options: an internal low-noise supply, USB, and DC input. This range can help the transport fit into different systems, but it is worth checking the input and output types on your own equipment before deciding which connections you will actually use.
Compared with the more extensively specified PL200T listing above, this version’s product information is less detailed about maximum sample rates and the USB output. Do not assume that all specifications listed for one PL200T entry apply to this listing. Confirm the exact version’s format support and connections with the seller if those details are important to your setup.
Pros:
- Lists optical, coaxial, I²S, and AES/EBU outputs
- Includes word-clock and 10MHz clock inputs
- Specifies P.A.S.S. servo control and vibration damping
- Offers built-in, USB, and DC power options
Cons:
- The supplied description gives limited detail about maximum output formats
- External clock support matters only for compatible system components
Verdict: Pick this version if its listed clock inputs and digital outputs match your system, but confirm format limits for the exact listing before ordering.
5. SMSL PL200T With Multiple Digital Outputs and Clock Input
This PL200T entry lists optical, coaxial, I²S, and AES/EBU outputs, as well as a clock input that supports 44.1kHz word clock and 10MHz standard or atomic clock. It also describes S.M.S.L’s precision access servo system and native MQA-CD support. The listed clock input impedance options are 50 or 75 ohms, a detail to match against the clock source if you plan to use one.
A transparent acrylic lid lets you see the disc during playback, while the product description also mentions a laminated IPS display. These are practical design details, but the main buying decision should be whether its output ports match your DAC. The description mentions USB input, but does not make USB an output; do not treat it as one without confirming the product’s connection layout.
This model overlaps with the other PL200T listings, but the product details are not identical. In particular, this description emphasizes clock-input impedance and does not provide the same USB output-rate information as the reference version. Check the exact listing carefully if you are comparing PL200T variants.
Pros:
- Lists four digital output types: optical, coaxial, I²S, and AES/EBU
- Supports specified word-clock and 10MHz clock inputs
- Includes native MQA-CD support and a P.A.S.S. servo system
- Has a transparent lid and an IPS display
Cons:
- The supplied description does not specify USB as a digital output
- Some format and output-rate details are not provided
Verdict: This version is worth considering if you want the listed digital outputs and clock input, but confirm its exact specifications and make sure your DAC connection is supported.
How to Choose a CD Transport With Digital Output
Match the output to your DAC
Start by checking the digital inputs on your DAC or receiver. Coaxial and optical are common connection types, while AES/EBU and I²S are useful only if your other component supports them. A transport with many output options is not automatically a better fit if your DAC accepts only one of them. For the CR60 in this roundup, the supplied details do not identify its output ports, so confirm them before buying.
Check format and sample-rate support by connection
A product may support different formats or maximum rates over USB, coaxial, optical, AES/EBU, or I²S. Compare the specific output you plan to use with your DAC’s capabilities. Do not assume the highest listed rate applies to every output, or that a DAC will accept every format the transport can send.
Decide whether you need a transport or a ripping tool
A dedicated transport sends disc audio to an external DAC. If you also want to save CDs as digital files, look for a ripping function and check how it works. The CR60 describes app-assisted ripping to FLAC or WAV, but it depends on compatible Android devices and software. The ET3 EVO, by contrast, is described as a transport with USB file playback and network features.
Consider disc formats and MQA-CD support
Check which discs you own and want to play. The ET3 EVO specifically lists Audio CDs, CD-Rs, CD-RWs, and MQA-CDs. The S.M.S.L PL200T listings also describe MQA-CD support, though the exact format details vary by listing. If your collection is mostly standard Audio CDs, broad format support may be less important than a reliable connection to your DAC.
Understand whether clock inputs will help your setup
Some PL200T versions list inputs for a 44.1kHz word clock and a 10MHz reference clock. These features are intended for systems with compatible clock equipment. If you do not have an external clock or a clear plan to add one, focus first on the transport’s digital outputs, disc support, and ease of use.
Look at power, controls, and day-to-day features
Power options and controls can affect how easily a transport fits into your system. The CR60 lists DC and USB-C power options and includes a display, buttons, and a remote. The PL200T listings describe multiple power modes, while the ET3 EVO adds wireless and network functions. Choose features you expect to use rather than paying attention only to the longest specification list.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a CD transport do?
A CD transport reads a disc and sends its digital audio signal to another component, usually a DAC or compatible receiver. The connected component handles the digital-to-analog conversion.
Do I need a separate DAC to use a CD transport?
In most setups, you need a compatible DAC or receiver with a matching digital input. Check the transport’s output type and your DAC’s input type before connecting them.
Which digital output should I use?
Use an output that both the transport and DAC support. Optical and coaxial are common choices, while AES/EBU and I²S require matching connections. The best option depends on your equipment and the formats each connection supports.
Does every output support the same audio formats?
No. Output capabilities can differ by connection. For example, the ET3 EVO lists different maximum format support for USB and I²S than for coaxial, optical, and AES/EBU. Check the product specifications and your DAC’s supported formats for the connection you plan to use.
Can these transports play MQA-CDs?
The ET3 EVO and the listed S.M.S.L PL200T models describe MQA-CD support. The CR60’s supplied description focuses on CD playback and ripping and does not specify MQA-CD support. Confirm the details for the exact model and listing.
Can the CR60 rip CDs to a phone?
The product information says the CR60 can rip CDs to FLAC or WAV through the Eddict Player app on compatible Android smartphones or Shanling digital audio players. It also notes that some Android phones may not be compatible.
Which option is the most versatile?
The ET3 EVO has the broadest mix of listed disc support, digital outputs, USB file playback, and wireless or network features. If you need clock inputs or want to focus on a particular DAC connection, compare the PL200T versions closely and confirm the specifications for the exact listing.
Final Recommendation
For a system that needs a wide choice of digital connections plus file playback and network features, the Shanling ET3 EVO is the most versatile option in this group. The S.M.S.L PL200T models are better suited to setups that can use their listed clock inputs and specialized outputs. The Shanling CR60 stands out for app-assisted ripping, but its supplied specifications do not identify its digital output ports. Before choosing any model, match its exact outputs and supported formats to your DAC.