Compact discs and the associated playback equipment have experienced a prolonged decline, with sales diminishing and a bleak future anticipated. Nevertheless, there remains a dedicated group of enthusiasts who value the experience of listening to their favorite music not only on high-quality sound systems but also while traveling. For this audience, a limited selection of portable CD players is still being manufactured, and we have curated the latest models in this collection.
6. TOMASHI
The player features a timeless design, showcasing a compact display on the top cover along with its control buttons. In addition to its CD playback capability, it is equipped with a built-in Bluetooth 5.0 module, allowing for seamless audio transmission to wireless headphones and speakers. The ESP system enables buffering of up to 40 seconds of music, effectively minimizing disruptions caused by movement. This model operates on standard AA batteries, requiring two for functionality, and does not include a rechargeable battery. However, it can also be powered through an external adapter connected via a micro USB port, making it convenient for home use without depleting battery life. Included with the player are headphones, and it features a Bass Boost button to enhance low-frequency sounds. The device has a lightweight design, weighing just 229 grams.
Price: $50
5. KLIM Nomad
This device is designed more for users seeking a multifunctional player than for audiophiles. It not only plays CDs but also tunes into FM radio stations and supports file playback from a memory card. Users can connect headphones through a dual 3.5 mm jack or via Bluetooth. The integrated vibration absorption system and a 100-second memory buffer provide dependable playback whether on the move or in a vehicle. With a robust 2000 mAh battery, it offers a minimum of 10 hours of uninterrupted use, and it comes with branded in-ear headphones. The player has a weight of 250 grams.
Price: $50
4. SYITREN R-400
This device is offered under various brands, yet all iterations share a distinctive design reminiscent of a 1990s manga featuring combat robots. It is equipped with a state-of-the-art Bluetooth 5.3 module for seamless connectivity with wireless headphones and speakers, a built-in 2000 mAh battery, and a 16-second signal buffering system. Users can also connect wired headphones via a 3.5 mm jack. The battery requires up to 4 hours for a full charge, providing up to 10 hours of uninterrupted playback. Additionally, the back of the transparent outer casing features a removable bracket that allows the player to be positioned vertically. This player is available in four different colors and has a weight of 330 grams.
Price: $100
3. Moondrop DiscDream 2
The Moondrop portable player’s second generation features a classic design, highlighted by a transparent top cover and physical control buttons. It includes two outputs via a 3.5 mm mini-jack connector: one for headphone connection and the other for either digital or analog linear output. A small display indicates the operating modes of the player. This model is equipped with a CS43131 MasterHiFi DAC chip and a dedicated two-channel headphone amplifier. Additionally, the DiscDream 2 can function as an external DAC with a headphone amplifier for laptops or PCs. It supports PCM stream decoding with specifications up to 32 bit / 384 kHz and DSD up to DSD256. The output power of the Moondrop DiscDream 2 is 124 mW, providing a fixed output voltage of 2 V. Its built-in battery has a capacity of 3500 mAh, allowing for 9 hours of continuous use.
Price: $150
2. FiiO DM13
The FiiO portable CD player now features wireless Bluetooth connectivity with the aptX HD codec, a balanced 4.4 mm headphone output, and a USB-C port for transferring discs to external storage. Additionally, it includes an unbalanced 3.5 mm headphone output and connections for amplifier integration. This new model is also equipped with an analog linear output and a digital S/PDIF output. It utilizes the premium CS43198 DAC chip from Cirrus Logic, and with two amplifier modules, it can deliver up to 660 mW at 32 Ohms through a balanced connection. The built-in battery provides up to eight hours of continuous CD playback, and the FiiO DM13 can also operate while plugged into a power source. This model is offered in five different colors.
Price: $150
1. Moondrop DiscDream 2 Ultra
Building on the success of its initial player, the company has introduced an enhanced version known as the Ultra index. This model features dual DAC chips, a four-channel amplification system, a balanced headphone output, and seven linear power microcircuits. Constructed from aluminum and produced using CNC machining, the player boasts a foldable design. The transport system incorporates a dual-level shock absorption mechanism for the optical disc drive, complemented by a professional-grade laser head. The DAC section utilizes two Cirrus Logic MasterHiFi CS43131 chips, while a dedicated four-channel amplifier section drives the headphones. Additionally, the player includes a compact display that provides information such as the current track number, battery status, and playback duration. Similar to its predecessor, the DiscDream 2 Ultra can also function as an external DAC with a headphone amplifier for laptops or PCs.
Price: $300
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