Full Video Review : here
The Thesis (Delta) is a new dedicated compact disc audio transport, reading both conventional and HDCDs, and outputting flawless digital data to any high quality Digital-to-Analogue processor.
Heed have designed the Thesis Delta to be one of the best optical disc players available. Its uncompromising technical approach makes it well suited for partnering with the outstanding Thesis Alpha pre-amplifier.
Heed admit that it must be strange to offer a standalone CD-transport in a market that sees the format being diminished - yet perversley in more demand than ever in audio circles it would appear.
The contradiction is more prevalent with mass consumption arguably, opposed to the finer things in life and those of us whom choose to focus on quality as opposed to availability, quantity and instant gratification.
So the Delta inhabits a time and space in it's own parallel - and Heed by building on the blocks laid down in the acclaimed Obelisk DT have embellished their Thesis line with a premium digital transport to compliment this musical dimension.
With its sturdy mechanism and cleverly tuned internal suspension system, the readout of the digital data is exceptionally precise. From the separated power supplies to the high speed processor, every segment is working together to keep this digitally coded music perfectly healthy.
Without a DAC module, the delta is a transport with many digital outputs. Extending its possibilities with a converter board, the delta integrated CD player offers astonishing analogue quality, and truly enchanting musical experience.
Heed think that the best data retrieval and transfer from a source disc is a very complex task and must be made with extra care to achieve a great sound. In an audio market comprised of DACs-galore, it is understandable how one might be convinced that D-to-A conversion alone is responsible for superior performance.
This misconception can lead to expensive DACs being used with modest CD players as transports, akin to buying very expensive and demanding cartridges for mediocre turntables. The reality however remains inescapable: the best data retrieval and transfer from the source are essential for best possible D-to-A conversion.
The Thesis Delta can, with the addition of their outstanding DAC 2.3 card (and a change in output stage), be upgraded into a fully fledged high quality CD player if the merits of separation are not fundamentally achievable in your system however.
As with most things in life - we must be grounded in the relative also, and the Thesis Delta will enable you to grounded musically in whichever shape you choose to use. In true Heed fashion, and in particular with the Thesis line - it is a thing laid down for the purest and most faithful reasons - musical pleasure.
Available in a black casing with aluminium fascia (and controls).
Heed Audio Thesis Delta: CD Transport - Features & Benefits:
- Metal tray loader
- 4 Digital outputs
- Asynchronous, heavily buffered readout and output stages
- Quartz stabilized output signal
- Large current, transformator coupled digital output
- Separated linear supply rails for signal and logic
- Fully remote controllable
- Outputs:
- - 1 x S/PDIF RCA
- - 1 x BNC S/PDIF
- - 1 x TOSLINK Optical
- - 1 x I2S Output
- Output format: 44.1 kHz / 16 bit stereo
- Max. consumption: 15 W
- Weight: 4.2 kg
- Dimensions (WxHxD): 22 x 8.5 x 32.5 cm