CD players might not be as popular as they once were, but they are still readily available, many packed with innovative early 21st century features. Our favorite, the Bose SoundTouch Music System IV, combines a single-slot CD player with voice control and music streaming. It's not the only game in town, however, as there are other excellent options available.
The Bose Wave SoundTouch Music System IV doesn't just support CDs. It also works with online music services, internet radio, your stored music library, and AM/FM radio. It also supports multiple audio formats, including MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC, and Apple Lossless. With 802.11 b/g/n wireless network compatibility, the device also works with Bluetooth.
Are you looking for more? When tied to an Amazon Alexa-enabled device, the Bose Wave SoundTouch Music System IV lets you enjoy hands-free voice access to music. You can also control the unit using one-touch physical access buttons or through the SoundTouch app for smartphones, tablets, and computers. For a multi-room experience, add other SoundTouch devices at any time.
The Bose Wave SoundTouch Music System IV is an expensive device that's not for everyone. If you're only looking for a CD player with the extras, look elsewhere on this list. Otherwise, this is the one we recommend the most.
The Como Audio Musica is beautifully designed and available in four finishes, piano black, hickory, piano white, and walnut. With a single-slot CD player, the device also includes FM and internet radio, Bluetooth streaming, and Wi-Fi connectivity. Built-in streaming services include Amazon Music, Spotify, Tidal, Napster, and Deezer. With Bluetooth integration, easily listen to other streaming services like Apple Music or your mobile device music collection.
For added flexibility, control the Musica with the included remote control, with physical buttons, or using the Como Audio app. Price could turn off some users, of course, as could the long list of features and integrations. Still, it's worth considering if you want me than an everyday CD player.
The TEAC PD-301 is a compact and versatile CD player that occupies a space of just 8.5-by-9.1-by 2.4-inches. This means it occupies less than half the space of regular-sized counterparts with a 17-inch width. Despite the small size, the device offers three outputs, including coax, optics, and analog(RCA), and three inputs, CD, FM, and USB.
If you're looking for a small CD player, this is one to consider. However, it does come at a higher price than regular-size devices with similar options.
The Marantz SA-10 features a unique mechanism that provides the best sound quality from conventional CD and SA-CD disks. It also serves as a fully-functional digital-to-analog converter for music stored on a home computer. The device offers DSP technology, or digital signal processing, which refers to various techniques for improving the accuracy and reliability of digital communications. When connected with the PM-10 integrated amplifier, it can further eliminate mechanical and electrical interference from your music.
No doubt, this device has limited appeal almost entirely because of its price. However, if you're looking for the best-of-the-best and money isn't a factor, this is the CD player to consider.
Bottom line
Most CD players on the market today do much more than let you listen to your old media. Many players, like our favorite, the Bose SoundTouch Music System IV, also includes the ability to stream music or listen to internet radio. We also love this device because it's part of Bose's larger SoundTouch ecosystem, which makes it expandable to match your changing needs.
