The World’s First ‘Concentric’ Turntable and CD Player Combo is the Turducken of Hi-Fi

In the ever-evolving world of hi-fi audio, innovation often comes from unexpected combinations. The recent launch of Mixx Audio’s Analog+ music system exemplifies this trend by ingeniously merging a CD player and turntable into a single, concentric device. This novel design not only injects fun into the realm of audio gear but also solves practical space concerns, making it a notable addition in today’s increasingly compact living environments.

Unique Design: A Space-Saving Marvel

Mixx Audio’s Analog+ impresses with its unusual, yet clever, approach to combining two classic music media players. Positioned at the center of the turntable platter, the CD mechanism sits inside concentric circles alongside vinyl playback, an arrangement likened to a “turducken” of hi-fi by TechRadar. This marriage of components is truly distinctive compared to traditional setups where CD players and turntables are separate units.

Capturing the look of 1980s hi-fi aesthetics, the Analog+ comes in sleek black or white finishes suitable for modern interiors. It features a fully automatic record player with an Audio-Technica AT3600L cartridge, supporting both 7-inch and 12-inch vinyl at 33 or 45 rpm. The minimalistic front panel includes a small display and controls, providing a user-friendly experience without overwhelming clutter.

Technical Features and Playback Flexibility

The CD player embedded in the turntable offers substantial versatility beyond standard audio CDs. It supports audio and data CD-R and CD-RW discs, playing WAV, MP3, and WMA files up to 16-bit/44.1kHz, including 48kHz WAV files. The inclusion of Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity and an aux output further extends usability, allowing users to wirelessly stream music or connect to external audio devices seamlessly. The ability to control the player via an included remote adds a layer of convenience.

A Nod to Nostalgia with Modern Convenience

By integrating these classic formats, the Analog+ taps into a growing nostalgia for physical media among audiophiles and casual listeners alike. As streaming services dominate, such unique devices reignite appreciation for vinyl and CDs in an all-in-one package. Its design thoughtfully balances retro inspiration with contemporary features, bridging generations of music lovers.

Room for Exploration and Expansion

While the Analog+ impresses with its inventive approach, there are small opportunities that could enhance this concept further. For example, integrating support for higher-resolution audio formats beyond 48kHz WAV files might appeal to audiophiles seeking even finer sound quality. Additionally, expanding the Bluetooth codec support to include aptX or LDAC could provide improved wireless audio fidelity, an increasingly important consideration.

Moreover, exploring modular options or companion components might offer users tailored upgrades, such as enhanced cartridge options or digital input capabilities, complementing the core concentric design. Given the Analog+’s bold step into combined audio players, future iterations could push the boundaries of multifunctionality while maintaining simplicity and style.

Conclusion: An Audio Innovation Worth Hearing

Mixx Audio’s Analog+ stands out as an inventive, space-conscious hi-fi solution that brings together the best of vinyl and CD playback in a fresh, compact format. Although it introduces some unconventional design choices, it does so thoughtfully, catering to users looking for both practicality and a dash of nostalgia. For anyone intrigued by retro-modern audio equipment that makes a statement, this concentric turntable and CD combo certainly deserves attention.

For a detailed look at all the features and impressions, you can read the full article on TechRadar.