(January 30, 2025) CDs may not dominate the market like they once did, but there’s still a demand for physical media, especially among audiophiles and young collectors. Enter the Shanling CR60, a compact and intuitive CD transport and ripper now available in the U.S. through Forte Distribution. Priced at $299, this unit offers a straightforward solution for those who want to keep their CD collections alive while integrating seamlessly with modern digital audio setups.
Designed for maximum compatibility, the CR60 outputs to any DAC, AVR, or digital device that accepts optical, coaxial, or USB-A inputs. Whether you’re playing back CDs through a high-end stereo system or archiving your collection to a USB drive, digital audio player (DAP), or select Android devices and computers, the CR60 has you covered. The default format for ripping is WAV, with FLAC encoding available via an app. Each CD is automatically sorted into a new folder, complete with metadata.
With a focus on usability, Shanling has designed the CR60 to be as intuitive as possible. A small but effective 1.14” display provides essential playback and ripping information, while a simple switch on the rear panel toggles between playback and recording modes. Shanling says even those new to digital audio management will find it easy to use.
Under the hood, Shanling has opted for high-quality components to ensure reliability and performance. The CR60 features a Phillips CD drive paired with a Sanyo HD850 laser, delivering stable playback and accurate ripping.
Aesthetically, the CR60 is built to blend seamlessly into any system. Available in black or silver, its aluminum alloy chassis is built to be sturdy and stylish. Measuring 11.61” x 11.22” x 5.31”, it fits comfortably into rack-mounted setups or on desktops. A remote control and a USB-A to USB-C power cable are included in the package.
CD sales may be a fraction of what they once were, but they've recently experienced a resurgence. According to Billboard, more than 21 million CDs were sold in North America last year, with a significant portion purchased by Gen Z consumers. The CR60 caters to this renewed demand with an option that offers both playback and ripping.
For more details on the Shanling CR60, visit Forte Distribution.
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