Design Philosophy

From a distance you can see that the design of the Plinius products is more than an applied styling exercise to the front panel. We have started from the ground up to produce a casing for our electronics that is unrivalled in its physical strength and visual simplicity. Wherever possible we have reduced the number of parts needed and then invested massively in refining and producing the remaining parts to the highest quality achievable with state of the art computer controlled machines allied with expert craftsman. Examples of this approach include the hydraulically formed corners on the amplifiers giving much greater strength and the one piece housing for the remote control unit that eliminates large joints and potential creaks.

The very process of holding the remote tells you that you are controlling both a powerful and precise product. It is designed specifically for the act of listening to music, not channel surfing on a television or changing the room temperature. The distinction is important because we believe that listening to music is a highly selective and emotional experience that requires a much greater level of concentration and precision to fully appreciate and enjoy.

As with music that you are not familiar with, truly innovative new designs can take time to understand and enjoy. How often have you heard music that you were first unsure of, that over repeated listening, has become a firm favourite. Our designs are fundamentally different to many other companies, and we hope that you will take the time to explore their unique character and qualities because we have not made them different simply to be different. We genuinely believe that their visual and tactile qualities do improve the experience of listening to music and that is our design goal!

Ross Stevens

Design Director.

CD101 specifications

Plinius Audio has earned a reputation for crafting high-quality audio equipment, and the CD101 is no exception. This CD player, designed for audiophiles, offers a blend of advanced technology and classic features that enhance the listening experience.

At the heart of the CD101 is its robust digital-to-analog converter (DAC). Plinius employs a high-performance DAC that is capable of delivering a wide dynamic range and low total harmonic distortion. This ensures that the audio produced is as faithful to the original recording as possible. The player supports various CD formats, making it versatile for different media collections.

One of the standout features of the Plinius CD101 is its sophisticated transport mechanism. The player utilizes a precision laser optical system that minimizes jitter, resulting in better playback clarity and detail. The transport is designed for reliability and longevity, reducing the wear and tear that can often affect other CD players.

In terms of build quality, the CD101 reflects Plinius’ commitment to craftsmanship. It features a sturdy chassis that reduces vibrations, which can negatively impact sound quality. The player has a minimalist yet elegant design, characterized by its clean lines and high-quality materials. This not only makes it a visually appealing addition to any audio system but also contributes to its overall performance.

Connectivity is another important aspect of the CD101. The player offers various outputs, including both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA connections. This allows users to integrate the CD player seamlessly with high-end amplifiers and speakers. Additionally, the CD101 includes a digital output, providing flexibility for those who wish to connect to external DACs or digital audio systems.

The user interface of the CD101 is intuitive and user-friendly. The remote control provides easy access to all functions, making it simple to navigate between tracks and adjust settings. Moreover, the loading tray is designed for smooth operation, ensuring that inserting and ejecting CDs is a hassle-free experience.

In conclusion, the Plinius Audio CD101 embodies a perfect balance of technology, build quality, and user-friendliness. Its outstanding performance, combined with thoughtful design features, makes it an excellent choice for anyone seeking to elevate their audio experience. Whether you are an avid collector of CDs or simply appreciate superior sound quality, the CD101 promises to deliver an unparalleled listening experience.