Optimizing the Output Level

581se/781i CD Player

Best performance is obtained when operating the Wadia Volume Control near the top of its range. If needed, the maximum output level of your Wadia 581se/781i CD Player can be adjusted to match the overall sensitivity of your system so that the critical listening will take place with the volume control operating near the top of its range.

The maximum output level of the Wadia 581se/781i CD Player is adjustable by means of a set of internal switches. The Wadia 581se/781i CD Player is factory set to accommodate the most common range of system sensitivity. If you find that your typical volume level during critical listening is below 65 on the volume display, it will be advantageous to use a different setting. To change the output level, consult your dealer.

Connecting to Other Digital Sources (Wadia 581ise/781i only)

The Wadia 581ise/781i CD Player is equipped with digital inputs which can accept digital signals from any of the established digital formats. (Input 1: Glass-fiber optical, Input 2: Coaxial with BNC connector, Input 3: Plastic-optical TOSLINK, Input 4: AES/EBU with XLR connector)

The Wadia 581ise/781i CD Player digital inputs will decode any word length up to 24-bit, and any of the standard digital audio sampling frequencies up to 96kHz.

Choosing a Digital Cable (Wadia 581ise/781i only)

While the Wadia 581ise/781i CD Player supports all currently accepted transmission formats for digital audio, we recommend using a high quality glass-fiber cable such as the one available from Wadia. Wadia Digital was the first company to use glass fiber-optic data transmission in digital audio. We have continually improved this format and believe that it offers the best, most consistent performance of all the available options.

Based on our experience, here is a list of digital interface methods in descending order of performance: 1 Glass optical (as implemented by Wadia)

2 AES/EBU using XLR connector

3 Coaxial cable using BNC connector

4 Coaxial cable using RCA connector

5 TOSLINK plastic-optical cable

The quality of any of these transmission methods depends on the quality of the cable and the sophistication of the transmitter and receiver. For example, a high quality coaxial cable can outperform a low quality AES/EBU cable. A high quality AES/EBU cable will outperform a poorly implemented glass optical system.

If you are using a coaxial cable we recommend that you have the cable terminated with a BNC connector. This will provide higher performance than an RCA connector. Your Wadia 581ise/781i comes with an RCA/BNC adapter that can be used for experimentation between different types of coaxial cable.

Again, we highly recommend that you take advantage of your dealer’s experience and, most importantly, trust your ears.

All XLR-type inputs and outputs on the Wadia 581se/581ise/781i CD Player, both digital and analog, use the standard audio pin configuration:

Pin 1 - Ground

Pin 2 - Positive signal

Pin 3 - Negative signal

581SE, 781I specifications

Wadia Digital is a renowned name in high-resolution audio playback, and two of its standout products, the Wadia 581SE and 781i, exemplify this legacy. Both models are revered for their exceptional sound quality and state-of-the-art technology, making them sought-after components for audiophiles.

The Wadia 581SE is a sophisticated CD player known for its remarkable audio fidelity. It boasts an advanced digital-to-analog converter (DAC) that utilizes a proprietary 24-bit design, which plays a crucial role in delivering accurate and detailed sound reproduction. The device also supports various digital formats and high-resolution audio playback, ensuring versatility in audio sources. Its unique rack-mountable design reflects both functionality and aesthetics, seamlessly integrating into any audio system.

On the other hand, the Wadia 781i expands upon the features of the 581SE by incorporating additional functionalities, including built-in streaming capabilities. This model is equipped with Wi-Fi and Ethernet ports, allowing users to access a plethora of music streaming services and digital audio files directly. Like its counterpart, the 781i utilizes high-end DAC technology, ensuring that every note is rendered with precision, clarity, and depth.

Both models boast Wadia's patented Digimaster technology, which upscales the digital signal, enhancing playback quality and enabling a more immersive listening experience. This technology also reduces jitter, ensuring that the music is reproduced faithfully and without distortion.

The build quality of both players is exceptional, with robust chassis designs that effectively minimize vibrations and interference. The elegant displays and intuitive interfaces enhance the user experience, allowing for seamless navigation through tracks and settings.

Another critical feature of the Wadia 581SE and 781i is their support for high-resolution audio formats. This capability allows users to enjoy music at resolutions that surpass traditional CD quality, making them ideal for those with extensive high-definition music libraries.

In summary, the Wadia Digital 581SE and 781i represent the pinnacle of high-end audio technology, combining strong build quality, advanced digital processing, and versatile playback options. These models cater to the discerning audiophile, delivering an unparalleled listening experience through a blend of innovation and artistry in sound engineering. Whether through CD playback or streaming high-resolution files, both devices ensure that every listening session is unforgettable.