Table of Contents

Features

About the Super Audio CD

•Super Audio CD is a new high-quality audio disc standard where music is recorded in the DSD (Direct Stream Digital) format (conventional CDs are recorded in the PCM format). The DSD format, using a sampling frequency 64 times higher than that of a conventional CD, and with 1-bit quantization, achieves both a wide frequency range and a wide dynamic range across the audible frequency range, and so provides music reproduction extremely faithful to the original sound.

•The Super Audio CD has two types; a 2 channel stereo disc and a Multi-channel disc which holds up to 6 independent channels. The multi-channel characteristic of the Super Audio CD features a speaker allocation system basically similar to the 5.1 channel output of current AV systems.

Features of the player

This player is designed to play back 2-channel and multi- channel Super Audio CDs, and conventional CDs, and provides the following features:

•Mounted with a Discrete Dual Laser Optical Pickup, capable of reading a Super Audio CD or conventional CD depending on the exclusive wavelength.

•Quicker track access performance enabled by an advanced servo mechanism.

•A Multi-Channel Management function that allows you to adjust the multi-channel playback environment according to the allocation and size of your speakers.

•A Super Audio D/A Converter and Direct Digital Sync System, which allows higher-quality sound reproduction.

•Editing of Disc and Track Titles, etc., on a TEXT display for Super Audio CDs and conventional CDs.

Others

•A Super Audio CD can mark up to 255 track numbers. This feature applies to SCD-C555ES.

•The supplied remote is capable of controlling both the SCD-C555ES and a conventional Sony CD player.

Getting Started		4
Before You Start the Hookup			4
Hooking Up the Audio Components				5


Location and Functions of Parts					8
Front Panel Parts Descriptions			8
Rear Panel Parts Descriptions			10
Remote Parts Descriptions 11


Playing Discs	12
Compatible Disc Types		12
Playing a Disc 14
Using the Display	15

Replacing Discs While Playing a Disc				18		US
Locating a Specific Disc		19
Locating a Specific Track		19
Locating a Particular Point in a Track				20
Playing Tracks Repeatedly 21
Playing Tracks in Random Order (Shuffle Play) 22
Creating Your Own Program (Program Play)					23
Listening to a Multi-channel Super Audio CD
(Multi-channel management function) 24


Storing Information About CDs					28
What You Can Do With the Disc Name				28
Labeling Discs (Disc Name) 29

Additional Information 31

Using the CONTROL A1II control system 31

Precautions 33

Notes on Discs 34

Troubleshooting 34

Specifications 35

Index 35

3US

SCD-C555ES specifications

The Sony SCD-C555ES is a state-of-the-art Super Audio CD (SACD) player that reflects the pinnacle of audio technology and design philosophy from Sony. Introduced in the early 2000s, it was part of Sony's esteemed ES (Elevated Standard) line, emphasizing high-quality audio playback that audiophiles have come to appreciate.

At the heart of the SCD-C555ES is its ability to play SACDs, a format that offers higher fidelity than traditional CDs due to its advanced DSD (Direct Stream Digital) encoding technology. This format captures audio at a much higher sampling rate, allowing for more detailed sound reproduction. In addition, the player is backward compatible, meaning it can also play regular CDs, providing versatility and ensuring access to vast music libraries.

One of the standout features of the SCD-C555ES is its dual-layer playback capability. This technology allows the player to read both the hybrid layer of an SACD, which is compatible with standard CD players, and the high-resolution layer, revealing remarkable audio depth. The SCD-C555ES is equipped with a robust construction designed to minimize vibration, ensuring that even the most subtle audio details are captured without interference.

In terms of connectivity, the player includes both balanced XLR outputs and unbalanced RCA outputs, enabling users to connect it to high-end audio systems for optimal results. The incorporation of advanced digital-to-analog converters contributes to the exceptional sound quality the player is renowned for, delivering breathtaking audio performance across various genres of music.

Part of the user-friendly design entails an intuitive interface and display that makes navigation through extensive playlists or selections easy and enjoyable. The SCD-C555ES also offers a range of programming options, catering to the diverse preferences of music lovers.

In conclusion, the Sony SCD-C555ES is more than just a CD player; it embodies a commitment to audio excellence. With its SACD capabilities, stunning engineering, and array of features aimed at audiophiles, the SCD-C555ES remains a cherished component in high-fidelity audio systems, bringing music to life with remarkable clarity and richness. Whether you are an avid collector of SACDs or someone seeking an exceptional audio experience, the SCD-C555ES is an investment that promises years of sonic enjoyment.

Sony SCD-C555ES manual Table of Contents

Models: SCD-C555ES

SCD-C555ES specifications