Wadia 861

COMPACT DISC PLAYER

Optimizing the Output Level

Connecting Other Digital Sources to your Wadia 861

Choosing a

Digital Cable

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 861 can be adjusted to match the overall sensitivity of your system so that the critical listening will take place with the volume control operating in near the top of its range.

The maximum output level of the Wadia 861 is adjustable by means of a set of internal switches. The Wadia 861 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.

Your Wadia 861 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 861 digital inputs will decode any word length up to 24-bit, and any of the standard digital audio sampling frequencies up to 96kHz.

While the Wadia 861 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 861 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 861, both digital and analog, use the standard audio pin configuration:

Pin 1 - Ground

Pin 2 - Positive signal Pin 3 - Negative signal

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Wadia Digital 861 manual Compact Disc Player

861 specifications

Wadia Digital has long been recognized as a pioneer in high-end audio equipment, and the Wadia 861 is no exception. This CD player, first introduced in the late 1990s, has carved out a noteworthy reputation in the audiophile community for its exceptional build quality and sonic performance.

One of the standout features of the Wadia 861 is its proprietary Digital to Analog Converter (DAC) design. The unit employs a 24-bit/192 kHz DAC that delivers an extraordinary level of detail and clarity. This high-resolution capability allows the Wadia 861 to reproduce audio tracks with a depth and richness that many standard CD players cannot match. The DAC is complemented by Wadia’s unique DigiMaster technology, which is responsible for precision digital filtering, contributing to the player’s ability to deliver a clean and natural sound.

Another noteworthy aspect of the Wadia 861 is its construction. Built with a robust chassis, the player minimizes resonance and vibration, providing a stable platform for the sensitive internal components. This attention to physical construction ensures that sound quality is not compromised by external interferences. The elegant design also embodies Wadia’s commitment to aesthetics, making it a visually appealing addition to any high-end audio system.

The Wadia 861 features both balanced and unbalanced output connections. The balanced outputs are particularly advantageous for those looking to integrate the player into a sophisticated audio setup, as they help to eliminate potential noise and maintain signal integrity over longer cable runs. Additionally, the unit has digital outputs, giving users the flexibility to connect to external DACs or processors, further enhancing its capabilities.

Moreover, the Wadia 861 supports a range of digital formats. While it is primarily designed for CD playback, its advanced technology ensures that it can effectively handle various digital audio signals. This versatility broadens its usability, accommodating various audio setups, whether through direct playback or as part of a larger digital audio chain.

In summary, the Wadia Digital 861 remains a benchmark for high-fidelity CD playback, thanks to its state-of-the-art DAC, solid construction, and superior audio output options. Audiophiles seeking an enriching listening experience find the Wadia 861 to be a remarkable investment, showcasing the perfect blend of technological innovation and classic craftsmanship.