Pathos Digit
Pathos Digit hybrid CD player with dual-mono design, dual 24-bit DAC and ECC88 valve output stage, for precise stereo playback.
Description
The Pathos Digit is a hybrid CD player that combines a modern digital architecture with an analogue valve output stage. Beneath its compact casing lies a fully symmetrical dual-mono design, intended to reproduce the audio signal with minimal interference between the two stereo channels.
The unit is built around a dual differential 24-bit Delta Sigma DAC, capable of handling conversion frequencies up to 192 kHz. The output stage uses two ECC88 valves operating in Class A, without feedback, a design that favours a characterful analogue sound rather than purely digital linearity. The stated dynamic range reaches 120 dB, with a total harmonic distortion (THD+N) figure of -100 dB, and a fixed output voltage of 2V.
In terms of connectivity, the Digit offers an unbalanced stereo audio output, a balanced stereo audio output and a coaxial digital output, allowing it to be paired with an amplifier fitted with RCA inputs as well as a unit equipped with XLR inputs, or to be used simply as a digital transport.
This player is aimed at CD source enthusiasts seeking playback with a distinctly valve-driven character, within a hi-fi system where the quality of the digital source remains critical. Its versatile range of outputs also makes it a sound choice for those wishing to experiment with different types of connections to their amplification.
Technical specifications
| Dynamic range | 120 dB |
| Distortion (THD+N) | -100 dB |
| Max. output voltage | 2V, fixed |
| Conversion frequency | up to 192 kHz |
| Valves | 2 x ECC88 |
| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 230 x 460 x 85 mm |
| Weight | 9 kg |
What to check before buying used
The optical assembly and loading tray deserve priority checking: an ageing laser or a stiff mechanism results in reading errors or a tray that struggles to open. The valve stage should also be listened to: the two ECC88 valves are wear items that will eventually hum, hiss or lose dynamics, and replacement remains possible but should be anticipated. Finally, checking the output voltage and the absence of background noise on both the RCA and XLR outputs confirms that the analogue stage has not drifted over time.
Looking for this reference: Digit ?
Tell us what you are looking for: our merchants are notified, and one of them may have it in stock.