Unison Research Unico CD Due Valve CD Player

The Unison Research Unico CD Due is a flagship digital source that merges traditional disc playback with modern high-resolution streaming capability—executed through a hybrid valve/solid-state architecture that defines the Unico range. More than a conventional CD player, it is a fully-fledged digital hub, designed to extract maximum musicality from both physical media and external digital sources.

At its core lies an ESS Sabre ES9018K2M DAC, supported by advanced jitter suppression and high-resolution processing. This is paired with a valve-based Class A output stage, employing multiple ECC83 (12AX7) triodes configured to deliver both harmonic richness and low-noise performance. The result is a presentation that balances resolution with tonal density and fluidity—a hallmark of Unison Research design.

The CD transport itself is carefully isolated and shielded to minimise interference, while the internal layout emphasises short signal paths and component quality, ensuring low distortion and strong noise immunity.

Specifications

• Product Type: CD player with integrated DAC and valve output stage
• DAC: ESS Sabre ES9018K2M
• Valve Complement: 4 × ECC83 / 12AX7
• Output Stage: Class A valve stage with solid-state buffering

Digital Performance

• USB Input:
  • PCM up to 384kHz / 32-bit
  • DSD64 / DSD128 / DSD256
• Other Digital Inputs:
  • S/PDIF (coaxial)
  • AES/EBU
  • Toslink
• Bluetooth: Integrated (aptX support)

Outputs

• Analogue Outputs:
  • Balanced (XLR)
  • Single-ended (RCA)
• Digital Outputs:
  • Coaxial
  • Optical
  • AES/EBU

Core Audio Specs

• Frequency Response (CD): 20Hz – 20kHz
• THD+N: approx. 0.0003%

Physical

• Dimensions: 450 × 380 × 130 mm
• Weight: approx. 10 kg

In execution, the Unico CD Due is defined by its hybrid character—combining the precision of a modern DAC platform with the organic, dimensional qualities of a valve output stage. It avoids the sterility often associated with digital playback, instead presenting music with body, texture, and natural flow.

Crucially, it is not limited to disc replay. Its extensive digital inputs and high-resolution support position it as a central digital source component, capable of integrating computers, streamers, and wireless devices into a single, coherent system.

A modern digital source with unmistakably analogue sensibilities—where resolution meets musicality.

Condition: Excellent

Colour: Silver Face, Black body

Note: Unit includes remote and original packaging