Yamaha CD-C603 Review — A True Return to Classic Multi-Disc Hi-Fi
Few modern components recreate the classic “load and listen for hours” CD experience as well as the Yamaha CD-C603. This five-disc changer blends Yamaha’s proven engineering with practical features for real-world listening.
First Impressions & Build Quality
The CD-C603 immediately feels reassuring: a clean, understated front panel, a smooth-gliding tray, and whisper-quiet carousel operation. Despite housing five discs, it remains composed in use, with effective vibration control and tidy internal layout that helps minimise mechanical noise. Buttons are positive and the overall fit-and-finish inspires confidence in long-term ownership.
Features & Connectivity
- Five-Disc Carousel — Load five CDs and listen for hours. Yamaha’s Play X-Change lets you swap discs while one keeps playing.
- Pure Direct Mode — Disables display/digital outputs to reduce noise for a cleaner analogue signal.
- Front USB Playback — Plays MP3/WMA and high-resolution WAV/FLAC (up to 24-bit/96 kHz) from a memory stick.
- Outputs — Analogue RCA for plug-and-play; Optical digital for use as a quality CD transport into an external DAC or AV receiver.
- Programming & Everyday Control — Track programming, disc skip, and comprehensive transport control via the included remote.
Sound Quality
The CD-C603 prioritises musical enjoyment. Presentation is balanced and natural, with confident midrange detail and a stable stereo image. Bass has convincing weight without boom, and treble remains smooth over long sessions. Engage Pure Direct and you’ll notice a slightly blacker background and tidier micro-detail. Used via the optical output into a capable DAC or amplifier, it also serves as a rock-solid transport.
Everyday Use
The carousel changes discs quietly and quickly, making it perfect for background play or long listening sessions. The remote is comprehensive, covering disc navigation and programming. Some listeners may prefer larger button legends, but operation is responsive and consistent.
Real-World Performance
Across new releases and older discs, the Yamaha tracks reliably and keeps noise to a minimum. Paired with quality amplification, the soundstage is wide, instruments are clearly separated, and the overall character leans engaging rather than analytical — a signature many associate with Yamaha’s hi-fi heritage.
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Things to Consider
- Size — The 5-disc mechanism means a deeper chassis than single-disc players; check shelf depth.
- Remote Layout — Fully featured, though some may find the typography compact.
- Focused Product — This is a dedicated CD/USB player; network streaming is not included (by design).
Verdict — A Modern Classic for CD Lovers
The Yamaha CD-C603 brings back the pleasure of physical media with modern polish. It’s quiet, dependable and thoroughly enjoyable to listen to — whether you’re using its analogue outputs or feeding a separate DAC. If you value long sessions without disc-swapping and want the warmth and involvement of CDs, this is a superb choice.
- Sound Quality: 9.5 / 10
- Build Quality: 9 / 10
- Ease of Use: 8.5 / 10
- Value for Money: 9 / 10
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Key Specifications
| Disc Capacity | 5 (carousel) |
|---|---|
| Disc Formats | CD, CD-R/RW; USB: MP3/WMA/WAV/FLAC (up to 24-bit/96 kHz) |
| Outputs | Analogue RCA; Optical digital |
| Signature Features | Play X-Change; Pure Direct; Track programming |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | Approx. 435 × 116 × 405 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 5.6 kg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change discs while one is playing?
Yes. Play X-Change lets you swap four discs while one continues to play.
Does it support high-resolution files from USB?
Yes. WAV and FLAC up to 24-bit/96 kHz are supported, alongside MP3 and WMA.
Can I use it with an external DAC or AV receiver?
Yes. Use the optical digital output to feed your DAC or AVR for transport-grade playback.
Is the mechanism quiet?
The carousel and tray are engineered for near-silent operation, ideal for living rooms and listening rooms.
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