Audiolab 6000A MkII with 6000CDT MkII CD Transport

Audiolab 6000A MkII Integrated Amplifier

Since the inception of the 6000A in 2016, Audiolab’s brand has undergone rapid evolution. The introduction of award-winning models in both digital music playback and integrated amplifier domains has cemented the company’s position at the forefront of audio technology. The 9000CDT, 9000N, 7000CDT, 7000N Play, 9000A, and 7000A models have exemplified Audiolab’s commitment to pushing performance boundaries across a range of price points. With the launch of the 9000A – Audiolab’s most advanced integrated amplifier – and the 7000A, positioned between the high-end 9000A and more affordable 6000A, the brand's engineers have introduced numerous technical advancements, culminating in the 6000A MKII.

Features

• Class AB amplification delivering 2x 50W (8Ω) / 2x 75W (4Ω)
• ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M DAC
• Low-noise, JFET-based MM phono stage
• HDMI ARC, four S/PDIF digital inputs and Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX HD
• Dedicated current-feedback headphone amplifier
• Integrated, Pre and Pre-Power operating modes

A Step-Up

The Audiolab 6000A MKII maintains the original 6000A's role as an accessible yet impressive 'step-up' amplifier, ideal for entry-level audiophiles, but now with significant upgrades in both sound and features. Visually, the MKII remains almost identical to its predecessor, ensuring seamless integration with existing components from the 6000, 7000, and 9000 series. This consistency in design allows for an enhanced listening experience while maintaining compatibility across the Audiolab range.

Power Supply

One of the key upgrades in the 6000A MKII is the enhanced transformer and power supply implementation. The design offers increased voltage from the secondary windings of the transformer, with reduced impedance for better control over the power supply voltage. This leads to the signature Audiolab sound – exceptional consistency, dynamic range, crisp definition, and rhythmic timing. The inclusion of a robust 200VA toroidal transformer, paired with four 15,000µF reservoir capacitors, ensures superior control over the music and impressive dynamic performance.

Advanced DAC and Expanded Connectivity

Audiolab has significantly improved the DAC performance in the MKII, now featuring the ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M chipset, an upgrade from the previous ES9018. This flagship DAC supports 32-bit/768kHz PCM and incorporates HyperStream® II architecture and Time Domain Jitter Eliminator, offering ultra-low noise and a remarkable dynamic range. The MKII also boasts expanded connectivity options, including four S/PDIF inputs and a HDMI ARC input for AV system integration. Bluetooth 5.1 aptX HD support further enhances streaming performance with superior range, speed, and quality.

Multi-Functional Operation

The 6000A MKII continues Audiolab’s minimalist philosophy to ensure maximum signal purity, with a precision analogue volume control and independent low-noise power supplies. The amplifier also includes an advanced phono stage with a high-quality, low-noise, JFET-based circuit. Additionally, the dedicated headphone amplifier provides a dynamic and detailed listening experience across a range of headphones. Audiolab has introduced multiple operational modes, including ‘Integrated’, ‘Pre’ and ‘Pre-Power’, offering flexible functionality for various setups, such as connecting the unit to an AV processor for home cinema systems.

A Benchmark in Integrated Amplifiers

The 6000A MKII builds on the reputation of its predecessor by offering outstanding value and high-quality sound in a more refined, versatile, and future-proof package. Audiolab’s continued dedication to improving performance through incremental advancements has resulted in an integrated amplifier that offers even greater performance, ensuring its place as an essential component for audiophiles and enthusiasts alike.

Audiolab 6000CDT MkII CD Transport

Since its introduction in 2018, the original 6000CDT has demonstrated the value of a focused approach to CD replay: read the disc accurately and deliver its digital signal to the listener’s chosen DAC.

The 6000CDT MKII takes that principle forward, drawing on eight years of development across Audiolab’s 6000, 7000 and 9000 Series. Its new mechanism, servo architecture, power supply and transformer implementation have been developed together, creating a thoroughly revised transport platform with the same clear purpose at its heart.

Features

• All-new CD mechanism engineered for greater physical stability, lower operating noise and quicker response
• Revised servo architecture continuously controlling laser focus, tracking and disc speed
• Reworked power supply with an updated, custom-specified transformer implementation
• Precision-controlled master clocking for stable digital output
• 75 ohm coaxial and optical S/PDIF digital outputs
• 12V trigger input and trigger link output for system integration

Precision at Source

Accurate CD replay starts with mechanical control. The 6000CDT MKII introduces a completely new CD mechanism, engineered for improved physical stability, lower operating noise and quicker response.

From loading a favourite album to moving between tracks, the design brings a more assured feel to everyday listening. Careful control of disc rotation, laser positioning and vibration provides a stable foundation for reliable data retrieval and dependable long-term use.

Keeping Every Track in Focus

A revised servo architecture continuously controls laser focus, tracking and disc speed. As the laser moves across the disc, it makes precise adjustments to accommodate changes in rotational speed, surface imperfections and disc eccentricity.

This more consistent control supports stable data recovery, with less unnecessary corrective activity. It also helps the transport make effective use of CD error correction when playing imperfect or lightly damaged discs, giving well-loved collections the attention they deserve.

Power with a Purpose

The demands of a spinning disc mechanism are very different from those of a precision clock or digital output stage. The 6000CDT MKII’s reworked power supply is designed around those differences.

Together with an updated, custom-specified transformer implementation, it supports consistent power delivery to the mechanism and servo while helping to limit the influence of motor and control noise on sensitive digital circuitry. The result is a stable electrical foundation for reliable disc reading and clean digital delivery.

From Disc to Your DAC

As a dedicated CD transport, the 6000CDT MKII concentrates on reading your discs and delivering their digital signal. Digital-to-analogue conversion takes place in your connected amplifier, preamplifier or standalone DAC, allowing you to make full use of the conversion stage already in your system.

A 75 ohm coaxial output and an optical S/PDIF output provide straightforward connection to compatible equipment. Precision-controlled master clocking supports stable digital output, while the optical connection also provides electrical isolation between the transport and the receiving component.

A Natural Partnership

With its matching full-width chassis, Black or Silver finish and clear display, the 6000CDT MKII sits naturally alongside the 6000A MKII. Connect the two digitally, and the amplifier’s ES9038Q2M DAC handles conversion, completing a coherent Audiolab CD system.

Its compatibility extends across the wider Audiolab range, including suitably equipped 7000 and 9000 Series components and the D7 and D9 DACs. Coaxial and optical connections also make it easy to integrate with compatible equipment from other manufacturers, so your CD source can remain part of your system as it evolves.

Made for Everyday Listening

The 6000CDT MKII is compatible with CD, CD-R, CD-RW and Data CDs, across sampling rates from 44.1kHz to 96kHz. Direct track access, repeat and random playback put familiar controls at your fingertips, while programming for up to 99 tracks lets you choose your own running order.

A 12V trigger input allows a compatible amplifier to bring the transport in and out of standby, with a trigger link output to pass the command to another compatible component. Display on/off control and selectable auto-standby settings let you tailor operation to your listening preferences.

Your Music. Your Collection

A CD collection holds more than music. It holds discoveries, favourites and albums you return to time and again. The 6000CDT MKII gives that collection a dedicated place in a modern hi-fi system, combining purposeful engineering, straightforward operation and the freedom to choose the components around it.

Audiolab 6000A MkII Specification

Audiolab 6000CDT MkII Specification