DESCRIPTION

Do you envision your mega-changer as the ultimate digital recording source? Are you a fiend for mixes? With its digital coaxial output, the 200-disc CD-2260M admirably serves as a master CD source. It's second in Kenwood's lineup of mega-changers, and differs from its bigger brother, the CD-2280, in its lack of multi-room simultaneous playback compatibility. If your home isn't stereo-networked but you still want digital outs, this changer should be on your comparison list. First, you can make digital copies using its digital jack, skipping the 2260M's D/A converter entirely and sending a data stream directly to a compatible digital recorder, like a CD-R or MiniDisc. The jack should also be a welcome addition for an audiophile interested in using an external D/A converter (see link below). On the convenience side, you have the ability to name your discs (210 max, 25 characters each) and assign them to one of 26 music types. Then you can repeat or random play within those music types or globally, using the entire 200-disc magazine. Global random play is equipped with the circuitry to lock out already-played tracks, so you won't hear the same track twice until the entire magazine has played through once. Thirty-two tracks can be designated for the "best" file, giving you a personal Greatest Hits mix on call. Access to discs and tracks in your massive music library of music can be had through the remote or front panel, the latter featuring a convenient jog dial. The unit will begin playing as soon as you touch "power." Although Kenwood hypes the player's dual 1-bit D/A converter, Mark found the highs soft-edged and the bass fat on another Kenwood equipped with the same converter. As always, the final sound decision is yours.