All-in-One CD Player, DAC, and Headphone Amplifier

The SMSL PL200 MK2 combines a high-resolution CD player, desktop DAC, headphone amplifier, and Bluetooth transmitter into a single unit. Built around the ESS ES9039Q2M DAC, a proprietary PASS CD servo system, and SMSL's patented PLFC fully-balanced headphone amplifier, it supports everything from traditional CD playback to high-resolution USB audio and wireless streaming. With balanced analog outputs, dedicated transport functionality, and comprehensive digital connectivity, the PL200 MK2 serves equally well as a complete desktop audio hub or the centerpiece of a larger Hi-Fi system.

All-in-one desktop audio hub

The PL200 MK2 brings together CD playback, USB DAC functionality, Bluetooth reception and transmission, and a dedicated headphone amplifier in one compact chassis. Whether playing physical discs, streaming from a computer, or feeding an external DAC, every source is handled through a unified interface designed for desktop Hi-Fi systems.

ESS ES9039Q2M DAC

An ESS ES9039Q2M DAC provides support for PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz, native DSD512, and up to 8× MQA unfolding. Combined with carefully implemented analog circuitry and low-noise power regulation, the DAC delivers THD+N as low as 0.000079% and dynamic range up to 127dB through the balanced outputs.

PASS precision CD transport

SMSL's proprietary PASS High-Precision Servo Architecture continuously manages spindle motor speed, focus, tracking, and radial balance through closed-loop control. A rigid transport mechanism and multi-point vibration damping reduce mechanical interference during playback, helping preserve the integrity of digital data before conversion.

Dedicated transport mode

Transport Mode disables the internal D/A conversion and headphone amplifier circuits, allowing the PL200 MK2 to operate as a pure CD transport. Optical, coaxial, and Bluetooth digital outputs remain active, providing a clean digital signal for connection to external DACs and digital processors while minimizing internal electrical noise.

Patented fully-balanced headphone amplifier

The integrated headphone amplifier uses SMSL's patented PLFC amplifier design with discrete circuitry to provide ample output for a wide range of headphones. Front-panel 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced headphone outputs support both portable headphones and demanding over-ear designs, while selectable low and high gain settings optimize compatibility across different impedance ranges.

Bidirectional Bluetooth connectivity

A Qualcomm Bluetooth platform supports SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, and LDAC codecs for wireless reception from compatible devices. The PL200 MK2 also functions as a Bluetooth transmitter, allowing audio from CDs or USB sources to be sent wirelessly to compatible headphones or speakers without additional hardware.

Comprehensive connectivity

The rear panel includes balanced XLR and RCA analog outputs alongside optical and coaxial digital outputs, USB-C audio input, and an external clock input for expanded system integration. Gold-plated connectors throughout provide durable connections for desktop and component Hi-Fi systems.

Precision-machined construction

A precision-machined aluminum chassis houses multiple low-noise voltage regulator circuits for stable power delivery throughout the system. The transparent top-loading disc cover preserves the tactile experience of CD playback while providing easy access to the transport mechanism.

IPS color display

A fully-laminated IPS color display presents playback status, audio format, and system information with a redesigned user interface. During Bluetooth playback from supported mobile devices, the display can also show synchronized song lyrics for an expanded viewing experience.

Measured performance

The PL200 MK2 was measured using an Audio Precision APx555B analyzer. Balanced outputs achieve up to 127dB dynamic range and 127dB signal-to-noise ratio, while RCA outputs measure up to 124dB for both dynamic range and SNR. These measurements reflect the careful implementation of the DAC, analog circuitry, and power supply.

Product highlights

• Top-loading CD player with proprietary PASS servo architecture
  
• ESS ES9039Q2M DAC
  
• Supports PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz
  
• Supports native DSD512
  
• Up to 8× MQA unfolding
  
• Patented PLFC fully-balanced headphone amplifier
  
• 3.5mm and 4.4mm headphone outputs
  
• USB DAC functionality
  
• Bluetooth input and Bluetooth transmitter
  
• Supports LDAC, aptX HD, aptX, AAC, and SBC
  
• Balanced XLR and RCA analog outputs
  
• Optical and coaxial digital outputs
  
• Dedicated Transport Mode
  
• External clock input
  
• Fully laminated IPS color display with lyric synchronization
  
• Precision-machined aluminum chassis

Specs

• DAC: ESS ES9039Q2M
  
• Input: USB-C, Bluetooth, CD
  
• Outputs: RCA, XLR, 3.5mm headphone, 4.4mm headphone, Optical, Coaxial,
• Bluetooth transmitter
  
• PCM Support: Up to 32-bit/768kHz
  
• DSD Support: Native DSD512 (22.5792MHz)
  
• MQA: Up to 8× unfolding
  
• Bluetooth Version: 5.1
  
• Bluetooth Codecs: SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, LDAC
  
• THD+N: 0.000079% (-122dB, unweighted)
  
• Dynamic Range: 127dB (XLR), 124dB (RCA)
  
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 127dB (XLR), 124dB (RCA)
  
• Headphone Gain: Low +4dB, High +8dB
  
• Headphone Output Power: 1.5W × 2 @ 16Ω, 750mW × 2 @ 32Ω, 160mW × 2 @
• 150Ω, 80mW × 2 @ 300Ω, 40mW × 2 @ 600Ω
  
• USB Compatibility: Windows 7/8/8.1/10/11 (driver required), macOS 10.6+, Linux (driverless)
  
• Power Consumption: 10W
  
• Standby Power: <0.5W
  
• Dimensions: 7.9 × 6.9 × 1.9 in. (200 × 175 × 47.9 mm)
  
• Weight: 3.48 lb (1.579 kg)

What's included

• SMSL PL200 MK2 CD Player / DAC / Headphone Amplifier
  
• Power cable
  
• User documentation