High End 2022 • Hot Product

Metronome has undertaken a complete aesthetic and technological redesign of its highly regarded, iconic Kalista CD transport. The new Dreamplay X ($68,800 or €59,900) is both a CD transport and a streamer, with the option of a slim-line DAC module that fits almost invisibly underneath its new, more compact and more muscular chassis. Adding the DAC raises the price to $79,000 or €68,700, but for that you don’t just get decoding but a Leedh-designed digital preamp. The Dreamplay X is powered from a substantial, vertically disposed power supply and, if the DAC is incorporated, the power-supply chassis incorporates a second, dedicated supply for that. The unit at the show was atop a dedicated stand that matches the player/transport's footprint, adding further impact to the Dreamplay X’s impressive appearance.