Philips Embraces Analogue Retro August 20, 2007

Read more Digital Audio , Hi-fi , Music

There’s been a move in recent times to revive retro valve-based audio technology for the digital world – see the Shanling MC-30 or the Fatman iTube. Philips is hoping to bridge both camps with its new MCD908 DVD Micro Theater.

The system boasts two tiers, one fitted with old skool hi-fi tubes for that trademark warm sound and the other comprising a latest Class ‘D’ digital amplifier to pump it out through the two 75W speakers. Just look at the bottom tier in the photo and you might just see those tubes glowing through the face plate. Don't worry, there's a close-up after the jump.

The wooden speakers contain neodymium ribbon tweeters, silk dome midrange tweeters and 5in woofers. Ribbon tweeters deliver higher audio frequencies in a 180 degree arc for a wider ‘sweet spot’. Philips says what you end up is a warm, velvety - yet dynamic sound - with very low distortion.

All you need to prove Philips wrong or right is £399.-Martin Lynch

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