Fosi Audio’s new CD player, the Merak, presents itself as a compact device with a clear desktop orientation, designed for those seeking integration between physical media and workstations or smaller listening setups. The design features a silver sandblasted aluminum chassis and a top-loading system with a transparent lid - a choice that allows users to monitor the disc's rotation, appreciate its aesthetics, and aligns with the visual style of other desktop-inspired players like those from FiiO or Moondrop.
From a technical standpoint, the heart of the system is the Cirrus Logic CS43131 DAC chip, paired with a TPA6120 headphone amplifier. In my practical test, conducted exclusively in a desktop configuration, the device was tested via the front headphone output using a pair of Fosi Audio IM4 (a recommended pairing by the manufacturer, also sold as a bundle) and the HiFiMAN HE400SE. Despite the HiFiMAN HE400SE being known for a relatively low sensitivity that requires good current delivery, the Merak manages to drive them with adequate volume headroom, delivering a controlled sound free of obvious distortion.
I greatly appreciated the integration of the ESP (Electronic Shock Protection) system: even in a desktop environment, the protection against playback skips ensures impeccable continuity, making the Merak as reliable as higher-end players.The overall sound signature is characterized by neutrality: there are no marked colorations, the midrange remains clean and well-separated, while the high frequencies are defined without causing listening fatigue. Even with a limited discography at my disposal, the qualitative difference compared to compressed streaming is immediately noticeable in terms of dynamics and precision.
The playback mechanism proved to be stable with fast loading times ; the rotation is silent even at close range, such as in my desk setup.Beyond pure playback, the Merak integrates a ripping system to external memory. By inserting a flash drive into the rear USB port, you can convert CD tracks directly into WAV format (16-bit/44.1kHz). This operation is manageable via the onboard controls or the included remote (which is extremely responsive and intuitive), representing a practical solution for those wanting a quick digital copy without relying on external software or a PC. The front panel houses an OLED display that shows track timing and playback status, remaining legible even under intense ambient light. On the back, in addition to the USB port, there are line outputs and an optical output, allowing the Merak to be used as a simple transport to be connected to more complex external DACs. Volume is managed via a slider located on the right side of the device.The only flaws I found concern the product's design: the choice to produce it only in a silver finish - when most Fosi products are made in a satin black finish - does not guarantee full aesthetic compatibility, and in my opinion, the silk-screened labels are somewhat difficult to read.
In conclusion, the Fosi Audio Merak stands out as a solid and functional unit, capable of offering good drive for headphone listening and a refined aesthetic, meeting the needs of those seeking a return to CDs in a space-saving and technically updated format.
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