Yamaha CD-S303 CD Player

The Yamaha CD-S303 CD player is a single-disc model designed for a home stereo system. It plays CDs and CD-R/RW discs, including discs containing MP3 and WMA files. Audio can be sent to another system component through an optical or coaxial digital output.

Who this CD player is for

This model suits listeners who keep their music collection on compact discs. Its single-disc mechanism is intended for listening to one album at a time rather than automatically changing between multiple discs.

CD-R/RW support means that you are not limited to commercially produced CDs. You can also listen to properly recorded discs containing MP3 or WMA files. This can be useful when archiving recordings from several albums or artists on a single disc.

Digital audio outputs

The optical digital output carries audio through an optical cable. Choose this connection when your amplifier, AV receiver, or converter has a corresponding optical input.

The coaxial digital output is intended for an audio component equipped with the same type of input. It requires a suitable coaxial digital cable. Only one of the two digital outputs needs to be connected.

Both outputs allow the player to send a digital signal to the converter in your chosen system component. After connecting the player, select the digital input used on that component. The supplied specification lists digital audio outputs only. If your amplifier has analog inputs only, a separate digital-to-analog converter may be required.

USB and iPod sources

USB and iPod support expands the choice of possible sources. However, the supported iPod generations, connection method, and storage-device file-system requirements are not specified. These functions should therefore be treated as additional options, while the main buying decision should be based on your need for disc playback and digital outputs.

Audio performance

For CD playback, the specified signal-to-noise ratio is 105 dB. The 96 dB dynamic range describes the difference between the quietest and loudest signals the player can reproduce. These figures can help when comparing the unit with other CD sources.

The stated total harmonic distortion of 0.003% also applies to CD playback. Its specified frequency range of 2 Hz-20 kHz covers the full range normally relevant when listening to compact discs.

Positioning in an audio system

The 435 mm-wide enclosure requires a full-size equipment shelf. The player is 86 mm high and 260 mm deep. Leave enough room behind it for the selected digital cable so that the connector and cable are not bent sharply against the enclosure.

The shelf must safely support the player’s 3.5 kg weight. Place the unit horizontally so that the disc mechanism operates in its intended position.

Technical specifications

FAQ

Who is this CD player best suited to?

It is designed for single-disc listening in a home stereo system. The model is particularly relevant for anyone with a collection of CDs and recorded CD-R/RW discs.

Do both digital outputs need to be connected?

No. One connection is sufficient, provided that it matches the input on your amplifier, receiver, or converter.

Can the player be connected to an analog amplifier?

Only digital outputs are listed. If the amplifier has analog inputs only, a separate digital-to-analog converter may be required between the two devices.

Can it play MP3 and WMA files?

Yes. These formats are supported when recorded on a CD-R/RW disc. Support for other file formats is not specified.

How much equipment-shelf space is required?

Allow a base area of at least 435 × 260 mm, as well as additional room for the cable connections at the rear. The shelf must safely support the 3.5 kg unit.