MICHI Q5 TRANSPORT DAC: FINAL VERSION LAUNCHES WITH KEY UPGRADES

Rotel has confirmed that the final production version of the Rotel Michi Q5 Transport DAC will be available from early March 2025.

Following its pre-production preview at the Ascot HiFi Show in late 2024, the finished model features several refinements in both components and design.

We first brought you the news about the new Michi Q5 CD Transport and DAC in September 2024, but now it has been refined further and is due to hit the shops next month.

UPGRADED DAC AND CIRCUIT DESIGN

A standout feature of the Michi Q5 Transport DAC is its premium ESS ES9028PRO digital-to-analogue converter. While the pre-production model already included this highly regarded DAC, the final version optimises its implementation with a fully balanced, fully differential circuit design. This results in a lower noise floor and an even cleaner signal to both XLR and RCA outputs, refining the Q5’s already impressive performance.

MICHI Q5 ENHANCED CD TRANSPORT MECHANISM

Michi’s commitment to precision engineering continues with the Q5’s top-loading CD mechanism. Built into a CNC-machined aluminium chassis, the mechanism is now mounted on a floating spring assembly for additional vibration isolation, a refinement over the version seen at Ascot. This upgrade ensures more stable disc playback, reducing interference and enhancing overall audio fidelity. The main cosmetic change is that they have added glass slots to the CD lid so you can see the disc as it plays.

TOROIDAL TRANSFORMERS AND POWER SUPPLY IMPROVEMENTS

The Q5 features dual in-house manufactured toroidal transformers, designed to separate digital and analogue voltage supplies. This key enhancement reduces potential noise and interference, addressing a crucial aspect of high-end audio performance. Additionally, the final version ensures that the CD drive motor’s power supply is fully isolated, preventing any unwanted electrical noise from affecting playback.

VERSATILE DIGITAL AUDIO SUPPORT

Beyond its role as a high-performance CD player, the Michi Q5 functions as a comprehensive digital music hub. Supporting PC-USB (up to 32-bit / 384kHz) with MQA and DSD 4X, as well as coaxial and optical inputs at 24-bit / 192kHz, the Q5 integrates seamlessly into diverse audio setups. These features remain consistent with the pre-production model but have now been finalised for release.

REVISED DESIGN AND CONTROL OPTIONS

Visually, the final version of the Q5 retains Michi’s minimalist aesthetic but includes refinements to its high-resolution TFT display, which now provides improved CD album artwork rendering. The remote control and automation integration (via RS232 and Ethernet) ensure ease of use in a range of listening environments.

MICHI Q5 PRICING AND AVAILABILITY

The Michi Q5 Transport DAC will be available starting in March 2025, priced at £5,499 / $6,999 / €5,999.

HiFi PiG Says: Some subtle tweaks means the Michi Q5 is now ready for full public release.