ReviewFinder Home Audio CD Players

Yamaha CD-S300

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6 Verified Hands-On Reviews

To combat fake reviews we only accept video reviews from verified channels. Each review must show the product and the face of the reviewer.

Expert reviews [6]

78
Total expert reviews: 6
  • with a score: 3
  • without a score: 3
Highest score by yamaha.com
94
Average score based on 6 reviews
78
Lowest score by ProductReview.com.au
60

Score distribution:

80-100
60-80
40-60
20-40
0-20
ReviewFinder: authentic product reviews summarized by a powerful AI engine.

Expert consensus

The Yamaha CD-S300 CD player offers pleasing audio performance with a soulful vocal quality, smooth and flowing sound, and a well-balanced and solid sound, while its retro design and range of connectivity options make it a desirable choice, although the navigation system may be a drawback for some users.

The Yamaha CD-S300 CD player is highly praised for its pleasing audio performance, with a soulful and fully present vocal quality. The sound is described as smooth and flowing, with good accuracy in nuances. The player delivers a well-balanced and solid sound, although some reviewers mention slightly weakened dynamics and a drawn-in lower bass.

However, the upper register is detailed and graceful, and the player delivers a decent amount of punch.

In terms of connectivity options, the CD-S300 offers both Optical and Coaxial digital outputs, as well as RCA-style analog outputs. This allows for easy integration into various audio setups, whether connecting to amplifiers, receivers, or sound systems. The front USB port is Made for iPod certified, allowing for playback of USB sources at full resolution, making it convenient for those with digital music files stored on their iPod or USB device.

The design of the CD-S300 is praised for its retro style and sleek design. The device is finished immaculately, with all panels lining up perfectly, and the casework is top class with a high-quality fit and finish. The option to use spiked or unspiked feet adds to the attention to detail in the design.

However, the navigation system is not considered very intuitive, with slow and dim-witted responses, particularly when it comes to loading a disc or switching inputs.

The build quality of the CD-S300 is excellent, with a high-quality fit and finish indicating top-class construction. The use of premium materials, such as an aluminium unit for the drawer, enhances the durability and performance of the CD player. While specific details about the durability are not mentioned, the reputation of Yamaha's higher-end model suggests that the CD-S300 is likely to be a reliable and long-lasting option.

Overall, the Yamaha CD-S300 CD player is a well-rounded option for those seeking a high-quality CD player with a pleasing audio performance. It is suitable for various use cases, such as listening to vocal-focused music or integrating into a digital music setup. The stylish and elegant design, attention to detail in the construction, and range of connectivity options make it a desirable choice for those who value both aesthetics and performance.

However, the navigation system may be a drawback for users who prioritize a user-friendly and responsive interface.

Audio

The Yamaha CD-S300 CD player offers pleasing audio performance with a soulful vocal quality, smooth and flowing sound, and a range of connectivity options, making it a versatile choice for music enthusiasts.

The Yamaha CD-S300 CD player is praised for its pleasing audio performance, with a soulful and fully present vocal quality. The sound is described as smooth and flowing, with good accuracy in nuances. While some reviewers mention slightly weakened dynamics and a drawn-in lower bass, the upper register is detailed and graceful, and the player delivers a decent amount of punch.

Overall, the sound is well-balanced and solid.

In terms of connectivity options, the CD-S300 offers both Optical and Coaxial digital outputs, as well as RCA-style analog outputs. This allows for easy integration into various audio setups, whether connecting to amplifiers, receivers, or sound systems. The front USB port is Made for iPod certified, allowing for playback of USB sources at full resolution, making it convenient for those with digital music files stored on their iPod or USB device.

Unfortunately, the THD+N rating and S/N ratio of the CD-S300 are not explicitly mentioned in the available information. However, based on the expert reviews, the CD-S300 is a well-rounded CD player that offers a pleasing audio performance and a range of connectivity options, making it suitable for various use cases such as listening to vocal-focused music or integrating into a digital music setup.

How does the Yamaha CD-S300 perform in terms of audio quality?

According to the reviews in our database, the Yamaha CD-S300 CD player offers a pleasing audio performance. The sound is described as having a soulful and fully present vocal quality, without any noticeable digital stiffness. The music flows smoothly, without compromising on audiophile accuracy in nuances. However, some reviewers mention that the overall dynamics can be slightly weakened and the lower bass may be drawn in. On the positive side, the upper register is detailed and graceful, and the player delivers a decent dose of punch. Overall, the Yamaha CD-S300 is praised for its well-balanced sound and likeable solidity.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What do experts say about the bass of the Yamaha CD-S300?

According to the expert reviews in ReviewFinder's database, the Yamaha CD-S300 CD player has a slightly weakened and lower bass. The bass is described as drawn in, not overly prominent or boomy. It seems to prioritize balance and accuracy rather than emphasizing deep bass frequencies. However, it is important to note that individual preferences for bass response can vary, so it would be best to consider personal listening preferences when evaluating the bass performance of the CD-S300.
Based on 4 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What connectivity options are offered by the Yamaha CD-S300?

The Yamaha CD-S300 CD player offers several connectivity options. It has both Optical and Coaxial digital outputs, allowing you to connect it to other devices such as amplifiers, receivers, or sound systems that have corresponding input options. Additionally, it has RCA-style analog outputs, which can be useful if you want to connect it to a stereo system or amplifier that doesn't have digital inputs. The CD-S300 also features a front USB port that is Made for iPod certified. This means that you can connect your iPod or other USB devices to the CD player and play back your USB sources at full resolution. This can be a convenient option if you have digital music files stored on your iPod or USB device that you want to listen to using the CD-S300. Overall, the Yamaha CD-S300 provides a range of connectivity options, allowing you to easily integrate it into your audio setup and enjoy your music in various formats.
Based on 2 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

If available, what is the THD+N rating and the S/N ratio of the Yamaha CD-S300?

According to the information available in the product reviews, the THD+N (Total Harmonic Distortion plus Noise) rating and the S/N (Signal-to-Noise) ratio of the Yamaha CD-S300 CD Player are not explicitly mentioned. I apologize for the inconvenience.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Design

The Yamaha CD-S300 CD player is praised for its sleek design and attention to detail, but its navigation system is not considered very intuitive by experts.

The Yamaha CD-S300 CD player is praised for its retro style and sleek design. The device is finished immaculately, with all panels lining up perfectly, and the casework is top class with a high-quality fit and finish. The option to use spiked or unspiked feet adds to the attention to detail in the design.

The supplied remote control is also described as classy and easy to use.

However, the navigation system of the CD-S300 is not considered very intuitive by experts. Responses can be slow and dim-witted, particularly when it comes to loading a disc or switching inputs. This may be a drawback for users who prioritize a user-friendly and responsive navigation system.

Overall, the Yamaha CD-S300 CD player offers a stylish and elegant design with attention to detail. It is well-suited for users who value a retro aesthetic and appreciate high-quality craftsmanship. However, those who prioritize a user-friendly navigation system may want to consider other options.

What are the dimensions and size of the Yamaha CD-S300?

The dimensions of the Yamaha CD-S300 CD Player are approximately 17-1/8" (width) x 3-3/8" (height) x 10-1/4" (depth).
Based on 2 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the overall look and design of the Yamaha CD-S300?

The overall look and design of the Yamaha CD-S300 CD player is described as retro style with a sleek and elegant appearance. According to the review on HiFi Stereo, the device is finished immaculately and all the panels line up perfectly. The casework is top class with a fit and finish that is highly praised. The CD-S300 is designed with attention to detail, including the option to use spiked or unspiked feet, as mentioned in the review on What Hi-Fi. The supplied remote control is also described as classy and easy to use.
Based on 5 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

How intuitive is the navigation system of the Yamaha CD-S300?

According to the product experts at What Hi-Fi, the navigation system of the Yamaha CD-S300 is not very intuitive. They mention that responses can be a little dim-witted, especially when it comes to loading a disc or switching inputs. This suggests that the navigation system may not be the most user-friendly or responsive. However, it's worth noting that ease of use can be subjective, and some users may still find the navigation system satisfactory.
Based on 2 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

Build quality

The Yamaha CD-S300 CD player is praised for its excellent build quality and construction, with a high-quality fit and finish and the use of premium materials.

The Yamaha CD-S300 CD player is praised for its excellent build quality and construction. The casework is noted to have a high-quality fit and finish, indicating top-class construction. The use of an aluminium unit for the drawer is also mentioned, which adds to the overall durability and performance of the CD player.

While specific details about the other materials used are not mentioned, it can be inferred that Yamaha has used premium materials to enhance the build quality.

Although there is no specific mention of the durability of the CD-S300, the fact that Yamaha's higher-end model, the CD-S3000, is described as a "classy player" and is noted to be heavy suggests that Yamaha puts effort into the build quality of their CD players. While individual user needs may vary, the CD-S300 is likely to be a reliable and long-lasting option for those seeking a high-quality CD player.

What materials are used in the construction of the Yamaha CD-S300?

The Yamaha CD-S300 CD player is constructed with high-quality materials to ensure durability and performance. According to the product reviews in ReviewFinder database, the casework of the CD-S300 is made with excellent fit and finish, indicating top-class construction. The construction includes an aluminium unit for the drawer, which is said to glide out with grace, unlike the off-the-shelf plastic drawers used by many rivals. Although specific details about the other materials used in the construction are not mentioned in the reviews, it can be inferred that Yamaha has used premium materials to enhance the overall build quality of the CD-S300.
Based on 3 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

How does the Yamaha CD-S300 perform in terms of durability?

According to the expert reviews available, there is no specific mention of the durability of the Yamaha CD-S300 CD Player. However, it is worth noting that the CD-S3000, which is a higher-end model from Yamaha, is described as a "classy player" and is said to be heavy, weighing in at 19.2kg. This suggests that Yamaha has put effort into the build quality and construction of their CD players. While we cannot guarantee the durability of the CD-S300, Yamaha's reputation for producing high-quality audio equipment may indicate that it is built to last.
Based on 2 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

Best Alternatives

3 best home audio cd players in the same price range as Yamaha CD-S300

Scroll to see all options. Click on the cd player for more details.
Yamaha CD-S303 Denon DCD-900NE Cambridge Audio AXC35
Reviews
In comparison:
Yamaha CD-S303 rank #3 out of 124. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
8.3
Great
Reviews
We don't yet have enough review information for Denon DCD-900NE
Reviews
In comparison:
Cambridge Audio AXC35 rank #14 out of 124. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
9.1
Great
Price
Price
The Yamaha CD-S303 CD player offers impressive audio performance, high-quality construction, and flexible connectivity options, making it a great choice for those seeking detailed and accurate sound reproduction.
Expert consensus not yet generated.
The Cambridge Audio AXC35 CD Player is highly recommended for its exceptional audio quality, impressive bass performance, flexible connectivity options, sleek design, and durable build quality.
More product details More product details More product details
Home Audio CD Players above are offered because they are in the same price range as Yamaha CD-S300. To browse more budget and premium home audio cd players go to our cd player ranking .

Position in ranking

We maintain a monthly ranking that sums up expert recommendations for all home audio CD players.

Rank Change Price CD Player
iMore
history-computer.com
What Hi-Fi
BestCovery
Idsesmedia
Crutchfield
World Wide Stereo
BestReviews
MUO
Lifewire
1
- Check price
Onkyo DXC390
4
4
-
1
-
-
5
-
2
-
2
- $599
Cambridge Audio CXC
-
-
6
4
-
-
8
3
-
-
3
- $340
Yamaha CD-S303
-
-
-
-
-
1
3
-
-
-
4
- $549
Denon DCD-900NE
-
-
-
-
-
-
4
-
1
-
Show all rows
Yamaha CD-S300 did not receive any endorsements this month.

Highest recommended home audio cd players this month

ReviewFinder ranks based on a combination of customer reviews, expert reviews / mentions and popularity. Expert recommendations carry the highest weight in the ranking. We do not rank based on price, our commission or brand. home audio cd players below are at the top of our ranking this April.

Scroll to see all options. Click on the cd player for more details.
Onkyo DXC390 Cambridge Audio CXC Yamaha CD-S303 Denon DCD-900NE
Reviews
In comparison:
Onkyo DXC390 rank #1 out of 124.
Go to rankings
7.4
Good
Reviews
In comparison:
Cambridge Audio CXC rank #2 out of 124. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
9.3
Amazing
Reviews
In comparison:
Yamaha CD-S303 rank #3 out of 124. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
8.3
Great
Reviews
We don't yet have enough review information for Denon DCD-900NE
Price
Price
Expert consensus not yet generated.
The Cambridge Audio CXC CD Player is highly praised for its superior audio quality, sleek design, and durable build, making it a top choice for audiophiles and music enthusiasts. The Yamaha CD-S303 CD player offers impressive audio performance, high-quality construction, and flexible connectivity options, making it a great choice for those seeking detailed and accurate sound reproduction.
Expert consensus not yet generated.
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