Beogram CD X Player Bang & Olufsen

Key Specifications

• Type: Top-loading CD player with motorised dust cover

• Mechanism/Base: Philips CD104 / CDM series transport (Belgium-made)

• DAC & Processing: Dual 14-bit DAC, 4× oversampling (176.4 kHz)

• Filters: Analogue + digital filtering

• Controls: Capacitive “Sensi-Touch” glass panel

• Display: Track indicators, elapsed time, index, LED track bar

• Programming: Up to 40 tracks, random access, repeat (up to 4×)

• Search: Variable-speed forward/backward scanning

• Outputs: Fixed RCA (phono) line output

• Design: Full glass control surface, integrated lighting

• Era: Mid-1980s (introduced before CDX-2 in 1987)

Review (Concise & Positive)

The Beogram CDX combines iconic Scandinavian design with a proven Philips digital platform, resulting in a player that is both visually striking and technically reliable. The motorised lid, illuminated touch panel, and top-loading layout create a highly distinctive user experience, while the solid CDM transport ensures long-term mechanical stability. Internally, the well-implemented 4× oversampling DAC delivers low noise, good channel separation, and consistent disc reading, even with lightly damaged CDs.

Sonically, the CDX presents an open, spacious, and engaging soundstage with strong stereo focus and excellent midrange clarity. Vocals and acoustic instruments are reproduced with realism, while imaging and depth remain standout strengths. Bass is warm and full, complementing classic B&O systems, and treble remains detailed without excessive sharpness. Overall, the CDX stands out as a design-led yet serious hi-fi CD player, balancing aesthetics, usability, and musical performance at a high level for its era.