SMSL PL20 Review: How Good Is This CD Player/Ripper with Hi-Res Playback?

Tharbamar Review 1 months ago

Description

SMSL PL20 CD Player/Ripper
Rating: 7.6/10
Price: US$208 (Jun, 2026)
https://amzn.to/4xl0VPm
https://aoshida-audio.com/products/smsl-pl20

Sound Stage: 8
Stereo Image: 8
Highs: 8
Midrange: 8
Bass: 7
Build Quality: 8
Features: 7
Noise Control: 5 (Due To Motor Noise)
Design: 8
Price: 9

Pros: Tough Built, Good Transport/Ripper, Good Sound.
Cons: Noticeable Motor Noise.

*All ratings consider price, features, and sound quality. Product sample provided for review.

1-10 Rating System
(10 Next Level, 9 Exceptional, 8 Very Good, 7 Solid, 6 Above Average, 5 Average, 4 Below Average, 3 Flawed, 2 Bad, 1 Trash)

Music by Grace Mahya
https://amzn.to/4wFK6hM
https://ebay.us/21i3Ci

*Associated Components*
SMSL PL120 CD Player: https://amzn.to/4vE1qT5
iFi Silence Power: https://amzn.to/4kDrA3S
AST Silver Cables: https://youtu.be/MVLP_QX6IPY
Audio-Techinca ArtLink TITAN COAX: (Discontinued)
BJC Canare L-4 COAX: https://amzn.to/4uayIJ8 (Get This)
Stack Audio Auva Isolation: https://youtu.be/OtN8raFYoPY
iFi Nova AC Power Cables: https://amzn.to/447GeGP
Fanmuisc ZY-363 USB A to C Cable: https://amzn.to/47FrstM
Taihang Power: https://youtu.be/ie1NJT7im-I
Pioneer TAD S-1EX Speaker: https://youtu.be/k-Sw4qjz6wg
SMSL N100 Streamer: https://amzn.to/4n4739P
Accuphase E-4000: https://youtu.be/wg7UFZaBSLA
Muzishare X30 Integrated Amp: https://amzn.to/46CwYxX

Closest to listen my sound sample is with
Sony MDR-7506 https://amzn.to/2wAkk54 or
Yamaha HS5 Monitor Speakers: https://amzn.to/4j1FgVs

If you use these links above to purchase any items from Amazon or eBay (No Extra Cost To You), I get a small percentage which helps support my work and helps me keep going.

Video Timeline
0:00 Review
14:27 Sound Sample