Overview

The Onkyo C-705X is a vintage CD player from Onkyo’s INTEC series, featuring a 1-bit D/A converter with 8x oversampling and Cross Interleave Reed Solomon error correction. Manufactured with dimensions of 205 x 91 x 275mm and weighing 2.2kg, the silver-finished unit provides basic CD playbook functionality including CD-R/RW compatibility, optical digital output, and remote control support. As a discontinued model now primarily available in the used market, it represents conventional mid-1990s CD player technology without significant technical innovations.

Scientific Validity

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Manufacturer specifications indicate good performance against audibility thresholds [1][2]. THD of 0.005% at 1kHz achieves transparent levels (≤0.01%), while frequency response of 5Hz-20kHz fully covers the ideal 20Hz-20kHz range. S/N ratio shows conflicting values between sources (85dB per hifi-wiki vs 90dB per ManualsLib) and dynamic range at 96dB position between problematic (80dB/90dB) and transparent (105dB) thresholds. Channel separation at 85dB significantly exceeds optimal -70dB levels. The 1-bit D/A converter represents basic technology for its era. No credible third-party measurements were found despite comprehensive search, requiring reliance on manufacturer specifications which may not reflect actual measured performance. Conservative evaluation applies with 0.1 adjustment toward 0.5 due to absence of independent verification, placing key metrics near transparent performance levels.

Technology Level

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The C-705X employs conventional CD technology without proprietary innovations. The 1-bit D/A converter with 8x oversampling represented standard approaches during its manufacturing period but are now outdated compared to modern multi-bit DACs with higher resolution capabilities. Cross Interleave Reed Solomon error correction and optical non-contact reading constitute standard CD implementation rather than technological advancement. The analog-only design lacks digital integration, software processing, or modern conveniences found in contemporary products. No evidence exists of in-house patent technology or technical differentiation that other manufacturers would desire to adopt.

Cost-Performance

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Current used market pricing ranges 85-310 USD, with the C-705X available exclusively in the used market as a discontinued product. Comparison with equivalent-or-better current products reveals Cambridge Audio AXC35 (449 USD) and Yamaha CD-S303 (449.95 USD) providing superior specifications including better DACs, enhanced S/N ratios, wider frequency response, and additional features like USB input and multiple format support [3][4]. Equipped with CD playback functionality and optical digital output, these products provide equivalent-or-better performance with THD ≤0.003%, S/N ratio ≥100dB, and frequency response 20Hz-20kHz ±0.5dB. The Cambridge Audio AXC35 serves as the cheapest equivalent-or-better option at 449 USD. Using conservative used market pricing of 85 USD for the C-705X: CP = 85 USD ÷ 449 USD = 0.19.

Reliability & Support

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Investigation reveals significant reliability concerns for Onkyo products, with specific documented customer complaints including a CD player that “SKIPS SKIPS SKIPS” after one year of use, with customer service providing “the run around” to avoid warranty coverage [5]. Additional reports indicate customer service providing inadequate warranty support and attempts to avoid coverage obligations, with customers required to pay shipping costs for warranty repairs. As a vintage discontinued product, parts availability remains limited and authorized service centers may lack necessary components for repairs. Onkyo’s known issues include defective network chips in receivers manufactured 2009-2012 and DSP chip failures. Onkyo’s standard 1-year warranty period for CD players combined with documented service issues contributes to low reliability assessment.

Rationality of Design Philosophy

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The C-705X represents straightforward, conventional CD player design without scientific irrationality but also without innovation toward transparent performance levels. Cost structure appears reasonable for basic functionality without excessive spending on non-functional elements. However, the 1-bit DAC represents an older, less optimal approach compared to modern multi-bit designs that achieve better measured performance. The design lacks modern digital integration, advanced format support, or software-based improvements that contemporary products utilize for enhanced functionality and cost reduction. As vintage technology, it has been superseded by better-performing modern alternatives that achieve superior specifications at competitive pricing in current markets.

Advice

The Onkyo C-705X serves primarily as an entry-level option for users specifically seeking vintage Onkyo equipment or basic CD playback at minimal cost. Its competitive used market pricing makes it accessible for budget-conscious users requiring simple CD functionality. However, documented reliability issues including skipping problems and poor customer service support present significant risks. Modern alternatives like Cambridge Audio AXC35 or Yamaha CD-S303, while more expensive, provide superior measured performance, better reliability, current warranty support, and additional features. Unless specifically attracted to vintage Onkyo aesthetics or extremely budget-constrained, contemporary CD players offer better long-term value and performance.

References

[1] ManualsLib, Onkyo C-705X Specifications, https://www.manualslib.com/manual/644729/Onkyo-C-705x.html?page=24, accessed 2025-09-26, manufacturer specifications including 0.005% THD, 90dB S/N ratio, 96dB dynamic range [2] HiFi-Wiki, Onkyo C-705 X, https://hifi-wiki.com/index.php/Onkyo_C-705_X, accessed 2025-09-26, specifications including 85dB S/N ratio, 0.005% THD [3] Cambridge Audio, AXC35 CD Player, https://www.cambridgeaudio.com/row/en/products/hi-fi/ax/axc35, accessed 2025-09-26, official product page [4] Yamaha, CD-S303 CD Player, https://usa.yamaha.com/products/audio_visual/hifi_components/cd-s303/index.html, accessed 2025-09-26, official product page, current price 449.95 USD [5] Trustpilot, Onkyo Customer Service Reviews, https://www.trustpilot.com/review/www.onkyo.com, accessed 2025-09-26, customer reports of warranty service problems and product issues

(2025.9.27)