Sony CAS-1 High-Resolution Desktop Audio System with Headphone Amplifier (Black)

Item # SNCAS1 (Part # CAS-1)
Discontinued
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Item Description:
  • Sony's audio system enhances your existing music
  • Offers dual amps for two music experiences
  • Provides balancing powerful and precise sound
  • Immersive soundscapes for your spaces
  • High-Resolution audio system with headphone amp

    The CAS-1 High-Resolution Audio-compatible tabletop system with built-in dual amps recreates original sound spaces through separate speakers or headphones with the richness of a live performance.
    High-Resolution audio system with headphone amp

    High Resolution Audio

    From source to speaker, Sony has brought together an array of technologies for the ultimate audio experience. For High-Resolution Audio files, the digital amp and specialized tweeters reproduce every subtlety, so you can hear each note as the artist intended.

    DSEE HX upscales your music files

    Take your audio experience beyond CD quality. DSEE HX builds on our proprietary DSEE technology, upscaling compressed audio files to a level closer to High-Resolution Audio. By restoring the subtleties of original recordings lost during the compression process, DSEE HX delivers a rich, studio-quality audio experience for all your music.

    Recreate original sound spaces on your tabletop

    The CAS-1 recreates original sound spaces from recording studio or live performance venues, giving you the live performance experience. Enjoy music playback that reveals that unfiltered sound the artists wanted you to hear.

    Dual amplifiers

    Two distinct amplification systems deliver outstanding High-Resolution Audio experiences the way you like to listen. The compact chassis houses two independent circuit boards for the speaker and headphone amps. Headphones and speakers have distinct amplification requirements due to their differing power outputs and proximity to the drivers. The full digital S-Master HX amplifier drives the separate speakers, reproducing dynamic and powerful sound despite its compact design. The headphone amp and separate high-end digital-analogue converter is a better solution for the isolated headphone listening experience, driving headphone sound powerfully yet precisely.

    Chassis design

    The CAS-1 boasts a reinforced chassis frame (outer surface and frame) and beams designed to prevent damage to the casing and circuit board and enhance sound quality. The base structure uses a combination of high-end components and sheet metal to deliver high precision. The aluminum die-cast panel provides high rigidity and low resonance, placing minimal strain on the substrate when mounted. It optimizes heat flow away from components, enhancing both sound quality and miniaturization.

    Full Digital S-Master HX amplifier

    This newly designed full digital amplifier is the product of over ten years of Sony digital amplifier technology development. Through a major overhaul of the noise shaper and power circuit, we achieved substantial noise reduction for high-purity playback and subtle information detail unique to High-Resolution Audio.

    Pulse height volume

    The CAS-1 maintains the original audio detail at lower volumes for dynamic audio even in confined spaces. Common digital amplifiers (right) shred the original music data at low volumes. Pulse height volume (left) adjusts the power supply voltage to maintain high-density sound data at low volumes. Pulse height volume reduces power supply noise (dotted red line) at low volumes, producing a cleaner sound than common digital amplifiers.

    Low Volume Mode

    Conventional compact tabletop speakers frequently lose the treble/bass balance of the original sound at lower volumes. Low Volume Mode optimizes these properties, reproducing the faithful balance of the original sound at low volumes.

    Separated Speakers

    Recording engineers position their left and right speakers to form an equilateral triangle for optimal audio monitoring. The CAS-1's near-field design lets you reproduce this layout at home for ideal stereo sound imaging.

    2.5" high-rigidity carbon fiber cone woofers

    Harder and lighter than fiberglass, high-rigidity carbon fiber cones combine with a powerful magnetic circuit to generate tight, powerful bass. The CAS-1 main unit is housed in a molded frame to lessen distortion, suppress unit vibrations, and create high-quality sound.

    Bottom side bass reflex port

    The wide flare on the bass reflex port reduces duct noise so that the bass remains tight and free of distortion, even close to the speakers.

    1/2" Soft Dome Tweeter

    The soft dome tweeters feature a wide-dispersion design specially developed for reproducing the ultra-high frequency audio in High Resolution Audio formats. Enjoy the added realism from reproducing subtle harmonics and sound textures not possible with conventional tabletop speakers.

    High-grade painted wooden enclosure

    A half-inch-thick MDF baffle board effectively stops vibrations, and birch plywood on the wrap board brings out beautiful controlled acoustic harmonic vibration. Braces reinforce the enclosure, and sound-absorbent material controls enclosure vibrations. Even the paint is specifically chosen to further suppress unwanted harmonic vibration in addition to providing a stunning gloss appearance.

    8 speaker angle

    Adjust the speakers to an 8 upward angle to ensure sound quality when the listener is seated 2.5 to 6.5 feet away. We designed the CAS-1 speakers to deliver better sound straight to your ears when tilted into optimal position, without unwanted reflection or interference.

    Speaker base & Brass spikes

    The CAS-1 audio system includes exclusive speaker accessories specially designed to avoid interference and deliver High-Resolution Audio in the near field-the area between 2.5 to 6.5 feet from the separate speakers. Install the included brass spikes to angle speakers upward an ideal 8 ° to deliver sound straight to your ears, and the included 1/4" thick steel speaker base attachments to mitigate excess reflection. These easy-to-install accessories allow you to achieve excellent acoustics in small spaces without troublesome adjustments. The CAS-1 includes everything you need to enjoy original sound space on your tabletop. Just add your favorite music to create your own soundscapes.

    D/A converter (PCM1795)

    CAS-1 uses the same 32-bit high-precision digital-to-analogue converter (DAC) used in Sony's acclaimed HAP-Z1ES High-Resolution Audio player. This DAC extracts High-Resolution Audio detailed sound field information from sound sources in its entirety, producing fuller, richer sound that recreates the original space.

    Volume control (NJW1194)

    For volume control, CAS-1 uses electronic volume (NJW1194 ) with high sound quality. NJW1194 minimizes noise and distortion at low volumes for less deterioration of sound quality. Enjoy high-quality sound faithful to the original sound space, without unwanted distortion.

    Headphone amplifier (TA6120A)

    The CAS-1 uses the same excellent headphone amplifier IC used in the high-precision Sony PHA-2 Portable High-Resolution Audio DAC/Headphone Amplifier to drive headphone sound powerfully and precisely. Boasting excellent drive compared to regular operational amplifiers (op-amp), this headphone amplifier can even drive high-impedance headphones to effectively reproduce high-quality sound.

    Toggle outputs on and off with a relay

    No expense was spared in the quest for a pure audio experience on the CAS-1. Instead of a semiconductor switch, we implemented an output toggle circuit that uses a relay with little contact resistance and good sound.

    Ideal pattern design with four-layer circuit board

    The CAS-1 main unit houses a four-layer circuit board that allows for ideal routings for earth and power supply patterns. Component layout is designed with a beautifully symmetrical pattern based on established high-end models for cleaner sound with less noise.

    Gain toggle switch

    Enjoy the best possible sound using your favorite headphones with adjustable gain control. Gain on headphones amplifiers is the maximum amount the amplifier can increase a signal. The CAS-1 features a dedicated headphone gain toggle switch to allow you to match impedance to your headphone type, enhancing the listening experience for headphones of varying impedance.

    Robust headphone jack

    The front side of the CAS-1 features a robust 1/8" mini plug headphone port made from high-quality metal parts. We use quality metal parts to ensure that your headphone jack fits snugly and securely each and every time. This stable connection prevents distortion and delivers uncompromising sound quality. The universal 1/8" mini plug size ensures wide compatibility so you can use the same headphones at home that you use with your Walkman® or smartphone.

    High quality wireless streaming

    LDAC is a new audio technology from Sony that lets you enjoy high-quality wireless audio via Bluetooth®. With triple the data transmitted, LDAC provides an enhanced wireless listening experience for all your music.

    One-touch listening to play instant music

    NFC (Near Field Communication) technology removes the need for wired connections and complex setup sequences. Simply touch your NFC-enabled smartphone or other device* to the on-body N-mark and start your music. No NFC? No problem. You can also pair the devices manually in Bluetooth® settings.
    *See compatible devices.

    USB-B and USB-A

    Connect your Walkman® or PC to the rear USB-B terminal to play high-resolution sound sources. Connect Walkman® or USB storage devices to the front USB-A terminal to play high-resolution music using the SongPal app or the included remote control. You can also charge your iPhone or other mobile devices from here.

    Unite your music with SongPal

    Download SongPal for your smartphone or tablet and take control of your music collection. Simply connect via Bluetooth® and USB. Play music and view track information on a Walkman® or USB mass storage device connected to the USB-A terminal. Also use the app to customize sound settings for great, balanced audio.

    Overall:

    (16 reviews)

    Read More Reviews

    The CAS1 High-Resolution Audio system accurately recreates original sound spaces through stereo speakers or headphones.

    PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS

    • Immersive soundscapes for your spaces
    • Hi-Res Audio: the way the artists truly intended
    • Dual amps for two music experiences
    • Near-field listening
    • Headphone listening
    • Place yourself center stage
    • Enhancing your existing music
    • More stunning realism than you ever heard
    • Balancing powerful and precise sound
    • Easily achieve the best listening position
    • Powerful, extended bass
    • Well-balanced sound output
    • Uncompromised richness at any volume

    SPECIAL FEATURES

    Immersive soundscapes for your spaces
    The CAS1 High-Resolution Audio system with built-in dual amplifiers accurately recreates original sound spaces through stereo speakers or headphones for immersive experiences.

    Hi-Res Audio: The Way The Artists Truly Intended
    Enjoy the subtlest nuances of studio-quality sound in higher-than-CD quality with High-Resolution Audio. Passion for music unites every component from signal to speaker, so it feels like the artist is performing right in front of you.

    Dual amps for two music experiences
    Independent amplification systems deliver outstanding High-Resolution Audio experiences for the distinct amplification requirements of headphones and speakers.

    Near-field listening
    Experience especially rich sound spaces, accurately recreated within 75 to 200 cm of the separate speakers.

    Headphone listening
    Independent high-quality DAC and headphone amp deliver High-Resolution Audio headphone listening.

    Place yourself center stage
    Experience your music with live performance richness through stereophonic sound reproduction that recreates the original sound space. Separate speakers distinctively create sound and improve directionality for immersive listening experiences, even in small spaces.

    Enhancing your existing music
    DSEE HX upscales existing sound sources to near high resolution sound quality, making you feel as if you are really there at the recording studio or concert.

    More stunning realism than you ever heard
    S-Master HX full digital amp technology, uniquely developed for High-Resolution Audio, reduces distortion and noise across a wide range of frequencies for rich, full-bodied sound.

    Balancing powerful and precise sound
    An independent headphone amp and high-end digital-analogue conversion (DAC) drive headphone sound.

    Easily achieve the best listening position
    Easily position speakers for best listening point. Place separate speakers 75-200 cm away for optimal listening position. Included brass spikes let you adjust the speaker angle, and included speaker bases provide stable acoustics on any surface.

    Powerful, extended bass
    The customized bass reflex port allows the compact speakers to reproduce deep, satisfying bass.

    Well-balanced sound output
    Brass spikes elevate speakers to dampen high frequencies and fix woofer-tweeter route discrepancy.

    Uncompromised richness at any volume
    Technologies like Pulse Height Volume and Low Volume Mode ensure dynamic audio response even where other digital amplifiers suffer, at low volumes.

    Enjoy higher quality listening on various headphone types
    A high grade amplifier drives the sound for both in-ear and over ear headphones. CAS1's dedicated headphone amp and separate high-end DAC adjusts output for more isolated headphone listening experiences. Use the dedicated headphone gain toggle switch to match impedance to headphone type to enhance the listening experience for headphones of varying impedance.

    Gain toggle switch
    Adjustable gain lets you use your favorite headphones. Use HI/LOW to match impedance to headphone type.

    Robust headphone jack
    Quality metal parts for stable connections and less distortion. Mini plug socket for wide compatibility.

    Easy connections for wireless streaming
    Wirelessly connect mobile devices to the separate speakers for convenience and improved sound. Stream your music with detail and clarity using Bluetooth and high-quality LDAC audio codecs.

    High quality wireless audio streaming
    LDAC is a new audio technology from Sony that allows you to enjoy high quality wireless audio via Bluetooth. Transmitting up to three times more data, LDAC produces an enhanced wireless listening experience for all your music.

    PRODUCT FEATURES

    Immersive soundscapes for your spaces
    Hi-Res Audio: the way the artists truly intended
    Dual amps for two music experiences
    Near-field listening
    Headphone listening
    Place yourself center stage
    Enhancing your existing music
    More stunning realism than you ever heard
    Balancing powerful and precise sound
    Easily achieve the best listening position
    Powerful, extended bass
    Well-balanced sound output
    Uncompromised richness at any volume

    SPECIFICATIONS

    Amplifier/Receiver Features
    Amplifier Type: S-Master HX
    Frequency Characteristics: 10Hz - 40kHz (+0dB,-3dB) (5ohm,USB-B input)

    Application
    Android Application: SongPal
    PC Application: MediaGo / Hi-Res Audio Player

    Bluetooth Spec
    Bluetooth Technology: Version 3.0
    Effective Range: 10m
    Frequency Range: 2.4 GHz band (2.4000 GHz - 2.4835 GHz)
    Interface: A2DP/AVRCP
    Power Output: Power Class 2
    Supported Audio Format(s): SBC/AAC/LDAC
    iAP over Bluetooth: Yes

    Inputs and Outputs
    USB A Terminal: 1 (Front)
    USB B Terminal: 1 (Rear)
    Headphone Output(s): Stereo Mini
    Output(s): Speaker: Screw Type

    NFC
    Bluetooth connection: Yes

    Output Power
    RMS(Root Mean Square): 20 W + 20 W (5 ohms, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, THD 1%)

    Power
    Output Power: Headphone (1%, 1KHz, 32ohm): 180mW+180mW
    AC Plug Type: Brade
    AC Power Adaptor: Yes
    Auto Power OFF: Yes
    Bluetooth Standby: Yes
    Power Type: DC19.5V
    Power Voltage: AC 100V-240V, 50/60Hz
    Power consumption(Bluetooth standby mode): Less than 2W
    Power consumption(On Operation) AC: 29W
    Power consumption(Standby mode): Less than 0.5W
    USB Power port for smartphone: Yes

    Sound
    Volume Control: Yes (Low volume mode)

    Speaker
    Diameter of Speaker Unit(Tweeter): 14 mm, soft dome type
    Diameter of Speaker Unit(Woofer): 62mm, cone type
    Speaker Type: 2 way, 2 drivers speaker system , Bass reflex

    USB Features
    Play (Mass Storage Class): Yes

    USB Type A
    USB Memory: Yes (FAT / FAT32 / exFAT file system)

    USB-A
    AAC: Yes
    AIFF: 192/176.4/96/88.2/48/44.1 kHz 24/16bit
    ALAC: 192/176.4/96/88.2/48/44.1 kHz 24/16bit
    DSD(DSF/DSDIFF): 2.8MHz (* LPCM convert)
    FLAC: 192/176.4/96/88.2/48/44.1 kHz 24/16bit
    MP3: Yes
    WAV: 192/176.4/96/88.2/48/44.1 kHz 24/16bit
    WMA: Yes

    KEY DETAILS

    Brand: Sony
    Color: Black
    Model: CAS-1

    WEIGHT & DIMENSIONS

    Weight Main unit: 1.3 kg
    Weight Speaker Unit: 1.5 kg
    Dimensions Main unit (WxHxD): 55 x 178 x 210 mm
    Dimensions Speaker Unit: 95 x 178 x 172 mm

    Sony CAS-1 High-Resolution Desktop Audio System with Headphone Amplifier
    Remote Control (RMT-AA140UB / RMT-AA140UW)
    Batteries for Remote control (Litium coin battery CR2032)
    AC Power Adaptor (ACDP-085E03)
    AC Power Cord
    Speaker Cable (1.2m x 2 pcs)
    USB Cable
    Speaker Base
    Stand
    Spike
    User Registration Card
    Warranty Card

    Review Snapshot

    by PowerReviews

    4.7

    100%
    of respondents would recommend this to a friend

    Ratings Distribution

    Reviewed by 7 customers

    Sleek and elegant design

    Submitted 6 years ago

    By Cosm280

    From Denver

    Verified Buyer

    Reviewed at

    Sony Global - BV

    These speakers exude quality and have a silky smooth sound for the size. The near field audio listening is excellent. When you distance yourself from the speakers the sound isn't quite as rich and the bass, imaging, and immersion takes a hit but that's not what the speakers are for. Granted the sound still has a nice quality to it from a distance and can easily fill up a smaller room with some great sound. The headphone amp is great as well. It easily powered some 250ohm headphones that I own on high gain and the sound is excellent. Its a really cool unit and I love that Sony put the time in to design such a peculiar product for people that are serious about desktop/headphone audio!

    Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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    Acceptable

    Submitted 7 years ago

    By Hazim20

    From Kuala Lumpur

    Verified Buyer

    Reviewed at

    Sony Global - BV

    Please refer to my previous comments send before Kind regards Hazim

    Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

    Was this review helpful to you?

    Audio Bliss!!

    Submitted 7 years ago

    By Nodrums

    From The Beach

    Verified Buyer

    Reviewed at

    Sony Global - BV

    So I have been searching for audio bliss since I heard KLH and Fisher for the first time when they were at the top of their game way back when. Add on top of this being an active but part time muscian for 40 years I have become spoiled by the live sounds of instruments. So audio bliss to me is being entertain by the music and the sounds created to make my ears dance. So after a year of having this system I can now say that I am absolutly delighted of how this system performs. Close my eyes and the spealers disappear with a terific sound stage. The best.... it doesnt need to be Hi Res music to sound great. Cons --Wish it had an optical or coaxial input so I can input other media Hint--Positioning of speakers is key to performance. Read the manual!! LDAC Rules!!

    Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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    Greatest

    Submitted 7 years ago

    By hazaredfy

    From Kuala Lumpur, ms

    Verified Buyer

    Reviewed at

    Sony Global - BV

    I bought a month ago and I am so happy to get full feature & content.

    Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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    Pure Bliss

    Submitted 8 years ago

    By JSR79

    From Tulsa, OK, United States

    Verified Buyer

    Reviewed at

    Sony Global - BV

    The Sony CAS-1 is pure bliss to listen to. This is, hands down, the best desktop system that I have heard in its class. I am hearing my music like I have not heard it before and it is phenomenal. The sound is well balanced and very detailed. I love that it is a no-frills system (that is a compliment), just you and your music in one simple package. The system is aesthetically pleasing as well. Way to go Sony!

    Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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    Sony CAS-1

    Submitted 9 years ago

    By Jiang

    From Singapore

    Verified Buyer

    Reviewed at

    Sony Global - BV

    Already bought more than 1 week and quite satisfy with sound quality so far

    Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend to a friend

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    Finally, (almost) Perfect Desktop Audio System

    Submitted 9 years ago

    By torokun

    From undisclosed

    Verified Buyer

    Reviewed at

    Sony Global - BV

    It's been extremely hard to find a compact desktop stereo system with excellent audio quality that combines great headphone output as well. This area has been left to pretty much DIY audiophiles' area. I think some people at Sony are finally realizing the magic they used to carry with their fan base to really craft one of a kind product that ditches all competition in the areas of quality from design, quality to specs. *Only downside is that I can not seem to connect it to my PC via USB (B port). And I am not so sure if it has to do with Sony or MS on this one. Will have to try with Mac to see if it works better.

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