Bluebird Music is the North American distributor of high-end audio products from around the World. One of their source companies is Germany’s AVM (Audio Video Manufakur). The latest AVM product being made available for the U.S. and Canada through Bluebird Music is the CS 2.3 All-in-One Streaming Receiver.
The CS 2.3 comes packed with a lot of features and connectivity, along with a built-in two-channel amplifier. All you need to complete your music listening setup is access to the internet, a turntable, and a good set of speakers.
The AVM CS 2.3 Feature Package
Here is what you get with the AVM CS 2.3
CD Player: A TEAC slot-loading Pure CD Drive is included. To ensure quiet, smooth playback, the drive is isolated on the chassis to prevent vibration. The CD player is compatible with standard Redbook CD and CD-R discs.
Music Streamer: AVM’s X-Stream Engine includes support for Spotify Connect, Tidal, Qobuz, UPnP, and Webradio sources. It is compatible with any Hi-res music streaming format including DSD. According to AVM, via Bluebird music, the CS 2.3 can be updated to be compatible with new digital formats. In addition to Hi-res digital audio, the CS 2.3 also supports Bluetooth 4.2 (AVRCP 1.5, AD2P) and Apple AirPlay 2.
Roon: The AVM CS 2.3 is Roon Ready which is a big help in organizing your music library.
Digital Inputs: In addition to accessing digital music from the internet, digital optical and digital coaxial inputs are provided, as well as a USB port. The CS 2.3 also includes an HDMI input with ARC support.
- Tip: When using HDMI-ARC, you must set the TV’s audio output to PCM, Dolby and DTS signals are not compatible with the CS 2.3.
DAC (Digital to Analog Converter): All digital signals are processed by the built-in upsampling ESS Sabre DAC (processing chip model not specified).
Phono Preamp: A built-in phono preamp is provided that accommodates both moving magnet and moving coil cartridges.
Analog Audio: There are two RCA-type analog audio inputs as well as a pre-out connection if you want to connect the CS 2.3 to an external amplifier or stereo/home theater receiver. There is also a 3.5mm headphone jack on the front panel.
Additional Connectivity: Ethernet and Wi-Fi.
Multi-room Audio: The CS 2.3 can be used with a whole-house system, with AVM’s Multiroom and Party Sync features (available via the RC X app discussed below).
Amplification: AVM states that the onboard two-channel amplifier can output up to 140 watts per channel (4 ohms). Tone and balance controls provide additional fine-tuning.
Control: Front panel controls are provided, as well as access to AVM’s RC X app for iOS or Android. However, the full-function RC 9 remote control that includes a full-color display is optional.
- Note: According to AVM the RC 9 remote control has been discontinued. A successor is forthcoming.
Front Panel Display: Graphic Display that is also dimmable.
Finish: The AVM CS 2.3 is available in silver or black.
Price: $6,295.00 (U.S.) – $7,495.00 (Canadian) – Available through the Bluebird Music Dealer Network
Download the User Guide (English PDF)
If the AVM CS 2.3 is a little beyond your budget, check out our list of Best Digital Music Streamers.
