Even after three decades of the compact disc the RCD-12 demonstrates that there is still more performance to be found from CD players. In common with its partners in the 12 Series, digital to analogue conversion is handled by the Wolfson WM8740 DAC chip. The WM8740 is more usually found in CD players at the very top of high-end audio and if you are ever intrigued to know just how your favourite CDs would sound on the world’s finest players, the RCD-12 will get you to within a hair’s-breadth.

In common with other 12 Series products, the RCD-12 can be controlled through either its front panel buttons and display, via its remote control handset, or via Rotel Link to an RT-12 and the Rotel Remote app for iPhone and iPad.