SMSL PL20 Review: A Modern CD Player With One Big Catch

The SMSL PL20 is a compact desktop CD player that also rips CDs directly to USB, plays hi-res files, and adds Bluetooth connectivity. In this quick review, I cover what it does well, where it falls short, and how it performs in real listening. For listening impressions, I use the PL20 as a source feeding the HIFIMAN Prelude and listen with Fosi i5 planar headphones, focusing on Supernatural by Carlos Santana and the track “Love of My Life.” This review is not sponsored. If you purchase through links in the description, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Other affiliate links may also be used. All opinions are my own. ✅The SMSL PL20 https://amzn.to/3P6essl (Amazon) ✅Official Store: https://www.aoshida-audio.com/product... Coupon Code: DTHIFI-PL20 Discount: 5% As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases* My Amazon Affiliate Link http://amzn.to/2sfgypU Amazon Store https://www.amazon.com/shop/frugaltech ✅ Check out Amazon Music HGD https://amzn.to/3G32V5D Review Gear for Desktop HIFI ✅ Topping D70 Pro Sabre Dac https://amzn.to/4dziMJ7 ✅ SMSL DO400 Dac and Headphone Amp ✅ HIFIMAN Arya Organic Headphones https://amzn.to/46Uw7dD ✅ KEF Q150 https://amzn.to/4cvNYGI ✅ Wiim Ultra https://amzn.to/4jj9Vw7 ✅ XDuoo TA20 Plus Tube Amp https://amzn.to/43sWsvT ✅ SMSL PL100 https://amzn.to/4jjxSnj ✅ Fosi ZPE3 https://amzn.to/4fF5njJ ✅ HIFIMAN HE1000 https://amzn.to/4kCzsBy ✅ Fosi ZA3 Mono Blocks https://amzn.to/3FrDGx0 ✅ HIFIMAN EF400 Dac and Headphone Amp. https://amzn.to/4keYDdV ✅ HIFIMAN EF600 Dac and Headphone Amp ✅ Headphone Stand https://amzn.to/3Sq9aXo Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:43 Overview of the PL20 01:35 Major Features 02:29 Limitations 03:05 Connectivity and Power 03:24 Listening Impressions 05:21 Pro's and Cons 05:51 Wrap Up