For audio enthusiasts, the pursuit of great sound does not stop at just one HiFi system. Devices like computers and smartphones that can play music also have higher expectations and standards for sound quality. In response to the diverse playback devices and usage scenarios, Sony has introduced various audio solutions, among which the CAS-1 is a desktop micro HiFi audio system designed for computers and laptops. Since its launch, the CAS-1 has become a new favorite in audio enthusiast forums, positioning itself as a computer HiFi audio system. Just how “toxic” is it? Enthusiasts generally provide the following five reasons.
Reason One: Outstanding Product Hard Power
The specifications and parameters are the best embodiment of a product’s hard power and are the primary consideration for headphone enthusiasts. This Sony CAS-1 is equipped with its own S Master HX digital sound chip, supporting high-spec audio files of 24bit / 192kHz, and features DSEE HX digital sound enhancement technology, achieving Hi-Res standards, even providing good sound quality experience for lossy music files. In terms of speakers, the CAS-1 uses a 14mm soft dome tweeter, while the bass unit features a 62mm cone type carbon fiber diaphragm, and the speaker frame uses non-magnetic materials to reduce magnetic interference, ensuring good performance in both bass and treble. With such strong hard power support, the Sony CAS-1 has entered the vision of professional assessments.
Reason Two: Integrated Amplifier and Headphone Amplifier
As high-quality audio equipment becomes more popular, manufacturers are increasingly focusing on product usability, and Sony, as a leader in the industry, is actively responding to this trend. The CAS-1 integrates both amplifier and headphone amplifier circuits within the device. The amplifier section uses independently developed electrolytic capacitors and film capacitors, including the aforementioned S-Master HX. The power supply and power design are also cleverly crafted, optimizing audio quality components, providing rich high-frequency detail while delivering a very deep bass experience, resulting in a naturally grand sound field with clear imaging and accurate positioning.
In the headphone amplifier section, the circuit board is separated from the amplifier circuit and independently optimized. When the headphone amplifier is working, the amplifier power supply is cut off to avoid mutual interference. It adopts a traditional DAC+AMP audio architecture, with major components referencing the PHA-2. Because the space is larger than portable headphone amplifiers, the circuit can be more comfortably optimized, resulting in higher transparency and airiness in the overall auditory experience, as well as an increased level of resolution.
Reason Three: Unique Low Volume Mode
As a piece of equipment for enthusiasts, it should also perform well under certain special scenarios. The Sony CAS-1 clearly does not disappoint in this regard, as its low volume mode ensures good performance even at very low volume levels. Its main principle is to achieve sound quality balance through corresponding algorithmic compensation for different volumes. Therefore, even if users lower the volume, they can still hear a rich and balanced sound quality. Imagine, when the night is quiet, and family and neighbors are asleep, you suddenly feel like enjoying a few favorite tracks alone; having a Sony CAS-1 becomes particularly necessary at this moment.
Reason Four: Small Size with Great Performance
Despite its outstanding hard power, integration of amplifier and headphone amplifier, and unique low volume mode, the size of the Sony CAS-1 is extremely compact and small, perfectly illustrating the saying, “though the sparrow is small, it has all vital organs.” Both speakers measure 95x178mm, roughly the same size as popular large-screen smart phones on the market, while the main unit is only 55x178mm. The total footprint of the entire setup is even smaller than a mainstream 13-inch laptop, allowing enthusiasts to easily set up a personal Hi-Fi system on their computer desk without conflicting with the home Hi-Fi audio system. Thus, the CAS-1 is aptly named a desktop micro Hi-Fi audio system.
Reason Five: Attractive Design and User-Friendly
The appearance is the most intuitive impression a product gives, so a high-value design naturally attracts more people. The Sony CAS-1 is crafted from select Scandinavian birch wood that benefits sound quality, processed into plywood for the top, bottom, left, and right sides of the cabinet, delivering a relaxed and pleasant sound; the front and back panels are made of 12mm thick MDF (medium-density fiberboard) material, which accurately and stably fixes the speakers and terminals; the cabinet exterior is covered with solid wood veneer, exuding an elegant atmosphere. Remarkably, because it is made of solid wood, each cabinet surface has a unique wood grain. Additionally, the CAS-1 offers a simple and smooth control experience, allowing connections via Bluetooth/NFC with smartphones and tablets or through the Sony SongPal APP for operation. With its high aesthetic appeal, strong capabilities, and ease of use, the Sony CAS-1 perfectly combines trendy quality with enthusiast quality, achieving the ideal of “having both fish and bear’s paw.”
In summary, the Sony CAS-1 has a very clear positioning; it is your micro Hi-Fi solution on the desktop, with almost all functions and designs born for sound quality. With all-digital input, whether you are a loyal user of 2.0 speakers or an enthusiast of headphones, you can achieve a good experience with the CAS-1, which only requires the space of a desk. This is precisely why many professional forums and websites strongly recommend the Sony CAS-1.