Simon Lucas

The Fosi Audio Merak is a compact, affordable CD player designed for home systems or headphone listening rather than true portable use, since it requires mains power or a power bank. It offers analog and optical digital outputs, USB playback and lossless CD ripping to 16-bit/44.1kHz WAV files. Testing found an energetic, detailed and well-focused presentation with articulate midrange, though the treble can be excitable and the bass lacks impact. Its main drawbacks are the convoluted physical controls and the mismatch between its small size and limited portability. It is recommended for listeners seeking an inexpensive CD source or ripping device, but not for users prioritizing portability or powerful bass.