AVM Evolution CS 5.3 Streaming CD Receiver

For the audiophile who craves both immense power and the soulful glow of tubes, AVM presents the EVOLUTION CS 5.3. This is the ultimate expression of the all-in-one concept, fusing a massively powerful 350-watt solid-state amplifier with a captivating, AVM-designed tube line stage. The result is a sonic masterpiece that delivers the best of both worlds: the iron-fisted control and precision of a transistor powerhouse, blended with the harmonic richness, warmth, and holographic soundstage that only tubes can provide. With the limitless AVM X-STREAM Engine®, a reference-level DAC, and every conceivable input, the CS 5.3 is the complete, uncompromising heart of a truly high-end system.

Key Features

• AVM Tube Line Stage: A specially designed preamplifier stage featuring AVM's custom-made tubes delivers exceptional warmth, rich tonal colors, and a holographic soundstage.
• See the Glow: A tinted glass window integrated into the top cover provides a beautiful view of the glowing tube stages during operation.
• Massive Power Output: A colossal 2 x 350 Watt solid-state amplifier stage drives any loudspeaker with effortless control and authority.
• AVM X-STREAM Engine®: Delivers flawless Hi-Res streaming up to 384/32 & DSD256, all controllable via the RC X App.
• Total Streaming Connectivity: ROON Ready and prepared for Spotify Connect, Qobuz, Tidal Connect, and internet radio.
• Reference-Grade DAC: A selected Double-Quad DAC configuration (4 DACs per channel) based on the ESS 9028PRO for stunningly accurate conversion.
• Advanced MM/MC Phono Stage: A high-performance phono input with extensive, granular customization for gain and loading, all controllable via the RC X App.
• Complete Analog & Digital Hub: Features 4 analog inputs (1 XLR, 3 RCA), 2 digital inputs (coax, optical), and an HDMI (ARC) input.
• Dual Speaker Outputs: Provides Speaker A & B outputs for driving two separate pairs of speakers.
• Dedicated Headphone Amplifier: A dedicated, high-quality headphone amp accessible from the front panel for personal listening sessions.
• Premium German Build: Meticulously handmade in Germany, housed in a screwless, brushed aluminum chassis with a minimalist design.

The Magic of Tubes

The heart and soul of the CS 5.3 is its magnificent Tube Line Stage. This preamplifier section, built around vacuum tubes manufactured exclusively for AVM, was engineered to unfold the alluring sonic charm that audiophiles cherish. It imbues the sound with a palpable sense of space, harmonic richness, and a natural, three-dimensional quality that is simply intoxicating. Before the signal is sent to the powerhouse solid-state amplifier, it is graced with this touch of tube magic. Thanks to AVM’s proprietary circuit technology, the tubes are guaranteed an impressively long lifespan of approximately 20,000 hours, ensuring you can enjoy their magical performance for years to come.

A Powerhouse Without Peer

While the preamp stage provides the soul, the amplifier provides the muscle. At the heart of the CS 5.3 is an astonishingly powerful solid-state amplifier section, delivering a massive 350 watts per channel. This immense reserve of power is about absolute control. You will hear it in the iron-fisted grip it has over the bass drivers, the explosive, unrestrained dynamics of a full orchestra, and the crystal-clear vocal articulation at any listening level. This is power that serves the music, ensuring that even the most demanding loudspeakers perform at their absolute peak without strain or compression.

The Digital Brain, The Analog Soul

The CS 5.3 is a master of both the digital and analog domains. Its digital heart is the powerful AVM X-STREAM Engine® paired with a reference-level Double-Quad DAC, a sophisticated design that uses four digital-to-analog converters per channel to render high-resolution files with breathtaking accuracy. Its analog soul is revealed not only in the tube stage but also in its extensive connectivity, headlined by a truly sensational MM/MC phono stage. In a stroke of genius, all complex settings for cartridge loading can be adjusted on-the-fly from your chair using the RC X app, making it a vinyl lover’s dream.

Meticulous German Craftsmanship

The CS 5.3 is a physical testament to AVM's "Reduce to the Max" philosophy, with an added touch of theatre. Every unit is assembled entirely by hand in AVM’s factory in Malsch, Germany. The housing is a work of art—a precision-milled, screwless aluminum enclosure that exudes minimalist elegance. The defining visual feature is the tinted glass window in the top cover, offering a captivating view of the glowing tubes within. This is not just an audio component; it is a beautifully crafted instrument designed to provide decades of visual and musical enjoyment.

The Listening Room Difference

When you shop with The Listening Room, you get more than just gear. As a third-generation, family-run business with a passion for music and decades of experience, we offer personalized service that goes far beyond the sale. Call, text, or email, and you’ll get a real human who knows this equipment inside and out. From in-store demos to curated home system design and wide-radius delivery, we’re here to help you get the absolute best out of your purchase.

Specifications

Power Amp

⚠ ATTENTION: When using the A and B speaker outputs simultaneously, the speaker impedance for each speaker must not fall below 8 ohms.

Pre Amp (Analog)

Headphone Amp

Pre Amp (Phono)

CD Player

Network

Streaming

Bluetooth

USB Input (Rear Panel)

⚠ ATTENTION: The USB input is only intended for use of hard drives and USB sticks!

Digital Inputs (S/P-DIF / Coaxial)

ℹ NOTE: When using the digital inputs, the cable length of the digital cables should not exceed three meters.

Digital Outputs (S/P-DIF / Coaxial)

ℹ NOTE: When using the digital outputs, the cable length of the digital cables should not exceed three meters.

Control

ℹ NOTE: To avoid high current spikes, the second trigger out is switched with a delay to the first trigger out.

Power Consumption

Misc