In the golden age of streaming—where lossless files are tossed around like confetti and algorithms decide your next favorite song—there’s something quietly defiant about loading a disc. The Onix Zenith XST20 doesn’t chase trends or apologize for its purpose. It exists for one reason: to serve those who still believe that physical media, when done right, isn’t a relic—it’s a ritual. Born from Shanling’s decades-long engineering legacy and draped in the heritage of the Onix name, the XST20 reimagines the disc transport not as an afterthought, but as a centerpiece. What follows is a closer look at how this machine earns its place in a digital world—and why it might just make you dust off your SACD collection.

Built to Be Touched, Not Just Heard

The Zenith XST20 captivates with its top-loading mechanism, featuring a glass disc that serves as both a puck and a lid, ensuring secure disc placement and smooth operation. Its chassis, meticulously constructed from CNC-machined aluminum and adorned with gold accents, exudes a timeless elegance reminiscent of Onix’s classic aesthetic. Measuring approximately 12.6 inches in width, 9.4 inches in depth, and 2.8 inches in height, and weighing around 11.5 pounds, this transport embodies robust build quality and a commanding presence. ​

Format Flexibility for the Faithful

Demonstrating remarkable versatility, the Zenith XST20 supports a wide array of disc formats, including standard CDs, single-layer and multi-layer SACDs, and MQA-CDs. Its gapless playback capability ensures seamless transitions between tracks, preserving the integrity of live recordings and classical compositions.

Connectivity Without Compromise

Equipped with an extensive suite of digital outputs—Optical, Coaxial, BNC, AES/EBU, I2S, and USB—the Zenith XST20 offers unparalleled connectivity options:​

• I2S Output: Delivers native DSD64 playback for SACDs and PCM 44.1 kHz for CDs, providing the purest audio signal.​
• Optical, Coaxial, BNC, AES/EBU Outputs: Support DSD64 via DoP (DSD over PCM) or D2P for SACDs and PCM 44.1 kHz for CDs, ensuring compatibility with a range of DACs.​
• USB Output: Handles PCM 44.1 kHz for CDs; note that SACD playback is not supported via USB.​

Notably, the I2S output features FPGA-assisted technology with 10 selectable pinout configurations, enhancing compatibility with a diverse array of external DACs. ​

Touchscreen Simplicity, Remote Elegance

Navigating the Zenith XST20 is intuitive, thanks to its 3.4-inch touchscreen that provides easy access to settings and playback controls. For added convenience, the unit includes a premium remote control, allowing users to manage their listening experience effortlessly. ​

A Transformer Worth Transforming For

At the heart of the Zenith XST20 lies a 25VA Talema toroidal transformer, renowned for delivering stable current with minimal noise. This robust power supply contributes significantly to the transport’s optimal audio performance, ensuring a pristine listening experience.

Availability

The Onix Zenith XST20 is available in the United States through Forté Distribution, a leading distributor of high-end audio and audiophile music products. Building on the legacy of XLO Electric and Motet Distribution, Forté Distribution is committed to bringing a diverse portfolio of premium audio brands to dealers and consumers.

ONIX Zenith XST20