AR CD3, CD5, or CD7?



I've been getting back into 2-channel after some time away. I recently purchased an AR 300.2 amp, AR LS17 pre, and Magnepan 3.6 speakers. I have an older cd player (Rotel 971) that I would like to replace. I would also like to keep to the AR product line. Any thoughts of whether I should go with the CD3, 5, or 7? The 8 is a bit out of my price range. I know auditioning is the best way to go, but the only player dealers have in my area is the CD7.
silver911

Showing 1 response by zargon

I have been using the CD3 MKII in an all ARC system for several years and am quite well satisfied. While my listening comparisons to the upper level ARC players reveals they have improved, nothing has yet convinced me to spend the extra $.

The CD3 MKII is very detailed and quite accurate across the board and is intimately listenable for hours on end. I play it and my TT about equally, and find some material better on one and other material better on the other. It is best to listen if possible to both in your system, however, we all know that is sometimes difficult or impossible.