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ARC CD-2, dac or player upgrade?

I've had an ARC CD-2 for years and although it is a very nice player, I was wondering whether an inexpensive newer dac or even a newer player altogether would be an improvement. Is there anything out there for <<$1000 new or used that would beat the ARC player? I would even consider a mod at this point. Thanks for your input.
jc4659

Showing 1 response by audphile1

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audphile1
5,443 posts
 
are you running CD2 balanced into your preamp? ARC usually sounds best balanced. I compared it directly with the Bel Canto DAC2 and even single-ended I preffered ARC. It layers the soundstage better and overall was more refined. The CD3MkII is an upgrade though if you want more clarity, better definition.

And I highly doubt that for less than $1k you will make any improvement. It will be at best a step sideways and if that will be the case, consider it an achievement.
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