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ARC Ref CD-8 compared to CD-6 and/or Ref CD-9

Looking for comments from members who might have compared the ARC Ref CD-8 to the newly minted CD-6 and/or Ref CD-9, principally focusing on the redbook CDP function.

Based on a conversation with ARC, I understand that the redbook CD playback circuitry in the 3 models is similar, but not exact. Principal differences are upgraded coupling caps and the DAC configuration.

The Ref CD-8 used Burr Brown PCM 1792 chips configured in stereo mode. By contrast, the CD-6 and Ref CD-9 use the BB PCM 1792A, but configured in quad mono mode.

Also, the CD-6 and Ref CD-9 upsample and have fast/slow filter options. The Ref CD-8 does not offer these options.

Obviously, techno-babble aside, what counts most is how the CDPs sound. ARC says the CD-6 and Ref CD-9 have better dynamics and bandwidth, and lower distortion than the Ref CD-8. Not surprisingly, the new issues sound better.

So ... has anyone had a chance to road test the new players. Even better, compare them to the Ref CD-8. If they newest offerings are markedly better, maybe I should put on the bucket list. Oh ... mainly interested in the redbook functionality.

Thanks

BIF
bifwynne

Showing 8 responses by jafant

jafant's avatar
jafant
20,114 posts
 
solobone22

No- I have not had an opportunity to audition the CD6. I believe that there is a CD6 SE model?  My last CD9 demo was in 2015. It is a killer player especially on the used market.

Happy Listening!
jafant's avatar
jafant
20,114 posts
 
Thanks! for sharing- Frank.
Happy Listening!
jafant's avatar
jafant
20,114 posts
 
BIF-

how did the CD7 sound w/ Rock, Jazz and Pop music?
Will you be stepping up to the CD9? Or perhaps the new CD6 anytime soon? Keep me posted.
jafant's avatar
jafant
20,114 posts
 
BIF-

I would be interested in the new CD6 as well.

I have had the pleasure of auditioning the CD5, CD7 and CD9.
There is a big jump between the CD5 & CD7, in both price and sound.
The CD9 is hot at this juncture, because it (and many other spinners in this price class) has a killer DAC (for server/streamer fans).

Keep me posted.
jafant's avatar
jafant
20,114 posts
 
Hello BIF,

sure, at more than twice the price, the CD9 will sound better than the CD5. If you do not need a killer DAC, go for a CD5 or CD7- that is the better money spent.

I would be interested in the newer CD6- it is priced way too high at $8K retail. If I were ARC, I would have set the price at $4995 = better value, IMO.
jafant's avatar
jafant
20,114 posts
 
BIF-

the CD5 is a killer player, no frills, best money spent.
The CD9 is more than 2x the price, will sound a bit better (my ears) abd has the killer DAC (really what one pays).

ARC could have done better on the new CD6 price-wise as it is over priced at suggested $8K retail?
jafant's avatar
jafant
20,114 posts
 
Yes BIF. In the CD9 one is paying for a DAC (first) and CD transport (second). Nothing wrong w/ this, as many competitors are building the very same.

If you like tubes, buy a CD7 used and spend the leftover $$$$ elsewhere.
jafant's avatar
jafant
20,114 posts
 
Many Thanks! BIF.

I, too, like gold CDs and SACDs. I have never had the opportunity to demo a CD8? I would like to someday. The ARC dealer network always updates to the latest + greatest, example the CD9.

Keep me posted on which way you go.
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