Audio Research CD-7 versus CD3-mkII

Hi Audioesq.

I just purchased and took delivery of a CD7. Before that I owned a CD3 (the original version) and while I was waiting for the CD7 to arrive, the selling dealer lent me a CD3 MKII. I was able to directly compare the CD3 MKII to the CD7 at the same time, on the same equipment (solid state integrated amp). The CD3 MKII is a fabulous CD player and a great value at $5,500. As the copy says the CD7 is really better in every way. I now have about 100 hours on the CD7. The CD3 MKII has a fantastic sound stage. It produces both width and depth. The CD7 does all that but but also clearly defines the layers within the sound stage. The imaging is incredible. The performers are in the room with you. I could go on and on. I love the player. The only negative is not really a negative. I think the CD3 MKII is so good, some people will have a hard time justifying the additional cost ($5,500 compared to $8,995). If your speakers and other electronics are up to the task (I have Von Schweikert VR7 SE's)then I think the upgrade is well worth it. The CD7 is the best player I have ever heard. I've heard a couple of $20,000 and $40,000 transport DAC combinations that would be embarrassed by the CD7.

Audphile1 - My intentions in responding to the above post was to simply convey my experiences and opinion of the three players. I was not intending to write a detailed review of the sonic attributes of the CD3 MKII. Audioesq has a CD3 MKII so I didn't feel the need. I found that the CD3 MKII was a little bit quieter than the original version. It also has a little bit bit more resolution. The CD7 takes all of the qualities of the CD3 MKII and takes it to a new level. I feel it is a significant upgrade. It does however retain the basic tonal balance of both it's predecessors which I love listening to. That is why I bought the CD7 and not another brand of player.

Audiophile - I just sold my CD3 in mint condition to someone on Audiogon for $2,400 delivered. From my perspective he got an incredible piece of equipment for an awesome price. You might want to buy a used CD3 and see for yourself. Exact presentation of sound is something that is very hard to articulate. I will tell you that the sound is extended and relaxed at the same time. You get all the detail but your ears don't hurt in the process. You can listen to this player for hours on end.

Lyric HiFi is in NYC and my favorit Audio Outlet is in Mount Kisco (Westchester)

Audioesq,

It's been over a week that I've been without the CD3 MKII. You have a very impressive system. You are the only person who can judge "if it's worth the money". With that said I'll offer you a few words about the CD7. I now have about 125 hours on the player. That was not nearly enough to realize full break in on my CD3. It might not be enough time for my CD7 either. The sound is very powerful. The base is stronger than the CD3 MKII. The mid-range has more bloom to it (tubes) and is very three dimensional. The treble, is extended but not what I'd describe as bright. Overall it is similar to the CD3 MKII, but significantly more so. That is a tough concept to comprehend. I find there is a lot of emotion to the sound. I can tell you I love it . It's the best player I've had in my system which is currently evolving. I have Von Schweikert VR7 SE's. I use Verbatim interconnects and speaker cable. Verbatim is made by Paul Garner in TN. He is the set up person for Von Schweikert Audio. The cabling was worked on in conjunction with Albert Von Schweikert. I use VH Audio AirSine power cords on all components. I'll be receiving a new imported integrated amp this week. More about the integrated later.