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Bryston BCD1 vs. Audio Research CD3 MkII

Has anybody compared the Bryston BCD1 with the (now discontinued) Audio Research CD 3 Mk II? Used versions of these players are now selling at roughly the same price (Bryston actually slightly more). I know that one reader (drummermitchell) earlier said he preferred the Bryston to a CD 7, but I'd like to hear other opinions from anyone who has heard both players. The AR is older technology, and the Bryston gets great reviews, but I'm nonetheless torn. I'm hesitant to try to auditon in my system, since I won't be buying it new from a dealer.

This will be replacing a Gamut CD1R which is starting to die. (It skips on early tracks of many CDS. Neither lens cleaning nor lubricating/greasing the laser track has resolved the problem. If anybody has suggestions...)

Associated equipment: Mag 3.5Rs/Audio Research VT100 X 2/Bryston crossover/Aesthetix Calypso

TIA
winstonk

Showing 1 response by consrvaudio

consrvaudio
3 posts
 
In my audio system, the BCD-1 completely outclass my 1999 CD2. The difference between the BCD-1 and CD2 is stunningly clear.

To my ears, the BCD-1 beats CD3MKII and bettered the CD5. I have not heard CD7 nor CD8.

The CD2 is 11 years old. Technology has evolved so quickly that ARC is now offering the CD Ref 8.

For those considering putting down more than $3000 for a CD player, I strongly suggest that you give the BCD-1 a listen. Price is not a good indicator of sound quality.

My digital system runs a BCD-1 (previously my CD2) to a LS25 to a pair of Emotiva XPA-1's each feeding a Thiel CS3.7.

The advances in BCD-1 is so overwhelming, we are now upgrading the LS25 to an ARC Ref-5.
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