Audio Research CD-7 versus CD3-mkII

So Arthurp, does that mean that the CD3 MkII is world apart from CD3? Is there really that much of a difference that you did not even mention the sonics of the CD3 in your post above? How did the CD3 compare to the MkII version? I know it's off topic, I don't mean to steal the discussion here, but I am curious since not many discussions on the differences of the 2 players are available.

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.

Arthur, I like ARC stuff. I have ARC pre and had a CD2 in my rig for about 2 weeks(borrowed from a friend who has all ARC gear in his system) and liked it as well. I never listened to CD3, so I guess that made me curious how it sounds. But thanks for your reply. As I said before, I had no intensions to steer this off topic. thanks.

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.

Arthur, I appreciate your thoughts on the CD3. I would like to audiotion it, possibly in my system, but there are just not that many ARC dealers left around NYC. And if they do cary some ARC, it does not necessarily mean they have CD3 for demo or even in stock.