Audio Research Ref: CD8

Mkilpi, I might say CD8 was not fully burned-in so that the frequency extremes might get even better, but I can clearly say the bass definition of CD8 is superior. It is faster and a bit more neutral in texture so that CD7 is trying to catch the timing and a bit lacks and feels like a bit heavy and boomy. I never felt CD7 had a lack of midbass weight, and indeed it was the player which had more weight and emphasis on midbass. While CD7 was louder and heavier in midbass, CD8 had a better control, faster and deeper (and probably lower) bass definition. So compared to CD8, CD7 sounded darker. On the other hand, CD8 did not have a tonal preference. The CD7 unit we tested did not have upgraded power supply kit. So, I cant comment on whether the new power supply or new DAC of CD8 or both of them creating the difference. Given Wsill's comments for power supply upgrade of CD7, I assume an upgraded CD7 performs better than original CD7. So, a comparison of an upgraded CD7 with CD8 will be more meaningful to evaluate the CD8. Best Regards.

For those who haven't seen it yet, there is a pic of an topless CD-8 on stereophile web site:

http://blog.stereophile.com/ces2009/audio_research_cd8/

ARC finally replaced CD7 with CD8 in their web site but still it does not appear under new products, also the technical specs are still missing.

I copy paste CD8 from their web site below:

REFERENCE CD8 Compact Disc Player

We are proud to introduce a model that may be the most musical and musically accurate single-chassis compact disc player, the Reference CD8. It replaces a product that was still garnering five-star reviews three years after its introduction, the esteemed Reference CD7.

With the advent of the CD5 and DAC7 in 2008, we knew that the DAC used in our Reference player needed a newer, higher-resolution version. (The new 24-bit, 192-kHz chipset is not retrofittable to the CD7.) And, our engineers found a way to physically incorporate the same power-supply regulation used in the Reference 3, using a single 6550C to replace two 6H30 triodes, giving better performance and longer tube life. Other enhancements include our newest output coupling capacitors and special damping tweaks. The playback mechanism continues to be the unsurpassed Philips PRO2R — still the best dedicated CD mechanism available.

The REFCD8 also features a new dimmable display, allowing five levels of illumination or completely off. A small LED indicator remains lit when the player is on, as a reminder to prevent the player from being left on inadvertently. In size, input and output configuration, —and in all other operational functions, the REFCD8 is identical to the REFCD7. But there the similarities end.

Sonically, the REFCD8 stands in a class all its own. While retaining the lush, full embodiment of the CD7 sound, the CD8 adds new dimensions of transparency. It immediately shows greater transient speed top-to-bottom, purer resolution of low-level detail and expanded dynamic contrasts, with more bass slam, definition and extension. The soundstage is larger and more holographic because of the heightened ability of the REFCD8 to embody and locate instruments and voices. Rhythmically, the REFCD8 also picks up the pace compared to the CD7, with improved timing cues and better rhythmic interplay. You will find other sonic dimensions to marvel as you spend time with this enticing player.

Quite simply, the REFCD8 will have you rearranging your compact disc collection all over again as you rediscover and reprioritize old and new favorites. It really is the most mesmerizing, musically accurate CD player we have ever experienced — and what better way to bring enhanced value to a growing, and costly, CD collection!

Interesting. My hybrid CD7 also came with the dimmable display and LED indicator features so its looking like I did get a lot of CD8 parts after all. Sonically it is sounding even better with superior bass definition and extension, more neutral midrange with seemingly more detail and overall better soundstaging. In my setup from what I recall the standard CD7 used to bunch images a little at the center and close to the speakers. My unit spreads the image more naturally and seamlessly between and outside of the speakers so that it is easier to pinpoint each instrument's exact location (laterally, vertically and front to back )in the soundstage. So far ARCs description of the improvements appear to be right on the money as the CD8 should be even better (hard to imagine) in this regard.

My CD8 is now spinning the Purist Audio Design System Enhancer in repeat mode and I will wait at less 24 hours before listening to it. I just measured it and did a spectral analysis to be sure everything was correct and comparing it to the CD7 could find that the CD8 output level is 3.5dB lower, as I confirmed later from the respective manuals.
When comparing these units one must carefully match the volume, otherwise the CD7 is much louder!