Audio Research DAC 7 vs Primare DAC 30

I own both a DAC8 and a CD7. The DAC8 has a USB input, I believe the DAC7 does not. The DAC section of the CD7 is much better than the stand alone DAC8. I use the DAC8 just for computer audio. The DAC 7 and 8 are solid state while the CD7, 8 and 9 are tube. I have not heard the CD9 in my system, I probably should borrow one and compare it to my CD7. As a stand alone player the CD7 is excellent and a bargain used. I listen to a lot of vinyl and the CD7 is very smooth and analog sounding. The CD7 and CD8 do not have digital inputs, just digital outs. The CD9 has both digital input and output which makes it more versatile.

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Agreed-

most ARC fans will tell you that the CD7 was the best ever produced, as the newer, CD 9 & CD6 are more tech (featurers) driven to mutli-task.

Still, the OP inquires about Primare and I am very curious to demo the new CD32 spinner. It has received great marks thanks to the new Sanyo drive/laser assembly!

Keep me posted & Happy Listening!

Lostbears and Jafant thank you very much for your helpful insight and taking the time to respond. I'm putting together a new system (started with Thiel 3.7's) and everyone on Audiogon have been very helpful. Thank you again.

Gasherbaum - I tried to acquire a Primare Phono Stage a while back and got messed around by both the retailer and the Distributor - both in Canada.

Net result - I bought a Simaudio Moon LP5.3RS

Just a note of Caution :-(

Regards...

Gasher-

you are in for a treat w/ the Thiel CS 3.7. It is very current hungry, so choose your power amp wisely. Thiel are my reference speakers, simply outstanding!

Keep me posted on the other gear in your system & Happy Listening!