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.
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.