Warmer CD sound sought - MCD 301 or 500 or REF CD7


As much as I have enjoyed my Levinson 390S for many years now, I am finding that I prefer a warmer sound. I am considering McIntosh's MCD 301 & MCD 500, and the ARC REF CD7. I realize these 3 players purchased new are quite different from each other in price. What I am looking for is input from any who have compared two or more of these, and for those who have, what differences did you discern? And since the subject players cover a large price range, I would also be happy to learn about other recommendations, especially toward the lower end of the $3000 to $9000 price range.

I listen to vocals, jazz, solo instrumental, classical, some rock, and a little blues. The rest of my primary system is Levinson gear driving Sonus Faber Auditor M's with a REL B-2.

Thanks in advance for any guidance/suggestions anyone can share!

Steven
4musica44107
If your CD-7 has only 100h, thet you still haven't heard what it is capable of ! Wait till it hits 400h mark. And def send it back to ARC for a free PS upgrade. I just sold my CD-7 (waiting for CD-8) but this is a hell of a player. Enjoy !
Elberoth2,

Thanks for confirming what my dealer told me as well about how the CD7 will continue to improve over the next several hundred hours. Then, when I think it can't get any better, I will get the free PS upgrade and enjoy it even more.

Your system looks fantastic! I hope to eventually replace my Levinson 38S and 334 with either Audio Research REF gear, comparable Ayre gear, or possibly Shindo. Whatever gives the best synergy, which I suspect will be Audio Research.
That is wonderful! As I said, it is the best I've heard. Congratulations on making such a fine choice!

Arthur
Why do some people say AR stuff is analytical while others say it is warm with lots of air?
Abruce, Because everyone's hearing is different.This is a fact not just an opinion.