ARC CD3mk2

I went trough this a couple of months ago. I compared a number of players including the ARC CD5. In the end I chose to buy a used very late Ref CD7. I felt it was better than the CD5 and much better than the CD3 mk2. It was also cheaper than a new CD5. I did not get to compare the CD7 to the PS Audio which I think might be interesting. I also did not get a chance to hear the CD8. My dealer did not have one. I also liked the Esoteric X05 but thought that in my system the CD7 sounded better.

Hi Lostbears, Did you find the X-05 a worthwhile upgrade from the CD3mk2?

I thought the X05 was a bit better than the CD3 mk2 but I did not get to hear them back to back in the same system. A that point though I thought the CD5 was a better match for my system. The rest of my system is also Audio Research LS25 mk2/Ref 110. I have to say that I really love the CD7. It has the most analogue sound I have heard in a CD player. It is detailed but smooth with a rightness that I can't explain. I think it may have something to do with tube power supply. Originally my plan was to try and find a used CD5. But after having the CD7 in my system for a week I could not part with it. It was a dealer demo and more than I wanted to spend. But it is so much better than anything else I have heard.

I went from the CD-3Mkll to the GamuT CD-3 Mk4, I auditioned the CD-7 but liked the GamuT's sound more.

Thanks for the help.