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.
