Hi. I upgraded to the CD-3 recently after listening to a number of players. It is the most musical player I have ever heard. The best thing I can say is that I have listened for hours at a time with absolutely no "ear" fatigue. I never feel the need to escape or take a break due to harshness or other factors. My system has the CD-3 combined with ARC tube components and Vandersteen speakers.
I decided that the new formats are not determined and there was not enough music available to make that commitment. Plus, I have such an extensive red book CD collection already to appreciate. So I looked for a player dedicated to the best possible reproduction of these current CDs. I didn't want any compromise.
The CD-3 is such a player. ARC actually designed it with upsampling and in the end decided it sounded better without. I've never been sure that more samples adds anything that is more accurate, and ARC seems to have comfirmed that. I also like the top loading feature as I no long am bending over or listening to the sound of a drawer going in or out. The unit is very substantial in contruction consistent with a lifetime of reliable service.
I am enjoying my current CD collection more that ever and find that I am listening to CDs that for some reason previously didn't attract my interest. Even music styles I don't really like are finding there way on to the player just because I am fascinated to hear what they have to offer.
If you can borrow one from a dealer, do so. My advice is just spend as much time as possible listening without attempting to discern what is different or better. Then go back to what you have the differences will jump out at you.
Have fun and good luck in your choice.
I decided that the new formats are not determined and there was not enough music available to make that commitment. Plus, I have such an extensive red book CD collection already to appreciate. So I looked for a player dedicated to the best possible reproduction of these current CDs. I didn't want any compromise.
The CD-3 is such a player. ARC actually designed it with upsampling and in the end decided it sounded better without. I've never been sure that more samples adds anything that is more accurate, and ARC seems to have comfirmed that. I also like the top loading feature as I no long am bending over or listening to the sound of a drawer going in or out. The unit is very substantial in contruction consistent with a lifetime of reliable service.
I am enjoying my current CD collection more that ever and find that I am listening to CDs that for some reason previously didn't attract my interest. Even music styles I don't really like are finding there way on to the player just because I am fascinated to hear what they have to offer.
If you can borrow one from a dealer, do so. My advice is just spend as much time as possible listening without attempting to discern what is different or better. Then go back to what you have the differences will jump out at you.
Have fun and good luck in your choice.