I'm running a Esoteric X03SE with ARC VT100 MkIII, ARC LS16 MkII, AP Virgo III and JL Audio F112. So you can see, I'm a big fan of ARC, but what I say is that if you like to listen to MUSIC and you want a HUGE soundstage, then it's a no brainer...X03SE...which is exactly what some others have said about the CD8! It may just be that their performance is comparable. And I agree with Acurus, the bottom end extension on the X03SE is devestatingly low. The other big plus with the X03SE is SACD. It is a shame that SACD has not gained better acceptance because it is so superior to redbook CD.
Audio Research Ref CD8 vs Esoteric X03SE
Looking to take my digital front end up a few notches and am looking at the CD8 and the X03SE. I have an Audio Research Ref3 preamp, Pass Labs X250.5 amp, and Magnepan 20.1 speakers and want a CD player with good bottom end control and extension. Need help deciding.