Audio Research Reference CD-7

I think ARC used Reference CD-7 name because there is seven 6H30 triodes inside( more on www.arcdb.ws ). But, i agree name is not very original...
Since it is using many things from REF3 preamp i am very interested to audition it as soon as it gets in my hands.

ARC literature says:

"The CD7 is a Reference Level model to complement the CD3MKII with an even higher performance. Incorporating the strongest aspects of the CD3MKII - its rugged construction, the Philips Pro2 laser mechanism, the Crystal 24 bit DAC, its user friendly menu of useful features and functions - the Reference CD7 breaks new ground with a gain stage taken directly from the REF3, incorporating the latest proprietary capacitor technology found only in Audio Research Reference components.

Using four 6H30 triodes, the audio stage features high voltage regulation using an additional three 6H30s, coupled to a massive power supply. The extensively ventilated top-load chassis is just slightly deeper front to back than the CD3MKII. Height is unchanged, while a thicker front panel helps identify the CD7 as a Reference product. Inputs, outputs and the accompanying remote are identical to the CD3MKII. The standby function on the CD3MKII is now a power on/off function on the CD7, with an LED indicator on the front panel, since this is a vacuum-tube product.

Is the CD7 really much better than the CD3MKII? Yes, it is in every aspect. The sonic background is quieter and blacker, thanks to noise and distortion figures that are significantly lower than those of the CD3MKII. Musical dynamics and sheer openness of the soundstage are also much improved, in part due to the massive power supply and carefully chosen parts. You will also hear dynamic nuances that render small ensemble recordings much more believable and vivid. Notes and sounds have more individual shape, body and location as they appear and recede. The soundstage expands and breathes as the recording calls for it. Bass response is massive and tuneful. The CD7 simply has a natural speed and ease without coloration and it is truly like the REF3 in this regard. There is a weight and harmonic completeness one expects from a reference level vacuum-tube product.

With thousands of dollars already invested in CDs, and many more yet to be purchased, it makes more sense than ever to show ARC customers how to bring out the best in their collections by investing in a CD Player that performs musically beyond anything they have previously experienced. This is the heart of what the Reference CD7 is all about."

So, it apparently has something in common with REF3...
I had CD3MkII and like it a lot. Of course it is not in the same class as Weiss Medea/Jason combo or Emmlabs combo but i think it is a good player.
I am wondering will REF CD7 be a (small) competition for units mentioned above?

I just bought ARC REF CD7. It is allready sounding very good but, more after 500hours of break-in period.
Full report in few weeks.

Barrelchief, here is small review of CD7.
Biggest suprise for me was REF CD7 bass! It is very deep and nicely defined for tube unit! This player has very good PRAT, which is good for tube based unit. Whole presentation is powerful but, not with forward soundstage.
Midrange is creamy, with excellent definition, specially on male vocals. Highs are extended but, not as some of the competitors(Esoteric X-01). Highs are without any trace of edge or grain, this player is excellent for very long listening sessions. No listening fatigue at all, IMO.
On some music(jazz) REF CD7 is more emotionaly involving them my Weiss combo. Actually, I think CD7 is emotional champ!
Break-in period is about 500hours and do not judge its sound until that time mark. REF CD7 runs quite warm(7 tubes inside!) so, it need to be put on the top of your equipment stand. It also benefites from after market power cords... With Acrolink power cord it gained up to 15% better sound. Build quality is very good but, not as good as Esoteric X-01. Value for money is excellent IMO. Even the "Digital kings" like EMMLabs, Esoteric etc. will not put CD7 to shame! In fact emotionally CD7 will better them all, IMO.
If you need excellent RBCD player for up to $10K go and audition ARC REF CD7 for yourself. Also this player is very good with bad recordings which is not always the case with top class digital players...
If you need any aditional info about REF CD7 just post it here. This player deserves thread about itself.

I will audition Meridian 808 in mid January next year. More in-depth info and impression then...
Info about Lindemann in Reference DACs thread.

Chris,
I agree with you to some degree...
But, ARC REF CD7 is together with REF3 the best ARC component in last ten years IMHO. REF CD7 is wonderfully music Cd player and is a natural choice is all ARC system.
BTW, I changed my REF210 to HD220. To my ears HD220 is better... But, this is topic for another thread.