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CD3 MkII
Audio Research CorporationEstimated price (community-sourced)
About the CD3 MkII
The Audio Research CD3 MKII is a high-end top-loading CD player featuring a Philips CD Pro2 transport mechanism and Cirrus/Crystal CS4396 24-bit Delta-Sigma DAC chips. It offers fully balanced analog outputs (XLR and RCA) and digital outputs (XLR AES/EBU and BNC coax SPDIF). The MKII version refines the original CD3 with 45 parts changes, improving resolution, reducing distortion, lowering noise floor, and enhancing micro and macrodynamics for a more spacious and natural soundstage. It uses sophisticated electronic jitter stripping and mechanical damping to minimize vibration and jitter. The player includes a small magnetic puck to secure discs and a remote control with full functionality. It is designed for continuous operation with no tubes, and outputs can be used directly with preamplifiers or as a digital transport. Dimensions are approximately 19"W x 5.25"H x 12.25"D, weighing about 25 pounds. The CD3 MKII is highly regarded for its detailed, creamy treble and organic musicality, making it a valued component in high-fidelity systems.
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