Audio Research Reference CD8 REFCD8 Leaflet
Product codes
REFCD8
REFERENCE
CD8
Compact Disc Player
We are proud to introduce a model that may be the most musical and musically accurate single-chassis compact disc
player, the Reference CD8. It replaces a product that was still garnering five-star reviews three years after its introduction,
the esteemed Reference CD7.
player, the Reference CD8. It replaces a product that was still garnering five-star reviews three years after its introduction,
the esteemed Reference CD7.
With the advent of the CD5 and DAC7 in 2008, we knew that the DAC used in our Reference player needed a newer,
higher-resolution version (The new 24-bit, 192-kHz chipset is not retrofittable to the CD7). And, our engineers found a
way to physically incorporate the same power-supply regulation used in the Reference 3, using a single 6550C to replace
two 6H30 triodes, giving better performance and longer tube life. Other enhancements include our newest output
way to physically incorporate the same power-supply regulation used in the Reference 3, using a single 6550C to replace
two 6H30 triodes, giving better performance and longer tube life. Other enhancements include our newest output
coupling capacitors and special damping tweaks. The playback mechanism continues to be the unsurpassed Philips
PRO2R — still the best dedicated CD mechanism available.
PRO2R — still the best dedicated CD mechanism available.
The Reference CD8 also features a new dimmable display, allowing five levels of illumination or completely off. A small
LED indicator remains lit when the player is on, as a reminder to prevent the player from being left on inadvertently. In
LED indicator remains lit when the player is on, as a reminder to prevent the player from being left on inadvertently. In
size, input and output configuration, —and in all other operational functions, the Reference CD8 is identical to the
Reference CD7. But there the similarities end.
Reference CD7. But there the similarities end.
Sonically, the Reference CD8 stands in a class all its own. While retaining the lush, full embodiment of the CD7 sound, the
CD8 adds new dimensions of transparency. It immediately shows greater transient speed top-to- bottom, purer
resolution of low-level detail and expanded dynamic contrasts, with more bass slam, definition and extension. The
CD8 adds new dimensions of transparency. It immediately shows greater transient speed top-to- bottom, purer
resolution of low-level detail and expanded dynamic contrasts, with more bass slam, definition and extension. The
soundstage is larger and more holographic because of the heightened ability of the R Reference CD8 to embody and
locate instruments and voices. Rhythmically, the Reference CD8 also picks up the pace compared to the CD7, with
locate instruments and voices. Rhythmically, the Reference CD8 also picks up the pace compared to the CD7, with
improved timing cues and better rhythmic interplay. You will find other sonic dimensions to marvel as you spend time
with this enticing player.
with this enticing player.
Quite simply, the Reference CD8 will have you rearranging your compact disc collection all over again as you rediscover
and reprioritize old and new favorites. It really is the most mesmerizing, musically accurate CD player we have ever
experienced — and what better way to bring enhanced value to a growing, and costly, CD collection!
and reprioritize old and new favorites. It really is the most mesmerizing, musically accurate CD player we have ever
experienced — and what better way to bring enhanced value to a growing, and costly, CD collection!