CD3 MkII vs CD5
The CD5's max sample rate is 192 kHz against the CD3 MkII's 44.1 kHz, its signal-to-noise 114 dB against 90 dB, and its thd 0.060% against 0.025%. Both share bit depth (24-bit).
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DigitalCD PlayersDACsDiscontinued
Estimated 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.
Specifications
Digital Audio
DAC capabilities and digital audio processing
- Bit Depth
- 24-bit
- Max Sample Rate
- 44.1 kHz
- DAC Chip
- Delta-Sigma
Analog Output
Analog signal output specifications
- THD
- 0.025%
- SNR
- 90 dB
- Output Voltage
- 5.4V RMS
- Output Impedance
- 400Ω
- Max Output Voltage
- 5.4V RMS
Connectivity
Input and output connections
- Digital Outputs
- XLR Balanced AES/EBU, BNC coax SPDIF
- Analog Outputs
- Balanced XLR, Single-Ended RCA
Physical Dimensions
Size, weight, and appearance
- Dimensions
- 482.6 × 133.35 × 310.55 mm (W × H × D)
- Weight
- 11.34 kg (25 lbs)
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions