With an amazingly successful run of over five years in its original and MK II versions the CD3 MK II has passed the torch to a worthy successor: the all-new CD5. We believe the CD5 retains the best physical attributes and features of its predecessor, while offering dramatically improved performance from the CD format.
Like the CD3 MK II the CD5 relies on the substantial Philips PRO2M laser mechanism with Audio Researchs proprietary mounting system and damping for ultra-low mechanical jitter. New high-performance circuit board material and an all-new FET direct-coupled analog output stage with beefy regulated supplies yield better performance thats measurable: channel separation is improved from 92dB to 120dB, and S/N ratio is improved from 90dB to 114dB. The CD5 is even Greener, drawing just 14 watts at idle compared to 276 watts for the CD3 MK II.Operationally, the control functions are identical, with one exception; The CD5 has a dimmable display window with four levels of illumination, plus off. Inputs include BAL and SE, ad digital outputs include BNC/coaxial and AES-EBU/XLR. The A.C. line cord is a detachable 15-amp cord with IEC connector.In performance, the CD5 approaches the attributes of the flagship REF CD7: a larger, more dimensional soundstage, higher resolution of subtle dynamics, fewer digital artefacts and less grain. The top end is airier without dryness, while the bass definition and control are both more precise and powerful. The overall sense of transparency and purity is simply breathtaking, offering a sense of relaxed intimacy with the recorded performance. You will enjoy your CD collection all over aging, and be inspired to add new releases as well.
