Audio Research CD-7 versus CD3-mkII


I own the CD3-mkII, which I believe is a fabulous player, especially for its reasonable cost.

Anyone have the opportunity to compare the CD7 to it, especially with the same ancillary equipment??

I welcome your detailed listening comments, as I am considering this upgrade. By the way, I listen to classic rock, r & b, and some classical music, so my tastes are all over the place.
Ag insider logo xs@2xaudioesq
Audioesq,

It's been over a week that I've been without the CD3 MKII. You have a very impressive system. You are the only person who can judge "if it's worth the money". With that said I'll offer you a few words about the CD7. I now have about 125 hours on the player. That was not nearly enough to realize full break in on my CD3. It might not be enough time for my CD7 either. The sound is very powerful. The base is stronger than the CD3 MKII. The mid-range has more bloom to it (tubes) and is very three dimensional. The treble, is extended but not what I'd describe as bright. Overall it is similar to the CD3 MKII, but significantly more so. That is a tough concept to comprehend. I find there is a lot of emotion to the sound. I can tell you I love it . It's the best player I've had in my system which is currently evolving. I have Von Schweikert VR7 SE's. I use Verbatim interconnects and speaker cable. Verbatim is made by Paul Garner in TN. He is the set up person for Von Schweikert Audio. The cabling was worked on in conjunction with Albert Von Schweikert. I use VH Audio AirSine power cords on all components. I'll be receiving a new imported integrated amp this week. More about the integrated later.
Arthurp,

Well, I pulled the trigger. Received my CD7 last week and it is still breaking in. I look forward to sitting down and spending some time listening to it after about 200 hours break-in.
I will let you know. Once again, thank you for your thoughts and comments.
Arthurp, because I heard so much good about CD3 MkII, I purchased it. BTW, have you used your ARC players, either CD3 or CD7, with XLR cables or single ended into your pre-amps? CD3 MkII with XLR cables sounds significantly better than with the same cables in RCA term. I would think that same would apply to CD7.
Regards.
Can anyone comment on the difference between the original CD3 and the MkII version? What changes did they make and are the differences substantial? Also, seems people prefer using balanced IC's with these players. I've only got single ended on my SP16--should I be considering another player?
Anyone have the opportunity to compare CD-7 to Meridian 808 signature and Esoteric 01 limited?