Audio Research CD8

Description

Description Freakuence!

What a delight! Holding it already makes one happy. Heavy, it promises. This player delivers unprecedented open and transparent playback, with a midrange so pleasing that you become very curious about the next CD on the stack. Reference player.

Details

Some damage to the black casing on the left side of the top loader (slide) has been updated, see photos.

General description

The Audio Research CD8 is a CD player known for its high-quality sound reproduction. With a fully balanced design and a tube analog output stage, the CD8 offers a warm and natural sound. Sturdy construction and the use of quality components contribute to its reliability and durability. The CD8 features both balanced and single-ended outputs, providing flexibility when connecting to different amplifiers and audio systems. Its top-loading design with a Philips Pro-2 transport mechanism ensures smooth and accurate CD playback. With its timeless design and attention to detail, the Audio Research CD8 is a valuable addition for enthusiasts of high-quality audio equipment.

Audio Research CD8 Specifications

Disc Format: CD Digital Converter: 24-bit, 192kHz CD Mechanism: Pro2R Frequency Response: 0.5Hz to 20kHz Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 108dB Channel Separation: 100dB Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.03% Line Output: 1.8V (unbalanced), 3.6V (balanced) Digital Connections: coaxial, AES Tube Configuration: 5 x 6H30, 1 x 6550C Dimensions: 480 x 134 x 390 mm Weight: 14.8 kg

Background information

Designed with the same care and philosophy as their Reference series, the Audio Research CD8 uses a balanced Class-A tube output (four 6H30 tubes). The power supply is extensively regulated for minimal noise. Internally, high-quality components such as Custom Audio Research capacitors and Neotech internal wiring are used. The enclosure is solid aluminum for strength and electrical isolation. The DAC section is based on a Crystal 24-bit/192kHz chip. Development took place in the US by the regular AR development team led by Warren Gehl.

Brand history

Audio Research was founded in 1970 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States, by William Zane Johnson. The company began developing electronic tube equipment, starting with the SP-1 preamplifier. Over the years, the brand introduced several products, including the D-150 power amplifier in 1974 and the original REF1 in 1995. Audio Research moved its headquarters to Maple Grove, Minnesota, in 2007. In 2020, the company was acquired by AR Tube Audio Corporation, led by former employees. Audio Research manufactures all of its products in the United States and focuses on manual assembly of equipment. Repairs and maintenance can be done in-house. The company uses hand-wired point-to-point wiring combined with printed circuit boards. Documentation and schematics of products since 1970 are available through the company, and parts are kept in its own warehouse.

Additional information

Kleur	Silver
Merken	Audio Research

Questions & Answers

How can the Audio Research CD8 be operated?

The CD8 can be controlled from the front panel or with the included remote control, which can be used to perform functions such as play, pause and track selection.

What connection options does the CD8 offer?

The CD8 features both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs for analog connections, as well as digital outputs via AES/EBU and BNC coaxial jacks.

What DAC technology is used in the CD8?

The CD8 uses a 24-bit, 192kHz digital-to-analog converter for accurate and detailed sound reproduction.

Is the CD8 compatible with CD-R and CD-RW discs?

Yes, the CD8 can play standard audio CDs as well as CD-R and CD-RW discs.

How is the CD8 connected to an amplifier?

The CD8 can be connected to an amplifier via the balanced XLR or unbalanced RCA outputs, depending on the available inputs on the amplifier.

What power requirements does the CD8 have?

The CD8 operates on 100-135VAC 60Hz or 200-270VAC 50/60Hz, with a maximum power consumption of 120 watts.

How is the CD8 installed?

Place the CD8 on a stable, vibration-free surface, connect the desired outputs to the amplifier and connect the power cord to a suitable outlet.

What tubes are used in the CD8?

The CD8 uses four 6H30P dual-triode tubes in the analog circuit and a 6550C and 6H30P tube in the power supply.

How is the CD8 turned on?

Press the power button on the front panel; the display will light up and indicate that the unit is turned on.

Can the CD8 be used as a standalone DAC?

No, the CD8 is designed as a CD player and has no digital inputs for external sources.

All about | Audio Research CD8

Description Freakuence! | Audio Research CD8

Details | Audio Research CD8

Some damage to the black casing on the left side of the top loader (slide) has been updated, see photos.

General description | Audio Research CD8