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-   -   Introduction of the Reference CD9 CD-DAC (https://www.audioaficionado.org/showthread.php?t=18701)

Amado 01-21-2013 04:56 PM

Introduction of the Reference CD9 CD-DAC
 
BIG PREMIERE AND ONLY AT AA !!!!

For all interested about the CD9-DAC
A letter from ARC talking about the virtues and the goods
Enjoy !!!!!

Amado 01-21-2013 04:57 PM

Page 1
 
SUBJECT: Introduction of the Reference CD9 CD-DAC
The Reference CD8 has been extremely popular, winning acclaim and awards internationally for its stellar performance since being introduced in November 2008. An engaging musical performance has kept its sales surprisingly strong, even in the face of new digital technologies. The fact is that lots of music lovers still embrace their compact disc collections and will not give them up.
After four years it is finally time to replace the REF CD8. People still want to play their CDs, but they also want to add other digital sources such as computer audio to their music systems, so we are introducing the REF CD9 CD-DAC. It combines the best of both, a super high-resolution compact disc player with a super high-resolution digital-to- analog converter that is stunning in its musicality. The retail price is $13,000.00 U.S.
The REF CD9 incorporates four digital inputs: Asynchronous USB 2.0HS, AES/EBU, RCA, and Toslink. All inputs handle 24 bit / 192k resolution. As you would expect, the REF CD9 retains the Philips PRO2R transport, still the best dedicated CD mechanism available. It is simply unsurpassed for compact disc playback.
Benefitting from what we have learned in the development of the REF DAC and the DSPre, the REF CD9 utilizes quad 24-bit DACs running in mono mode, with dual master oscillators; one for 44.1/88.2/176.4 sample rates, the other for 48/96/192kHz sample rates. Sample rate conversion is selectable for all inputs, allowing playback in native resolution or via upsampling, including compact disc and—for the first time—the USB input. Additionally, there is a selectable digital filter, with either fast or slow rolloff.
On the bench, the bandwidth of the REF CD9 is five times that of the CD8, with one tenth of the distortion, greater dynamic range, and it is also quieter.
Like the REF5SE, REF PH2SE and REF DAC, the analog section is vacuum-tube, with four 6H30 dual-triodes, and there is vacuum-tube power-supply regulation featuring a 6550WE with a 6H30. The magic is continued.
The front panel has the familiar, dimmable CD display on the left side. On the right side there are three vertical LED displays indicating Sample rates (44.1-48-88.2-96-176.4- 192 top to bottom), Input (CD-RCA-USB-AES-TOS top to bottom), and Fast-Slow- Upsample-Power (top to bottom). Underneath the LED displays there are seven silver metal buttons for Power, Previous, Play, Next, Pause, Stop, and Input. Silver handles are standard with a natural front panel. Like its predecessor, the chassis and top cover are black, and the footprint remains the same. In addition to the digital inputs, the back panel includes Digital Outputs (AES/EBU and BNC), single-ended RCA and balanced XLR outputs, and a 15A IEC power connector. It comes with our new, metal remote.

Amado 01-21-2013 04:57 PM

Page 2
 
Because it is functioning as separate DAC, our custom ASIO drivers must be installed in your computer for use with the USB 2.0HS input.
Sonically, the REF CD9 is in a new class, combining the magical musicality of tubes with new levels of transparency and aliveness. The REF CD9 sounds “faster” with greater transient speed, improved dynamics from top to bottom, much greater resolution of inner detail, with a focus and purity that is captivating. Rhythm, pace and timing are better than ever, something you must hear to appreciate.
Production is already underway, with units available this month. Please contact your sales representative to hear this Reference product yourself; it is much more than an evolutionary advancement.
Sincerely,
Audio Research Corporation

cmalak 01-21-2013 05:22 PM

Thanks for posting Amado :thumbsup:

microstrip 01-21-2013 06:29 PM

Great news for lazy people like me who still want to put a CD in the player and listen to great music. Thanks Amado.

TMcD 01-21-2013 06:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by microstrip (Post 430606)
Great news for lazy people like me who still want to put a CD in the player and listen to great music. Thanks Amado.

Me too.

mbovaird 01-21-2013 06:59 PM

Thank you for sharing. Sounds like another ARC winnner.

MDP 01-21-2013 07:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mbovaird (Post 430637)
Thank you for sharing. Sounds like another ARC winnner.

Nice Avatar !!!!!! :D

Do they make medication that can help !!!!

:lmao:

You and Joe are the best ever !!!

mbovaird 01-21-2013 08:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MDP (Post 430653)

Nice Avatar !!!!!! :D

Do they make medication that can help !!!!

:lmao:

You and Joe are the best ever !!!

Joe said the Avatar represents the gear wish from the gear fairy.

Albikes 01-21-2013 10:21 PM

The REF CD 9 is another piece to dream about! But as we've learned, these dreams can come true.


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