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Digital Drive Upsamplers, DACs, jitter, shakes and analogue withdrawals, this is it. |
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Digital Drive Upsamplers, DACs, jitter, shakes and analogue withdrawals, this is it. |
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Model: CD73T Category: CD Player/Recorder Suggested Retail Price: $699 USD Description: CD Player Manufacturer URL: Arcam Model Picture: View
Review by EdAInWestOC (A) on February 16, 2004 at 16:16:09
IP Address: 69.137.57.98Add Your Review
for the CD73THere's my attempt at a review...What can be said about this player that hasn't already been covered? The press has been positive and there have been numerous recommendations on the Asylum. It comes with a bit of a reputation, something to prove.
I was looking for a redbook only player and something under $1000US. There are plenty of choices, but my requirement was that the player was capable of very smooth reproduction. I am an avid vinyl guy and I cannot tolerate the CD harshness.
I was fortunate enough to have a nearby Arcam dealer and made an appointment for an audition. The dealer had to order one so the unit that I auditioned was new and right out of the box. I listened to it with the understanding that the sound would change after break-in.
It had a very neutral sound, full of subtle details and very smooth. It also had a slightly analytical sound, but I attributed that to the newness of the unit. I listened to several CDs and left very satisfied that I may have found my choice.
I informed the dealer that I still had a little shopping to do, but I believed that I would be back to get the unit in about 6 weeks. The dealer held onto the unit and broke it in for me. I picked it up a couple of days ago.
The analytical sound that I described above has vanished and the player is musical in every way. I have been through about 40 CDs and I have some observations.
This player is, as I described above, very neutral. It has beautiful midranges, extended smooth highs and solid lows. The bass is not overly boomy or muddled, just solid and very deep. Excellent soundstage and reproduction.
The CD73T has the newer Wolfson WM 8740 DAC and its claim to fame is the lower noise floor and extreme dynamic range. It has a 112db S/N ratio and man this thing is quiet. The music jumps out of total silence. The background just isn't there. Wonderful.
The player's construction is solid and very well finished, but not overly so. You are not left with the impression that you money has gone for a pretty face, but for a player with quality internal parts and a nice case. Its operation is flawless. The loading drawer is quick and solid and the remote is well laid out and easy to use.
The player also seems relatively immune from external vibrations. The prior player required vibration feet to stop it from skipping when playing loud passages. The Arcam simply played through...no problems.
The back panel has two sets of unbalanced outputs, a coax and an optical digital output. You can use it as a transport if you so desire. The line cord is a modular type that you can replace with a high priced one if you so choose.
The front panel has the CD drawer, the display (which can be dimmed or switched off via the remote), the "Load" button, "Play" button, "Stop" button, "Pause" button, "<<" or rewind button, ">>" or fast forward button, track back, track forward and power buttons. All of the buttons, except for the power button, are small round silver buttons that have a short but positive feel. The power button is also small but deeper, with a very positive feel.
The CD73T is also upgradeable. You can choose to upgrade it to the 82 or the 93T. I haven't checked out the costs, nice option though.
I've listened to a variety of CDs (Diana Krall, Norah Jones, GRP, Humphrey Davis Jr, Beatles, Styx, Ten Years After, America, Aerosmith, James Taylor, Elton John, etc.). This player will make the best sound great, and the meager a bit better. It can reveal hidden details in some of your old favorites and do justice to the best you own.
It cannot do the impossible though. There are still numerous lousy CDs that are beyond help, but like all great gear it is only limited by the software. I believe this is the point and the goal. Listening to your CD collection through this player can be an education.
I have never owned Arcam equipment prior to this player. I made a point of checking out their support reputation. Based on feedback/reports Arcam stands by their products. Of course I hope to never find out, but a good reputation helps in the purchase decision.
This is a relatively inexpensive player that is quite capable of making you forget what your source of music is. It does not have a personality or sound of its own. You just listen to the music and enjoy. Well done Arcam. Recommended.
Product Weakness: None Product Strengths: Very detailed sound. Neutral and quiet. Solid lows, smooth midrange and highs.
Associated Equipment for this Review: Amplifier: Yamaha R-2000 Preamplifier (or None if Integrated): None Sources (CDP/Turntable): Arcam CD73T, Denon DP-62L Speakers: Magnepan MGMC1, Polg 450 Sub Cables/Interconnects: Ixos 1112, Monster Original Speaker Interconnects Music Used (Genre/Selections): Rock, Jazz Type of Audition/Review: Product Owner
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Topic - REVIEW: Arcam CD73T CD Player/Recorder - EdAInWestOC 16:16:09 02/16/04 (1)
- Arcam CD73T CD Player/Recorder - Alnicoman 19:44:54 02/16/04 (0)
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