Preface; Introduction; Warnings; Packaging - Audio Research Reference CD8 Owner's Manual

Model Reference CD8

Preface

Please take the time to carefully read this instruction
manual prior to installation or use of your Reference CD8
compact disc player. Because it is a highly advanced elec-
tronic instrument, there are several facts and procedures
you should know before you place it in operation.

Introduction

We believe the CD8 breaks new ground in the retrieval and
transmission of digital data from the C D format. In fact,
that's a large part of the fun: just as in the past, when a
new cartridge and tonearm combination brought music to
life with startlingly improved resolution, subtlety and
dynamics, so too you will discover layers of musical infor-
mation you never knew were there in the mirrored surface
of the compact disc.
What's the reason for this superior performance? Well, a
look inside the CD8 reveals a wealth of proven Audio
Research design philosophy. Circuit boards are Audio
Research engineered, with robust construction, careful
hand soldering and layouts optimized for lowest digital
noise. Sophisticated electronic "jitter stripping" techniques
help minimize jitter in the overall circuit. Advanced
massive power supply design, with two transformers and
extensive regulation, has proved crucial even in digital
applications like the CD8. The BNC and XLR digital outputs
are transformer coupled and are driven by a high-current
balanced line driver. Mechanical damping theory has also
been applied to internal mounting of key components and
to critical aspects of the transport and chassis structures
(including tuned polymer feet), to minimize vibration-
induced noise.
Both the analog output stage amplification and the power
supply regulation are all-tube and handled by a total of
five class A triode operation 6H30 vacuum tubes (four
for the analog stage and one in the power supply), and one
6550C regulator vacuum tube.
A 24 bit digital-to-analog converter and a high-current pure
class A analog output stage allow the CD8 to be used with
a line-level preamplifier or integrated amplifier. Both single-
ended (RCA) and balanced (XLR) outputs are included. Al-
ternatively, the owner may use the CD8 as a high-quality
C D transport in conjunction with an external digital
processor.
The CD drive mechanism itself represents the latest think-
ing from digital engineers, and offers performance clearly
superior to older drives. In part, this is because even the
servos of the CD8 drive operate fully in the digital domain,
whereas older transport models were actually hybrid
designs using analog servos, which placed greater demands
on power supply reserves. The CD8 laser also has a
superior eye pattern for more effective resolution of CD
data and, again, lower jitter.
In appearance, the CD8 is pure Audio Research: heavy
bevelled front panel, with handles flanking the controls on
the right and the readout display on the left. Both controls
and display readout are recessed within bevelled openings
for a more sculptured appearance. A convenient handheld
remote control of all front-panel functions and additional
functions is also included.
On the rear chassis panel you will find BNC coaxial and
XLR digital outputs. (An RCA/BNC adaptor is included with
each unit.) Analog outputs include single-ended (RCA) and
balanced (XLR).

Warnings

1. To prevent fire, or shock hazard, do not expose your
CD8 to rain or moisture.
2. This unit contains voltages which can cause serious
injury or death. Do not operate with cover removed.
Refer servicing to your authorized Audio Research dealer
or other qualified personnel.
3. The detachable power cord on your CD8 is equipped
with a heavy gauge, 3-conductor cable and a standard
three-prong grounding plug. For absolute protection, do
not de fe at the ground power plug. This provides
powerline grounding of the CD8 chassis to provide
absolute protection from electrical shock.
4. For continued protection against fire hazard, replace the
fuse only with the same type and rating as specified at
the fuse holder.
5. Do not operate the CD8 player without the supplied
CD8 clamp installed on the CD. Gently place clamp on
disc to prevent damaging spindle mechanism.
6. Whenever the CD8 power is on, the door covering the
drive mechanism/tray area should remain fully closed
after inserting or removing a CD, so as not to block
any of the perforated area of the top cover. Following
this procedure will maintain proper ventilation to pre-
vent over heating the unit and also minimize dust
intrusion on the lens and drive mechanism.

Packaging

Save all packaging in a dry place away from fire hazard.
Your CD8 compact disc player is a precision electronic
instrument and should be properly cartoned any time ship-
ment is made. You may not have occasion to return your
unit to the factory for service, but if that should prove
necessary, or other occasion requiring shipment occurs, the
original packaging will protect your CD8 from unnecessary
damage or delay.