Mike, I wonder if it actually exceeds the K-03XD since it's a newer release with potential "lessons learned" and improvements implemented from upper level models (just some feedback I have heard)? I still don't get the Esoteric pricing model to have two units about $3,000 dollars apart and then jump to the K-01XD at $24,000.
Their pricing I think is brilliant...
We have one in the store and it’s really fantastic at the right price. Comes quite close to the K-03XD in performance.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
Had a friend bring over his K-05XD today with his G-05 clock and took a good listen. Certainly not thin or lean at all. I thought the tonal qualities of the unit were absolutely beautiful. Very rich and may I dare say with a nice bit or warmth. Had very good detail as well. Where it wasn’t as good was soundstage size … It seemed rather small in all directions compared to my older D-02X dac which to be fair was at a much higher price range. I’ve heard a K-01XD also and its soundstage was quite a bit larger in all directions than the K-05XD to my ears but that comes at a price to be sure. For the money it’s an awesome sounding CD Player and I would recommend highly at that price point if you are still spinning those little silver disc’s like I do. Best bet is to get it in your system and listen as system synergy is always important but a contender to be sure.
George
Hi guys,
I have the pre N-05XD and a Teac Cd Transport… any obvious gain if i was using this K-05XD or could be the case of only a side step?
Thanks