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  1. #51
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Candy keeps coming! Good looking pieces. Look forward to listening to their top streamer/DAC.
    _______________

    Mike

    Amplification: MBL 6010D, MBL 9008A Monos
    Analog: Kuzma R, Kuzma 4Point (11”), MSL Ultra Eminent EX
    Phono Pre: Pass XP-27
    Digital: Esoteric N01XD Esoteric K05
    Speakers: MBL 101E MKII
    Subwoofers: REL Carbon Specials
    Conditioner: Shunyata Triton 3
    Power Cables: Shunyata Sigma 1 & 2, Alpha 2, Delta and Venom
    ICs and SCs: Wireworld Platinum 8
    Rack: Artesania Exoteryc

  2. #52
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by Ritmo View Post
    ...Look forward to listening to their top streamer/DAC.
    That is a good point. I have been contemplating changing from N-01 to N-03T + D1X, but the N-01XD might cause me to rethink that.
    Speakers: Magico M3, ACC, S-SUB | Electronics: Esoteric Grandioso stack | Amplification: Halcro |
    Analog cables: Crystal Cable | Digital cables: Shunyata Sigma | Rack: YG Acoustics Rack 1.8
    | Source: Kaleidescape Premiere (4 x 6TB) | Power: Shunyata Typhon-QR, Everest and Denali

  3. #53
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    Esoteric XD Series

    Ok, 6 discs in now. Color me VERY impressed. “Natural” is the word for this new XD series. Gone is the bite, digital sound of old Esoteric. It doesn’t have the “analogness” (if that’s a word) of Luxman, but what it has is dynamics, punch, detail, separation, bass is tight as hell, amazing vocals and an amazing “naturalness” that has zero fatigue. It’s kind of strange, but it truly resembles “live”. PRAT.

    It’s so incredibly “composed”. I am throwing some complex music at it and it’s handling everything with ease and control.

    I do have the filters set to 4FS. Have not played too much with the other filters.
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
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  4. #54
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    ...and it's only the middle sibling K-03XD, there is still big brother K-01XD and grand daddy K1X, and the king combo D1X/P1X above that!
    Speakers: Magico M3, ACC, S-SUB | Electronics: Esoteric Grandioso stack | Amplification: Halcro |
    Analog cables: Crystal Cable | Digital cables: Shunyata Sigma | Rack: YG Acoustics Rack 1.8
    | Source: Kaleidescape Premiere (4 x 6TB) | Power: Shunyata Typhon-QR, Everest and Denali

  5. #55
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by brodricj View Post
    ...and it's only the middle sibling K-03XD, there is still big brother K-01XD and grand daddy K1X, and the king combo D1X/P1X above that!
    But at $14K this is a “sweet spot” for those wanting a world class spinner. I would have gone for the K-01XD, but worried that cracking that $20K barrier (it’s $22K) would be too much for some. The $14K is more achievable and still delivers this incredible level of performance.

    When T+A spinners were under $20k, we sold them like crazy. When they had their big price increase (April 2018) and went way over $20K, it made things much more challenging.
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
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  6. #56
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    I do have the filters set to 4FS. Have not played too much with the other filters.
    Have you tried setting it to DSD?
    Peter Lie
    LUMIN Firmware Lead

  7. #57
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by wklie View Post
    Have you tried setting it to DSD?
    I have. Yes.
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
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    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  8. #58
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    Ok, 6 discs in now. Color me VERY impressed. “Natural” is the word for this new XD series. Gone is the bite, digital sound of old Esoteric. It doesn’t have the “analogness” (if that’s a word) of Luxman, but what it has is dynamics, punch, detail, separation, bass is tight as hell, amazing vocals and an amazing “naturalness” that has zero fatigue. It’s kind of strange, but it truly resembles “live”. PRAT.

    It’s so incredibly “composed”. I am throwing some complex music at it and it’s handling everything with ease and control.



    I do have the filters set to 4FS. Have not played too much with the other filters.
    Mike, please comment on the sound stage - width, depth, layering. (Although I recognize that with your MBL home system (?), this aspect may not be representative of what a typical user might experience?)

  9. #59
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by GSOphile View Post
    Mike, please comment on the sound stage - width, depth, layering. (Although I recognize that with your MBL home system (?), this aspect may not be representative of what a typical user might experience?)
    After warm up, I noticed soundstage wide to be one of the strong points. As good as anything I’ve tried. As the evening went on, soundstage depth, especially during a couple of live recordings, was superb. Definitely great layering as well. I am completely blown away by this new Esoteric sound. In a word: “live”.
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  10. #60

    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    Ok, 6 discs in now. Color me VERY impressed. “Natural” is the word for this new XD series. Gone is the bite, digital sound of old Esoteric. It doesn’t have the “analogness” (if that’s a word) of Luxman, but what it has is dynamics, punch, detail, separation, bass is tight as hell, amazing vocals and an amazing “naturalness” that has zero fatigue. It’s kind of strange, but it truly resembles “live”. PRAT.

    It’s so incredibly “composed”. I am throwing some complex music at it and it’s handling everything with ease and control.

    I do have the filters set to 4FS. Have not played too much with the other filters.
    What do you consider "old Esoteric"? Are you comparing K-03-XD to K-03 or K-03X?

    What are the optional filters and on the XD? I have two K-03-X and '4FS' is not an option. What are the upsampling options?

  11. #61

    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    After warm up, I noticed soundstage wide to be one of the strong points. As good as anything I’ve tried. As the evening went on, soundstage depth, especially during a couple of live recordings, was superb. Definitely great layering as well. I am completely blown away by this new Esoteric sound. In a word: “live”.
    Any comparisons to EMM sound signature? I'd figure they would have more in common with other.

    Rather than MSB as an example.

    The N01XD streamer might be a winner for me in the future.

    Looking forward to reading more about it.

  12. #62
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by aardvarkbark View Post
    What do you consider "old Esoteric"? Are you comparing K-03-XD to K-03 or K-03X?

    What are the optional filters and on the XD? I have two K-03-X and '4FS' is not an option. What are the upsampling options?
    You can download the K-03XD user manual from the Esoteric website. Basically the 4Fs setting is 4x upsampling (goes up to 16x). There are no optional filters as with the K-03X (and earlier) players.

  13. #63
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    I’ve always really enjoyed the sound of the Esoteric Players and Streamers. In my opinion, the Master Clock is not really necessary. It can change the sonic signature. Hard to beat the K-01XD and K-03XD at their respective price points.

    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  14. #64
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    I wonder how a complete Grandioso Series (SACD, DAC, Pre-Amp, Amps) would sound compared to the MSB Select II?

  15. #65
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by Calvin View Post
    I wonder how a complete Grandioso Series (SACD, DAC, Pre-Amp, Amps) would sound compared to the MSB Select II?
    I owned the Esoteric Grandioso K1 CD/SACD Player and Grandioso G1 Master Clock (not the Grandioso preamp or amps), and in my opinion, the MSB Select II DAC is sonically superior. But I think we’ve covered this ground before.

    The preamp was ARC REF10 and the amps were Vandersteen M7-HPA monoblocks.

    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  16. #66
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    I owned the Esoteric Grandioso K1 CD/SACD Player and Grandioso G1 Master Clock (not the Grandioso preamp or amps), and in my opinion, the MSB Select II DAC is sonically superior. But I think we’ve covered this ground before.

    Ken
    Sorry, what I was getting at was has the Grandioso been updated with the "new Esoteric" sound, or is it still the "old" sound? If updated how does it compare ...

  17. #67
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by Calvin View Post
    I wonder how a complete Grandioso Series (SACD, DAC, Pre-Amp, Amps) would sound compared to the MSB Select II?
    In my opinion the MSB Select II would be an easy choice in this comparison. Sound / performance wise and also in terms of hardware and software obsolescence.
    Buddy

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  18. #68
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by Calvin View Post
    Sorry, what I was getting at was has the Grandioso been updated with the "new Esoteric" sound, or is it still the "old" sound? If updated how does it compare ...
    Hi Calvin,

    The Esoteric sound changes every year with the new models. Mike is saying a nice improvement with the XD so maybe they’ve closed the gap some. But the Select II DAC got better too with the introduction of their Pro USB Module.

    Ken
    "No summit worth climbing is easily attained."
    --------------------------------------------
    Source: MSB Select II DAC with Two Mono Powerbases and Femto 33 Clock; Renderer V2 Digital Input Module and Roon Nucleus Plus; MSB UMT V Signature Transport
    Amps: Vandersteen M7-HPA Mono Amps; MSB M204 Mono Amps
    Speakers: Vandersteen Model 7 Mk2
    Power: Two AudioQuest Niagara 5000’s with AudioQuest Dragon and Hurricane Power Cords

  19. #69
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Esoteric went from an approx 4-year product cycle to 2 years with the S series, but with their new in-house FPGA DAC technology
    1- they have the potential to upgrade their DACs via software (if they so choose), and
    2- they are now divorced from the AKM DAC chip product cycles,
    so maybe their future product cycles will lengthen.

  20. #70
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by aardvarkbark View Post
    What do you consider "old Esoteric"? Are you comparing K-03-XD to K-03 or K-03X?

    What are the optional filters and on the XD? I have two K-03-X and '4FS' is not an option. What are the upsampling options?
    I had the K-01x, and older K-05 and a Grandioso K1.

    I always felt the older esoteric had “bite” and was over sibilant, and very detailed.

    I was then at one of the shows last year and walked into the Esoteric room. I could tell right away this was a different, very different. I believe you can find my comments about sitting and listening in this room.

    This new XD has such incredible dynamics, bunch and bass control, while none of the previous bite/sibilance. Highly impressed!


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

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  21. #71
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by GSOphile View Post
    Esoteric went from an approx 4-year product cycle to 2 years with the S series, but with their new in-house FPGA DAC technology
    1- they have the potential to upgrade their DACs via software (if they so choose), and
    2- they are now divorced from the AKM DAC chip product cycles,
    so maybe their future product cycles will lengthen.
    They would do themselves proud if they were to confirm they intend to offer an upgrade path, even if only firmware. Their history suggests they will find a way to make any upgrades come with a new model number. Without confirmation I will remain skeptical.
    Main Equipment: Kharma Elegance dB11-S, JL Audio F113v2, Block Audio Line & Mono SE Amplification, Bricasti M21 DAC, Antipodes Kala K-50 Server with 4TB internal SSD
    Power: Shunyata Everest 8000, Sigma XC v2, Block Audio Power Cords, Defender, ADDPowr Wizard
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    Cables: Wireworld Platinum Starlight 8 USB, Wireworld Platinum Eclipse 8 Speaker cables, 1M & 6M Tubulus Concentus ICs,
    Other: Isoacoustics GAIA I footers on the Kharmas, GIK & Stillpoint Apertures, Stillpoint Ultra SS under
    Everest and Amplifiers, Three dedicated 20 Amp lines w/Furutech GTX - Gold outlets, Adona 5 Shelf rack, ROON, a few HRS weights

  22. #72
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    The K-03XD already had a firmware upgrade FWIW, adding MQA functionality. The process is here:

    K-03XD | DOWNLOADS | ESOTERIC:Japan high-end audio manufacturer | エソテリック
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
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  23. #73
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    The K-03XD already had a firmware upgrade FWIW, adding MQA functionality. The process is here:

    K-03XD | DOWNLOADS | ESOTERIC:Japan high-end audio manufacturer | エソテリック
    Thats great Mike. Hmmm.
    Main Equipment: Kharma Elegance dB11-S, JL Audio F113v2, Block Audio Line & Mono SE Amplification, Bricasti M21 DAC, Antipodes Kala K-50 Server with 4TB internal SSD
    Power: Shunyata Everest 8000, Sigma XC v2, Block Audio Power Cords, Defender, ADDPowr Wizard
    Grounding: Shunyata Altaira CGS - Alpha CGS cables
    Network : Supra Cat 8+, Twin (Nenon) Modified Buffalo GS2016 Switches with fiber in between powered with Keces P3 LPSU,
    Cables: Wireworld Platinum Starlight 8 USB, Wireworld Platinum Eclipse 8 Speaker cables, 1M & 6M Tubulus Concentus ICs,
    Other: Isoacoustics GAIA I footers on the Kharmas, GIK & Stillpoint Apertures, Stillpoint Ultra SS under
    Everest and Amplifiers, Three dedicated 20 Amp lines w/Furutech GTX - Gold outlets, Adona 5 Shelf rack, ROON, a few HRS weights

  24. #74
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by Calvin View Post
    Sorry, what I was getting at was has the Grandioso been updated with the "new Esoteric" sound, or is it still the "old" sound? If updated how does it compare ...
    The Esoteric Grandioso K1 was superseded by the K1X in 2019. This model was the first Esoteric player with the new Atlas transport and FPGA DAC technologies now found in the K-01XD and K-03XD.

  25. #75
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    I’ve had it playing non-stop. I’ve been listening again tonight and currently spinning The Essential Sade. A fantastic reissue and considerably better than the original Sade digital releases.

    I’m noticing tonight how composed it is with musical complexities. Nothing gets lost in translation or “smudged”.

    I’ll let it break in a few more days and then play with the filters a bit more.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  26. #76

    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by Alpinist View Post
    I’ve always really enjoyed the sound of the Esoteric Players and Streamers. In my opinion, the Master Clock is not really necessary. It can change the sonic signature. Hard to beat the K-01XD and K-03XD at their respective price points.

    Ken
    but...have you ever actually owned or heard either k01xd or k03xd?

  27. #77
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    The K-03XD has been running all week. It was “yo-yo’ing” a bit a couple of days ago, but has really settled down now and it’s sound signature is shining through.

    I’ve experimented more with the filters as well. The DSD has a softer, mellower tone, almost like someone through a light sheet/blanket over the speakers. On overly bright or forward speakers (like Paradigm), some may prefer this setting. On my MBL 101e mk2’s, I’ve been really enjoying 4Fs the most. This upsamples all incoming signals below 176.4hz to 176.4hz.

    I have been spinning a lot of discs and when not actively listening, things are on repeat.

    The only digital input I have tested is the USB (with a Sigma USB Esoteric XD Series) and I can honestly say, the USB input definitely rivals the spinner, not 1:1, but certainly 90-95% of it. That’s a first, but to be fair, it could be the Shunyata Sigma USB which is the best I’ve ever heard - by far. Must CD players digital inputs take a back seat to their rival transport section. Not the case with the K-03XD. I find the USB input exceedingly transparent, just like the transport.
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  28. #78
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Considering K-03XD has inherited quite a bit of technology from D1X ($50K) and P1X ($50K), $14K is a much sweeter price point than $100K.
    Speakers: Magico M3, ACC, S-SUB | Electronics: Esoteric Grandioso stack | Amplification: Halcro |
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  29. #79
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    Esoteric XD Series

    Mike - How’s the soundstage? I’ve had a few Esoteric models through my room. Had the Grandioso K1 for the longest. I always found that sounds were very pinpointed in the soundstage, wide and deep.. but incredibly exact. Whereas the EMM feels more like live music with brushstrokes in the soundstage.

    Not saying either is a bad thing, just always seemed to be the house sound of Esoteric gear.


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  30. #80
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by Phishphan View Post
    Mike - How’s the soundstage? I’ve had a few Esoteric models through my room. Had the Grandioso K1 for the longest. I always found that sounds were very pinpointed in the soundstage, wide and deep.. but incredibly exact. Whereas the EMM feels more like live music with brushstrokes in the soundstage.

    Not saying either is a bad thing, just always seemed to be the house sound of Esoteric gear.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    Wide and deep with pinpoint accuracy. Still beyond impressed. Love that it’s so much more natural than previous esoteric models.


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  31. #81
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    The K-03XD has been running all week. It was “yo-yo’ing” a bit a couple of days ago, but has really settled down now and it’s sound signature is shining through.

    I’ve experimented more with the filters as well. The DSD has a softer, mellower tone, almost like someone through a light sheet/blanket over the speakers. On overly bright or forward speakers (like Paradigm), some may prefer this setting. On my MBL 101e mk2’s, I’ve been really enjoying 4Fs the most. This upsamples all incoming signals below 176.4hz to 176.4hz.

    I have been spinning a lot of discs and when not actively listening, things are on repeat.

    The only digital input I have tested is the USB (with a Sigma USB Esoteric XD Series) and I can honestly say, the USB input definitely rivals the spinner, not 1:1, but certainly 90-95% of it. That’s a first, but to be fair, it could be the Shunyata Sigma USB which is the best I’ve ever heard - by far. Must CD players digital inputs take a back seat to their rival transport section. Not the case with the K-03XD. I find the USB input exceedingly transparent, just like the transport.
    Mike, curious to know if this unit is competitive in a streaming configuration with somewhat comparably priced solutions from Aqua, Chord, Lumin, MSB, etc.

  32. #82

    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by Phishphan View Post
    Mike - How’s the soundstage? I’ve had a few Esoteric models through my room. Had the Grandioso K1 for the longest. I always found that sounds were very pinpointed in the soundstage, wide and deep.. but incredibly exact. Whereas the EMM feels more like live music with brushstrokes in the soundstage.

    Not saying either is a bad thing, just always seemed to be the house sound of Esoteric gear.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    When you say brushstrokes. I assume, that the EMM has more detail, resolution, clarity = less jitter than the AKM based Esoteric of past?

    The new FPGA Esoteric products seem to be game changer over the past AKM products.

    Downside I see is still the extra boxes and cables to add external clocks to Esoteric.

    Whereas, EMM no need for an external clock.

  33. #83
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    Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by GSOphile View Post
    Mike, curious to know if this unit is competitive in a streaming configuration with somewhat comparably priced solutions from Aqua, Chord, Lumin, MSB, etc.
    Well, I’m feeding it with the Aurender W20SE which runs flawlessly as opposed to Roon. The K-03XD’s USB input, IMO, is right up there sonically with the transport itself, which is very rare. I have found more often then not, in this type of situation, the transport sounds quite a bit better than streaming via the digital inputs. Of course there are a lot of factors involved in this, so possibly, it’s the Aurender that’s taking it up to the same level.

    Sonically, the Aqua, Chord and others are so different. The MSB for me remains the analog champion of the world. You like the sound master tape? MSB is it. Other DAC’s like the EMM and Esoteric are pinpoint accuracy, detail champs. They’re not trying to sound like your turntable or your reel to reel. They have their own sound.

    That being said, this new Esoteric sound really threads the needle between organic/analog and accuracy/details. It’s a fine line and the XD does it so well.


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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Since Mike is sleeping on the job again....A review of the K01XD

    Esoteric K-01XD SACD player/USB DAC Review - Dagogo
    Amps: First Watt SIT-3, Pass XA25, Valvet E2 SE, LTA ZOTL40, First Watt SIT-1 Mono's, ARC Ref75SE, Decware Zen TorII MK4, Line Magnetic 845 Premium, Raven Reflection MK2, Audio Hungary Qualiton X200, Kingko 101Pro, Audio Hungary Qualiton I50

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  35. #85
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by Billion$Baby View Post
    Since Mike is sleeping on the job again....A review of the K01XD

    Esoteric K-01XD SACD player/USB DAC Review - Dagogo
    Ha! Not me. Esoteric XD Series

    Thanks for posting. Good review. Some good technical info too.

    I’m listening to a SACD right now and it’s just spectacular.


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  36. #86
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Mike, are you going to get D1X in the store?
    Speakers: Magico M3, ACC, S-SUB | Electronics: Esoteric Grandioso stack | Amplification: Halcro |
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  37. #87
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by brodricj View Post
    Mike, are you going to get D1X in the store?
    No plans at this time. If interest is shown, maybe. But with esoteric, the real customer interest is Grandioso K1X on down. That being said, I do have one customer talking P1X/D1X, so we shall see.
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  38. #88
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    I'd like to know how close K1X comes to P1X/D1X. Also N-01XD -vs- N-03T/D1X would be interesting.
    Speakers: Magico M3, ACC, S-SUB | Electronics: Esoteric Grandioso stack | Amplification: Halcro |
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  39. #89
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by brodricj View Post
    I'd like to know how close K1X comes to P1X/D1X. Also N-01XD -vs- N-03T/D1X would be interesting.
    It all comes down to the latest technology DAC chip. I owned the Grandioso K1 and it sounded better than the P1/D1 because it had a later DAC chip. If the DAC chip is identical, the separates will provide an advantage.

    Ken
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    --------------------------------------------
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  40. #90
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    My K-03XD has been running non-stop. I finally feel like it’s changes have stopped and it’s fully broken in. To my surprise, it’s really smooth out across all frequencies. Yup, it’s a keeper.


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  41. #91
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    There is a new Grandioso C1X pre-amp just released also.
    Speakers: Magico M3, ACC, S-SUB | Electronics: Esoteric Grandioso stack | Amplification: Halcro |
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  42. #92
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    For those not interested in spinning discs, the N-01xd looks fantastic on paper! Basically a streaming DAC (network card built in) which is also Roon Ready. It sounds it’s the same DAC as in K-01xd, but not sure what the network bridge is.

  43. #93
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by thyname View Post
    For those not interested in spinning discs, the N-01xd looks fantastic on paper! Basically a streaming DAC (network card built in) which is also Roon Ready. It sounds it’s the same DAC as in K-01xd, but not sure what the network bridge is.
    I have one on order!!!


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  44. #94
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Chances are good that the Network Bridge has some Lumin DNA.
    Main - JVC QL-Y7/Denon DL-301 Mk II, Gold Note PH-10, Jays CDT3 Mk3 , Auralic Aries G2.2, Holo May KTE, Supratek Cabernet, Kinki Studio EX-B7 monoblocks, Verity Audio Otello, (2) Rythmik F12SE, Audio Envy IC, SC & PC's, Triode Wire Lab PC's, Inakustik USB and I2S, (2) Puritan Audio Labs PSM-156 with Groundmaster City, Timbernation rack

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  45. #95
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    I have one on order!!!


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
    Great! Love to hear your impressions once you get it

  46. #96
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by Jack View Post
    Chances are good that the Network Bridge has some Lumin DNA.
    Highly doubt it. I also don’t think LUMIN does their own network cards / bridges. Likely something from Converse Digital, or even a custom implementation of a Raspberry Pi platform

  47. #97
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Neither the Conversdigital products nor the Raspberry Pi products have anything in common with anything Lumin produces. I own a PSA Bridge II which is a Conversdigital product and they don't even slightly resemble the operation of a Lumin either functionally or sound wise. The Conversdigital boards are designed for companies that think they need to include a network option when they have nothing in their own product line. Dozens of companies use a version of the same board PSA does. Lumin has had a working relationship with Teac/Esoteric for a number of years.
    Main - JVC QL-Y7/Denon DL-301 Mk II, Gold Note PH-10, Jays CDT3 Mk3 , Auralic Aries G2.2, Holo May KTE, Supratek Cabernet, Kinki Studio EX-B7 monoblocks, Verity Audio Otello, (2) Rythmik F12SE, Audio Envy IC, SC & PC's, Triode Wire Lab PC's, Inakustik USB and I2S, (2) Puritan Audio Labs PSM-156 with Groundmaster City, Timbernation rack

    Family Room - Oppo UDP-203, Auralic Aries, Aqua La Voce S3, Kinki Studio EX-M1+, Nola KO, (2) Rythmik F-12G, Wireworld SC & IC's, Neotech PC's, SurgeX SA-1810

    Greenville, SC- Jays CDT2 Mk 3, Auralic Aries G1, Holo Spring 3 KTE, Supratek Chardonnay, Odyssey Audio Kismet Reference, Rosso Fiorentino Volterra 2, (2) RSL Speedwoofers, iFi Audio Power Station, Wireworld IC's, Inakustik USB and I2s, Triode Wire Lab SC, Triode Wire Lab PC's, Furutech NCF Clear Line, Timbernation rack.

  48. #98
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    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    The K-03XD is fully broken in now and is a wrap around massive soundstage product. It has incredible transparency and detail. It too plays MQA CD’s and plays the MQA later. It offers filtering options as well. The new remote is dual sided.

    I have posted videos on my YouTube channel comparing the Esoteric K-03XD to the Luxman D-10x. Both are similar in price. For the videos we used the exact same cables and CD and volume matching. It’s very interesting and they are totally different (but both in a good way).


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  49. #99
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Jul 2013
    Location
    Orlando, FL
    Posts
    250

    Re: Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    The K-03XD is fully broken in now and is a wrap around massive soundstage product. It has incredible transparency and detail. It too plays MQA CD’s and plays the MQA later. It offers filtering options as well. The new remote is dual sided.
    I have posted videos on my YouTube channel comparing the Esoteric K-03XD to the Luxman D-10x. Both are similar in price. For the videos we used the exact same cables and CD and volume matching. It’s very interesting and they are totally different (but both in a good way).
    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
    The differences between them are what I heard in the video someone posted the other day comparing the D-10x, D-08u, and K-03XD.

    I'd love to know how the K-01XD and Grandioso K1X compare.
    Christian

    south: Mark Levinson No. 52 pre, Bricasti M28 amps, Lumin A1, Oppo BDP-205, Pioneer CT-43, Sony SS-AR1 Speakers, Audioquest PCs, Audioquest speaker cables, Audioquest & Iconoclast interconnects, HB Power Design Powerslave Star Galaxy power distributor

    north: Vitus SIA-030, Luxman D-10X, Sony TC-KA3ES, Harbeth 40.2, Siltech cables

  50. #100
    Audioshark
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    Sarasota, FL
    Posts
    30,044

    Esoteric XD Series

    Quote Originally Posted by Rnrmf View Post
    The differences between them are what I heard in the video someone posted the other day comparing the D-10x, D-08u, and K-03XD.

    I'd love to know how the K-01XD and Grandioso K1X compare.
    I am so enamored with the K-03XD, that I have placed an order for the Grandioso K1X and *NEW* Grandioso PS1 ($15k) after talking at length to my Esoteric Rep and contemplating the P1X and D1X. The Grandioso K1X is “XD” in design but won’t be called such. It is the latest and greatest all in one.



    " ... Grandioso PS1 is an external enhanced power supply unit dedicated to the analog circuit (D / A converter module) of Grandioso K1X. The PS1 has four powerful independent power transformers dedicated to analog circuits. In the K1X alone, the first stage (D / A stage) and the second stage (buffer amplifier stage) of the analog circuit are driven by one power transformer per channel, but by connecting PS1, the D / A stage and buffer amplifier The power transformer of each stage is made independent, and it is strengthened to × 2 transformer specification per channel. Digital / analog separation has been clarified to eliminate mutual interference. Double the amount of power supply circuit allows room for DC power supply, contributing to a more powerful tone and improved S / N ... "

    " ... By shutting down the power transformers for the two analog circuits originally mounted on the K1X, vibration of the transformers and leakage flux (leakage flux) to the analog circuits can be suppressed, and sound quality can be improved ... "

    " ... high-quality analog DC power is supplied from a separate unit, and digital uses the internal power supply of the K1X, thereby promoting digital / analog power separation ... "





    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

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