Esoteric K-01 vs K-01X

[Mike]

Can anyone explain the differences to me?

Retail on a K-01x is $21,000. K-01's are going for $7800-$9000 on Audiogon. Is there that much of a difference?

From the Esoteric website, it says:

"Four years after the release of the K-01—the world’s leading all-in-one digital player—the new K-01X debuts as a more compact version of Esoteric’s flagship Grandioso model. Utilizing the same type of highly rigid chassis construction as the Grandioso and a similar four-transformer power supply, it integrates the Grandioso P1’s high-precision VRDS-NEO “VMK-3.5-20S” turntable with two independent monaural DAC units derived from the Grandioso D1 design, each configured with a parallel array of 8 individual converters, which are summed to optimize linearity and minimize noise.
Electronic circuitry has also been further improved with the latest technologies, including a new AK4495S DAC IC, an advanced 35-bit D/A processing algorithm, an HCLD buffer amp, a DSD-compatible USB interface, and a large, low phase noise clock, all ensuring the K-01X achieves the absolute pinnacle of sound quality."

[The Sandman]

The X version can be used as a DSD capable outboard DAC whereas the previous version can't. Other than that there are some internal upgrades but I haven't heard anybody comparing sound of the two head to head.

[Mike]

Thanks Howard.

I'm curious if anyone has heard and compared both.

[The Sandman]

Thanks Howard.

I'm curious if anyone has heard and compared both.

I haven't seen anything written about the sound online or in print. I believe that the first wave of X version units only arrived in the states recently so there's probably not many of them around and fewer that are actually broken in. Might be some Japanese press on it that I'm not aware of.

[Alpinist]

Can anyone explain the differences to me?

Retail on a K-01x is $21,000. K-01's are going for $7800-$9000 on Audiogon. Is there that much of a difference?

From the Esoteric website, it says:

"Four years after the release of the K-01—the world’s leading all-in-one digital player—the new K-01X debuts as a more compact version of Esoteric’s flagship Grandioso model. Utilizing the same type of highly rigid chassis construction as the Grandioso and a similar four-transformer power supply, it integrates the Grandioso P1’s high-precision VRDS-NEO “VMK-3.5-20S” turntable with two independent monaural DAC units derived from the Grandioso D1 design, each configured with a parallel array of 8 individual converters, which are summed to optimize linearity and minimize noise.
Electronic circuitry has also been further improved with the latest technologies, including a new AK4495S DAC IC, an advanced 35-bit D/A processing algorithm, an HCLD buffer amp, a DSD-compatible USB interface, and a large, low phase noise clock, all ensuring the K-01X achieves the absolute pinnacle of sound quality."

Hi Mike,

I think the second paragraph highlights the key differences, mainly DSD capability, 384khz PCM and 35 bit processing vs. 32 bit on the K-01. I read some initial feedback that said the K-01X sounded slightly better than the K-01, although the unit wasn't fully broken in yet.

Ken

[justubes]

Owned and have current one, k01 is a steal, as good as it gets.

Detail, bass, highs are just as good, differences in room, setup probably make a bigger difference.

I just wanted the latest.

Yes, new dacs and output stage do contribute to smoother and more natural sound. If you never heard, not to mention compared side to side, you wouldnt probably notice.

I used the same filter settings as before, hmmm good and couldnt recall that big of a difference.


The most and very significant difference is the new 8x filter, previously up to 4x on the old series. A world o difference in naturalness, going back to 4x is uacceptable.

I would consider a new k03x over a used k01 for this very reason.

A cooparision of the k03x and old k01 would be more interestig.

The k03x should represent a bargain in terms of overall improvements and features.

[justubes]

Owned and have current one, k01 is a steal, as good as it gets.

Detail, bass, highs are just as good, differences in room, setup probably make a bigger difference.

I just wanted the latest.

Yes, new dacs and output stage do contribute to smoother and more natural sound. If you never heard, not to mention compared side to side, you wouldnt probably notice.

I used the same filter settings as before, hmmm good and couldnt recall that big of a difference.


The most and very significant difference is the new 8x filter, previously up to 4x on the old series. A world o difference in naturalness, going back to 4x is uacceptable.

I would consider a new k03x over a used k01 for this very reason.

A comparision of the k03x and old k01 would be more interestig.

The k03x should represent a bargain in terms of overall improvements and features.

[laurent.maury]

All,
just wanted to share my experience here. My new K-01X arrived at my place 12 days ago. I had previously a K-03. I also own a G-02 (Esoteric external 10 MHz clock). It took more than 1 week to my K-01X to sound almost correctly. It's interesting to note that I did already switch to 3 different filter settings to get the best possible sound. I know it will take my unit more a few weeks more to deliver the amazing sound experience I know it can deliver.

[David Garretson]

Laurent, what are your impressions of the K-01X with the G-02? I have a K-01X on order and am considering a Stanford Research Systems 10Mhz master clock. From web surfing I gather that the G-01 has a SRS core.

I just joined this forum and apologize for the sparseness of my profile. How does one attach an equipment list to the message footer?

[bzr]

Laurent, what are your impressions of the K-01X with the G-02? I have a K-01X on order and am considering a Stanford Research Systems 10Mhz master clock. From web surfing I gather that the G-01 has a SRS core.

I just joined this forum and apologize for the sparseness of my profile. How does one attach an equipment list to the message footer?

Click on settings top right, then on left you will see edit signature....

[Paul]

Click on settings top right, then on left you will see edit signature....

You make me keep click on your Avatar ....sigh....

[allvinyl]

Welcome Laurent. I am curious as to what kind of music you typically listen to through the Duevel speakers. I'm intrigued by them but have never been able to audition them. Thanks.

John

[laurent.maury]

Hello John,

well, I realy love the ambiance of a concert, classical or jazz. The Duevels sound "almost" like a live performance. I love classical music and I have in my place tons of great CD / SACD recordings. But I also like electro / pop music. When I'm writing these lines, I'm actually listening to Polyamour from Clara Moto (electro, issued in 2012). My K-01X, coupled with a G-02 sounds great today. I have to say that I’m testing a new power cable from Furutech on the 01X: the Nano Flux. I don’t know if Furutech will finally decide to produce more than 200 units of this cable or if it will inaugurate a brand new line of power cables but trust me, it sounds really good.

I’m also using my K-01X as well as my DA468 (standalone dac) to listen to some HD files I’ve downloaded form Qubuz. But I must confess that I like to take a CD/SACD in my hand and put it on my player. That’s a sensation I’m not ready to get rid of.

The Duevel are more interesting with acoustical / live music than with electronic drums / synthesizers and very deep basses. This is probably due to their omni directional setting.
Before the Duevel, just for you to know, I owned LeedH E speakers. But in the high medium as well as in the bass registers, they suffer a lack of presence.

[justubes]

Hi Laurent,

What frequence is the G02 feeding you k01x, the 10mhz or 22mhz?

The 22mhz gives requires the clock input of the k01x to be set at masterclk. Wonder if you found this to be the best setting.

[laurent.maury]

Hello,

this is a very good question. I spent a lot of time reading and reading again the owner's manual of both the K-01X and the G-02. Unfortunately, I must confess that I haven't found any clear recommendation about the ideal clock settings between the player and the G-02.

I'm using the 10MHz. Do you think the 22 would be better?

Laurent MAURY

[justubes]

10m is still under the wordclock selection in the k01x menu. 22m will require selecting mclk, which is masterclock. Interestingly, it looks that may be better, masterclock over wordclock.

Interested in your opion, as i myself have a 10m clock, but cant use masterclock option as i dont have 22m to play with.

[David Garretson]

10m is still under the wordclock selection in the k01x menu. 22m will require selecting mclk, which is masterclock. Interestingly, it looks that may be better, masterclock over wordclock.

Interested in your opion, as i myself have a 10m clock, but cant use masterclock option as i dont have 22m to play with.

Depending on who's talking in the Audio and Pro communities, the terms master clock and word clock are sometimes used interchangeably. Nonetheless, the 10Mhz frequency in rubidium clocks seems always to be used as a "master" or "reference" for other clocks. Could it be used otherwise? I suppose Esoteric classifying it as a word clock on the K-01 menu is unrelated.

It's also puzzling that there are discrepancies in the G01 and K01 specs regarding matching impedances between these units. One says 75 ohms and the other says 50.

[Mike]

Welcome to Audioshark David!
The K-01x is on my radar.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[David Garretson]

Thanks, Mike! I can't seem to get my system list entered within the Signature section. I filled in the box and hit the Save Signature button, but a subsequent return to the Edit Signature box always finds a blank box. Anyway, the system is:

Digital: Esoteric K-01X; battery-powered dual-mono Twisted Pear Buffalo IIISE DAC with Audio Consulting Silver Rock transformer output: battery-power Sony SCD-1 transport. Analog: Kenwood L07D; Technics SP-10 MkII; modified Trans-Fi Terminator; Micro Seiki MA-505; Technics EPA-100; Ortofon MC2000; AT ART7; Grace F9 w/Soundsmith OCL; Stanton 981LZS; Denon DL-S1; Precept PC550ML; Sonus Blue/Gold; Preamps: modified AtmaSphere MP-1 MkII.2; Pass Labs XP-25; modified ARC PH-2. Amps: Pass XA-160.8, modified BAT VK-75SE. Speakers: modified Merlin VSM-MX with ClarityCap MR & Duelund Res & wire, custom BBAM; modified Velodyne DD-15. Power: Signal balanced DU-5; Wires: speaker/custom 1.5 lbs. silver foil; IC/ Connex-DH Labs BL-Ag; AC/ Furutech Alpha-3. Tweaks: Star Sound SP-1 & Apprentice platforms, Stillpoints Ultra 5, Ultra SS & Minis; Schumann resonators.

[Mike]

Thanks, Mike! I can't seem to get my system list entered within the Signature section. I filled in the box and hit the Save Signature button, but a subsequent return to the Edit Signature box always finds a blank box. Anyway, the system is:

Digital: Esoteric K-01X; battery-powered dual-mono Twisted Pear Buffalo IIISE DAC with Audio Consulting Silver Rock transformer output: battery-power Sony SCD-1 transport. Analog: Kenwood L07D; Technics SP-10 MkII; modified Trans-Fi Terminator; Micro Seiki MA-505; Technics EPA-100; Ortofon MC2000; AT ART7; Grace F9 w/Soundsmith OCL; Stanton 981LZS; Denon DL-S1; Precept PC550ML; Sonus Blue/Gold; Preamps: modified AtmaSphere MP-1 MkII.2; Pass Labs XP-25; modified ARC PH-2. Amps: Pass XA-160.8, modified BAT VK-75SE. Speakers: modified Merlin VSM-MX with ClarityCap MR & Duelund Res & wire, custom BBAM; modified Velodyne DD-15. Power: Signal balanced DU-5; Wires: speaker/custom 1.5 lbs. silver foil; IC/ Connex-DH Labs BL-Ag; AC/ Furutech Alpha-3. Tweaks: Star Sound SP-1 & Apprentice platforms, Stillpoints Ultra 5, Ultra SS & Minis; Schumann resonators.

OK, let me see what I can do from my end.

[Mike]

Try it now.

[David Garretson]

Okay. Let's see:

[Mike]

Looks good from here! Hopefully you can now edit/save it the way you want.

[David Garretson]

Thanks. I just tried to add back the bold face and am unsuccessful. But I think I see the problem-- it's over the 500 character max. So if you can't raise the max, then next time I'll trim it down.

[Mike]

Thanks. I just tried to add back the bold face and am unsuccessful. But I think I see the problem-- it's over the 500 character max. So if you can't raise the max, then next time I'll trim it down.

Yes. That's it.

[justubes]

Depending on who's talking in the Audio and Pro communities, the terms master clock and word clock are sometimes used interchangeably. Nonetheless, the 10Mhz frequency in rubidium clocks seems always to be used as a "master" or "reference" for other clocks. Could it be used otherwise? I suppose Esoteric classifying it as a word clock on the K-01 menu is unrelated.

So what is the definitive description of word and master clocks.

I understand that master replaces the clocking unit and word will sync or slave the units clock to the reference.

The fact is that the esoteric has an internal oscillator running at 22.5792 Mhz. As such, i see it that a master will replace the clock directly i.e at 22.5792 mhz and any other frequencies accepted as word clock.

So presumably, it should be the mist direct and best result that can be obtained.

[Mike]

I've been told the SRS PERF-10 clock (at a fraction of the cost of the Esoteric clock) is just as good (and the same thing).

Thoughts?

[Alpinist]

I've been told the SRS PERF-10 clock (at a fraction of the cost of the Esoteric clock) is just as good (and the same thing).

Thoughts?

I have to be honest, Mike. This thing with the clock confuses the heck out of me. What I still don't understand is if you get the SRS PERF-10 clock, does it generate all the necessary frequencies (44, 88, 176, 48, 96, 192 kHz) for high res. listening or do you need another frequency generator to go with it? The G-01 and G-02 seem to contain this all in one box.

Best,
Ken

[David Garretson]

Justubes, as Mike suggests, the G-01 uses a Stanford Research Systems PRS-10 10 Mhz rubidium core as the reference or master clock. I don't know how the 22.5792 Mhz frequency is derived in this application, but it is hard to believe that the 22.5792 source would not be timed by the 10 Mhz rubidium core. A rubidium clock is more accurate than any standalone 22.5792 Mhz conventional crystal. Typically when speaking of a Word Clock, the implication is of some multiple of 44.1kHz and 48kHz. I know of no other instance in which a 10 Mhz rubidium clock has been called a word clock. So there is still a mystery here to be cleared up.

The SRS-PRS10 core can be had as finished goods inside the SRS PERF-10(75 ohm BNC outputs) or the SRS FS725(50 ohm BNC outputs). I'm unsure which impedance is more appropriate to match an Esoteric CDP, as some Esoteric literature broadly specifies 50-75 ohms.

Both clocks include an integrated low noise SMPS. The PERF-10 has an optional port for an external 12V/5A linear power supply. I'm thinking that to approach G-01 performance might require a linear PS on the high order of quality of Paul Hynes or HD Plex. I have one currently on order from Paul for this purpose. For the FS725 it would be a relatively simple job to get inside the enclosure and install a power port to an external supply. In that event the PS would need to be 24Vdc/3A.

The SRS alternative doesn't have all the features of the G0-1, but its 10MHz output might be sufficient for K-01X.

[Mike]

Thanks David. Brilliant explanation.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[laurent.maury]

All,

thanks to this forum and to your advices, I tested the 22,2Mhz configuration between the K-01X and the G-02. Guys, don't hesitate anymore: move to the "whatever"clock they name the 22,2 setting! It's instantly gave us (my wife and me) a feeling of "precision" and speed.
Many thanks for your comments.
Lo

[Audioseduction]

Justubes, as Mike suggests, the G-01 uses a Stanford Research Systems PRS-10 10 Mhz rubidium core as the reference or master clock. I don't know how the 22.5792 Mhz frequency is derived in this application, but it is hard to believe that the 22.5792 source would not be timed by the 10 Mhz rubidium core. A rubidium clock is more accurate than any standalone 22.5792 Mhz conventional crystal. Typically when speaking of a Word Clock, the implication is of some multiple of 44.1kHz and 48kHz. I know of no other instance in which a 10 Mhz rubidium clock has been called a word clock. So there is still a mystery here to be cleared up.

The SRS-PRS10 core can be had as finished goods inside the SRS PERF-10(75 ohm BNC outputs) or the SRS FS725(50 ohm BNC outputs). I'm unsure which impedance is more appropriate to match an Esoteric CDP, as some Esoteric literature broadly specifies 50-75 ohms.

Both clocks include an integrated low noise SMPS. The PERF-10 has an optional port for an external 12V/5A linear power supply. I'm thinking that to approach G-01 performance might require a linear PS on the high order of quality of Paul Hynes or HD Plex. I have one currently on order from Paul for this purpose. For the FS725 it would be a relatively simple job to get inside the enclosure and install a power port to an external supply. In that event the PS would need to be 24Vdc/3A.

The SRS alternative doesn't have all the features of the G0-1, but its 10MHz output might be sufficient for K-01X.

I would go with the optional external LPS, I just ordered a UpTone JS-2 LPS for my CAPS server.

[justubes]

All,

thanks to this forum and to your advices, I tested the 22,2Mhz configuration between the K-01X and the G-02. Guys, don't hesitate anymore: move to the "whatever"clock they name the 22,2 setting! It's instantly gave us (my wife and me) a feeling of "precision" and speed.
Many thanks for your comments.
Lo

That's great nees.

So choosing the master 22m over the 10m made another big improvement!

Its probably directly replacing the oscillator in your unit and not doing something more complex and causing less effectiveness.

Was the difference as big as adding the G02 with your old setting at 10m?

[justubes]

Laurent,

Hell, you may as well also try the 24. mhz setting.

It may well be that the highest frequencies may provide something special.

[Audio8]

I am almost through burning in the K01X. It is significantly better than the K-01. More refined for sure, quieter, faster transients, more detailed--simply stunning. I am amazed how good it sounds. I know there are those who say that there is not that much sonic improvement from the 1 to the X, but I would suggest that their systems are just not up to being able to reproduce the difference.

[joeinid]

Welcome to the forum audio8! Thank you for joining.

[Alpinist]

I am almost through burning in the K01X. It is significantly better than the K-01. More refined for sure, quieter, faster transients, more detailed--simply stunning. I am amazed how good it sounds. I know there are those who say that there is not that much sonic improvement from the 1 to the X, but I would suggest that their systems are just not up to being able to reproduce the difference.

Hi Audio8,

Welcome to Audio Shark and congrats on the K-01X! Did you previously have the K-01 in your system before the K-01X and were you able to compare them head to head on the same equipment? Could you describe your system?

Thanks,
Ken

[Ritmo]

Welcome A8! Glad you are enjoying the K-01X.

[Mike]

I am almost through burning in the K01X. It is significantly better than the K-01. More refined for sure, quieter, faster transients, more detailed--simply stunning. I am amazed how good it sounds. I know there are those who say that there is not that much sonic improvement from the 1 to the X, but I would suggest that their systems are just not up to being able to reproduce the difference.

Congrats Audio8!

Man, I've got to stop reading this thread. I want a K-01x baaaaad!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[socfan12]

Welcome to AS, Audio8! Great feedback to hear!

[Audio8]

Thanks for the kind welcomes. Yes, I had the K-01 previously. I know it very well and am very familiar how it sounds. I am really just discovering today how good the X is as I have not really listened during the burn in process. I have not had a chance to try DSD files yet. Although I have a bunch of them, the X uses different drivers than does the 1 and I have to download them.

Not including video, I have all Esoteric electronics, YG Kipod II Signature speakers, Hifidelit music server with Paul Pang parts, Synergistic Research cables and power products, a pair of JL subs. That is just the quick description. My system is exceeding complex. For example, I have four speaker cables going into each speaker, multiple daisy-chained power conditioners, DSPearker sub correction unots, custo poe supplies for the DSPeaker units, Synergistic HFTs, FEQs, Acoustic Art, Enigma tube power supply and on and on. New racks coming on March 14!!!

I would also state that used, the K-01 is a great bargain. Thanks again for the welcome.

[Alpinist]

Thanks for the kind welcomes. Yes, I had the K-01 previously. I know it very well and am very familiar how it sounds. I am really just discovering today how good the X is as I have not really listened during the burn in process. I have not had a chance to try DSD files yet. Although I have a bunch of them, the X uses different drivers than does the 1 and I have to download them.

Not including video, I have all Esoteric electronics, YG Kipod II Signature speakers, Hifidelit music server with Paul Pang parts, Synergistic Research cables and power products, a pair of JL subs. That is just the quick description. My system is exceedingly complex. For example, I have four speaker cables going into each speaker, multiple daisy-chained power conditioners, DSPearker sub correction unots, custo poe supplies for the DSPeaker units, Synergistic HFTs, FEQs, Acoustic Art, Enigma tube power supply and on and on. New racks coming on March 14!!!

I would also state that used, the K-01 is a great bargain. Thanks again for the welcome.

Thanks Audio8 for that information. You have a really fine system. The reason I asked is because I'm currently running the Esoteric K-01, Soulution 520 preamp, Soulution 501 mono amps and Raidho D3 speakers. I've been hoping to hear a review of the K-01X from someone who has previously had a K-01 in their system. The K-01X sounds like a worthwhile upgrade with some material improvements in sound quality. Maybe at some point in the future for me.

Thanks again,
Ken

[Audio8]

Thanks Audio8 for that information. You have a really fine system. The reason I asked is because I'm currently running the Esoteric K-01, Soulution 520 preamp, Soulution 501 mono amps and Raidho D3 speakers. I've been hoping to hear a review of the K-01X from someone who has previously had a K-01 in their system. The K-01X sounds like a worthwhile upgrade with some material improvements in sound quality. Maybe at some point in the future for me.

Thanks again,
Ken

Ken, you have a very fine system as well. I think that you will definitely appreciate the difference. In my system, the difference was not subtle. I have been listening this evening, and I was all smiles. So quiet, so real, so much more refined. Maybe because I was expecting a very subtle improvement from reading the forums and got much more than that. What are you using for cables and power BTW?

[Alpinist]

Ken, you have a very fine system as well. I think that you will definitely appreciate the difference. In my system, the difference was not subtle. I have been listening this evening, and I was all smiles. So quiet, so real, so much more refined. Maybe because I was expecting a very subtle improvement from reading the forums and got much more than that. What are you using for cables and power BTW?

Thanks Audio8!

Cables are still under construction but when they're finished, ICs and SCs will all be Kimber Select and power cords will all be Audience AU-24SE. I also currently have the Audience AR6-TSS power conditioner and WW Platinum 7 USB cable, both of which I really like.

Ken

[Audio8]

Great! Let me know how it goes please. I probably have another 100 hours on the K-01X to let it really reach its peak. Will let you know. After the new racks, my next step is a clock.

[Alpinist]

Great! Let me know how it goes please. I probably have another 100 hours on the K-01X to let it really reach its peak. Will let you know. After the new racks, my next step is a clock.

Terrific! G-01 or G-02?

[Audio8]

Stanford Research Perf 10.

[Alpinist]

Stanford Research Perf 10.

I've heard this uses the same rubidium oscillator as the Esoteric G-01. Do you just connect the Stanford Research Perf 10 to your K-01/K-01X via a BNC cable to one of its 10 MHz outputs or do you need additional hardware to make it work?

Thanks,
Ken

[Audio8]

I've heard this uses the same rubidium oscillator as the Esoteric G-01. Do you just connect the Stanford Research Perf 10 to your K-01/K-01X via a BNC cable to one of its 10 MHz outputs or do you need additional hardware to make it work?

Thanks,
Ken

I believe you can connect it with nothing additional required. But, I am not 100% certain. Yes, you use a BNC cable. I am going to give SR a call, probably in a few months from now and see. I don't think the G-02 would add much to the X (or the 1 for that matter). I am sure the G0-1 is better for a variety of reasons, but for the money, seems like you cannot beat the Perf 10.

If I get the same level of improvement from the clock as I did with the X, I will be very happy.

[Alpinist]

I believe you can connect it with nothing additional required. But, I am not 100% certain. Yes, you use a BNC cable. I am going to give SR a call, probably in a few months from now and see. I don't think the G-02 would add much to the X (or the 1 for that matter). I am sure the G0-1 is better for a variety of reasons, but for the money, seems like you cannot beat the Perf 10.

If I get the same level of improvement from the clock as I did with the X, I will be very happy.

Hi Audio8,

Based on the conversations I've had with owners of the G-01, if the Stanford Research Perf. 10 delivers performance anywhere close to the G-01 (which I think it should because it has the same rubidium core oscillator), you will hear a substantial improvement in sound quality on your K-01X.

A gentleman on Audio Shark named Laurent states that even the G-02 makes a material difference with his K-01X:

"Back to fun: Regarding the K-01X + G-02... Yes, it's purely amazing how much better the K-01X sounds when synchronized with the G-02. I tested the G-02 first with a K-03X. To be honnest, I see very few differences between a K-03X + G-02 and a K-01X with no external clock. If I try to measure how much the G-02 improves the system, I would say the following:
1. K-03X = 1
2. K-03X + G-02 = 1.3
3. K-01X = 1.4
4. K-01X + G-02 = 1.7"

Best,
Ken