Esoteric announces new models N-05XE and S-05XE

[brodricj]

..Can someone tell me the sonic signature of these pieces compared to MSB?

Esoteric has been an evolution over time, earmarked by the change from AKM chips to FPGA running in-house software. Processing power of microchips has increased substantially, onboard clocks have been changed to discrete clocks, there have been mechanical changes (pin point feet, floating top), and the rest of it. Add to the mix external clocks and power supplies. It depends on where you exist in the considerable width of that continuum as to sonic signature because it varies. The only MSB I've heard is Select 2 with dual power base and Femto clock. In a different system to mine. I preferred the Grandioso D1X to the Select 2. And since then I've moved on to D1XSE which has got so much upgraded stuff in it it really flies in its own orbit. I'd like to compare it to Sentinel in my own system. I'm just waiting for it to become available and Mike to show some generosity.

 

[Mr Peabody]

I like my N05xd and was torn between it and MSB Discrete. I have a bad case of "what if". I bought the N05xd based on getting to try it in my system and price, once I added the needed USB unit and extra power supply the MSB package price got up there.

MSB is the least digital sounding digital playback I have personally experienced. I regret not being more persistent in trying to get an in-home audition with the Discrete just to know I made the right choice for me. Usually at the show I hear the. entire MSB set up, it's like being in love with someone you know you can't have. I need to hear how the MSB does with other than show type music. I listen to a variety of music including Rock. I can say the N05xd provides the dynamics and detail of Rock without becoming offensive and that's even with neutral studio type speakers like mine. In the back of my mind I always wonder, what if.

 

[GSOphile]

I'd be surprised if they do. K-03XDSE already has the Master Sound Discrete Clock for Digital Player and upgraded DAC. There is more room to upgrade the K-05XD as it does not have the Master Sound Discrete Clock for Digital Player. Esoteric might prefer to sell new versions of these entry level models rather than VUK them to XE level.

Although the K-05XD does not have 'SE' tacked onto its model number, according to the Esoteric website this model DOES include the Master Sound Discrete Clock for Digital Player feature.