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SACD/CD Players
 
SA-50 X-05 K-03 K-01   RZ-1          
 
 
SA-50 SACD/CD Player, 32 Bit DAC,  USB/SPDIF, Preamp, Re-Clocker  $6000.
 
 
 
 
Reviews:

The new SA-50 is a:

Stand alone 32 bit dual mono D/A converter up to 882, 192 and even to DSD from S/PDIF, USB (Including PCM from a laptop) and optical inputs
Digital pre-amp with attenuator (can feed directly into a power amp)
32 bit CD/SACD player with PCM to DSD and DSD to PCM functionality
A re-clocker with second PLL for external digital devices (Plus master clock generator input for external clock)

VOSP Mechanism:

VOSP (Vertically-aligned Optical Stability Platform), features a specially designed shaft-mounted laser pickup assembly This pickup system evolved from Esoteric's P-01 and P-03 transports This pickup design ensures that the laser optical axis is always at the center of the data track for optimal reading capability With VOSP implementation, no off axis error correction is needed because no off axis data tracking is allowed

High mass / resonance-free mechanism stabilizer:

The VOSP mechanism is rigidly clamped by a steel plate and a large diameter stabilizer made of 8 mm-thick steel to reduce unwanted resonance caused by high speed disc rotation The entire mechanism assembly is directly mounted to the bottom chassis and two interior steel brackets rigidly hold the mechanism for superior anti-resonance properties

Full 32 bit processing D/A converter devices:

The SA-50 features the latest 32 bit processing "AK4392" advanced multi-bit DAC device produced by Asahi Kasei EMD The AK4392 has a highly precise D/A conversion capability with extended 32 bit processing throughout all output stages The 32 bit processor also has enough room for 24 bit or lower data flow, and greatly contributes to a "three-dimensional" audio imaging experience The SA-50 uses 1 chip per channel, in a dual mono configuration gaining maximum performance out of the 32 bit AK4392 With this implementation, high purity digital signals are converted to well defined, high-density analog signals

Highly advanced digital conversion capability:

DSD to 32 bit PCM conversion for SA-CD and PCM to DSD conversion for Redbook CD The SA-50 features user selectable digital signal conversion capability The highly advanced digital conversion functions of the SA-50 include 32 bit PCM processing to provide a wide range of options to match to your audio system, or, your general listening preferences based on your choice of software (1) The SA-50 can directly process native DSD signals into analog signals, and, can also convert the DSD signal into a 32 bit PCM signal Over sampling frequency is selectable from x2 (882 kHz) or x4 (1764 kHz) (2) PCM to DSD conversion capability for Redbook CD sources and for PCM signals input from external digital devices (3) PCM signals are processed with a high quality 32 bit digital filter to enhance natural reproduction capability Over sampling frequency is selectable from x2 (882 kHz) or x4 (1764 kHz) (4) 2 modes are selectable for PCM digital filter (FIR mode / Short delay mode)

High quality 2 channel dedicated analog audio output for precise imaging and deeper sound stage:

The analog audio output circuits are also in a dual mono configuration producing exceptionally good channel separation RCA (single-ended), output or XLR (fully-balanced), output is selectable During playback of the selected output mode, the analog signal path that is not used is completely de-activated This 2 channel dedicated circuit design further enhances precise imaging, transparency, separation and a deeper sound stage

High speed power supply capability:

The large custom designed toroidal core transformer, has a highly efficient power supply capability This provides electrical power to the drive mechanism and audio circuits very quickly, without adding noise or distortion to the signal path

Word synchronization:

The SA-50 features a WORD SYNC input terminal to accept an incoming external WORD clock signal The input can operate with 441 / 882 / 1764 / 100 kHz clock signals The unit can also operate using an ESOTERIC original 100 kHz Universal Clock signal (Single freq compatible w/ SACD/CD and DVD) The incoming ultra-stable clock signal produced by external components such as a master clock sync generator (ESOTERIC G-03X or G-0Rb), effectively upgrade the unit, delivering higher performance with better acoustic transparency, improved channel separation and a more detailed and wider sound stage

Dual PLL circuits reduce jitter when connected to a digital source device with no WORD SYNC function:

The SA-50 shares dual stage PLL jitter reduction with the ESOTERIC D-05 D/A converter, and is highly capable as a standalone D/A converter / re-clocker, when connected with CD transports, media servers, or other external digital devices The second stage PLL circuit has its own voltage controlled crystal clock, and re-clocks the signal produced by the first stage PLL circuit Dual PLL circuits, with two different characteristic responses in jitter reduction effectively purify the input digital signal, even when the unit is connected to a transport with no WORD SYNC function You can set this second stage PLL to off when the unit is connected to a transport which has a WORD SYNC input function

Highly rigid chassis construction:

The SA-50 front panel is made of thick extruded aluminum This helps to insure chassis rigidity, reducing unwanted vibrations and resonance, while also providing a stronger support structure for the center mounted VOSP mechanism The top and side panels are made of 5 mm thick aluminum The bottom chassis features a heavy duty 5 mm thick steel plate The toroidal transformer support base also features a 5 mm steel plate for added resonance absorption Combined with three pinpoint isolation feet made of quenched steel, this chassis design helps to isolate the unit from external vibrations, allowing highly stable and precise VOSP mechanism mounting, and highly-rigid, resonance-free system construction
Specs:
Compatible disc types: Super Audio CD, CD (CD-R/CD-RW compatible)  
     
Audio output (Analog Audio) Jack XLR jacks (2 channel) x1
RCA jacks (2 channel) x1		          
  Output impedance XLR: 100Ω
RCA: 47Ω		  
  Maximum Output level (1kHz, full scale, 10kΩ)                
XLR: 22Vrms
RCA: 22Vrms		  
  Frequency response 5Hz to 40kHz (SA-CD)
  Signal-to-Noise Ratio (S/N) 130dB  
  Total harmonic distortion 0001% (1kHz)  
       
Audio output (Digital Audio) Optical digital jack x1 15 to 21 dBm  
  Coaxial RCA jack x1 05 Vp-p/75Ω
       
Digital audio input Optical digital terminal x1 240 to 145 dBm peak
  Coaxial RCA terminal x 1 (Input impedance 75Ω)              05Vp-p
  USB port B connector USB 11 or higher  
       
Word Synchronization
input format		 Jack BNC  
  Input impedance 75Ω  
  Input level   Equivalent to TTL levels
     
  The SA-50 can accept and synchronize to the following frequencies received from external clock devices (rectangular wave): 441kHz, 882kHz, 1764kHz, 100kHz
       
General Power Supply AC 120V 60Hz  
  Power consumption 15W  
  External dimensions
(WxHxD)
 442 x 153 x 353 mm
(17 3/8 x 6 x 13 7/8 ")
(including protrusions)
  Weight 18kg (37 15/16 lb)  
       
  - Design and specifications are subject to change without notice
- Weight and dimensions are approximate
- Illustrations may differ slightly from production models
- Warranty 2 years parts and labor Can be extended to 3 years with warranty registration
The shape of the AC inlet and plug of the supplied power cord depends on the voltage rating and destination country
     
 
 
 
RZ-1 New! CD/SACD player/Integrated amp/phono stage/32 bit USB-SPDIF-optical input DAC - $6000.
 
 
 
Reviews:
January, 2011, RZ-1 Product of The Year 2010 The Absolute Sound
 
ESOTERIC SACD/CD transport, 32 bit DAC with multiple digital inputs for high resolution PC based streaming audio, phono-stage and master sound integrated amplification all functions enclosed in an elegant one-box solution

The streamlined aluminum front face matched with our low profile chassis beautifully expresses the RZ-1's sophisticated simplicity of operation The RZ-1 is highly functional yet simply designed delivering on the convergence of multiple media formats - SACD, CD, PC based audio streaming and vinyl LPs

The RZ-1 is a sophisticated, high end, integrated music system, made for people who simply love music
 
Features:
  • ESOTERIC SACD/CD slot loading transport mechanism
  • 32 bit DAC (AK4392) with 3 digital audio input connections
  • USB digital input with USB isolator helps to eliminate PC system noise
  • Accepts signals up to 24 bit/192 kHz via S/PDIF/coaxial & optical (TosLink)
  • User selectable 32 bit 8 x digital filters: FIR and short delay apodizing filter
  • ESOTERIC master sound power amplification system
  • Min output power: 100 watts per channel
  • Large toroidal, high capacitance analog power supply (Custom specification)
  • Analog input x 2 (Line 1 / Line 2)
  • Line 2 input can be switched to MM phonostage input
  • Tone control (Treble/Bass) and channel balance controls
  • Sleep-timer function
 
Specs:
Compatible disc types: Super Audio CD, CD  
     
Speaker output              
  Minimum output power 100 Watts per Channel  
  Minimum impedance                4 ohms  
  Frequency response 15 Hz to 65 kHz (+1/-3dB, 6 ohms)
  Signal-to-Noise Ratio (S/N) 105dB  
  Total harmonic distortion 003% (1kHz, 45W, 6 ohms, LPF20kHz)  
  Input sensitivity LINE : 46 mV  
  PHONO: 10 m  
       
Analog audio input      
  Terminal RCA x 2 sets  
  Input impedance LINE:  100 k ohms  
  PHONO: 47 k ohms  
  RIAA deviation (MM) 20Hz to 15kHz (±05 dB)  
       
Digital audio input Optical Toslink x1 (-240 to -145 dBm peak) 32 kHz to 192 kHz / 24 bit
  Coaxial RCA terminal x 1 (Input impedance 75Ω)             (> 02Vp-p / 75 ohms) 32 kHz to 192 kHz / 24 bit
  USB port B connector USB Type B x 1 (USB11 or higher) 32 kHz to 96 kHz /24 bit
       
General Power Supply AC 120V 60Hz  
  Power consumption 65 Watt (Stand-by mode: 04 Watt)  
  External dimensions
(WxHxD)		 (W x H x D) 400 mm x 77 mm x 368 mm
(15-3/4" x 3" x 14-1/2")
  Weight 9kg (20 lbs)  
  Accessories Remote control unit (RC-1156) x 1  
  - Design and specifications are subject to change without notice
- Weight and dimensions are approximate
- Illustrations may differ slightly from production models
- Warranty 2 years parts and labor Can be extended to 3 years with warranty registration
The shape of the AC inlet and plug of the supplied power cord depends on the voltage rating and destination country
 
 
 
X-05  SACD/CD 2 channel player VRDS-VMK5 (Absolute Sound Product of the Year 2009) $7000.
 
 
 
 
 
Reviews:
Awarded Product of The Year 2009 from The Absolute Sound ESOTERIC's X-05 SACD/CD disc player (Available in silver or black), is a recent addition to our highly acclaimed "X" series The X-05 includes Esoteric's new VRDS-Neo/VMK-5 transport mechanism This new transport expands the VRDS family and is optimized for high speed rotational requirements of SACD and CD The X-05 incorporates a newly developed, high precision aluminum turntable and a new drive mechanism for disc loading The development of X-05 technologies allows VRDS to be utilized by a wider audience of audiophiles!

Disc tray opening, clamping and closing is managed by a proprietary process know as "differential gearing" This system (Patent pending), enables exceptionally smooth disc loading through the seamless engagement of the tray and disc clamp gears during the entire loading sequence This reduces the number of parts required and adds to system longevity

The short spindle shaft design implemented in the X-05 contributes to very stable turntable rotation, reducing vibration and random movements associated with long shaft designs The spindle motor incorporates a frequency generation sensor enabling self detection of rotational speed Unlike conventional designs, this provides ultra fast motor response and optimal speed control capability

The X-05 uses Cirrus Logic's 24-bit/192 kHz processing DAC, model CS4398, in a dual mono configuration The analog audio output circuits are engineered in a dual mono configuration helping to produce superior channel separation This 2 channel dedicated circuit design contributes to precise imaging and a deeper sound stage for the X-05
 
 
 
K-03 (Super Audio CD, CD (CD-R/CD-RW compatible) USB Asynch 24/192 input - $13,000.
 
   
 
 
K-03 Product PDF
 
Reviews:

K-03 Wins 2011 Golden Ear Award from The Absolute Sound
 
ESOTERIC releases the K-01, the flagship model of our all-in-one advanced D/A converter and Super Audio CD/CD player series, capitalizing on ESOTERIC's state-of-the-art technology and derived from our award winning P-01/D-01 series separates It has been seven years since the debut of the original X-01, with its high-precision and high-rigidity VRDS-NEO SACD/CD transport mechanism The X-01/X-03 series, which have stayed at the top of ESOTERIC's all-in-one SACD/CD player lineup, have been completely updated and make their debut as the all-new "K" series in November 2010

The design concept of the K series is extremely clear and simple -- a 2-channel D/A converter and stereo player that gives a stress-free musical experience, without adding or removing anything from the original source material All aspects of the design and engineering process for the K series had extremely tough requirements to further advance ESOTERIC's top technology Design and engineering was completed applying all of ESOTERIC's know-how in mechatronics technology, state-of-the-art audio technology, and evolutionary materials including DAC implementation, for which cost was not a consideration The K series is committed to advancing the "state of the art" for the 2 channel audio purist, for both high resolution audio files and disc based audio playback applications

The K-03 is equipped with our new VRDS-NEO "VMK-35-10" mechanism, which has further advanced substantially beyond existing VRDS models, and a dual mono configuration of 32-bit monaural D/A converters with four parallel/differential DAC circuits per channel The analog audio circuit has a separate power transformer The on-board high-precision clocking circuit has also been advanced Three sets of 192 kHz/24-bit digital inputs supporting the most advanced high-sampling digital sources are also built-in USB driver software supports 192 kHz/24-bit asynchronous transmission for connecting with a PC

TRANSPORT MECHANISM:

ESOTERIC’s proprietary  VRDS-NEO transport mechanism uses a high-precision turntable for spinning Super Audio CD/CD discs, improving read precision by mechanically correcting for surface run-out

The K-03 uses an evolutionary version of the mechanism configuration adopted for the X-03SE SACD/CD player and now includes the VRDS-NEO “VMK-35-10” This new VRDS mechanism includes further refinements in the design of the driver circuit The all-new driver circuit specifically for SACDs and CDs, enables smooth, high-precision servo control A duralumin turntable with micron-level accuracy and a 10 mm steel turntable bridge are used, resulting in a total weight of 44 kg (97lbs)

Additionally, the proven features of the VRDS-NEO, such as the strong neodymium-magnet-driven coreless three-phase brushless spindle motor, the thread feed control, (which has evolved from the philosophy of the P-0), and the shaft-sliding type pickup, where the laser beam consistently illuminates the disk perpendicularly, are all inherited by the K-03

Dual mono D/A converters based on the philosophy of the K-01

The K-03’s D/A converter circuits are based on the circuitry of the ESOTERIC K-01, providing a parallel/differential output with four circuits per channel This achieves overwhelming linearity and an ultra low distortion factor

For the D/A converter device itself, ASAHI KASEI Microdevices Corporation’s top-end 32-bit AK4399 (*1) was adopted, after extended repetitive audio and system reliability auditions The 32-bit AKM D/A converters, with four circuits per channel, are mounted on a separate analog audio board for each of the left and right channels and configured for dual mono operation with the same layout for each of the two channels

The power supply has toroidal transformers specifically used for the analog audio circuits The transformers boast an ideal power supply capacity with a power supply that is separate from the transport power supply and excellent channel separation achieved through a power configuration separated into right and left channels, to enable high-quality playback with rich localization and sonic depth

High-quality discrete buffer circuit with a high voltage power supply

A discrete buffer output circuit with a high voltage power supply of +/- 22 V has been deployed for the analog audio output, following the technology used in the D-01 Full use is made of the exceedingly high drive capability and slew rate to provide a stress-free playback capability for various signals, from miniscule signals to high-power output These powerful discrete buffer output circuits are laid out symmetrically for each of the hot/cold signal lines to construct a rich and fully balanced configuration for XLR audio outputs Additionally, a parallel buffer output configuration is implemented to switch the buffer amplifier to a parallel configuration, when RCA audio outputs are used These enhancements provide advanced circuitry with the best sound quality for each of the balanced and unbalanced signal outputs


Wide variety of D/D conversion functions that support many source types

A wide variety of D/D conversion functions are implemented to match to your favorite source or to your personal sound quality preference These functions include a mode to convert DSD and PCM formats directly into analog signals, as well as PCM up-conversion to x 2 (64/882/96 kHz) or x 4 (128/1764/192 kHz), from the original sampling frequency, and even a PCM to DSD conversion function is available

1 PCM signals from CD and/or external digital devices:
    - Original Fs (32/441/48/882/96/1764/192 kHz)
    - x 2 (64/882/96 kHz) / x 4 (128/1764/192 kHz) up-conversion
    - PCM to DSD conversion
2 SACD DSD signals:
    - DSD native playback

Four types of digital filters and digital filter “Off” mode

The K-03 features four types of digital filters for PCM signal processing In addition to two types of FIR digital filters that have a reputation for outstanding sound quality, two types of short delay digital filters are featured These filters, often referred to as apodizing filters, eliminate the pre-echo and ringing effects in the impulse waveform to reproduce the audio signal as a more nature and precise sound, void of the artifacts often associated with CD recording The Digital Filter Off mode, which bypasses all 4 of the digital filters, is also provided You can select any of the digital filters or the off mode according to your preference

Three digital input systems to support a high sampling rate

Even when you use the K-03 as a discrete D/A converter for a high-sampling-rate source, the K-03 makes the most of the astonishing quality of its 32-bit dual mono D/A converters

The K-01 features three systems of input (USB, coaxial and optical), and these digital inputs support high-sampling-rate sources up to 24 bit/192 kHz

USB input supporting asynchronous transmission and 24 bit/192 kHz sources

High-sampling-rate sources of studio master quality can be input at their original resolution, by connecting the K-03 to your PC through a USB port To ensure a precise high-end design for the USB connection, ESOTERIC developed proprietary driver software (the driver software can be downloaded from the ESOTERIC web site) The USB input supports high-quality asynchronous transmission and the input of high-sampling-rate sources up to 24 bit / 192 kHz

Three transmission modes, including two types of high-speed transmission (including asynchronous transmission), and the standard full-speed mode, are also provided to enhance compatibility with a wide variety of PCs and operating systems Additionally, an Esoteric USB isolator, isolates the power and signal paths from the USB input system This isolator eliminates interference from external devices, including the PC, to clearly reproduce high-resolution music files without loss of fidelity * Note: Reproducible formats depend on the music player capabilities installed on the PC

High-quality discrete buffer circuit with a high voltage power supply

A discrete buffer output circuit with a high voltage power supply of +/- 22 V has been deployed for the analog audio output, following the technology used in the D-01 Full use is made of the exceedingly high drive capability and slew rate to provide a stress-free playback capability for various signals, from miniscule signals to high-power output These powerful discrete buffer output circuits are laid out symmetrically for each of the hot/cold signal lines to construct a rich and fully balanced configuration for XLR audio outputs Additionally, a parallel buffer output configuration is implemented to switch the buffer amplifier to a parallel configuration, when RCA audio outputs are used

These enhancements provide advanced circuitry with the best sound quality for each of the balanced and unbalanced signal outputs

The K-03 is a high performance model that follows the philosophy of the top-end all-in-one K-01 digital source, 2-channel playback device
Specs:
Compatible disc types: Super Audio CD, CD (CD-R/CD-RW compatible)  
     
Audio output (Analog Audio) Jack XLR jacks (2 channel) x1
RCA jacks (2 channel) x1		          
  Output impedance XLR: 100Ω
RCA: 47Ω		  
  Maximum Output level (1kHz, full scale, 10kΩ)                
XLR: 245Vrms
RCA: 224Vrms		  
  Frequency response 5Hz to 55kHz (SA-CD)
  Signal-to-Noise Ratio (S/N) 115dB  
  Total harmonic distortion 00015% (1kHz)  
       
Audio output (Digital Audio) Optical digital jack x1 15 to 21 dBm  
  Coaxial RCA jack x1 05 Vp-p/75Ω
       
Digital audio input Optical digital terminal x1 240 to 145 dBm peak
  Coaxial RCA terminal x 1 (Input impedance 75Ω)              05Vp-p
  USB port B connector USB 20 / 192 kHz-24 bit async  
       
Word Synchronization
input format		 Jack BNC  
  Input impedance 75Ω  
  Input level   Equivalent to TTL levels
     
  The SA-50 can accept and synchronize to the following frequencies received from external clock devices (rectangular wave): 441kHz, 882kHz, 1764kHz, 100kHz
       
General Power Supply AC 120V 60Hz  
  Power consumption 27W  
  External dimensions
(WxHxD)		 445 x 162 x 438 mm
(17 1/4" x 6 3/8" x 13 1/4")
  Weight 28kg (61 3/4 lbs)  
  Operating temperature                +5°C to +35°C  
  Operating humidity 5% to 85% (no condensation)
  Storage temperature +20°C to +55°C  
  Accesories Remote control unit (RC-1156) x 1  
  - Design and specifications are subject to change without notice
- Weight and dimensions are approximate
- Illustrations may differ slightly from production models
- Warranty 2 years parts and labor Can be extended to 3 years with warranty registration
The shape of the AC inlet and plug of the supplied power cord depends on the voltage rating and destination country
 
 
 
K-01 (Super Audio CD, CD (CD-R/CD-RW compatible) 8-DAC  USB Asynch 24/192 input, Advanced Clocking - $22,500.
 
 
 
K-01 Product PDF
 
ESOTERIC releases the K-01, the flagship model of our all-in-one advanced D/A converter and Super Audio CD/CD player series, capitalizing on ESOTERIC's state-of-the-art technology and derived from our award winning P-01/D-01 series separates It has been seven years since the debut of the original X-01, with its high-precision and high-rigidity VRDS-NEO SACD/CD transport mechanism The X-01/X-03 series, which have stayed at the top of ESOTERIC's all-in-one SACD/CD player lineup, have been completely updated and make their debut as the all-new "K" series in November 2010 The design concept of the K series is extremely clear and simple -- a 2-channel D/A converter and stereo player that gives a stress-free musical experience, without adding or removing anything from the original source material All aspects of the design and engineering process for the K series had extremely tough requirements to further advance ESOTERIC's top technology Design and engineering was completed applying all of ESOTERIC's know-how in mechatronics technology, state-of-the-art audio technology, and evolutionary materials including DAC implementation, for which cost was not a consideration The K series is committed to advancing the "state of the art" for the 2 channel audio purist, for both high resolution audio files and disc based audio playback applications

The K-01 is equipped with our new VRDS-NEO "VMK-35-20S" mechanism, which has advanced substantially beyond existing VRDS models The K-01 follows the philosophy of the D-01, and has two 32-bit monaural D/A converters with eight parallel/differential DAC circuits used per channel, as well as separate L/R power supplies The on-board, high-precision clocking circuit has also been advanced The power supply for each circuit block has been optimized by using four on-board power transformers Three sets of 192 kHz/24-bit digital inputs, supporting the most advanced high-sampling-rate digital sources are also built-in USB driver software supports 192 kHz/24-bit asynchronous transmission for connecting with a PC The K-01 responds to the stringent demands of music lovers and audio purists, for a top-of-the-line digital source, 2-channel playback device

D/A Converter K-01 32bit AK4399 x8 DACs / per channel
 
 
 
 

 
This may not be reprinted in whole or part without my express written permission 
 
Copyright: Kaplan Design