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Unsatisfied with Esoteric K-01: Alternatives?

I lived many blissful years with my Reimyo CDP-777, but finally decided it was time to start the transition to PC audio. I opted for the Esoteric K01 in order to have the maximum playback flexibility with CD, SACD, and asynchronous USB DAC. Fast-forward about 6 months and I find myself really missing the warmth, tonal richness, and musicality of the Reimyo when listening to to the rather cold, dry, and neutral K01. It is not a bad player by any means, but I've just come to realize that I'm a musicality guy as opposed to an analytical guy.

Now I'm in a bit of a quandary in regards to how to maintain that flexibility with something more to my taste. Are there any CD/SACD/asynch USB players (or combos) that lean more to the Reimyo's sense of musicality? Harmonix's current line still doesn't do USB input, or decode any thing but PCM up to 44.1. I'm starting to to think my only option is to buy the Harmonix for CD playback and then have a completely separate system for SACD/PC audio playback, but I would love to avoid that if at all possible. Any suggestions are welcome.
no1willfan
rja's avatar
rja
2,371 posts
 
There's the newest EAR DAC, looks interesting.
And the Aesthetix DAC, also very musical.
jafant's avatar
jafant
19,737 posts
 
Hello guys-

so much good intel here. I am torn between a DV-50/60 or an X-03/X-03SE spinner. For those who want to comment on these (2) players, I will welcome your insight.

Keep me posted & Happy Listening!
guidocorona
4,298 posts
 
JAFont, X-03 and X-03 SE is a very slightly trickled-down implementation of the X-01 former flagship single box player.... The DV series was created for a lower end mid-tier market.... Yes, there is a noticeable sonic difference between the X series and the DV series.

If your budget can fit an X-03 or X-03SE player... Go for it!

G.
zephyr24069's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
zephyr24069
1,243 posts
 
Definitely agree here with Guido; if you can grab an X03, or better yet, the X01, you should go for it. The X03 is less analytical and much more musical than the DV50S (I never heard the SA60) for both CD and SA-CD. The X01 (having alot of DACs per side of the circuit) is even more so. I owned the UX-1Ltd as I needed video and it had 1/2 the number of DAC chips per side as the X01. Both were great units but the X01 was even more full bodied and musical. My advice, if you can get an X01, grab it in lieu of the X03 only because the X01 is even better. You won't go wrong if availability or price dictate an X03.
jafant's avatar
jafant
19,737 posts
 
Thank You! Guido and Zeohyr.
I will keep you guys posted on my decision.

The most important factor will be the available parts and transports for repair (as needed). It seems that there may not be any replacement parts for the DV and SA spinners?

Happy Listening!
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