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Oppo Vs Esoteric

Folks,
I would like to acknowledge the fact that I have heard the Esoteric players at AXPONA and coupe of other places. But my question is how much better is a Esoteric K-07X or K-05X compared to the Oppo UDP-205? I know that the Oppo UDP-205 is a killer machine for $1300. But it is a Jack Of All Trades, while the Esoteric is (soft of) Master Of One. So in that sense, can anyone let me know if it is really worth spending $$$$$ on the Esoteric (or a Marantz SA-10 or Luxman) compared to the Oppo?
Please share your experiences if you have compared the Oppo UDP-205 to any high end CD/SACD player.
Thanks!
128x128milpai
gdhal's avatar
gdhal
1,641 posts
 
@boneman73

'Brick Wall' is not the default filter. Mini Phase Fast is. If you have "settled" on brick wall that would be peculiar as that particular filter, unlike the other 6, is primarily a diagnostic use only setting.
oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,887 posts
 
I have an OPPO 103D and it's a great machine for the money....  but it's no Esoteric...   not even close.   
mahler123
3,359 posts
 
OP asked how a Oppo as a transport into a Bryston BDA 3 compared to a Luxman or a Marantz.  I can't answer about a Luxman, but I can say the Bryston is preferable in my book to every Marantz player that I have ever heard, especially the 805
calvinj
2,334 posts
 
Oppo ppl make a great machine but the other brands you mention are leagues ahead of it.  Esoteric, Luxman, Bryston.  I had a parasound cd1 and it ran circles around any oppo machine. Oppo is good for the price but the other stuff is next level. I use the Resonessence Mirus Pro Dac which is the high end Dac of the brother of the guy who makes the oppo. It's a great Dac one of the best I have ever heard!
gdhal's avatar
gdhal
1,641 posts
 
Oppo ppl make a great machine but the other brands you mention are leagues ahead of it. Esoteric, Luxman, Bryston.


And how about for video?

I feel the need to repeat myself. The Oppo UDP-205 is an **absolutely essential** piece of gear in any serious A/V system, regardless of how much better any other brand is (from a CD/SACD only perspective and in keeping with the thread/OP question). My suggestion, buy both, a UDP-205 and whatever else.
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