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My thoughts on my new Esoteric k03xd CD player.

Disclosure: I’m not associated with Esoteric in anyway, nor am I a dealer trying to promote this product.

Fluid without any edge or hardness is how I would describe this player right out of the box.
It’s a front row presentation without an in your face feel. Images are clearly defined with extension of all frequencies that keep everything in balance with one another. This player is replacing a Luxman d08u and is clearly superior to it in every way. It breathes life into every CD played. For those who say CD’s sound like S... haven’t heard what the latest from Esoteric has to say about that! 

hiendmmoe
thyname's avatar
thyname
3,107 posts
 
For the Esoteric aficionados:

Is the DAC section (via USB and Transport) on K-03xd the same with K-01XD?

The network DAC, the N-01xd intrigues me more. No transport, but network included built in for streaming (Roon Ready too). However, I cannot seem to figure out the following for the N-01XD:

1 - Is it the same DAC as in K-01xd?

2 - Who makes the network bridge / card that is inside?

Anyone knows? Thanks!
thyname's avatar
thyname
3,107 posts
 
riaa_award_collectors_on_facebook550 posts07-17-2020 6:36pmHere's a review of the K-01XD on Dagogo

@riaa : what did you end up getting? I see you had the Luxman D-u8 up for sale here.

I spoke with a dealer over the weekend who has both Luxman and Esoteric lines. According to him, the Luxman D-10X is better than Esoteric K-01xd in every single aspect. He told me "hands down", him and his customers who listened to them both in his showroom.

And the K01xd is Esoteric flagship, priced at $23,000 (vs. $16,500 on Luxman D-10x).

I have no idea whether he was BS-ing me. Just sharing what I heard.
ebm
9,311 posts
 
Just ordered ESOTERIC K03Xd had K01xs I'm sure it will be much better not interested in Luxman as nobody builds a player like ESOTERIC.
rsf507
2,347 posts
 
They sure build them nice but just sooooo unmusical (sterile sounding) I know I owned one.
ebm
9,311 posts
 
You no nothing rsf507 what do you have now that is better.HELLO!!!!!!
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