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For SACD fans only

Want to upgrade my SACD playback, currently have Oppo 105-D, which has been fine, but the weak link in my setup. I have a Hegel H390, Raidho XT-2’s and Ansuz cabling throughout, including the DTC distribution box. Currently love the system synergy, sound and setup, but want to upgrade.

So my question for the forum is-- I have narrowed it down to a couple of options and would like to hear thoughts...

1- PS Audio Perfectwave SACD transport, which is now on sale for $4000, and a DAC. I could wait for PS Audio’s forthcoming new Directstream DAC, which they say will utilize the same galvanic isolation in their Perfectwave transport. The reason for the match is the I2S connection, which can deliver "pure" DSD. I believe that a Sony chip is necessary. Another DAC option is to go with a Holo Audio May KTE DAC for around $5000. It has the I2S input, but I don’t believe it will play the "pure" DSD layer.

2- Esoteric K-05XD or Esoteric K-07XD SACD player. Two players not currently available but will be in the next month or 2, for I believe $8500 and $7500 respectively. Esoteric has confirmed to me that they will be available shortly. The nice thing here is that you get 2-in-1, both a high-end transport (one could argue the best available transport at any price) and also a fantastic DAC. I have read reviews of the Esoteric K-03XD, which is available and has the "Master Sound Discrete" DAC. The K-05XD and K-07XD will also use the "Master Sound Discrete" DAC-- reviews are that this is a big step up from previous Esoteric models, and sound fantastic. They have a USB input and other digital inputs, so you can utilize the internal DAC if I should use a server or go the streaming route-- or both.

Currently don’t use a server or streamer, but both options give me that flexibility. One box or 2 boxes? (Holo May DAC would make it 3 boxes!)

Won’t be able to audition unless I buy both and then return one.

Thoughts? Thanks


fred60
hz79hc's avatar
hz79hc
24 posts
 
@fred60  No matter what you do, I recommend getting a Sony UBP-X800M2 (or similar) for $250 or thereabouts.  This way you have something to fall back on the next you might need it...

Plus, if you buy the Sony first you have something that a high-priced player needs to best or else it goes back to the shop.

I'm not sure your age, but I saw at least one post suggesting you wouldn't be able to hear the difference.  I'm 66 and my hearing is nowhere near what it once was.  In other words, this Sony's output quality exceeds my hearing capabilities.

Why not try a Sony (or comparable) and buy yourself a piece or two of vintage equipment just for fun.  Like a reel to reel?  Or a sweet turntable and cartridge?  Or that tube preamp you probably want?

Whatever you do, enjoy it!
Regards,
Warren

dchang05
61 posts
 
I replaced my Oppo205 with PSA SACD transport and could not be happier. When pairing with PSA Directstream DAC using I2S connection they are hard to beat. The Mk2 of DS DAC supposedly comes out soon and it should be even better. 
alberto4321
27 posts
 
I bought my first SACD player earlier this summer. It was the Marantz 30N. I really love it and started to build my SACD collection.  I also use its built in streamer and internal DAC. Since I recently upgraded my pre/power amps, I also want to upgrade to a separate streamer and a dedicated SACD player. 
I already ordered the auralic altair g2.1. Now I am shopping for a SACD player. Following this post   
ramon74
25 posts
 
Hi! I had a similar question and finally I decided on the Esoteric K03XD and I couldn’t be happier.
I was also able to try a master clock and where the improvement was most noticeable were with the SACD disks.
philgo01
72 posts
 
My concerns with I2S connection (via HDMI) are the pin-outs are not standardized AND I am not clear if it can transmit DSD signals to a I2S input of a DAC.  I've inquired with Denafrips' dealer on this  very issue and if my memory is correct, he is not aware if PSAudio I2S has worked with DSD to their DACs with I2S.  So.... caveat emptor !
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