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Is my Esoteric DV-50S a keeper?

Just wanting to share my thoughts to my audiogon members. I'm thinking about selling my DV-50S player to purchase a Power conditioner(which I don't have) and another CD player for the same amount of money I get from the Esoteric (around 3,000 bucks). Currently I'm using the Esoteric for CD/SACD only, no video at all. My system currently consists of ....

Esoteric DV-50S
Pass Labs X150.5 amp
Pass Aleph P pre-amp
Audes Blues Speakers
Analysis Plus interconnects and speaker cables
NO power Conditioning
2 20A dedicated circuits with oyaide SWO XXX outlets

So my question is can I get another CD player that will compare in sound with my current player and also purchase a Power conditioner for the money I get from the Esoteric DV-50S. Just wanted to add I'm very happy with my current system. Money is very tight right now. I thought a power conditioner was important to protect my system. I was leaning towards Audio Magic conditioners. (suggestions anyone?) Now for the CD/SACD player. Basically one with comparable sound as the Esoteric.
Thanks Ziggy
ziggy333a
jim_swantko
301 posts
 
Keep the DV-50.

I replaced a Unidisk 1.1 which was MUCH more expensive with one and it more than holds it own against it.

My plan is to eventually mod the DV-50 - but right now I'm very happy with it bone stock.
sdatch
204 posts
 
Keep the Esoteric, and save for a power conditioner down the road. The Esoteric has a lot of good things going for it - obviously the sound quality, but also the fact that they built their own transport, not a potentially flawed off the shelf OEM unit, they are reliable (see threads about sertain other SACD players), and Esoteric is a division of TEAC, which means they'll probably still be around 5 years from now if you need a part, or want to upgrade within the line. Wen you find something that combines usability, true high-end sound, and reliability in this hobby, cling to it like grim death to paraphrase Seinfeld.
jp1208
502 posts
 
Upgrade the DV50 and you won't have to think about another player period. You will be very hard pressed to find a stock player that will better it.
arftech's avatar
arftech
13 posts
 
Keep your DV50.  Great sounding player that I put back into my system after a few years of loaning it out to a friend.  My PS Audio Transport don’t sound as good as the DV50.  
Is there better out there?  Yes but it’ll cost me.  
Writing this response  14 years later.😂
vegasears
1,173 posts
 
I have the original DV-50 and won't sell it.  I tried to replace it once and got an Esoteric D-7 DAC.  It's super nice but the old 50 has a warmer presentation.  I also use it for Concert DVD's. It has the best picture I've ever seen. 
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