IMHO - what I know...what ever that means...
Esoteric has the best transport mechanism made thus far.
I read that Phillips has made great strides with a new mechanism of their own.
Esoteric does produce OEMs for DCS. It was speculated they were to renew producing OEMs to Wadia for 981 and 9 series when it mattered ...
Premier audio manufacturers use Esoteric VRDS Transports as a benchmark measure of the technology.
If I had the scratch - I would get a Esoteric Grandioso and pair it with a Lampizator Horizon.