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Opus 21 vs Esoteric X-3se

Has anyone heard these 2 players. Can the unmodded Opus compete. The Esoteric is 2x the price, I am assuming the GNSC modded Opus will compete favorably. How do the 2 differ in their sound. I have noticed with my Esoteric that it does not do poor recording any favors. Musical and very detailed sound. Works well with tube amps,IMHO.
Any thoughts appreciated.
Thanks
Mike
128x128brm1
audiofan12
12 posts
 
I am also in the Opus 21 camp. I thought the Opus was warmer and more musical than the Esoteric but with an ability to unravel a complex recording which improved my enjoyment of the performance. The Esoteric had slightly more detail but ultimately was too clinical and a touch bright for my tastes. I did not notice much difference in dynamics as I thought both were excellent.
brm1's avatar
brm1 OP
108 posts
 
Audiofan12
Is your Opus stock or modded? Is the stock model worth owning, or do I have to go all the way to the GNSC model.
Thanks
Mike
jtwrace's avatar
jtwrace
443 posts
 
I own a stock Opus 21. I really like it. no complaints at all. BUT I will be trading it for a Mac Mini and a Wavelength USB DAC. Might want to look into that otherwise I will sell you my one yr old RA Opus 21.
audiofan12
12 posts
 
Mike,
The stock Opus 21 is excellent. I have not heard any better for anything near the price.
cmk
397 posts
 
Detail is always harder to get. Once you've lost it, there's no way to get it back further down the chain. I'd rather get the detail in, then tune the rest of the system, then lose it forever.
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