Marantz SA-10 Vs Esoteric K-05Xs

Over the years, I auditioned an Esoteric DV-60. I did not enjoy the CD filters? The SACD playback was excellent. Cables and Cords were Wireworld Silver Electra 7 (PC) on the DV-60. Silent Source cables/cords on Pass Labs gear. TAD-1 loudspeakers.

Happy Listening!

I know this is an old thread but in case anyone is still comparing an Esoteric with Marantz. I have owned both brands, and I still have an Esoteric specificallly a UX-3SE. Any Marantz I tried in my home was stomped into the ground by my Esoteric and that includes a Marantz KI Ruby. And where did someone come up with Esoteric being unreliable? Marantz yes, Esoteric no. I had Marantz players have lasers fail after a few years and then have Marantz tell me that there are no laser assemblies made for that model anymore? After three years? Esoteric has a wonderful repair center in LA that can repair any Esoteric model. 
Pricey for Esoteric? Yes, but like a well built auto the Esoteric performs as designed, and does so for a long time.
No competiton - Esoteric is the way to go if one can afford it...

I've been using an Oppo BDP-95 for the past 10 years with CDs, SACD, Blu Ray audio and Blue Ray movies. But I've been looking to get a dedicated SACD/CD player.

A few models on my list are the Marantz SA-10, Esoteric K-07XS and K-05XS, Technics SL-G700.

The think I like about the Marantz and the newer Esoteric is that the will convert CD PCM to DSD.

 

What I'd like to know a bit more is the sound difference between the Matantz SA-10 and the Esoteric K-07XS or K-05XS, since they are all around the same price for pre-owned.

I have dropped the idea of a disc player. I am looking forward to getting a T+A DAC 200 soon. I am currently using the Oppo UDP-205 purely in DAC mode since July 2020, feeding DSD 256 though Foobar. I have heard that the T+A performs on a completely differently level using DSD stream. HQPlayer is something that I might explore next.

fauguy

Keep me posted as you audition the Marantz SA-10 vs. Esoteric K Series. At this level, these are true Reference players.

 

Happy Listening!