Marantz SA-10 Vs Esoteric K-05Xs

@goose @tomcy6 I spent some time on the Esoteric site and found the fillings difference between the K-07xs/05xs/03xs models.

The K-07xs uses two AKM AK4493 DAC chips for L and R in a single PCB board, and the units  power supply is a single switched power supply, 

The K-05xs uses two AKM AK4493 DAC Chips but each is on its own separate PCB, and the units power supply is a  toroidal power supply.

The K-03xs uses two newer AKM AK4497 DAC Chips each on its own separate PCB, also uses 2 toroidal power supplies - one for the Analog circuitry and one for the Dgital circuitry.

So there are some design differences between them. But finding used ones online is challenging (within the US 120v and not from Japan 100v model). Have one come across the K-07XS pre-owned so far.

I agree that it would be best to try the Marantz SA-10 and Esoteric players before buying (new or used). But there are only a small handful of Marantz dealers in South FL and haven't found one yet that as the SA-10 on display that I could listen to. And Esoteric only has 1 dealer in South FL.

I understand @fauguy , my situation is much worse than yours. I’d go listen even if they don’t have the models you’re interested in. My guess is that the two brands have a different house sound and that you would prefer one over the other. 

That the room and equipment that you listen to at a dealer are very different from what you have at home doesn't help either.

I agree that it would be best to try the Marantz SA-10 and Esoteric players before buying (new or used). But there are only a small handful of Marantz dealers in South FL and haven't found one yet that as the SA-10 on display that I could listen to. 

@fauguy  , have you considered Music Direct?  I believe they still sell them (that's where I got mine) and they do offer free shipping to you with a 60 day audition period.  (I assume if one decides to send something back that Music Direct does not pay the freight for shipping on that end of the deal.)

@immatthewj I looked at Music Direct, and for example, the Marantz SA-10 they show it for $7500 and with the 60 day. Other SACD players they have are Denon and McIntosh. But all are brand new, so out of by budget. That's why I was looking on sites such as eBay and Audiogon and others, to find players at a discount.

@fauguy , keep your eye on them, because they occasionally have open box or factory refurb specials at significant discounts and still with the 60 day audition. (Mine was a "factory refurb for 2k off of list.) I think there is a way to sign up on MD for their emails that advertise when they have those sales.