Esoteric K-01

Matjet,

The AK4399 DACs have balanced outputs. In order to provide SE output, a balanced to SE converter is required. To me, this appears as an additional stage on the signal path. So I'd be very surprised if RCA outputs sound better compared to the XLR. Of course, you can always experiment.

BTW, where in the US are you located, if not a secret?

Best,
Alex Peychev

I've compared single ended to balanced on the K-03 and cannot hear a difference.

Dealer disclaimer.

Hi Bill, what was the rest of your system? G.

Guido,
I've been moving the K-03 in and out of different systems but at the moment:
Esoteric C-03
Pass XA30.5
Dynaudio Sapphire

Dealer disclaimer

Thank you Bill, if I remember correctly, C-03 has pseudo-balanced inputs and outputs, while it is internally single ended. This design might have a 'normalizing' effect on C-03, as X-03 output is transformed into single ended no matter what. It might be interested to drive a symmetrically balanced pre that has both XLR and RCA inputs... with X-03 and see what happens.

Saluti,

Guido