Esoteric K-01

I have found comparing pces in general as mentioned above really isn't all that easy due to so many varibles that come into play.

#1 rca and xlr connections sonic characteristics vary.

#2 which connections are preffered and/or the strengths of the actual pce. I wouldn't use rca if xlr were the strengths visa versa.

#3 one IC that works well with one pce may not with the other.

#4 just removing an IC and connecting a different pce there can be a difference.

#5 some cables need to relax and seem to change once they have been removed and replaced

#6 Power cords, which one, just because one works well with one pce doesn't mean it's the ideal match for the other.

#7 Isolation, just because one works well doesn't mean the other one will be as ideal

#8 power conditioning also, same as #6 & #7

#9 there are other variables to consider depending on the rest of your set-up, one pce may convey something that you are missing or prefer. Lets say bass, maybe product "a" appears to be providing bass that you haven't heard in your system before but product "b" isn't.

Does this make product "a" better than product "b"?

So how are you really being able to compare or does it just come down to a personal what you like and prefer?

Just my two cents

Of course Alex, it is important to keep independent variables at a minimum

My point was that, there will still be variables which apply for the particular audio system in which both front-end units are being tested. Some will find the outcome helpful, some not. But I agree it will be fun, as always. :-)

Interesting observation Alex about power conditioning on EMM.... Is EMM particularly sensitive to power conditioning? .... Why would this be the case more so than on Esoteric K-01?

Because EMM has a switching power supply and the K-01 does not. So the EMM is much more sensitive to the power source compared to the Esoteric.

Best wishes,
Alex Peychev

:Does this make product "a" better than product "b"?"

Typically, I avoid the terms "better" and "best" like the proverbial plague. I tend to use variants of the term "prefer" instead, in an as narrowly defined context as I can . However, I recommend that a general discussion on comparative auditioning procedures and merits be continued on a dedicated thread.... I am positive there exist a number of such items on Agon already, without the need to dilute this K-01-specific discussion any further with admittedly fascinating metatopics.

I believe the new Esoteric P02/D02 has been released. Apparently, it will replace the P03/D03. It will be interesting to see how it compares to the K-01. Alex, Guidocorona, any ideas?