Esoteric x series as transports

Hi Icorem,

Yes, i think you could be right...but what you might try is power cables, or your IC, or isolation. the wave kinetics A10-U8 is supposedly stunning for isolation...not cheap...but much cheaper than a new DAC. these may help improve your x5 even further. good luck!..and enjoy an already great sounding player!

I also feel you will increase performance more effectively by upgrading power cord, IC's (you gotta run it balanced for best sound), RCA caps for the unused, good isolation (I use Cera Pucs), line conditioner, etc. Cost a few grand but still cheaper than what you were thinking. And, if you don't already have - dedicated ac line.

Agree with Cerrot.