Moving from the Esoteric P-05/ D-05 to the K-03

Fellow member ; Syntax noted ; ''The X-Version is an upgrade Board to enable DSD Streams. That's it. No better output stage, no higher data processor, nada, only DSD Streams.''

I just found out today as other members have noted ..that there were some significant internal changes made in the '' X '' version.

Do you know what internal changes they made? When I asked Esoteric about the X-Version I got the info I wrote above. That was also on their website announcing the X-Version.

I believe there is a difference between X models purchased new and upgrades of existing units to X status. The upgrades don't get the new DAC, etc.

......some have said that the K-03x with the newer Dac's is almost and not by much- just as good sonically as the discontinued K-01

Just to be clear, 68Pete did a nice job of summarizing (above) the improvements specific to buying a new K-03X vs K-03.

For those looking to upgrade their existing K-03 to "X" it only includes the new USB interface to allow for playback of DSD in native format. The upgrade in the US costs $1,500 which includes shipping back to owner after upgrade is complete.

If you go to the Esoteric USA website there is ample information for both the K-03 upgrade and K-03X. The upgrades are being completed at a facility in CA.

Here is the link for upgrade path:http://www.esoteric-usa.com/USB-upgrade.php