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How much better is Esoteric K-03 vs K-05?

Was about to pull trigger on K-05, but keep reading how incredible the K-03 is. This may be a function of less press/reviews/purchases of the K-05, but I really would like to know if the K-03 provides a small incremental improvement in SQ, or it's major. And if major, how so? If you've heard both, or know someone who has, can you please provide opinions and comments? Thanks much...
jeffkad
milpai's avatar
milpai
2,420 posts
 
The K-05 won a Japanese award.

http://www.phileweb.com/aea/2013/english.html
jeffkad OP
211 posts
 
Milpai, now you tell me, LOL!?!? No worries, I'm sure I will like the K-03 :)
milpai's avatar
milpai
2,420 posts
 
Well, what I meant Jeffkad was - if the K-05 won the silver, the K-03 is much more (probably). Maybe they had not released the K-03 when the players were reviewed of something to that effect :-)
fplanner2000
616 posts
 
K-03 has a better transport and DAC implementation. K-05 is good, K-03 is considerably better, K-01 is the best single-box solution Esoteric makes. I own a K-03 in my office system and its REALLY good. K-05 doesn't have as much sonic "weight". With Esoteric, you really do get what you pay for.
jeffkad OP
211 posts
 
Just having fun with you Milpai :)

Fplanner, that's good to know. I expected as much, and probably would have been very happy with the K-05, but I couldn't resist the K-03.

Other than a server, this should complete the 2ch aspect of my system, joining Revel Salon 2s upfront, a Mac MC452 amp, a Krell S-1200 pre, and now the Esoteric. Hopefully I can jump off the merry-go-round and settle into just listening instead of chasing better equipment :)
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