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Gamut M250i & D3i -- superb.

I have finally made the decision to upgrade my amp from the Gamut Di150 (which is well known and in the top few integrateds) to the M250i & D3i. The integrated is well reviewed and I also had the opportunity to extensively compare with another elite integrated, which it comprehensively trounced.
Not much on the M250i so a leap of faith in auditioning it, although the D3i has very good reviews. I wonder why this great monoblock has not attracted more attention so far.
I will be posting on the sound of the M250i & D3i combo soon. A few subtle improvements as it finally runs in, but for now ...... it is magic !
mike60
mike60 OP
275 posts
 
Posted too fast :) I should also add a couple of points: There is definitely an improvement in the soundstage. I found it wider and deeper -- more 3 dimensional. Cant be sure it changed in height, and I cant compare anymore as the integrated is gone. Its worth mentioning that my very first impression was how much more detailed and naturally 'metallic' brushes sounded, as well as improved space around them and position on the soundstage.
denon1
349 posts
 
Mike60, thank you so much for the good review and comparison. I am also not affiliated with Gamut. Just by persistence of the distributor who claimed that gamut di-150 will sound much better than Plinius Hiato I had, decided to give it an audition in my house/system and my disbelieve run away after first 10 min and Hiato went for sale. So kudos to Tom Vu from KT audio imports for his advise and great services. Now I have to think how to get funds for these monos :).
Btw, my source is recently bought the Esoteric k-03.
Great cd player.
mike60 OP
275 posts
 
I am using the X03-SE which I enjoy very much and have high regard for. I would like to hear the K-03 and K-01 one of these days, but not a priority and I am extremely happy for now. Esoteric is a brand I would not move away from very easily and I tried a few high end players.
Anyway, the Gamuts are great! Try the monoblocks.
denon1
349 posts
 
Mike60, I have been with esoteric for a long time also. I had x03-se, x01d2 - great players, but they were a little too analytical and did not have the variety of filter option and USB asynchronous 24/196 input. The k-03 is a different level of sound. Very close to analog, at the same time extracting the same great level of details that esoteric is famous for. In addition, that USB makes it somehow future proof. Give it a chance to listen if possible, your x-03se might be up for sale sooner than you think.
mike60 OP
275 posts
 
Denon, did you get a chance to compare the X series with the K03 directly? How would you describe the difference in a bit more detail. You have got my attention on the K03. I would be especially interested in the characteristics/comparisons of vocals. I think the esoterics offer incredible build quality and durability where durability really counts. The sound is very detailed and the sound stage is big, but i would not be certain they are the absolute best sounding players, but certainly near the very top, and combined with the durability made it the right choice in my opinion.
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