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I understand that Esoteric was displaying two new models (K-05 and K-07) at recent hifi shows. (They're also listed on Music Direct's website.) Anyone able to share early impressions? This may be the year that I replace my Marantz SA-14, and the K-05 is definitely on my audition list.
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Will someone report on a comparison betwean the k-05/7 and x-05
I bought a X03SE used and love it. Hauled it over to a friend's so he could hear it in his system. After a couple of cd's and sacd's he said DAMN.
He ended up with the K05. I went over to hear it and it was friggin silly good.
A great spinner!
Apart from some cosmetic differences on the front panel, the only other thing that seems to set these two Esoteric players apart is the choice of Asahi Kasei 32-bit DACs. The K-05 uses a newer AK4399 while the K-07 has the older AK4392.
I'm interested in impressions as well, specially as to whether the K-05's DAC is truly worth the $2,400 difference over its sibling.
Some may perceive gripe as shallow, but pity Esoteric doesn't offer choice of silver and black finish as many audiophiles have all-black components. Heck even choice of black or silver face plate would suffice. Would consider a K-03 but not in silver.
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More expensive doesn't necessarily mean better.
K-05 is listed in silver only.
n/a
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More expensive doesn't necessarily mean better.
Edits: 08/16/12 08/16/12
Not familiar with the latest Esoterics, but if you are accustomed to Marantz house sound then that tells me that you prefer warmer sound rendition, shall I say with a slight analogue tint, the Esoterics are the opposite, they offer cooler sound.
To me Esoterics are more neutral, garbage-in garbage-out, and preferable and definitely step above in mechanical quality.
Another example to illustrate the point for Matrantz/Esoteric, consider the differences in overall sound character of McIntosh/Bryston.
Vahe
Actually, I have to disagree with your generalization. I have a Marantz SA11 S2 and an Esoteric X-05. I purchased the Marantz last summer for my main rig after my Musical Fidelity Tri-Vista SACD player died (for the final time). I was happy with the Marantz, but I felt it sounded slightly forward compared to my previous player.
Then, earlier this year the Esoteric X-05 went on sale at Music Direct. After several weeks of pondering I broke down and ordered one. (As it turned out I got the last unit in stock.) Right from the get go the Esoteric was definitely warmer than the Marantz player, and it had more resolution with a quieter noise floor. The difference was not subtle. The Esoteric X-05 is now officially the best source unit I've owned--so far.
I can only assume that the K-05 and K-07 players will be of similar sound quality and character. Buy with confidence.
F.Y.I.
Esoteric X-05 CD/SACD player
Bryston SP2 prepro
Proceed HPA2 amp
Hales Transcendence 8 towers (sealed three-ways)
(Cabling by Mogami and Cobalt)
I agree. The Esoteric X-05 is much more organic, smoother, more dynamic and more analog like in comparison to my old Marantz SA14. Highly recommended.
Edits: 09/10/12
To bad you did not hear the Marantz SA7s1..pure sonic haven.
PJB
Which would make the K-05, 07 a candidate for me... that is if they have the characteristic sonics of the X-05.
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