K-01Reference CD/SACD Player low hours & as new in the factory box.

Just lowered for a fast sale so please no low offers ....

K-01 CD Device can be factory upgraded tp take a Digital input for $1,500. See factory link for the upgrade @

http://www.esoteric-usa.com/USB-upgrade.php

========================================================
No low offers considered, the right buyer will appreciate the sound, build quality and
as new condition.

The Absolute Sound's Full Reference Status

see: http://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/esoteric-k-01-cdsacd-player/






Equipment report

by
Alan Taffel

|
Mar 28th, 2013

Reviewers constantly see gear come and go, but, as you can imagine,
we regret the parting of some pieces more than others. Roughly two years
ago Esoteric had to pry its K-03 player from my sweaty, clenched
fingers. Why did I love this thing so much? Let me count the ways.

The
then-$13,000 K-03, to my mind, represented a perfect combination of
capabilities. It was—and still is—a CD/SACD player, a full-fledged
S/PDIF DAC, a USB DAC, and a linestage that will directly drive a power
amp. Most importantly, the K-03 excelled in every single category. I had
never heard a better SACD player or USB DAC, and the S/PDIF DAC was
squarely in reference territory as well. My only quibble was that CD
playback, while very good, wasn’t quite in the same league as the rest
of the K-03’s functions.

For
that reason, even as I relinquished the K-03, I began lobbying to get
my hands on the flagship K-01, which, at the time, ran $23,500. The
primary differences between the two models are the transport mechanism
(the K-01 uses a VRDSNEO “VMK-3.5-20S”, the very same mechanism found in
the company’s P-02 stand-alone transport, which costs $23,500 all by
itself!) and improved DAC linearity through the use of more (eight
versus four) parallel/differential AKM chipsets per channel. Given these
upgrades, I figured the K-01 should do at least as well as the K-03 in
every category, and I hoped against hope that its CD performance would
achieve full reference status, making the K-01 something of a perfect
source component. Unfortunately, the company’s distributor at the time
could not come through with a test K-01. Since then, I have been
pouting.

Recently, though, Esoteric has done two things that warm my heart. First, it has lowered
prices on many models, including the K-series. The K-03 is now $10,900,
a fantastic value, and the K-01 has dropped to $19,500. Second, the
distributor promised me a K-01, and came through.

Let me tell you,
it was tough waiting out the month of continuous break-in that Esoteric
mandates. After that I spent many more months evaluating the K-01 in
all of its copious configurations. In the end, I can report that all my
fervent hopes were fulfilled. The Esoteric K-01 is the most versatile,
best-sounding, most finely crafted source component I have ever
encountered.

A Reference CD and SACD Player

Positive Feedback says:

https://positive-feedback.com/reviews/hardware-reviews/esoteric-k-01x-sacd-cd-player/

From a hardware and software perspective, there is no doubt that the
K-01X is a technological tour de force. Based on the Esoteric Grandioso
P1 transport ($35,000) and the mono-block Grandioso D1 DAC ($18,000
each), the K-01X proudly pounds its chest with superb engineering and
mil spec like quality.

State of the art design choices include the well celebrated Esoteric
VRDS NEO VMK 3.5-20S transport, the Asahi Kasei Microdevices Corporation
32-bit AK4495S DAC IC, and the MUSES 02 operational amplifier. Fully
independent power transformers and power supply circuits are
employed for each channel. The K-01X DAC also utilizes 8
parallel/differential circuits with 16 outputs driving each channel. All
of this adds up to a true dual mono configuration that achieves
outstanding linearity and minimal distortion.

The K-01X combines these multiple 32-bit DAC chipsets and utilizes a
35-bit D/A processing algorithm to convert the PCM signal to analog at a
high resolution in excess of 32 bits. Esoteric claims that 35-bit
processing achieves a resolution that is fully 2048 times that of 24-bit
processing.  

The VRDS-NEO VMK-3.5-20S transport deserves some additional
discussion. It is considered one of the finest transports in the
industry, and is one of the key reasons for the superb sound and
performance discussed below. From the Esoteric website:

“The culmination of Esoteric’s most advanced mechatronics
know-how, the VRDS system radically improves the reading precision of
Super Audio CD/CD discs by mechanically correcting for surface run-out.
The K-01X’s VRDS -NEO VMK-3.5-20S drive also features two sets of
specially selected ball bearings supporting a duralumin turntable
constructed to micron-level accuracy, and a 20mm-thick steel turntable
bridge. The combined mechanical structure weighs an impressive 5.2kg
(12kg including the rigid base).”

“The drive employs proven Esoteric technologies, including a
high-flux-density magnet-driven coreless three-phase brushless spindle
motor, a thread feed control derived from the thinking behind the P1,
and a shaft-sliding pickup which consistently illuminates the disk with a
precisely perpendicular beam of laser light.”

“Additionally, the disc tray features a silent shutter mechanism
that further ensures the ultimate in operating precision. This mechanism
closes the shutter when the tray is retracted, then mechanically locks
it into place in the front panel to ensure a more secure environment
that minimizes the effects of extraneous noise and airborne
contaminants, etc. on sound quality.”

"At the heart of the VRDS-NEO drive is a spindle driven by
Esoteric’s proprietary VS-DD servo driver circuit. This uses a discrete
three-channel amplifier to optimize the motor drive current, minimize
vibration and provide ultra-smooth spindle operation and high-accuracy
servo control. The K-01X is also equipped with a proprietary toroidal
power supply that greatly enhances noise isolation."

The K-01X also provides a nice variety of inputs and outputs. Coaxial
and optical inputs support DSD via the DoP format and high-resolution
PCM of up to 192kHz/24-bit. The USB input supports asynchronous
transmission and rates up to 2.8/5.6 MHz DSD and 384kHz/32-bit PCM. The
USB input also supports DoP and ASIO 2.1. Digital outputs include one
XLR (AES/EBU) and one RCA (S/PDIF). Analog outputs include one pair of
XLR and one pair of RCA.

In addition to playback at the original sampling frequency, PCM can
be up-converted to 2X, 4X, and 8X the original sampling rate. Four types
of digital filters can be selected for PCM signal processing including
FIR1, FIR2, SDLY1, and SDLY2. PCM to DSD conversion is also an option.

Please see the Esoteric website for additional insight on all the
inputs, outputs and digital filters. The choices seem endless, but once
you spend the needed time to audition a few combinations, you will be
greatly rewarded and satisfied by the results. As logic dictates, your
specific system and specific listening room may require different
preferences. Nice to have options!

Sound :

Let’s just cut to the chase. The K-01X is the finest digital front
end that I have auditioned in my listening room. It has me staying up
late at night listening to CDs, SACDs and various high resolution files
that I have not listened to in years. I have now been reintroduced to
most of my digital library. It has been quite a revelation.

This is the first Esoteric component that I have been able to fully
evaluate, so I am not exactly sure why Esoteric has a rep for having an
analytical if not left brain type presentation. Maybe this is just a new
generation of product with a new design philosophy, but the K-01X is
extremely musical and easily finds it way to both my head and heart.

The K-01X produced something very close to the ideal for my listening
taste. Meaty and rich with lifelike harmonics that will pleasantly
surprise you. Dynamics, detail and speed like the real thing. There is a
presence and palpability that is quite astonishing if not addictive.

Mids were well fleshed out with layers and layers of inner density.
Bass was the best that I have heard from digital with plenty of slam and
depth charge like weight and authority. Highs were sweet with a
wonderful sense of dynamic flair and visceral excitement.

With the K-01X in charge, the sound stage and scope of the
presentation just seemed to expand in all directions. Imaging was locked
in and three dimensional. The ambiance and spatial cues from familiar
tracks unexpectedly had the hairs on the back of my neck standing on
end. This was a big big sound—closely approaching if not the equal to
what analog can offer.  

Setup and Format Notes :

Let me also offer some setup and format notes that some may find
interesting. The break-in period was virtually non-existent. It might
have taken a few days to really open up, but the K-01X sounded great
right out of the box. I don’t understand all of the comments on the
Internet about weeks if not months of burn in.

Though close in performance, I preferred the USB input over the Coax
and Optical inputs. The USB was just slightly more open and of course
had much more flexibility to handle a variety of DSD and PCM files.
Again, this was a tough call and could have been based on some other
factor like the quality and brand of cable used for each. 

After experimenting, I eventually left all upsampling and digital
filters set to off when using either the Magico Q7 or Sonus Faber
Stradivari speakers. These two speakers obviously represent two
different data points on the musical verses analytical curve, but again I
preferred everything set to off for both. For my ears, this provided an
ultimate level of transparency and a more realistic sense of weight and
bloom.

However, I must admit that the 4X upsample setting along with the
SDL2 filter was very satisfying and delivered a sound with slightly more
texture and a warmer balance. As always, to each his own and maybe your
ears and system will require something different. 

If we look at the different disc and file sources, the K-01X set new
benchmarks for all in my system. CDs and SACDs had a more lifelike
purity and excitement than I could ever remember, even when compared to
some of the same music on LP pressings. DSD and PCM files were at their
best regardless of sampling rate and word length. I have read various
reviews for other components that stated a preference for CDs vs. SACDs
or DSD vs. PCM (or visa versa), but the K-01x delivered the goods for
all of these formats.

High resolution DSD128 and PCM 192/24 files finally realized their
full potential and thankfully justified all the time and energy that I
have invested with computer audio.  With these formats via the Aurender
N10 and the Esoteric K-01X working in tandem, my vinyl collection may
have finally met its match. BTW, I did not enjoy the PCM to DSD feature.
I can’t put my finger on exactly why, but the results did not sound as
natural and effortless as the original PCM format.

Music

Art Pepper, New York Album (DSD128)

Recorded in 1979 and not released on the Galaxy label until 1985, Art
Pepper is at his bebop best on this recording. The album is now
available on the Analogue Productions label and for download on Acoustic
Sounds. With an all star band including Hank Jones on piano, Ron Carter
on bass, and Al Foster on drums, this recording was considered a true
testament to his last comeback after years and years of dysfunction and a
never ending battle with alcoholism and drug use. Pepper seems
extremely inspired by this group and the results showcase the true
skills and creativity that his fans yearned for late in his career. 

My favorite cut on the album is track 4 "Duo Blues". The K-01X really
hammers home how wonderful double DSD can be. The recording venue
expands beyond the speakers and then even beyond the walls in your
listening room. Not only do you feel his emotion and frustration, you
can almost reach out and touch as he swings from side to side and
circles the microphone during the take. Art Pepper virtually stands
before you and that reedy woody sound of his alto saxophone comes
shining through like never before. If you love small venues and intimate
jazz recordings, it doesn’t get any better than this.

Greg Brown, The Poet Game (CD)

The Poet Game was released in 1994 on the Red House Records
label. I love the CD, but I always preferred the original vinyl release
as it had a much more organic and full bodied sound. Until now. The
K-01X strikes again and turns this CD into something very special. You
will be hard pressed to hear Greg Brown’s well worn gravely voice sound
better on any other format. Every instrument will pop out and grab you
by the throat with endless amounts of detail and speed—yet you still get
the proper weight and timbre of the real thing (something digital does
not always get right).

"Jesus and Elvis" is the track that my wife always calls out for and
it’s easy to understand why. It has some goofy lyrics that will make you
smile no matter how many times you hear the song, but more importantly,
the sound of Greg Brown and Bo Ramsey on alternating acoustic guitars
will easily raise the goose bumps. Without much effort, you can tell who
is who and that these guitars are strung with different materials and
possibly even a different gauge and tension. There is no edge or bite
that will smear and homogenize the sound like most strings on digital
recordings. The sense of ease and bloom will draw you into the drama and
have you asking for more—just like good vinyl.

Respighi, Pines of Rome and Fountains of Rome - Chicago Symphony Orchestra - Fritz Reiner, Conductor (SACD)

This recording just might be my favorite of the entire RCA Living
Stereo "Golden Age" catalog. Originally recorded in 1960 at Orchestral
Hall in Chicago and released later that year, this SACD from Analogue
Productions is not just another reissue. When played through the
Esoteric K-01X, we have a performance and presentation that ranks right
up there with the very best.

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra at that time was renowned for its
brass section and for its almost overwhelming sense of power and grace.
One of the many highlights on this recording is "Movement IV, Pines of
the Appian Way". You first get the slow build up and momentum of the
woodwinds and strings that will lull you into a state of calm, yet you
know the locomotive will soon be approaching. With a sudden rush of
dynamic verve, the brass section jumps on board and then is steadily
followed by percussion and finally the entire orchestra. Waves and waves
of sound will step by step build and overwhelm your listening room. The
K-01X has the ability to separate and distinguish each section of the
orchestra as the sound soars around you. There is no compression or
confusion, just clarity, balance and power. Thrilling stuff!

Final Thoughts:

Can digital get any better than this?  I don’t know, but I will soon
find out. I have several noble contenders coming to roost over the
winter. The good news is that the technology is now gaining momentum and
the results should be very competitive. As the pilgrimage continues, I
will keep you posted.

The Esoteric K-01X SACD/CD/DAC Player is currently my favorite
digital front end by a long shot (when utilized with the very best
servers for music files). I have talked about the engineering, build
quality and feature set—all absolutely magnificent. From a sound
perspective, I must reiterate that not only does it check all the
audiophile boxes, it also provides that "emotional connection" that is
so hard to define and put your arms around. Highly recommended. An
absolute must audition!

Esoteric K-01X SACD/CD Player:

It
is best to call David and visit:www.weinhartdesign.com with questions in Los Angeles Showroom 310-472-8880 or on my cell after hours and

weekends 310-927-2260 any time from 10AM - 10PM.

Weinhart
Design has lots of other items new and used and if you're in Los

Angeles or visiting please accept my invitation to experience our World

Class Audio Showroom and please visit our web site @ 
www.weinhartdesign.com

We
are always interested in purchasing quality Audio and Video items, LP collections and most quality trades are welcomed.

All sales out of California are State Sales Tax exempt.

California State Sales Tax of 9.5% applies for items picked up or shipped to a California address.

We
accept payments by Bank Wire Transfers without fees and is the only

form of payment on all sales out of the U.S. and Canada. We prefer this

method of payment and also makes shipping to addresses other than

billing agreeable.

VISA, MC and Papal are gladly accepted within
the U.S. and Canada as long as the charge is approved and shipping to
the billing address on record and adds 3% to cover costs.

Please
call me directly in my world class showroom in Los Angeles weekdays @

310-472-8880 or any reasonable time on my cell including weekends @

310-927-2260 and I can answer your questions and help you with all of

your new and pre owned needs.

 Changing the Way You Listen, 


        David Weinhart 

       Weinhart Design, Inc.
         President & CEO
 [email protected]
  www.weinhartdesign.com
The Audio and Video Expert
2337 Roscomare Road, Studio #1
Los Angeles, California 90077
Showroom) 310-472-8880
        Cell) 310-927-2260