Product Description
Finally, the SE models are now available with new discrete clock technology and improved analog circuitry in the DAC.
The SE models reflect every conceivable technological accumulation from the time the original model was launched to the present. Enjoy the enhanced presence, dynamics, and beautifully organic and musical textures of the three new SE models.
If you own an existing K1X, it can be sent to Japan for the upgrades and returned. Contact us for more info.
- “VRDS-ATLAS” Super Audio CD transport mechanism
- “Master Sound Discrete DAC” – In-house developed FPGA, 64bit/512Fs Delta-Sigma modulator
- Up-graded DAC board with specially selected quality parts including IDM-01 (SE)
- “ES-Link Analog” current signal transmission output
- “Master Sound Discrete Clock for Digital Player” – in-house developed discrete clock module (SE)
- Clock sync function
- Four independent toroidal power supply transformers
- Low-feedback discrete discrete DC regulators
- 76 × EDLC super capacitors (total capacitance: 2,050,000μF=2.05F)
- Semi-floating top panel
- Redesigned pinpoint foot (SE)
First of the SE enhancements is the clock is now fully in-house:
The “Master Sound Discrete Clock for Digital Player” used in the new SE models applies the basic design concept of G1X’s in-house manufactured OCXO module to the internal clock of the digital player models. The unique circuit design using carefully selected discrete components, such as a large crystal oscillator, achieves high sound quality that reflects Esoteric’s philosophy in every detail, which cannot be achieved with an off-the-shelf clock module. The new SE models can also be connected to the Grandioso G1X external master clock generator to improve sound quality by synchronizing the internal circuitry to an even more accurate 10 MHz clock.
Second is the enhanced analog circuit:
In pursuit of the original master sound, Esoteric has finally completed a completely in-house designed discrete DAC, the “Master Sound Discrete DAC”. All processing is performed by Esoteric’s own FPGA algorithms, and the discrete circuit design without the use of conventional DAC ICs ensures that Esoteric’s philosophy is carried through to the smallest detail. This highly original new DAC platform, first introduced in the Grandioso D1X, sets a new milestone in the discrete DAC trend in high-end audio, with a sound that expresses the full dynamics and power of music.
In the Grandioso D1X SE and Grandioso K1X SE, the FPGA algorithms and DAC circuit design were retained, but the discrete parts of the analog circuitry were brushed up to achieve an even higher level of sound quality with more vivid live sound, improved aural dynamics, and more organic texture.
In addition, several mechanical hardware changes that are key to sound quality are also included.
Esoteric’s original Pinpoint foot, which integrates a spike and saucer, has been replaced with a new foot that is not bolted to the lower chassis, but is held in place by the weight of the chassis when installed. By avoiding the stress concentration caused by screwing the Pinpoint foot body into the large surface area of the lower chassis, a more open sound is created.
Full specs here: https://www.esoteric.jp/en/product/k1x_se/top
