EMM-Labs XDS1 vs Esoteric K-01

I sold my Burmester 089 (excellent player FWIW), and bought a GNSC Statement Wadia S7i. I betters my old 089 in every way except the Burmester is a little "warmer". But, the S7i does take a long, long time to break in with the Black Gate caps, but every few weeks, it get more,"more". I am very happy indeed, and just as important, it is a great pleasure to talk with Steve at GNSC. I in fact, bought the Wadia based on his reputation, which he has lived up to, in each and every way.

04-18-11: Talk2me
I don't know how to be more delicate in saying this, but Burmester Top or Reference Line is the best in the world without a doubt, period, end of discussion. If you value all the best things from valves and vinyl with the reliability of solid state, Burmester is your answer. It is not even close. Even among the highest, most expensive players, Burmester is the best.
Talk2me (Threads | Answers | This Thread)

You put this unit for sale shortly after you posted this. Are you now trying to sell the GNSC modded unit?

Talk2me, what is your assessment of the Wadia direct vs. preamp?

Wadia is extraordinarily sensitive to power cords, footers, and shelves.

Audiofeil and AudioOracle, can you comment on K-01 and K-03 break in patterns?

I am getting the impression that K-01 upsampling rates and filter settings may need, to some extent, be broken in on their own.... E.g. after breakin in 44.1 Khz with filters off for about 350 hrs, DSD+FIR1 seems to need still some break in time of its own.

Guido

Disclaimer: Reviewer