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Oppo Vs Esoteric

Folks,
I would like to acknowledge the fact that I have heard the Esoteric players at AXPONA and coupe of other places. But my question is how much better is a Esoteric K-07X or K-05X compared to the Oppo UDP-205? I know that the Oppo UDP-205 is a killer machine for $1300. But it is a Jack Of All Trades, while the Esoteric is (soft of) Master Of One. So in that sense, can anyone let me know if it is really worth spending $$$$$ on the Esoteric (or a Marantz SA-10 or Luxman) compared to the Oppo?
Please share your experiences if you have compared the Oppo UDP-205 to any high end CD/SACD player.
Thanks!
milpai
oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
1,076 posts
 
I have an OPPO 103D and it's a great machine for the money....  but it's no Esoteric...   not even close.   
mahler123
633 posts
 
OP asked how a Oppo as a transport into a Bryston BDA 3 compared to a Luxman or a Marantz.  I can't answer about a Luxman, but I can say the Bryston is preferable in my book to every Marantz player that I have ever heard, especially the 805
calvinj
1,594 posts
 
Oppo ppl make a great machine but the other brands you mention are leagues ahead of it.  Esoteric, Luxman, Bryston.  I had a parasound cd1 and it ran circles around any oppo machine. Oppo is good for the price but the other stuff is next level. I use the Resonessence Mirus Pro Dac which is the high end Dac of the brother of the guy who makes the oppo. It's a great Dac one of the best I have ever heard!
gdhal's avatar
gdhal
1,641 posts
 
Oppo ppl make a great machine but the other brands you mention are leagues ahead of it. Esoteric, Luxman, Bryston.


And how about for video?

I feel the need to repeat myself. The Oppo UDP-205 is an **absolutely essential** piece of gear in any serious A/V system, regardless of how much better any other brand is (from a CD/SACD only perspective and in keeping with the thread/OP question). My suggestion, buy both, a UDP-205 and whatever else.
oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
1,076 posts
 
I should have added that I have my 103D going into a NAD M51 DAC and it sounds fantastic......
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