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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!
128x128milpai
shadorne's avatar
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shadorne
7,333 posts
 
Good choice of speaker. I don’t think the latest ESS chips sound digital harsh - I think it is more analog sounding than previous generations but with a remarkable clarity. I don’t know about the Oppo implementation but based on their track record I think you picked a very practical, flexible and solid winner rather than an obsolete but superb expensive boat anchor.
simao's avatar
simao
656 posts
 
With Esoteric, you're comparing dedicated audio disc players costing five figures with a universal/BDP player costing less than $2K.

They both are highly lauded and have their places and you would be happy with either. In the end, how much do you want to spend?


milpai's avatar
milpai OP
1,341 posts
 
@shadorne ,
I was listening to Jennifer Warne's "The Well" SACD last night and it sounded so good. I have not heard it so musical and detailed, even with my older Marantz SA-8260, which is considered warm.
shadorne's avatar
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shadorne
7,333 posts
 
I dont care for Marantz sound at all but I understand why some people may prefer it.
atacgene
20 posts
 
Hmm, may I ask those who has had listened to the esoteric SACD player what models are they ? I am thinking of getting a second hand exoteric mainly for SACD surround sound. 
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