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Esoteric P-03/D-03 or Esoteric K-03

Of the above mentioned units, which would be a better purchase? If the DACs in the K-03 are considered better than the previous P-03/D-03 models, then is the K-03 a better choice or is the older pair a better choice used? A new K-03 is a few thousand cheaper than the other pair used. Thanks in advance for your advice.
washline
jianming_pang
37 posts
 
I have not heard both P03/D03 neither K03. From some reviews and owners comments, i gather that the newer unit like P02/D02 is more rich and musical than P03/D03 though P03/D03 sounded neutral and very detailed...but somewhat dry or lean...according to some. Better to hear it before making your purchase, if possible. The newer K01, K03 singles units, and the latest separates P02/D02 aims to change the game, and to silence the critics of some who claim Esoteric players are clinical or bright at times.
jianming_pang
37 posts
 
newer singles might sound more natural and musical...you might want to try a used K01, seen a few selling for around $14k.

- K01 transport is a refined and evolved from P03's transport design
- K01 internal DAC uses 32bit DA devices, compared to 24bit in D03
- K01 internal DAC is more versatile because it can also used for converting your PC music files or you can connect high end internet radio device such as Magnum Dynalab through coaxial input cables. D03 can't do this.
- Most importantly, i think K01 internal DAC will sound better, not just because it has 32bit DA devices, but it directly plays SACD native DSD, instead of D03's converting PCM to DSD.

my 2 cents...

Jimmy
washline OP
185 posts
 
Yeah, the K-1s are currently going used for about the same price as the P-03/D-03 combo used. But all of the ones I've seen on sale are out of my voltage. I'd prefer a 220-240 volt machine if I were to go that direction. The K-03 new where I live is cheaper by about 3-4 thousand than the combo unit used. Thus, my asking of the question. I won't be able to audition the used combo unfortunately, but later I might have a chance to hear the K-03 before purchasing. My sense is that given the recent changes to the Esoteric gear and the trickling down of technology to the single box machines, they might be a better choice overall then the combo, which surprisingly enough might well be overpriced used given these changes. However, that's speculation on my part and it would be good to hear from someone who's actually heard the gear and can compare reasonably well. Your comments are helpful, Jimmy, so thank you for that.
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