Esoteric K-03 versus McIntosh MCD1100

[o0OBillO0o]

@Dan.. funny post, and some truth.

[PlanarSpeakerFan]

Originally Posted by jdandy

Ken.......The Esoteric K-03 does handle DSD. It's called SACD and it is fabulous.

All the hoopla about DSD over USB doesn't get my juices flowing at all. Unless and until there is a DSD catalog large enough and worthy enough to pique my interest I will remain on the sidelines. Then there is the gargantuan file sizes. Quite honestly, I view DSD downloaded files as a passing fancy created and designed to separate us from additional cash by purchasing new hardware, software, and duplicating already existing music in our libraries. Most of the largely uninteresting DSD downloads currently available were not originally recorded in DSD.

Digital format wars are beginning to make me tune out. Between Blu-ray audio, DVD audio, Dolby Hi-res, DSD, DXD, MQA, and who knows what else is on the drawing board, it's getting to be too murky. The perceived benefits of one file storage compression scheme over another has as many supporters as detractors on both sides. I prefer to store my CD's and high-res FLAC files on a music server and spin my SACD's on a transport. Simple, easy, relaxing, without all the complications of format, playback compatibility, software and hardware configuration, and multiple components being touted to make it all happen. It is becoming exhausting. I just want to enjoy music.

Hi Dan,

I don't disagree with you. I own the K-01 and have purchased many SACDs over the the last year and a half. However, native DSD files are gaining popularity. But if you already own them in SACD, there's really no point to repurchase them in DSD download. Nevertheless, I do enjoy the convenience of the server, which can play for hours without being touched.

Best,
Ken

[krustycat]

You do not need to repurchase the dsd version of the SACD if you have the disc, since you can extract it using an old fat PS3.

[jdandy]

krustycat.......No need. Open tray, place SACD, press play.

[j3brow]

Originally Posted by jdandy

krustycat.......No need. Open tray, place SACD, press play.

I gotta say. My SACDs have never sounded better since the K01X has graced my system. Guess it's true, the Japanese market/manufacturers really, really know SACD.

[sbk]

Dan - thanks for taking the time and sharing, this was very interesting and informative. Great work and write-up!

Cheers

[jdandy]

sbk.......Thank you.

Welcome to Audio Aficionado.

[bmichels]

Originally Posted by j3brow

I gotta say. My SACDs have never sounded better since the K01X has graced my system. Guess it's true, the Japanese market/manufacturers really, really know SACD.

OK, but... how good is the KO1x with plain RedBook CD playback ? Can it be as good with RB CD than a TOL CD player ? SACD drive are not always good CD drive !

[-E-]

It does redbook material quite well.

[jimimac]

Sorry about the bashing. It's good stuff.Beautiful...Help me out here Brother Ivan...