Features

The world’s first* mono D/A converter that realizes the full potential of the Super Audio CD format

(* as of August, 2004)

Our approach of “improvement in sound quality through discrete L/R channel transmissions” has evolved into a completely discrete L/R system having two D-01s, one handling the left channel, and the other the right channel.

The left and right audio signal paths have nothing at all for common use, both paths are completely isolated and identical, creating the highest possible reproduction quality, non-compromised sound. This system also proves its ability in reproducing ambience and presence data and recreates details of the performance environment or a feeling of the original recording session.

What’s more, because each channel has its own power supply, the design of this supply can be optimized with ample headroom, achieving an ideal D/A conversion.

•2 XLR (ES-LINK), 1 RCA, and 2 IEEE 1394 inputs are provided

•DSD signals from Super Audio CD are fed in through XLR terminals in an Esoteric-exclusive format, ES-LINK, or through the IEEE 1394 interface.

•A maximum 192 kHz PCM signal can accepted (both Dual and Stereo transfers available).

•When stereo or multi-channel signals are fed in, only the sound of the channel you set as explained in the section, “Channel Selection”(pages 11 and 13), is selected.

•Three digital filter options are provided: FIR, RDOT, and FIR+RDOT. The filtered signal is converted up to a maximum 768 kHz and then sent to the multi-bit D-A converter PCM1704. The DSD signal from Super Audio CD is converted to 88.2 kHz or 176.4 kHz PCM data before being sent to the digital filter.

•Equipped with RAM-Link (Refined Asynchronous Memory Link), using a high-precision crystal oscillator, that when entering word sync mode, the RAM-Link is automatically activated and acts to eliminate jitter caused before the first stage of the DAC.

•For the D/A converter, a combination of as many as eight PCM1704 multi-bit D-A converters is used for the best possible S-N ratio and linearity, which makes it possible to faithfully replicate the ambience and presence of the performance environment.

•The driver circuitry that sends out D/A converted signals uses a discrete circuit structure operating on ±42 volt rails with emphasis on driving force and slew rate, making a significant contribution to the remarkable sound.

Word Sync enabled - Making Synchronizing with External Equipment Possible

The word sync feature operates either in “OUT” mode (as a word clock generator) or in the “IN” mode that allows this unit to lock to an external word clock. It can lock to 44.1, 88.2, 176.4, 48, 96, 192, 100, 48P, 96P, 192P and 100P (kHz) inputs/outputs. (“P” represents “4% down mode for PAL films”.)

Selecting the “Rb IN” mode will select a PLL circuit devoted solely to synchronizing with a rubidium or other high- precision clock. The use of ESOTERIC’s rubidium master clock generator G-0s, will produce the most remarkable listening experience with a feeling of speed and subtle clarity.

Analog potentiometer allows a direct connection to a power amplifier

With the built-in analog potentiometer (“VOLUME”), concern’s over truncating or dropping bits, as used in digital attenuators, is negated.

Copper wires of 6N purity are used for primary internal wirings, further enhancing sound quality

High purity 6N copper wires are used for the supplied AC power cord and most of the internal wirings that may have effect on the sound quality, thereby boosting the purity and resolution for a crisp, textured sound.

For the insulating sheath, polyorefin, non-PVC material, is used out of environmental considerations as well as sound quality. PVC is not used for any wiring inside the unit. The high purity 6N copper cable is developed with the help of Acro Japan Ltd. as is the case with the Esoteric “MEXCEL” interconnection cable and high purity 8N copper cable.

Highly rigid chassis is immune to internal and external vibrations that might degrade sound quality

Thick aluminum is used on the top, side, bottom panels and rounded corners in addition to the front panel. The entire body is supported by Esoteric-exclusive pinpoint feet (patent pending) made of case-hardened tool steel. Exacting attention is given to the highly precise mounting of all mechanical parts, the rigidity of the housing, and the elimination of sympathetic vibrations. To make double sure, an 8-mm thick plate is used for the upper cover that is subject to the sound pressure and vibrations from the speakers.

The front and side panels, constructed of thick brushed aluminum, and the rounded four corners create a feeling of dignity and gravitas, fitting only to the top level mono D/A converter for Super Audio CD/CD.

“Super Audio CD” is a registered trademark. “DSD” is a registered trademark.