Features

This independent D/A converter explores new musical frontiers in a manner only possible to Esoteric, the acknowledged leader in Super Audio CD/CD playback.

The D-03 delivers high-quality reproduction of DSD stream signals, 192 kHz/24-bit high-sampling PCM signals and other data-rich formats without data loss.

It has been specifically developed to reproduce the ambience and resonance that is found on Super Audio CDs.

DAC “AD1955” with DSD input

The DAC device features “AD1955” supporting DSD and PCM signal input in a differential configuration.

It can fully express the presence and smooth frequency response that the Super Audio CD format delivers and can elicit superior performance also from regular CDs.

The D-03 inherits the monaural specifications and strengths of the D-01

D-01 know-how is used throughout.

Right and left analog power transformers, analog power supplies and analog audio circuits are completely independent while using the exact same components and the same layout pattern.

The analog output units employ discrete circuits with high- voltage power.

The power transformers comprise a total of three high- efficiency audio R core transformers: one digital and two analog transformers.

The analog power supply uses discrete power stability circuits.

A digital filter OFF function is provided.

Straight signal transmission

A straightforward PCB layout of both the digital and analog circuitry prevents loss of tonal clarity.

ARAM-link without data processing capability eliminates jitter. The provided digital filter has an off setting.

The usual analog filter in the Fs/2 region has been dispensed with and there are no switching or adjusting circuits. Filtering elements and transmission circuits in the power supply and elsewhere have been optimized.

Versatile interface that handles a variety of input formats

In addition to S/PDIF, AES, i.LINK and other formats, the D-03 can be connected to CD, Super Audio CD as well as DVD audio devices.

All input terminals can handle 192 kHz/24-bit input.

DSD signals from Super Audio CD are input either via ES- LINK, a proprietary Esoteric format, or i.LINK.

Two XLR terminals handle Dual AES and ES-LINK format inputs in which case left and right channels are independently transferred.

CH_SEL selects audio channel when multi-channel signals are input via i.LINK.

Word sync for synchronizing with external equipment

The Word sync feature provides an OUT mode for outputting a word clock and an IN mode for allowing the unit to lock to an external clock.

The large and highly accurate VCXO crystal oscillator has been specially designed for the D-03. This stable and high- precision clock provides the audio clock signal used for D/A

conversion as well as the highly accurate synchronization for the transport unit.

Further, the Word sync input is optimized to input the ultra- precise G-0s master clock generator. The D-03 can thus handle 44.1, 88.2, 176.4, 48, 96, 192 and 100 kHz word clock input and output specifications.

RAM-Link upgraded to process DSD data

RAM-Link (Refined Asynchronous Memory Link) circuit, now RAM-Link III, has been upgraded to also process DSD data. The Word sync mode automatically engages RAM-Link to eliminate jitter up to the previous stage before inputting the signal to a DAC device.

6N pure copper for internal wiring to realize higher quality sound

An essential link in high-quality sound reproduction, the main internal wiring in the D-03 uses 6N pure copper cable for greater purity of sound and better resolution.

RCA jacks use the very best materials such as pure copper and gold plating. The D-03 has WBT nextgen sockets for 75 ohm digital inputs and WBT-0201 sockets for analog outputs.

Our high-end power inlets made with rhodium plated pure copper go through a super cryogenic process.

Highly rigid chassis completely eliminates internal and external vibrations preventing sound and quality deterioration

Thick aluminum is used in the top, side and front panels as well as in the corner sections while a solid 5 mm thick steel plate with quenched steel pinpoint legs (patent pending) support the entire structure. For greater strength, the internal chassis has a compartmentalized design that adds rigidity, suppresses vibration and effectively removes all electrical interference. The top panel features an 8 mm thick aluminum plate to obliterate any concern for the impact of speaker sound pressure that normally affects conventional designs.

The solid aluminum front and side panels with their brushed finish, the top panel with its beautifully crafted logo and the curved corner design that increases rigidity and reduces vibration all contribute to the sense of quality found only in 2- channel D/A converters designed for the ultimate Super Audio CD/CD system.

The output jacks are not mounted on the PCBs but on the rear panel to protect analog PCBs and the jacks from physical stress and complex vibration modes. Securing the analog PCBs to the internal chassis and the output jacks to the rear panel prevents impairment of sound quality from a failure in the mechanism.

4