Features

The latest VRDS mechanism for Super Audio CD (Specially developed ball bearings for the optimum VRDS mechanism.)

The VRDS mechanism securely clamps the disc to the turntable whose diameter is exactly the same as that of the disc. This system completely eliminates vibration inherent to removable media and unwanted vibrations generated by the mechanical systems. Also, this mechanism clamps the disc at a slight inclination so as to compensate for warping or deformation improving the accuracy of the optical axes of both the laser pickup and the pit surface of the disc. This is effective in reducing errors in reading the disc data as well as in preventing timing errors from erratic data acquisition timing.

To achieve the high-speed rotation with superior stability that is required of a Super Audio CD player, the X-01 D2 is equipped with a duralumin turntable. A specially developed processing technology was used to enable high-precision forming of this lightweight material normally used in building aircraft.

In a joint development project with NSK Ltd., we developed proprietary, highly precise ball bearings for the VRDS mechanism. Rolling elements made from precisely machined ceramic balls provide ultra smooth rotation. The application of a pre-load to the ball bearing pair ensures a high rigidity and precise rotation not present in conventional bearings but necessary for handling the wide rotational range from normal CD to Super Audio CD playback.

Amassive 20mm-thick, SS400 steel bridge supports the mechanism to control vibrations produced by turntable rotation.

Coreless motor with neodymium magnets

Anewly-developed three-phase brushless spindle motor provides the fast and accurate turntable rotation required for Super Audio CD playback. This, and the fixing of the turntable together with the use of precision ball bearings, eliminate irregular rotation and vibration.

Research has shown that neodymium is the optimum magnetic material for this application. Neodymium absorbs changes to the motor’s electric power supply, and exerts minimal influence on the audio sections of the unit.

Constant-angle optical pickup mounted on a sled with feedback-monitored speed control

By mounting the pickup on a sled whose axis is rigid, the pickup lens is maintained at a constant angle and the laser beam, and hence the optical axis, is maintained in an accurate vertical orientation. An Esoteric original three-phase brushless motor with Hall element detection drives the sled, and the speed of the sled is monitored and used to control the sled itself in a servo feedback operation, meaning the sled is highly responsive and smooth in its operation.

Sturdy, rigid chassis with triple-point pinpoint foot support

The unit is constructed with a 5mm thick robust steel base plate, and is divided into three logical sections, thereby reducing interference between components of the unit. Highly rigid mounts are used for the VDRS disc mechanism.

To eliminate vibration, three solid (tool steel) feet support the unit and isolate it mechanically.

Unsurpassed features

Full functionality and performance suitable for the latest Super Audio CD player have been realized.

•A power transformer that incorporates a high-efficiency R- Core digital transformer and another transformer for analog. Also, the power circuits are separated for digital and analog circuits for each.

•The front 2-channel audio board is mounted with the right channel in one board and the left channel in another board.

•Super Audio CD 5.1 channel sound output is possible.

•i.LINK connection is possible. (Flow rate control compatible.)

Audio DACs

The DSD DAC for Super Audio CD playback and the multi-bit DAC for CD playback are each mounted in the front 2- channel.

Abi-directional converter circuit, capable of handling both DSD and PCM data, is also mounted so the user can fully enjoy the characteristics of both, regardless of the type of disc.

The conversion of CD PCM data to DSD, or Super Audio CD DSD data to PCM, allows the best possible playback of the DAC characteristics of both types of data.

DSD DAC and multi-bit DAC each employ one pair of + (positive) Output and - (negative) Output for 1-channel (Total output: 4), and use addition and subtraction of them to achieve high capacity D/A conversion.

Word synchronization

A master word clock from a high-quality DA converter or master clock generator can be used for clock synchronization, resulting in the almost complete elimination of jitter.

Using a high-quality clock signal provided by an external DA converter such as the Esoteric G-0/G-0s provides optimum audio quality.

Shutter isolates the mechanism from external influences

The tray opening and closing mechanism is equipped with a shutter for greater precision and to eliminate adverse effects from external sound pressure and vibrations on mechanical units. When closed, the shutter mechanism is mechanically secured to the front panel to prevent it from moving.

Brushed aluminum finish exemplifies the quality of construction

The front, side and top panels are constructed of thick brushed aluminum. The high-quality luxurious finish matches the overall attention to the finest possible quality, shown in such details as the illuminated surrounds to the control buttons and the milled aluminum disc tray.

4