Playback

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1Turn on the power using the POWER button on the main unit.

The button and the display light.

2Press the OPEN/CLOSE button.

The tray opens after a second or two (this delay is due to the movement of the internal mechanism of the unit before opening).

3Insert the disc label side up.

<Make sure the disc is centered in the tray in order to avoid any malfunction or jamming of the tray or damage to the disc.

4Press the OPEN/CLOSE button again.

The tray will close. Take care not to trap your fingers in the tray.

The unit reads the disc (this may take a little time).

Number of tracks on disc

Total disc running time

5Press the PLAY button to start playback.

Pausing playback

Press the PAUSE button to pause playback (the ring surrounding the PAUSE button on the main unit lights).

Press PLAY or PAUSE to restart playback.

Stopping playback

Press the STOP button (the ring surrounding the STOP button on the main unit lights).

Opening and closing the tray

Pressing OPEN/CLOSE opens the tray if it is closed, and closes it if it is open. When the tray is opened during playback, it may take a few seconds before the disc is “unloaded” and the tray opens.

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Esoteric X-03 owner manual Playback, Pausing playback, Stopping playback, Opening and closing the tray

X-03 specifications

Esoteric X-03 is a cutting-edge digital-to-analog converter (DAC) that represents the pinnacle of audio engineering and technology. Designed for audiophiles and music enthusiasts, the X-03 is built to deliver an exceptional listening experience, showcasing the intricacies of music with remarkable detail and fidelity.

One of the standout features of the Esoteric X-03 is its dual-mono construction, which minimizes crosstalk and ensures an optimally balanced audio output. This architecture allows for the separation of left and right channels, providing a clearer and more spacious soundstage. The high-performance DAC chips used in the X-03 are capable of handling a wide range of audio formats, including high-resolution PCM audio and DSD (Direct Stream Digital), making it a versatile choice for modern music consumption.

The X-03 employs proprietary technology, such as the Esoteric Clock Jitter Reduction system, which effectively minimizes timing errors that can deteriorate audio quality. By maintaining impeccable timing during playback, this technology ensures that the music retains its dynamic range and tonal accuracy. Furthermore, the DAC features a robust power supply design, including multiple isolated power transformers that cater specifically to digital and analog sections, reducing noise and providing stable performance.

In terms of connectivity, the Esoteric X-03 offers a comprehensive range of inputs including USB, balanced XLR, and RCA, accommodating various audio sources. The USB input supports PCM audio up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256, allowing users to tap into the highest quality digital audio files available.

The user interface of the X-03 is intuitive, featuring a bright display that provides essential information while allowing for easy navigation through various settings and inputs.

In conclusion, the Esoteric X-03 is not just a DAC; it’s a robust audio tool designed for those who appreciate the subtleties of sound. With its advanced technologies and meticulous design, the X-03 delivers a remarkable listening experience, ensuring that every note and nuance is captured and reproduced with precision. It stands as a testament to Esoteric's commitment to excellence in high-end audio equipment, making it a cherished component for any serious audio system.