Settings (introduction)

1Turn on the main unit.

2Press the SETUP button to enter the setup menu.

“AudioSetup” appears on the front panel display.

<In this manual, factory settings are marked with an asterisk “*”.

<Although it is possible to enter the setup menu while playback is continuing, not all menu functions will be available. Expand the number of available functions by pressing the STOP button.

<Exit the setup menu by pressing SETUP once again.

3Use the cursor buttons to navigate the menus.

<Refer to the Setup Menu Chart on the next page.

<The options you can change are marked with “>”.

<Use the left and up cursor buttons (or the RETURN button) to go back a level in the setup menu.

4When an option marked with “>” is displayed, use the up or down cursor buttons to change the setting, and press the ENTER button to confirm the entry.

<When a numerical value (such as speaker distance) is changed, the value is confirmed without pressing the ENTER button.

<Individual menu functions are described on pages 23 and 24.

<Repeat steps 3 and 4 as required.

5Exit the setup menu by pressing SETUP once more.

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Esoteric X-03 owner manual Settings introduction, Use the cursor buttons to navigate the menus

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.