Settings (Audio Setup)

Analog output settings (Analog Out)

When 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.

2ch *

Outputs 2-channel audio from the the i.LINK (AUDIO) and the AUDIO OUT terminals.

If multi-channel program material is played, the multi-channel material will be downmixed to two channels.

Multi ch

The unit outputs the multi-channel surround sound.

Select this when the i.LINK (AUDIO) terminal is connected to a surround sound amplifier.

<Note that if “Multi ch” is selected, only the front L/R sound of the multi-channel material will be output from the AUDIO OUT terminals.

<This setting has no effect on the DIGITAL OUT terminals.

Digital output settings (DigitalOut)

When 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.

ON *

Audio is output from the i.LINK (AUDIO) terminal and the DIGITAL OUT terminals.

OFF

Audio is not output from the i.LINK (AUDIO) terminal and the DIGITAL OUT terminals. If you are not using these terminals, we suggest that you use this OFF setting for better analog sound.

<Digital sound from Super Audio CDs cannot be output from the DIGITAL OUT terminals.

CD Direct

When 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.

Direct *

Speaker setting is bypassed.

Normal

The speaker setting you have made is used.

Connect the i.LINK (AUDIO) terminal to an amplifier for this setting.

Settings (Speaker Setup 1)

Use these speaker setup menus when the i.LINK (AUDIO) terminal is connected to a surround sound amplifier, and when you don’t use the speaker menus of the amplifier.

There is no need for this setup when not using the i.LINK (AUDIO) terminal, or when you use the speaker menus of the amplifier. In this case, leave this setup as it is (factory settings).

<This setup has an effect on the sound output from the i.LINK (AUDIO) terminal and the AUDIO OUT terminals when the Analog Out setting is set to “Multi ch”.

<When the Analog Out setting is set to “2ch”, the SP Size and Distance setting are ignored.

<When the CD Direct is set to “Direct”, the settings made here are ignored during playback of a CD.

Speaker Size (SP Size)

Select the size (Large* or Small) independently for the L/R (front pair of speakers), the C (center speaker) and the SR/SL (surround pair of speakers). Turn the subwoofer (SW) ON* or OFF (if you have no subwoofer).

Large *

Select this when the connected speakers can fully reproduce bass frequencies.

Small

Select this when the connected speakers are rather small and cannot reproduce bass frequencies.

When this setting is selected, bass frequencies are output from the subwoofer (if no subwoofer is connected, from the front speakers).

OFF

Select this when no speaker is connected. The sound is output from the front (or surround) speakers.

<When the front speaker is set to “Small”, the subwoofer is set to “ON” automatically. You cannot set the subwoofer “OFF”.

ON (subwoofer only)

Select this when a powered subwoofer is connected.

<For the center and surround pair options, if these speakers are not physically present, you can select OFF to prevent any output from those channels (you cannot turn off the front L/R pair). Any speakers turned off will downmix to the other enabled channels.

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Esoteric X-03 owner manual Settings Audio Setup, Settings Speaker Setup
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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.
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