Brushed aluminum finish exemplifies the quality of construction

The front panel is 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 periphery to the control buttons, the top-panel logo, and the milled aluminum disc tray.

Unsurpassed design and features

Separation of power supplies for each major function (digital audio, DAC circuitry, analog audio) ensures total fidelity. The DACs have sub-ground impedances with exceptional S/N figures.

Audio DACs

All audio channels use Burr-Brown 24-bit DA converters (PCM1704). Improved linearity is achieved for the two front channels by the use of dual converters for each channel.

The audio DAC boards employ a high-quality quartz crystal, resulting in the almost complete elimination of jitter and subsequent distortion-free DA 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.

i.LINK (AUDIO) terminal

The digital surround audio from Super Audio CDs can be output from the i.LINK (AUDIO) terminal.

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Esoteric X-03 owner manual Unsurpassed design and features, Audio DACs, Word synchronization, Link Audio terminal
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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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