Anyone compared Esoteric to EMM labs products

Hi Bryon,

I have heard both the EMM Labs CDSA SE and several Esoteric models. I even owned a stock DV-50S and a RAM modified DV-60. If forced to choose between these two, I would choose Esoteric.
However, that being said, the Marantz SA-7S1 beats them both, IMHO.

Cheers,
John

I look for innovation design and Emm Labs and Esoteric both provides you with something new instead of just borrowing OEM parts. You have to determine is it the hardware or software that really makes a sonic difference.

Appreciate the responses so far. I already own the EMM labs CDSD transport and DAC8 and have been happy with the sound. I would prefer a one unit system for my home theater set up.

05-19-08: Lapierre
I look for innovation design and Emm Labs and Esoteric both provides you with something new instead of just borrowing OEM parts. You have to determine is it the hardware or software that really makes a sonic difference.

What do you mean by this Lapierre?

I guess I should mention that how something sounds means more to me than innovative design concepts. Vinyl is my format of choice, but I do listen to digital. I find many digital units too grainy for my tastes. The Marantz is not as revealing as some other players, but it does not make me grind my teeth as other digital players have been known to do.

Bryon, if you like the EMM Labs seperates, then maybe the CDSA SE is for you.

Cheers,
John

Sound is very important JmCGROGAN2 but I also look for innovative dampening methods used in building the loudspeaker carcase or what new material like carbon nanotubes provides a stiffer tonearm for Turntables. All of this to say has this improved sonics of a component.

BTW my modified CDSA SE sounds pretty good meaning not very digital IMO. I do understand that digital graniness and see myself looking more into Vinyl setups.

John, my budget is about $5,000 (I would like to buy used)so I'm curious to know alittle bit more about the Marantz SA-7S1. I too prefer the sound of vinyl over digital. It would be great to get as close to that smooth vinyl sound with a digital front end. Can you let me know your thoughts on how the Marantz player reproduces lows, mids and highs.
thanks
Byron

Byron I've audition Ayre CX-7e CD player with Vandersteen 5A. Pretty nice player for under 4k.

Byron, the strength of the Marantz is that you stop dissecting the music and just listen. Overall, I would say that the Esoteric's have deeper bass and more extended high's. The Marantz has fuller bass and smoother high's, it also has a sweeter midrange. Somewhat similar to comparing good SS (Esoteric) with good tube (Marantz) sound.

I know some who prefer the Esoteric, I know some who prefer the Marantz. It's really best if you can listen for yourself.

Cheers,
John

In your price range the Ayre C-5XE can be had used. it is very good.