Esoteric P-03/D-03 vs. K-03X


I’ve upgraded a number of components over the years but am still using a Denon 3910 as my SACD/CD player. I’m ready to step up and am focused on used Esoteric or DCS players. I’d like to keep it in the $5k-$8k range and am trying to find the highest quality option in that price range.

Does anyone have any first hand experience comparing the sound of the Esoteric P-03/D03 (or D-01) to a K-03X? Each is available for around $7k used so I’m trying to determine best bang for the buck. I’d also like something that I won’t have to upgrade for a long time.

My current system includes a Devialet D400s (monoblock amp/preamp/DAC) with Rockport Avior speakers. I understand that any player DAC I choose will run through the Devialet DAC but over the longer-term, I plan to upgrade my system to either Pass Labs or Boulder for preamp and amp, so the presence of the Devialet DAC is not a concern to me.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,
Chris
cpelletier1