Bvdiman, I see your point, and if money is no object, than this thread is not relevant, unless someone likes the D-03/ P-03 better than the newer offerings. And that may be the case, I'm sure some people perfer the older Esoterics.
But, don't discount the D-03/P-03 just for hi-rez compatibility. There are great USB to SPDIF interfaces, and with most software you can input whatever format you want, do all the processing in the computer and send it to the DAC as perferred.
I don't believe alot is different DAC to DAC when it comes to signature sound. A good DAC 5 years ago is still a good DAC, and taking the processing away from the DAC is not a bad thing.
The Esoterics have great power supplies and great analog outputs, that will influence the overall sound, along with cabling, more than anything else. And with the D-03s input technology outdated, you get a slammin deal that will sound GREAT!
So yes they are still Relevant in a big way!
But, don't discount the D-03/P-03 just for hi-rez compatibility. There are great USB to SPDIF interfaces, and with most software you can input whatever format you want, do all the processing in the computer and send it to the DAC as perferred.
I don't believe alot is different DAC to DAC when it comes to signature sound. A good DAC 5 years ago is still a good DAC, and taking the processing away from the DAC is not a bad thing.
The Esoterics have great power supplies and great analog outputs, that will influence the overall sound, along with cabling, more than anything else. And with the D-03s input technology outdated, you get a slammin deal that will sound GREAT!
So yes they are still Relevant in a big way!