Is the Esoteric P03/D03 still relevant?


Don't mean to be asking a dumb question, but I have no actual experience in Esoteric.

Is the P03/D03 still a good source to buy today? Say if I wanted to use it as a cdp and as a dac for my network? Or am I better off buying some of the newer less pricey (when new) single box esoterics?

Thanks!
joey_v
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 And with the D-03s input technology outdated, you get a slammin deal that will sound GREAT!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!
Joey-
I say yes. I like the older DV-50/60 for SACD duty (not to my liking on red-book cd), it is an excellent spinner. Many times a newer model is not always better- there are trade-off(s) for certain. Happy Listening!
Hello, I have one question not related to clock but to DSD : does D03 can Manage DSD on his spdif inputs?
thank you,
Nicolas
I really like the DV60 for not just SACD, but also for Redbook, but you have to turn off the video section. Great spinner.