Lector Digicode/Digidrive vs Esoteric and Cary?


I realize this thread should probably fall under the "wretched excess/leave well enough alone" category, but here goes:

For the past six months or so I've owned the top-of-the-line Lector transport/DAC combo, and I find it gloriously musical.

But my audiophile-neurotic imp is whispering in my ear that the Esoteric X-01 that I briefly owned a year ago was more involving and exciting, but maybe, just maybe, less musical and "right." And the old fingers are beginning to itch.

I don't really have the sonic memory to compare the two sounds in any meaningful sense.

Anyone out there with recent experience with the Lector combo and the new Esoteric X-01 Limited? I gather that the new Cary is also a "contendah." (I'm not quite ready to spring for the EMM combo).

I appreciate anyone taking the time to read this and respond.
williamsims

Showing 1 response by fsarc

The itch may turn into a scratch. You have another option- the new Emm Labs CDSA SE one box at $9995. Scratch away!

Emm Labs CDSA SE

I also owned the Cary 306 SACD and it was an excellent machine.
I auditioned an Esoteric X-01 in my system and didn't care for it.

Have fun!