New Esoteric P02 D02

Hi Eelii08,

It is interesting that you mentioned about the xlr configuration. I find +6 dB setting in my system with a JR Capri S2 preamp driving the K -01 player better in every way. Is this your experience too for the combo?

Hi Eelii08,
Thanks for your kind response. I agree with you that at 0 dB, the sound is more relaxed and pleasant at low level listening. But there is a loss of dynamics when it comes to orchestral crescendoes. So I guess we can pick and choose depending on what we are listening to and when, like late at night. Cheers!

On page 16 of the C-03X manual, there is a section on adjusting the output level from -18 to +18dB in 0.5dB increments.

Here's a review of the Esoteric Grandioso to salivate over and over and over.....

http://www.soundstageultra.com/index.php/equipment-menu/545-esoteric-grandioso-p1-sacd-cd-transport-grandioso-d1-mono-digital-to-analog-converters-and-g-01-master-clock-generator

Guido,
You have been a very good friend but sometimes we just need to let go and move on.... :)
Best regards. J.

Of course, Guido! Lol.
Cheers! J.

Eelii08,
Awesome pic! High end audio porn indeed.
Thanks for the link.

Guido is probably right as usual.
I would like to share my experience with my Esoteric K-01 and I believe it applies to the D-03 too. If you go to settings, and toggle through to "Analog Output" you have a choice of 0dB or +6dB. Try the +6dB and see if this improves things. If not, you are better off with a high quality analog preamp. I have found the +6 dB setting changes the sound. Although you get more gain, but strangely enough, as the volume increases, the sound gets congested or constricted, and the soundstage collapses. So, I got a good analog preamp and everything just falls into place very nicely after that.
Cheers! J.