Redbook Comparison Esoteric and Reimyo

Kusina, I would refer you to a thread I started entitled: Reference DACS: An overall perspective, that contains the information that you are seeking. Each has wonderful but different sonic signatures, that are discussed as either #1 or #2 type flavors. Take a look, I think you will find it helpful.

Kusina, as you stated, even in one box redbook players, there are different "flavors/tastes" which offer somewhat different sonic prespectives in the system they are used in. So, if you would share some of your personnal tastes, along with what gear you use in your system, we could offer more specific suggestions to you. The two players you asked about are both great sounding, but offer very different sonic presentations. I could see if a system was somewhat "forward/bright" the X-01 might not be as good as a fit as the CDP777, however if a system is some what "dark/closed-in" the X-01 might make the whole system blossom. System synergy is always, along with personnal taste, important factors. Post some details and lets see if some more specific suggestions will come your way.

Steve, I would never argue with your personnal opinion/experience regarding what your ear's told you. However, to say that the Esoteric XO-1/UX-1 is "inferior" on Redbook to the Reimyo is begging/negating the rest of your post. Regardless, of what language you use to describe the sound of both these pieces, they do both offer great sonics with different "flavors" as you state, therefore personnal taste not only enters the picture but the ever present importance of synergy and system matching. My hunch for what Kusina might like in his system is a type #2 sounding CDP. I suggest you put on your audition list the new Accustic Arts 24/192 upsampling CDP, along with the Reimyo. The Accustic Arts CDP sells for almost $8000.00 less then the reimyo, but might offer alot of its sonic performance for alot less expense.