My thoughts on my new Esoteric k03xd CD player.


Disclosure: I’m not associated with Esoteric in anyway, nor am I a dealer trying to promote this product.

Fluid without any edge or hardness is how I would describe this player right out of the box.
It’s a front row presentation without an in your face feel. Images are clearly defined with extension of all frequencies that keep everything in balance with one another. This player is replacing a Luxman d08u and is clearly superior to it in every way. It breathes life into every CD played. For those who say CD’s sound like S... haven’t heard what the latest from Esoteric has to say about that! 

hiendmmoe
Have you read What HiFi' review of the Luxman?  They were pretty emphatic about it having and I quote; " However, the Luxman falls short in its ability to communicate the passion in music, and that makes it a talented diversion rather than an essential listen."  A lean and analytic sound was pretty much their description.  A dealer near me has carries both Esoteric and Luxman.  They will get in the K-03XD but I'm not sure about the10X.  I am looking hard at the Esoteric but now I'm curious about the Luxman.

A few months ago I sold my ARC CD6SE and replaced it with an Esoteric K-03XD that I purchased on Agon. Two reasons, one ARC d/c’d all CD players due to Phillips stopping production of the spinner/laser and ergonomic issues with the top loading in aging hands. The Esoteric is well built with smooth and seemingly robust mechanism. Frankly, however, the sonics are little better than the 6SE which was good, but nowhere in the league of a high quality vinyl rig. The 03XD did not cost me a lot to acquire, but I would approach a retail acquisition very carefully, comparing various players side by side ideally, and including some at lower price points. I have not heard either the 01XD (24K) or the 1X (37K) but at those prices I would strongly suggest due diligence.