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Esoteric X-03se vs K-03

I've enjoyed the X-03se for some years now in our 2-channel system. I'm curious however, as I've yet to see any reviews that directly compare the old to the new - X-03se to the K-03. I've read the published reviews, and realize the K-03 has improved accessibility (USB, etc), setting adjustments,et al, but are we to assume that, because it is the upgraded version, it improves upon the X-03se sound/presentation in every way? Anyone been able to do an A/B?
mbump

Showing 2 responses by cerrot

cerrot's avatar
cerrot
1,700 posts
 
I had the X03SE for a few years and upgraded to the K03 about a year and a half ago. If you would have told be the improvement upgrade before I did it, I would not have believed you. I did it just to upgrade as I went with new amps, so figured go with the times and get the new model. WEll, it does everything the X03 SE does and then add in some of the best digital I have ever heard. The K03 can be used as a dac, the X03 cant. The K03 is more resolving, deeper soundstage, more info, detail, gobsmacks of emotions, etc. Basically, it blows it away.
cerrot's avatar
cerrot
1,700 posts
 
Hi Mbump, I disagree totally with that part of the reviews. Don't know what they were listening to. The redbook is awesome. I have a Berkeley DAC with a Tara Lab The One Digital Cable and the internal dac blew the Berkeley away. The K03's redbook is stellar. Most of what I listen to is actually 44.1k and NO dissappointments! I think the K03 is one of the ebst 44.1k players available. Run for an audition.
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