Luxman D-06u or Esoteric K-05Xs CD / SACD player?

Also have a Look at the Playback Design Dream Series Transport.

There is no simple "better".  They will sound different.  The Luxman will be more relaxed and "musical", the Esoteric more detailed and "accurate". 

Also depends on what type of music you listen to. Im a Classic Rock guy primarily and unfortunately much of the genre isnt recorded all that great. If everything sounded as good as the production on Dire Straits material for example there wouldnt be an issue. Because this isnt the case the Luxman will make those harsh sounding discs much more enjoyable.  The Esoteric (I have a K-01X) will reveal every single flaw in the recording. I'm springing for the D-08U in the near term

I loved my time with my Luxman DA-06 DAC.  I'd go with the Luxman, but have no experience with Esoteric.  Esoteric CDP's do seem to come available used quite often, which is not a good sign IMO.

And check out the current thread on a 'goner trying to get service for his Esoteric.