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Any experience with Esoteric K-05?

I have an aging Cary Audio 306 SACD and thinking about a replacement soon. The K-05 is in a similar price range (at around US$8k) and I wondered whether there was any experience out there with this relatively new machine?

I would be interested in hearing from owners or people who have auditioned the Esoteric K-05. What are the players strenghts and weaknesses? What are its sonic traits? If you listened and did not buy - why not?

The rest of my system is a Gryphon Diablo integrated amp, Raidho Acoustics D-2 (diamond) speakers and Nordost Valhalla cables. Thanks!
kiwi_1282001
kiwi_1282001 OP
312 posts
 
Thanks for the comment Audiooracle. What player would you suggest?
ritmo
99 posts
 
As much as I like the K-05, if I could do this all over again, I would seriously consider the K-03. I feel the 05 is outstanding at its price point and a top contender in the sub $10K price point. The K-03 is better but the price is 30% more as well.

Mike
gordon
128 posts
 
FYI, there's an Esoteric forum/room on audioaficionado with plenty of k-series discussion.
ritmo
99 posts
 
Agree with you Gordon. I'm part of that discussion in AA as well. Many audiophiles have purchased the K-03 and some have even upgraded to the K-01. The Esoteric K series players are outstanding.

Mike
kiwi_1282001 OP
312 posts
 
Thanks Gordon and Mike. I have also read the commentary on AA including Mikes excellent overview. Looking for expanded input because the AA site seems to be a bit of fan club. Nothing wrong with that - but no product can be perfect for all systems and tastes and it is a very significant worry that there is vertually no criticism of the product. I have not been able to get hold of a K-05 for demo but have managed to get a K-03 to try and I am doing so at time of writting.
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