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
I have owned both the Cary 306 (not pro) and numerous Esoteric unit (X-03, P3/D5 combo). To my hears, I just love the way Esoteric cdps sound. To me and my system, the Esoteric sounded more resolving and energetic. Dont get me wrong, the Cary 306 was very good but it sounded too lush for my tastes. At the end of the day, it was like splitting hairs for me between these two units but ultimately I chose the Esoteric.

I am now getting back into audio after a bit of layoff and am seriously considering the K-05 or -03, probably leaning towards the -05 only because I want to keep the amount of money I spend on this system in sane levels unlike my other system.
Hi Kiwi,

where do you source the micro diffuser blocks?

Are they available online?

TIA
Hi Kiwi,
I too have the Gryphon Diablo, but am using the Evolution Acoustic MMMicroOnes. Source is Resolution Audio Cantata which is a wonderful allrounder with CDP and DAC that even includes UPnP (which isn't ready for prime-time yet). A few days ago I got an Audio Aero Prima DAC (the DAC from the Capitole) for my brother and tested it in my system. I was very surprised as to how well it fared. I still prefer the Cantata in HF and LF extension, precision and overall resolution, but I have to say the the AA nails the mids.
Since we both have very neutral speakers (yours being probably in another level) I'd encourage you to take a look at Audio Aero. I know that I'm starting to look for that midrange and will probably look into AA (if I find something that gives me the resolution, extension and details that I want and need), PBD and maybe even AMR. I still want all the resolution in the world (I occasionaly use my system in order to evaluate mixes and masters), but I feel that the sound could be a wee little more engaging and musical without losing neutrality and details. Would appreciate suggestions.
Best regards