The Esoteric N-01XD SE is a high-class network audio player and digital-to-analog converter (DAC) from the Japanese brand Esoteric. This model is positioned as an updated version of the original N-01XD, incorporating technological solutions originally developed for the flagship Grandioso D1X SE monoblock DAC.
Master Sound Discrete DAC Revealing the Full Dynamics and Energy of Music
Unattainable for integrated chips, our goal was to assemble carefully selected and tested discrete components into a complete circuit that could perfectly reproduce all the dynamics and energy of music. Our top engineering teams put their pride on the line to develop and create sound quality that can only be found in the "Master Sound Discrete DAC" discrete digital-to-analog converter.
Luxurious Materials and Powerful Output Current
The Master Sound Discrete DAC N-01XD SE is the most revolutionary two-channel stereo DAC circuit in Esoteric's history, based on the original scheme developed for the Grandioso D1X SE Monoblock D/A Converter. Many luxurious materials were incorporated into the design of the Master Sound Discrete DAC N-01XD SE, including 32 separate elements for each channel. Each of these 32 elements, including key components such as the clock generator, logical circuit, capacitors, and resistors, remain independent to ensure the purest output signal with virtually no loss of musical energy.
Advanced Digital Processing Capabilities
The N-01XD SE includes an exclusive Delta-Sigma (ΔΣ) modulator from Esoteric, supporting 64-bit/512Fs audio frequency sampling. Separate FPGA* digital processing algorithms were developed for each conversion process to ensure that the DAC performs at the same level as the excellent performance of DSD and PCM formats. This allows the N-01XD SE to extract optimal sound quality from CD, Super Audio CD, and network audio playback.
Upgraded with IDM-01 and Other Quality Components
In the new SE model, the discrete analog parts of the DAC board have been upgraded for even better sound quality. The amplifier element is the original "Integrated Discrete Amplifier Module IDM-01". Materials, schematics, and layout were carefully studied by Esoteric engineers, as if they were designing an amplifier with a discrete configuration, and the extremely short signal path, utilizing the benefits of integrated circuits, enhances the vibration of music dynamically and subtly. IDM-01 and other analog parts, such as resistors and capacitors in the analog filter, were carefully selected to achieve a livelier sound, improved audible dynamics, and a more organic texture.
Unique Esoteric-HCLD Output Buffer Scheme with Enhanced Current Transmission
The output buffer amplifier Esoteric-HCLD of the N-01XD SE amplifier boasts a remarkably high slew rate (response speed) of 2000 V/µs. Current transfer and speed, the most important factors in the design of any analog output circuit, have been pushed to the limit, while an array of EDLC super capacitors in the power source of the buffer circuit provides an astounding 250,000 µF per channel capacity to support reliable bass and exceptionally dynamic music playback.
ES-Link Analog – Esoteric's Signature Current Transmission Technology
In addition to linear connections (XLR, RCA) for connection to the amplifier, ES-Link Analog, Esoteric's proprietary current transmission system, is used. ES-Link Analog is the ideal method for transmitting audio signals. Compared to conventional voltage transmission, it transmits approximately 100 times more current, making it less susceptible to noise and transferring all the energy of the music to the amplifier. Additionally, it is unaffected by the impedance of interconnections between the source device and the amplifier, supporting perfect integrity between the source output signal and the amplifier input signal.
Transport Connections for Super Audio CD Playback
The N-01XD SE supports Esoteric's proprietary ultra-wideband digital data transmission standard ES-Link 5, and you can connect Esoteric's Super Audio CD Transport models using two HDMI cables or one XLR cable.
Package includes:
- Network player, DAC
- Remote control
- Power cable
- Manual
