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Super Audio CD/CD Player

VRDS-NEO

VMK-5

VRDS-NEO VMK-5 

ESOTERIC’s proprietary VRDS-NEO transport mechanism VMK-5, 
incorporated in this new model, improves the accuracy of data acquisition by 
using a high-precision turntable that corrects disc surface shake during disc 
rotation.
  This hybrid turntable is made from high-precision aluminum and 
polycarbonate material helping to minimize rotational inertia. A hybrid 
structure, combining high rigidity BMC (Bulk Molding Compound) and steel 
is used for the turntable bridge which significantly attenuates rotational 
vibration. The spindle motor improves the accuracy of reading signals 
through advanced servo control using motor speed feedback loop circuit.
  ESOTERIC’s proprietary technology, the differential gear system is used for 
mechanical operations from tray opening and closing to disc clamping.  This 
gear system provides exceptionally smooth disc loading operation (Patent 
No.2861798 owned by TEAC Corporation.).

Axial sliding pick-up designed to prevent optical 

axis tilting 

The same axial sliding pick-up assembly, used in the flagship “K” series 
model K-01, is incorporated in the heart of the data acquisition section. 
As the lens moves, the laser optical axis is always positioned in a vertical 
direction, ensuring a highly accurate reading of the recorded material.

Dual mono D/A converters based on the concept 

of the K-01

The analog output circuit of the D/A converter has both high end 
resolution as well as natural and musical texture. Asahi Kasei’s top-end 
32–bit DAC device “AK4399” is used. This component provides the 
heart that drives the expressive power of ESOTERIC’s "K” series 
products. A parallel/differential output where two circuits combine per 
channel provides high linearity and low noise. The converters and 
analog output circuits, which make up a fully dual mono configuration, 
are located on the left and right hand sides of the board, completely 
separated from the digital signal processing circuit. This layout allows 
an excellent channel separation and high-quality playback with rich 
localization and sonic depth.

High quality buffer circuits

F

or the final stage of analog audio output (buffer amplifier), New JRC’s 

high end audio operational amplifier MUSES is used. These buffer circuits 
are laid out symmetrically for each of the hot/cold signal lines to construct 
a fully balanced configuration.  When the RCA audio output is selected, 
the buffer amplifier is switched to parallel configuration. These 
enhancements provide the best sound quality for each of the balanced 
and unbalanced audio signal outputs.

Large capacity toroidal transformer

that handle high speed transients with ease 

Large toroidal transformer features low noise, low distortion, and high 
current with very high efficiency. The strong power circuits, combined with 
very large power capacitors, supply stable and clean power to all circuits.

Multiple D/D functions to suit multiple sources

In addition to playback at the original sample rate and word length, 
extensive D/D conversion modes for PCM formats include PCM up 
conversion to x 2 or x 4 from the original sampling frequency, using the 
“RDOT” algorithm, as well as PCM > DSD conversion to convert the PCM 
audio signal to DSD format similar to Super Audio CD. Super Audio CD is 
directly converted into analog signals and played back.

Digital filter “Off” mode and four types of digital filters

T

he K-05 features Digital Filter Off mode recommended by ESOTERIC, 

which is characterized by a smooth and subtle sound quality. The model 
also features four types of digital filters for PCM signal processing. In 
addition to two types of FIR (Finite Impulse Response) digital filters, two 
types of short delay digital filters (Referred to as “apodizing” filters) are 
installed. These filters eliminate the pre-echo in the impulse waveform to 

reproduce audio signal as a more natural and precise sound.

Three systems of high sampling rate digital inputs

The K-05 features three systems of digital inputs (USB, coaxial and 
optical), and these digital inputs support high-sampling-rate sources up 
to 24 bit / 192kHz.

USB input supports asynchronous transmission 

up to 24 bit / 192kHz

The USB input supports asynchronous transmission up to 24 bit / 192kHz 
using the ESOTERIC’s original driver software for PC or MAC. Additionally, 
a USB isolator, which prevents noise from entering from external sources 
such as PC or MAC, allows high quality reproduction of studio master 
quality sources.

“Conveying emotive expression of music to listeners
as it was produced without exaggeration”.
The “K-05” is built with the philosophy
that an integrated Super Audio CD player
of the ESOTERIC’s K series
will satisfy the highest criteria of music lovers.
These features include VRDS-NEO “VMK-5”
Super Audio CD transport mechanism
with ESOTERIC’s established reputation,
a 32-bit dual mono D/A converter
combining multiple DAC circuits,
high sampling rate digital inputs and USB input
supporting asynchronous transmission at 24 bits/192 kHz
as well as a cutting edge high-precision clock circuit.

Power supply circuits

Axial sliding pick-up assembly

24 bit / 192kHz

digital inputs ×3

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