VCXO high-precision clock
A newly designed
high-precision clock is
implemented to achieve the
highest level of sound quality
for an all-in-one digital player. A
VCXO (voltage controlled
crystal oscillator) of +/- 0.5 ppm
(*2) that uses a large crystal is
deployed in the K-03, which is
very advantageous for advanced sound quality.
Additionally, a stabilized power supply circuit improves the stability
of clock circuit operation. When using the K-01 without using an
external WORD clock, the high precision audio clock sync signal
generated by the VCXO is directly delivered to the D/A converter,
without passing through the PLL circuit. This enables
higher-quality reproduction that is a step ahead of standard
designs. This also substantially reduces any audible jitter when
transmitting audio signals to achieve high-speed and high-quality
reproduction inclusive of a very dramatic presence and acoustic
delicacy.
(*2) Factory setting
WORD sync function enabling synchronization with external
devices
The K-03 has a WORD sync function to synchronize with an
external WORD clock. This allows upgrading to a higher-quality
sound system by connecting the unit to a high-precision master
clock generator, such as the G-0Rb rubidium master clock. As for
supported clock sync frequencies, 10 MHz is newly supported in
addition to 44.1/88.2/176.4 kHz.
32-bit precision digital attenuator function
This function enables 32-bit digital processing and a high-precision
volume control, capitalizing on the 32-bit D/A devices.
32 bits gives
an allowance of 8 bits over the standard 24 bits, and enables
control of volume with no degradation of sound quality due to
dropouts.
Excellent usability
The output voltage of the XLR audio outputs can be switched
according to the input sensitivity of the amplifier that you connect to
the K-03 (0dB/ +6dB). You can also choose Hot 2 or Hot 3 for the
XLR pin assignment. Additionally, you can switch the analog
output between RCA, XLR and OFF, as desired based on
connected components. The K-03 features one coaxial digital
output to support digital output of CDs, and a pass-thru output for
an externally input signal; however, digital outputs for SACDs
(DSD data streams), and the signal after the D/D conversion are
not supported. For noise reduction purposes, it is possible to
switch the circuit off when not using the digital output.
Chassis construction with a separate compartment for each
circuit block
A chassis construction with separate circuit block compartments
packs the design concept of separate SACD/CD transports and
D/A converters into an all-in-one unit. This helps to eliminate cross
contamination between adjoining circuits. The large-mass
VRDS-NEO transport mechanism is positioned in the center of the
unit, directly attached to the 5 mm steel bottom chassis, and
supported at three points by ESOTERIC’s proprietary pinpoint feet
(Patent No. 4075477). This 3 point system effectively suppresses
the vibration of the rotation mechanism with large inertia to ensure
a highly solid base, free from vibrations and resonance.
The interior of the K-03 chassis has a double-decker structure with
five compartments. Each circuit block is contained within its own
compartment to minimize conflicts between circuits. Two separate
audio boards for each channel are mounted on the rear part of the
upper compartment, which is nearest to the rear terminals, to
ensure the shortest signal path. The audio power circuit and power
transformers are isolated from the audio board by an internal steel
chassis plate, and hung inside the compartment on the bottom of
the audio board. Such a three-dimensional layout allows the
shortest wiring possible for the power supply, and minimizes any
impact of magnetic flux leakage and vibration.
The K-03 features two large-capacity
toroidal transformers, including one
specifically for the built-in dual mono
D/A converters and the audio circuits,
and the other for driving the digital
circuit and mechanism. This design
provides dedicated power supply
capability to all circuit blocks without
interference.
The K-03’s large mass of
approximately 28 kg (61.8 lbs), is the
result of ESOTERIC’s commitment to
the highest quality for component
isolation and compartmentalizing.
These designs virtually eliminate
resonance and vibrations from
adjacent electrical and mechanical
components.
Beautiful rounded form
The K-03 inherits its appearance from the design of ESOTERIC’s
flagship line of separate digital players and DACs, with the
front/side/top panels made of thick aluminum and a rounded form
with no screws on the top panel and corners. This form is sure to
give you a feel of elegance and pleasure of ownership, in addition
to eliminating any unwanted vibrations that are well known from
top and corner screw designs.
Feel the high-end touch with a leather finished remote control
The K-03 comes with a remote control unit that is finished in
leather and has an aluminum body with just the right weight.
The ease of use and accuracy associated with this remote control
is also based on ESOTERIC's "P series" system designs.
