4
The latest VRDS mechanism for Super Audio
CD, CD and DVD playback
(Specially developed
ball bearings optimize the VRDS mechanism.)
The VRDS mechanism securely clamps the disc to the
turntable. The turntable diameter is exactly the same as that
of the disc. This system completely eliminates vibration
inherent to removable media and unwanted vibrations
generated by the mechanical systems. Also, this mechanism
clamps the disc at a slight inclination so as to compensate for
warping or deformation, improving the accuracy of the
optical axes of both the laser pickup and the pit surface of the
disc. This is effective in reducing errors in reading the disc
data as well as in preventing timing errors from erratic data
acquisition timing.
To achieve high-speed rotation with superior stability that is
required of a universal player, the P-03 Universal is equipped
with a duralumin turntable. A specially developed processing
technology was used to enable the highly precise forming of
this lightweight material, normally used in high-tech aircraft
design.
In a joint development project with NSK Ltd., Esoteric
developed proprietary, highly precise ball bearings for the
VRDS mechanism. Rolling elements made from precisely
machined ceramic balls provide ultra smooth rotation. The
application of a pre-load to the ball bearing pair ensures a
high rigidity and precise rotation not present in conventional
bearings, but necessary for handling the wide rotational
range from normal CD to Super Audio CD playback.
A massive 20mm-thick, SS400 steel bridge supports the
mechanism to control vibrations produced by turntable and
media rotation.
Coreless motor employing neodymium
magnets
Esoteric has developed a new, life-long three-phase brushless
spindle motor for high-speed rotation of the large diameter
turntable. Combined with the high-precision ball bearings
that firmly hold the turntable in place, this motor helps to
further minimize rotation irregularities and vibrations. The
magnetic field of the neodymium magnet has been optimized
through magnetic field analysis to minimize fluctuations in
motor drive current, and reduce any adverse impact on audio
circuits.
A pickup designed to prevent tilting of the
laser optical axis and speed feedback-
controlled sled transport
The pickup of the P-03 Universal has a highly rigid sliding-
shaft structure that prevents the lens from tilting. The laser
optical axis is kept precisely aligned with the media’s bit track.
The sled moving mechanism uses a proprietary Hall element
sensing-type, three-phase brushless motor while powerful
electronic speed feedback circuits control this sled mechanism
for quick access, thereby ensuring smooth, continuous
movement with superior response.
Shutter isolates the mechanism from
external influences
The tray opening and closing mechanism is equipped with a
shutter to eliminate adverse effects from external sound
pressure and vibrations on the tracking systems. When closed,
the shutter mechanism is mechanically secured to the front
panel to prevent it from moving. The shutter also seals out
environmental contaminants from getting into the player.
Power supply housed in separate chassis
The P-03 Universal shares the dual block structure concept
introduced in the P-01 where the power supply and the VRDS
mechanisms are housed in independent blocks.
The enclosure provides a high degree of isolation and high
capacity in a compact design.
The power supply consists of two transformers, one for the
mechanism and the servo drive, and the other for processing
digital signals. The WB transformer for the mechanism and
the servo drive ensures low current loss and quick response.
Highly rigid chassis completely eliminates
internal and external vibrations preventing
sound quality deterioration
The bottom plate of the chassis that supports the mechanism
is 5 mm thick and weighs 6 kg (16 lbs). Thick aluminum is
used in the top, side, bottom and front panels. Esoteric
proprietary pinpoint feet (patent pending), made of quenched
steel, help to support the chassis in a vibration free
environment. Every possible effort has been accorded to
precision in the mounting of mechanical parts, the rigidity of
the housing and the elimination of sympathetic vibration. The
thick, brushed-aluminum front, top, bottom and side panels,
contribute to a sense of quality and elegance found only in
high-end Super Audio CD/CD/DVD transport devices.
Upward conversion on CD and DVD playback
The upward conversion feature can output maximum fs to
176.4 kHz or 192 kHz when playing back CDs or DVDs. A
high-precision crystal oscillator precise to ±3ppm
(temperature characteristics included) minimizes jitter. During
Super Audio CD playback, the DSD signal (1-bit, 64 fs) is
output directly without further processing. A mode for
converting a PCM signal to DSD has also been added. This
gives the P-03 Universal accurate control over signal
differences for optimal expression of tonal texture required by
each signal type. It is also possible to select the audio format
(PCM or DSD) that best suits the music genre being played or
the amplifier and speaker combinations used.
Digital audio output
The output terminals include two XLR jacks (in ES-LINK and
Dual AES output modes, both jacks are used), one RCA jack,
one i.LINK jack and one HDMI jack. See page 12 for details.
Features
