The latest VRDS mechanism for Super Audio CD (Specially
developed ball bearings for the optimum VRDS
mechanism.)
The VRDS mechanism securely clamps the disc to the
turntable whose 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 the high-speed rotation with superior stability that
is required of a Super Audio CD player, the X-01 D2 is
equipped with a duralumin turntable. A specially developed
processing technology was used to enable high-precision
forming of this lightweight material normally used in building
aircraft.
In a joint development project with NSK Ltd., we 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
rotation.
Coreless motor with neodymium magnets
A newly-developed three-phase brushless spindle motor
provides the fast and accurate turntable rotation required for
Super Audio CD playback. This, and the fixing of the
turntable together with the use of precision ball bearings,
eliminate irregular rotation and vibration.
Research has shown that neodymium is the optimum
magnetic material for this application. Neodymium absorbs
changes to the motor’s electric power supply, and exerts
minimal influence on the audio sections of the unit.
Constant-angle optical pickup mounted on a sled with
feedback-monitored speed control
By mounting the pickup on a sled whose axis is rigid, the
pickup lens is maintained at a constant angle and the laser
beam, and hence the optical axis, is maintained in an accurate
vertical orientation. An Esoteric original three-phase brushless
motor with Hall element detection drives the sled, and the
speed of the sled is monitored and used to control the sled
itself in a servo feedback operation, meaning the sled is highly
responsive and smooth in its operation.
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Sturdy, rigid chassis with triple-point pinpoint foot
support
The unit is constructed with a 5mm thick robust steel base
plate, and is divided into three logical sections, thereby
reducing interference between components of the unit.
Highly rigid mounts are used for the VDRS disc mechanism.
To eliminate vibration, three solid (tool steel) feet support the
unit and isolate it mechanically.
Unsurpassed features
Full functionality and performance suitable for the latest
Super Audio CD player have been realized.
• A power transformer that incorporates a high-efficiency R-
Core digital transformer and another transformer for analog.
Also, the power circuits are separated for digital and analog
circuits for each.
• The front 2-channel audio board is mounted with the right
channel in one board and the left channel in another board.
• Super Audio CD 5.1 channel sound output is possible.
• i.LINK connection is possible. (Flow rate control compatible.)
Audio DACs
The DSD DAC for Super Audio CD playback and the multi-bit
DAC for CD playback are each mounted in the front 2-
channel.
A bi-directional converter circuit, capable of handling both
DSD and PCM data, is also mounted so the user can fully
enjoy the characteristics of both, regardless of the type of
disc.
The conversion of CD PCM data to DSD, or Super Audio CD
DSD data to PCM, allows the best possible playback of the
DAC characteristics of both types of data.
DSD DAC and multi-bit DAC each employ one pair of +
(positive) Output and - (negative) Output for 1-channel (Total
output: 4), and use addition and subtraction of them to
achieve high capacity D/A conversion.
Word synchronization
A master word clock from a high-quality DA converter or
master clock generator can be used for clock synchronization,
resulting in the almost complete elimination of jitter.
Using a high-quality clock signal provided by an external DA
converter such as the Esoteric G-0/G-0s provides optimum
audio quality.
Shutter isolates the mechanism from external influences
The tray opening and closing mechanism is equipped with a
shutter for greater precision and to eliminate adverse effects
from external sound pressure and vibrations on mechanical
units. When closed, the shutter mechanism is mechanically
secured to the front panel to prevent it from moving.
Brushed aluminum finish exemplifies the quality of
construction
The front, side and top panels are constructed of thick
brushed aluminum. The high-quality luxurious finish matches
the overall attention to the finest possible quality, shown in
such details as the illuminated surrounds to the control
buttons and the milled aluminum disc tray.
Features
