The X-01D2 is the new top end of the highly acclaimed "X" series which includes the "X-01 and X-01 Limited" audio players and the "UX-1 Limited" audio/video player. The newly designed X-01D2 was developed for the audiophile whose passion includes the ultimate in PCM decoding and SACD/DSD native playback. The D2 includes a refined version of the VRDS-NEO (Vibration free rigid disc clamping system), and the disc tracking sled assembly from Esoteric's P-03 disc transport. The multi-bit D/A converter includes a dual quad differential implementation for complete left and right channel separation. As in the X-01 and X-01 Limited, four DACs per channel are used (Burr-Brown 1704 x 4 + 4), and each set of four is configured on separate left and right circuit boards. In addition to multi-bit D/A technology, the D2 includes native direct stream digital (DSD) decoding using 1 bit signal processing converter chips (Analog Devices AD1955), and allows optional PCM to DSD and DSD to PCM signal conversion capability.
X-01D2 technology evolves from Esoteric's separate components used in the P-03/D-03 playback system. A new disc tray shutter mechanism has been included for reduction of external noise and airborne contaminants. Other features include WORD clock input, i.LINK terminal with flow rate control, digital and analog multi-channel audio outputs, "nextgen™" RCA terminals, dedicated unbalanced and balanced audio outputs for 2 channel playback, a coreless spindle motor and Esoteric's neodymium magnet system. Unlike most CD/SACD players, the use of VRDS-NEO, combined with Esoteric's proprietary disc tracking assembly, eliminates off axis error-correction because no off axis data retrieval is allowed.
