VRDS (Vibration-Free Rigid Disc-Clamping System) is Esoteric’s proprietary CD/Super Audio CD transport technology. The system securely clamps the disc to a same-diameter turntable, suppressing rotational vibration as well as unwanted vibration generated by the mechanism itself. It also corrects disc warpage, significantly improving the alignment accuracy between the optical pickup and the disc’s pit layer while minimizing servo current. The result is a dramatic reduction in disc read errors, enabling exceptionally accurate signal retrieval and outstanding sound quality.

The VRDS-ATLAS platform boasts unprecedented mechanical perfection and superlative audio quality, with heavyweight construction (6.6kg for the mechanism alone, and 13.5kg including its base). This high rigidity and weight have the effect of greatly reducing any and all vibration that could adversely affect audio quality. The transport's large side panels and bridge are all formed of SS400 steel, and its turntable is made from duralumin, which is designed for its excellent sound quality. Also, its spindle features a specially designed thrust bearing system, for a friction-free one-point spindle support system that ensures smooth, noiseless turntable rotation.

Esoteric’s impressive VRDS-ATLAS is the quietest and most elegant transport in the history of VRDS. The key to achieving this was a resolute focus on mechanical grounding technology that more effectively reduces vibration.
Adopting a wide & low-profile design for the entire mechanism helped achieve a lower center-of-gravity, and relocating the turntable motor from its previous position above the bridge to a position beneath the turntable dramatically shortens the vibration path to ground, helping to reduce mechanical noise. The tray opening has also been minimized to increase structural rigidity, and special stoppers made from vibration-absorbing elastomer cancel out resonance when the tray is stored.
The VRDS-ATLAS transport mechanism is centrally mounted on a 5 mm-thick steel base chassis, effectively suppressing vibrations generated by the transport mechanism.

Bringing Out All the Dynamics and Energy of Music

Esoteric Master Sound Discrete DAC G2 is a fully in-house-designed, FPGA-based, multi-level ΔΣ (delta-sigma) D/A converter built with meticulously selected discrete components. The ultimate goal of this unique architecture is to effortlessly reproduce the true dynamics and power of music, far surpassing the limitations of conventional DAC IC chips. Its large-scale circuit design comprises 32 elements per channel and features completely independent key components, including clock drivers, logic circuits, capacitors, and resistors. Breathtakingly powerful, dynamic, and musical, this architecture delivers the ultimate pure listening experience, without compromise.

Esoteric Master Sound Discrete DAC G2 supports the latest high-resolution digital formats, including 22.5 MHz DSD and 768 kHz PCM signals. To achieve D/A conversion that fully matches the unique characteristics of both DSD and PCM, dedicated FPGA* digital processing algorithms have been independently developed for each format. This ensures the finest sonic performance from any type of digital source.
*FPGA: Field-Programmable Gate Array

The second-generation Master Sound Discrete DAC G2 is the result of our commitment to achieving new heights in sound quality.

1 New Low-Noise Resistor Network
In a DAC, the resistor network is a critical circuit that converts the digital signal generated by the FPGA into an analog signal through precision resistor elements. For the new G2 version of the DAC, the circuit responsible for switching the resistor elements on and off is simplified and optimized. In addition, capacitors placed in close proximity to the resistor network improve current supply stability, enabling the generation of purer analog signals with significantly reduced noise.

2 Even Purer Separate Power Supply Lines
A new approach was adopted that involved separating the power supply lines for the FPGA and the other digital domain circuits, as well as the hot and cold power supplies for the analog domains. Each section is powered by its own power regulator. Reconstructing the power lines further improved sound purity.

3 Dual Buffer Circuit Equivalent to the Grandioso D1X SE
The analog output buffer amplifier, Esoteric-HCLD (High Current Line Driver), boasts an astonishing high-speed slew rate of 2,000 V/μs. The number of HCLD components has been doubled, implementing the same dual-buffer configuration (four circuits per channel) as used in the Grandioso D1X SE. This design further strengthens current output, delivering ultra-fast attack and enhanced dynamics.

The DAC circuit’s core resistor elements employ industrial-grade, ultra-high-precision MELF resistors to maximize processing accuracy. In addition, the analog filter section incorporates Esoteric’s proprietary IDM-01 amplification element. The IDM-01, meticulously designed by Esoteric engineers, was developed through rigorous evaluation of materials, circuit patterns, and layout – much like a discrete amplifier. It amplifies music both dynamically and delicately. By integrating the IDM-01 with other carefully selected discrete components, the Grandioso K1XE achieves sound quality marked by vivid live presence, superb dynamics, and an organic, natural texture.

In a discrete DAC, where component tolerances are directly linked to processing precision, highly advanced quality control is essential in the manufacture of electronic circuit boards. Esoteric’s in-house factory employs some of the world’s most advanced board-mounting technologies, including soldering performed in an oxygen-free furnace located within a clean room maintained at hospital operating-room levels of cleanliness. The technologies cultivated through the production of circuit boards for the audio, medical, aerospace, and defense industries ensure the exceptional manufacturing quality of the Master Sound Discrete DAC G2.

In addition to conventional line-level connections (XLR and RCA), the amplifier can also be connected via ES-Link Analog, Esoteric’s proprietary current-transmission system. ES-Link Analog is the ideal method for high-end audio signal transmission. Compared with conventional voltage transmission, ES-Link Analog delivers approximately 100 times more current, allowing the full energy of the musical signal to reach the amplifier. Also, it is not affected by the impedance of the interconnects running between the source and amplifier, so it maintains a perfect integrity between the output signal of the source and the input signal to the amplifier.

The Grandioso K1XE’s robust power supply design is central to its powerful, three-dimensional sound and lifelike sound. Following the design philosophy of the flagship Grandioso series, this stereo unit features a true dual-mono configuration with independent power transformers for the left and right DACs.
In total, the system incorporates five transformers: one each for the left and right DACs, one for the transport mechanism, one for the digital circuitry, and one for the microcontroller circuitry. Driving each section with a dedicated linear power supply produces a smooth, realistic sound reminiscent of vinyl playback. The key power supply section employs a Low-Feedback DC Regulator with a discrete configuration that eliminates the use of integrated circuits. By minimizing feedback, the Grandioso K1XE achieves a powerful, open, and natural sound.

Internal construction (top)

Internal construction (bottom)

Specially designed as a high-performance external power supply for the analog circuitry (D/A converter section) of the Grandioso K1XE and the Grandioso N1, the Grandioso PS1XE is equipped with four powerful, independent power transformers.
In the standard Grandioso K1XE configuration, the D/A converter section and buffer amplifier section are powered by a single transformer for each channel. When the Grandioso PS1XE is connected, the power supplies for the D/A converter and buffer amplifier sections are separated, with two independent transformers dedicated to each channel, creating an even more sophisticated and powerful power supply configuration.
This separation minimizes mutual interference between circuit sections, while the expanded power supply architecture provides an abundant and stable supply of DC power. The result is richer tonal expression and a significant improvement in signal-to-noise performance.

Note: The previous-generation Grandioso PS1 external power supply is also fully compatible with the new Grandioso K1XE.

^{Grandioso K1XE + Grandioso PS1XE}

---

It is no exaggeration to say that the clock circuitry is the biggest key to high sound quality in digital music reproduction. For its flagship master clock generator Grandioso G1X, Esoteric has perfected its own in-house manufactured OCXO clock module, the Master Sound Discrete Clock. The Master Sound Discrete Clock for Digital Player used in the Grandioso K1XE applies the basic design concept of Grandioso G1X’s in-house manufactured OCXO module to the internal clock of the digital player models. The unique circuit design using carefully selected discrete components, such as a large crystal oscillator, achieves high sound quality that reflects Esoteric’s philosophy in every detail, which cannot be achieved with an off-the-shelf clock module.

The Grandioso K1XE can be connected to the Grandioso G1X external master clock generator, enhancing sound quality by synchronizing its internal circuitry to an even more precise 10MHz reference clock.

^{Grandioso K1XE ＋ Grandioso G1X}

Flexible Connectivity for Digital Sources

---

In addition to AES/EBU (XLR) and optical inputs, the K1XE features an asynchronous USB-B port supporting DSD 22.5MHz and PCM 384kHz/32-bit resolution. All digital inputs to the DACs are routed through isolator circuits to eliminate noise interference. The Grandioso K1XE also includes a digital filter switching function (ES-Link 5 input: Rdot/off; other inputs: Fir/Rdot/off) and a PCM-to-DSD conversion function. These features allow users to customize sound quality according to their preferences.

Grandioso N1T: Network Audio Transport Connectivity

---

The Grandioso K1XE supports Esoteric’s proprietary ES-Link 5 ultra-wideband digital transmission standard and can connect to Grandioso N1T network audio transport using two HDMI cables. By connecting the Grandioso N1T to the Grandioso K1XE, you can enjoy both Super Audio CD and network sources, taking full advantage of the outstanding sound quality of the Grandioso K1XE's built-in Master Sound Discrete DAC G2.

^{Grandioso N1T + Grandioso K1XE}

ES-Link 5
ES-Link 5 is an ultra-wideband digital interface developed exclusively by Esoteric. The ES-Link 5 supports up to 22.5MHz DSD or 768kHz/48-bit PCM using two HDMI cables. The HDMI multi-cable configuration is used for the transmission of fully balanced audio data, LR clock and bit clock signals. Unlike conventional digital transmission, no processing is required for signal modulation at the sending end or for demodulation at the receiving end, thus significantly reducing the digital processing load on the DAC to achieve pure digital transmission.

Architectural Sophistication

Chassis Construction

---

To achieve its ultimate design goal of “Reproducing The Master Sound”, the Grandioso K1XE chassis optimally controls all vibrations that affect sound quality. The mechanical engineering of the chassis is comparable to that of a Formula 1 car, with the balance between rigidity and flexibility pushed to the limit. The sleek and clean shape of the chassis is a testament to its high level of perfection. The cabinet, which requires rigidity, extensively utilizes heavyweight aluminum blocks to ensure no resonance, while the top panel features a semi-floating structure for a more open sound.

Multi-Layer Construction

---

The double-layer structure of the chassis interior ensures the shortest possible signal path for optimal sonic performance. The audio boards are located primarily on the top layer, while the power circuits and transformers are located on the bottom layer. This configuration shields the audio circuitry from magnetic flux leakage and vibration while effectively minimizing the power supply wiring.

Unique Pinpoint Isolation Foot _{(Patent No. JP 4075477, 3778108, and 7413773)}

---

Esoteric’s unique patented isolation foot, which integrates a spike and spike pad, has been further refined and developed. Suspended from the lower chassis, the top of the foot connects to the lower chassis under the weight of the unit when placed. The top of the foot has been tapered to a conical shape to minimize the contact area between the chassis and the foot. The bottom of the foot (integral spike pad) is also concave in a ring shape so that it touches the floor only at the edges, with added slots to disperse resonant modes. By minimizing the contact area between the chassis and the foot, as well as between the spike pad and the floor, vibration control has been optimized, resulting in sharper focus and a more open sound.

Double-Face Remote Control

---

A compact and simple remote control is included that can also operate Esoteric amplifiers. The functional design features buttons used for each operation scenario on both sides of the remote control, and the smartphone-sized aluminum body, which fits comfortably in the hand, is achieved through advanced metal processing. Esoteric’s new approach is a design that allows you to experience thoughtful operability and craftsmanship every time you pick it up.

Double-Face Remote RC-1333 (Top / Bottom)

Spec description

Playable disc types	Super Audio CD, CD (including CD-R and CD-RW)
Analog audio outputs
XLR/ES-Link Analog	1 pair (L/R)
Output impedance	50Ω (XLR)
Maximum output level	5.0Vrms
RCA	1 pair (L/R)
Output impedance	18Ω
Maximum output level	2.5Vrms
Audio performance	(when Super Audio CD at 0 dB, DSDF is F2, XLR output)
Frequency response	5Hz to 30kHz (–3dB)
S/N ratio	113dB
Distortion	0.001% (1kHz)
Digital audio output
XLR	1
Output level	3.0 Vp-p (into 110 Ω)
Output signal format
Linear PCM	44.1 kHz, 16bit (AES/EBU)
Digital audio inputs
ES-LINK	1 pair (L/R)
Input signal formats
Linear PCM	44.1 to 768kHz, 48bit (ES-LINK5)
DSD	2.8MHz, 5.6MHz, 11.2MHz, 22.5MHz (ES-LINK5)
XLR	1
Input level	5.0Vp-p
Input impedance	110Ω
Input signal formats
Linear PCM	32 to 192 kHz, 16bit / 24 bit (AES/EBU)
DSD	2.8 MHz (ES-LINK1, ES-LINK2, DoP)
OPTICAL	1
Input level	–24.0 to –14.5 dBm peak
Input signal formats
Linear PCM	32 to 192 kHz, 16 bit / 24 bit (IEC60958)
DSD	2.8 MHz (DoP)
USB	1 (TYPE-B), USB2.0 or higher recommended
Input signal formats
Linear PCM	44.1 to 384 kHz, 16 bit / 24 bit / 32 bit
DSD	2.8 MHz, 5.6 MHz, 11.2 MHz, 22.5 MHz
Clock Input
BNC	1
Input impedance	50Ω
Frequency that can be input	10MHz (±10ppm)
Input level
Rectangle wave	TTL level equivalent
Sine wave	0.5 to 1.0 Vrms
External control input
TRIGGER IN	1 (3.5mm mono mini jack)
Input level	12V, 1mA
General
Power supply
Model for Europe	AC 220–230 V, 50/60 Hz
Model for USA/Canada	AC 120 V, 60 Hz
Power consumption	29W (standby: 0.3W)
External dimensions (WxHxD)	445mm x 162mm x 447mm / 17 ⅝" × 6 ½" × 17 ⅝" (including protrusions)
Weight	34.3kg / 75 ⅝ lb
Included accessories	Power cord × 1 Remote control (RC-1333) × 1 Batteries for remote control (AA) × 2 Caps (for DC IN) × 2 Owner’s manual × 1 Warranty card × 1

* Design and specification are subject to change without notice.