N-01XD SE

The Esoteric N-01XD SE is a network audio player and digital-to-analogue converter with an in-house Master Sound Discrete DAC and a high-quality network module. The SE version incorporates further sound quality updates, with processing for CD, Super Audio CD and network audio playback designed to retain the dynamics and energy of the original master sound. Its network module is intended to produce a three-dimensional presentation similar to vinyl playback.

Master Sound Discrete DAC

Esoteric developed the Master Sound Discrete DAC as a complete circuit from carefully selected and tested discrete components, rather than using an integrated DAC chip. The circuit is designed to reproduce the full dynamics and energy of music, with Esoteric’s engineering teams responsible for its design and production.

The N-01XD SE uses the most advanced 2-channel stereo DAC circuit in Esoteric’s history, based on the circuit originally developed for the Grandioso D1X SE Monoblock D/A Converter. Each channel contains 32 separate elements, including the clock driver, logic circuitry, capacitors and resistors. These elements are kept independent, reducing loss of musical energy at the output.

Advanced Digital Processing

An Esoteric Delta-Sigma (ΔΣ) modulator supports 64-bit/512Fs audio frequency sampling. Separate FPGA* digital processing algorithms are used for DSD and PCM conversion, allowing the N-01XD SE to process the different characteristics of each format and extract the intended sound quality from CDs, Super Audio CDs and network audio.

Upgraded Analogue Circuitry

For the SE model, Esoteric refreshed the discrete components in the analogue circuitry on the DAC board. The amplifier element is the original Integrated Discrete-Amplifier Module IDM-01. Its materials, circuit patterns and layout were studied as they would be for a discrete amplifier design, while its integrated construction provides a short signal path.

The IDM-01 is joined by selected analogue components, including the analogue filter resistors and capacitors. These updates are intended to provide a more vivid live sound, audible dynamics and an organic texture.

Esoteric-HCLD Output Buffer

The Esoteric-HCLD output buffer amplifier has a high-speed slew rate of 2,000V/µs. The design concentrates on current transfer and response speed, with EDLC** supercapacitors in the buffer circuit’s power supply providing 250,000μF of capacitance per channel. This power supply arrangement supports bass reproduction and dynamic music playback.

ES-Link Analogue

Alongside conventional XLR and RCA line connections, the N-01XD SE provides Esoteric’s proprietary ES-Link Analogue current transmission system for connection to an amplifier. It transmits approximately 100 times more current than conventional voltage transmission, making the signal less susceptible to noise and transferring the energy of the music to the amplifier.

ES-Link Analogue is not affected by the impedance of the interconnects between the source device and amplifier, helping to preserve the relationship between the source output signal and amplifier input signal.

Super Audio CD Transport Connections

The N-01XD SE supports Esoteric’s ES-Link 5 ultra-wideband digital transmission standard. Compatible Esoteric Super Audio CD Transport models can be connected using either 2 HDMI cables or 1 XLR cable.

* FPGA: Field-Programmable Gate Array
** HCLD: High Current Line Driver
*** EDLC: Electric Double-layer Capacitor