Brand: Esoteric
The Esoteric X-03 (3SE) is a high-end digital-to-analog converter and preamp/headphone amplifier created by the Japanese company Esoteric. It is part of their expanded S-03 lineup, which includes a controller, transport, and power supply.The X-03 (3SE) features a dual-monocrystal clock oscillator for ultra-low jitter, as well as an advanced hybrid analog output circuit that utilizes both discrete bipolar transistors and Esoteric's proprietary FET-input operational amplifiers. The Jitter Eliminator circuitry is designed to eliminate ultra-low-level noise components, while the new ES-Link II USB input provides up to 24bit/384kHz resolution.The preamp section has a detachable volume control knob that utilizes a high-quality Alps RK27 three-stage potentiometer, while the headphone amplifier offers up to 3.5 watts per channel for high-impedance headphones. The X-03 (3SE) also features balanced and unbalanced output connectors, as well as MC/MM manipulation capability when used with an external phono stage.Overall, the Esoteric X-03 (3SE) is a highly sophisticated and advanced audio component that delivers exceptional sound quality and versatility for digital audio sources.