The Esoteric D-02X uses 32 (16 + 16) DAC circuits to achieve its low noise and phenomenal linearity. Its AK4490 chipsets are produced by Asahi Kasei Microdevices. In addition to directly processing DSD signals, a new 36-bit D/A processing algorithm performs analog conversion of the PCM signal at 36-bit resolution for smooth, delicately detailed high-resolution sound quality.
ESOTERIC-HCLD*: Esoteric’s Exclusive Output Buffer Delivers Powerful Direct Current Transmission
High-speed current transmission capacity is the most important factor in an analog output circuit’s ability to transmit the wide dynamic range of a musical signal without loss. Extensive resources invested in the D-02X’s output buffer amplifier circuitry greatly extend the limits of its performance as a line driver. Featuring high current output capacity, its high-performance elements boast an exceptionally high slew rate of 2,000V/μs as an indicator of its remarkable response speed. The D-02X’s top-tier buffer circuit configuration features four RCA output circuits and two circuits each for the XLR outputs’ hot and cold terminals. By maximizing its capacity to deliver instantaneous current output, the D-02X reproduces the full dynamics of music with breathtaking realism.
*HCLD=High Current Line Driver
In addition to playback at a source’s original sampling frequency, the D-02X also features PCM up-conversion capability (2x, 4x, 8x) and PCM-to-DSD conversion that uses a proprietary algorithm to convert the PCM signal to fixed 11.2MHz DSD, enabling significantly smoother musical reproduction.
A BNC cable connects the D-02X to the P-02X to provide a master clock sync signal for synchronized playback with minimized jitter. Esoteric’s proprietary Direct Master Clock LINK* synchronizes the two units while eliminating the need for Phase-Locked Loop (PLL), enabling clear and accurate stereo imaging and crisp sound quality. The system can be further upgraded with the addition of an optional high-accuracy G-01 Rubidium Master Clock Generator and supports a wide range of frequencies including master clocks (22MHz/10MHz) and word clocks (44.1kHz/88.2kHz/176.4kHz).
*DMCL (Direct Master Clock LINK): DMCL links the D-02X to the P-02X with a 22.5792MHz reference clock signal that causes the two units to function as a single integrated device. Compared to normal ‘sync’ systems, which generally require PLL (Phase Lock Loop) processing of the transmitted clock signal, DMCL provides simpler and more direct clocking between multiple devices.
In addition to playback at a source’s original sampling frequency, the D-02X also features PCM up-conversion capability (2x, 4x, 8x) and PCM-to-DSD conversion that uses a proprietary algorithm to convert the PCM signal to fixed 11.2MHz DSD, enabling significantly smoother musical reproduction.
As phase can be digitally inverted in a contactless system, either Hot 2 or Hot 3 can be selected with no deterioration in sound quality.
Esoteric D-02X Specs:
Digital audio inputs | |
ES-LINK | 1 |
Input signal format | Linear PCM (ES-LINK4 format) |
352.8kHz/384kHz 48bit | |
DSD (ES-LINK4 format) | |
XLR | 1 |
Input level | 5.0Vp-p |
Inputimpedance | 110Ω |
Input signal format (DUAL connection) |
32k to 384kHz, 16bit to 24bit |
Linear PCM (DUAL AES format) | |
32k to 192kHz 48bit (ES-LINK3 format) | |
DSD (ES-LINK1, ES-LINK2 format) | |
Input signal format (SINGLE connection) |
32k to 192kHz, 16bit to 24bit |
Linear PCM (DUAL AES format) | |
DSD (ES-LINK1, ES-LINK2 format) | |
RCA | 2 |
Input level | 0.5Vp-p |
Input impedance | 75Ω |
Input signal format | 32k to 192kHz, 16bit to 24bit |
Linear PCM (IEC60958 format) | |
OPTICAL | 1 |
Input level | –24.0 to –14.5dBm peak |
Input signal format | 32k to 192kHz, 16bit to 24bit |
Linear PCM (IEC60958 format) | |
USB | 1 |
Input signal format | Linear PCM 44.1k to 384kHz, 16bit to 32bit |
DSD 2.8MHz, 5.6MHz, 11.2MHz | |
Analog audio outputs | |
XLR | 1 pair (stereo) |
Output impedance | 140Ω |
Maximum output level | 5.0Vrms (1kHz, full scale into 10kΩ) |
RCA | 1 pair (stereo) |
Output impedance | 60Ω |
Maximum output level | 2.5Vrms (1kHz, full scale into 10kΩ) |
Clock input | |
BNC | 2 (WORD IN, 10MHz IN) |
Input impedance | |
CLOCK IN | 75Ω |
10MHz IN | 50Ω |
Input level | |
CLOCK IN | Equal to TTL level |
10MHz IN | Sine wave: 0.5 to 1.0Vrms |
Input frequency compatibility | |
CLOCK IN | 44.1k, 48k, 88.2k, 96k, 176.4k, 192kHz, 22.5792MHz, 24,576MHz (±10ppm) |
10MHz IN | 10MHz (±10ppm) |
Clock output | |
BNC | 1 |
Output level | Equal to TTL level (into 75Ω load) |
Output frequency | 44.1k, 48k, 88.2k, 96k, 176.4k, 192kHz, 22.5792MHz, 24,576MHz Same frequency as input (when output set to thru) |
Output frequency precision | ±0.5ppm (when shipped new) |
General | |
Power supply | |
AC 230V, 50Hz | |
AC 120V, 60Hz | |
AC 220V, 60Hz | |
Power consumption | 24W |
External dimensions (W×H×D) | 445 × 162 × 437mm 17-⅝” × 6-½” × 17-¼” (including protrusions) |
Weight | 27kg / 59-⅝ lb |