Esoteric Grandioso D1X SE Reference Master Sound Discrete DAC (Pair)

Grandioso D1X SE Reference Master Sound Discrete DAC is the upgraded flagship mono digital-to-analogue converter

Grandioso D1X SE Reference Master Sound Discrete DAC is the Special Edition evolution of ESOTERIC’s reference mono DAC, engineered to set an even higher standard in digital conversion. Maintaining the same dual mono architecture and in-house 64-bit/512Fs Delta-Sigma modulator as the original D1X, the SE version refines performance through enhanced component selection, advanced power regulation, and mechanical improvements. Designed for audiophiles seeking absolute fidelity, the D1X SE offers breathtaking transparency, authority, and musical expression that surpass the already formidable performance of the original model.

Grandioso D1X SE Reference Master Sound Discrete DAC is built with enhanced aerospace-grade circuit design

Grandioso D1X SE Reference Master Sound Discrete DAC is manufactured at ESOTERIC’s own precision facility, but introduces newly selected materials and upgraded passive components to reduce microscopic distortion and improve current delivery. These refinements, derived from ongoing research into aerospace-grade and medical-grade production, ensure that every aspect of the circuit operates under optimal conditions. The result is heightened micro-detail retrieval, an even quieter noise floor, and enhanced tonal density across the entire frequency spectrum.

Grandioso D1X SE Reference Master Sound Discrete DAC is designed with refined mechanical construction

Grandioso D1X SE Reference Master Sound Discrete DAC builds upon the dual chassis architecture of the original, but integrates a newly engineered semi-floating top panel and precision-tuned chassis resonance control. This meticulous vibration management sharpens imaging, stabilises dynamics, and prevents mechanical artefacts from interfering with digital-to-analogue conversion. The updated pinpoint foot design further improves isolation, allowing the SE to deliver a presentation of music that’s even more holographic and natural.

Grandioso D1X SE Reference Master Sound Discrete DAC is equipped with next-generation ES-LINK 5 connectivity

Grandioso D1X SE Reference Master Sound Discrete DAC retains ESOTERIC’s ultra-wide ES-LINK 5 transmission system, but incorporates refinements in digital clocking with the upgraded Master Sound Discrete Clock. These refinements achieve lower phase noise and improved signal synchronisation, ensuring pristine playback of DSD at 22.5 MHz and PCM up to 768 kHz/48-bit. When integrated with ESOTERIC transports, the SE delivers a level of time-domain accuracy and tonal realism that closely parallels studio master recordings.

Grandioso D1X SE Reference Master Sound Discrete DAC is optimised for system synergy with ESOTERIC amplification

Grandioso D1X SE Reference Master Sound Discrete DAC supports ES-LINK Analog current transfer, guaranteeing superior performance when partnered with ESOTERIC’s matching amplifiers. Its asynchronous USB input provides playback of native 22.5 MHz DSD and 768 kHz/32-bit PCM sources, making the SE fully compatible with the most demanding high-resolution libraries. The integrated MQA decoder and enhanced up-conversion function allow listeners to maximise both streaming content and local digital archives, offering uncompromising versatility with refined sound quality.