Player or Transport

There are no radical differences between the Player and Transport models as they both are fitted with the Esoteric UMK5 and have the same PCB Power stage. However the treatment of the PCB in the Transport model is slightly different: firstly it does not have an analog output and as a result data transfer speeds are greater as neither digital to analog conversion nor upsampling is required. The analogue design also helps to improve and bring extra focus to the digital stage transmission. In addition, the Transport model was developed after the Privilege SACD Player and thus we had the possibility to improve and increase its capacity in order to decrease fluctuation that was created by some networks. Nevertheless, at the end of the day, it is important to mention that both products are close to perfection, performing to the highest level, with the Transport model meeting the highest expectations of the most demanding audiophile.

Introduction

Our philosophy in creating the transport model was the same as for the rest of the line: "Elegance of detail must be reflective of performance". Therefore the case has been produced from a unique, homogeneous 100 kg cast aluminium block. This process creates a natural and particular colour that is unwavering over time. The front panel comprises an LCD display, six buttons, one LED indicator and a CD slot. The interior architecture has been completely redesigned to ensure optimal sound reproduction by bringing the distance between different parts to a minimum. The SACD Player is equipped with an Esoteric CD/SACD UMK-5 mechanism. All electronics are synchronized with our "ultra low jitter master clock" module, which monitors, with the highest precision, the PLL circuits in order to synchronize both the CD mechanism and the remaining electronic components that function at different frequencies. The design prevents signal interpolation as well as data loss.

A ticket to the future

The SACD Player comes with a USB input enabling it to be used as a soundcard on PC and MAC. The design allows for it to evolve with new technologies. It also has a second USB port the function of which is dedicated to updating the firmware.

Sound reproduction

The SACD Player's sound reproduction is ultra clear throughout the frequency spectrum and thereby it has an astonishingly transparent sound image. It is capable of conveying all the emotions and colours of every CD and SACD recording. “The player's aesthetics combined with its sound reproduction makes it a true piece of art.”