Grandioso C1X

About the Grandioso C1X

The Esoteric Grandioso C1X is a flagship linestage preamplifier designed with uncompromising construction and advanced technology. It features a 2 chassis dual monoblock design with a semi-floating pre-amplifier module to enhance sound purity. The unit employs a DC power supply with dual AC inputs and dual DC outputs, powered by five transformers including four large toroidal-core and one R core transformer. The C1X introduces a newly developed Ultra Fidelity Attenuator System with 0.1dB resolution over 1,120 steps, and a unique Integrated Discrete Amplifier Module (IDM-01) designed exclusively for this model. It uses FET elements for input selection to eliminate mechanical contact noise and supports ES-LINK Analog current transmission on multiple inputs and outputs. The fully balanced circuit design ensures excellent signal-to-noise performance, and the volume control uses Esoteric's QVCS system with four circuits per channel for dual-mono operation. Additional features include precise input gain and balance controls, AV THRU settings for coexistence with AV amplifiers, and a high-grade aluminum remote control. The C1X is housed in a robust chassis with high-precision ball bearing knobs for superior operational feel. It is designed to be the control center of a high-end audio system, delivering dynamic, natural sound with exceptional clarity and spatial presence.