X01 D2

About the X01 D2

The Esoteric X-01 D2 is a high-end SACD/CD player designed for audiophiles with a passion for superior digital audio reproduction. It represents a significant evolution in the X-01 series, incorporating native direct stream digital (DSD) decoding capability alongside traditional PCM playback. The unit features Esoteric's proprietary VRDS-NEO transport mechanism with a coreless spindle motor, ceramic ball bearings, and precision disc clamping system to minimize vibration and ensure accurate data retrieval. The D2 employs a dual differential implementation with four Burr-Brown PCM1704 DACs per channel for stereo playback, complemented by Analog Devices AD1955 1-bit DSD decoder chips for native DSD signal processing. Unlike earlier X-01 models that converted DSD to PCM, the D2 handles DSD natively, delivering enhanced musicality and flow. The unit is fully balanced with dedicated unbalanced and balanced audio outputs for 2-channel playback, plus multi-channel RCA outputs. It includes a precision shutter mechanism to reduce external noise and airborne contamination, and is housed in a precision-machined aluminum chassis with proprietary footers and integral spikes. The X-01 D2 is no longer manufactured.