Hi-Fi

Esoteric introduced new models in the Grandioso series

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January 10, 2023

Japanese high-end reference component manufacturer Esoteric has expanded its Grandioso flagship electronics series with the new C1X solo preamplifier and S1X stereo power amplifier .

The C1X solo preamp is an evolution of the C1X and inherits the Ultra Fidelity Attenuator, which allows you to change the volume on a 1120-step scale at 0.1dB per step. The output stages feature Esoteric’s proprietary HCLD (High Current Line Driver) concept on IDM-01 modules. All preamp switching is analog – there are no DACs or network streamers onboard the Esoteric C1X solo. Esoteric’s proprietary ES-LINK Analog interface is used to connect to Esoteric power amplifiers. There is also a regular balanced output on XLR connectors.

The power amplifier is also a descendant of the S1 and operates in pure class A, delivering 50 watts into 8 ohms and 100 watts into 4 ohms. The amplifier can be used in two versions – as a stereo power amplifier and for bi-amping with speakers that allow this type of switching. The power consumption of the amp is 310 watts.

The Esoteric C1X solo preamplifier should go on sale in February. In Japan, the recommended retail price of new items will be 2.2 million yen , which at the current exchange rate approximately corresponds to 1,170,000 dollars. The Esoteric S1X power amplifier will be available a little later – by the end of March. The price in Japan will be 3.3 million yen or 1,755,000 dollars.