Esoteric announces their new reference streamer: Grandioso N1

[Devil Horns]

The first network streamer ever in the Grandioso range and the first to debut with the second generation of their in-house Master Sound discreet DAC. Details:

• Network Streamer / DAC: Designed for High-End digital music streaming and file playback.
• 4th-Generation Esoteric Network Engine G4: Supports native DSD 22.5 MHz playback; equipped with SFP port.
• Master Sound Discrete DAC G2: New-generation FPGA based Multi-Level ΔΣ DAC, fully designed and manufactured in-house using precisely selected discrete components.
• ES-Link Analog: Esoteric’s proprietary current signal link with preamp, provides super authentic sound.
• Independent ×5 Linear Power Supplies (Dual Mono DACs/Network/Digital Audio/Microcomputer): Provides powerful clear sound.
• Low-Feedback Discrete DC Power Regulator: Contributes to live and open sound quality.
• External Power Supply Connectivity: Compatible with the Grandioso PS1, offering upgradability for even higher sound quality.
• ES-Link5: Esoteric’s proprietary ultra-wideband HDMI cable link with Grandioso P1X SE SACD transport.
• Wide Range of Digital Connectivity: ES-Link5 ×1 [L/R], USB ×1, XLR ×1, Coax ×1, Opt ×1.
• Music Server Function: Two USB drives can be connected.
• Master Sound Discrete Clock for Digital Player: Ultra-high precision internal clock circuit.
• 10MHz Clock Sync Capability: Compatible with the Grandioso G1X master clock.
• Wide Range of Supported File Formats: DSF, DSDIFF, FLAC, ALAC, WAV, AIFF, MQA, MP3, AAC.
• Esoteric Sound Stream App: Provides extremely comfortable operation on smartphone/tablet.
• Support for Multiple Streaming Services: Tidal, Tidal Connect, Qobuz, Qobuz Connect, Roon, Spotify.
• Multi-Layer Chassis: Prevents interference between circuit components.
• Semi-Floating Top Panel: Enhances sonic openness.
• Advanced Isolation Feet: Provides focused sound and an open soundstage

Link: https://www.esoteric.jp/en/product/n1/top

The N1 is also compatible with the Grandioso PS1 power supply, previously only used with the K1X/K1X SE.

Shipping this November.

I placed my order for one yesterday + the PS1 power supply to go alongside the C1X Solo preamp that I received today. Not sure what the pricing will be in other territories but the RRP here in Australia is $59,500 AUD. Keep in mind Esoteric is very well priced here so doing a currency conversion won't give you an accurate picture. The K1X SE is $55K here so use that as barometer I guess.

This to me is Esoteric taking the fight to the likes of DCS, Wadax, MSB, etc. Can't wait to hear it and find out what improvements their second generation DAC brings.

 

[costintdan]

We look forward to hearing your first impressions of the Grandioso N1.

 

[GusHiFi]

Wondered if anyone has heard or bought/received the N1? I was at a dealer demo this week in Edinburgh to hear a few things and we ended up discussing swapping my Rossini Apex for the N1.

Demo was mainly Lumin + K1X + Gryphon Pre/Power + Marten Mingus Quintet

 

[Devil Horns]

Wondered if anyone has heard or bought/received the N1? I was at a dealer demo this week in Edinburgh to hear a few things and we ended up discussing swapping my Rossini Apex for the N1.

Demo was mainly Lumin + K1X + Gryphon Pre/Power + Marten Mingus Quintet

Welcome! My N1 should be arriving any day now as it shipped from Esoteric last week. I too based my decision to order one after demoing the K1X. Also nice to see another E-02 owner.

 

[GusHiFi]

Welcome! My N1 should be arriving any day now as it shipped from Esoteric last week. I too based my decision to order one after demoing the K1X. Also nice to see another E-02 owner.

Thanks, browsed here now and then for a while but this was my first post. Love the E-02, best phono stage I've owned, part of the demo was with the Ortofon MC 90X on the dealers 1000R, not that I’m unhappy with the TKR just looking for a little bit extra, the TKR replaced a Cadenza Bronze.

I’m in Scotland, looks like we get stung price wise, N1 is 43K GBP so about 90K AUD. Other options we’ve been discussing are Lumin U2x into K-01 or K1X (kinda ruled out as I rip don’t spin SACD), used Vivaldi he’s trading in, N-01XD SE or the N1. Leaning towards the N1 as my choice, a mate has the Vivaldi stack so I can compare if/when I get a home loan.

 

[Devil Horns]

I have the original MC A90 and it pared very well with the E-02.

Regarding pricing, yes Esoteric isn't cheap but it's on par or cheaper compared to domestic pricing of the other Japanese brands such as Luxman or Accuphase, the latter of which is absurdly priced worldwide. Not sure why Esoteric is so well priced in Aus versus everywhere else. Maybe it's our close-ish proximity to Japan?

Out of the options you've listed I still have a gut feeling the N1 would be the best choice. It has the brand new G2 discreet DAC on board + the new G4 network engine that is 100% lifted from the N1T. Plus you can squeeze more out of the sound with the matching PS1 power supply, something I have opted for.