The N1T has been designed to redefine audio performance and pair seamlessly with the Grandioso D1X SE monoblock DACs and the K1X SE Super Audio CD Player with DAC, with which it promises "to unlock a new dimension of streaming playback."
Since its launch in 2013, the Grandioso series boasts several highly original technological innovations, including the legendary Super Audio CD transport mechanism VRDS-ATLAS, the Master Sound Discrete DAC and Master Sound Discrete Clock composed of unique discrete circuits, the Esoteric MagneDrive System, the MC Balanced Current Input System, and the ES-Link/ES-Link Analog signal transmission.
Designed to deliver streaming playback at its absolute finest, Grandioso N1T combines cutting-edge, unique Esoteric technology with Esoteric's unrivalled craftsmanship and a new fourth-generation network engine featuring support for an SFP port as well as a standard Ethernet socket alongside powerful processing capabilities and DSD 22.5MHz native playback support.
Esoteric states the engine and audio circuitry are meticulously engineered for complete isolation, safeguarding signal purity. Independent linear power supplies for each circuit elevate the experience further, producing a sound that is "strikingly smooth, lifelike, and reminiscent of the feeling of vinyl playback."
The Esoteric Sound Stream App offers simple control of the N1T from a mobile device and supports multiple streaming services, including Tidal, Qobuz, Roon, and Spotify. Meanwhile, all the expected file formats are supported, such as FLAC, ALAC, WAV, MQA, AIFF, etc. and sample rates of PCM: 44.1k -768kHz, 16/24/32bit (32bit integer / 32bit float format) and DSD: 2.8MHz, 5.6MHz, 11.2MHz, 22.5MHz.
The Grandioso N1T seamlessly integrates into a wide range of high-performance audio systems thanks to several digital outputs, including ES-LINK (L/R), USB port (USB2.0) TYPE-A (maximum current supply: 0.5A), XLR (110Ω), and RCA Coax (75Ω). The XLR/RCA output is good for PCM 44.1-192 kHz, 16/24bit, DSD 2.8MHz (DoP).
Although already sporting a Master Sound Discrete Clock ultra-high precision internal clock circuit, the rear panel is also home to a BNC Clock Input, enabling it to connect to a 10MHz Clock, such as the Grandioso G1X master clock. Completing the IO offerings are two USB drive inputs (Type-A and Type-C), making the N1T a music server.
Naturally, Esoteric would prefer that you make it part of a complete Grandioso stack consisting of six units – Grandioso N1T, P1X SE, D1X SE and G1X – for the ultimate omni-digital source system. Pair it with the Grandioso D1X SE flagship monoblock DACs for the ultimate three-unit flagship-level streaming experience, connect it to the Grandioso K1X SE, or pair it with your favourite DAC.
Tipping the scales at 23.1kg and measuring 132x445x448mm [HxWxD], the Esoteric N1T features a multi-layer chassis designed to prevent interference between circuit components and a semi-floating top panel, which we are told "enhances sonic openness". Finally, the whole unit is supported by "advanced isolation feet" that are said to provide a focused sound and an open soundstage.
The Esoteric Grandioso N1T will be internationally available for shipment in March 2025 and priced at €35.000/£34,999.
Visit Esoteric for more information
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Posted in: Hi-Fi | StereoLUX!
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