Nearly every aspect of the new Esoteric P-02X transport has undergone meticulous redesign and enhancement compared to the original P-02 model, including the drive mechanics control circuit and the VS-DD spindle drive servo system. Additionally, the designers successfully condensed the Grandioso P1’s dual mono chassis into a single unit without sacrificing quality. The highly esteemed VRDS-NEO disc transport mechanism retains the design principles of the Esoteric P1, complemented by a compact version of the digital circuitry and clock generator.
The P1 technology is also reflected in the power supply circuit, which incorporates four toroidal transformers that deliver power to the VS-DD servo system, drive driver, digital output stages, and clock generator. Similar to the P1, these circuits ensure cleaner and more stable DC power. Furthermore, the new ES-LINK4 interface enhances digital communication capabilities with the DAC, while an upgraded oscillator circuit provides improved accuracy, resulting in superior sound quality.
Esoteric takes great pride in its state-of-the-art VRDS-NEO disc transport, which has made remarkable strides in data reading accuracy. This enhancement is attributed to precision drive mechanics tailored for both CD and Super Audio CD formats, along with the ability to correct imperfections on disc surfaces. The latest transport model in the P-02X, the VRDS-NEO VMK-3.5-20S, features a fully revamped driver circuit. The spindle block incorporates a pair of specially selected steel ball bearings, while the duralumin carrier platter is machined to micron-level precision. Additionally, the drive bridge is constructed from 20 mm thick steel and weighs 5.2 kg (12 kg when including the sturdy steel base).
The P-02X is powered by a three-phase brushless motor, renowned for its high magnetic flux density and derived from the iconic Esoteric P-0 CD transport. It includes a new control system for the reading head feed and guide slide, ensuring that the laser beam consistently strikes the disc at the optimal angle. This is further enhanced by an exceptionally quiet mechanism for the drive compartment cover, which guarantees the utmost precision of all mechanical components. The cover automatically closes and securely locks into the front panel, effectively isolating the drive from external sound pressure and vibrations.
The VS-DD (VRDS Spindle Discrete Driver) spindle servo, integral to the P-02X, serves as the core component of the VRDS-NEO drive mechanics. It utilizes a 3-channel amplifier composed of discrete elements to optimize the current waveform supplied to the motors, thereby minimizing vibrations and ensuring smooth operation along with precise servo control. A dedicated power supply featuring a toroidal transformer is housed in a separate enclosure to prevent drive noise from affecting other circuits.
The dual-layer design within the main chassis, along with 3D structural optimization, facilitates the most efficient signal pathways. The exterior is constructed from robust aluminum panels, while the lower chassis, made of 5mm steel, is reinforced by four proprietary ESOTERIC point supports. This design minimizes vibrations and emphasizes structural rigidity. The digital outputs of the Esoteric P-02X feature three types of connectors: two ES-LINK, two XLR, and one coaxial. Notably, it includes a new dedicated ES-LINK4 interface connector with HDMI ports and dual XLR connectors that are compatible with previous ES-LINK versions.
The high-quality Organic EL Display is noted for its low power consumption, minimal noise, and seamless operation. The new RC1315 remote control, crafted from solid aluminum with a brushed finish that matches the Esoteric P-02X front panel, exudes a sense of luxury and superior quality.
Esoteric P-02X specifications:
- Super Audio CD and CD playback (CD-R/CD-RW compatible)
- Digital audio outputs:
- ES-LINK x 2
- XLR x 2 (two connectors for Dual AES format)
- Coaxial RCA x 1
- Sync signals:
- BNC x 2
- Frequencies: 44.1 kHz, 88.2 kHz, 176.4 kHz, 10 MHz, 22.5792 MHz
- Input impedance:
- IN: 75 Ohm
- 10 MHz IN: 50 Ohm
- Input level:
- IN TTL
- 10 MHz IN sine: 0.5 – 1.0 Vrms
- Sync accuracy: ±10ppm
- Power supply:
- AC 230V 50Hz
- AC 120V 60Hz
- AC 220V 60Hz
- Power consumption: 23 W
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 445 x 162 x 437 mm
- Weight: 31 kg
