[jdandy]

Ivan.......I find it interesting that the D-02X DAC clock accuracy remains at ±0.5 ppm, the same as the clock in the K-01X, K-03X, K-01, and K-03 players. At its price point the D-02x appears to still be able to benefit in performance from the addition of the external G-02 clock. While I can appreciate what Esoteric has achieved with the D-02X DAC by compressing the monoblock design concept of Esoteric's premier Grandioso D1 into a single-unit dual mono D/A converter without compromise, it seems to me the precision of the internal clock should have been improved beyond ±0.5 ppm. It seems unusual to me that Esoteric would develop such an advanced DAC and not improve the precision of the internal clock.

Even the Grandioso D1 mono DAC has a clock precision of ±0.5 ppm, so obviously Esoteric considers that particular accuracy point more than adequate for excellent performance from their premium separate digital components. I realize Esoteric is in the business of selling electronic components and that includes external clocks. I have to admit I am surprised to see the new D-02X DAC maintains the same clock precision employed in the previous two generations of Esoteric players and DAC's. I think it would not be difficult to achieve ±0.1 ppm precision without an external clock. Apparently room remains at the $20,000 D-02X level for enhanced performance with the addition of a higher precision external clock.

I am disappointed that the G-02 clock will not be auditioned with the K-03X. Auditioning the G-02 clock with the new D-02X DAC transfers the end results into unfamiliar territory for me. Those results will not accurately reflect how the addition of the G-02 to the K-03X impacts its performance. That is where my curiosity remains.