[tdelahanty]

Originally Posted by Formerly YB-2

The other BIG difference between the K-03X and K-05X is the transport. Not sure if the K-05X is an 'off-shelf' transport upgraded by Esoteric (Teac), but the K-03X transport is definitely a custom unit. Difference in weight between the two is 61# vs 41#, which is significant and likely split primarily between the transport & power supply.

Am also a 'physical media' person and am trying to decide between the two Esoteric mentioned, an Accuphase DP-560 (~50% more than a K-03X) or a McIntosh MCD550. Am leaning towards the K-05X as its slimmer chassis fits my system better and my ears have started rolling off above 15KHz and not sure I'll hear the difference.

The K05 players have an "in house" custom transport but it is not as good as the K03's transport.