Another K-01x replacing K-03

[PMCH]

I recently purchased a K-01x to replace my K-03. So far my initial impression is that I prefer it over my K-03 but there is not as much of a difference as I thought I would hear for standard quality Red Book CD's. I noticed much more improvement when playing better recorded Red Book CD's and SACDs. As shown in the attached picture, I set them both up using identical power cords and interconnects and used two identical CDs at the same time. The CDs were what I would call standard quality, Spencer Day - Mystery of You and a Jazziz sampler. They were the only two CDs that I could find that I had two of. Switching back and forth between the two decks playing the same CD at exactly the same time, my wife and myself couldn't really hear any difference between the two decks or the difference was very minor.
When I put in what I would call a better recorded CD, Cindy Bradley - Bliss, the K-01x immediately showed a sonic improvement but I did have to switch the CD between the 2 players since I only have one copy. When I tried an SACD, Jacintha - Goes to Hollywood, I also noticed sonic improvement with the K-01x but I also needed to switch this SACD between both players.
I only compared the two players for about two hours and my ears may not be the best but my wife heard the same things and she was listening blind. We only listened to CDs and SACDs.
My conclusion was that I do prefer the K-01x over the K-03 but that I need to play better recorded music to have the K-01x bring out its magic. I was very surprised at how well the K-03 held up compared with the K-01x. Just my $.02.



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[2fastdriving]

Originally Posted by PMCH

I recently purchased a K-01x to replace my K-03. So far my initial impression is that I prefer it over my K-03 but there is not as much of a difference as I thought I would hear for standard quality Red Book CD's. I noticed much more improvement when playing better recorded Red Book CD's and SACDs. As shown in the attached picture, I set them both up using identical power cords and interconnects and used two identical CDs at the same time. The CDs were what I would call standard quality, Spencer Day - Mystery of You and a Jazziz sampler. They were the only two CDs that I could find that I had two of. Switching back and forth between the two decks playing the same CD at exactly the same time, my wife and myself couldn't really hear any difference between the two decks or the difference was very minor.
When I put in what I would call a better recorded CD, Cindy Bradley - Bliss, the K-01x immediately showed a sonic improvement but I did have to switch the CD between the 2 players since I only have one copy. When I tried an SACD, Jacintha - Goes to Hollywood, I also noticed sonic improvement with the K-01x but I also needed to switch this SACD between both players.
I only compared the two players for about two hours and my ears may not be the best but my wife heard the same things and she was listening blind. We only listened to CDs and SACDs.
My conclusion was that I do prefer the K-01x over the K-03 but that I need to play better recorded music to have the K-01x bring out its magic. I was very surprised at how well the K-03 held up compared with the K-01x. Just my $.02.

I agree, I have compared them side by side and the difference was not very noticeable until I stepped up to hi-rez. I have to wonder if mine is still breaking in... the sound has changed quite a bit since I got it. It has some "ups and downs". Could be my brain.

[Masterlu]

FWIW, in my personal experience the difference between the K03 and the K01-X is profound, not subtle in any way.

There may be a weak link that is preventing the full glory of the K01-X to shine thru.

[2fastdriving]

One other thing, the K-03 is really amazing, it can hold it's own. A slightly different presentation, but very close.

[2fastdriving]

Originally Posted by Masterlu

FWIW, in my personal experience the difference between the K03 and the K01-X is profound, not subtle in any way.

There may be a weak link that is preventing the full glory of the K01-X to shine thru.

Yeah that is what I have been wondering

It's very subtle difference for me.

[Masterlu]

Originally Posted by 2fastdriving

Yeah that is what I have been wondering

It's very subtle difference for me.

Marc... we'll talk on the phone, and I'll help you identify what is holding its performance back.

[PMCH]

It seems like the only 2 CDs I have that are the same may not be the best recorded CDs so the players can only play back the quality that they are given. Everything else I played with the K-01x has sounded better. It really brings out the best of what it is given. I am streaming some music now and the K-01x is clearly the superior DAC. The K-01x is definitely a keeper.

[djwhog]

I can volunteer to play it in my system against my K03

Yes better sources, SACDs hirez and great cables it should be amazing!

Is on my bucket list too the 1x

[jdandy]

Originally Posted by PMCH

It seems like the only 2 CDs I have that are the same may not be the best recorded CDs so the players can only play back the quality that they are given. Everything else I played with the K-01x has sounded better. It really brings out the best of what it is given. I am streaming some music now and the K-01x is clearly the superior DAC. The K-01x is definitely a keeper.

Paul.......Garbage in, garbage out. .

[Billion$Baby]

Originally Posted by PMCH

I recently purchased a K-01x to replace my K-03. So far my initial impression is that I prefer it over my K-03 but there is not as much of a difference as I thought I would hear for standard quality Red Book CD's.

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You would make a terrible used car salesman. Your honesty is appreciated and thanks for sharing your experience.