Tokyo, JP — Esoteric is pleased to announce the launch of two new products: the Network DAC Preamplifier “N-05XE” and the Class A Stereo Power Amplifier “S-05XE“—Esoteric’s best-selling combo that has evolved into the new “XE” series. The product will be available for international shipment in Spring 2026.
Introducing the N-05XE
The N-05XE network DAC preamplifier features next-generation discrete DAC and network engine technologies for even higher sound quality.
Designed to deliver the highest sound quality in the smallest possible system configuration, the N-05XE features an optical network-compatible G4 network engine and a next-generation G2 discrete DAC. It also has a dual balanced preamplifier derived directly from the Grandioso models along with a high-quality built-in headphone amplifier.The “XE” model retains its acclaimed functionality while meticulously refining every circuit component through a newly optimized design. Enjoy the refined Esoteric signature sound to your heart’s content.
N-05XE System Configuration
- D/A Converter: Equipped with a wide range of digital inputs
- Network Streamer: Designed for streaming and music file playback
- Dual-Mono, Dual Balanced Preamplifier
- Dual-Mono, Parallel Single-Ended Headphone Amplifier
- Fully Dual-Mono Construction: All analog and power supply circuits are completely L/R independent
Master Sound Discrete DAC G2
- Next Generation “G2” DAC: With richer musicality, incorporating the Grandioso N1 technologies
- Highly Advanced Multilevel ΔΣ D/A Converter: Powered by 64-bit/512Fs ΔΣ modulator
- FPGA-Based Discrete Circuit Configuration: Without using an off-the-shelf DAC IC
- Two Independent FPGA Digital Processing Algorithms: Optimized separately for PCM and DSD formats
- Low-noise New Register Network: Provides cleaner imaging and lower noise
- High Precision MELF Resistor Elements: Ensures ultra-high D to A conversion accuracy
- Fully Dual-Mono Configuration: Left/right independent analog and power supply circuits
- “Master Sound Discrete Clock for Digital Player”: Esoteric’s proprietary high-precision clock circuit
Esoteric Network Engine G4
- Next Generation Network Streaming Engine: Supports optical network connections via SFP port
- Dedicated Large Linear Power Supply: Contributes to smooth, vinyl-like, and richly detailed sound
- Native DSD 22.5 MHz Playback Support
- Music Server Function: Supports connection of up to two USB drives
- Wide Range of Supported File Formats: DSF, DSDIFF, FLAC, ALAC, WAV, AIFF, MQA, MP3, AAC
- Esoteric Sound Stream App: Provides extremely comfortable operation on smartphone/tablet
- OpenHome Compliant: Can be controlled using compatible OpenHome applications
- Support for Multiple Streaming Services: Tidal Connect, Qobuz Connect, Roon, Spotify Connect, QQ Music
Dual-Mono, Dual Balanced Preamplifier
- High-Fidelity Dual-Mono, Dual Balanced Circuit: Consists of 8 circuits (L/R, hot/cold independent)
- Dedicated Attenuator Power Supply: Contributes to pure volume control
- HCLD High-Current Buffer Amplifier: Powerfully drives downstream equipment with no sound quality difference regardless of preamp output, line output, or headphone output
- ES-Link Analog: Esoteric’s proprietary current signal link with amplifier, provides super authentic sound
- ES-Link Analog input ×1
Dual-Mono, Parallel Single-Ended Headphone Amplifier
- Completely New Circuit Design: Developed for even higher sound quality
- Dual-Mono Parallel Single-Ended Amplification: Provides excellent drive capability and control
- 1,200 mW + 1,200 mW Output (32 Ω Load)
- 4-Pin XLR and 6.3mm Headphone Outputs
Other Features
- Front USB Type-C Port: Functions as a DAC input for smartphones and DAPs
- ES-Link (XLR) Input: Provides digital connectivity to Esoteric SACD transport models
- 10 MHz Clock Input: Enables connection to the G-05 external master clock for further sound quality enhancement
- Bluetooth® Receiver: Supports various high definition codecs; LDAC、Qualcomm® aptX™ HD、LHDC
- Fixed Line Output Mode / AV Pass-Through Output Mode
- High-Rigidity Aluminum Chassis Construction: Optimized for effective vibration control
- Semi-Floating Top Panel: Enhances sonic openness and spatial expression
- Patented Pinpoint Isolation Feet: Deliver focused imaging and an open soundstage
- Proudly Made in Tokyo
Introducing the S-05XE
Advanced Pure Class A Stereo Amplifier
The finest transparency unique to Class A operation and the richly scaled, three-dimensional soundstage that is a hallmark of Esoteric come together to create an unparalleled listening experience. Featuring a newly designed, fully symmetrical balanced input buffer amplifier, a large 1,000 VA toroidal-core power transformer, and a unique dual-mono power-supply smoothing circuit, the refined S-05XE establishes a new benchmark in Class A stereo power amplification. Experience the polished, expanded Esoteric signature sound in its full expression.
S-05XE Key Features
- Simple. Pure. Straightforward. Circuit design philosophy inherited from Esoteric’s Grandioso amplifiers
- The Class A Clarity and Detail Meet Hyper Dynamics — Esoteric’s hallmark sonic signature
- High-Power Bipolar Transistor in a Three-Parallel Push-Pull Configuration
- 30W per Channel Into 8Ω (Class A) / 60W per Channel Into 4Ω / 120W Into 8Ω (BTL)
- Monoblock-Level Performance in a Stereo Chassis: Fully dual-mono construction, including power-supply smoothing circuits
- Minimal NFB (Negative Feedback): Contributes to a lively, dynamic sound
- Large 1,000 VA Toroidal-Core Power Transformer: Delivers enhanced dynamic performance
- New Power Supply Smoothing Circuit: Enhances L/R independence and channel separation
- “Grandioso Grade” Custom Capacitors: 10,000μF × 4 pcs per channel
- New “Fully Symmetrical Balanced Input Buffer Amplifier”: Blocks noise and produces meticulously detailed sound
- ES-Link Analog Input: Esoteric’s proprietary current-signal transmission for ultra-authentic sound
- Triple Drive Mode Switch (Stereo / BTL / Bi-Amp): Supports multi-amplifier system configurations
- DC Trigger: For sequential power on/off with the N-05XE
- Esoteric’s Patented Isolation Feet and Semi-Floating Top Panel: Contribute to an open and natural sonic character
- Wave-Shaped Heat Sink: Reduces peak resonance for a more neutral response
- New Top Panel Design: Inspired by the “Dual Honeycomb Grille” design of the Grandioso amplifiers
- Proudly Made in Tokyo
Both products will be available in silver and black finishes. Recommended retail prices (RRPs), irrespective of finish, are $13,000 USD for the N-05XE and $13,500 USD for the S-05X.
Specifications
N-05XE Specifications
Network Section:
Ethernet Port × 1
SFP Port × 1
USB Drive Ports × 2
(Type-A、Type-C)
Clock Input:
BNC×1
Frequency Response:
5Hz to 30kHz (-3dB)
S/N Ratio:
109dB (A-Weight)
Distortion:
0.001% (1kHz)
Supported Bluetooth
LDAC, LHDC, Qualcomm®aptX ™ HD audio, Qualcomm®aptX ™
Power Supply:
AC 220–240 V, 50/60 Hz (Europe)
AC 120 V, 60 Hz (US/Canada)
AC 220 V, 60 Hz (Korea)
AC 230 V, 50 Hz (Hong Kong)
Codecs:
Audio, AAC, SBC
Digital Audio Inputs:
XLR × 1
RCA × 2
Optical × 2
USB × 2 (Type-B、Type-C)
Power Consumption:
30W (Stand-by: 0.3W)
External Dimensions
445×131×377mm
(W×H×D):
(Including Protrusions）
Analog Audio Inputs:
XLR/ES-Link Analog × 1 Pair
RCA × 1 Pair
Weight:
13.6kg
Analog Audio Outputs:
XLR/ES-Link Analog × 1 Pair
ES-Link Analog Pre-Out × 1 Pair
RCA × 1 Pair
Headphone Outputs:
¼” (6.3mm) Phone Jack × 1
4-Pin XLR × 1
Maximum Ouput Power:
1,200 mW + 1,200 mW / 32Ω
Compatible Impedance:
16 to 600 Ω
S-05XE Specifications
Rated Output Power:
30 W + 30 W (8Ω, Class A)
60 W + 60 W (4Ω)
120 W (BTL Mode, 8Ω)
Analog Audio Inputs:
ES-Link Analog × 1 Pair
RCA × 1 Pair
XLR × 1 Pair
Frequency Response:
5Hz to 100kHz (+0dB, -3dB, 8Ω)
S/N Ratio:
104dB (IHF-A, XLR)
Distortion:
0.007% (1kHz, 8Ω, 30W)
Compatible Speaker
4Ω to 16Ω
Impedance:
8Ω to 16Ω (BTL Mode）
Gain:
28.5dB (BTL Mode: 34.5dB)
Power Supply:
AC 230 V, 50 Hz (Europe)
AC 120 V, 60 Hz (US/Canada)
Power Consumption:
215 W (195 W when no signal)
External Dimensions
445 × 191 × 443 mm
(W×H×D): (Including Protrusions）
Weight:
25.6 kg