Esoteric UX-1 CD Only Transport (Modified), Complete Package Set

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It's no secret that the UX-1 contains a formidable VRDS laser transport. It's build quality and component selection is exemplary.

However we weren't happy with the sound quality with the included internal DAC. It just didn't sound as good as we know these can sound, so we converted this into a dedicated CD transport by removing the noisy video cards, DAC's, and eliminating *anything* that was superfluous. We then covered up the openings with a custom acrylic plate.

We're now left with a superb CD transport for redbook CD's so you can add any DAC that you see fit.

It's equipped with Toslink and RCA Digital outputs, plus a clocking BNC connector so you can connect just about any DAC.

Obviously it no longer outputs DVD-A's or SACD -  just redbook CD's.

I can't think of a single transport in this price range with this sort of build qaulity.

Right away you'll notice this piece feels like its built from a solid block of aluminum. If you're opposed to heavy units, this is not for you as it weighs a ton.

In superb condition with little signs of use.

The front display is clear and bright, discs come to speed right away, and it sounds amazing.

Will ship to you in its original packaging with an original remote and manual.

Standout Features:
The VDRS mechanism completely eliminates any vibration of the disc itself, thanks to the full-diameter clamp, which clamps the disc securely to the turntable. In addition, warping and other defects of the disc are eliminated. The constancy of the reading angle between the optical pickup and the disc pits is therefore increased, and read errors, together with the occurrence of timing errors to the clock circuit, are significantly reduced.

The UX-1 accordingly uses a magnesium turntable. This has only two-thirds the specific gravity of aluminum and has excellent shock-absorbent properties. The bridge employs a pair of precisely engineered ball bearings, and is constructed of SS400 steel, mounted directly on the 5mm thick steel base plate.

Coreless motor with neodymium magnets
A newly-developed three-phase brushless spindle motor provides the fast and accurate turntable rotation. This, and the fixing of the turntable together with the use of precision ball bearings, eliminate irregular rotation and vibration.

Research has shown that neodymium is the optimum magnetic material for this application. Neodymium absorbs changes to the motor’s electric power supply, and exerts minimal influence on the audio sections of the unit.

Constant-angle optical pickup mounted on a sled with feedback-monitored speed control
By mounting the pickup on a sled whose axis is rigid, the pickup lens is maintained at a constant angle and the laser beam, and hence the optical axis, is maintained in an accurate vertical orientation. An Esoteric original three-phase brushless motor with Hall element detection drives the sled, and the speed of the sled is monitored and used to control the sled itself in a servo feedback operation, meaning the sled is highly responsive and smooth in its operation.

Sturdy, rigid chassis with triple-point pinpoint foot support
The unit is constructed with a 5mm thick robust steel base plate, and is divided into three logical sections, thereby reducing interference between components of the unit. Highly rigid mounts are used for the VDRS disc mechanism.
To eliminate vibration, three solid (tool steel) feet support the unit and isolate it mechanically.

Esoteric UX-1 Owner's Manual

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