The N-05XE features the optical network-compatible G4 network engine and a
next-generation G2 ‘Master Sound Discrete DAC’. It also has a dual balanced
preamplifier derived directly from the Grandioso Series 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.
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” : Esotericʼs 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: Esotericʼs 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 ¼ (6.3mm) Stereo Phone 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, LHDC,
Qualcomm®aptX ™ HD audio, Qualcomm®aptX ™ audio, AAC, SBC
• Fixed Line Output Mode / Signal Pass-Through Output Mode
• High-Rigidity 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
Esoteric N-05XE Network Audio Player/DAC/Preamp/Headphone Amp
| Network Section | |
| Supported File Formats | |
| PCM Lossless | FLAC, ALAC, WAV, AIFF, MQA |
| DSD Lossless | DSF, DSDIFF (DFF) , DoP |
| Compressed Audio | MP3, AAC |
| Ethernet Port | 1 (1000BASE-T) |
| SFP Port | 1 (1000BASE-T/-LX (Single Mode), 1000BASE-SX (Multi Mode) ) |
| USB Drive Port | 1 (Type-A) 1 (Type-C) * USB2.0 or higher recommended |
| Supported File System | FAT32, exFAT, NTFS, Single Partation |
| Maximum Current Supply | 0.5A Each |
| Supported Sampling Frequencies | |
| PCM | 44.1 to 768kHz, 16bit / 24bit / 32bit |
| DSD | 2.8MHz, 5.6MHz, 11.2MHz, 22.5MHz |
| Bluetooth Section | |
| Bluetooth Version | 4.2 |
| Output Class | Class2 (Range: Approx. 10m) * The communication range is approximate, and it varies depending on the surrounding environment and wave conditions. |
| Supported Profile | A2DP, AVRCP |
| Supported A2DP Codec | LDAC, LHDC, Qualcomm®aptX ™ HD audio, Qualcomm®aptX ™ audio, AAC, SBC |
| A2DP Contents Protection | SCMS-T |
| Number of Pairing Memory | Max. 8 |
| Number of Multipoint Connection | Max. 2 |
| Digital Audio Inputs | |
| XLR | 1 |
| Input Level | 5.0Vp-p |
| Input Impedance | 110Ω |
| Input Signal Formats | |
| Linear PCM | 32 to 192kHz, 16bit / 24bit (AES/EBU Format) |
| DSD | 2.8MHz (ES-Link1, ES-Link2, DoP Format) |
| RCA | 2 |
| Input Level | 0.5Vp-p |
| Input Impedance | 75Ω |
| Input Signal Formats | |
| Linear PCM | 32 to 192kHz, 16bit / 24bit (IEC60958 Format) |
| DSD | 2.8MHz (DoP Format) |
| Optical | 2 |
| Input Level | –24.0 to –14.5 dBm peak |
| Input Signal Formats | |
| Linear PCM | 32 to 192kHz, 16bit / 24bit (IEC60958 Format) |
| DSD | 2.8MHz (DoP Format) |
| USB | 2 (Type-B, Type-C) , USB 2.0 Compliant |
| Input Signal Formats | |
| Linear PCM | 44.1 to 384kHz, 16bit / 24bit / 32bit |
| DSD | 2.8MHz, 5.6MHz, 11.2MHz, 22.5MHz (DoP Format) |
| Analog Audio Inputs | |
| XLR/ES-Link Analog | 1 (L/R) |
| Input Impedance | 16kΩ (XLR) |
| Input Voltage | 5Vrms (XLR) |
| Maximum Input Voltage | 11Vrms (XLR, 1kHz, THD 0.1%) |
| RCA | 1 (L/R) |
| Input Impedance | 10kΩ |
| Input Voltage | 2.5Vrms |
| Maximum Input Voltage | 5.5Vrms (1kHz, THD 0.1%) |
| Analog Audio Outputs | |
| XLR/ES-Link Analog | 1 (L/R) |
| Output Impedance | 40Ω (XLR) |
| Rated Output Voltage | 5Vrms (XLR, at 0.0dB Volume, PCM Digital Input, Full Scale Signal) |
| Maximum Output Voltage | 12Vrms (XLR, 1kHz, THD 1%) |
| RCA | 1 (L/R) |
| Output Impedance | 15Ω |
| Rated Output Voltage | 2.5Vrms (at 0.0dB Volume, PCM Digital Input, Full Scale Signal) |
| Maximum Output Voltage | 6Vrms (1kHz, THD 1%) |
| ES-Link Analog Pre-Out | 1 (L/R) |
| DAC Audio Performance | |
| Frequency Response | 5Hz to 30kHz (–3dB, DSD 2.8MHz 0dB, DSDF=8SFT, XLR Output) |
| S/N Ratio | 109dB (A-Weight, DSD 2.8MHz 0dB, DSDF=8SFT, XLR Output) |
| Distortion | 0.001% (1kHz, DSD 2.8MHz 0dB, DSDF=8SFT, XLR Output) |
| Headphone Outputs | |
| ¼ (6.3mm) Stereo Phone Jack | 1 |
| 4-Pin XLR | 1 |
| Maximum Output Power | 1,200mW + 1,200mW (32Ω Load) |
| Compatible Impedance | 16 to 600Ω |
| Clock Input | |
| BNC | 1 |
| Input Frequency | 10MHz (±10ppm) |
| Input Impedance | 50Ω |
| Input Level | |
| Rectangular Wave | TTL Level or Equivalent |
| Sine Wave | 0.5 to 1.0Vrms |
| External Control | |
| Trigger In | 1 (3.5mm Monaural Mini Jack) |
| Input Level | 12V, 1mA |
| Trigger Out | 1 (3.5mm Monaural Mini Jack) |
| Output Level | 12V, 100mA Max |
| General | |
| Power Supply | AC 220-240V 50/60Hz (Europe) AC 120V, 60Hz (US/Canada) AC 220V, 60Hz (Korea) AC 230V, 50Hz (Hong Kong) |
| Power Consumption | 30W (Standby: 0.3W) |
| External Dimensions (W×H×D) | 445 × 131 × 377mm (Including Protrusions) |
| Weight | 13.6kg |
| Included Accessories | Power Cord × 1 Remote Control (RC-1339) × 1 AA Batteries × 2 Owner’s Manual × 1 Warranty Card × 1 |

































