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Estimated price (community-sourced)
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The Esoteric C-03X is a premium stereo linestage preamplifier designed to achieve the highest grade of sound reproduction, aiming to revitalize the original master tape experience. It features a full balanced dual-mono design with independent power supplies for each channel to eliminate inter-channel interference. The unit employs discrete analog circuits with a very short signal path, positioning input and output stages close to their respective ports to minimize noise and signal degradation. It uses ultra-high-grade components including 8N and 6N high purity copper cables and WIMA capacitors. The chassis is a highly rigid 5-cell construction with thick steel and aluminum panels supported by milled steel isolation feet to suppress vibration. The C-03X offers multiple inputs and outputs (RCA and XLR), a high slew rate output buffer, and a high current drive for sharp response. It includes features such as adjustable input gain, channel balance, phase inversion, and a programmable source component name display. The unit is finished with sculpted matte aluminum panels and weighs approximately 22 kg. It has been discontinued but remains a notable contender in the high-end preamplifier market.
Analog signal output specifications
Input and output connections
Size, weight, and appearance
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions
The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The Meitner PRE SE-Silver Edition's output voltage is 4.0V RMS against the C-03X's 2.0V RMS, its input impedance 20Ω against 22000Ω, and its weight 7.43 kg (16 lbs) against 22 kg (49 lbs). Both share signal-to-noise (116 dB).
The C-57's signal-to-noise is 102 dB against the C-03X's 116 dB, its input impedance 1000Ω against 22000Ω, and its weight 14.8 kg (33 lbs) against 22 kg (49 lbs). Both share output voltage (2.0V RMS).
The Mimesis 27.8's signal-to-noise is 120 dB against the C-03X's 116 dB, its output voltage 3.6V RMS against 2.0V RMS, its input impedance 50Ω against 22000Ω, and its weight 8 kg (18 lbs) against 22 kg (49 lbs).
The Symmetrical's signal-to-noise is 95 dB against the C-03X's 116 dB, its output voltage 1.0V RMS against 2.0V RMS, its input impedance 47Ω against 22000Ω, and its weight 17 kg (37 lbs) against 22 kg (49 lbs).
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