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Esoteric Two Best-Selling Models Have Evolved into "XE" Series
Introducing the Network DAC Preamplifier "N-05XE" and the Class A Stereo Power Amplifier "S-05XE"

Tokyo, JP (February 6, 2026) — 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

About Esoteric

The design goal of Esoteric is to recreate the original master sound.

Esoteric is a high end audio manufacturer established in 1987.Based in Tokyo, all products (ranging from network audio players, SACD players, DACs to amplifiers) are hand built in our factory to exacting standards. Cutting edge technologies, engineering excellence, state-of-the-art Japanese craftsmanship and passion for innovation－all coming together to unveil new dimensions in musical experience.