SA-50
Super Audio CD/DVD Player
The
new “SA-50” is an integrated player featuring VOSP mechanism and 32-bit dual mono
DACs!
VOSP Mechanism
VOSP (Vertically-aligned Optical Stability Platform), features a specially designed shaft-mounted laser pickup assembly. This pickup system evolved from ESOTERIC's P-01 and P-03 transports. This pickup design ensures that the laser optical axis is always at the center of the data track for optimal reading
capability. With VOSP implementation, no off axis error correction is needed because no off axis data tracking is allowed.
High mass / resonance-free mechanism stabilizer
The VOSP mechanism is rigidly clamped by a steel plate and a large diameter stabilizer made of 8 mm-thick steel to reduce
unwanted resonance caused by high speed disc rotation. The entire mechanism assembly is directly mounted to the bottom chassis and two interior steel brackets rigidly hold the
mechanism for superior anti-resonance properties.
Full 32 bit processing D/A converter device The SA-50 features the latest 32 bit processing "AK4392" advanced multi-bit DAC device produced by Asahi Kasei EMD.
The AK4392 has a highly precise D/A conversion capability with extended 32 bit processing throughout all output stages. The 32 bit processor also has enough room for 24 bit or lower data flow,
and greatly contributes to a “three-dimensional” audio imaging experience. The SA-50 uses 1 chip per channel, in a dual mono configuration gaining maximum performance out of the 32 bit
AK4392. With this implementation, high purity digital signals are converted to well defined, high-density analog signals.
Highly advanced digital conversion capability; DSD to 32 bit PCM conversion for SA-CD PCM to DSD conversion for Redbook CD
The SA-50 features user selectable digital signal conversion capability. The highly advanced digital conversion functions of the SA-50 include 32 bit PCM processing to provide a wide
range of options to match to your audio system, or, your general listening preferences based on your choice of software.
(1) The SA-50 can directly process native DSD signals into
analog signals, and, can also convert the DSD signal into a 32 bit PCM signal. Oversampling frequency is selectable from x2 (88.2 kHz) or x4 (176.4 kHz).
(2) PCM to DSD conversion capability for Redbook CD sources and for PCM signals input from external digital devices.
(3) PCM signals are processed with a high quality 32 bit digital filter to enhance natural reproduction capability. Oversampling frequency is selectable from x2 (88.2 kHz) or x4 (176.4 kHz).
(4) 2 modes are selectable for PCM digital filter. (FIR mode / Short delay mode).
Digital inputs / Digital volume attenuator
The SA-50 has 3 digital inputs (COAX, OPTICAL, USB) and a digital volume attenuator. This implementation enables the SA-50 to be used as a standalone up-sampler, D/A converter or digital
preamp with 32 bit signal processing capability!
High quality 2 channel dedicated analog audio output Precise imaging and deeper sound stage
The analog audio output circuits are also in a dual mono configuration producing exceptionally good channel separation. RCA (single-ended), output or XLR (fully-balanced), output is
selectable. During playback of the selected output mode, the analog signal path that is not used is completely de-activated. This 2 channel dedicated circuit design further enhances precise
imaging, transparency, separation and a deeper sound stage.
Rich and high speed power supply capability
The large custom designed toroidal transformer, has a highly efficient power supply capability. This provides electrical power to the drive
mechanism and audio circuits very quickly, without adding noise or distortion to the signal path.
Word synchronization
The SA-50 features a WORD SYNC input terminal to accept an incoming external WORD clock signal. The input can operate with 44.1
/ 88.2 / 176.4 / 100 kHz clock signals. The unit can also operate using an ESOTERIC original 100 kHz Universal Clock signal (Single
freq. compatible w/ SACD/CD and DVD). The incoming ultra-stable clock signal produced by external components such as a master
clock sync generator (ESOTERIC G-03X or G-0Rb), effectively upgrade the unit, delivering higher performance with better acoustic
transparency, improved channel separation and a more detailed and wider sound stage.
Dual PLL circuits reduce jitter when connected to a digital source device with no WORD SYNC function
The SA-50 shares dual stage PLL jitter reduction with the ESOTERIC D-05 D/A converter, and is highly capable as a standalone D/A
converter / re-clocker, when connected with CD transports, media servers, or other external digital devices. The second stage PLL
circuit has its own voltage controlled crystal clock, and re-clocks the signal produced by the first stage PLL circuit. Dual PLL circuits, with
two different characteristic responses in jitter reduction effectively purify the input digital signal, even when the unit is connected to a
transport with no WORD SYNC function. You can set this second stage PLL to off when the
unit is connected to a transport which has a WORD SYNC input function.
Highly rigid chassis construction for optimal resonance control capability
The SA-50 front panel is made of thick extruded aluminum. This helps to insure chassis rigidity, reducing unwanted vibrations and
resonance, while also providing a stronger support structure for the center mounted VOSP mechanism. The top and side panels are
made of 5 mm thick aluminum. The bottom chassis features a heavy duty 5 mm thick steel plate. The toroidal transformer support base
also features a 5 mm steel plate for added resonance absorption. Combined with three pinpoint isolation feet made of quenched steel,
this chassis design helps to isolate the unit from external vibrations, allowing highly stable and precise VOSP mechanism mounting, and
highly-rigid, resonance-free system construction.
Specification:
| System |
Super
Audio CD/CD/CD-R/CD-RW |
| Audio
output (analog audio). |
Output
terminals |
XLR jacks
(2 channel) x 1 |
| RCA
jacks (2 channel) x 1 |
| Maximum
output level |
2.2 V rms
(1 kHz Full scaled) |
| Frequency
response |
5 to 40 kHz
(+0.5dB, -3dB) |
| Signal-to-noise
ratio (S/N) |
130 dB |
| Total
harmonic distortion |
0.001% (CD)
/ 0.003 % (SA-CD) |
| Audio
output (digital audio). |
OPTICAL |
Optical
digital jack x 1 |
| COAXIAL |
RCA jack x
1 |
| Audio
input (digital audio). |
OPTICAL |
Optical
digital jack x 1 (Input frequency up to 24 bit / 192 kHz) |
| COAXIAL |
RCA jack x
1 (Input frequency up to 24 bit / 192 kHz) |
| USB |
USB Type B
connector x1 (Input frequency up to 16 bit / 48 kHz) |
| Word
synchronization input format. |
Input
terminal |
BNC jack x
1 |
| Input
frequency |
44.1, 88.2,
176.4, 100 kHz (rectangular wave) |
| Input
level |
TTL level /
75 ohms |
| General: |
Power
supply |
AC 230V,
50Hz |
| AC
120V, 60Hz |
| AC
220V, 60Hz |
| Power
consumption |
To be
available soon |
| External
dimensions (W×H×D) |
442 x 153 x
353 mm (17-3/8" x 6" x 13-7/8") |
| Weight |
17 kg (37
15/16 lbs) |
Downloads
Reviews
www.esoteric.teac.com
