Esoteric N-05XE and S-05XE – Network Preamplifier with DAC and Power Amplifier from Japan

The Japanese brand Esoteric has introduced a new XE series of electronic components, including the Esoteric N-05XE network player, preamplifier and DAC, and the Esoteric S-05XE stereo power amplifier operating in pure Class A. The new products will go on sale in March 2026.

According to the manufacturer, the XE series represents a careful refinement rather than a complete redesign. Both components retain the functional DNA of their predecessors but feature optimized circuitry, updated digital architecture and greater system flexibility. Both models exhibit exemplary build quality and will be offered in silver and black finishes.

The Esoteric N-05XE combines network streaming, digital-to-analog conversion and a balanced preamplifier with a headphone amplifier in one chassis. According to Esoteric, the goal was to deliver the highest possible sound quality in a compact system, and the new model successfully achieves this. The centerpiece of the update is the combination of the new G4 network platform with support for optical SFP connections and the next-generation Master Sound Discrete DAC G2, based on technologies originally developed for the flagship Grandioso N1.

Instead of standard DAC chips, the Esoteric N-05XE uses a fully discrete FPGA-based architecture with separate processing algorithms optimized for PCM and DSD formats. A 64-bit delta-sigma modulator with 512 fs, low-noise resistor ladder networks and high-precision MELF resistors, according to the developers, reduce noise, improve linearity and enhance soundstage stability. Clocking is handled by the proprietary Master Sound Discrete Clock for Digital Player module with a 10 MHz external input for even greater accuracy.

Networking capabilities are extensive: native playback of DSD up to 22.5 MHz, support for two directly connected USB storage devices and compatibility with TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Spotify Connect, Roon and QQ Music. Control is performed via the Esoteric Sound Stream app or software supporting OpenHome. Bluetooth with LDAC, LHDC, aptX HD and AAC is also included, although the main emphasis is placed on wired connection.

The analog section follows a dual-mono concept with fully independent channels and power supplies. The balanced preamplifier is borrowed from the Grandioso series and has a dedicated power supply for the volume control circuit, while the proprietary HCLD buffer provides stable drive capability on all outputs. The proprietary ES-Link interface is also provided, allowing current-mode connection with compatible Esoteric amplifiers.

Headphone users are also catered for: the new dual-mono balanced headphone amplifier delivers up to 1.2 W per channel into 32 Ohm headphones. Outputs include 4-pin XLR and 6.35 mm, and the supported impedance range extends from 16 to 600 Ohm.

Partnering the N-05XE is the Esoteric S-05XE Class A stereo power amplifier, continuing the manufacturer’s philosophy – prioritizing linearity, channel independence and tonal purity rather than chasing power figures. The amplifier delivers 30 W per channel into 8 Ohm, follows a dual-mono concept, features independent power supplies and a large custom toroidal power transformer. Bi-amp and BTL modes are supported, providing configuration flexibility without abandoning Class A operation.

Structurally, both components follow Esoteric’s proven approach to vibration suppression and chassis rigidity. Semi-floating top panels, extremely rigid enclosures and proprietary Pinpoint feet are used to improve spatial imaging and focus. Like the rest of Esoteric’s products, both devices are manufactured in Tokyo.

By combining flagship technologies in a more compact two-component system, the company clearly targets listeners seeking reference-class digital playback and Class A amplification without unnecessary complexity. Recommended retail prices are USD 13,000 for the Esoteric N-05XE and USD 13,500 for the Esoteric S-05XE, regardless of finish.

Technical specifications of the Esoteric N-05XE network preamplifier with DAC:

Network section: 1 Ethernet port, 1 SFP port, 2 USB storage ports (Type-A, Type-C)

Clock input: BNC ×1

Frequency response: 5 Hz to 30 kHz (-3 dB)

Signal-to-noise ratio: 109 dB (A-weighted)

Distortion: 0.001% (1 kHz)

Supported Bluetooth protocols: LDAC, LHDC, Qualcomm®aptX™ HD audio, Qualcomm®aptX™

Codecs: Audio, AAC, SBC

Digital audio inputs: XLR ×1, RCA ×2, optical ×2, USB ×2 (Type-B, Type-C)

Analog audio inputs: XLR/ES-Link analog ×1 pair, RCA ×1 pair

Analog audio outputs: XLR/ES-Link analog ×1 pair, ES-Link analog pre-out ×1 pair, RCA ×1 pair

Headphone outputs: 1 × 6.3 mm jack, 1 × 4-pin XLR

Maximum output power: 1,200 mW + 1,200 mW / 32 Ohm

Compatible load impedance: 16 to 600 Ohm

Dimensions (W × H × D): 445 × 131 × 377 mm

Weight: 13.6 kg

Technical specifications of the Esoteric S-05XE stereo power amplifier:

Rated output power: 30 W + 30 W (8 Ohm, Class A) / 60 W + 60 W (4 Ohm) / 120 W (BTL mode, 8 Ohm)

Analog audio inputs: ES-Link analog ×1 pair, RCA ×1 pair, XLR ×1 pair

Frequency response: 5 Hz to 100 kHz (+0 dB, -3 dB, 8 Ohm)

Signal-to-noise ratio: 104 dB (IHF-A, XLR)

Distortion: 0.007% (1 kHz, 8 Ohm, 30 W)

Load impedance: 4 to 16 Ohm (8 to 16 Ohm in BTL mode)

Gain: 28.5 dB (BTL mode: 34.5 dB)

Power consumption: 215 W (195 W with no signal)

Dimensions (W × H × D): 445 × 191 × 443 mm

Weight: 25.6 kg