Esoteric’s two best-selling models have evolved into the “XE” series. Introducing the Network DAC Preamplifier “N-05XE” and the Class A Stereo Power Amplifier “S-05XE.”

Press release

02-06-2026

TAMA, TOKYO, JAPAN, 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 has evolved into the new “XE” series. The product will be available for international shipment in Spring 2026.


Product Name	Model Name	Color	Estimated Delivery Date	Sales Region
Network DAC Preamplifier	N-05XE	Silver	Spring 2026	Worldwide
Network DAC Preamplifier	N-05XE B	Black	Spring 2026	Worldwide
Class A Stereo Power Amplifier	S-05XE	Silver	Spring 2026	Worldwide
Class A Stereo Power Amplifier	S-05XE B	Black	Spring 2026	Worldwide

S-05XE (Left) N-05XE (Right)

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 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

: New features of the N-05XE

Specifications

Network Section: Ethernet Port × 1, SFP Port × 1, USB Drive Ports × 2 (Type-A, Type-C)
Supported Bluetooth Codecs: LDAC, LHDC, Qualcomm® aptX™ HD audio, Qualcomm® aptX™ 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: ¼ (6.3mm) Phone Jack × 1, 4-Pin XLR × 1
Maximum Output Power: 1,200mW + 1,200mW / 32Ω
Compatible Impedance: 6Ω to 600Ω
Clock Input: BNC × 1
Frequency Response: 5Hz to 30kHz (–3dB)
S/N Ratio: 109dB (A-Weight)
Distortion: 0.001% (1kHz)
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

N-05XE (Silver)

N-05XE B (Black)

Front

Rear

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.

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

: New features of the S-05XE

Specifications

Rated Output Power: 30W+30W (8Ω, Class A), 60W+60W (4Ω), 120W (BTL Mode, 8Ω)
Frequency Response: 5Hz to 100kHz (+0dB, –3dB, 8Ω)
S/N Ratio: 104dB (IHF-A, XLR)
Distortion: 0.007% (1kHz, 8Ω, 30W)
Compatible Speaker Impedance: 4Ω to 16Ω (Stereo/Bi-Amp Mode), 8Ω to 16Ω (BTL Mode)
Gain: 28.5dB (BTL Mode: 34.5dB)
Analog Audio Inputs: ES-Link Analog × 1 Pair, RCA × 1 Pair, XLR × 1 Pair
Power Suppiy: AC 230V 50Hz (Europe), AC 120V 60Hz (US/Canada)
Power Consumption: 215W (195W When no signal)
External Dimensions: (W×H×D): 445 × 191 × 443mm (Including Protrusions)
Weight: 25.6kg