ESOTERIC Grandioso D1X Monoblock DAC Set Owner’s Manual

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

CAUTION
THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DOES NOT OPEN

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE THE COVER (OR BACK). NO USERSERVICEABLEPARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
**** The lightning flash with the arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARDS, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

CAUTION

• DO NOT REMOVE THE EXTERNAL CASES OR CABINETS TO EXPOSE THE ELECTRONICS. NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS ARE INSIDE.

• IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS WITH THIS PRODUCT,
  CONTACT THE STORE WHERE YOU PURCHASED THE UNIT FOR A SERVICE REFERRAL. DO NOT USE THE PRODUCT UNTIL IT HAS BEEN REPAIRED.

• USE OF CONTROLS OR ADJUSTMENTS OR PERFORMANCE OF PROCEDURES OTHER THAN THOSE SPECIFIED HEREIN MAY RESULT IN HAZARDOUS RADIATION EXPOSURE.

1.  Read these instructions.

2.  Keep these instructions.

3.  Heed all warnings.

4.  Follow all instructions.

5.  Do not use this apparatus near water.

6.  Clean only with a dry cloth.

7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

8.  Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

9.  Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for the replacement of the obsolete outlet.

10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched par- particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.

11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.

12.  Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/
    apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
    

13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.

14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

• The apparatus draws nominal non-operating power from the AC outlet with its POWER or STANDBY/ON switch not in the ON position.
•  The mains plug is used as the disconnect device; the disconnect device shall remain readily operable.
• Caution should be taken when using earphones or headphones with the product because excessive sound pressure (volume) from earphones or headphones can cause hearing loss.

WARNING
Products with Class! construction is equipped with a power supply cord that has a grounding plug. The cord of such a product must be plugged into an AC outlet that has a protective grounding connection.

IN USA/CANADA, USE ONLY ON 120V SUPPLY.

CAUTION

• Do not expose this apparatus to drips or splashes.
•  Do not place any objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the apparatus.
• Do not install this apparatus in a confined space such as a bookcase or similar unit.
•  The apparatus should be located close enough to the AC outlet so that you can easily reach the power cord plug at any time.
• If the product uses batteries (including a battery pack or installed batteries), it should not be exposed to sunshine, fire or excessive heat.
• CAUTION for products that use replaceable lithium batteries: there is a danger of explosion if a battery is replaced with an incorrect type of battery. Replace only with the same or equivalent type.

Supplier’s Declaration of Conformity
Model number: Grandioso D1X
Trade name: ESOTERIC
Responsible party: Pioneer & Onkyo U.S.A. Corporation
Address: 22828 Lockness Avenue, Torrance, CA 90501 U.S.A.
Telephone number: 1-201-785-2600
This device complies with Part.15 of FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

1. This device may not cause harmful interference
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Information
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the equipment and/or the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

CAUTION
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

Model for Canada
Industry Canada’s Compliance Statement:
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Model for Europe
This product complies with the European Directives request, and the other Commission Regulations.

For European Customers
Disposal of electrical and electronic equipment and batteries and/or accumulators
a) All electrical/electronic equipment and waste batteries/accumulators should be disposed of separately from the municipal waste stream via collection facilities designated by the government or local authorities.
b) By disposing of electrical/electronic equipment and waste batteries/accumulators correctly, you will help save valuable resources and prevent any potential negative effects on human health and the environment.
c) Improper disposal of waste electrical/electronic equipment and batteries/accumulators can have serious effects on the environment and human health because of the presence of hazardous substances in the equipment.
d) The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) symbols, which show wheeled bins that have been crossed out, indicate that electrical/electronic equipment and batteries/accumulators must be collected and disposed of separately from household waste.
If a battery or accumulator contains more than the specified values of lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and/or cadmium (Cd) as defined in the Battery Directive(2006/66/EC, 2013/56/EU), then the chemical symbols for those elements will be indicated beneath the WEEE symbol.
e) Return and collection systems are available to end-users. For more detailed information about the disposal of old electrical/electronic equipment and waste batteries/accumulators, please contact your city office, waste disposal service, or the shop where you purchased the equipment.

MQA and the Sound Wave Device have registered trademarks of MQA Limited.© 2016
“DSD” is a registered trademark.
Microsoft and Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
Apple, Mac, OS X, and macOS are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.
Bulk Pet is a registered trademark of INTERFACE CO., LTD.
ESOTERIC is a trademark of TEAC CORPORATION, registered in the U.S. and other countries.
Other company names, product names, and logos in this document are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
Information about copyrights and licenses related to open source software is included at the end of this document.
Thank you for purchasing this ESOTERIC product.
Read this manual carefully to get the best performance from this product. After reading it, keep it in a safe place with the warranty card for future reference.
ATTENTION
The Grandioso  D1X only outputs analog signals from the one selected type of connector.
Set the analog output to ESLA, XLR2, XLR3 or RCA before use.
For information about the settings, see “Setting mode” on page 12 and “Analog output setting” on page 15.

Before use

Included accessories
Check to be sure the box includes all the supplied accessories shown below. Please contact the store where you purchased this product if any of these accessories are missing or have been damaged during transportation.
Power cords × 2
HDMI cables × 2
Felt pads × 8
Owner’s manual (this document) × 1
Warranty card × 1
Note about pinpoint feet
High-precision metal pinpoint feet are attached firmly to the bottom plates of these units.

The stands for these feet are loose, but when a unit is placed in position, it is supported by these pinpoint feet, which will effectively disperse vibrations.

• Apply the included felt pads to the bottoms of the foot-stands to avoid scratching the surface where the units are placed.

Maintenance
Use a soft dry cloth to wipe the surfaces of the units clean.
For stubborn smudges, use a damp cloth that has been thoroughly wrung out to remove excess moisture.

• Never spray liquid directly on these units.
• Do not wipe with chemical cleaning cloths, thinner, or other chemical agents. Doing so could damage the surfaces of the units.
• Avoid allowing rubber or plastic materials to touch the units for long periods of time because they could damage the cabinets.
  For safety, disconnect the power plugs from the outlets before wiping the units.

Precautions for use

• These units are very heavy, so take care to avoid injury during installation.
•  Do not install these units in locations that could become hot. This includes places that are exposed to direct sunlight or near a radiator, heater, stove, or other heating equipment. Moreover, do not place them on top of an amplifier or other equipment that generates heat. Doing so could cause discoloration or deformation.
• Avoid locations that are extremely cold or exposed to excessive humidity or dust.
• In order to enable good heat dissipation, leave at least 20 cm (8″) between these units and walls and other equipment when installing them. If you put them in a rack, take precautions to prevent overheating by leaving at least 5 cm (2″) open above the tops of the units and at least 10 cm (4″) open behind them. Failure to provide these gaps could cause heat to build up inside and result in fire.
•  Place these units in stable locations.
•  Do not place anything on top of the units.
•  Do not put the cloth on top of the units or place them on top of bedding or thick carpet   Doing so could cause them to overheat or damage them.
• The voltage supplied to the units should match the voltage as printed on the rear panels. If you are in any doubt regarding this matter, consult an electrician.
•  Do not move the units during use.
•  Do not open the bodies of the units as this might result in damage to the circuitry or cause electric shock. If a foreign object should get into one of the units, contact your dealer.
•  When removing a power plug from an outlet, always pull directly on the plug. Never pull on the cord itself.
•  The ES-LINK format is unique to ESOTERIC and is not compatible with the HDMI specification. Do not connect the ES-LINK connector to an HDMI connector on a device made by another company.

Connections

Connecting using ES-LINK Analog

• Use XLR cables to connect the analog audio output (XLR/ESL-A) connectors on these units to an amplifier that has ES-LINK Analog (ESL-A) connectors.
• Set the analog outputs (AOUT) for the units to ESLA.
• You can also connect using XLR or RCA connectors. Select the connection type that provides the audio quality you prefer.

ES-LINK Analog overview
The current transmission method utilizes the performance of HCLD buffer circuits that feature the ability to supply strong current at high speed. This suppresses the impact of impedance on signal paths, enabling pure and powerful transmission of signals.

• Ordinary balanced cables (with XLR connectors) are used for the connection. These connectors can only be used with compatible devices, however, because the transmission format is unique.

Precautions when making connections

• Complete all other connections before connecting power plugs to power outlets.
•  Read the owner’s manuals of all devices that will be connected, and follow their instructions.

This product includes units for the left and right channels. Both units are used for stereo playback.
A Digital audio input (DIGITAL IN) connectors
Use to input digital audio signals.
They can be connected to the digital output connectors of a digital audio device such as the Grandioso P1X.
ES-LINK: HDMI cable

• The ES-LINK format is unique to ESOTERIC and is not compatible with the HDMI specification. Do not connect the ES-LINK connector to an HDMI connector on a device made by another company

Use commercially-available cables for the following connections.
XLR: XLR digital cable
RCA: RCA coaxial digital cable
OPTICAL: optical digital cable

• We recommend using ES-LINK when connecting to a Grandioso P1X.
•  The XLR connectors support Dual AES. If the digital source device that you are using supports Dual AES, use two cables to connect the left and right channel XLR  connectors to the left and right digital output connectors on that device.

XLR connectors can be connected in the following two ways.
Single connection (AES/EBU)
This transmits both left and right audio signals through one signal line.
Dual connection (Dual AES)
This transmits left and right audio signals through separate signal lines.
B SIGNAL GND grounding terminals

• The audio quality might be improved by making grounding connections between these grounding terminals and other connected devices.
•  These are not safety grounding terminals.

C CLOCK 10MHz IN connectors
Use to input 10MHz clock synchronization signals (page 10).
When using clock synchronization, connect clock output connectors from the device outputting clock signals to the clock input connectors on these units. Then, set the clock (CLK>) setting to sync (page 14).

• Use commercially available BNC coaxial cables for connections.
•  BNC coaxial cables with 50Ω or 75Ω impedance can be used.

D SOFTWARE maintenance ports
These are used for maintenance. Do not connect anything to these ports unless instructed to do so by our service department.

E Left-right channel link connectors (L-R)
Use the included HDMI cable to connect these connectors on the left and right channel units. Various settings and right channel audio data are sent from the Grandioso D1X left channel unit to the right channel unit.
ATTENTION
If these ports are not connected, be sure to use the same settings for both left and right channel units
F Analog audio output (LINE OUT) connectors
These output 2-channel analog audio. Connect the XLR or RCA connectors to an amplifier.
Use commercially-available cables for connections.
XLR/ESL-A: XLR cables
RCA: RCA cables
Connect analog audio output connectors on the left and right channel units to the left and right connectors on the amplifier.

• Set the analog output to ESLA, XLR2, XLR3, RCA, or OFF

G AC power inlets (~IN)
Connect the included AC power cords to these AC inlets. After completing all other connections, plug the power plugs into the power outlets.
Use only genuine ESOTERIC power cords. The use of other power cords could result in fire or electric shock.

**** Disconnect the power plugs from the outlets if you will not use the Grandioso D1X units for a long time.

Main unit parts and functions

A POWER button
Press to turn the unit on and off.
When the unit is on, the ring around the button lights blue.
When the unit is off, it is unlit.
When not using the unit, turn it off.
B CLOCK indicator
This shows the clock synchronization status.
This indicator blinks during clock synchronization and lights
when synchronization completes.
C MENU button
Press to enter setting mode (page 12).
D Remote control signal receiver
This receives signals from the remote control. When using a remote control, point the end of it toward this receiver panel.

•  This product does not include a remote control.
•  This unit can be operated using a remote control included with a Grandioso P1X or other ESOTERIC product (page 16).

E Display
This shows information about the selected input connector, for example.
F INPUT button
Press to change the digital input. Select a connector that has a digital source device connected. If no digital signal is being input, no sampling frequency will be shown on the display.
G Setting adjustment (−/+) buttons
Use to change parameters when in setting mode.

• You cannot change the volume with this unit.

Display parts and functions

a Left/right channel identifier
This shows the channel played back by this unit
Lch: left channel
Rch: right channel
b Channel link status
This appears when the link connectors are connected between the left and right channel units.
c Transmission format
d Upconversion setting
e Clock mode
No indicator:
When CLK is set to OFF
CLK10M:
Shown when CLK is set to SYNC
INT22M/INT24M:
Shown when the internal clock is being used with USB input.
f Analog output
g Input
h Sampling frequency
This shows the sampling frequency of the input signal.

•  When the input source is ES-L1 or ES-L2, this shows the input signal format (PCM or DSD).

MQA (Master Quality Authenticated)

MQA is an award-winning British technology that delivers the sound of the original master recording. The master MQA file is fully authenticated and is small enough to stream r download. Visit mqa.co.uk for more information.
The Grandioso D1X includes MQA technology, which enables you to play back MQA audio files and streams, delivering the sound of the original master recording.
‘MQA’ or ‘MQA Studio’ indicates that the product is decoding and playing an MQA stream or file, and denotes provenance to ensure that the sound is identical to that of the source material. “MQA Studio” indicates it is playing an MQA Studio file, which has either been approved in the studio by the artist/producer or has been verified by the copyright owner.
Decoding and playing MQA data
The Grandioso D1X can decode and play MQA data using its digital audio inputs, with the exception of the XLR DUAL connection. Stereo data for left and right channels is necessary for MQA data to be recognized.
Decoding and playing MQA-CDs
When using a Grandioso P1X
Playback is possible with the following connections and settings.
ES-LINK stereo mode connection
Set the output connectors and format used by the Grandioso P1X to LINK, and set the ES-LINK setting to ST (stereo mode). Another way to switch the ES-LINK mode o ST is to press and hold the pause button on the Grandioso  P1X for at least two seconds when playback is stopped.
XLR single connection
Set the output connectors and format used by the Grandioso P1X to XLR_1.
RCA connection
Set the output connectors and format used by the Grandioso P1X to RCA_1.
When using with an ESOTERIC transport other than a Grandioso P1X
Decoding and playback of MQA-CDs are not possible using an ES-LINK connection.
Playback is possible with the following connections.

•  XLR single connection
•  RCA connection
  Follow the Owner’s Manual for the transport being used to set its output settings.

Basic operation

•  If the left and right channel link connectors have been connected with the included HDMI cable, the left channel settings will automatically be sent to the right channel.

1 Press the POWER buttons to turn the units on.

Keep pressing and holding until the ring around the POWER button lights blue.

•  Turn both left and right channel units on

2 Press the INPUT button to select the source.

Each time you press the INPUT button, the active input changes in the following order and is shown on the display.

• If the units are not linked, do this on each unit. After selecting the input, start playback from the audio source device.

If no digital signal is detected, no sampling frequency will be shown on the display. Confirm the connections before turning connected devices on.

•  When you are done using the units, press the POWER buttons to turn them off.

Setting mode

The settings for this product are divided into two groups: Settings 1 and Settings 2. The Settings 1 or Settings 2 group will be shown depending on how the MENU button is pressed.

1. Press the MENU button to show the setting items.
   Press the MENU button briefly to show the Settings 1 group.
   Press it for at least three seconds to show the Settings 2 group.

2. Press the MENU button repeatedly to select the desired setting item.

Each time you press the MENU button, the item shown on the display changes.
Settings 1

• When the Settings 1 group is being shown, the MENU indicator appears at the top left of the display

Settings 2

• When the Settings 2 group is being shown, the MENU indicator appears blinking at the top left of the display.

3 Use the setting adjustment (−/+) buttons to change the settings.

For information about settings, see pages 14–16.
Press the INPUT button or do nothing for ten seconds to exit setting mode and return to the ordinary display. During an MQA update, however, setting mode will not be exited even when nothing is done for 10 seconds.

• Settings are retained even if the power plug is disconnected.

Meanings of items shown in setting mode
Settings 1

**UPC >*****
Upconversion setting
This changes the sampling frequency used for upconversion (page 14).

**CLK >*****
Clock setting
Use this to set synchronization with an external clock (page 14).

**AOUT >*****
Analog output setting
Use this to select the analog output connector to be used (page 15).

**DIMMER >*****
Dimmer setting
You can adjust the brightness of this unit’s display (page 15).

DIMMER>***
Dimmer setting
You can adjust the brightness of this unit’s display (page 15).

**DPaOFF >*****
Automatic display darkening setting (page 15)

APS >
Automatic power-saving setting (page 15)
Settings 2
PCMM >
D/A converter operation setting (page 16)
Settings 2
PCMM >
D/A converter operation setting (page 16)
PCMG >
Gain setting for PCM signal playback (page 16)
DSDF >
Digital filter setting during DSD playback (page 16)
REMOTE >
Remote control operation setting (page 16)

F/W ver.
Showing firmware versions (page 16)
MQA_UPDATE
Updates the MQA signal processing program (page 16) .

Settings 1

Upconversion setting
**UPC >*****
When a PCM signal from a CD, for example, is input, you can use this setting to up-convert that signal or convert it to a DSD signal. This setting can be made for each input. By default, the setting is ORG.

•  DSD signals cannot be upconverted.

2Fs
When PCM signals with frequencies of less than 88 .2  kHz are input, they are upconverted before being converted from digital to analog.
4Fs
When PCM signals with frequencies of less than 176 .4  kHz are input, they are upconverted before being converted from digital to analog.
8Fs
When PCM signals with frequencies of less than 352 .8  kHz are input, they are upconverted before being converted from digital to analog.
16Fs
When PCM signals with frequencies of less than 705 .6  kHz are input, they are upconverted before being converted from digital to analog.
DSD
Signals are converted to DSD before being converted from digital to analog.
Clock setting
**CLK >*
Use this to set synchronization with an external clock. By default, the setting is OFF.

•  Set this to OFF when connected to a source device, other than USB input, that does not support clock synchronization.

OFF
Clock synchronization is not used. The unit will operate with the clock of the input digital signal.
The built-in oscillator will be used with USB input.
The CLOCK indicator lights green.

SYNC
In this mode, the unit is synchronized with the 10MHz clock signal input through its CLOCK 10MHz IN connector from a clock generator. The CLOCK indicator lights blue.  The CLOCK indicator blinks when in the process of synchronizing or unable to synchronize.

• The audio source device must also be connected to the clock generator and set to receive clock synchronization.
• The clock frequency that can be input is 10  MHz. The input audio signal and the input clock signal must be synchronized.
• Be aware that during music playback, if the clock generator is turned off or the BNC coaxial cable that is supplying the 10MHz clock signal is disconnected, causing the lock signal to stop, a loud noise could be emitted from the speakers.

Analog output setting
**AOUT >*****
Use this to select the analog output connector to be used. By default, the setting is XLR2.

ISLA
Analog audio signals are output as ES-LINK Analog (ESL-A) through the XLR connector.

• This connection uses an ordinary XLR cable, but the signals are transmitted in a unique format, so it should only be used with compatible devices.
• See page 7 for more about ES-LINK Analog (ESL-A) .

XLR2
Analog audio signals are output through the XLR connector with pin 2 HOT.
XLR3
Analog audio signals are output through the XLR connector with pin 3 HOT.
RCA
Analog audio signals are output through the RCA connector.

Dimmer setting
**DIMMER >*****
Use this to adjust the brightness of the unit’s display. By default, the setting is 2.

• Even when set to DIMMER>1 or DIMMER>0, setting menus and error messages will be shown with normal brightness (DIMMER>2).

Automatic display darkening setting
**DPaOFF >*****
Use this to set the display to darken automatically.
By default, the setting is ON.

• If the OEL display is left on with the same indication for a long time, brightness irregularities can occur. For this reason, we recommend that you set the automatic display darkening function to ON.

ON
The display will automatically darken after 10 minutes elapse without any operation or change in the information shown.
OFF
The display will not automatically darken, but it will dim after 10 minutes elapse without operation.

Automatic power-saving setting
**APS >*****
If there is no input from the selected input source for the set time, the
power will turn off automatically.
By default, the setting is 30m.

•  The input sources that are not selected have no effect on automatic power saving.

30m
30 minutes
60m
60 minutes
90m
90 minutes
120m
120 minutes
OFF
The automatic power-saving function is disabled.

Settings 2

D/A converter operation setting
PCMM >
The D/A converter operation mode used during PCM playback can be set to three types: M1, M2, or M3. This changes the ΔΣ modulator operation frequency and randomization algorithm used to absorb hardware error. M1 is the ESOTERIC reference mode. The operation frequency of the ΔΣ modulator becomes progressively lower in order from M1 to M2 to M3. The replacement amount of the randomization algorithm increases progressively in order from M1 to M2 to M3. Select the sound setting you prefer. By default, the setting is M1
PCM gain setting
PCMG >
Use this to set the gain for PCM signal playback. This can be used to reduce the volume difference between PCM and DSD signal playback. Set it as necessary. By default, the setting is 0dB
0dB
The gain is not adjusted.
-3dB
The gain is reduced by 3 dB during PCM signal playback.
-6dB
The gain is reduced by 6 dB during PCM signal playback.
DSD filter setting
DSDF >***
Use to set the digital filter during DSD playback.
Set it as desired.
By default, the setting is OFF.
OFF
No digital filter is used.
F1, F2, F3
A digital filter is used. F1, F2, and F3 are digital filters with different frequency responses. The cutoff frequency becomes progressively lower from F1 to F2 to F3.
Remote control operation setting REMOTE >*
**Use this to set signal reception from ESOTERIC remote controls included with the Grandioso P1X and other products. By default, the setting is OFF.

• Regardless of this setting, remote control DIMMER buttons will function.
•  Set this to OFF when you are using an ESOTERIC amplifier. If set to ON, the amplifier will be operated at the same time.

OFF
This disables control of this product using the buttons on the remote control.
ON
This enables control of this product using the buttons for amplifier control on remote controls.
The following table shows the correspondence between the remote control and unit buttons.

Showing firmware versions
F/W ver.
Press the setting adjustment (+) button when “F/W ver .” is shown to check the versions of other firmware.
I/F ****
I/F firmware
U
USB firmware
M
MQA firmware
MQA updating
MQA_UPDATE
Use to update the MQA signal processing program.
See the explanation included with the update program for details about how to update.

**Connecting with a computer and playing back audio files

**

Supported operating systems
This unit can be connected by USB and used with a computer running one of the following operating systems.
Operation with other operating systems cannot be assured (as of February 2019).
When using Mac
OS X Lion (10 .7)
OS X Mountain Lion (10 .8)
OS X Mavericks (10 .9)
OS X Yosemite (10 .10)
OS X El Capitan (10 .11)
macOS Sierra (10 .12)
macOS High Sierra (10 .13)
macOS Mojave (10 .14)
When using Windows
Windows 7 (32/64-bit)
Windows 8 (32/64-bit)
Windows 8 .1 (32/64-bit)
Windows 10 (32/64-bit)
Installing the driver
When using Mac
This unit can be operated with the standard OS driver, so there is no need to install a driver.
A dedicated driver must be installed on the computer, however, to use Bulk Pet.
When using Windows
To use this product for the playback of files on a computer, install the dedicated driver on the computer.
Installing the driver on a computer
Install the dedicated driver software on the computer after downloading it from the following URL. For detailed instructions about installing the driver, please also see the following URL. https://www.esoteric.jp/en/product/d1x/download

IMPORTANT NOTICE
You must install the dedicated driver software before connecting this product with a computer by USB. If you connect this product to the computer by USB before installing the driver, it will not function properly. Depending on the composition of the computer hardware and software, the operation might not be possible even with the above-operating systems.
Note about transmission modes
This product connects using Isochronous or Bulk Pet mode. The sampling frequencies that can be transmitted are 44 .1  kHz, 48  kHz, 88 .2  kHz, 96 kHz, 176 .4  kHz, 192  kHz, 352 .8  kHz, 384  kHz, 705 .6 kHz and 768 kHz . 2 .8MHz, 5 .6MHz, 11 .2MHz and 22 .5MHz DSD are also supported .

•  22 .5MHz DSD is only supported with DSD Native playback. It is not supported with DoP (DSD Audio over PCM Frames) playback.

When connected correctly, you will be able to select “ESOTERIC USB AUDIO DEVICE” as the audio output for the operating system.
Audio data sent from the computer will be processed using this product’s clock during data transmission, enabling the reduction of jitter.
Downloading playback application ESOTERIC HR Audio Player
You can use ESOTERIC HR Audio Player to play audio files on a computer. Please download this free application from the following URL.
https://www.esoteric.jp/en/product/hr_audio_player/download

ESOTERIC HR Audio Player is a software audio player for Windows and Mac that supports high-quality playback of high-resolution audio sources. You can use it to enjoy the high-quality playback of high-resolution audio sources, including DSD, without needing to make complicated settings
ESOTERIC HR Audio Player setting note
To play 22 .5MHz DSD recordings with ESOTERIC HR Audio Player, open the Configure window and set the “Decode mode” to “DSD Native .” To play formats other than 22 .5MHz DSD, you can set this to either “DSD over PCM” or “DSD Native” as you like. For details, see “Selecting DSD decoding mode” in the ESOTERIC HR Audio player Owner’s Manual.

1. Connect this product to the computer using a USB cable.
   Use a cable with a connector that matches that of this product.
   • The USB port on this product is a B-type connector.

2. Turn the computer on.
   Confirm that the operating system has started properly

3. Press the POWER button to turn this product on.
   • Turn both left and right channel units on.

4. Press the INPUT button to select USB.

5. Start playback of an audio file on the computer.
   For better audio quality, set the computer volume to its maximum and adjust the volume of the amplifier connected to this product. Set the amplifier volume to the minimum when you start playback and gradually increase it.

• The computer cannot be used to control this product, nor can this product be used to control the computer.
• This product cannot transmit audio files to the computer by USB.
• Do not do any of the following when playing back audio files over the USB connection. Doing so could cause the computer to malfunction. Always quit the audio  Playback software before conducting any of these operations. Unplug the USB cable Turn a unit off Change the input
• Computer operation sounds will also be transmitted when playing back audio files over the USB connection. To avoid outputting these sounds, make the necessary settings on your computer.
• If you start the audio playback software before connecting this unit with the computer or before setting the input to USB, audio files might not play back properly. If this occurs, restart the audio playback software or restart the computer.

Restoring factory settings

Settings are retained even if the power plug is disconnected.
Follow these procedures to restore the factory default settings and erase all changes in memory.

•  If the left and right channel units are linked, conducting this operation on the left channel unit will also set the right channel unit to the same settings. If the left and right channel units are not linked, conduct the following procedures for each unit separately

1. Turn the units off.
   If the power is on, press the POWER button and wait at least 30 seconds before proceeding.

2. Press the POWER button while pressing and holding the MENU button.
   When “Setup CLR” (settings cleared) appears on the display, release the MENU button.

Troubleshooting

If you experience a problem with this product, please take a moment to review the following information before requesting service. Moreover, be aware that the problem might be caused by something other than this product. Please also check the operation of the connected units. If this product still does not operate correctly, contact the retailer where you purchased it

The Grandioso D1X does not turn on.
Confirm that the power cords are securely connected to the inlets on the backs of the units and to the power outlets.
Confirm that power is being supplied to the outlets to which the power cords are connected by, for example, connecting other devices to them.
One or both units automatically turn off.
This is because the automatic power-saving function turned the unit(s) off.
Press the POWER button on a unit to turn it on. Change the automatic power- saving setting(s) if necessary (page 15).
No sound is output from the speakers. The sound is distorted.
Turn the power off and check the connections with the digital audio source device, the amp, and the speakers (page 8).
Change the input set to the connector that is being used for input (page 12).
Set this product’s analog output (AOUT) setting according to the amp connection (page 15).
Adjust the volume of the amplifier and other devices.
No sampling frequency for the input signal is shown on the display.
Turn the device that is connected to the selected input connector on.
Confirm that the device is properly connected to the selected input connector.
“– – –” appears in the sampling frequency display area.
There is a problem with the input signal. Do not input signals other than PCM or DSD. Check the connection with the digital device. This unit cannot decode signals in formats such as Dolby Digital, DTS, and AAC. Have the playback device convert the signal to PCM before output.

A cyclical noise is being output.
If a cyclical noise is being output when the Grandioso D1X is in clock mode, the connected device might not also be in clock mode . Check the connection status of the clock connectors and the clock settings of connected devices.

The CLOCK indicator does not stop blinking.
Set CLK> to OFF when not using clock sync (page 14) .
A clock signal to which the unit cannot synchronize might be being input. Check the connection status of the clock connectors and the settings of connected devices . The Grandioso D1X only supports a 10MHz clock.

Since the Grandioso D1X uses a microcontroller, external noise and other interference can cause it to malfunction. If this occurs, turn the product off once, and then restart it after waiting for about one minute.

Specifications

Analog audio outputs

XLR/ESL-A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 (mono) each for left and right channels
RCA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 (mono) each for left and right channels
Output impedance
XLR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 Ω
RCA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Ω Maximum output level (when 1 kHz, full-scale PCM signal input, 10kΩ load)
XLR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 .0 Vrms
RCA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 .5
Vrms Frequency response (when 192kHz PCM signal input) 5 Hz – 75 kHz (−3 dB) S/N ratio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 dB Distortion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 .0007% (when 1 kHz, D/A converter operation mode set to M3)

Digital audio inputs

ES-LINK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Input signal formats . . . 44 .1–768 kHz, 48-bit linear PCM (ES-LINK5) 2 .8/5 .6/11 .2/22 .5MHz DSD (ES-LINK5)
XLR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . 1
Input level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 .0 Vp-p
Input impedance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 Ω
Input signal formats (using Dual connection)
88 .2–384 kHz, 16/24-bit linear PCM (Dual AES) 88 .2–192 kHz, 48-bit linear PCM (ES-LINK3) 2 .8MHz DSD (ES-LINK1, ES-LINK2, DoP)
Input signal formats (using Single connection)
32–192 kHz, 16/24-bit linear PCM (AES/EBU) 2 .8MHz DSD (ES-LINK1, ES-LINK2, DoP)
RCA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Input level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 .5 Vp-p
Input impedance . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Ω . . 32–192 kHz, 16/24-bit linear PCM (IEC 60958) 2 .8MHz DSD (DoP)
Optical digital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Input signal formats .
Input level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . −24 .0 dBm to −14 .5 dBm peak
Input signal formats …………………………… . . 32–192 kHz, 16/24-bit linear PCM (IEC 60958)  2 .8MHz DSD (DoP)
USB (USB 2 .0 supported) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 (Type B)
Input signal formats . . . . . . . 44 .1–768 kHz, 16/24/32-bit linear PCM 2 .8/5 .6/11 .2/22 .5MHz DSD
Clock input
BNC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 each for left and right channels
Input impedance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Ω
Frequency that can be input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 MHz (±10 ppm)
Input level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .sine wave, 0 .5 to 1 .0 Vrms

General

Power supply
Model for Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .AC 220–240 V, 50/60 Hz
Model for USA/Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . AC 120 V, 60 Hz
Model for Korea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . AC 220 V, 60 Hz
Model for Hong Kong . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . AC 230 V, 50 Hz
Power consumption . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 W
External dimensions (W × H × D, including protrusions) 445 × 132 × 448 (mm) (17 5/8″ × 5 1/4″ × 17 3/4″)

Weight
Left channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 .1 kg (51 lb)
Right channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 .0 kg (50 3/4 lb
Operating temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . +5°C to +35°C
Operating humidity range . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5% to 85% (no condensation)
Storage temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .−20°C to +55°C

Included accessories
Power cords × 2
HDMI cables × 2
Felt pads × 8
Owner’s manual (this document) × 1
Warranty card × 1

• Specifications and appearance are subject to change without notice .
•  Weight and dimensions are approximate.
•  Illustrations in this Owner’s Manual might differ slightly from production models.

Dimensional drawings

Foot placement diagram

ESOTERIC COMPANY
1-47 Ochiai, Tama-shi, Tokyo 206-8530,
Japan Phone: +81-42-356-9156
This product has a serial number located on the rear panel. Please write it here and retain this for your records.
Model name: Grandioso D1X
Serial number
0421∙MA-2852D

References

• Grandioso D1X | DOWNLOADS | ESOTERIC:Japan high-end audio manufacturer | エソテリック
• Esoteric HR Audio Player | DOWNLOADS | ESOTERIC:Japan high-end audio manufacturer | エソテリック

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