Esoteric P-03 - Manual (Page 4)

4
The latest VRDS mechanism for Super Audio CD
(Specially developed ball bearings for the optimum VRDS mechanism.)
The VRDS mechanism securely clamps the disc to the turntable whose diameter is exactly the same
as that of the disc. This system completely eliminates vibration inherent to removable media and
unwanted vibrations generated by the mechanical systems. Also, this mechanism clamps the disc at
a slight inclination so as to compensate for warping or deformation improving the accuracy of the
optical axes of both the laser pickup and the pit surface of the disc. This is effective in reducing
errors in reading the disc data as well as in preventing timing errors from erratic data acquisition
timing.
To achieve the high-speed rotation with superior stability that is required of a Super Audio CD
player, the P-03 is equipped with a duralumin turntable. A specially developed processing
technology was used to enable high-precision forming of this lightweight material normally used in
building aircraft.
In a joint development project with NSK Ltd. , we developed proprietary, highly precise ball bearings
for the VRDS mechanism. Rolling elements made from precisely machined ceramic balls provide
ultra smooth rotation. The application of a pre-load to the ball bearing pair ensures a high rigidity
and precise rotation not present in conventional bearings but necessary for handling the wide
rotational range from normal CD to Super Audio CD playback.
A massive 20mm-thick, SS400 steel bridge supports the mechanism to control vibrations produced
by turntable rotation.
Coreless motor employing neodymium magnet
Esoteric has developed a new, life-long three-phase brushless spindle motor for high-speed rotation
of the large diameter turntable. Combined with the high-precision ball bearings that firmly hold the
turntable in place, this motor helps to further minimize rotation irregularities and vibrations. The
magnetic field of the neodymium magnet has been optimized through magnetic field analysis to
minimize fluctuations in motor drive current and reduce the impact on audio circuits.
A pickup designed to prevent tilting of the laser optical axis and
speed feedback-controlled sled transport
The pickup of the P-03 has a highly rigid sliding-shaft structure that prevents the lens from tilting
and the laser optical axis is kept precisely aligned with the media’s bit track. The sled moving
mechanism uses a proprietary Hall element sensing-type, three-phase brushless motor while
powerful electronic speed feedback circuits control this sled mechanism for quick access, thereby
ensuring smooth, continuous movement with superior response.
Shutter isolates the mechanism from external influences
The tray opening and closing mechanism is equipped with a shutter for greater precision and to
eliminate adverse effects from external sound pressure and vibrations on mechanical units. When
closed, the shutter mechanism is mechanically secured to the front panel to prevent it from
moving.
Power supply housed in separate chassis
The P-03 shares the dual block structure concept introduced in the P-01 where the power supply
and the VRDS mechanism are housed in independent blocks.
The enclosure provides a high degree of isolation yet high capacity in a compact design.
The power supply consists of two transformers, one for the mechanism and the servo drive and the
other for processing digital signals. The WB transformer for the mechanism and the servo drive
ensures low current loss and quick response.
Features