Esoteric RZ-1 - Manual (Page 2)

RZ-1
Integrated Music System
Sophisticated integration of high end elements
dedicated to audiophiles.
The ESOTERIC "RZ-1" is a high-end integrated music system that houses a
Super Audio CD/CD drive mechanism, a 32 bit D/A converter, a phonostage
and an integrated amplifier, all within an elegant, low profile body.
The RZ-1 features a drive mechanism that is capable of Super Audio CD and
CD playback using its high resolution 32-bit DA converter. This system offers
a complete set of external inputs, including three digital inputs (USB, coaxial,
and optical digital), enabling it to support digital audio inputs in studio
master quality from a PC or other external devices. The RZ-1 is also equipped
with ESOTERIC’s custom design integrated power amplifier, which amplifies
all sources signals in true high fidelity.
Though the RZ-1 is an integrated system that is best suited for casual
listening, it faithfully incorporates the high-end design implementation that
is characteristic of ESOTERIC, and was developed to be the finest integrated
music system in its class.
Slot loading SACD/CD drive mechanism
'High-rez media convergence' is the design philosophy of
the RZ-1. The RZ-1 is compatible with high-rez SA-CD discs.
Three types of digital input terminals,
including USB to support the playback of
high-resolution PC based music files
In addition to coaxial and optical inputs (24-bit/192 kHz
compatible), the RZ-1 is also equipped with a USB input (24-
bit/96 kHz). By connecting to your PC and utilizing high
levels of data resolution to transmit and amplify sound, this
system enables you to playback high-resolution music files,
from hard disk drive PC storage, in studio master quality.
ESOTERIC's high-end expertise was fully applied to design
the USB input, with great care and attention given to detail.
In order to prevent external interference from mixing with
the audio signal, the RZ-1 is equipped with a USB isolator.
This enables the RZ-1 to isolate the USB power supply and
signal lines from the device.
32-bit D/A converter with true high quality sound
The DAC device installed in the RZ-1 is the "AK4392",
produced by Asahi Kasei Microdevices Corporation. This
device is compatible with both DSD and PCM formats. Our
relentless pursuit to produce high quality sound is also
reflected in the digital signal processing circuit that was
developed for the RZ-1. This circuit delivers high speed and
processing capabilities, and enhances the analog circuit’s
ability to receive data.
The input I/F, digital filters, and Delta-Sigma modulator are
all capable of 32-bit processing. If data with a resolution of
24 bits or less is input, the digital operation circuit performs
high-precision extrapolation, thereby contributing to higher
sound quality.
Two types of user selectable digital filters
The RZ-1 is equipped with two different types of digital
filters for PCM format signal processing. In addition to the
finite impulse response ("FIR") digital filter, which is known for
its outstanding sound quality, a short-delay digital filter is
also available to remove the pre-echo effect inherent in
impulse waveforms, thus creating a more natural generation
of sound. The filter selection used is entirely user selectable.
ESOTERIC amplifier technology for
the precise amplification of music data,
delivering a smooth yet full sound
The RZ-1 is equipped with a powerful analog power
supply circuit. This circuit combines the largest toroidal
transformer that can be installed within the integrated
system's slim body, and large capacitors for rectifying the
circuit. The driving capacity of the ESOTERIC power ampli-
fier is more than sufficient to drive low-efficiency, small-
sized high-end loudspeakers, achieving a full and natural
expression of sound.
Two sets of analog input terminals
The RZ-1 comes with two sets of RCA audio connections. One
set can be switched to serve as MM phono input terminals.
A comprehensive range of functions boost
the capability of this integrated system
The RZ-1 features a wide variety of functions, including
power standby, bass and treble tone controls, L/R signal
balance control, a sleep timer, and display dimmer.
Because it is an integrated system designed for casual
listening, special care and attention has been given to
ensure that RZ-1 is easy to use.
Curved lines and surfaces create artistic front face
Low profile standing 77 mm (3 inches) tall, serves as a
great compliment to your interior design. Care and atten-
tion to detail that cannot be found in mass produced items
has been applied to the RZ-1, creating a product that
appears to have been endowed with the craftsman's
touch. The front panel, with a maximum thickness of 40
mm, is cut from a solid block of aluminum. A total of eight
hours of work were needed to three-dimensionally process
the aluminum, within a one-micrometer measure of
precision. By deftly integrating the curved surfaces and
lines with precisely cut lines, the result is an elegant,
streamlined design from the front to the top, creating a
sense of artistic presence.
Simple design with only the essential operations
on the front panel
Looking to enjoy the pure pleasure of those moments of
serenity and relaxation? For those with a refined and
discriminate taste in their lifestyle, the system's operations
are extremely simple. The round-shaped push buttons are
designed to compliment the streamlined front design.
Likewise, the simple design bearing only the essential
operations, such as PLAY and volume, further enhances the
system's usability and brings the pleasure of listening to
music closer to your heart.