Audio and / or Video Upgrades
Product Upgrades / Technology Updates
These optional upgrades are incremental to an already outstanding Esoteric product.Technology update offerings or upgrades, are one of the benefits of being an Esoteric owner. To ensure that our customers retain maximum return on their investment in ESOTERIC products, we periodically will offer physical or software based upgrades for current owners. This allows customers to benefit from evolutions in technology, without having to purchase a new product.
By registering your product with us via the "registration form" that was supplied with your new ESOTERIC product, we have the ability to notify customers of upgrade availability.
Some upgrades may be in the form of a software update. These are usually provided at no charge. A hardware upgrade is made available as technology and components evolve over time. Click on the product model below for information about upgrades available for those listed models. If you do take part in an optional and incremental upgrade, please return your product without accessories, without remote control and without power cord as our technicians already have all of these items on site.
Video Upgrade: DV-50
ESOTERIC announces the availability of the DV-50 upgrade to current owners of the highly acclaimed ESOTERIC DV-50. This upgrade converts an original DV-50 to the same specifications and features of an Esoteric DV-50S.
WHAT IS A DV-50 UPGRADE KIT?
The kit includes improved Video Digital to Analog converters (DACs). The original Analog Devices 12-bit, 108 mHz, 6-channel DAC is replaced with the new Analog Devices 14-bit, 216 mHz, 6-channel DAC.
The kit also includes the addition of a DVI-D jack on the rear panel so the DV50 can be connected to a HDCP compliant digital High Definition TV using a DVI cable.
There are no changes to the audio circuits.
WHY DO THE UPGRADE?
The original DV-50 up sampled to a maximum of 8X for interlaced and 4X for progressive scanning. The new DAC improves the up sampling to 16X for interlaced and 8X for progressive scanning. This significantly improves the video playback quality on all the analog video output connections.
If you own a High Definition television with an HDCP compliant DVI input, you can now feed a digital video signal directly to your digital television.
WHAT IS THE COST OF THE UPGRADE?
$778.19 for the upgrade kit - (Plus any applicable taxes for your region.) This includes all new metal work, circuit cards, harnesses and components.
$150.00 Labor to install the upgrade
$50.00 for freight
Total = $978.19
Incoming freight charges will also be added if you elected to have us pick it up.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Where can the upgrade be done?
The upgrade can only be done at our Factory Service Group in Montebello, California. This upgrade involves replacing circuit cards and the complete back panel while adding a new custom wiring harness and connectors. A special computer is used to upgrade the internal firmware of your DV-50.
How long will I be without my unit?
ESOTERIC commits to completing your upgrade within 3 business days of receipt at our facility. We will return the unit FEDEX saver (3-day) unless requested to use a different service.
Do I need an appointment?
Yes, an appointment is required to ensure quick turnaround.
Freight charges can be expensive. Is there any relief?
ESOTERIC can arrange to have your unit picked up and the incoming freight charges will be added to the cost of the upgrade. This is usually a cheaper option as we have negotiated sizable discounts with freight carriers and you can take advantage of our discounts. If you are interested in this, please mention it to our Representative when scheduling your appointment.
What if I don't have the original carton?
If you do not have your original shipping carton, ESOTERIC will provide one for you at no charge. Simply tell our Representative on the telephone that you need a carton and we'll ship one to you prior to making the appointment.
If I only use my DV50 for audio, do I need to have the upgrade done?
No, this upgrade only effects video playback.
Can I get faster freight service if I'm willing to pay for it?
Absolutely. Tell our Representative you would like to have your unit shipped via overnight or two-day service and we will see to it. Of course you will be responsible to pay for the extra costs of this expedited service.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept VISA, MasterCard or American Express.
WHAT IS THE PROCESS TO GET THIS UPGRADE?
Step 1: Call us at (323) 726-0303 and punch in extension 617. Tell our Representative you are interested in the DV-50 upgrade. If you need a shipping container, go to step two - if NOT, skip step 2 and go to step 3.
Step 2: If you need a shipping carton, give the Representative your name and address and one will be sent to the location of your choice (via ground transportation). Wait for the arrival of the carton and then call us back to schedule an appointment.
Step 3: Determine your shipping options: If you would like to use our volume discounts and add the incoming freight charge to your invoice, please let us know at this time.
Step 4: We will give you an "appointment window" or approximate date for the service to be performed. This reserves your upgrade kit and allows us to guarantee the 3 business day turnaround. At this time, we will take your credit card information for later billing.
Step 5: Inside the box, please include a note or letter that gives us your Name, Address, telephone number, FAX number and email address (if available).
Step 6: Pack your DV-50 and address the outside of the box as follows:
TEAC AMERICA, INC. :
Attention: ESOTERIC DV-50 Upgrade
7733 Telegraph Road
Montebello, CA 90640
Step 7: If you have made arrangements for us to have your unit picked up, call us at (323) 726-0303 extension 617 and tell us the unit is ready for pick-up. If you have chosen to ship it yourself, go ahead and ship to arrive on or near your appointment date.
Step 8: Once we receive the machine, we will contact you to confirm the total invoice amount and credit card authorization.
Step 9: Within 3 business days, your unit will be on its way back to you.
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to either call or email us at: Esoteric_info@teac.com
WHAT IS A DV-50 UPGRADE KIT?
The kit includes improved Video Digital to Analog converters (DACs). The original Analog Devices 12-bit, 108 mHz, 6-channel DAC is replaced with the new Analog Devices 14-bit, 216 mHz, 6-channel DAC.
The kit also includes the addition of a DVI-D jack on the rear panel so the DV50 can be connected to a HDCP compliant digital High Definition TV using a DVI cable.
There are no changes to the audio circuits.
WHY DO THE UPGRADE?
The original DV-50 up sampled to a maximum of 8X for interlaced and 4X for progressive scanning. The new DAC improves the up sampling to 16X for interlaced and 8X for progressive scanning. This significantly improves the video playback quality on all the analog video output connections.
If you own a High Definition television with an HDCP compliant DVI input, you can now feed a digital video signal directly to your digital television.
WHAT IS THE COST OF THE UPGRADE?
$778.19 for the upgrade kit - (Plus any applicable taxes for your region.) This includes all new metal work, circuit cards, harnesses and components.
$150.00 Labor to install the upgrade
$50.00 for freight
Total = $978.19
Incoming freight charges will also be added if you elected to have us pick it up.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Where can the upgrade be done?
The upgrade can only be done at our Factory Service Group in Montebello, California. This upgrade involves replacing circuit cards and the complete back panel while adding a new custom wiring harness and connectors. A special computer is used to upgrade the internal firmware of your DV-50.
How long will I be without my unit?
ESOTERIC commits to completing your upgrade within 3 business days of receipt at our facility. We will return the unit FEDEX saver (3-day) unless requested to use a different service.
Do I need an appointment?
Yes, an appointment is required to ensure quick turnaround.
Freight charges can be expensive. Is there any relief?
ESOTERIC can arrange to have your unit picked up and the incoming freight charges will be added to the cost of the upgrade. This is usually a cheaper option as we have negotiated sizable discounts with freight carriers and you can take advantage of our discounts. If you are interested in this, please mention it to our Representative when scheduling your appointment.
What if I don't have the original carton?
If you do not have your original shipping carton, ESOTERIC will provide one for you at no charge. Simply tell our Representative on the telephone that you need a carton and we'll ship one to you prior to making the appointment.
If I only use my DV50 for audio, do I need to have the upgrade done?
No, this upgrade only effects video playback.
Can I get faster freight service if I'm willing to pay for it?
Absolutely. Tell our Representative you would like to have your unit shipped via overnight or two-day service and we will see to it. Of course you will be responsible to pay for the extra costs of this expedited service.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept VISA, MasterCard or American Express.
WHAT IS THE PROCESS TO GET THIS UPGRADE?
Step 1: Call us at (323) 726-0303 and punch in extension 617. Tell our Representative you are interested in the DV-50 upgrade. If you need a shipping container, go to step two - if NOT, skip step 2 and go to step 3.
Step 2: If you need a shipping carton, give the Representative your name and address and one will be sent to the location of your choice (via ground transportation). Wait for the arrival of the carton and then call us back to schedule an appointment.
Step 3: Determine your shipping options: If you would like to use our volume discounts and add the incoming freight charge to your invoice, please let us know at this time.
Step 4: We will give you an "appointment window" or approximate date for the service to be performed. This reserves your upgrade kit and allows us to guarantee the 3 business day turnaround. At this time, we will take your credit card information for later billing.
Step 5: Inside the box, please include a note or letter that gives us your Name, Address, telephone number, FAX number and email address (if available).
Step 6: Pack your DV-50 and address the outside of the box as follows:
TEAC AMERICA, INC. :
Attention: ESOTERIC DV-50 Upgrade
7733 Telegraph Road
Montebello, CA 90640
Step 7: If you have made arrangements for us to have your unit picked up, call us at (323) 726-0303 extension 617 and tell us the unit is ready for pick-up. If you have chosen to ship it yourself, go ahead and ship to arrive on or near your appointment date.
Step 8: Once we receive the machine, we will contact you to confirm the total invoice amount and credit card authorization.
Step 9: Within 3 business days, your unit will be on its way back to you.
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to either call or email us at: Esoteric_info@teac.com
Audio and Video Upgrade: X-Series and UX-Series
Upgrade Announcement - Available immediately
Upgrade kits for models X-01, UX-1, X-03, UX-3
ESOTERIC Company, a division of TEAC AMERICA, INC. is pleased to announce the availability of upgrade kits for the above referenced models. These upgrade kits include technology updates which transform the player into a designated "Limited" Edition or "SE" (Special Edition) version. Optional video upgrades are available for the UX3SE and UX1Pi that add HDMI v1.3 output connections and provide HD resolutions up to 1080p, from your existing DVDs, without having to buy new software. The video upgrade uses evolutionary technology provided by Anchor Bay Technologies and Esoteric. Esoteric's exclusive HDMI "EXP" feature also enhances video output with added black level detail.
These technology upgrades are optional and incremental to an already outstanding audio or video product and allow you to take advantage of evolutions in technology, without having to purchase a new player.
What do the audio upgrades consist of?
The upgrades includes changing several components and modifying circuits in the DAC and analog output section of the player. These components and circuit changes were selected during the development of the Flagship ESOTERIC P-01/D-01 products. After hours of listening tests, we feel the upgraded machines have superior ambiance and "presence". These improvements also allow a more "natural impact," greater transparency and a deeper soundstage or depth of field.
In addition to the circuit and component changes, the unbalanced audio output jacks as well as the digital audio output jacks are upgraded to WBT "NextGen" connectors. These new connectors offer much higher performance primarily in the elimination of "Eddy currents" and the resultant noise. These new connectors also allow for true 75 ohm impedance matching from the digital output.
Internal wiring is upgraded to 6N copper class wiring. This wiring was jointly developed with Mitsubishi Cable Industries and Acro Japan Ltd. (This wiring is 99.999% pure copper).
What does the kit do to the sound I'll hear?
There are subtle but audible improvements in the "openness" of the audio. As mentioned above, presence, transparency and ambiance of the source recording becomes more defined.
What is done mechanically to the player in an audio upgrade?
Our factory trained technicians will replace components within your player. These are predominantly capacitors and resistors but also include some hardware changes like pure copper grounding screws. Some of the actual audio wiring is changed and the main wiring harness is upgraded to new 6N copper class. The back panel connectors are changed to WBT-0210Cu RCA style connectors and a gold badge indicating either "Limited" or "SE version" is affixed to the top cover.
What is the "Pi" universal player upgrade?
The "Pi upgrade," installs new technology that allows video output through a HDMI v1.3 connection. This connection replaces the DVI output connection found on the UX-3SE and UX-1 Limited. With this optional and incremental upgrade, video resolution output from standard DVDs improves beyond 720p/1080i to include 1080p "HD resolution," while maintaining our "EXP" enhancement. Esoteric's "EXP mode" adds black level detail. The 1080p video output board includes the Anchor Bay scan conversion chipset and our 14 bit video processing. This upgrade also allows the HDMI connection to carry audio signals to your video display or pre-amp/processor (if so equipped).
What is the D2 upgrade?
The D2 upgrade acoustically takes the X-01 Limited up to X-01D2 component and wiring status. This upgrade also adds an additional DSD decoder board for native SACD playback.
How much do these kits cost to install?
The kits typically require 8 full hours of technician time to install. For our United States and Canadian customers, these upgrades can only be installed by ESOTERIC/TEAC AMERICA, INC. in California. (ESOTERIC owners in other countries should check with their local dealers or distributors for this service).
* Freight is an approximation and subject to change depending on service level and shipping distance.
What steps do I need to do to have my unit upgraded?
First thing is to call our offices at (323) 727-7617 and we'll discuss with you, availability and scheduling for the kit installation. Because this process is so labor intensive, we must schedule the technician's time accordingly. This ensures the fastest turnaround time and therefore minimizes the downtime for you.
If you require packaging materials, notify our Customer Service person during your scheduling conversation. New packaging is available for a fee.
Once you have your appointment (and packaging), pack up your player and ship it to arrive on or about the day of your appointment.
It will ship to:
TEAC AMERICA, INC.
Attention: ESOTERIC Upgrade
7733 Telegraph Road
Montebello, CA . 90640
(323) 726-0303
Shipping is expensive. Is there any relief?
You can take advantage of our shipping discounts. Because we have bulk agreements with many carriers, we can usually get fairly deep discounts in freight costs. We can arrange for your product to be picked up from the location of your choice. The cost of shipping will be added to your upgrade costs. If you would like to take advantage of this, please let the Customer Service person know this when you are making your appointment.
What if I have any other questions?
For additional information, email Esoteric_info@teac.com or call our Technical Support line at (323) 727-7617.
Upgrade kits for models X-01, UX-1, X-03, UX-3
ESOTERIC Company, a division of TEAC AMERICA, INC. is pleased to announce the availability of upgrade kits for the above referenced models. These upgrade kits include technology updates which transform the player into a designated "Limited" Edition or "SE" (Special Edition) version. Optional video upgrades are available for the UX3SE and UX1Pi that add HDMI v1.3 output connections and provide HD resolutions up to 1080p, from your existing DVDs, without having to buy new software. The video upgrade uses evolutionary technology provided by Anchor Bay Technologies and Esoteric. Esoteric's exclusive HDMI "EXP" feature also enhances video output with added black level detail.
These technology upgrades are optional and incremental to an already outstanding audio or video product and allow you to take advantage of evolutions in technology, without having to purchase a new player.
What do the audio upgrades consist of?
The upgrades includes changing several components and modifying circuits in the DAC and analog output section of the player. These components and circuit changes were selected during the development of the Flagship ESOTERIC P-01/D-01 products. After hours of listening tests, we feel the upgraded machines have superior ambiance and "presence". These improvements also allow a more "natural impact," greater transparency and a deeper soundstage or depth of field.
In addition to the circuit and component changes, the unbalanced audio output jacks as well as the digital audio output jacks are upgraded to WBT "NextGen" connectors. These new connectors offer much higher performance primarily in the elimination of "Eddy currents" and the resultant noise. These new connectors also allow for true 75 ohm impedance matching from the digital output.
Internal wiring is upgraded to 6N copper class wiring. This wiring was jointly developed with Mitsubishi Cable Industries and Acro Japan Ltd. (This wiring is 99.999% pure copper).
What does the kit do to the sound I'll hear?
There are subtle but audible improvements in the "openness" of the audio. As mentioned above, presence, transparency and ambiance of the source recording becomes more defined.
What is done mechanically to the player in an audio upgrade?
Our factory trained technicians will replace components within your player. These are predominantly capacitors and resistors but also include some hardware changes like pure copper grounding screws. Some of the actual audio wiring is changed and the main wiring harness is upgraded to new 6N copper class. The back panel connectors are changed to WBT-0210Cu RCA style connectors and a gold badge indicating either "Limited" or "SE version" is affixed to the top cover.
What is the "Pi" universal player upgrade?
The "Pi upgrade," installs new technology that allows video output through a HDMI v1.3 connection. This connection replaces the DVI output connection found on the UX-3SE and UX-1 Limited. With this optional and incremental upgrade, video resolution output from standard DVDs improves beyond 720p/1080i to include 1080p "HD resolution," while maintaining our "EXP" enhancement. Esoteric's "EXP mode" adds black level detail. The 1080p video output board includes the Anchor Bay scan conversion chipset and our 14 bit video processing. This upgrade also allows the HDMI connection to carry audio signals to your video display or pre-amp/processor (if so equipped).
What is the D2 upgrade?
The D2 upgrade acoustically takes the X-01 Limited up to X-01D2 component and wiring status. This upgrade also adds an additional DSD decoder board for native SACD playback.
How much do these kits cost to install?
The kits typically require 8 full hours of technician time to install. For our United States and Canadian customers, these upgrades can only be installed by ESOTERIC/TEAC AMERICA, INC. in California. (ESOTERIC owners in other countries should check with their local dealers or distributors for this service).
| KIT TYPE | Kit Cost | Labor | Freight | TOTAL |
| X-01 to X-01 LTD. | $613.45 | $500.00 | $75.00* | $1188.45 |
| X-01 LTD. to X-01D2 | $3303.25 | $500.00 | $75.00* | $3878.25 |
| UX-1 to UX-1 LTD. | $613.45 | $500.00 | $75.00* | $1188.45 |
| UX-1 LTD to UX-1Pi | $1515.97 | $500.00 | $75.00* | $2090.97 |
| X-03 to X-03 SE | $662.72 | $500.00 | $75.00* | $1237.72 |
| UX-3 to UX-3 SE | $662.72 | $500.00 | $75.00* | $1237.72 |
| UX-3 SE to UX-3Pi | $1424.85 | $500.00 | $75.00* | $1999.85 |
* Freight is an approximation and subject to change depending on service level and shipping distance.
What steps do I need to do to have my unit upgraded?
First thing is to call our offices at (323) 727-7617 and we'll discuss with you, availability and scheduling for the kit installation. Because this process is so labor intensive, we must schedule the technician's time accordingly. This ensures the fastest turnaround time and therefore minimizes the downtime for you.
If you require packaging materials, notify our Customer Service person during your scheduling conversation. New packaging is available for a fee.
Once you have your appointment (and packaging), pack up your player and ship it to arrive on or about the day of your appointment.
It will ship to:
TEAC AMERICA, INC.
Attention: ESOTERIC Upgrade
7733 Telegraph Road
Montebello, CA . 90640
(323) 726-0303
Shipping is expensive. Is there any relief?
You can take advantage of our shipping discounts. Because we have bulk agreements with many carriers, we can usually get fairly deep discounts in freight costs. We can arrange for your product to be picked up from the location of your choice. The cost of shipping will be added to your upgrade costs. If you would like to take advantage of this, please let the Customer Service person know this when you are making your appointment.
What if I have any other questions?
For additional information, email Esoteric_info@teac.com or call our Technical Support line at (323) 727-7617.
The G-0s series update takes the G-0s master clock sync generator to G-0Rb status. Front panel, display and selected internal components are enhanced with new technology. Total consumer cost of this upgrade is $2382.98. For more information on this upgrade please call 323-726-0303, ext. 617.
iLINK/Firewire upgrade kit for models: AI-10, X-05, SA-10, SA-60 and DV-60.
Note: iLINK (IEEE1394/Firewire), protocol is different for audio playback and PC applications. This upgrade kit is audio compliant only and does not allow PC connectivity.