@panditji
Hope you get your Harbeth's soon.
More on the Esoteric SA10
Excerpt from this link:
RECENT AUDIO NOTES
"After evaluating and living with many of the Esoteric models (X03SE, P05/D05, P03/D03), it seemed time to review the entry level player to determine just how it stacks up against its more costly siblings. While Esoteric offers superb performance and build quality at all price points, there is a definite sonic benefit by going to the more expensive models. The SA-10 retails for $3,500, which is significantly less than half of the X03SE (now $9,500).
The SA-10 is beautifully built, no surprises here as this is the Esoteric hallmark. It also performs at a very high level given its cost, but it is distinctly inferior to the X03 SE, and not comparable to the Esoteric separates. Now for the details...
The SA-10 retains the basic sound of the X03 SE. It is very immediate, detailed and transparent. No rolled off highs or smoothing over of details (characteristic of other units such as the Marantz Sa 7 and 11). Most of the information on the source material is reproduced cleanly and accurately. Without access to the X03 SE or the Esoteric separates, the SA-10 would satisfy most listeners and all listeners who have not heard the state of the art players. Its errors are those of omission. Consequently, it is not apparent what is missing until it is heard.
By moving up to the X03SE, the improvements revolve around weight and body. The 03 sounds ballsier, gutsier with more flesh on the bones. Midbass has more substance and the harmonics of all instruments and voices are more complete. The SA-10 is slightly threadbare by comparison. The other sonic area of difference lies in the soundstage. While the SA-10 throws an open window on the sound, the X03 SE expands upon that window and virtually eliminates it. Images are larger and the wall boundaries of the listening room expand.
At its price point, the SA-10 stands out. It is constructed to a very high standard and is overall sonically superior to its competition. While it cannot compete with the far more expensive players in the Esoteric line, it is highly recommended* if $3,500 is the limit to one's budget."
hyeah:
