ESOTERIC® disc players use proprietary disc transport systems, each designed to reduce noise, vibration, tracking errors and error correction.
In addition to these designs, Esoteric players utilize a "read until right" (RUR), advanced stage memory buffer. Typically a RUR system is active only when errors are present. Esoteric implements this process for all data. Data is buffered into a much larger SDRAM memory than is typically used, providing higher accuracy for RUR retrieval while also adding power to required digital processing. This helps to eliminate a much higher level of jitter (errors). The "simplicity" of the Esoteric digital signal processor (DSP), as compared to a computer driven device, is ideal. The signal path is very short, there are dedicated digital signal processors with built-in memory controllers and SDRAM memory chips being less than an inch away. Add Esoteric's precise clocking and power supply, plus the massive VRDS-Neo transport that spins a CD at 4 times the normal rate, without any sign of mechanical vibration, and you have the best possible solution. Furthermore, Esoteric's designs do not allow any off axis data tracking so no off axis error correction is ever required. This also provides a higher level of accuracy for data retrieval.
Several transport designs created by Esoteric are used with various options based on product category and cost. Esoteric’s VRDS assembly has evolved through over 21 years of engineering. Esoteric’s experience in electro-mechanical design goes back to the founding of our parent company, TEAC Corporation in 1953. All Esoteric transport mechanisms and optical pick-ups are conceived, designed, engineered and manufactured in Japan.
Esoteric's 2 major categories of disc transports include:
1). The VRDS-Neo assembly is manufactured in steel and aluminum, steel and magnesium, and hybrid steel with a bulk molding compound. VRDS is a “Vibration Free, Rigid Disc Clamping System.” VRDS-Neo indicates the latest generation of the VRDS system. VRDS has been in use for over 21 years.
2). VOSP assemblies are manufactured with metal, aluminum, hybrid metals and hardened ABS. This is ESOTERIC’s “Vertically Aligned Optical Stability Platform.” This assembly provides many benefits of VRDS at more affordable price points. Control boards, tray material and clamping options are selected based on Esoteric product specifications and/or by OEM preference.
In addition to use in all Esoteric players, Esoteric provides these proprietary transport mechanisms and control boards to other manufacturers on an OEM basis.
To download a PDF file (1.7 MB), on Esoteric transport mechanisms please click here.
