Esoteric Grandioso T1: proprietary MagneDrive with digital timing

The Esoteric Grandioso T1 was the first turntable in the brand’s 35 year history, as well as its first analog system. However, Esoteric would not be itself if the system did not include something digital. In the case of the Grandioso T1, this is the possibility of using the proprietary Grandioso G1X Master Clock, which is able to synchronize the frequency of the built-in drive on a 10 MHz carrier.

Esoteric MagneDrive System

For the first time the Esoteric Grandioso T1 was shown at the Tokyo audio show last fall. At the heart of the novelty, according to the manufacturer, “the patented unique non-contact Esoteric MagneDrive System, which inductively synchronizes the rotation of the magnetic drive and the disk, providing quiet and smooth rotation at an unusually accurate speed“. In this case, the drive is outside the disk – that is, the Esoteric Grandioso T1 cannot be considered a system with a central drive, although it does not use a belt. The disc bearing is complemented by a Magne-Float magnetic system, which reduces the weight of a nearly 20kg disc by a factor of five, reducing friction.

The turntable itself weighs 45kg, and the separate power supply weighs another 18kg. Esoteric Grandioso T1 is fundamental, just look at its sandwich body – between two shaped polished aluminum plates there is a damping wooden layer, covered with piano lacquer on the visible end.

The device received micrometric adjustment of the installation geometry, it stands on special vibration-isolating legs, and the rotation speeds (33 1/3 and 45) are regulated within 0.1%. The Grandioso T1 is available with or without a dynamically balanced TA-9D tonearm, with optional platforms for an additional three tonearms. The price of Esoteric Grandioso T1 in Europe will be 70,000 euros.

Esoteric Grandioso T1 Specifications

• Overall Dimensions: (W×H×D, including protrusions) Main Unit: 497 × 210 × 456mm Power Supply Unit: 445 × 132 × 270mm
• Weight:
  Main Unit: 45kg
  Main Chassis: 17kg
  Platter: 19kg
  Motor Unit: 9kg
  Power Supply Unit: 18kg
• High quality VCXO motor driver ensures precise platter rotation.
• 10MHz Clock Sync capability with the Grandioso G1X Master Clock.
• Two speed control (33/45 rpm), adjustable with 0.1% order.
• The T1 is offered with TA-9D dynamic balance tonearm, or without tonearm configuration.