Absolute top tier DAC for standard res Redbook CD

Playback Designs has a great reputation. I don’t ever make a comment about a DAC without hearing it. The ODSE has outclassed several very high level dacs before though....

So I finally tried the ODSE with a few different USB cables and 2 different sources. The issue is infrequent but does continue to happen. I’m sending my ODSE back to Steve for a looksi. If doable, he will gut my unit and upgrade to an ODSX with a small  wad’o’dough. How cool would that be!!!

Still waiting for my Emm.....

Amp is on its way for repairs. I'm down and without my wonderful system. Sigh. 

I have had a PS Audio DirectStream DAC now for about 18 months and am still discovering new sounds in my 44.1/16 files.  I had to send my media server back to the factory for a repair, and since my streaming services don't have all the albums I enjoy listening to, I started investigating and snagged a PS Audio PerfectWave Transport, with an I2S (HDMI) cable.  This combination from PS Audio is absolutely fantastic.  Immediately upon playing the first CD I noticed much better impact and control in the bass, significantly improved dynamics in sounds like cymbals, better soundstage and just better overall fidelity.

I was so impressed I moved my CD library down to the "man cave" (a major effort!)

Glad you enjoying your DirectStream.  It's about what makes you happy. Not anyone else....

I have heard most versions and none do it for me like the ODSE. But that's irrelevant if you love it in your system!!

Speaking of my ODSE. It is on its way back to Steve to be magically transformed into an ODSX. Since it needed to go back for a tune up anyway I figured why not go for broke and go SX baby!!! I decided on his new xmos USB OffRamp tech even though it won't do 176/192. I could do the Ethernet input but I don't understand how I would connect it to my Mac mini or to an Aurender or Lumen.....  If someon can explain how to accomplish that and make it work and sound better then I will consider it. Steve, feel free to chime in as well. 

I think it will be several months before my ODSX returns. I'm praying my Emm will be here in the interim. 

Many Burmy amp is getting picked up Friday and we have confirmed it needs service. Once it's at the shop and evaluated I'll report on its issues and let everyone know how long I'll be down for. 

I have a fully supper up Audio Magic power conditioner to try out once my system is up and running. If the Shunyata beats it then I'm going for the top tier Shunyata conditioners. Also still need to upgrade those power cables on the amps to Sigma HC's. Too much to do, too little money right now.....

stay tuned. Sorry for the slow and infrequent posts. With the system off line I'm sad and music less. 

Sorry Matt.  Have you tried the new AQ Niagara Power station?  I've only talked to one person who has used it and he was blown away at how low the noise floor became and how strong the dynamics are now. He claimed he had all the top conditioners in and this was the first one that he could plug his mono blocks in without losing some steam.  I think they are all upgrading the grounding and it's a huge difference as it keeps everything so clean.  I am not an engineer, but that's a common thread.  

Update:

My amp is fixed and I should have it back next week. 

Many ODSE is in Steve's gentle hands and is waiting patiently (ok, not so patiently) for its IQ upgrade to ODSX status. I'm thinking 6-8 weeks. 

Once my amp is back I will start setting up and fine tuning my Terres turntable and new phono stage since that will be my source until either my ODSX comes in or the Emm arrives.