Delta Sigma DACs

Can a Delta-Sigma DAC translate both DSD and PCM streams to analog?

The answer is definitely YES.

I would view with appropriate suspicion the views of those who assert that modern delta sigma chips are inherently inferior, even as applied to PCM. First, IMO you must completely discount the views of a manufacturer (like Mojo Music) who markets a unit using a different kind of chip.

Delta sigma chips have become a target for condemnation because they are ubiquitous. Consider the ESS9038pro Sabre. It’s relatively inexpensive because it is produced in great quantity. It probably has more R&D behind it than any other chip by far. Because it is relatively less expensive its implementation in consumer devices varies from very simple (and cheap) to superb.(and expensive). But they all can tout they use an industry-leading DAC chip.

Bottom line is that some of the best sounding and best reviewed devices use the ESS chip. Many other devices using other chips and technologies are also great sounding and well reviewed. There are those who speak of a sound signature of particular chips. IMO the sound of a modern well designed unit should be of the software and not of the chip. In well designed units that’s what i expect to hear, the particular chip notwithstanding.

The fact that D/A converter is Delta Sigma does not make it DSD capable - ESS9038pro has interface for DSD but Wolfson  WM8740 doesn't.

I’d send another email to Cambridge tech support asking whether the player is actually reading the Redbook layer or is converting the SACD data stream to PCM format.

Judging by the CXU manual, the menus’ appearance is very similar to my Oppo BDP-103. On the Oppo, there are three options - stereo, multi-channel, CD mode. The last option makes it clear that it’s only reading the CD layer of a hybrid disc.

NOTE: Just found a link that might offer a partial explanation - https://techsupport.cambridgeaudio.com/hc/en-us/articles/115002330445-How-can-I-correctly-set-up-the...

I believe the Audio Format section deals only with digital outputs. For DSD output, you need to connect to an outboard processor using HDMI due to copyright restrictions. If you're using analog outputs, then you should be listening to the SACD layer at all times. Still, I'd send an email back to tech support to confirm.

Hi Cheeg, I'm a CXU owner....
The CXU plays the CD or SACD layer on a hybrid SACD (two or multichannel) you have to decide which in the audio set up menu - also make sure you set it to 'PCM' and NOT 'auto' or 'DSD'  - 'auto' seems to cause a delay and DSD is only if you're intending to send DSD out of the player.
The Wolfson DAC's convert the DSD to PCM on board and only play DSD 64 (two or multichannel) your can also play DSD 64 files from USB sticks or by streaming to it.
You can set it to send out DSD from the player via HDMI so if you can find a DAC to hook up that can decode DSD that's another option....
Hope this helps.