I like the PS DSD DAC with Snowmass. I didn’t like Redcloud nearly as much. The magic of this DAC is likely in the transformer output. Like tubes, transformers aren’t the best measuring devices but somehow in some configurations they add clarity or enhance the sound. It may be galvanic isolation, perfect balance (great CMRR) or a tendency to have less IMD at higher frequencies or typical 3rd harmonic transformer distortion ( think power chord ). Whatever it is that transformers do - they most definitely have their charm - many of the best studio vocal microphones are transformer coupled to the mixing desk.
I agree that multiple firmware updates that change the sound suggest that it was released a bit too early (a work in progress). I would hope it is now stabilized. I believe Snowmass is 4x DSD on the output. It will be interesting to see if Ted’s new DAC can improve things further or if this DAC was some kind of fluke...certainly the transformer output should ideally be placed further away from power and other circuits.
If anything this DAC sounds a bit laid back but still punchy - could it be tape-like in the way it distorts but without hiss? Tape is treasured by audio professionals and it suffers from magnetic flux hysteresis and saturation much in the way a transformer does?
I agree that multiple firmware updates that change the sound suggest that it was released a bit too early (a work in progress). I would hope it is now stabilized. I believe Snowmass is 4x DSD on the output. It will be interesting to see if Ted’s new DAC can improve things further or if this DAC was some kind of fluke...certainly the transformer output should ideally be placed further away from power and other circuits.
If anything this DAC sounds a bit laid back but still punchy - could it be tape-like in the way it distorts but without hiss? Tape is treasured by audio professionals and it suffers from magnetic flux hysteresis and saturation much in the way a transformer does?