PS Audio Perfectwave vs Directstream DAC

Yes, quite noticeable indeed.

I’ve owned both. Unlike most, there was something about the DS that just doesn’t work for my ears. I upgraded twice, and both times sold the DS. Rebought a PWD the first time and then moved on to an Audio Mirror T3 SE that I find quite a bit superior to both.  I've also had a Shiit Bifrost 2, Matrix X sabre pro, iFi iDSD pro, Holo Audio May, & Lampizator Amber 3 in my system for auditions.  

Obviously I’m the odd man out on the Directstream impression, so YMMV. They are completely different DACs though and if there’s a house sound it’s because of power supply and input boards.

@audiodwebe I bought a PS Audio DS DAC last week and they are on close-out now.  I would guess that the upgrade from the PW to DS is as well.  I'd call them (they don't have plans to put the sale prices on the website... yet anyway) and see what they're selling the kits for.  The DSD was over 40% off.

Thanks for the info, audiom3.

cal7313, your ears are the only ones that matter so good for you that you found a sound you like.  I've never heard of Audio Mirror so will theck them out.

Cheers, and stay safe.

@audiodwebe Thanks.  I genuinely wish I knew the reason I don't like the DSD.  Would be useful to learn what's going on so I could understand my ears better.  High noise floor and rolled off bass (two measured properties of the DSD) don't capture it.