Educate me about DSD

@nevada_matt 

I only use USB as that offers the highest allowable sample rates for playback in my system. I typically buy the “native” sample rate file the music was recorded at and store on my MacBook Pro. I use Tascam’s Hi Res Editor to resample the files to the format supported by my server and/or dac.

I like the presentation DSD offers but honestly I usually stick with purchasing CD’s. I would get into it more if the cost to purchase was lower and there was a larger selection within the genres I listen to.

“Is there any transport other than USB to feed a dac a dsd file?”

@nevada_matt 

Any Aurender Transport (streamer) is capable of streaming Native DSD files over Ethernet as long as your DAC supports Ethernet protocol. 

Some DSD sounds good. Some doesn’t.

From a page online:

WHAT ARE SOME DRAWBACKS OF USING DSD?
The problem with DSD is that it is noisier and offers a more limited frequency range than comparable 24-bit PCM of a sampling rate >88.2kHz.

As a 1-bit format, there isn’t enough space in DSD for it to be dithered properly. As a result, you end up with an elevated noise floor.

The same issue applies to the DAC designs that originally inspired the format.

✔ I agree 100% with the above.

NCH software - express rip - it’s bit perfect for ripping CD-Rs. Much better than DSD imo.

Regarding SACD/CD Players:

SACD is DSD format

However, many/most SACD players convert DSD to PCM internally before sending out to _____.

Some, like the xa5400ES I chose, retain DSD and Send DSD out to ____

two steps of DSD advantages:

1. during recording

2. during playback

SO, if converted to PCM in the player, the advantage during recording is retained.

This may be helpful,

https://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/manufacture/0218/DSD_Versus_PCM_Myth_Versus_Truth.htm

Generally DSD files are more error-prone than compared PCM files. If you create an MP3 or WAV file from a DSD file, it will be more likely to have problems like clipping or distortion.

Best is to play each format on its dedicated dac.

@elliottbnewcombjr Sony did it right even on their first SACD player the SCD-1.