Educate me about DSD

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.

I think DSD is fine, but I've not heard it be an exceptional improvement over high resolution PCM in a very long time.

IMHO, the legend of DSD being superior to PCM was both a combination of being better a long time ago plus some sweetening magic in DSD releases.

If you like DSD though I stronly encourage you to check out Blue Coast Records:

SACD, the primary difference I become aware of (not hear), is a lower noise floor, very nice for most, however that can be un-naturally quiet on sparse piano for instance.

bhvf and designsfx

I bought a HiFi Rose RS250 and it has an internal dac and my understanding is that it can play DSD 64, DSD 128, DSD 246 and DSD 512. I just don’t know how I would configure the player to do this?  Streaming via a site like tidal (but not tidal)? Local files via HDD or Network? possibly on USB drive?