Anyone Listening to DSD files?

Nsirkin,

How would you compare the Teac vs the Mytek on PCM files? Thanks.

Boisty

DSD does tend to sound best from my Mytek DAC. But, I've not had too many (any?) opportunities to compare the same recording in both DSD and high res PCM where I could be certain that one wasn't just converted from the other.

The other night I compared "Like Minds" in 88/24 PCM from HDTracks to the DSD ripped directly from the SACD. The levels were nearly evenly matched, which made the comparison easy to do. The DSD was fuller sounding, with richer tones, and greater dimensionality. But it was very likely the case where the HDTracks version was converted from DSD - so not really a fair comparison of DSD to PCM.

I think ideally one should have the capability to play both DSD and PCM as music tends to be available on one format and not the other. Also something is lost when converting DSD to PCM, so it's best to play DSD natively.

See:
www.stereophile.com/content/news-flash-oppo-now-plays-dsd-files

I have both a Chord QuteHD and Playback Designs MPD-3 and via DSD they both easily best any PCM DAC I have heard - and believe me I have heard a few.

Just as an example I was with the maker of my beloved PDX DAC and we did a comparison of the Chord without the benefit even of an upgraded power supply which improved things. DSD of Harry Belafonte - Sylvie was easily better than the same track through the PDX - even the maker agreed - which sent him off investigating how to lift the PDX - with some success I might add - but exactly how it fares to the Chord or PD remains to be seen.

DSD IMHO is the way of the future for audiophiles - its simply better.

Thanks
Bill

If you have a DSD DAC and are interested in comparing the SQ of DSD and PCM, you can download some sample tracks from the link below. It has three songs with tracks in 24/96 PCM, 24/192 PCM, and DSD formats.

You will need to register to get to the download but I think it is worth the trouble.

http://designwsound.com/dwsblog/recordings/audiophile-jazz-prologue-3-free-hi-res-samples/