PS Audio DirectStream DAC

[Masterlu]

Originally Posted by Audiophilehi

Thanks as always Ivan!

The DSD 4X light is illuminated in purple when decoding said file.

[RLF]

No Bryson in my system, but I still have the PS Audio DirectStream and also an Ayre QX-5 DAC. While I still like the DirectStream and depend on it playing my SACD collection using my PSA DMP Transport, I prefer the Ayre with my Aurender N10 music server. I find the Ayre more dynamic, lively with a little more meat on its bones; at least context in my system.

[Poppyhome]

I detect a little bit of bad blood going on here now.

Ron

[RLF]

Originally Posted by Poppyhome

I detect a little bit of bad blood going on here now.

Ron

If your detection of “a little bit of bad blood” is due to my post above in comparing the Ayre and PS Audio DACs, I apologize as that was not my intent and I was probably out of line for saying what I did on a PS Audio manufacturer forum. My bad.

FWIW, It is my opinion that selection of a particular DAC is a very personal one and dependant on a particular system, room, as well as a particular set of listener’s ears.

[Poppyhome]

Only surprised how quickly PS Audio is no longer a recommended component here, even within its given forum ..................hence my term.

Ron

[Masterlu]

I will always keep my one DirectStream DAC for comparison purposes.

[Poppyhome]

Originally Posted by Masterlu

I will always keep my one DirectStream DAC for comparison purposes.

Wondering if you have Snowmass installed and did you notice a difference from previous Redcloud.

Ron

[Masterlu]

Originally Posted by Poppyhome

Wondering if you have Snowmass installed and did you notice a difference from previous Redcloud.

Ron

Ron... yes, I’m running Snowmass and it was an improvement from the previous Redcloud.

FWIW, I also have other brands/components for comparison purposes. Didn’t want you to think I was picking on PS Audio.

[doggiehowser]

If I had to pick an off the shelf chip on which to design a DAC, the AKM449x series (also used in Linn, Esoteric/Teac and of course the Bryston) would be it. I can imagine there are instances where some might prefer it over the PS Audio - which imho still sounds better and from my perspective, a great design that lends itself to constant (free) software upgrades as PS Audio has demonstrated since 2014.

That said, I think the current architecture is due for a refresh. And the new Obsidian DAC is that answer. I understand the DirectStream will get a hardware upgrade to bring the hardware up to spec with the Obsidian. (Similar to how the PerfectWave got an upgrade to MkII and then the DirectStream).

I’ve been pitting the PS Audio DirectStream against the Chord DAVE for the last 3 years and I reckon in a like-for-like source, the DAVE is still a more engaging and detailed sound. Even with the latest Snowmass (the buggy one that sounds better to me IMHO).

But the Bridge II really elevates the performance that I feel reduces that stark difference I heard with different sources. Ditto with the Memory Tramsport.

I’m looking forward to getting the hardware upgrade.

[SAM992]

Ok folks, the new guy here... Bought this DAC to go with my McIntosh MA9000 and MCT500 and wanted to see if anyone has any regrets on their $6-7K investment? I am a huge fan of DSD / SACD and so the idea of everything being DSD had me sold before I heard it in person! ... will I be happy? And is it true this thing needs a LONG burn in?