PS Audio DirectStream DAC MK2

PS Audio DirectStream DAC MK2

If you're looking for a DAC that will take your digital audio listening experience to the next level, then the PS Audio DirectStream DAC MK2 is the perfect choice. It utilizes advanced technology to upsample PCM and DSD to twenty times the DSD rate, resulting in a sound that is far superior to other DACs at its price point. The DirectStream MK2 also features an all-new attenuator architecture which allows it to be used as a preamplifier, and its dual FPGA processing provides unparalleled clarity and resolution. Not only that, but its upgradable software based on FPGA code allows you to easily download free updates as they are released. With these features, the PS Audio DirectStream DAC MK2 is sure to take your digital music enjoyment to greater heights.

Here is what PS Audio say about the DirectStream DAC MK2

There has never been a better sounding DAC at anywhere close to the price of DirectStream MK2. The MK2 utilises discrete, galvanically isolated, perfection-based conversion that uncovers all the missing information hiding in your digital audio media. CDs, streaming audio, high-resolution PCM or DSD based media are expertly upsampled in the DirectStream MK2 to twenty times DSD rate and output as pure analog directly into your amplifier or preamplifier. DirectStream MK2 converts every one of its galvanically isolated input signals, both PCM and DSD, to a high sample rate 50 bit version which is further converted to pure DSD for its final conversion to pure analog. It handles all PCM sources up to 705.6 kHz, and DSD up to 256.

What makes the DirectStream DAC MK2 unique is its utilisation of user-upgradeable software based on FPGA code. Use of twin FPGAs rather than an off-the-shelf DAC chip provides immense processing power, resulting in a complete lack of digital glare, and allows the owner to download our free operating system updates as they are released. With every free upgrade to the operating system, new levels of resolution and audio magic will enrich and make new this remarkable D to A converter. the MK2 also features an all-new attenuator architecture for better system level matching with six levels of attenuation that are automatically selected based on the requested volume level allowing DirectStream MK2 to be used as a preamplifier, directly feeding a power amp.

Features

• 100% DSD Based D-A Converter
• Upgradable via software releases
• Volume, balance, control built in
• Upsamples PCM and DSD to 20x DSD rate
• DXD support
• Passive transformer couple output
• Dual FPGA processing
• Handwritten filters, processing and upsamplers
• 7 x Digital Inputs
• Galvanically isolated inputs and outputs
• Fully balanced from input to output
• Store and install up to 10 firmware mountaintops
• Improves imaging and soundstage
• Immune to outside jitter problems
• Increased digital headroom
• Uncovers details usually masked by PCM processors

Galvanic Isolation

Thanks to a radical new technology the DirectStream MK2 DAC eliminates incoming noise and upsetting jitter by galvanically isolating every input, output, ground, and power source of this remarkable new DAC. Once delivered through these clean and noise free inputs the MK2 converts any digital input format from CDs, servers, computers, and streamers, into a pure DSD format and outputs perfect analog directly to your power amplifier or preamplifier. Whatever the format, sample rate, or the medium, the DirectStream MK2 provides a pure output that fulfills the promise of high-resolution analog performance from digital sources. DirectStream MK2 is the work of PS Audio's digital audio guru, Ted Smith. Unlike conventional DACs that rely upon off-the-shelf DAC chips, the DirectStream MK2 is hand-written onto a pair of FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Array). This allows far more precise and accurate processing of the digital signal, resulting in significantly better sound quality and upgradeability in the field. Periodically, Ted Smith's continual research into digital audio reproduction nets another breakthrough in performance. DirectStream MK2 DAC owners are given it free in the form of a downloadable upgrade. In this way, DirectStream MK2 owners can be assured that their unit will continue to improve over time.

DSD to Analog

Converting the ones and zeros of digital audio into music we cannot distinguish between live or recorded is an art. Most of today’s sophisticated DACs are IC based instruments using off-the-shelf-chips that rely upon Multi-bit Sigma-Delta functions to process the incoming digital audio. While these are relatively simple to design and produce, they rarely give the best sonic results. DirectStream MK2 takes a different approach by first converting all galvanically isolated digital audio signals into a purer form of digital audio known as DSD. DSD is a far more analog-like encoding and decoding process than the classic CD based PCM. In fact, most modern A/D converters used to make recordings are DSD based already. The DirectStream MK2 takes both PCM and DSD, upsamples the data and converts to single-bit DSD and then outputs pure music regardless of input format for the data. The results of this design can be heard in increased musical information presented to the listener at every opportunity. When you listen to the DirectStream MK2 you never are accosted by added bright, hard glare in the music as happens with many active designs. Instead, clean, pure musical magic flows from the DirectStream MK2 directly to your preamplifier or power amplifier.

Output and Volume

Most modern DACs use some form of active tube or solid state output stage to amplify, filter and drive the DAC's output. The DirectStream MK2 takes a different approach: passive. In one of the simplest, elegant and musically correct executions of an output stage, high-speed class A video amplifiers are used as the final switch feeding a high-performance passive audio output transformer. The upgraded output transformer in the MK2 is specially designed to act as both the final galvanic isolation between the DAC and the outside world as well as the primary low pass filter required to present a perfect, low distortion, low noise output signal that is fed directly into the DirectStream MK2's zero-loss volume control. Designer Smith perfected a 100% bit-perfect volume and balance control that’s built into DirectStream MK2, enabling users to control the output level when feeding directly into a power amplifier or preamplifier. The ability to eliminate the preamplifier in the system without any resolution loss is a major benefit to DirectStream MK2's outstanding musical performance. Imagine going to a recording studio and listening to a master tape of any recording made. This is the experience the DirectStream MK2 provides its owners who enjoy a renewed sense of enjoyment and discovery when listening to everything in their library: CD’s, downloads, DSD.

Specification

• Unit Weight: 21 lbs (9.53kg)
• Unit Dimensions: 14" x 17" x 4" (36cm x 43cm x 10cm)
• Input Power: Model Specific 100VAC, 120VAC or 230VAC 50 or 60Hz
• Power Consumption: 25W
• Digital Audio inputs: I2S (2), Coax, XLR Balanced (2), Optical, USB
• Sample Rates:
  • Optical (TOSLink): PCM 16 and 24 bits at 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz and 96kHz
  • S/PDIF (Coax and XLR): PCM 16 and 24 bits at 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz and 192kHz
  • DoP64 Dual XLR: PCM 16 and 24 bits at 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz and 352.8kHz
  • DoP64 and DoP128 I2S: PCM 16 and 24 bits at 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 352.8kHz, and 705.6
  • DoP64, DoP128, DoP256, DSD64, DSD128, and DSD256 USB: PCM 16 and 24 bits at 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 352.8kHz, and 705.6, DoP64, DoP128, DoP256, DSD64, DSD128, and DSD256
• Analog Audio output connector: RCA single ended or balanced, XLR balanced
• Output level high, maximum:
  • 4 VRMS Balanced
  • 2 VRMS Single Ended
• Output Impedance: <100Ω/<200Ω
• Frequency Response: 20-20KHz +/- 0.25dB
• THD+N @ 1KHz (full scale): <0.1%
• Output Stage: Passive audio transformer, fed by high current, high speed analog amps producing double rate DSD
• Format: PCM or DSD
• Sample rate (PCM): 44.1kHz, 48.0kHz, 88.2kHz, 96.0kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 352.8kHz; 705.6kHz
• Word length (PCM): 16b, 18b, 20b, 24b
• Data rate (DSD): Standard (2.8MHz) or Double (5.6MHz) DoP as well as raw DSD on I2S and USB inputs
• Input jitter reduction: effectively 100%, residual immeasurable. No input PLLs, FLLs.
• Input Processing: 225.792MHz
• Signal Pocessing: 56.448MHz
• Synchronous Upsampling, all inputs: 56.448MHz for 48k, 96k or 192k; 11.2896MHz for all others
• Digital Processing S/N ratio: Upsampling > 210dB, volume control and Sigma Delta Modulator: > 330dB
• Digital Volume Control: Zero loss of precision
• Analog Conversion method: low pass filter DSD256 (quad rate DSD: single bit DSD at 11.2896MHz)
• I2S Digital Input Connector: HDMI
• I2S Digital Input Format: PCM or DSD. DoP on all inputs as well as raw DSD on I2S inputs
• USB Digital Input Connector: USB - B Type
• USB Digital Input Format: PCM, DoP v1.1 (DSD over PCM), or Native DSD
• Transfer mode: Asynchronous

About PS Audio

PS Audio is a renowned high-fidelity audio components and equipment provider catering to audiophiles and the sound recording industry. With a rich history dating back to 1973, PS Audio has been at the forefront of audio innovation, delivering exceptional products that elevate the listening experience to new heights. Founded by audio designers Paul McGowan and Stan Warren, PS Audio shipped its first products in 1974. The company's name was derived from the initials of its visionary founders, reflecting their commitment to crafting audio equipment that pushes the boundaries of sonic performance. From the very beginning, PS Audio has been dedicated to delivering uncompromising sound quality and engineering excellence.

PS Audio's product lineup encompasses a wide range of audio components designed to meet the needs of discerning audiophiles. From preamplifiers to mains regenerators, DACs to streamers, PS Audio offers a comprehensive selection of equipment that captures the essence of every musical detail.

PS Audio's unwavering dedication to excellence has earned the company numerous accolades and awards worldwide. From Editors' Choice awards by prestigious publications like Stereophile and The Absolute Sound magazines to consistently earning spots on Stereophile's Recommended Component lists, PS Audio has cemented its reputation as a leader in the audio industry. Experience the power of PS Audio's cutting-edge audio components and elevate your listening experience to new heights. Explore their range of preamplifiers, mains regenerators, DACs, amplifiers, power cables, and power conditioners, and unlock the true potential of your audio system. With PS Audio, immerse yourself in the captivating world of high-fidelity sound reproduction.