The uDAC5 is able to process DSD content, which captures the full range of frequencies from the original studio recording. DSD relies on a different means to clock decode and convert signal from raw data in to audible sound. The illustration below demonstrates the vast difference in both file size and frequency range when compared to various other formats.
High resolution files are vast. The files are required in order to retain the much greater range of frequencies and information that was retained from the original recordings.
|
Min frequency |
Max frequency |
|
Hz |
Hz |
LP |
10 |
30000 |
CD |
20 |
20000 |
SACD |
10 |
70000 |
DSD |
10 |
30000 |
All figures rounded and represent theoretical maximum resolution
The basics behind the DSD formats involve a rapid rate of sampling of data processing small samples at a high speed. The rate of sampling is 64 times greater than that of a CD sampling rate. It creates a “sound curve” that is far more accurate and is nearer to the way in which an audible note is created. In addition it is able to cover a far wider range of frequencies than that of MP3 files or CD quality disc/files.
The uDAC5 is able to process both the highest DSD sample rate and PCM highest sampling rate (DXD) of 384kHz
The final result is a far more immersive and life like performance delivered through speakers or in/on ear headphones.
Other high resolution formats
The term high resolution is generally applied to all audio formats with higher resolutions than that of a CD (44.1/16) and WAV/AIFF audio files.
Other formats that use high resolution audio:
- DVD-Audio (96/24)
- Blu ray audio (up to192/24)
- SACD discs (1Bit DSD)
- DSD (2.8)
- DSD (5.6)
- DXD (PCM 384kHz)
Audio players capable of replying DSD files
DSD recordings are not compatible with PCM audio format. DSD files require a dedicated media player which is able to interact with the host computer and play them.
For PC Users
- Signalyst HQPlayer
- Foobar2000
- JPlay
- J River Media Center
- Mediamonkey
For Mac Users
- Audirvana Plus
- Channel D Pure Music
- J River Media Center