DirectStream Sr

About the DirectStream Sr

The PS Audio DirectStream Sr DAC is a flagship digital-to-analog converter designed by Ted Smith and manufactured by PS Audio. It employs a custom FPGA (field-programmable gate array) core processor chip that converts all incoming PCM and DSD signals to a high-rate DSD format (up to 20 times the standard DSD rate) before analog conversion. The DAC uses a unique passive low-pass filter with an output transformer to convert the digital signal to analog, which helps reduce noise and jitter to vanishingly low levels, resulting in superb image focus and clarity in sound reproduction. It supports multiple digital inputs including two I2S (HDMI), coaxial, AES/EBU, TOSLINK optical, asynchronous USB, and an optional network bridge for streaming. The unit features a high-accuracy master clock placed close to the analog output transformer to minimize jitter. It has built-in resolution-perfect volume and balance controls, and is fully balanced from input to output. The DirectStream Sr DAC is a physically large and robust unit, measuring 17" x 14" x 4" and weighing 22 pounds, designed with careful component layout to minimize interference. Firmware upgrades are provided free of charge via internet updates, enhancing performance over time. The DAC supports PCM up to 24-bit/352.8kHz and DSD64/128 formats, with asynchronous USB input and galvanic isolation on all inputs and outputs to reduce noise.