PS AUDIO DIRECTSTREAM DAC MKII

The PS Audio DirectStream MK2 DAC represents one of the most advanced achievements in digital-to-analog conversion, the result of a design that completely abandons traditional IC chips in favor of a hand-written solution on FPGAs, developed by designer Ted Smith. Unlike most DACs on the market, which rely on standard architectures and conventional digital processing, the DirectStream MK2 operates in a fully discrete and galvanically isolated manner across every input, output, power supply, and ground signal, effectively eliminating noise and jitter at the source. Every incoming digital signal—whether PCM or DSD—is transformed into a high-sample-rate, 50-bit version and then further converted into a pure DSD stream, which feeds the analog output directly.

The resulting musical reproduction is strikingly natural and fluid, free from digital harshness, with extended dynamics and a level of detail that enhances every sonic nuance. One of the most elegant and functional features of the design is the use of high-performance passive audio transformers as the final output filter and galvanic isolation stage, allowing the DirectStream MK2 to connect directly to a power amplifier or preamplifier—also thanks to a built-in volume control that preserves full resolution.

A further leap in quality is delivered by the “Blue Sky” software, a free update available to all DirectStream MK2 owners that redefines the potential of FPGA processing. With 81-bit multiplication and even longer, more precise upsampling filters featuring custom-calculated coefficients, Blue Sky delivers a deeper soundstage, blacker background, and stunning clarity. Every detail and hidden texture in the music is revealed with unprecedented vividness, bringing the listening experience to a new level of emotional depth and engagement.

Capable of handling PCM signals up to 705.6 kHz and DSD up to 256, the DirectStream MK2 is future-proof thanks to free operating system updates that keep the DAC aligned with the latest breakthroughs in digital audio processing. The result is a device capable of delivering musical performance that comes impressively close to the experience of listening to an original analog master tape—rediscovering familiar tracks with newfound depth and detail. It’s a machine designed for those who truly know the sound of real instruments and want to finally hear what’s been hidden in their discs, files, or digital streams.

Technical specifications:

• High-resolution digital-to-analog conversion unit
• 7 digital inputs; including asynchronous USB (24/192) and proprietary I2S input via HDMI (separate clock and data transmission up to 32/192)
• Built-in Digital Lens for jitter reduction
• 5 selectable digital filters
• Native playback or manual upsampling/downsampling modes
• Color touchscreen controls
• Optional Bridge card slot for network connectivity; supports WAV, AIFF, ALAC, FLAC, WMA, MP3
• Dimensions: 100 mm (h) x 435 mm (w) x 360 mm (d)
• Weight: 9.53 kg