PS AUDIO DIRECTSTREAM JR

Ex-demo from distributor. Supplied with original packaging and manual.

The PS Audio DirectStream Junior (DSJ) was created as a high-performance digital-to-analog converter for those seeking top-tier sound quality at a more accessible price than the acclaimed DirectStream. At its core lies the same architecture: a fully FPGA-based design—specifically the Spartan 6—hand-programmed by designer Ted Smith. This approach avoids traditional off-the-shelf DAC chips entirely. Instead, the DSJ converts every digital signal, regardless of origin or format, into pure DSD through a 10x DSD upconversion process, culminating in a final output at DSD128 via a fully balanced analog stage.

The resulting sound is strikingly analog, with a level of transparency and naturalness that makes it nearly indistinguishable from high-end analog sources. Whether you're listening to a basic MP3, a high-resolution FLAC, or a native DSD file, the DSJ maintains consistent tonal coherence and refinement, revealing a level of clarity that strips away the harshness often associated with conventional digital playback. It eliminates that typical “coldness” often found in compressed files or early digital CDs, delivering instead a wide, immersive, and detail-rich listening experience.

One of the DSJ’s most appreciated features is the built-in Bridge II Ethernet module, allowing seamless connection to your home network for streaming music from TIDAL, local libraries, and full compatibility with Roon. Switching between files—even those with different resolutions or formats—is instantaneous and fluid, without any dropouts or noticeable delays. This is where the DSJ truly shines: in its ability to handle all sources with equal care, offering impressive sonic results even with content that wouldn’t typically justify such quality.

The DSJ also functions as a fully capable digital preamplifier, featuring RCA and XLR outputs for direct connection to a stereo power amp. Volume control is integrated, precise, and lossless, with a tactile feedback knob replacing the touchscreen found on the flagship model. The chassis design is streamlined yet still elegant and solidly built, with a refined industrial aesthetic.

One of the DSJ’s strongest assets is its upgradable firmware, with free updates provided by PS Audio. This ensures the DAC remains at the cutting edge—not just in terms of format compatibility, such as Roon integration—but also in sound quality improvements brought about by ongoing FPGA code optimizations. In a constantly evolving digital landscape, this makes the DSJ a future-proof investment.

Technical Specifications

• Type: DSD DAC with software-upgradable FPGA
• Digital Inputs: AES/XLR balanced, COAX, TOSLINK, USB, I2S, Ethernet
• Sampling Rates: I2S, SPDIF, USB: 44.1 kHz to 352.8 kHz (16/24-bit), DSD64, DSD128; TOSLINK: 44.1 kHz to 96 kHz (16/24-bit)
• Low-Level Output: 1.41 Vrms (+5 dBV) / 3.15
• Maximum Output: 2.81 Vrms (+8 dBV) / 5.3 Vrms (+12 dBV)
• Output Impedance: 100 Ohm (RCA) / 200 Ohm (XLR)
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz ±0.25 dB
• Output Stage: High-speed, high-current analog amplifiers producing double-rate DSD
• Formats Supported: PCM and DSD
• Word Length: 16, 18, 20, 24 bits
• Data Rates: Standard (2.8 MHz) or Double (5.6 MHz) DoP on all inputs; native DSD on I2S
• Jitter Rejection: 100% effective; no measurable residual jitter; no PLL or FLL on inputs
• Input Processing Speed: 170 MHz
• Signal Processing Speed: 50 MHz
• Synchronous Upsampling: 28.22 MHz
• Digital SNR: >146 dB
• Digital Volume Control: Lossless
• Analog Conversion Method: Delta Sigma (DSD), single-bit, double-rate
• I2S Digital Input Connector: HDMI
• I2S Format: PCM or DSD; DoP on all inputs, native DSD via I2S
• USB Digital Input Connector: USB Type B
• USB Format: PCM or DoP v1.1 (DSD over PCM)
• USB Transfer Mode: Asynchronous
• Analog Outputs: 2x RCA (unbalanced) / 2x XLR (balanced)
• Controls: Single multifunction button with menu; rotary dial for volume/menu navigation
• Weight: 8.1 kg (17.8 lbs)
• Dimensions: 36 cm × 43 cm × 6.98 cm (14.2” × 16.9” × 2.75”)