PS AUDIO DIRECTSTREAM MK I MEDIAPLAYER

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

The DirectStream is a digital-to-analog converter that transforms every input signal, whether PCM or DSD, into a single-bit DSD signal with a sampling rate 20 times higher than standard DSD. This is achieved through the use of a programmable FPGA instead of a traditional DAC chip, giving the device immense processing power and completely eliminating any digital “glare” or harshness in the sound. DirectStream also allows for operating system updates to be downloaded, ensuring continuous improvements over time. It is the heart of a reference-quality digital audio system, capable of handling all PCM sources up to 352.8 kHz and DSD64 and DSD128 via USB and I2S, while DSD256 is supported via I2S with the Sunlight OS update. Thanks to a zero-loss digital volume control, it can be used as a preamplifier, feeding a power amplifier directly. Adding the Network Bridge enables streaming from services like Qobuz, Tidal, and Spotify, and the device is Roon compatible.

Designed by Ted Smith, the DirectStream differs from traditional DACs that rely on standard multi-bit Sigma-Delta chips. Instead, it converts all digital signals into a much purer and more analog-like form called DSD, which already underlies most modern recordings. This approach delivers a more natural sound rich in musical information, free from the aggressiveness and hardness often found in other converters. Listening to the DirectStream is a clear and immersive experience where music flows naturally and precisely, without digital distortion or interference.

Technically, the audio output avoids conventional active valve or solid-state stages and instead uses a refined, musically correct passive solution: high-speed Class A video amplifiers drive a high-performance audio transformer that provides galvanic isolation and acts as a low-pass filter, ensuring a clean, low-noise, and low-distortion output signal. This signal is then managed by a digital volume and balance control that preserves the original quality without any loss of detail or dynamics, allowing the elimination of a traditional preamplifier from the system. This feature makes the DirectStream unique in its ability to deliver a listening experience comparable to hearing an original studio master tape.

Its cutting-edge technology and hand-crafted filters, combined with a fully balanced digital architecture immune to external jitter issues, reveal musical details often masked by conventional PCM processing, offering a wider soundstage and improved spatial definition. With seven digital inputs, DXD support, and the option to integrate the Bridge II for MQA and Tidal, the DirectStream is a versatile and upgradable device featuring a color touchscreen interface for intuitive control. It is the ideal choice for those who want to hear every nuance of their recordings with maximum fidelity and musicality, without technological or sonic compromises.

Technical specifications:

• Digital audio inputs: I2S (2), Coaxial, Balanced XLR, TOSLINK, USB, Network Bridge slot
• Sampling rates: I2S and USB from 44.1kHz to 352.8kHz; 16-bit, 24-bit, DSD64, DSD128 (I2S DSD256 with Sunlight update)
• TOSLINK: 44.1kHz to 96kHz; 16-bit, 24-bit
• XLR (AES/EBU) and S/PDIF (coaxial): 44.1kHz to 192kHz; 16-bit, 24-bit, DSD64
• Analog audio output: RCA/XLR unbalanced/balanced connectors (x2)
• Low output level: 0.282 VRMS balanced; 0.141 VRMS unbalanced
• Maximum high output level: 2.818 VRMS balanced; 1.414 VRMS unbalanced
• Output impedance: 100Ω/200Ω
• Frequency response: 20Hz–20kHz ±0.25dB
• THD+N at 1kHz (full scale): <0.03%
• Output stage: passive audio transformer driven by high-current, high-speed analog amplifiers producing double-rate DSD
• Data handling: PCM or DSD format
• PCM sampling rates: 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 352.8kHz
• PCM word lengths: 16, 18, 20, 24 bits
• DSD data rates: Standard (2.8MHz) or double (5.6MHz) DoP; raw DSD on I2S and USB inputs
• Input jitter reduction: practically 100%, residual immeasurable; no PLLs or FLLs on input
• Input processing: 170MHz
• Signal processing: 50MHz
• Synchronous upsampling on all inputs: 28.224MHz
• Digital processing S/N ratio: >146 dB
• Digital volume control: zero loss of precision
• Analog conversion method: Delta Sigma (DSD) single-bit double rate
• I2S digital input: HDMI connector; PCM or DSD format, DoP on all inputs, raw DSD on I2S
• USB digital input: USB “B” type connector; PCM or DoP v1.1 (DSD over PCM); asynchronous transfer mode
• Unit weight: 9.97 kg
• Unit dimensions: 36 cm x 43 cm x 10 cm (W x D x H)