I can only agree. My PC can play 16bit/44.1kHz files at DSD512, but stutters with HiRes files, so I play everything at DSD256. To my ears, the difference between DSD256 and DSD512 is quite small. I would not invest in a new PC just for that (YMMV).

2 DACs in one box - PCM section and DSD. I use a T+A DAC 200 and it does both very well, but the DSD is extra special. Only downside is the cost - these DACs tend to be pricey as they pack a lot into the box.

Rich pickings there. Fantastic decade for music.

Completely agree. The PCM section is very good, but the DSD is another level. A review that doesn't touch the DSD option is missing the point.

Brief post to share how wonderfully good I am finding the DAC 200 with DSD via Roon and HQP via the Bliss KTE and a bunch of nice headphones. Currently switching between the ZMF Caldera and HEKv2 - both are stunning. I have posted previously about enjoying the PCM side of the DAC 200, and it is...

+1 for Qobuz. I have an annual subscription and love it.

MQA always smelled scammy to me (and many others). Whatever the merits, the marketplace has spoken and MQA is dying.

Desktop version 5.4.1 is out today.

Version 5.4.0 has been released today.

My initial preference was DSD256/512. Only after putting a lot of hours on the PCM section did it really get competitive to my ears. It's great to have both DAC sections to choose from, depending on genre / mood / personal preference. Both are excellent.

Suggest giving PCM mode on the T+A a solid try as well. PCM on the T+A can be very musical and appealing, particularly for vocal-centric genres. DSD is more technical and detailed. Your personal preferences might swing between the two. Just be aware that the PCM section requires a LOT of hours...

Done. Thank you for the tip 👍

Throwing my PCM HQ Player settings out there - if anyone has any suggestions to share with HQP PCM settings I would be most appreciative. I have played about with a bunch of different filter settings and keep coming back to the settings below. I am using the "BEZ 2" OVS setting on the DAC with...

I love both. My preference tends to go with genre - anything vocal-centric and PCM is usually my preference. For classical / instrumental / jazz I mostly use DSD. Having both options in one box is fantastic. Totally agree that DSD should not be overshadowing PCM. I would say "different" rather...

PCM with the BEZ2 filter for the win 😊