sajunky
Headphoneus Supremus
It is called replay gain. You can scan your files and store this information in your playlist or in the FLAC metadata area. Data is unaffected only headers are updated. If replay gain is activated in your player, it adjusts playback volume automatically to achieve the same acoustic pressure for all tracks. Great option when playing random tracks.Another thing that I've noticed with Server: a huge difference in volume levels between all my recordings: so far I only use WLS with files that are either rips from my CDs or original FLACs or DSD/DXD files from HDTracks, NativeDSD etc. One can not just setup single volume level and listen. Guess Roon has some setting to deal with that but I need to test it how it would impact SQ.
DSD play at a lower volume. When converting to PCM there is an option to boost volume. 3dB boost is relatively safe, higher settings can create clipping. It is better to adjust master volume instead to achieve a total 6dB boost.
And yes, PCM when converted to DSD sounds more dry, sterile. PCM playback is more dynamic, preserving texture and involving. If your amplifier is using opamps, you may prefer DSD though. My fedback is based on using non-feedback discrete amplifier.