downloading music versus cd `s quality

Noble100, I encourage you to look into software such as HQPlayer, which up samples radically and a DAC which can handle it, i.e. double DSD, etc.

The difference in experience is not subtle, but rather profound. You will not be disappointed! The standard in terms of digital quality playback has moved far afield, from 24/384 to 32/5.6MHz or similar.

I was elated that last night I was able to eek out a bit more from the HQPlayer's settings. The computer wiz who set up the software got it to 5.6MHz, but I found out that the EE DAC Supreme also operates at 6.14MHz, and even this seemingly small jump was efficacious.

There are profound benefits to be had in seeking such software/DAC combos. No hi-res files necessary. That's not to say true hi-res files wouldn't sound even better, but this is fabulous bang for the buck sound.

Hi Douglas,

Thanks for the heads-up on HQPlayer. My DAC can handle DSD but I'm not sure it can handle double DSD. I'll check it out.

Thanks,
Tim

Noble100, even if your current DAC can handle only DSD it will be worth it. Any upgrade in the future to a DAC which does multiple DSD will be very enjoyed.

I hope that Eastern Electric will soon offer an upgraded version to handle quad and octa DSD capable DAC. I believe the ifi Micro DSD is capable of octa. Time to put that back in the rig and see what happens. Though one cannot roll discrete opamps, the capacity to do quad or octa DSD would be stunning, I imagine. Then, I'd have to work with cords to tune the sound...

Hi Douglas,

I was just reading about a PS Audio DAC that also up converts CDs to DSD and supposedly dramatically improves the sound of ripped CDs. This is very interesting and appealing to me. However, I don't know if it's worth thousands of dollars to me right now.

I currently use an Oppo 105 as a DAC and Digital audio player (in combination with a NAS and laptop running JRiver Media Center) and looking into whether HQ Player is compatible with my setup and equipment.

I'm always open to possible improvements.

Thanks,
Tim

I own the Sony HAPZ1ES and it's sublime. Check out the specs & reviews. Game changer, history will show imo.