Modding the PS Audio Directstream DAC MK1 and MK2

I don't understand how this thread has become a pissing contest !

I read the modifying a Direct Stream DAC Mk1 thread on the PS Audio forums several times , all 5000 + pages . There were a few people who obviously had the technical ability to offer suggestions for modifications to the DAC . The designer , Ted Smith included . Some did the mods themselves , others opted to ask the likes of jkrichards would he be prepared to do the mods for them . For me being in Australia meant that sending the DAC to the USA wasn't an option . So I purchased the parts  from  jkrichards and had them installed locally . APS transformers and vcom mod capacitors . I could have purchased the MK2 DAC but at $14000 AU it better be a hell of a lot better than the Mk 1 . So my starting point was to upgrade the MK1 . Best choice I could have made . I finally listen to the music and not my system . The comments about increased , cleaner Bass and mid range are true .The sibilance that I heard on some tracks is gone . And yes I did demo the MK 2 .

I couldn`t  be happier with my choice .  So why am I telling you all this ?

I thought the comments "It’s because you are a good seller." are unfair to jkr .Read the forum people asked jkr .  

If those upgrade options weren't offered , then I would not have had the opportunity to choose to make the changes to my MK 1 .

I for one felt that there was that much enthusiasm for the mods of the Mk1 on the PS Audio forums that there was a push against it as it was taking sales away from the MK 2 .

Quote:

I for one felt that there was that much enthusiasm for the mods of the Mk1 on the PS Audio forums that there was a push against it as it was taking sales away from the MK 2

So true. It used to be a fun place to hang out and help others. Any positive reviews seem to get deleted or moved to a private area.  Not much activity there anymore, Sad.

I feel the reason they are having a hard time selling the MK2 is because of all the issues with it, not because of people keeping the MK1 and modding them. These owners don’t feel it’s worth the upgrade price especially with all the issues and the lousy user interface. Most everyone likes the MK1 touch screen, reliability and great sound the MK1 is known for. Why pay so much more when you can have the same sound with the modded MK1.

My $.02

I have both the modded MK1 and a MK2 with Nickel transformers.

I can honestly say that I feel the MK1 sounds better than the stock MK2.  With the nickel transformers installed in the MK2, I feel it is just slightly better sounding however, I prefer the touch screen over the new interface in the MK2 and also not dealing with the issues the MK2 has currently.  The firmware updates have yet to correct these issues as well as supporting all the features promised.  Many features still do not work or work correctly. 

The MK2 USB input is better sounding than the MK1 however I just use the i2s input and install a shorting plug in the USB port.  Also, the USB input on the MK2 has some issues with some streamers that cause a loud noise when switching from DSD to PCM.

I managed to get the 8139 opamps working with the stock power supply. I just had to beef up and modify the up stream regulators / filters. I now have a schematic of the analog board.
Sound wise… Sweet.  We feel this MK1 is now better sounding than the modded MK2 by quite a bit.  Worth the effort for sure.

We will be offering this upgrade before the end of the month.