Modding the PS Audio Directstream DAC MK1 and MK2

Hi Jeff, one of the reasons I'm considering your transformer upgrade for the MKI has to do with connecting the DAC directly to my Pass amp. I seem to recall you saying that your transformer upgrade increases the output voltage, which helps when you connect the DAC directly to a power amp. I haven't noticed anyone talking about this lately so can you please comment on this? 

I don’t recall us making them exact statements. The Custom nickel transformers do in fact increase the output level by 6dB because they are and were designed as a 1:2 transformer instead of the original 1:1 transformer that are installed in the MK1. We did state that The Custom nickel transformers have a much lower output impedance than the MK2 Edcor XS4400 transformers which places the secondary windings in a series configuration in order to achieve a 1:2 output which creates a very high output impedance. This was kind of a cheat as the Edcor XS4400 was not designed to do so. The Custom nickel transformers are designed from the ground up specifically for each model, The MK1 or the Mk2.

The lower impedance is a plus as it in theory should have a lower noise floor going directly into a power amp. We never tested this as we recommend going through a pre-amp.

Thanks Jeff. My takeaway from your response is that you recommend using a pre-amp. I'm good with that.

I’m looking to get these upgrades for my MK1 and have tried getting in touch here via private message and the contact form on the website. No luck yet.

I see today I have another transformer option. I thought I was set on the nickel but see the is now the LUNDAHL 1948Ag Pure Silver windings Transformers. How do they compare between the two?

Not sure what you’re doing wrong as no one else is having issues connecting with me using ether method you state. Have communicated with many people with no issues.  I’ll PM you now. We are backed up till November. We did add the Ag 1948. A little bright for our taste however some may like them. We also added a network isolator for streaming. We are quite surprised how much improvement it makes.