PS Audio Direct Stream MK2 DAC


While researching the PS Audio Direct Stream MK2 DAC on the PSA Forum, I came across this:

"Regarding “hum,” Ted said: “ You had the opportunity to return your device if it was wasn’t acceptable. I don’t know how one could claim to have been screwed…….”

Not only that, this “hum” was a known feature, as it was discussed early and often in the beta thread. Paul even went so far as to claim every component PSA has ever produced (or at least, every component on his shelf) has this hum."

Further, Ted himself says:

"The hum is coming from the piezoelectric response from a few critical capacitors in the power supply. The device was designed with a component that wouldn’t cause this problem, but supply chain problems forced us to design in a slightly older version of the part which caused the hum. Unfortunately, the new and old parts aren’t footprint compatible, so we’re stuck with the older version for a while even when the newer parts become available again."

Ted is Ted Smith, the" Chief Digital Dude" at PS Audio.

Question to all PSA DS MK2 DAC owners, do you hear a hum?

All in all, do you think it would be better to wait for a while until the problem sorts itself out - OR - is it "much ado about nothing" and I should just go ahead and get the PSA DAC?

I am leaning towards waiting .... But I am interested to hear your views too.

 

 

 

128x128dcpillai

Showing 2 responses by oczed

I also don't understand why there could be any confusion on the lack of streaming capability in the Mk2.  PS Audio's marketing material never mentioned anything about streaming functionality w/the Mk2.  And for the "well, the Mk1 had the bridge" argument, the Mk1 bridge was a separate add-on when purchasing the Mk1.  It wasn't even included in the base product. 

@acmaier3 - Well, because you asked about the sufficiency of my education in regards to my reading comprehension and logic… Yes, I have a law degree from a top 5 law school and am admitted to two state bar associations. I think my reading comprehension and logic are sufficient to get by in life.

Not sure what to tell you here… no one else was confused about the product. The unit never shipped with a network streaming card.  I never saw anything from PS Audio claiming as such and I’ve been following the development and release of the MK2 over the last couple years.  

Best of luck to you on your journey. 👍