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WASAPI vs. ASIO on Windows10?

Yesterday I took advantage of a month's trial of Qobuz "Studio" (Hi-Rez) service, downloading and installing the Qobuz app on my Windows10 Pro machine, outputting to my DAC via USB.  In configuring the DAC output in Qobuz, they offer ASIO and WASAPI.  I chose WASAPI in "Exclusive Mode".  To be honest, I don't hear any difference between WASAPI and ASIO, but from what I read it sounds like the option I chose is best for sending an un-altered stream to my DAC.

I am by no means an expert on this sort of stuff.  Comments from those who know more would be appreciated.
ejr1953
4 responses Add your response
ejr1953 OP
914 posts
 
Thanks for all the great info!
timlub
2,039 posts
 
I typically use ASIO or Kernel Streaming.  Both work well and I don't hear a difference In tonal quality although sometimes I believe there is a slight improvement in soundstage on KS.  The differences would be minor and quite frankly, I'm not sure that it isn't my head wanting to hear a difference.   I've heard of stability issues with both of these, but for me, They both work. 
anwar
119 posts
 
When playing DSD, WASAPI only supports DoP (DSD over PCM) whereas ASIO supports native DSD, allowing higher bitrates (DSD 2x, 4x).
danoroo
239 posts
 
I agree with you as I hear no difference between the two.  I think both drivers are designed to bypass the PC's internal audio circuitry and let the audio software communicate directly with the connected external audio device.  What makes it an easy choice for me is that WASAPI is stable ASIO is not.
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