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SACD Players: Models with DSD Processor (used and new) (not dsd converted to pcm)

Which SACD Players (used or new) have DSD Processors? (not dsd converted to pcm)

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excerpts found

The SACD disc looks like a CD but is a ’container’ that holds the DSD audio which is one bit and 2.8 million parts per second. This compares to a CD which is a ’container’ that holds PCM audio which is 44,100 samples per second and 16 bits.

Just be aware that most universal DVD/Blu-ray players convert the DSD from a SACD to PCM because their DACS are basically working with this format for all the other discs that they play (CD, DVD and Blu-ray are all only PCM based audio). There are exceptions such as the OPPO players - but double check the spec’.

I know a lot of people are wary about DSD to PCM conversion, but as big a fan of DSD as I am, I’m beginning to think that the benefits come from doing the digital <=> analogue conversions with DSD. Once in the digital domain, I don’t think DSD <=> PCM conversion is nearly so significant.

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elliottbnewcombjr
fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,510 posts
 

Or rip the dsf's with a $30 Sony and play them with a DSD DAC.

elliottbnewcombjr OP
5,249 posts
 

It's about playing existing SACD discs directly into the system, getting the DSD off the sacd and out the player's rca's without converting to PCM's limitation within the player.

anwar
119 posts
 

There are 3 Marantz SACD player models (SA-10 at the top) which use Marantz Musical Mastering (MMM).  No D/A chip inside these players.  All signals up-sampled to DSD 4x using FPGA and converted directly to analog with filters.  These players are great with SACD discs and also DSD digital albums (can play using USB drive input behind).  Pick one within your budget.

elliottbnewcombjr OP
5,249 posts
 

anwar,

thanks, please tell me the other specific model #s. Also, do you know if they have single or dual processors?

I am looking at lightly used ones, but it’s so hard to get clarity. Found a nearly new Marantz DV8400, Is that one SACD DSD out without conversion to PCM?

Elliott

anwar
119 posts
 

Elliot,

Marantz USA website lists 3 models, but elsewhere there are 4 SACD players using MMM, with SA-12SE being the latest model:

  • Marantz SA-10 (with balanced XLR output)
  • Marantz SA-KI Ruby
  • Marantz SA-12SE
  • Marantz SACD 30n
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