PS Audio DirectStream DAC MK2
Description
Since its groundbreaking introduction 8 years ago, the PerfectWave DirectStream has stood alone as one of the most remarkable DACs ever built. We are excited to share with the world the next generation of this technological wonder, the PerfectWave DirectStream DAC MK2. Unlike the vast majority of high-end DACs based on off-the-shelf IC technology, DirectStream MK2 utilizes user-upgradeable software based on handwritten FPGA code. At its core, the MK2 utilizes discrete, galvanically isolated, perfection-based conversion that uncovers all the missing information hiding in your digital audio media. CDs, streaming audio, high-resolution PCM or DSD based media are expertly upsampled in the DirectStream MK2 to twenty times DSD rate and output as pure analog directly into your amplifier or preamplifier. There has never been a better sounding DAC at anywhere close to the price of DirectStream MK2. The ground breaking DirectStream DAC was the first choice of thousands of critical listeners worldwide, and now with the introduction of the MK2, that legacy will continue.
Design
Application
Galvanic Isolation
DSD to analog
Converting the ones and zeros of digital audio into music we cannot distinguish between live or recorded is an art. Most of today’s sophisticated DACs are IC based instruments using off-the-shelf-chips that rely upon Multi-bit Sigma-Delta functions to process the incoming digital audio. While these are relatively simple to design and produce, they rarely give the best sonic results. DirectStream MK2 takes a different approach by first converting all galvanically isolated digital audio signals into a purer form of digital audio known as DSD. DSD is a far more analog-like encoding and decoding process than the classic CD based PCM. In fact, most modern A/D converters used to make recordings are DSD based already. The DirectStream MK2 takes both PCM and DSD, upsamples the data and converts to single-bit DSD and then outputs pure music regardless of input format for the data. The results of this design can be heard in increased musical information presented to the listener at every opportunity. When you listen to the DirectStream MK2 you never are accosted by added bright, hard glare in the music as happens with many active designs. Instead, clean, pure musical magic flows from the DirectStream MK2 directly to your preamplifier or power amplifier.
Output and Volume
Most modern DACs use some form of active tube or solid state output stage to amplify, filter and drive the DAC's output. The DirectStream MK2 takes a different approach: passive. In one of the simplest, elegant and musically correct executions of an output stage, high-speed class A video amplifiers are used as the final switch feeding a high-performance passive audio output transformer. The upgraded output transformer in the MK2 is specially designed to act as both the final galvanic isolation between the DAC and the outside world as well as the primary low pass filter required to present a perfect, low distortion, low noise output signal that is fed directly into the DirectStream MK2's zero-loss volume control. Designer Smith perfected a 100% bit-perfect volume and balance control that’s built into DirectStream MK2, enabling users to control the output level when feeding directly into a power amplifier or preamplifier. The ability to eliminate the preamplifier in the system without any resolution loss is a major benefit to DirectStream MK2's outstanding musical performance. Imagine going to a recording studio and listening to a master tape of any recording made. This is the experience the DirectStream MK2 provides its owners who enjoy a renewed sense of enjoyment and discovery when listening to everything in their library: CD’s, downloads, DSD.
Specifications
Physical |
|
| Unit Weight | 21 lbs [9.53 kg] |
| Unit Dimensions | 14” x 17” x 4” [ 36cm x 43cm x 10cm] |
| Shipping Weight | 30 lbs [13.6 kg] |
| Shipping Dimensions | 20.5”x 24” x 10” [52cm x 61cm x 25cm] |
Power requirements |
|
| Input Power | Model specific 100VAC, 120VAC, or 230VAC 50 or 60Hz |
| Power Consumption | 25W |
Digital audio inputs |
I2S (2), Coax, XLR Balanced (2), Optical, USB |
Sample Rates |
Optical (TOSLink): PCM 16 and 24 bits at 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz and 96kHz
S/PDIF (Coax and XLR): PCM 16 and 24 bits at 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz and 192kHz DoP64 Dual XLR: PCM 16 and 24 bits at 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz and 352.8kHz DoP64 and DoP128 I2S: PCM 16 and 24 bits at 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 352.8kHz, and 705.6 DoP64, DoP128, DoP256, DSD64, DSD128, and DSD256 USB: PCM 16 and 24 bits at 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 352.8kHz, and 705.6, DoP64, DoP128, DoP256, DSD64, DSD128, and DSD256 |
Analog Audio Output |
|
| Connector | RCA single ended or balanced, XLR balanced |
| Output level high, maximum | 4 VRMS Balanced 2 VRMS Single Ended |
| Output Impedance | <100Ω/<200Ω |
| Frequency Response | 20-20KHz +/- 0.25dB |
| THD+N @ 1KHz (full scale) | <0.1% |
| Output Stage | Passive audio transformer, fed by high current, high speed analog amps producing double rate DSD |
Data Handling |
|
| Format | PCM or DSD |
| Sample rate (PCM) | 44.1kHz, 48.0kHz, 88.2kHz, 96.0kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 352.8kHz; 705.6kHz |
| Word length (PCM) | 16b, 18b, 20b, 24b |
| Data rate (DSD) | Standard (2.8MHz) or Double (5.6MHz) DoP as well as raw DSD on I2S and USB inputs |
| Input jitter reduction | effectively 100%, residual immeasurable. No input PLLs, FLLs. |
| Input Processing | 225.792MHz |
| Signal Processing | 56.448MHz |
| Synchronous Upsampling, all inputs | 56.448MHz for 48k, 96k or 192k; 11.2896MHz for all others |
| Digital Processing S/N ratio | Upsampling > 210dB, volume control and Sigma Delta Modulator: > 330dB |
| Digital Volume Control | Zero loss of precision |
| Analog Conversion method | low pass filter DSD256 (quad rate DSD: single bit DSD at 11.2896MHz) |
I2S Digital Input |
|
| Connector | HDMI |
| Format | PCM or DSD. DoP on all inputs as well as raw DSD on I2S inputs |
USB Digital Input |
|
| Connector | USB “B” Type |
| Format | PCM, DoP v1.1 (DSD over PCM), or Native DSD |
| Transfer mode | Asynchronous |
Denon DCD-1700NE AL32 CD/SACD Player
Description
DCD-1700NE
DCD-1700NE CD/SACD player with Advanced AL32 Processing Plus
Enjoy accurate audio reproduction that’s faithful to the original recording. Thanks to technologies like Advanced AL32 Processing Plus and an ultra-precision D/A Converter, you’ll hear your favorite songs like never before. The Denon original drive mechanism with S.V.H lets you play back CDs, SACDs, and your own compilations on DVD R/RW with signal purity.
Features:
-
Extended format capability
Supports CD, Super Audio CD, and your own high-res compilations on CD or 𠊍VDR/ RW -
Pristine audio
Unique Denon technologies come together to deliver outstanding sound clarity. -
Faithful, detailed playback
Advanced AL32 data interpolation algorithms and digital filtering reveal more detail from the original recording. -
Build integrity
Built to last with thoughtfully selected components and rigorous testing.
Advanced AL32 Processing Plus
Experience audio beautifully faithful to the original sound. Advanced AL32 Processing Plus algorithms restore information that was lost during the digital recording.
Extended disc format support
Enjoy extended disc support for your high-resolution audio collection, including CD's, Super Audio CDs,𠊊s well as DSD and high-res files up to 192 kHz/24 bits recorded on DVD-R/RW and DVD+R/RW discs.
Proprietary disc drive
The Denon original disc drive is built with a high-class S.V.H (Suppress Vibration Hybrid) mechanism. All elements of the design are focused on delivering optimal accuracy.
Sound Master tuned
Carefully tuned with selected audio components and evaluated by the Denon Sound Master to meet Denon’s high standards and distinctive sound for an amazing experience.
Specifications:
| Unit (W x H x D mm) | 434 x 135 x 384 |
| Cabinet Size | 434 x 135 x 374 |
| Net weight | 9.0kg |
| Packaging Dimensions (W x H x D mm) | 543 x 250 x 515 |
| Packaging gross weight | 11.7kg |
| Power Consumption | 24W |
| at Standby | 0.1W |
| Front (Center) Panel | Aluminum |
| Function button | Aluminum |
| Open / Close button | Aluminum |
| Power button | Aluminum |
| Frequency Response | SACD:2Hz - 50kHz (-3dB) CD:2Hz - 20kHz (-0.5dB) |
| Harmonic distortion | SACD: 0.0010% CD: 0.0016% |
| S/N | SACD: 119dB CD: 117dB |
| Dynamic Range | SACD: 112dB CD: 101dB |
| Line Output Level | 2.0Vrms (10kohm) |
| DAC Circuit | TI Advanced Current Segment PCM1795(192k/32bit) ×1 |
| Digital Filter | Fixed |
| Digital Processing | Advanced AL32 Processing Plus |
| DAC Master Clock Design (Not Support Network Playback) | Yes |
| Mechanism | TD-505 FOR DM |
| Disc Type | SACD/CD/CD-R/CD-RW DVD-R/+R/-RW/+RW |
| SACD | Yes (Stereo Layer/Multi-D/M) |
| SUPER AUDIO CD TEXT | Yes |
| Playability of files recorded on CD-R/RW : MP3 / WMA / AAC / WAV / FLAC / ALAC / AIFF | Yes / Yes / Yes / Yes (~48kHz/24bit) / Yes (~48kHz/24bit) / Yes (~48kHz/24bit) / Yes (~48kHz/24bit) |
| Playability of files recorded on DVD R/RW : MP3 / WMA / AAC / WAV / FLAC / ALAC / AIFF / DSD (DIFF / DSF) | Yes / Yes / Yes / Yes (~192kHz/24bit) / Yes (~192kHz/24bit) / Yes (~96kHz/24bit) / Yes (~196kHz/24bit) / Yes(~5.6MHz) |
| Firmware Update | Yes(FE/BE, MCU) |
| Fixed Analog Output (RCA) | Cinch x 1 (Gold Plated) |
| Optical input / output (Maximum Support) | 0 / 1 |
| Coaxial input / output (Maximum Support) | 0 / 1 |
| Remote Controller | System Remote (Amp and CD Player Control) |
| On-Product Buttons | Power Disc Layer Pure Direct Play/Pause Stop Fwd/Rev Open/Close |
| LED | POWER: 1 Green |
| Front Panel Display | Single Line |
| Dimmer for Front Display | Bright / Dim / Dark / Off |
| Control with App via Network Player (Use Remote Control Bus) | Yes |
| Pure Direct Mode | Yes |
| Last Function Memory | Yes |
| Remote Control Bus Terminal | Yes |
| Remote Control | Yes (controllable PMA-1700NE) |
| Battery | Yes (AAA x2) |
| Power Cord | Yes |
| Other | Stereo RCA Cable x1 |
| Timer Play (Need external audio timer) | Yes |
| Auto Standby Mode | Yes |
Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 S2 In Ear True Wireless Headphones
Description
Pi7 S2
In-ear True Wireless earbuds.
What does it take to create category-defining True Wireless earbuds? High-resolution sound and crystal-clear voice calls, an industry-first wireless audio retransmission case, plus a choice of three elegant colours.
True 24-bit connection with aptX™ Adaptive
Hear your favorite music and movies as they were meant to be heard, thanks to a true 24-bit connection between left and right earbuds for superior sound quality plus high-resolution wireless audio that adjusts dynamically to optimise performance.
Hear music and movies as the artist intended
Small, yet powerful, two-way drive units in each earbud work just like high-performance speakers, creating rich, immersive sound - from deep and powerful bass to expressive and detailed high notes, and everything in between.
Adaptive active noise cancellation
Advanced active noise-cancellation monitors noise and adapts to your surroundings, so nothing gets in the way of the music you love.
Wireless audio retransmission technology
A transformative Smartcase that also functions as an audio retransmission system, connecting directly to external audio sources such as in-flight entertainment systems.
Specifications:
Size & weight
| Net weight | Earbuds: 7 g (each) Charging case: 47 g |
| Dimensions (Carry Case) | 61 mm (w) x 28 mm (d) x 56 mm (h) |
Technical details
| Wearing style | In-ear noise cancelling True Wireless headphones |
| Technical features | True 24-bit audio connection 2-way drive unit design High performance DSP Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX™ Adaptive technology Adaptive ANC Audio retransmission from charging case Wireless and USB-C charging Fast charging support |
| Bluetooth codecs | aptX™ – Adaptive aptX™ – HD aptX™ – Classic AAC SBC |
| Bluetooth profiles | A2DP v1.3.1 AVRCP v1.6.1 HFP v1.7.1 HSP v1.2 BLE GATT (Generic Attribute Profile) |
| Frequency band | Tx mode: 2402MHz to 2480MHZ, ISM Band Rx mode: 2402MHz to 2480MHz, ISM Band |
| RF output power | <10.0 dBm |
| Drive units | 9.2mm Dynamic Drive with Balanced Armature |
| Microphones | Three microphones per earbud for calls and ANC |
| Battery life & charging | Up to 5 hours for earbuds (with ANC off) Additional 16 hours from charging case 15 minute charge = 2 hours playback |
| Battery type | Rechargeable Lithium-ion (earbuds and charging case) |
| Wireless Charging Support | Yes |
| Waterproof | Yes - IP54 (earbuds only) |
| Inputs | Earbuds: Bluetooth Charging case: USB-C & 3.5 mm analogue jack (wireless audio retransmission via charging case) |
| In box accessories | 80 cm USB-C to USB-C charging cable 80 cm 3.5 mm jack to USB-C audio cable Small / Medium / Large ear tips |
Finishes
| Finishes | Satin Black Canvas White Midnight Blue |
Pioneer VSX-834 AV Receiver
Description
In a 15 % slimmer design than the previous model, the VSX-834 is full of easy-to-use features, including the 4K indicator, and Personal Preset and Bluetooth® Input buttons on the front panel. In addition to offering immersive sound with Dolby Atmos® and DTS:X audio formats, the AV receiver can also decode Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer* and DTS Virtual:X, letting you experience similar virtual surround effects without using height or surround speakers. The latest video standards such as Ultra HD, HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision™ can be enjoyed with support for HDCP 2.3. With the Zone B feature, you can enjoy music playing in the Main Zone via wireless headphones.
Dolby Atmos®/Dolby Surround Upmixing
The VSX-834 is compatible with 5.2.2ch configuration of the latest cinema sound platform, Dolby Atmos®. You can reproduce object-oriented sound in smooth, curving movements, or the realistic three-dimensional movement overhead by the top speakers. Other audio codecs such as PCM and DSD can be upmixed using Dolby Surround for enjoying 3D surround sound.
DTS:X®/DTS Neural:X Upmixing
DTS:X is the next-generation audio codec from DTS that leverages object-based audio to enable new immersive and interactive audio experiences. Since DTS:X can automatically adapt the audio to the existing channels and speaker system, no specific speaker layout is required. Experience an immersive soundscape with incredibly rich and life-like audio. Other audio codecs such as PCM and DSD can be upmixed using DTS Neural:X for enjoying 3D surround sound.
Specifications:
General Specifications:
|
Brand |
Pioneer |
|
AV Receiver Speaker Channels |
7.2 Channel |
|
Color |
Black |
|
Watts RMS per Channel (6 Ω) |
165 Watts |
|
Watts RMS per Channel (8 Ω) |
80 Watts |
|
Bluetooth® Wireless Technology |
Yes |
|
On-Screen Display |
Yes |
|
FM |
Yes |
|
AM |
Yes |
|
Built-in DAC (Digital to Analogue Converter) |
Yes |
|
Warranty |
Australian Manufacturer Warranty |
Surround Sound Processing:
|
Dolby® Sound Technology |
Dolby® Atmos™, Dolby® Atmos Height Virtualisation, Dolby® TrueHD, Dolby® Surround, Dolby® Digital Plus |
|
DTS™ Technology |
DTS:X™, DTS Virtual:X™, DTS Neural:X™, DTS™ 96/24 |
Inputs and Outputs
|
Main Speaker Terminals |
7 |
|
Subwoofer Outputs |
2 |
|
HDMI Inputs |
4 |
|
HDMI Monitor Outputs |
1 |
|
Optical Digital Inputs |
1 |
|
Coaxial Digital Inputs |
1 |
|
USB A Ports |
1 |
Dimensions:
|
Product Dimension (H×W×D) |
148 x 435 x 321 mm |
|
Product Weight |
8 Kg |
Blog posts
KEF R Series Meta Launch!
It has been a bit over two years since KEF released the LS50 Meta. Meta, short for 'Metamaterial Absorption Technology' was a major innovation from KEF in 2020. The company describes '[Metamaterials] are specially developed structures that use existing materials in such a way that they exhibit new properties. MAT’s tuned channels absorb 99% of the unwanted sound from the rear of driver, compared to around 60% absorption from loudspeakers using different approaches."
Meta was subsequently rolled out to KEF's flagship speaker, Blade, and the LS60 wireless'. The improvements were self-evident.
The KEF R Series has now received the Meta upgrade. This will offer a significant upgrade to the R Series, already renowned for its value-for-money, it just keeps getting better.
Stock is due to arrive soon, we're excited to have them in-store, and so should you!
Click here to browse the new range...
Marantz, Denon and Polk February Specials
Denon AVR-X2700H AV Receiver $1699 down from $1999
Denon DCD-1700NE AL32 CD/SACD Player $2699 down from $2999
Denon DHT-S517 Soundbar $637 down from $749
Denon DP 450 USB Turntable $909 down from $1299
Marantz NR1510 Home Theatre AV Receiver $1232 down from $1450
Marantz SR7015 Home Theatre AV Receiver $3399 down from $3999
Polk Audio Magnifi 2 Soundbar $764 down from $899
Polk Audio Signa S2 Soundbar $322 down from $379
Polk Audio Signa S4 Soundbar $594 down from $699
PS Audio DirectStream DAC MK2 Now Available + Trade In Offer
The brand new PS Audio DirectStream DAC MK 2 is now available at an RRP of $13,995
If you own a PS Audio DirectStream DAC MK1, you can trade it in and receive a discount on the MK2, the trade in prices are as follows:
For the past 8 years, the PerfectWave DirectStream DAC has been recognized throughout the world as a reference standard. We are proud to introduce its successor, the PerfectWave DirectStream DAC MK2.
Since its groundbreaking introduction 8 years ago, the PerfectWave DirectStream has stood alone as one of the most remarkable DACs ever built. We are excited to share with the world the next generation of this technological wonder, the PerfectWave DirectStream DAC MK2. Unlike the vast majority of high-end DACs based on off-the-shelf IC technology, DirectStream MK2 utilizes user-upgradeable software based on handwritten FPGA code. At its core, the MK2 utilizes discrete, galvanically isolated, perfection-based conversion that uncovers all the missing information hiding in your digital audio media. CDs, streaming audio, high-resolution PCM or DSD based media are expertly upsampled in the DirectStream MK2 to twenty times DSD rate and output as pure analog directly into your amplifier or preamplifier. There has never been a better sounding DAC at anywhere close to the price of DirectStream MK2. The ground breaking DirectStream DAC was the first choice of thousands of critical listeners worldwide, and now with the introduction of the MK2, that legacy will continue.
Read More On The DirectStream DAC MK2 Here
Bowers & Wilkins Reveal New PX8: McLaren Edition Headphones
A common desire to push boundaries, of innovation and of excellence – and a common disdain for compromise. Two companies with shared ambitions and shared expertise deliver a peerless experience.
The partnership is built on firm technical foundations. We worked closely with McLaren's design and engineering teams to create and optimise the audio system found in McLaren's supercars since 2015.
We are now bringing the partnership to life through series of brand partnership activities and a limited-edition premium headphone, the Px8 McLaren Edition. The partnership also gives us the opportunity to bring the McLaren in-car experience, into the home for owners and fans alike.
Our flagship wireless headphone, the Px8 gets a new CMF to celebrate the
partnership. The Px8 McLaren Edition utilises the already luxurious materials of the headphones and elevates them with bold and dynamic McLaren co-branding.
Px8 is our flagship wireless headphone. It’s the ultimate combination of exceptional performance, premium materials, intelligent technology, and smart features.
A new reference in headphones
We’ve never made a better headphone than Px8. A high-resolution 24-bit DSP is partnered with all-new driver technology to deliver outstanding resolution, capable of capturing nuances in your music that may otherwise be missed. This is headphone listening on all-new levels of immersion and realism.
Angled Carbon Cones
Px8’s precisely angled Carbon Cone drive units reduce distortion, resulting in massively improved clarity. Coupled to a fully optimized drive unit ‘motor system’, with revised magnet, voice coil and surround, the result is unparalleled accuracy and realism.
High-resolution sound with advanced DSP
Px8 uses aptX™ Adaptive wireless technology and powerful Digital Signal Processing to ensure outstanding 24-bit high-resolution sound quality from suitable streaming services. You can also connect to your laptop via USB to enjoy high-resolution streaming.
Cancel the noise, not your music
Px8's proprietary noise cancellation technology ensures outstanding performance with no impact on musicality. Six microphones work together to deliver the best results, both for noise cancellation and clearer voice calls.
Comfort, for longer
Cast aluminum arms and fine Nappa leather trim leave you in no doubt that Px8 is a headphone every bit as special as it sounds. And with 30 hours of listening from a single charge you can enjoy the experience for over a day at a time.
Read More On & Purchase The PX8 Mclaren Edition Here
Isoacoustics zaZen I Wins The Absoloute Sound Product Of The Year Award
Read More & Purchase The Isoacoustics zaZen I Here:
Bowers & Wilkins PX8 Headphones Now In Store
The much anticipated Bowers & Wilkins PX8 active noise cancelling wireless headphones are now in store, so why not come in and check them out?
Bowers & Wilkins PX8 Headphones:
A new reference in headphones
We’ve never made a better headphone than Px8. A high-resolution 24-bit DSP is partnered with all-new driver technology to deliver outstanding resolution, capable of capturing nuances in your music that may otherwise be missed. This is headphone listening on all-new levels of immersion and realism.
Angled Carbon Cones
Px8’s precisely angled Carbon Cone drive units reduce distortion, resulting in massively improved clarity. Coupled to a fully optimized drive unit ‘motor system’, with revised magnet, voice coil and surround, the result is unparalleled accuracy and realism.
High-resolution sound with advanced DSP
Px8 uses aptX™ Adaptive wireless technology and powerful Digital Signal Processing to ensure outstanding 24-bit high-resolution sound quality from suitable streaming services. You can also connect to your laptop via USB to enjoy high-resolution streaming.
Cancel the noise, not your music
Px8's proprietary noise cancellation technology ensures outstanding performance with no impact on musicality. Six microphones work together to deliver the best results, both for noise cancellation and clearer voice calls.
See & read more on the PX8's Here
Our Store
Unit 4/31 Wollongong Street
Fyshwick
ACT 2609
(02) 6247 4844
Mon - Fri, 10am - 5:00pm
Saturday, 10am - 4:00pm
Sunday, Closed