In this Master Fidelity video they seem to focus on DSD and blow past PCM. Are some DACs only optimized for DSD and others strive to make the most of both formats? If yes, how can we best learn more about how DACs are optimized and how file formats impact listening? https://youtu.be/Ri04qt63s2k?feature=shared
Hi Jonathan,
I have the Cascade DAC and it is amazing.
In the explanation of their technology ( Learn More About MSB Hybrid DAC Technology - MSB Technology ) MSB explains that their DAC modules are dynamically configured to act as a native PCM DAC when converting PCM and as a native DSD DAC when they are converting DSD.
Some DACs, internally, only support one kind of format and convert all the input they receive to that kind of format. Unfortunately, typically, you can’t tell if a DAC is doing this from its marketing materials or specs.
In the end, it’s best to use your 
to judge a DAC 
Everyone who comes to my house to listen to music can’t believe how good the Cascade is… probably one reason is that the Cascade does native processing regardless of the format of the source
Dan
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Correct! That is where the Hybrid DAC gets its name. In the past, DSD was converted to PCM, but we created a design from the ground up that didn’t compromise for either PCM or DSD. It is tricky, but it is possible. And I would agree that the majority of DAC’s out there have not been able to prioritize both. And yes, you can never really know either way 
How about premier dac? Does it the same even the name does not hybrid? 
thanks
You bet, it is just a miniaturized version of the Hybrid DAC.
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Okay, I just found this post while doing some research on an issue I’m having with my new Reference DAC and my Aurender N20 transport/streamer. I’m currently using Pro ISL/USB am my connection.
Since introducing the Aurender into the system, I haven’t been totally satisfied with the sound. It sounded thin and lacking detail.
I went through all of the settings on the streamer, and all seemed good. Mind you I don’t stream native DSD files, only PCM FILES via Qobuz.
I then went to the Reference menu and noticed that the previous owner had the DSD set to 8x sampling, which I thought was a bit strange, and since I don’t play DSD files I set it to Native DSD.
After that I decided to play a track I know very well, and was struck by how much fuller the sound was and vocals seemed more coherent.
How is this possible??
Any thoughts here??
Mike
Hmmmmm, not sure on that. Perhaps @Jonathan_Gullman has an insight.
Glad to hear it is sounding good though! That is the important bit 