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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