Audio Basis - articles about audio
If you love audiophile sound, you've heard of DSD music (Direct Stream Digital). It is a high-qualitative format for music lovers. These recording are distributed as DSD music downloads or SACD (Super Audio CD) optical discs. Different genres are there. But, classical and jazz are the most popular. They require special attention to details. Nowadays, we have a big music catalogue to get pleasure from high fidelity.
Below you'll find:
- where you can get free DSD high-resolution music downloads, DSD64 128 256 512 1024 (2.8 5.6 11.2 22.5 45.2 MHz) audio files, stereo, multichannel albums and samples for music lovers;
- where to purchase audiophile albums;
- how to play Direct Stream Digital natively;
- what sound quality is better: mp3, WAV, MQA, FLAC. DXD or DSD and SACD;
- Frequently Asked Questions.
Keep reading.
Top 5 of the best DSD music file download websites
If you are interested in DSD music downloads for audiophiles, want to buy sound files or get it for free, look at the list below.
Disclaimer: Noted in the list file formats and other details were found at the sites at the time of publication. It can disappear or be changed with time.
We publish here only sites, that look legal in our opinion. But we don't guarantee it.
It is not advertising or offer. Our site is not affiliated with listed sites (except Audiophile Inventory). We are not responsible for the listed resources, their record quality, etc.
Visit our top 5 of the best sites with free DSD music file downloads [in alphabetical order].
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Audiophile Inventory
Free original music and test signal samples in DSF format with sample rates: DSD64, DSD128, DSD256, DSD512, and DSD1024.
Genre: electronic rock, instrumental, test.
Let's get free downloads -
Blue Coast Records
Audiophile recording label and store, where are free DSD downloads in DSD64, DSD128, DSD256 (11.2 MHz) and other formats for music lovers who care about sound quality.
Genre: acoustic, americana, jazz, folk, pop, new age.
Download music free online
DSD demo music download free link #2 (registering is required) -
Hifi Statement
Audionetwork magazine with free Direct Steram Digital samples.
Genre: jazz.
Free DSD64, DSD128, DSD256 -
NativeDSD
Hi-Fi store with catalog of DSD albums: DSD and DXD audio downloads in 64fs, 128fs, 256fs DSD and other, stereo and multichannel.
Genres: acoustic, alternative, ambient, classical, big band, blues, chamber, jazz, choir, country, electronic, ethnic, funk, indie, new age, pop, and others.
Download DSD music free -
OPPO Digital
DSD download free demo tracks.
Genre: folk, world, country.
Free downloads
See below the long list continuation...
Where can I download DSD music for free and buy it?
-
2L
Norwegian audiophile label. Music store. It offers DSD music in 2.8, 5.6, 11.2 MHz and other file formats for music lovers.
Genre: classical. -
Audiophile Music
You can buy audiophile music downloads up to DSD512, SACD.
Genres: jazz, classical, pop, acoustic, super bass, rock, guitar, test, folk, world, piano, and others. -
Bruce Springsteen
Live Bruce Springsteen's website.
Genre: rock. -
Channel Classics Records
Record shop for classical, contemporary music and jazz. In the store DSD64, DSD128, DSD256 and other audiophile formats are available.
Genre: classical. -
Chasing the Dragon
Audiophile recordings in their native resolutions. DSD 64, DSD128, binaural recordings are provided.
Genres: classical, piano, jazz, pop. -
Dr.Z's Test CD
DSD audio file downloads.
Genre: test. -
DSD Master
DSD sample downloads.
Genre: various. -
HDtracks
The big online store of high definition music in DSD (up to DSD512), DXD, stereo, multichannel music.
Genres: afro house, alternative, bollywood, chamber, childrens, jazz, rock, dance, country, indie, r&b, hip-hop, classical, comedy, and others. -
High Definition Tape Transfers
Recording store. DSD64/128/256 and other sound formats are available.
Genres: classical, jazz. -
Highresaudio
The online store of high quality music downloads. The website provides .dsf files in DSD64, DSD128, DSD256.
Genres: grunge, indie rock, blues, classical, easy listening, instrumental, jazz, new age, pop, and others. -
Hi Fi track
High-resolution music shop that offers audio in different format including "Direct studio master".
Genres: pop, rock, new age, jazz, and others. -
Gumroad | Serieril
Wechseldominante's owner offers DSD64, DSD256 files.
Genres: piano, instrumental. -
MIR Creation
Production and online delivery entity that provides DSD downloads.
Genres: acoustic, vocal, jazz, instrumental. -
Mora
Online store of music recordings. Audio files up to DSD256 are provided.
Genres: jazz, classical, j-pop. -
Nugs.net
Online service with professionally recorded live music in DSD audio format.
Genres: indie rock, americana, bluegrass, blues, classic rock, country, electronic, jazz, pop, rap, hip-hop, reggae, and others -
Onkyo
Audio record store with DSD albums up to 11.2 MHz.
Genres: japan, rock, pop, jazz, classical, anime, soul, electronic, and others.
Free downloading samples -
Ototoy
DSD online music store with sound files with sampling rate up to DSD fsx256.
Genres: pop, classical, alternative, experimental, piano, house, hip-hop, folk, organic, easy listening, and others. -
Pentatone
Classical music label with catalogue of qualitative recordings.
See F.A.Q. (Downloading SA-CD) -
ProStudioMasters
Online recording store that offers DSF files (2.8 and 5.6 MHz).
Genres: alternative, blues, classical, country, electronic, hip-hop, jazz, others -
The Spirit of Turtle
Music platform for high-resolution audio for music lovers: DSD64/128/256 (2.0 and 5.1), surround, 3D-spatial sound formats. -
SONY
High-resolution audio including DSD downloads by SONY. -
trptk
DSD albums DSD64/128/256 -
Wechseldominante
Site of Japanese self-publishing music group.
DSD downloads free
DSD streaming
It is possible to listen to DSD streaming.
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PrimeSeat
[unavailable]
DSD streaming service. Some free content is available.
Look at other hi-res streaming...
What is DSD music?
What does DSD mean in music?
DSD (Direct Stream Digital) in music is an audiophile format of digital music recordings. This content is provided as:
- audio files or
- optical discs (SACD, Super Audio CD).
Why DSD?
DSD was conceived as an improvement of CD audio for better sound quality. High sampling rates with 1-bit resolution are the main features of this advanced format.
24 bit / 96 kHz and other hi-res multi-bit formats (PCM) are DSD's competitors. PCM is distributed as DVD-audio optical disks or various computer files.
In comparison with PCM, DSD has additional editing issues. It is not a matter for final distribution or archiving of old analog recordings.
What is DSD music file?
DSD audio files are files, that are capable of containing Direct Stream Digital music content.
DSD files have extensions:
Super Audio CD (SACD) is an optical disk with DSD sound data. Super Audio CD may be hybrid: CD layer + DSD layer.
SACD optical disc may be ripped to SACD ISO file. How to rip it read here...
Read more here...
Who uses DSD?
Direct Stream Digital was intended to improve sound quality of CD-audio format. DSD format is recommended for music lovers primarily.
Theoretically, the format allows playing back at a DAC simpler way, in comparison with PCM DAC. But, in real life, DSD doesn't guarantee superiority over PCM for every case.
DSD is a high-resolution audio source. And it's used for classical music and jazz often.
Read more about DSD...
See also:
- What is DSD [in details]...
- DSD vs PCM [in details]...
- DSD players
- DSD converters
- DSD: Frequently Asked Questions
How good is DSD audio?
Is DSD better than FLAC?
FLAC is a traditional multibit PCM (Pulse Code Modulation) format with lower sampling rates than DSD. FLAC's maximum resolution is 32 bit / 384 kHz. In contrast, DSD has 1-bit resolution with higher sampling rates.
From a technical point of view, we should ask the more correct question: what is better PCM or DSD?
DSD format supports sample rates: DSD 64, DSD 128, DSD 256, DSD 512, DSD 1024, ... Larger numbers mean a higher sample rate.
DSD64 = 44100 Hz * 64 = 2.8 MHz
DSD256 = 44100 Hz * 256 = 11.3 MHz
Higher frequency gives better abilities to improve signal-to-noise ratio. You can read about it here...
If compare DSD and FLAC, it may seem that multi-bit formats from 16 to 32 bits provide better sound quality than 1-bit ones.
However, extremely high sampling rates of Direct Stream Digital format allow for providing tricks, that give sound quality like 24- or 32-bit of Pulse Code Modulation of FLAC.
It is theoretical audio quality. In real life, the quality depends on used DAW or converting utilities, recording and playback equipment. The file format is only part of a full set of factors that impacts the listening experience.
Electronic circuits and software algorithms cause lesser or more distortions. In theory, DSD systems from ADC to DAC are simpler than PCM ones. And, we should expect better sound quality from Direct Stream Digital.
Which is better DSF or FLAC? DSD vs FLAC and other PCM audio
DSD vs FLAC is not like a car vs a supercar.
If all is done correctly, DSD vs FLAC can be like a car vs another car in the same market segment.
Both vehicles can bring us from A to B point with similar comfort.
However, each of these cars just consists of different parts.
Thus, we can suggest approximately that:
Approximate sound quality comparison DSD, FLAC, mp3, CD audio
(depending on the implementation of a DSD system)
| Audio format | DSD distortions |
|---|---|
| mp3, CD audio, FLAC 16bit | DSD64 is better |
| FLAC 24 bit | DSD64 and DSD128 |
| FLAC 32 bit | DSD256 and above |
Note: Here we qualitative DSD coder and decoder implementations.
Read more about the comparison of DSD and FLAC and other PCM...
Is DSD better than CD?
DSD appeared as CD development to bring higher quality at that time. The quality may be achieved via lesser noise level in the audible range and lesser artefacts.
Direct Stream Digital allows a slightly simplify DAC scheme theoretically. Also, DSD has no issues with nonlinear distortions like R2R DAC. I.e., theoretically, DSD should give better sound quality than CD format.
Read more...
The author supposes, that ultrasound playback was not targeted for this format development.
DSD or CD. What is better?
Let's image a CD as a window that has glass with slightly different thicknesses in various surface points. It's produced via technology A.
For example, we have a technology B (let's be DSD) that allows us to make more smooth glass.
However, different B-technology manufacturing equipment has different output glass quality.
And some B-technology equipment (DSD) makes the glass almost the same as the A-technology (CD) or even worse.
Which is better MQA or DSD?
MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) is one of the PCM formats.
Despite MQA being a lossy format, it provides audiophile quality.
There is no unequivocal opinion that one is better. Because any audio system has a complex of factors impacting sound. And difference between hi-fi formats is not primarily definitive in this case.
We can compare MQA and DSD usual way...
Sound quality of DSD downloads
In general, it is recommended to download hi-end music recordings with the maximum sample rate of your system.
Example: if your DAC is DSD512 capable, buy or download music in Direct Stream Digital format with sampling rate 22.6 MHz (fs x 512, DSD512 have the same meaning).
It can't guarantee the best audio quality always. But it's a good starting point.
Read how to look for the best available sound here...
Sound quality in simple words
Sound quality has no standard definition. Each person may interpret "sound quality" as he/she wants.
Technically, the sound quality may be estimated via distortions applied to music from a primal source.
It's like dirt added to clean water. The water has changed transparency. So its quality gets worse.
However, colored dirt may give the water more expression. In instance, water in a lake becomes blue. And, it seems, the water looks more beautiful than just transparent water.
And we can say, that analog distortions enhance sound. Despite the sound differs from the original acoustic source.
Some people try to analyze audio files. Bandwidth is checked in most cases. But the width may be defined by used audio tools. Band limitation is not an unambiguous sign of upsampling from CD, as an example.
DSD resampling quality (losses) depends on the used converter. Technically, these losses are like PCM resampling distortions. If you use a professional resampler, in general, you can don't worry about quality in any kind of conversion.
But, playback equipment and software do a big matter of audible quality.
If an original studio master is made in PCM, you have two options:
- purchase DSD copy that is done in a studio; or
- purchase PCM and convert it to DSD via your converter software, which should provide a low distortion level.
The second way may be preferable if you are sure that your converter is the same or better than a studio one.
The most recommended format is DSF file downloads. Because the format supports metadata, including artworks. As rule, DSF files have better compatibility issues with hardware and software.
DFF files may be recommended to provide compatibility with some professional software and equipment.
How to play DSD audio
You can play DSD audio files and SACD optical disks with special hardware players.
DSD files may be played back with software on a computer, mobile phone, portable DAP (digital audio player), music server.
SACD optical disk requires a special disk drive. Some SONY VAIO computers are capable to play SACD using their own software.
Look at DSD player software and devices, read about sound quality and settings here...
How to convert DSD
DSD files may be either:
- converted to PCM, or
- resampled to DSD, or
- repacked from DSF to/from DFF.
The conversion to PCM and resampling DSD are lossy operations. However, proper conversion causes insignificant issues.
Conversion DFF from/to DSF without sample-rate change and other processing, is bit-perfect and doesn't cause losses.
Read how to convert DSD files...
How to edit DSD
DSD may be edited. But editing result can not be saved in 1-bit format.
Gain altering is editing kind too.
To edit DSD, it should be converted in processing-capable format.
After editing, re-modulation to 1-bit samples is required.
Read how to edit DSD files...
DSD software for audio
DSD software may convert .dsf, .dff, .iso (SACD ISO) files to other formats, resample DSD, playback and edit these audio files.
Frequently Asked Questions
F.A.Q. DSD audio and music
What is music DSD?
DSD music is digital format. It is high-resolution audio. The format is distributed two ways: SACD optical disk or computer audio files in Direct Stream Digital format. You can get DSD audio files here. The format is intended for music lovers, primarily and consumes significant hard disk space of a sound system. This format is alternative of PCM and was designed as replacement of CD.
Read details...
What is DSD music format?
DSD music format is an audiophile format, that solves issues of 16 bit/44.1 kHz CD resolution. This music format is available in SACD physical disks and DSF, DFF, SACD ISO (.iso) files. Read details...
Also read: How to improve sound quality...
Is DSD hi-res?
Yes. DSD is one of the high-resolution audio formats. Despite 1-bit resolution, DSD may provide noise floor comparable with hi-res PCM audio.
Read more...
What is the difference between PCM and DSD?
DSD is akin to 1-bit PCM. As far as is known, low bit depth causes high noise in a recording. To achieve an appropriate noise floor, in comparison with PCM, some technical decisions are used.
Is DSD the same as SACD? Is SACD the same as DSD?
SACD (Super Audio CD) is an optical disc, that contains audio in Direct Stream Digital (DSD) format.
Read details...
What is DSD 5.6 Mhz?
DSD 5.6 MHz (128 x fs) is a sampling rate of Direct Stream Digital format: 5.6 MHz=44100 Hz * 128.
Read more...
What is DSD256?
DSD256(256 x fs) is a sample rate of DSD audio: 11.3 MHz=44100 Hz * 256.
Read more...
What is DSD512?
DSD512 (512 x fs) is a sampling rate of DSD format 22.6 MHz=44100 Hz * 512.
Read more...
What are DSD music files?
DSD music files are files that contain Direct Stream Digital audio.
Read details...
What is DSF audio file?
Read the DSF file's quick guide here...
Is DSD a file format?
DSD is an audio data format. .dsf, .dff, .iso (SACD ISO) files contain audio data in DSD format.
Read more...
What is DFF audio file?
DFF audio file is one of DSD format containers. Its audio data content is identical to DSF by sound quality. Read DFF file details here...
Are DSD files compressed?
Is DSD uncompressed?
SACD optical disk and .dff files may be compressed via Direct Stream Transfer (DST) method. Read more...
What are DSD files? What is a DSD file?
DSD files (.dsf, .dff, .iso [sacd iso], DoP FLAC, WAV, others) are files, that contain DSD audio data.
Read details...
Is DSD a SACD?
SACD is an optical disk containing DSD audio recordings. It's music in most cases.
Read more...
Are SACDs still being made?
Yes. You can find SACD in these online stores...
Is FLAC the same as DSD?
No. FLAC is a multi-bit format based on pulse-code modulation. DSD is a one-bit format based on sigma-delta modulation.
Read about their sound quality comparison...
What is a DSD CD?
DSD CD is not a standard name. SACD (Super Audio CD) is the official name of DSD compact disc.
Read more...
What is a DSD download?
DSD downloads, primarily, are audio files in .dsf, .dff, .iso (SACD ISO) formats. They are intended for lovers of high sound quality including master studio fidelity of music. Direct Stream Digital can contain: stereo, multichannel/surround, binaural, and other digital recordings.
See the download list...
What is DXD audio format?
DXD is legacy multi-bit audio data generated from DSD data. Read more...
What are DSD and MQA?
What are DSD and MQA formats? Comparison
| DSD | MQA | |
|---|---|---|
| Bit depth | 1-bit | 24 bit / 16 bit (MQA CD) |
| Sampling rate |
from 2.8 MHz, de |
from 96 kHz, de |
|
Hi-Res Au |
yes | yes |
|
Size com |
no, loss |
yes, los |
| DAC |
DAC is sim |
PCM DAC with MQA sup |
| Stereo, 1-minute size | about 5500 kbps (DSD64) |
about 1200 kbps (24 bit/44.1 kHz be |
What music is available in DSD?
In DSD, classical music and jazz, which requires a higher dynamic range, are available rather.
Is DSD lossless?
Yes. DSD is a lossless music format.
Read more...
Does SACD use DSD?
Yes. SACD uses DSD audio as content.
Read more...
What is the difference between DSD and DSF?
.dsf is a file type that contains audio stuff coded in DSD (Direct Stream Digital) format.
What is DSD remastered?
Remastering DSD or others is manipulation with an audio file, in instance, frequency response correction, reverberation adding, dynamic range altering, etc.
How big is DSD?
Look at DSD file sizes here...
What is DSD over PCM?
DSD over PCM (DoP) is DSD audio stream that is packed in ordinary PCM format. It allows standard transmitting of sound data to a DAC. Read more...
What is DSD via HDMI?
DSD audio may be transmitted via quasi-HDMI (I2S transmission [*]) hardware interface. The interface on DAC has HDMI connector. But that interface is not HDMI by electrical, hardware, software parts.
If a hardware audio unit (player/receiver) is DSD compatible, it can transmit DSD data via HDMI interface. HDMI can unite units in DLNA network and transmit DSD via protocol DoPE (DoP over Ethernet). In DLNA settings, "Bitstream DSD" option should be activated.
Read discussion...
F.A.Q. DSD sound quality
Is DSD audio worth it?
In the general case, DSD allows for solving some issues of ADC and DAC analog filters on lower sampling rates. Potentially, it gives advantages to sound quality. But each case should be considered separately because recording quality and audio system implementation does matter. Read details...
Is DSD good?
Originally, DSD is used to solve some issues of analog filters on low sampling rates. It should give sound-quality advantages in theory. The fact that quality of recording and given audio system are defining. Read more...
How good is DSD?
DSD audio is a sound format, that allows minimizing stages between microphone and loudspeaker. However, it is not simple in editing (EQ, gain, etc.). Read more...
Is DSD the best audio format?
Each audio format solves certain issues. One format tries to keep the maximum sound quality. Other formats keep occupied space on a hard disk. Third formats solve streaming issues, etc. So, an audio format may be best for a given target only.
DSD format tries to solve some issues of PCM format recording and playback. However, DSD has more sophisticated editing and may consume higher hard disk space comparing CD audio, in instance.
Read more (it's recommended to read in order of the links):
Is SACD better than FLAC?
SACD (Super Audio CD) contains DSD sound content. To answer the question read the article "DSD vs FLAC"...
Is DSD better than FLAC?
No single answer to the question.
Theoretically, DSD system is simpler, than FLAC (PCM) one. So, lesser distortions are there.
Actual sound quality depends on recording and playback music system.
Read about the comparison of DSD and FLAC...
Does DSD sound better than FLAC?
DSD audio has potential abilities that can solve some issues of PCM systems, including FLAC.
Real music equipment may sound better or worse case-to-case. FLAC may sound better than DSD and vice versa.
Read more: DSD vs FLAC...
Is DXD better than DSD?
DXD is PCM format, that is intended for DSD editing. As rule, DSD is converted to DXD. Such kind of conversion causes losses, that rely on sound quality of audio conversion software. As we noted above, DXD is an ordinary PCM format with sampling rate 352/705 kHz and bit depth 24 or 32 bit.
Both DSD and DXD formats have advantages and disadvantages. So, given recording and audio systems make audio quality.
Read DSD vs PCM...
Is DSD better than mp3?
DSD is a lossless audio format. mp3 is a lossy format. Thus, DSD causes lesser distortions than mp3 and it is better for music lovers.
However, DSD consumes significantly more space on hard disk. It may cause a lesser song number on mobile devices especially.
It must be taken into account, that mp3 doesn't support high resolution. And it causes some technical issues for DAC building.
Read more about audio formats...
Which is better DSD or FLAC? Is FLAC better than DSD?
FLAC is PCM format. DSD can solve some of their issues. Audio system's components define how the matters will be solved.
Read more...
Is DSD better than PCM? Is PCM better than DSD?
Only audio system implementation defines sound quality. Potentially, DSD gives some design advantages to achieve better sound quality.
It is necessary to remember, PCM DAC contains a DSD modulator. This enables reduce non-linear distortions of R2R-matrix of a DAC.
Which is better PCM or DSD?
Only audio system implementation defines sound quality. However, potentially, DSD gives some design advantages to achieve better sound quality. Read more...
Can you hear the difference between DSD and FLAC?
You can hear the difference between DSD and FLAC. It's a matter of recording and listening setup.
Read more...
Is SACD better than vinyl?
Vinyl is an analog recording system. It adds additional engineering issues comparing digital ones.
However, specific "vinyl" distortions may be liked by some people.
Read more...
Is DSD better than vinyl?
The vinyl is an analog audio medium. It has excessive engineering matters, if compare with digital sound systems.
But, some people like specific "vinyl sound". It happens due to additional distortions.
Read more...
Are SACD worth it?
SACD is an optical disk, that contains DSD musical tracks. Some disks are recorded in DSD format without editing.
Hi-Fi DSD system is simpler than PCM one, in theory. Thus, lesser distortions should be there. But in fact, many factors are there. And real PCM may sound better than Direct Stream Digital or vice versa.
Read more...
Which is better WAV or DSD?
WAV is PCM format. So, we should compare PCM and DSD. Read more...
F.A.Q. sound quality
What is the highest quality audio?
Theoretically, a more sampling rate is more sound-quality improvement abilities for a developer.
Maximum sampling rates are DSD2048 (44.1 kHz x 2048) and PCM (1.4/1.5 MHz).
Bit depth is processing matter rather. 64-bit float is recommended.
A PCM DAC is 1-bit in most cases. In contrast, an R2R DAC has more implementation issues. Read more...
However, the conversion of multi-bit input to 1-bit final DAC stage is digital processing, where higher bit depths are recommended.
Accounting real electrical issues of a DAC, 24 and more bits are recommended.
What is the highest quality format for audio?
Different audio formats bring the highest sound quality. The quality of recording, given audio system and its modes (audio resolution) are the main factors, that provide sound quality.
An audio file can:
- store resolution;
- keep stored audio stuff without changes (lossless);
- reduce the size of the stored audio stuff.
So, lossless audio formats are the most recommended.
Read more:
What's the highest quality audio file?
Lossless audio files are the best in sound quality technically.
Read more about sound formats...
Is 320kbps good sound quality?
320 kbps bitrate provides hi-fi sound quality.
Read more...
What is the best format for audio quality?
Lossless formats bring the best sound quality. Read the article "What is the best audio format?"
What is the best audio quality?
Audio quality is defined either distortion level or individual preferences. There is no common the best audio quality for everybody.
In instance, some people prefer 44.1 kHz / 16 bit, because they don't listen to difference with higher resolutions. Other people can hear the difference and prefer HD music. Third people choose DSD instead 24 bit / 96 kHz. Analog-sound lovers prefer vinyl and tape because it brings a "cozy" sound.
Read more:
What is the highest quality music format?
The highest quality music format is one of the lossless formats. DSD vs PCM, sampling rate, bit-depth comparisons are not correct for common conclusions. Recording quality and audio unit design are primal factors.
Read more:
Is there anything better than FLAC?
FLAC is a lossless format. Another lossless format sounds the same way.
Lossy formats with bitrates 256 kbps and above sound very close to lossless original. But mp3 supports 44.1 and 48 kHz sampling rates only. So, AAC is more recommended than mp3 due to wider range of the resolutions.
IMPORTANT: Convert lossless format to lossy one and back to lossless causes distortions in final file in comparison with the original.
Conversion between FLAC to/from DSD is lossy. But, DSD may have lesser distortions in your playback system. The opposite variant is possible in another musical system. Sampling rate and bit depth may matter. Higher DSD discretization frequency allows for achieving a clearer audio signal. But, it varies from one unit/software to another one.
In both cases, a backup of original files is recommended.
Read more...
Is FLAC really worth it?
FLAC is an audio codec that's designed for audiophile music. It has compatibility with a wide range of audio devices and software.
Read more...
Is there anything better than FLAC?
FLAC has some limitations in the sampling rate. Increasing this parameter makes it possible to reduce distortions in an audio system. Of course, no warranty is there.
In this case, you can use WAV or AIFF. If sound-file size is more than 4 Gbytes, WAV/RF64 is recommended.
However, FLAC has wider compatibility with musical devices.
Read more...
Is FLAC better than MQA?
FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) is a lossless audio format. MQA (Master Quality Autentificated) is an audiophile lossy format.
Practically, the audible difference may be there or not. There are a set of factors. And each case should be considered separately.
Read more...
F.A.Q. open, edit DSD
How do I create a DSD file?
DSD file may be recorded via a special analog-to-digital converter.
Read how to convert audio files to DSD...
How do I open a DSD file?
Read how to open DSD file...
Where can I listen to DSD? Where can I listen to DSD audio?
To listen to DSD music, you can use a hardware player (DAP or media one) or a computer with software.
How do you record on a DSD?
To record DSD files, DSD ADC (analog-to-digital converter) and recording software are needed.
F.A.Q. where to download DSD
Where can I download DSD albums?
You can download DSD albums at the websites from the list...
Where do I get DSD music files?
You can get DSD music files at the resources:
Where can I get DSD music files?
DSD music files may be obtained here:
How do I get DSD music files?
At these online resources, you can get DSD music files:
Or, you can convert FLAC, WAV and other PCM files to DSF, DFF. Read more...
Where can I get DSD audio files?
To get DSD audio files, visit these web pages:
Where can I download DSD files?
Check out these links, where you can download DSD files:
How do I get DSD music?
You can get DSD music here:
Where can I get music for my DSD?
To get music for your DSD system o DAP, visit these online resources:
Can you download DSD files? Where can I download DSD audio files?
You can download for free and buy DSD files here:
Where can I download DSD for free?
To download DSD files for free, visit these web pages:
Where can I find DSD audio?
You can find DSD audio files (.dsf and .dff) at these resources:
Where can I download DSD music for free?
See DSD music-file download site list...
Where can I get DSD audio (music) files?
You can get DSD audio music files at these online resources...
Where can I download high-quality music for free?
Look at free high-quality music downloads in the site list...
Where can I download DSD songs?
You can look for and download DSD songs here...
Where can I download high quality music for free?
You can download high-quality music for free via these links:
How do I get high-resolution audio?
You can download high-resolution audio files here:
Also, you can optimize CD-quality music to high-resolution mode of your DAC. Read more...
Where can I find DSD music?
See online DSD music downloads free and buy at the website list...
How do I download DSD files?
You can download DSD files at these web resources...
Where can I find DSD example files?
See the list of free DSD example files to test your music system here...
Where can I download high-quality music for free?
You can download high-quality music here...
How can I download FLAC songs for free?
You can look for FLAC songs on these websites with free downloads...
F.A.Q. where to buy DSD
Where can I buy DSD files?
It is possible to buy DSD music at these Internet resources...
Where can I buy DSD music?
You can purchase DSD music at online sites...
Where can I buy DSD files?
To buy DSD files, you can visit these web resources...
Where can I buy DSD music?
You can buy DSD music at these websites...
Where can I buy DSD music files?
You can purchase DSD music files online...
F.A.Q. play DSD
How do you play native DSD?
You can play native DSD with DSD DAC only. Under Windows, ASIO driver should be installed. Under Mac, Core audio is used, as rule. Audio player software should be set to DoP output.
See example...
Use DSD digital audio player device that is capable to play native DSD.
What do you need to play DSD?
To play DSD you need audio player hardware that supports DSD.
You can play DSD with audio player computer software. To better adapt music quality to your requirements, you can use an external DSD DAC.
Read more...
Without DSD player and/or DAC:
Audio files in DSD format may be converted to .flac, .alac, .wav, .aiff, .mp3 and other files.
Read guide...
How do you play a DSD?
You can playback DSD audio with either DAP or media player or mobile phone or tablet or computer.
The three last cases require installing DSD player software.
Read more...
Without DSD player and/or DAC:
Audio files in DSD format may be converted to .flac, .alac, .wav, .aiff, .mp3 and other files.
Read guide...
How do you play DSD on DAC?
To play DSD natively, you need DSD DAC or a proper digital audio player.
Also, you can play DSD on a computer.
As rule, DAC has a driver (ASIO on Windows or Core Audio on Mac).
In a DSD player software's settings, you choose an audio device, that is your DSD DAC. Also, you set this device mode (DoP, in instance).
Read details...
Alternatively, you can convert DSD music files to .wav, .flac, .alac, .aiff, .mp3, .m4a, and other PCM files.
Read more...
What player can play DSD?
You can play DSD on hardware or software player that supports .dsf, .dsf, .iso (SACD ISO). Read more...
If you haven't a DSD player, DSD sound files may be converted to ordinary .wav, .flac, .aiff, .alac, .mp3 files.
Read guide...
How can I play DSD on my computer?
You can play DSD on a computer via player software.
Some audio players can convert DSD to PCM "on fly". PCM may be played back via usual audio card.
Also, DSD may be converted to PCM with high-quality offline.
Or DSD may be played back natively via DSD DAC.
Read details...
How do I get DSD on my computer?
To listen to DSD on your computer, you can get DSD files here...
To playback DSD music, use player software or hardware.
DSD DAC is optional. As rule, audio playback software is capable to convert DSD to PCM "inline" for to use ordinaty PCM DAC.
High-quality conversion is a alternative way to transform DSD to PCM with high quality.
Read more...
Can Android play DSD?
Yes, DSD player software may be installed on Android device.
Alternatively, you can convert DSD audio to .flac, mp3 or .wav files.
Read the guide...
How can I play DSD on my iPhone?
You can play DSD on iPhone with audio player software.
How do you play DSD music?
You can play DSD music via DSD players...
How do I play DSD files on my Mac?
You can play DSD files on Mac with playback software...
What is native DSD playback?
Read what is native DSD playback...
How do I play DSD music files?
You can play DSD files with DSD player hardware or software. Read more...
Can Windows play DSD?
Yes. You can play a DSD file on Windows. Read details...
What is DSD music player for Windows?
See the list of DSD music players for Windows here...
Which is the best audio player for Windows 10?
See recommendations how to find the best audio player for you and the list of high-resolution music players for Windows here...
How can I play DSD files on my PC?
Audio player software can play DSD files. See the list of DSD players for PC...
Can Windows Media Player play DSD?
As far as the author knows, Windows Media Player doesn't support DSD. You can look for alternative software...
Can Windows Media Player play DSD files?
At the moment of answering the question, Windows Media Player isn't capable to play DSD files. Check out DSD playback tools...
Does VLC play DSD files?
As far as the author knows, VLC audio player currently can't play DSD files (*).
Alternatively, you can convert DSD file to FLAC, WAV, etc...
Does VLC support DSD?
At the moment of answering the question, VLC playback software doesn't support DSD music (*).
However, DSD files may be converted to WAV, FLAC, AIFF, mp3, etc...
Can Plex play DSD files?
As the author knows, Plex software converts DSD to PCM when playing files back (discussion).
Also, it is possible to convert DSD to FLAC before playback and listen to the FLACs on the server.
Can iPhone play DSD files?
iPhone can play DSD via audio player software in these ways:
- inline convert to PCM;
- as DoP.
Check the list of DSD players for iOS...
If you do haven't DSD audio player and/or DAC, you may convert DSD files to .flac, .wav, and other files...
Do I need a DAC for DSD?
DSD audio may be played via DSD or PCM DAC. Read details...
Can you play DSD without a DAC?
To play DSD files without DSD DAC, you can either
- use player software or
- pre-convert DSD files to PCM...
Do I need a DAC for DSD?
You can listen to DSD music without special DSD DAC:
- player software
- preliminary conversion of DSD music to ordinary PCM...
F.A.Q. convert rip DSD
How do I convert DSF to FLAC?
You can convert DSF files to FLAC according to the guide...
Can I convert FLAC to DSD?
Yes. You can convert FLAC to DSD. Read details here >
Is DSD to FLAC lossless?
Conversion of DSD to FLAC causes some losses. Their degree depends on converter tool quality.
Should I convert FLAC to DSD?
A DAC may give sound quality improvements in DSD playback mode.
Read details...
Can I convert FLAC to DSD?
Yes. You can convert FLAC to DSD. Read details here >
Is DSD to FLAC lossless?
Conversion DSD to FLAC causes some losses. Their degree is depending on converter tool quality.
Should I convert FLAC to DSD?
A DAC may give sound quality improvements in DSD playback mode.
Read details...
How do I convert mp3 to DSD?
Read how to convert mp3 to DSD files >
Remember, you can't improve sound quality of source audio stuff. But, in some cases, you can optimize audio resolution to your hifi DAC.
How do I convert DSD to mp3?
Remember, DSD to mp3 file conversion causes additional audio quality losses in comparison with FLAC or WAV. It has justification in the case of low HDD space for sound file storage. Higher bitrates (256 kbps and above) are recommended.
Read how to convert DSD to mp3 files...
Can FLAC be converted to DSD?
FLAC can be converted to DSD audio files. Read more...
Can you convert FLAC to DSD?
Yes. You can convert FLAC to DSD files (.dsf, .dff) according to this guide...
How to rip SACD ISO to FLAC?
Read how to rip SACD ISO to FLAC...
F.A.Q. audio streaming
What is DSD audio streaming?
DSD streaming is an internet broadcasting. It should delivery digital music in DSD format. This format requires a high bandwidth of communication channels.
Receiving software must convert DSD to PCM for playback on ordinary digital-to-analog converter (DAC). If you have DSD DAC, look for player, that can translate DSD stream to such DAC directly.
Look at the DSD streaming service...
Can DSD be streamed?
You can listen to streaming service with DSD music...
Is there a DSD streaming service?
Read about DSD streaming service...
Is Tidal a DSD? Does tidal have DSD?
Tidal is not DSD platform. Read about DSD streaming...
Does Tidal have DSD files?
Tidal does not stream DSD audio.
Read more: DSD streaming...
Does Spotify have DSD?
Spotify haven't DSD support. Check out information about DSD streaming here...
Does Spotify have Hi Fi music?
Yes. Spotify has Hi-Fi music streaming. Read more about hi-fi audio streaming...
Does Spotify have lossless audio?
No. At the moment the answer to the question, Spotify doesn't support lossless audio streaming [*].
Read more about online music streaming...
Does Qobuz have DSD? Does Qobuz offer DSD?
Quobuz doesn't have DSD audio. Look at other websites with DSD...
Does Qobuz do DSD?
At the moment answer the question, DSD downloads are not supported by Quobuz [*].
Look at the DSD resources...
Does Qobuz stream DSD?
Quobuz doesn't stream DSD music. Read about DSD streaming...
Is Qobuz PCM or DSD?
Quobuz streams PCM audio. Read about DSD streaming...
Is Qobuz better than TIDAL?
We can discuss the situation at the moment of the answer question.
Tidal provides sound quality:
- up to 1411 kbps FLAC (CD quality), and
- MQA compressed up to 9216 kbps. It may be hi-fi lossy compression 24 bit / 96 kHz. [*].
Quobuz provides audio quality FLAC up to 24 bit / 192 kHz [*].
Technically, Qobuz provides better sound quality. A streamed recording and your listening equipment do matter.
In the author's opinion, the best way is to try both services and make your own choice.
Read about high-quality streaming...
F.A.Q. MQA
Is MQA a DSD?
MQA is not DSD audio. Master Quality Authenticated is a compression method for PCM audio with some hardware additions.
Read more about MQA audio format...
Is MQA better than DSD?
MQA is one of PCM formats. We can compare them like DSD and PCM.
In contrast to Direct Stream Digital file formats, Master Quality Authenticated is not a bit-perfect format.
Read more...
Why does MQA sound better?
If MQA sounds better for you, we can suppose, that the reason lies in listened audio setup. Maybe personal preferences matters.
Recorded musical instrument kit and mixing/postproduction character may be relevant to the listener perception.
As the author knows:
- MQA is not lossless in "bit-perfect" meaning;
- This technology uses apodizing filters;
- Such filters are not ideal ones for resampling.
However, it is a compression format, specially designed for hi-fi applications. The technology saves traffic for audiophile streaming comparing FLAC.
Read more...
Can you stream MQA over Bluetooth?
To stream MQA via Bluetooth, lossless 16 bit/44.1 kHz ability is needed.
Technically, aptX Lossless codec supports it. However, some details may be there. In instance, bit-perfect transfer from MQA music file to MQA DAC's input should be provided. Loudness volume should be altered inside the DAC, after MQA decoding.
Read more...
Where can I buy MQA music?
Look at the sites where you can buy MQA music...
Is DSD better than MQA?
In the first approach, DSD and MQA may be compared like DSD and PCM. However, DSD is a lossless format and MQA is high-qualitative lossy one.
Read more...
Read more
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How to ex
tract ISO -
How to con
vert DSF -
How to con
vert DFF -
DSF vs DFF vs SACD ISO (in
fo gra phic) -
DSF vs DFF (de
tails) - DSD DAC
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