DSD

DSD (Direct Stream Digital) is a high-resolution digital audio format developed by Sony and Philips for SACD. Unlike PCM, it is based on 1-bit delta-sigma modulation at a very high sampling frequency: 2.8224 MHz for DSD64, followed by DSD128, DSD256, and DSD512, i.e. multiples of 64 times the CD frequency.

This approach shifts quantization noise outside the audible band and preserves extended bandwidth as well as high dynamic range. Playback requires a DSD-compatible DAC, in native mode or via DoP (DSD over PCM) over USB. The sound reproduction stands out for its analog-like texture and fluid transients, sought after for listening to classical music and jazz from DSD masters.