DirectStream Memory Player and DAC
Best high-end digital system for audiophiles with extensive physical media collections.
The PS Audio DirectStream Memory Player (DMP) and accompanying DAC offer cost-no-object digital audio performance in a more approachable package, priced significantly lower than ultra-high-end competitors. The DMP utilizes a modified OPPO transport mechanism, stripped of all video circuitry, allowing it to spin physical media like SACDs and DVD-Audio discs. The DirectStream DAC employs FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf chips for software-controlled upsampling and decoding, ensuring future proofing. When paired, the system delivers exceptional resolution, detailed bass, effortless highs, and a natural, homogenous sound quality that excels with both physical discs and digital files.
$5999.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
33
/ 239
#33 in CD Players & Recorders
Price vs Category Average
+30%
Above average
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking a natural, analog-like listening experience
- Listeners wanting long-term value through evolving firmware updates
- Purists demanding precise, jitter-free digital signal transmission
Who should skip it
- Collectors needing a versatile player for Blu-ray or DVD-Audio
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for entry-level audio solutions
- Modern listeners requiring seamless, out-of-the-box network streaming
Performance breakdown
DSD Playback Fidelity
Direct I2S streaming captures the full nuance of SACD recordings.
Future-Proofing
FPGA architecture allows for ongoing software-based performance upgrades.
Build Integrity
Hand-built in Colorado with robust, high-end internal components.
Source Versatility
Handles physical discs and digital files with equal sonic authority.
System Integration
High-quality digital volume control eliminates the need for a preamp.
Transport Reliability
Modified Oppo mechanism ensures consistent playback and easy future maintenance.
Key Specs
Transport mechanism based on an OPPO Blu-ray unit with all video circuitry removed.
DAC utilizes FPGA (field programmable gate arrays) for software-controlled upsampling and decoding.
DAC supports direct DSD stream reading via I2S bus through HDMI when paired with DMP.
DAC features high-quality digital volume control and line level circuitry.
DAC includes six digital inputs
Coax, XLR, Optical, USB, and two I2S.
Optional Network Bridge card available for $899, adding Ethernet access.
Both units are hand built in PS Audio’s factory in Boulder, Colorado.
DAC features fully balanced circuitry and transformer coupled outputs.
Features
- Provides cost-effective access to high-end digital audio performance.
- Future-proof design due to software-controlled FPGA implementation in the DAC.
- Enables direct reading of DSD bitstream from SACD discs when paired.
- I2S connection separates data and clock signals for a more lifelike musical rendition.
- DAC can function without a separate preamp due to high-quality digital volume control.
- Transport ensures ready availability of replacement mechanisms due to Oppo sourcing.
- Allows users to easily enjoy physical media collections without constant system fiddling.
- Universal compatibility with various digital sources including UPNP, NAS, and ROON.
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the DirectStream components for delivering truly exceptional sound quality, often describing the audio as natural and analog like. Reviewers frequently highlight the transformative effect on their digital music libraries. While the price point is high, users feel the performance justifies the investment, viewing it as a long term centerpiece for serious listening. The ongoing support and firmware updates also contribute significantly to high satisfaction, reinforcing the product's premium quality and lasting value.
Know before you buy
Unlike traditional DACs that rely on fixed-function chips, the DirectStream uses FPGA technology. This allows PS Audio to update the internal software, ensuring your device remains current as new decoding standards or performance improvements are released.
Yes. The DAC features a high-quality digital volume control and robust line-level circuitry, allowing it to function as a preamp. This eliminates the need for an extra component in your signal chain.
The I2S connection separates the data and clock signals, which significantly reduces jitter. When paired with the DMP, this allows for the direct reading of the DSD bitstream from SACDs for a more precise, lifelike sound.
The transport is based on a modified OPPO mechanism with all video circuitry removed. Because these units were widely used and sourced, replacement parts remain readily available, making long-term maintenance straightforward.
The DAC includes six digital inputs for various sources, but it does not have built-in network streaming by default. You can add Ethernet access and network compatibility by installing the optional Network Bridge card.
The DMP is designed as a universal transport that handles CDs, SACDs, and DVD-Audio discs. By stripping away the video processing found in standard players, it focuses entirely on extracting the highest quality audio data from your physical collection.
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$5999