Custom audio transformers
Limited Edition units available now!
Our Signature Series PLUS on steroids.
For a limited time only.
With an upgraded pure copper AC inlet, Silver input wiring, Our discrete 5 Volt regulator, A 50% larger pre regulator cap. Upgraded post regulator cap, Additional post regulator cap, Hand-picked transformers.
For the audiophile who demands the very best.
Unbelievable clarity, dynamics and realism.
Our Modification Process
Category: |
Misc. |
{{variant.name}}:
|
{{opt.name}}
{{opt.name}}
|
Our Modification process:
In order to properly evaluate the modifications performed on these DAC’s it is necessary to have at least two DAC’s of the same. First, we take a pair of our best sounding modified DAC’s and A/B in real time to make sure they are identical in sound quality. Then we perform a single modification on one. For example, we install our APS R2 transformers from the original APS transformers in one of them and then do the A/B comparisons. If it’s an improvement we do the same to the other unit and move forward. We repeat this process and do a DC offset adjustment and then the A/B comparison. We do this for all modifications. When we do modifications that make no difference we return it back to the previous state and move to the next modification. We have several experienced listeners do these listening test over several weeks so we all are very sure before moving forward. We also compare our best sounding unit to other very high-end DAC’s to make sure the change we made are good ones that everyone likes and agrees on. We do a lot of measurements along the way to make sure nothing sneaks by us and we can verify we are on track with the modifications that make no difference and ones that do. This process can take months. It took us almost a year to develop the new Rev.2 transformers and our super low impedance discrete analog power supply in the PLUS units.
Modifications we found that make no difference in sound quality in the Directstream MK1 are listed below.
AC inlet RF filter removal (LC) (You can bypass this with one that has no filter if you install the filter on PC board) This was also an FCC requirement to keep from contaminating other equipment. We have found this makes no difference in sound quality if the filter is in spec. We recently discovered that some of these are out of spec and needs replaced. We will replace them with ether our pure copper units (recommended) or a known good filter type. The MK2 has the filter on the PC board, not the inlet.
Note: this list could change based on new available products or devices. We are constantly seeking ways to improve sound quality.
Modifications that make the biggest improvements.
Modifications that make little difference however worth doing.
Of course, high end input and AC cables and fuses of your choice to fine tune for your liking.
We hope this helps clear up our process of upgrading and modifications to the Directstream DAC's so our customers get the best sound quality possible.
To see the measurements of the standard vs the Signature Series PLUS, click on the photos in this section.
In the process of making these MK1 upgrades even better we sometimes have customers that feel we left them out with the older upgrades.
We have decided to give our past customers a discount on newer upgrades we discover. Just ask.
APS
We are located in the Baltimore / Washington area