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The DSD analog-to-digital converter produces a one-bit pulse
train that appears remarkably analog. In this manner, DSD encoding
combines the
advantages of digital
recording with the
well-regarded
characteristics of
analog sound. For
recording artists,
producers and
engineers, DSD
technology is a
priceless new tool. For audiophiles, it’s a major step closer to
pure music.
Not surprisingly the DVP-S9000ES audio section makes
extensive use of technologies originally developed for the world’s
first SACD player, the Sony SCD-1. Here are the highlights.
1. RF Processor. For all types of disc, including DVD, this
circuit performs clock signal extraction, synchronization,
demodulation and error correction.
2. DSD Decoder. For SACD only. Authenticates the SACD
invisible watermark, separates text from music and forms the
left and right DSD pulse trains.
3. ACP System. For SACD only. Controls the influence of
switching distortion.
4. VC24 Plus Digital Filter. For CD only. A supremely
advanced version of the familiar 8x oversampling digital filter.
5. Current Pulse D/A Converter. For SACD and CD.
Supremely accurate conversion from 1-bit digital to analog.
6. Low Pass Filter. The SACD analog low pass filter helps
deliver frequency response to 100,000 Hz, unprecedented in a
home audio source component.
A Foundation for the Future
For nearly 30 years, digital audio has been based upon Pulse
Code Modulation (PCM) technology — and nobody knows PCM
better than Sony. We’ve used it to develop everything from
Compact Disc and DAT to professional DASH recorders and
digital mixing consoles. But to achieve a truly fundamental
breakthrough in music reproduction, Sony has invented a truly
amazing audio technology: Direct Stream Digital (DSD)
encoding. DSD encoding is destined to serve as the foundation
for digital audio in the future.
Even the most advanced PCM record/playback systems require
decimation and interpolation filters that can cause problems,
including requantization noise, passband ripple and ringing.
These degradations can smear musical overtones, muddy the
soundstage and compromise overall transparency. A radically
simpler approach, Direct Stream Digital processing eliminates
these problems by eliminating the filters! It enables a 1-bit
signal to be recorded directly.
Direct Stream Digital processing is dramatically different, even
when compared to the most sophisticated PCM technology. This
1-bit system encodes music at an astonishing 2,822,400 samples
per second. The result is more than just superb frequency
response and dynamic range. You’ll hear the inner detail of
choral ensembles. The reverberation trailing from a guitar chord.
And the acoustic space surrounding the instruments. With DSD
technology, you hear every nuance of sound reproduced with
incredible ease and clarity.
Simplifying the Signal Path
Beyond Comparison
The Digital Equivalent of Straight Wire with Gain
Fig. 15: In high-end audio, simplest is best. And compared to conventional PCM, the new DSD system is far simpler.
Overview of DSD Circuitry
Direct Stream Digital
TM
Encoding:
Fig.16: The Direct Stream Digital pulse train
“looks” remarkably like the analog waveform it
represents. More pulses point up as the wave goes
positive and down as the wave goes negative.