What the hell is DSD?
DSD is an acronym for Direct Stream Digital, which is the encoding format used by SACDs. SACDs will not output DSD, due to licensing restrictions. However, some recordings are now available in DSD format, which can be played from a PC or Mac via USB. This DAC decodes DSD.
Where can I get some of this DSD stuff?
2L
Acoustic Sounds
Blue Coast
Channel Classics
Downloads Now
DSDfile.com
High Definition Tape Transfers
HighResAudio
I thought you guys weren’t so hot on DSD?
One of the big reasons we weren’t thrilled about DSD is the fact that the decoding requirements for DSD are very different than PCM—which dictates a different output stage, notch filters, etc. Mixing the two in a single DAC would require compromises on one or both—or heroic design workarounds that would increase cost significantly. So we decided to do it as a separate box—and, in the process, create a product that can add DSD to any DAC, not just our own.
So I can use this with Bifrost?
Of course. You can also use it with Modi, Gungnir, or any other DAC. To use a DAC with RCA outputs with Loki's built-in switching system, just hook up the output of your current DAC to Loki. Listen to DSD via Loki, and press the front-panel button when you want to listen to PCM via your current DAC.
Wait. I can use Loki with any DAC?
Right.
Are you saying I can add true DSD capability to any DAC for $149?
Yes. You aren’t so hot on this “comprehension” thing, are you?
Holy schiit!
Technically, that’s not a question, but yes.
Can I use Loki with a Raspberry Pi for streaming?
Yes, Loki works with RaspyFi for the Raspberry Pi to create an inexpensive DSD server.
Can I use Loki with all of my music, including non-DSD music, AKA PCM?
Yes, you can convert all your music to DSD on the fly with JRiver and Foobar if you want to use Loki as your only DAC.
Well, hell, this thing can’t sound any good, it’s only $149.
Actually, Loki sounds better than a lot of DSD decoders, even megabuck ones. Why? Because we’re not trying to decode both DSD and PCM with the same DAC and filter stage. Loki is optimized for one thing, and one thing only: to decode DSD.
Yeah, but is it really DSD, or are you converting to PCM?
Yes, Virginia, it’s really DSD. Loki accepts the DSD over PCM (DoP) USB packet spec, where real DSD is sent over USB without conversion to PCM. It then unpacks and reassembles the actual, bit-for-bit perfect DSD datastream with custom Schiit code implemented on a 32-bit Microchip controller. Yes, this is our own proprietary solution, developed in-house for this specific use. No, we aren’t a bunch of boobs in a garage, like some people want you to think.
What players does Loki work with?
On the Mac, Audirvana, JRiver, and Pure Music. On the PC, Foobar and JRiver. These are the ones we’ve tested and confirmed to work. Others may also work, but we make no guarantees. Expect to spend plenty of time setting up your PC to run right with DSD. Sorry, complain to Microsoft about their crap support for audio.
If I've already got a USB DAC, how do I connect Loki?
With another USB cable. You'll have a USB cable running to your current DAC, and another to Loki. Loki reports as "Schiit DSD Audio Device," with a different USB ID, so there's no problem running both, say, a Schiit USB DAC and a Loki. You can run the output of your current USB DAC through Loki for switching convenience. On your computer, you can switch between DACs using your player software (usually.)
Can I use Loki with an SACD player?
Nope, SACD players output only PCM. Thank Sony and their copy protection. We think Sony and Microsoft have secret meetings about how they can make life more difficult for audiophiles.
What about DSD128 and DSD256 and DXD and other audiophile unicorn formats out there?
We hear you, but first, let’s see if those unicorn formats ever get more than, say, 27 recordings available. Recordings that people want to listen to, that is. If that happens, there’s no reason we can’t make a bigger badder add-on box with, say, DSD 2X and balanced in/out.
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