Modding the PS Audio Directstream DAC MK1 and MK2

There is nothing to worry about however there is 4 heat sinks, two of which are not being used or at least not very much (without the Bridge installed) and do not get hot.  By installing a heat spreading material between these heat sinks distributes the heat more evenly.  I have used M.2 heat spreading material.

Just gently spread the heat sinks slightly apart and slide the heat sink pad (for a M.2) it between the heat sinks. I held the heat sinks together with a U shaped metal spring wire I made up.

Speaking of heat sink heat, I had to replace the transformer in a Mk1 this past week. But the original is a custom unit rated 8v secondaries, 2 x 25VA and not available. I chose an off the shelf 6V rated out 2 x 25VA unit and tg it's working fine, with less heat across the linear regs too of course. It's actually delivering about 7.4V AC V out in mine. The original toroid has a band shield, and there was room in there to wrap a band shield around the new one. I went with this one: Triad- VPT12_4170

TK

And may I ask, do we have any schematic info on the Mk2? Output section in particular? Thanks, TK

No schematics on the MK2.

Good to know you found a good replacement power transformer.

Thanks for the info.

I'm curious what properties nickel has that gives it an advantage over iron transformers? I still can't believe how much better the PS Audio DSD MKI sounds after replacing the off the shelf transformers with nickel transformers and upgrading the caps.