I do not use Roon. I use HQ Player to convert ALL sources to DSD 256. FLAC and DSD files are from local machine through HQ Player library. But sources like Spotify, Youtube, any websites with media all are routed through VB-Cable's HiFi cable into HQ Player which upsample them to DSD 256. I have the T+A DAC 200 and it loved DSD feeds.
anyone using Roon to convert PCM to DSD? it sounds a lot different and maybe better
I always felt leaving files in their Native format was best. I also did not think using Roon sounded better than not using Roon, Roon offers a lot of cool features such as integrating your stored files and researching artists, looking for different versions of songs, etc. but I didn’t think it was worth the money.
I learned about a DIY streaming setup using Raspberry Pi computers. I’m NOT a computer geek, and it was not difficult to implement. I don’t think it’s been discussed in this forum - https://audiophilestyle.com/forums/topic/71280-diy-a-three-tier-roon-endpoint-with-diretta-on-raspberry-pi/#comments
I feel like the sound quality of this setup provides an incredible value for the money, but the way it’s implemented does require Roon.
So anyway - back to the topic. Roon offers what I call "tone controls" in addition to their Parametric EQ function (which in itself can be useful) . These are in the "Sample rate conversion" functions.
I started experimenting with the PCM to DSD conversion and I’m quite surprised with what I’m hearing. This effect may be DAC dependent (I’m using a Gustard x26Pro). I’m playing a track called "Roach" by jazz pianist Larry Goldngs which is a 96kHZ, 24 bit file and switching from Native to "Roon converted" DSD512 and the difference in depth and soundstage in my room is startling.
Now I find I’m pretty much always leaving the conversion on all the time.
I haven’t gone over the Roon forum on this - I’m not sure it’s a very welcoming place but I like the vibe here.
Curious to know if anyone here has tried this.
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Thank you for the album recommendation by jazz pianist Larry Goldngs. I found this album on QoBuz and like it very much. I am using Audirvana software running on an Infigo Audio Steamer Model IS-1 connected to my Schiit YGGY+ LIM DAC. I previously tested PCM to DSD Audirvana conversion using a BRICASTI M21 DAC and did not like it. Obviously, it seems, everyone has a different opinion of what sounds good. |
@hgeifman I think it depends on the DAC and probably the conversion software glad you liked the album - I got the recommendation from Stereophile magazine it's a great hobby! |
I have been doing comparisons using Roon, Topping d90III Sabre DAC, a Cambridge mxn10 streamer, and several PC-based end points. Still playing but… Best combo so far: PC WASAPI using DSD over PCM over USB to Topping . Lovely! mxn10 DSD over PCM over coax SPDIF to Topping is right behind. In clear 3rd place: mxn10 DSD over PCM (DoP) to internal DAC (no Topping). I also tried PC ASIO using native DSD over USB to Topping. Very constrained compared to others not even close.
Each combo sounds clearly different in a/b tests. YMMV .
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@jc4659 why does a better DDC not provide galvanic isolation but an inexpensive one does? I was using a Douk Audio DDC and I'm auditioning a Gustard U18 at the moment |
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