JK Richards PS Audio DSD MKI transformer upgrade


I sent my PS Audio DSD MKI to JK Richards to be fitted with the upgraded nickel transformers and VOCM caps. Should be arriving today. Will follow up with a comparison review  once the upgraded DAC settles in. 

Here is a link to the lengthy thread covering the evolution of the PS Audio DSD mods.

https://forum.psaudio.com/t/modding-the-directstream-dac-mki/2680

gme109

Look what happens when you have high (over 2mv) DC offset feeding the transformers.

The Limited Edition upgrade for Directstream has gained significant popularity this year. Last week, we barely managed to maintain our 2-day turnaround. Working 18 hours daily, including weekends.

We have also updated our customer reviews.

Thank You!

Elevating the MK2 Upgrade: A New Benchmark in Sound Quality

Building upon the success of our Limited Edition upgrades—now exceeding even the sound quality of the newer modified MK2—we have embarked on a mission to elevate the MK2 enhancements to an entirely new level. Our focus has been on refining the power supply, a critical element in achieving pristine audio performance.

Through extensive research and testing, we determined that the existing regulators and rectification components, credited to the expertise of Ted Smith, already represent the pinnacle of quality and efficiency. Nevertheless, we identified an opportunity for further improvement by introducing a dedicated R-Core transformer specifically for the analog board power supply. This strategic addition has yielded noticeable enhancements in sound clarity and overall performance, confirming that even the best systems can benefit from thoughtful refinement.

Additionally, we addressed a common issue in the digital board’s power supply: the need for a reboot following power glitches. By increasing the capacitance in this section, we have effectively eliminated this inconvenience, ensuring uninterrupted and reliable operation even under unstable power conditions.

We are currently finalizing these upgrades to ensure it meets the highest standards of reliability and sonic excellence. Soon, this enhanced power supply configuration will be available to discerning audiophiles seeking the ultimate listening experience from their MK2 systems.

In summary, while the foundational power components remain exemplary, the integration of a dedicated R-Core transformer for the analog section marks a significant step forward. This upgrade underscores our commitment to pushing the boundaries of audio fidelity, promising users a richer, more immersive soundstage. Stay tuned for the release of this exciting advancement that continues to redefine what the MK2 upgrade can achieve.

In the pursuit of optimal audio performance, we have taken the meticulous approach of designing and building our own regulator circuits tailored specifically for digital-to-analog converters (DACs). This bespoke engineering effort extends to the creation of large custom power supply transformers, crafted to meet the unique demands of these critical components.

Ultimately, this integrated design strategy—combining purpose-built regulator circuits with robust, tailored power transformers—ensures that the critical components of our DAC systems receive the optimal power they require. The result is enhanced audio fidelity, greater dynamic range, and an overall improvement in the listening experience, demonstrating the significant benefits of custom engineering in advanced electronic design.

Advancements in Audio Transformer Technology for Superior Sound Reproduction.

Continuing R&D on audio transformers brings you closer to reality in sound reproduction.

New style APS transformers.