[jdandy]

Originally Posted by PlanarSpeakerFan

The new Esoteric K-03X handles DSD via USB input. The K-03 does not but is upgradeable through the manufacturer. The McIntosh MCD-1100 does not and is also discontinued.

Ken.......The Esoteric K-03 does handle DSD. It's called SACD and it is fabulous.

All the hoopla about DSD over USB doesn't get my juices flowing at all. Unless and until there is a DSD catalog large enough and worthy enough to pique my interest I will remain on the sidelines. Then there is the gargantuan file sizes. Quite honestly, I view DSD downloaded files as a passing fancy created and designed to separate us from additional cash by purchasing new hardware, software, and duplicating already existing music in our libraries. Most of the largely uninteresting DSD downloads currently available were not originally recorded in DSD.

Digital format wars are beginning to make me tune out. Between Blu-ray audio, DVD audio, Dolby Hi-res, DSD, DXD, MQA, and who knows what else is on the drawing board, it's getting to be too murky. The perceived benefits of one file storage compression scheme over another has as many supporters as detractors on both sides. I prefer to store my CD's and high-res FLAC files on a music server and spin my SACD's on a transport. Simple, easy, relaxing, without all the complications of format, playback compatibility, software and hardware configuration, and multiple components being touted to make it all happen. It is becoming exhusting. I just want to enjoy music.