PS Audio PerfectWave Transport and PerfectWave DAC

The next generation in digital separates? We think so. This unique new transport (top) and DAC from PS Audio were shown in prototype form. Pricing is yet to be determined, but the company reports that delivery in the first quarter of 2009 is targeted.

The transport uses an HDMI cable for output of digital data to the DAC via the I²S data-transmission protocol. The PerfectWave Transport is also reportedly compatible with 24-bit/192kHz data, such as that for Reference Recordings' HRx files.

The PerfectWave DAC will feature six digital inputs, including the HDMI I²S connection. One point of interest Paul McGowan filled us in on was the Native Resolution setting, whereby the DAC bypasses upsampling and plays back music in whatever input resolution it detects. This is in contrast to many devices that automatically upsample the input signal (the PerfectWave DAC can do that too, if you like). The PerfectWave DAC has a built-in volume control for direct drive of your power amplifier, and it is capable of accepting a 96kHz signal through its USB input. Oh, and did we mention it can connect wirelessly to your music server?

PS Audio's implementation of I²S is unique. It uses eight separate conductors of the HDMI cable for, what PS Audio claims, is the most technically advanced transmission of data through I²S yet available in an audiophile product.

Both PerfectWave units have a front-mounted touch-screen display for control. PS Audio developed its own graphical user interface.

PS Audio president Paul McGowan demonstrates some of the PerfectWave Transport's and DAC's features to members of the SoundStage! Network team, who were lining up to write about these products.