Firmware updates and fixes for the new Directstream MK2

The v 2.5.1 is the software for the user interface. The FPGA load Antero 208 is the part that affects the sound quality. Ted builds the FPGA loads while Barry Solway does the UI programming.

I have created a “cheat sheet” for the menu system in the DS firmware 2.5.0 (PDF format). I find it easier to have one piece of paper to look when standing in front of the DAC than the entire manual (whose organization is not always completely clear). If anyone would like a copy, PM me. I could post a share link to the file on my iDrive account, but I wasn’t sure if that is considered OK on this forum.

Edit: since @elk has now given his blessing, here is the share link: https://www.idrive.com/idrive/sh/sh?k=j6t9x4b8l7

Please let me know if you spot any errors or anything that is not clear. I prepared the file as carefully as I could, but gremlins sometimes creep in.

I installed FW 2.5.1 and FPGA 208 without issues this morning. The SQ is great, but I also added different type of footers under the amps. So, I am not sure how much the improvement was from updates vs. footers. It is probably from both.

Even my tired jet-lag ears can tell.

You won’t find anything in the interface that tells you that since the delivery format doesn’t make any difference to how the Mk2 processes the data. Based on Ted’s previous comments, this is literally true, since the first thing the Mk2 does when it receives a DSD stream is convert it to DoP.

Understand but thought mki indicated, via the display, one way or the other. Thanks!

Not true a cappella; if you can find the Manhattan Transfer “Off Beat of Avenues” CD or streaming, you’ll be in for a treat!

I keep a flag for the UI from the I2S to DoP converter. The Mk I displays DoP as appropriate. PS audio is sharing code between products and their other DACs don’t display DoP so it was an oversight that the Mk II doesn’t. It’s obviously lower priority than other things at the moment.

Posting a share link to the pdf file on your iDrive account sounds ok to me.

Looks great! Thank you!

Looks like your guide is in high demand; I couldn’t get your file because downloads have been maxed out at the link you posted.

Interesting (and sorry for the frustration). I have a paid account at iDrive, not the basic free one, but I’m not sure what the download limits are for share links.

I viewed it on iPhone and then the iPhone downloaded even though iCloud said limit. Press and hold the link and you can open the view to download.

Did the same on my M2 MacBook Air and it downloaded fine. Thanks!

It turns out that iDrive has a maximum download of 25, which apparently has been reached.

I generated a new link to reset the clock. Someone let me know if these get used up. New link: https://www.idrive.com/idrive/sh/sh?k=o2k9s3v6o6

Thank you for your efforts to help!

New link already maxed out in 25 minutes

Wow! I need to get some sleep now, but I will put up a new link first thing in the morning.

Here is a new share link for the DS menu setup PDF: https://www.idrive.com/idrive/sh/sh?k=z6y9v6b1j2 . We’ll see how long this one lasts!

Thank you for doing this. Very helpful!

did 2.5.1 and Antero 208 disappear ?