PerfectWave DirectStream MK2 DAC W/ Shanling ET3 transport

Audio Components DACs
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I just picked up the Shanling ET3 Digital Transport. Great little unit, even though the price seems to have increased since its initial release.

I have this unit connected to my PerfectWave DirectStream MK2 DAC using i2S (AudioQuest Carbon).

  1. I am unable to upsample to DSD512; I can only go up to DSD256. Materials and reviewers claim 512 is supported via USB and i2S.
  2. The display on the MK2 only indicates that it’s on the input i2S 1 and does not show the sample rate coming into the device. I’ve ensured the correct settings are in place, and the unit displays the sampling rate when I listen to my Lumin U2 mini via USB.

I was curious whether anyone else has experienced this or has any advice.

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  1. I looked in the Directstream Mk2 DAC manual and I don’t see any reference to DSD512 --only DSD256 and below:
    I2S: PCM 16 and 24 bits at 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz,
    96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 352.8kHz, and 705.6; DoP64,
    DoP128, DoP256, DSD64, DSD128, and DSD256
    USB: PCM 16 and 24 bits at 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz,
    96kHz, 176.4kHz, 192kHz, 352.8kHz, and 705.6; DoP64,
    DoP128, DoP256, DSD64, DSD128, and DSD256.
    Which materials are saying DSD512?
  2. Is the dot showing red as well? I’ve seen this with other PS Audio DACs – it is sync’d and sounds just fine but there must be an incompatibility with Shanling drives when connected via !2S that throws off the display.
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Hey @BruceAB , first, thanks for taking the time to read and reply to my post!

You are correct! Sorry, given how much was boasted about the MK2’s DSD-forward design at its release, I never thought to actually check the DAC’s limitations :face_with_crossed_out_eyes: .

And yes, the red dot is showing as well, and it sounds fantastic. Perhaps I’ll shoot Shanling a message and see if they know why the data handoff might be throwing it off.

Thanks again!

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I have a Shanling also, do you like I2S over USB with 256? Standard cd playback I feel it is equal to the PST over I2S.

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I haven’t tried the USB yet, as I have a Lumin U2 mini that’s currently using the MK2’s single USB port. After I get a bit more used to the sound, I’ll give it a try. I used to have a Jay’s Audio CDT2-MK3 connected to a Denafrips Venus 15, and I preferred the sound of the Coax connection over the I2S, but I have a hard time articulating why.