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The RNDAC is capable of PCM and DSD playback. PCM (Pulse-Code-Modulation) is by far the most common form of
digitally encoded music, however, DSD (Direct-Stream-Digital) is enjoying increased attention from the hi-fi community.
Both formats approach audio encoding with different methodologies, and each format has its supporters. It was im-
portant that we built in the capability for high-quality PCM and DSD playback within the RNDAC, ultimately allowing the
user to decide which format they prefer.
Based on our testing, we recommend using JRiver Media Center for DSD playback. We found, overall, that JRiver Media
Center performed most reliably on Windows and Mac at all DSD rates, in most cases requiring minimal additional soft-
ware configuration. Other media players may require additional preference configuration for DSD playback.
The RNDAC’s Filter Options are available on the rear-panel five (5) position dip-switch. The feature is ON when the dip-
switch is in the DOWN position. There are three separate filter options: Slow Roll-Off, Super-Slow Roll-Off and Sharp Roll-
Off (see frequency response graphs on pg. 19-20). In addition to three filter modes, Switch 2 allows the user to switch
between two different Group Delay modes (short vs. standard). Switch 4 allows the user to toggle AKM’s “High-Quality
Sound” mode ON/OFF and Switch 5 picks between the low or high-pole filter for DSD playback. The RNDAC’s available
digital mode combinations are shown below:
Slow Roll-Off
Slow Roll-Off
Sharp Roll-Off
Standard Group Delay
Super-Slow Roll-Off Short Group Delay Standard Group Delay
All Switches UP (Default) Switch 1 DOWN Switch 2 DOWN Switch 3 DOWN
Sharp Roll-Off
AKM “High-Quality Sound” DSD High Pole Short Group Delay
Switch 4 DOWN Switch 5 DOWN Switches 2 & 3 DOWN
All Switches UP (Default): Slow Roll-Off Filter, Standard Group Delay (PCM Only)
Switch 1: Super-Slow Roll-Off Filter (PCM Only)
Switch 2: Short Group Delay (PCM Only)
Switch 3: Sharp Roll-Off Filter (PCM Only)
Switch 4: AKM DAC “High-Quality Sound” Mode (PCM and DSD)
Switch 5: Low / High Pole DSD Filter (DSD Only)
DSD Playback
Digital Filter Options
