Why not DSD (SACD) audio instead of PCM?

[dobyblue]

Originally Posted by Manco

There is no sense in requiring BR player manufacturers to invest in PCM -> DSD (SACD) conversion in the players when everyone is so heavily invested in DVD already...which carries PCM.

I think you mean DSD > PCM conversion.
All SACD discs are in DSD format. The PS3 decimates DSD to 24/176.4 PCM up to 6 channels output through HDMI.

You can't get this sort of performance from most North American standalone SACD players.

There are several receivers that accept DSD natively through HDMI, but you need to verify the specs. The new Pioneer Elite VSX-91 does, all the new Onkyo HDMI 1.3 receivers from the TX-SR705 and up accept DSD.

I don't think native DSD output is coming anytime soon, but they did add CD upconversion so you never know.

In the meantime you can get an SACD/DVD-A player from Oppo for only US$169 that supports DSD out through HDMI.
http://www.oppodigital.com/dv980h/default.asp

Optimized high-fidelity audio circuitry

Taking inputs from audiovisual enthusiasts and world-famous high-fidelity audio equipment partners, OPPO designed the DV-980H with a focus on precision rendering from Super Audio CD, DVD-Audio, HDCD and regular CDs. Its digital-to-analog (D/A) converters feature 192kHz high sampling rate and 24-bit resolution. The driving stage uses carefully selected op-amps and capacitors. Combining these premium components in an optimized design, the DV-980H reduces quantization distortion and accurately reproduces the analog waveform, resulting in faithful, natural, detailed and rich sound.


HDMI v1.2a output with exceptional core video performance and high resolution audio support (multi-channel PCM and DSD™)

HDMI is an all digital interface for the cleanest possible connection. It delivers high-quality digital video and audio through a single cable. The DV-980H is among the very few players on the market that support HDMI v1.2a with multi-channel PCM and DSD audio, making it an ideal source device or digital transport for audiophiles.

In Europe you'll find DSD used natively a lot more often than in North America.