Does DSD have to convert to DXD for mixing or mastering?

Saturday, November 12, 2022 - 08:59

Does DSD have to convert to DXD for mixing or mastering?

Because our home base is a DSD recording, mixing and mastering facility we decided to do the most thorough tests we could and offer files for you to decide for yourself.

The test wasn’t created to say one method of working in the studio was better than another, but for us and for you to decide for yourself what you think.

The files will be available on Wednesday, November 16, 2022 to download. Included in the download package will be six large files of one song for you to listen to and compare.

WARNING! To play these files requires a DSD and DXD DAC!

https://bluecoastmusic.com/dsd-workshop-1

Do not purchase these files without the proper gear!

Please read your manufacturer's specifications as to whether you can hear DSD256 and DXD354.2. You won’t be able to hear the files otherwise. No refunds will be available after the files have been put into your account.

What’s included in the package?

We’ve uncovered some unusual findings while doing the test that have never been mentioned and we’re waiting on manufacturers' answers. Because of this, we’ve decided to give you all the files we created to provide a thorough test that a mastering engineer would want. The files you’ll receive will be:

Deck the Halls - mastered through analog systems to DSD256
Deck the Halls - mastered through analog systems to DXD352.8
Deck the Halls - mastered through analog systems to DXD352.8 converted to DSD256 (down 1db to match test tone in DSD256)
Deck the Halls - mastered through analog systems to DXD352.8
Deck the Halls - mastered through analog systems to DXD352.8 converted to DSD256 (down 1db to match test tone in DSD256)
Deck the Halls - original source file provided as 176.4 (approx 2db louder than our DSD remastering).

We’ll also include a list of gear for the entire recording chain and a $25 Gift coupon toward purchase of items at BlueCoastMusic.com

Also, we’d like to thank Laurence Juber for allowing us to use his recordings for our tests.

We are working on a thorough White Paper to present

Expected to be completed in early 2023

Not all engineers agree how DSD can be mixed or mastered

We consider it part of the ‘artform’ that a producer chooses his tools and methods just as a painter like Picasso might choose his brand of paint or the brushes used to apply the paint in his art.

Not everyone will have equipment to hear the differences in these files. We don’t expect everyone to have the same opinions if you do hear the differences. You can probably guess what we preferred.

The point of these tests isn’t to change anyone’s mind or methods of working or listening but to celebrate the fact that we can hear differences and all our listening systems are not the same.

Laurence Juber - Deck the Halls (track)

https://bluecoastmusic.com/dsd-workshop-1

Holidays and Hollynights - Laurence Juber

https://bluecoastmusic.com/laurence-juber/holidays-and-hollynights

Laurence Juber is a stunningly masterful acoustic guitar player. You might remember his playing with Paul McCartney and Wings or from his many solo guitar albums. This album is full of holiday spirits!