Super Audio CD uses a new and radically different technology called Direct Stream Digital (DSD) to convert music into a digital signal that can be stored on a disc. Compared to the traditional PCM method (the technology used for CD), DSD offers a much higher resolution by following more closely the original wave form of music. With a frequency response of over 100kHz and a dynamic range over 120dB across the audible frequency range – some 64 times higher resolution then CD - Super Audio CD offers music reproduction that reveals details you just can’t hear on a normal CD.

The Direct Stream Digital pulse train "looks" remarkably like the analog waveform it represents. More pulses point up as the wave goes positive and down as the wave goes negative.

The DVD-Audio is a alternative method for listening to music at a much higher quality than your standard CD's.

You can transfer SACD from a DVD player to a amplifier via 6 phono cables or using IEEE1394-output (Digital Audio).

For all the advantages that CDs have provided over the years (crisp digital sound, compact format, no cleaning required), many listeners continue to complain about the lack of warmth in CD sound. The introduction of SACD finally provides the transcendent home audio environment that many of us have been waiting for.

Direct Stream Digital is the secret ingredient
At the heart of SACD is the Direct Stream Digital (DSD) recording technique, which applies dramatic new levels of accuracy to digital recording. Originally created to digitally archive priceless analog master tapes, DSD uses 1-bit delta-sigma modulation and a sampling frequency 64x higher than CD. SACD also provides a frequency response of 100kHz and a dynamic range of 120dB across the audible range, leading to very accurate reproduction of original source material (CD is limited to 22.05kHz and a dynamic range of 96dB). The result is sound that is nearly free of distortion and signal noise, so you'll hear music that is remarkably faithful to the original performance.

360-degree sound is the answer
Played over an SACD player and surround sound system, SACD discs can create a 360-degree listening experience that can only be topped by a live performance. But don't think of surround sound as some gimmick that merely swirls sound effects around your head. It is, rather, an expression of musical realism that recording engineers have always hoped to achieve.

With 6 channels to work with and the ability to separate instruments and voices with remarkable clarity, many engineers will experiment and create intoxicating ways to lay out sound within a room. Others may use the extra channels to more faithfully reproduce the precise acoustic signature of the original performance space. Either way, it means a home listening experience that'll inspire and surprise in a way standard CD never could.

SACD Discs
Keep in mind that there are four possible configurations of SACD discs, which can be somewhat confusing initially. However, you'll find each SACD disc labeled with a sticker clearly explaining which type it is. Basically, you'll find single-layer discs that can only be played on a SACD player (for optimal sound) — and hybrid discs which can also be played on conventional CD players (making it the format of choice for many SACD releases).