topic Re: DSD support not working in XZ Series

DSD support not working

Evicmar — Wed, 26 Oct 2016 20:21:42 GMT

So, I picked up some dual layer DSD files from HDTracks.com and am able to play them on computer. When I loaded them to my Xperia XZ it says "cannot play". Before purchasing the files I had asked support what levels of DSD file my Xperia XZ would play, Single(2.8), Dual(5.6), or Quad(11.2)? The reply I got back was as long as it was a .dsf or .dff file it should play. Please help me get my .dsf files playing on my Xperia XZ.

Re: DSD support not working

Uliwooly — Wed, 26 Oct 2016 20:58:48 GMT

http://support.sonymobile.com/global-en/xperiaxz/supportDocumentation/

page 16 of the white paper

Decode format

DSD

suported in file format

DSF (.dsf), DSDIFF (.dff)

Re: DSD support not working

CameronT — Wed, 26 Oct 2016 23:49:19 GMT

Hi @Evicmar,

Welcome to the community. I am sorry to hear you're having trouble playing DSD files.

As a test is it possible for you to try another music app from the Play Store? One that supports DSD files? I want to see if the issue is with the phone or the app.

Re: DSD support not working

Evicmar — Thu, 27 Oct 2016 01:31:35 GMT

HibyMusic is also saying music not supported. The files play fine on my computer that I am transfering from.

Re: DSD support not working

CameronT — Thu, 27 Oct 2016 02:14:32 GMT

@Evicmar,

Do you know if the files have DRM that prevent you from playing them on other devices?

Re: DSD support not working

Evicmar — Thu, 27 Oct 2016 03:12:47 GMT

Nothing from HDTracks has DRM. You have the option of getting the same files in WAV format upto 192/24 which does not support any DRM.

I just tried a software repair to see if that helps and the same problem.

Re: DSD support not working

CameronT — Thu, 27 Oct 2016 03:24:43 GMT

@Evicmar,

I see. The last thing I can suggest would be to try it on another, third device, and see if the same issue persists. If it is working on both PC and another device, it would seem that these tracks are simply not compatible with the XZ. While it does support DSD it may have a limitation on the bitrate that I am not aware of as yet.

Re: DSD support not working

Evicmar — Thu, 27 Oct 2016 03:30:56 GMT

My Windows PC is where I can play DSD files. On my Mac, I have a program called pro audio tools that will convert DSD files into other formats. I just converted the file I got off my Xperia XZ through Xperia Companion from DSD5.6 to m4a and it plays just fine. The source file is good and there is no encryption or I would not be listening to the converted file right now. This is purely a Phone issue of the Xperia. Any other suggestions would be welcome.

Re: DSD support not working

CameronT — Thu, 27 Oct 2016 03:48:46 GMT

@Evicmar,

It would seem like that is the case. We will have to investigate this further, as I cannot think of any solutions just yet. Hopefully there are some other users here who have experienced this and have a solution, but I cannot find it if that is the case.

I apologise for the inconvenience this causes you.

Re: DSD support not working

Evicmar — Wed, 02 Nov 2016 02:46:21 GMT

I just got a .dsf file that is single DSD(2.8) and it plays. This Phone does not support any DSD files that are Dual(5.6) or Quad(11.2). You may want to update the spec page on the website.

Re: DSD support not working

ClarkLong — Thu, 03 Nov 2016 03:12:07 GMT

Nothing wrong with product page as it says DSD compatible... it means DSD at its "basic" 2.8 level. That's more the support that needs an update

If you want to enjoy double, quad DSD (and even DSD) you need to buy a proper DAP to be able to enjoy it. Smartphone are not meant for that and it's quite ridiculous...

From Sony you should have a look at the new walkman signature series that allows you to really enjoy DSD (up to Quad) natively: NW-WM1A/Z

Actual ZX2 and ZX100 can play up to double DSD only but will surely do it wayyyyyyy better than your XZ.

If you want more, up to Octa DSD, Sony just released an amp/dac TA-ZH1ES

Re: DSD support not working

Evicmar — Fri, 02 Dec 2016 04:11:20 GMT

I'd like to have known before purchasing though. It seems like the product page would eliminate having to go through tech support to get that answer. I have found some software that downsamples the DSD to single layer so I'm golden on it. I'm actually quite surprised at how good the XZ does sound for a phone on my Grado SR 80e and B&W P7. I would love to be able to hear a sample song or two on the new walkman models. I have been keeping an eye out for the NW-WM1A walkman to be released. Website still shows available soon.

Re: DSD support not working

twain55 — Tue, 23 Jan 2018 04:34:46 GMT

I own the X and I had some dual DSD files that won't work natively.. I downloaded the onkyo Player from the play store, and it does the job.