PS Audio PerfectWave SACD Disc Transport

The PS Audio PerfectWave SACD Transport is a high-performance optical disc transport designed to extract the maximum amount of information from CD, SACD and compatible data discs. Developed as PS Audio’s most advanced optical disc transport, the PerfectWave SACD Transport combines advanced digital processing with a galvanically isolated output stage designed to separate the digital audio circuitry from sources of electrical noise and contamination.

A defining feature of the PerfectWave SACD Transport is its ability to access the DSD layer of SACDs through its I²S output when connected to a compatible PS Audio DAC. This allows the raw DSD layer of a copyright-protected SACD to be delivered directly to a PS Audio-enabled DAC, providing access to the high-resolution digital information stored on the SACD layer.

The transport also supports a wide range of optical and USB-based digital media, including CD, SACD, CD-R, CD-RW and audio data recorded on compatible DVD formats, as well as MP3, WMA, AAC, WAV, FLAC, AIFF, DSD, 2xDSD and ALAC files. Its extensive digital outputs include I²S, coaxial RCA, dual BNC and dual balanced XLR connections.

Key Features

• Advanced optical disc transport for CD, SACD and compatible data discs
• Galvanically isolated output stage
• Advanced Digital Lens technology
• I²S output supporting PCM and raw DSD
• DSD layer of SACDs available through I²S output with compatible PS Audio DACs
• FPGA signal processing
• Large analogue power supply
• Separate power regulators
• Near-field latch placement
• USB input for stored digital media
• Dual BNC outputs for PCM and DoP
• Dual balanced XLR outputs for PCM and DoP
• RCA coaxial output for PCM and DoP
• Memory player transport
• Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity for over-the-air code updates
• Remote control
• Available in Black or Silver

Disc & Media Compatibility

Optical Discs:
SACD, CD, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R and DVD+RW
DVD formats are specified for audio data files only.

USB:
USB Flash Drive with audio files

Supported File Formats:
MP3 / WMA / AAC — approximately 48kHz / 320kbps
WAV / FLAC / AIFF — up to 192kHz / 24-bit
ALAC — up to 96kHz / 24-bit
DSD — up to 5.6MHz

Digital Architecture

Digital Lens: Advanced Digital Lens technology

Signal Processing: FPGA signal processing

Output Stage: Galvanically isolated

Power Architecture: Large analogue power supply with separate power regulators

DSD: Raw DSD output through I²S

SACD DSD Layer: Available through I²S to compatible PS Audio DACs

Digital Outputs

I²S:
1 x I²S output for PCM and raw DSD

Coaxial:
1 x coaxial output for PCM and DoP

BNC:
2 x BNC outputs for PCM and DoP
The two BNC outputs may be used together for double-rate DoP.

Balanced XLR:
2 x balanced XLR outputs for PCM and DoP

Connectivity & Control

USB:
USB data input for stored digital media

Network:
RJ45 Ethernet and Wi-Fi for over-the-air code updates

Control:
Remote control

Transport Operation:
Memory player transport

Setup:
PS Audio specifies zero setup and plug-and-play operation.

Galvanic Isolation

The PerfectWave SACD Transport incorporates a galvanically isolated output stage in which the drive mechanism and Digital Lens are physically and electrically separated from the output circuitry. PS Audio describes the architecture as using two completely separated power supplies, with one serving the noisier electronics and another serving the output stage.

According to PS Audio, signals between the separated sections are transferred using focused short-wavelength radio signals rather than conventional wired connections. The design is intended to prevent ground connections and common power-supply interactions between the two sections, reducing the influence of noise and jitter on the digital output.

Physical Specifications

Dimensions:
36cm W × 43cm D × 10cm H
14″ W × 17″ D × 4″ H

Unit Weight:
9.97kg / 22lbs

Shipping Weight:
14kg / 31lbs

Shipping Dimensions:
52cm W × 61cm D × 25cm H
20.5″ W × 24″ D × 10″ H

Finish:
Silver

Power Requirements

Input Power:
Model-specific 100VAC, 120VAC or 230VAC, 50 or 60Hz

Power Consumption:
30W

Conclusion

The PS Audio PerfectWave SACD Transport is a highly sophisticated digital source component created for listeners who continue to value physical media and want to extract the maximum information available from their CD and SACD collections. Its combination of advanced Digital Lens technology, FPGA processing, extensive digital outputs and galvanically isolated output stage reflects PS Audio’s focus on low-noise digital signal extraction and delivery.

Its ability to provide the raw DSD layer of compatible SACDs through I²S to a PS Audio-enabled DAC is particularly significant, giving owners of compatible systems a direct route to the high-resolution DSD information contained on SACD. Alongside SACD playback, the transport provides comprehensive support for CD and data-disc formats as well as USB-based digital audio files.

With its substantial power architecture, extensive connectivity and distinctive galvanic-isolation design, the PerfectWave SACD Transport represents a serious digital front-end solution for high-end systems. Although discontinued from new production in 2025, it remains a notable component for enthusiasts seeking a dedicated reference-level transport for physical digital media.

*The information provided above has been taken from the manufacturer’s original product manual and is intended as a reference. Specifications, features, dimensions and other details may vary depending on production version, regional configuration or subsequent manufacturer revisions. Please confirm specific details with HFX Systems prior to purchase.

Condition: Excellent

Colour: Silver

Note: Product includes original packaging and accessories