Digital Algorithms - Wadia 581 Information & Operation Manual

Digital Algorithms

In the Wadia 581 Disc Player there are three user-selectable digital algorithms that can be used to optimize the
sonic performance based on system matching and personal musical priorities.
The three algorithms in the 581 Disc Player all upsample to 32x the input rate (at 24 bit/1.4112 MHz DAC
sample rate), but differ in their time and frequency domain characteristics. They are:
Algorithm A Digimaster v2.5. Wadia's classic time-domain interpolation algorithm delivers a robust sound
with extraordinary image Focus and re-creation of recorded space.
Algorithm B Provides a more extended top end than Algorithm A, with superior time-domain performance
compared to conventional CD filters.
Algorithm C Retains the high frequency extension and superior detail resolution of Algorithm B, but with a
more relaxed presentation overall.
The selected algorithm is used for 44.1 kHz (CD) and 48 kHz sources, either from the internal transport or any
of the four digital inputs. For 88.2 kHz, 96 kHz and DSD (SACD) sources, Digimaster v2.5 is always used as it
provides the best performance at high-sample rates.
We encourage you to become familiar with the unique sonic performance of each of these
algorithms and enjoy the one that brings you optimum musical pleasure.
Selecting an Algorithm
To change the digital processing algorithm, press the Enter button on the remote control repeatedly to bring up
this configuration screen:
The selected algorithm is shown on the second line of the display. Use the Up and Down Volume buttons
to scroll to the desired algorithm, then either press the Mute button or the Enter button to navigate to the
'Save Changes?' screen and choose 'Yes'. The display will indicate 'CONFIGURATION STORED' and the output
of the 581 Disc Player will mute for 5-10 seconds while the selected algorithm is downloaded to the two
DSP computers.
Performing an Algorithm Comparison
When comparing processing algorithms it is important to adjust the volume to compensate for the different
gains of the algorithms. Without this adjustment the one which is louder will usually sound better in a
short-term A/B comparison.
In the 581 Disc Player, algorithm A is approximately 1db higher output level than B and C (which are within
0.1 db of each other). To compensate for this higher output level, increase the indicated volume setting by
2 units for algorithms B and C when comparing them to A.
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