FAQ
Who makes the Super Audio CD and player?
Sony and Philips Electronics are responsible for the creation of the Super Audio CD. Several manufacturers, including Sony, Philips, Marantz, Accuphase, Denon, Kenwood, Aiwa, and Sharp are manufacturing SACD players.
When can I buy an SACD player?
Super Audio CD was launched in early September 1999. SACD players are now available for purchase in the United States and around the world.
Where can I buy SACD titles?
SACD titles can be found at traditional retail outlets. SACDs from Sony Music can also be purchased at www.sonymusic.com/sacd
What is the technology behind SACD?
The sound of SACD comes directly from Direct Stream Digital (DSD) recording technology. DSD's simplified mechanism for recording and playback results in a frequency response of over 100kHz and a dynamic range over 120dB across the audible frequency range. DSD increases the resolution of music by more closely following the original wave form of the music, which results in music reproduction that is remarkably pure and faithful to the original. For additional information concerning the technology behind SACD, visit Sony Electronics SACD.
What are the benefits of SACD?
In addition to exceptional sound quality through the DSD system, the SACD format can accommodate more than four times the information of the current CD format. With this extra capacity, a standard Super Audio CD will provide space for 2-channel stereo data, as well as an area for up to 6-track multi-channel data, storage capacity for text and images, disc variations, copyright protection and much more.
Will my current CD collection play on an SACD player?
Yes. Super Audio CD players can play back all current CDs.
Can I play a Super Audio CD on my current CD player?
Only Hybrid SACDs - i.e., those containing a CD layer - can be played on CD compatible players.
What is SACD Multi-channel?
SACD multi-channel sound can contain as many as six separate channels, each captured on disc at the full DSD bit rate with the full DSD sound quality. Some producers will use the added channels to faithfully reproduce the precise acoustic signature of the performance space. Others will realize new creative possibilities, immersing the listener in a 360° field of sound. Multi-channel SACD takes its place beside stereo SACD as another compelling way to enjoy music.
What is a Hybrid Super Audio CD (Hybrid SACD)?
A Hybrid SACD contains two separate layers. One layer carries the normal CD information and the other layer contains the high density SACD information - a multichannel mix and/or stereo mix. A Hybrid SACD can be played on any CD compatible player. However, if played on a standard CD player, only the CD layer will play. The SACD layer can only be played on a SACD player.
