The technology behind Super Audio CDs (SACD) has been around for years--since the late '90s, in fact. Developed by Sony, the SACD format allows for improved sound quality and larger amounts of information on each CD. That means that extra features such as text and images can be included, plus up to six-track multi-channel data, which part of the reason why the sound produced by these CDs is so much fuller. SACD titles utilize DSD, or Direct Stream Technology. Allowing for a greater range and higher frequency, DSD technology offers a greater music resolution. The main selling point of this technology is that the sound produced on SACD tracks is much closer to the original, since DSD allows the original wave form of the music to be better followed and preserved.
SACD albums are created to be played on SACD-specific players. Those with extensive music collections may shudder at the thought of converting their favorite albums to yet another format, but there's nothing to worry about there. SACD players can play back traditional CDs with no problem.
Many Super Audio CD titles currently being produced are hybrids, and can be played on regular CD players, though this is not always the case. (The title in question must have a CD layer to be a hybrid.) Be aware, though, that the extra features and improved multi-channel sound quality will not be accessible if a Super Audio CD is played on a regular CD player. However, this does offer a nice transition option for those who want the SACD quality, but aren't quite ready to shell out for a player.
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