Of course, you can just set up Roon to convert DSD to PCM; if you go for the highest quality converter of DSD it is often better than internal DAC conversion. Most DAC’s work in PCM internally (even though they are built around a sigma-delta chip). So I have tried this on fairly high end DAC’s (5000 USD+); the DSD to PCM converter in Roon is very good.
Edit:
If the DAC fully works in DSD - then converting the other way (from PCM to DSD) is the way to go.
Just convert DSD64, 128, 256, 512 to 176.4kHz. Is is that easy (don’t use 192kHz). Or if your DAC supports up to 384kHz; use 352.8Khz instead of 176.4kHz.
If you have the processing power in your core: Select 7th order (clans); and enable native DSD processing).
Edit:
If you don’t have any DSD files; this is a waste of time
Edit2:
Some devices also got a setting for DSD to PCM in the device setup. Check there first, then it will automatically convert using the optimal settings for your device.
All you need to do in DSP is to set the conversion to MAX PCM Rate (Power of 2). That will choose the highest PCM Rate that is a multiple of the base rate. So you don’t have to worry about figuring out what the highest rate your DAC can support, Roon will handle it.
Also, don’t get confused if you do not have “Enable Native DSD Processing” as an option. That option only is shown if there is a DSD capable DAC attached.
Looks good to me. That is how I have the feed to my DigiOne setup.
That will convert everything, PCM or DSD to the highest multiple PCM rate your endpoint/DAC can handle. So, 16/44.1 (CD resolution) goes to 24/176.4 and 24/96 will go to 24/192. DSD will get converted to a multiple of 44.1, so in your case 24/176.4.
Then under DSD Processing Settings (same screen)
Sigma Delta Modulator = 7th Order (CLANS) <== lower this setting if you get CPU issues
SDM Gain Adjustment = 0DB
Parallelize Sigma-Delta Modulator = No
Enable Native DSD Processing = Yes <=== Turn this off if you get CPU issues
Just make sure it is Roon Ready; it is not stated in the list of Roon Ready devices. If it is Roon ready; it will work fine and a good cheap choice in my opinion.
You don’t want to be stuck with the Auralic nightmarish apps to control the device, in case it is not Roon ready.