Upsampling
TL;DR
Upsampling is the process of converting audio from a lower sample rate to a higher one before DAC conversion (e.g., 44.1 kHz to 384 kHz). Handled internally by modern DACs via oversampling. External upsampling in software (Roon, HQPlayer) is a niche audiophile tweak.
Upsampling is digitally converting audio from one sample rate to a higher one before DAC conversion. Different from oversampling (which is inside the DAC chip) – upsampling is done in software or a separate device.
Why upsample
- Some listeners perceive smoother sound from certain upsampling algorithms
- Modern PCM upsampling from 44.1 to 352.8 kHz (8x) can reduce reconstruction filter ripple
- PCM-to-DSD conversion is a form of upsampling favored by some audiophiles
Where you’ll find it
- Roon “signal path” – built-in upsampling to DAC max
- HQPlayer – dedicated upsampling software ($200+)
- Some DACs (Chord, PS Audio) advertise proprietary upsampling algorithms
Reality check
Upsampling from CD to hi-res doesn’t add information. Modern DAC chips do excellent oversampling internally. External upsampling is a minor tweak – not a game-changer.
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