The paper explores dualizing differential graded (DG) modules over DG algebras. The focus is on DG algebras that are commutative local, and finite. One of the main results established is that, for this class of DG algebras, a finite DG module is dualizing precisely when its Bass number is 1. As a corollary, one obtains that the Avramov–Foxby notion of Gorenstein DG algebras coincides with that due to Frankild and Jørgensen. One other key result is that, under suitable hypotheses, any two dualizing DG modules are quasiisomorphic up to a suspension. In addition, it is established that a number of naturally occurring DG algebras possess dualizing DG modules.

Let R be the pullback A ×cB, where B → C is a surjective homomorphism of commutative rings and A is a subring of C. It is shown that R and C are Hilbert rings if and only if A and B are Hilbert rings. Applications are given to the D + XE[X], D + M, and D + (X1,..., Xn)Ds[X1,..., Xn] constructions. For these constructions, new examples are given of Hilbert domains R which are unruly, in the sense that R is non-Noetherian and each of its maximal ideals is finitely generated. Related examples are also given.