PS AUDIO STELLAR STRATA

Ex-demo from distributor. Supplied with original packaging and manual.

The PS Audio Stellar Strata is an integrated system that brings together in one elegant chassis a high-quality balanced analog preamplifier, a state-of-the-art DAC, a high-resolution streaming module, and a powerful 150-watt-per-channel amplifier. Designed for those who refuse to compromise on sound quality, this unit is the ideal answer for anyone seeking reference-level performance without the complexity and cost often associated with separate components. Strata was conceived to deliver a complete, straightforward musical experience: simply connect your speakers, download the PS Connect app, and start enjoying music with tonal richness and emotional depth that captivate from the very first listen.

Thanks to its fully balanced architecture, the Class A analog preamplifier ensures pure and transparent signal handling. At the heart of the system lies the Gain Cell, a technology developed by Paul McGowan that eliminates the need for traditional attenuators in the signal path by managing volume through gain variation. Once the signal has been processed by the DAC or the built-in streamer, it passes through this refined analog stage before reaching the final amplifier, which is also based on PS Audio’s proprietary Analog Cell technology. Here, Class A-biased MOSFETs deliver a warm, full-bodied sound with the natural smoothness of tubes, but with the precision and dynamic punch of a high-current solid-state stage.

The seamless integration of the internal components allows PS Audio to control every aspect of the sound, eliminating the common issues of synergy, interconnection, and power supply that often affect multi-box systems. The tonal coherence and signal purity remain intact even in the most demanding scenarios, such as complex orchestral passages or high-resolution recordings. Strata is capable of decoding signals up to 384 kHz via USB, 192 kHz via coaxial, and handles native DSD files through the I2S input. Its four digital inputs, Digital Lens jitter reduction technology, compatibility with Spotify and major streaming services, integrated Wi-Fi, and app control all contribute to a highly advanced technological package.

Headphone listening is treated with the same care: the Class A headphone amplifier delivers excellent performance, ideal for intimate and refined listening sessions. Every construction detail—from the robust chassis to the high-quality rear connectors—exudes craftsmanship and reliability. The Stellar Strata stands out as a definitive audio solution for those seeking a compact yet reference-grade system, delivering authentic musical emotion with every playback.

Technical Specifications

Analog Inputs

• RCA: 3 stereo pairs
• XLR: 1 stereo pair

Digital Audio Inputs

• I2S: 1 input; PCM (up to 384 kHz); DSD64; DSD128; compatible with DirectStream Transport for DSD playback
• Coaxial: 2 inputs; PCM (up to 192 kHz)
• Optical: 1 input; PCM (up to 96 kHz)
• USB: PCM (up to 384 kHz); DSD64 (DoP); DSD128 (DoP)
• Supported formats: PCM; DSD

Analog Audio Outputs

• RCA: 1 unbalanced stereo pair
• Headphones: 1 front panel 1/4" headphone jack

Analog Performance

• Gain: 12 dB ±0.5 dB
• Max output: 20 Vrms
• Sensitivity: 5.3 Vrms
• Input impedance: 47 kΩ unbalanced RCA; 100 kΩ balanced XLR
• Output impedance: 100 Ω unbalanced RCA; 200 Ω balanced XLR
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz (+0/-0.25 dB); 10 Hz – 100 kHz (+0.1/-3.0 dB)
• Noise: 20–20 kHz < -90 dBV
• S/N ratio: 1 kHz > 110 dB (max output)
• Channel separation: 1 kHz > 90 dB
• Input separation: 1 kHz > 90 dB
• THD & IM: 1 kHz < 0.025%; 20–20 kHz < 0.05%

Headphone Performance

• Output power @1% THD: 300 mW @ 300 Ω; 3.25 W @ 16 Ω
• S/N ratio @1 kHz: >95 dB (max output)
• Noise: < -80 dBV
• THD & IM @1 Vrms output: <0.05% @ 300 Ω; <0.06% @ 16 Ω
• Output impedance: <4 Ω

Power Amplifier

• THD & IM: <0.02% @ 1 kHz, 1W/4Ω; <0.02% @ 10–20 kHz, 1W/4Ω; <0.05% (90 kHz BW) @ 10–50 kHz, 1W/4Ω; <0.01% @ 1 kHz, 37.5W/4Ω
• Output power (both channels driven, 120V AC, 1 kHz, 1% THD): minimum 100W @ 8Ω; minimum 150W @ 4Ω; stable into 2Ω for musical transients

Dimensions and Weight

• Unit weight: 6.1 kg (13.5 lbs)
• Unit dimensions: 43 cm x 30.5 cm x 7.6 cm (17” x 12” x 3”)