PS AUDIO STELLAR STRATA MK II

Ex-demo from distributor. Supplied with original packaging, remote control, and user manual.

The Stellar Strata MK2 is an integrated amplifier that brings together everything needed for a truly high-end listening experience, all within a single, elegant, and solid chassis. Inside, it houses a fully balanced Class A analog preamplifier, a state-of-the-art digital-to-analog converter, a high-definition MM/MC phono stage, and a powerful 150-watt-per-channel power amplifier — all engineered to deliver a rich, full-bodied, and emotionally engaging sound. It’s a system designed for those who seek simplicity without compromise: just add speakers, press play or drop the needle, and the music comes alive with stunning detail, dynamics, and naturalness.

The MK2’s architecture is born from the desire to eliminate the uncertainty and compromises that often plague systems made up of separate components. The internal connection between DAC, preamp, phono stage, and power amp is fully optimized, with dedicated power supplies and a synergistic design that allows total control over the signal path from the source to the speaker outputs. The result is a coherent, natural sound, with a tonal consistency rarely found in more complex setups.

At the heart of the preamplifier is a newly designed analog attenuator that avoids the sonic degradation typical of traditional volume controls, preserving the integrity of the signal. Once processed by the Class A preamp, the sound passes through the Analog Cell — a circuit created by Darren Myers using Class A-biased MOSFETs — delivering a smooth tonal warmth reminiscent of the finest tube amplifiers. The high-current output stage ensures flawless linearity and control, even in the most complex and demanding musical passages.

The DAC section is complete and modern, supporting PCM up to 384 kHz and DSD through I2S, with multiple digital inputs including asynchronous USB, coaxial, and two I2S ports. The integrated phono stage, also designed by Myers, is compatible with both MM and MC cartridges and excels in extracting every subtle nuance from vinyl grooves. A Class A headphone amplifier is also included for intimate and refined listening sessions.

Strata MK2 is conceived as a high-performance all-in-one solution, sacrificing nothing in terms of musicality or transparency. Every detail — from the weight of the chassis to the quality of the connectors and the care in internal layout — conveys solidity, precision, and a deep passion for audio. It simplifies the system while elevating the experience, taking the listener straight to the heart of the music.

Technical specifications:

• Analog audio inputs: 2 stereo RCA pairs; 1 stereo XLR pair
• Phono inputs: 1 stereo RCA pair MM; 1 stereo RCA pair MC
• Digital audio inputs: 2 I2S inputs (PCM 44.1kHz–384kHz; DSD64, DSD128, DSD256); 2 coaxial inputs (PCM 44.1kHz–192kHz); 1 optical input (PCM 44.1kHz–192kHz); 1 USB input (PCM 44.1kHz–384kHz; native DSD64, DSD128; DoP DSD64, DSD128)
• Audio outputs: 1 stereo RCA pair (unbalanced); 1 x 1/4" headphone jack; 2 pairs of speaker binding posts
• Other connections: 2 x 3.5mm trigger out (5–15 VDC); 1 USB-A port (for firmware updates)
• Unit dimensions: 43.2 cm (W) x 7.1 cm (H, excluding feet) x 34.3 cm (D, including connectors and knobs; chassis only: 30.5 cm)
• Weight: 9.5 kg (21 lbs)