PS AUDIO STELLAR GOLD DAC

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

The StellarGold DAC represents a milestone in the world of digital-to-analog conversion, a device capable of redefining audio standards within its price category. The result of meticulous engineering and bold vision, this converter stands out thanks to its parallel DAC architecture, a rarely adopted yet extremely effective solution. Each channel is built using four high-resolution digital-to-analog converters whose outputs are summed and fed into a fully discrete Class A analog output stage, specifically designed for this unit.

The result is a sound that is astonishingly natural, rich in detail, and full of musicality. The use of multiple DACs in parallel significantly reduces noise and channel crosstalk while enhancing linearity and dynamic range. Each converter’s microscopic imperfections are balanced out by the others, producing an incredibly precise sonic average that a single chip could never achieve. This configuration allows the StellarGold to surpass many far more expensive solutions in terms of resolution, clarity, and transparency.

Designed around the renowned ESS 9038 Pro platform, the StellarGold features a multi-stage, ultra-low-impedance power supply and a direct balanced output using discrete components, delivering speed, responsiveness, and a sense of musical authority. With a signal-to-noise ratio exceeding 127 dB and harmonic distortion (SINAD) over 112 dB, this DAC ranks among the absolute best.

Compatible with PCM signals up to 768 kHz and DSD up to 256 (11.2 MHz), the StellarGold offers a wide range of digital inputs — I2S, USB, AES/EBU, coaxial — for perfect integration into any system. Its fully balanced design, low-jitter clock, handcrafted construction, and obsessive attention to component selection make this DAC a true gem for those seeking uncompromising reference-grade performance.

Developed by Darren Myers with the goal of pushing the limits of current audio technologies, the StellarGold is more than a converter — it is the beating heart of a high-end hi-fi system. It can be paired with a dedicated preamplifier or connected directly to a power amplifier, thanks to its built-in lossless volume control. Every detail, from circuit layout to its understated and elegant aesthetic, reflects PS Audio’s commitment to delivering a product that merges technical innovation with pure musical emotion. One listen is enough to realize that this is something truly unique, capable of transforming any track into an immersive and emotionally engaging listening experience.

Technical specifications:

• Analog output stage: Fully discrete, fully balanced JFET/BJT hybrid
• Output connectors: RCA single-ended; XLR balanced
• Maximum output level: 4 VRMS balanced; 2 VRMS single-ended
• Output impedance: 100Ω (balanced); 200Ω (single-ended)
• Frequency response: 20Hz–20kHz, ±0.1dB; 10Hz–70kHz, -1dB
• Max output: 4V RMS balanced; 2V RMS single-ended
• THD+N @ 1kHz (full scale): <0.002%
• IMD (CCIF, full scale): <0.002%
• SNR: >127dB referenced to 4V RMS
• Supported formats: PCM or DSD
• PCM sample rates: 44.1kHz; 48.0kHz; 88.2kHz; 96.0kHz; 176.4kHz; 192kHz; 352.8kHz; 384kHz; 705.6kHz; 768kHz
• DSD sample rates: Up to DSD256 (11.2MHz) via DoP and Native DSD1024
• Digital volume control: Yes
• Analog conversion technology: ES9038PRO DAC
• I2S digital input: HDMI connector; PCM or DSD format; DoP on all inputs; Native DSD on I2S inputs
• USB digital input: USB Type B connector; PCM, DoP v1.1 (DSD over PCM), Native DSD; asynchronous transfer mode
• Unit weight: 10.2 kg (22.5 lbs)
• Unit dimensions: 43.18 cm x 7.62 cm x 30.48 cm (17" W x 3" H x 12" D)