PS Audio StellarGold DAC
Image source — © PS Audio
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Model name
StellarGold DAC
Conversion type
N/A
Engine
ES9038PRO DAC
DSD compatability
Yes
Parameters
up to 32 bit / 768 kHz and DSD256
Frequency response low +/- 3dB (Hz)
N/A
Frequency response high +/- 3dB (Hz)
N/A
Gain (dBu)
N/A
Output Level (balanced) (V)
N/A
Output Level (single-ended) (V)
N/A
Input Impedance (balanced) (Ω)
N/A
Input Impedance (single-ended) (Ω)
N/A
Output Impedance (balanced) (Ω)
200
Output Impedance (single-ended) (Ω)
100
Analog outputs
N/A
Signal to Noise Ratio (dB)
>127
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (% at 22 kHz)
<0.002
Dimensions (mm)
431.8 x 76.2 x 304.8
Weight (kg)
10.2
Official link
The foundation of the PS Audio Stellar Gain Cell DAC is the stunning digital-to-analog converter developed by Bob Stadter. Based on the industry-leading Sabre 32 bit Hyperstream architecture. The Stellar DAC features a fully balanced Class A analog output stage with multiple power supplies, independent inputs with reduced jitter, DSD, I2S, and asynchronous USB.
The Direct Stream DAC MK2 model uses an FPGA (Programmable Gate array) with original software developed by PS Audio, rather than standard chips. The FPGA-based solution allows you to customize the software to ensure high-quality sound. In addition, the software can be updated by the user, which opens up the possibility of a software upgrade of the component in the future.
The basis is the PureStream DSD512 engine, which converts any digital audio into a pure 8X DSD stream — without PCM.
The PS Audio Stellar DAC features the Digital Lens technology with ESS Sabre ES9018K2M 32-bit Hyperstream converter, I2S inputs, class-A analog output, and high-current power supply.