Integrated amplifiers — PS Audio Stellar Strata MK2

The Stellar Strata MK2 is an integrated amplifier with a built-in DAC and phono stage from PS Audio, positioned above the brand's compact Sprout100. This model offers a comprehensive feature set - amplification, digital conversion and phono equalisation - within a single, relatively compact chassis.

Position in line

It sits above the Sprout100 in PS Audio's integrated amplifier hierarchy, as a more full-featured design. This positioning above the brand's smallest Sprout100 suggests the Strata MK2 offers meaningfully more power and refinement while remaining an accessible, all-in-one solution rather than a full separates system.

Key specs that matter

Rated output is 100 W into 8 ohms, rising to 150 W into 4 ohms. The built-in phono stage covers MM at 47 kOhm and MC at 100 ohms. Distortion is under 0.02%. Damping factor is 29, a modest figure. At 559 x 203 x 43 mm and 11.4 kg it is a low-profile, wide chassis, distinctive in form factor compared with a conventional boxy integrated amplifier.

Sound and use context

Expect a controlled, feature-rich presentation, with the built-in DAC and phono stage covering digital and vinyl sources without separate outboard units - a comprehensive single-box solution for a buyer wanting to avoid a multi-component separates system.

Pairing

One balanced and two single-ended inputs plus phono cover a modest source lineup without needing external switching, a practical arrangement for most typical systems.

Alternatives

The Sprout100 sits below this model in PS Audio's range as a more compact, simpler alternative, worth considering instead if this model's additional features and output exceed what a more modest system requires. PS Audio well-regarded thirty-day in-home trial policy, where available through authorised dealers, makes this a low-risk way to judge whether the built-in DAC and phono stage suit a specific system before committing fully. The unusually low-profile chassis shape here also deserves confirmation of adequate shelf clearance before ordering. Overall this remains a comprehensive single-box solution for a space-conscious system. A rigid, well-supported shelf also helps this unusually shaped chassis sit securely in most racks. A dealer visit remains the simplest way to compare this model against the more compact Sprout100. Overall this remains a sensible middle-ground choice within PS Audio integrated amplifier range.