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DACs — PS Audio Stellar DAC
Description, images, technical data and specifications
PS Audio Stellar DAC
Image source - (c) PS Audio
The Stellar DAC is a standalone converter from PS Audio, an American maker of electronics that has more recently added loudspeakers to its catalogue. It uses an ESS ES9018K2M chip and has a variable analogue output stage. In the PS Audio DAC range the PMG Signature 512 DAC sits a further step above it.
Key specs that matter
The Stellar DAC handles PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256. Frequency response is rated from 10 Hz to 55 kHz at -3 dB. The balanced output delivers up to 4 V at an output impedance of 200 ohms, and the single-ended output up to 2 V at 100 ohms. Signal-to-noise ratio reaches 110 dB, with THD+N of 0.003%.
Engineering and use context
Both analogue outputs are variable, so the volume is set inside the converter itself. The full-width casing measures 431.8 x 76.2 x 304.8 mm and the unit weighs 11.8 kg, a substantial build for a standalone DAC.
Pairing
With variable outputs, the Stellar DAC can feed a power amplifier on its own, and in some systems a separate preamplifier is not needed.
Alternatives
PS Audio offers the StellarGold DAC one step higher, as a more developed converter.
Key specs that matter
The Stellar DAC handles PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256. Frequency response is rated from 10 Hz to 55 kHz at -3 dB. The balanced output delivers up to 4 V at an output impedance of 200 ohms, and the single-ended output up to 2 V at 100 ohms. Signal-to-noise ratio reaches 110 dB, with THD+N of 0.003%.
Engineering and use context
Both analogue outputs are variable, so the volume is set inside the converter itself. The full-width casing measures 431.8 x 76.2 x 304.8 mm and the unit weighs 11.8 kg, a substantial build for a standalone DAC.
Pairing
With variable outputs, the Stellar DAC can feed a power amplifier on its own, and in some systems a separate preamplifier is not needed.
Alternatives
PS Audio offers the StellarGold DAC one step higher, as a more developed converter.
Specifications
Model name
Stellar DAC
Conversion type
N/A
Engine
ES9018K2M
DSD compatability
Yes
Parameters
up to PCM 32/384 and DSD252
Frequency response low +/- 3dB (Hz)
10
Frequency response high +/- 3dB (Hz)
55000
Gain (dBu)
N/A
Output Level (balanced) (V)
4
Output Level (single-ended) (V)
2
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
Variable
Signal to Noise Ratio (dB)
110
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (% at 22 kHz)
0.003
Dimensions (mm)
431.8 x 76.2 x 304.8
Weight (kg)
11.8
Official link
