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DACs — PS Audio Stellar DAC
Description, images, technical data and specifications
PS Audio Stellar DAC
Image source — © PS Audio
The Stellar DAC is a digital-to-analogue converter from PS Audio, built around an ESS ES9018K2M chip with a variable analogue output stage. PS Audio has built a serious reputation across electronics and increasingly loudspeakers, and this DAC applies the brand's characteristic engineering approach to digital conversion specifically.
Position in line
It sits below the StellarGold DAC and DirectStream DAC MK2 in PS Audio's DAC hierarchy, near the PMG Signature 512 DAC as a further step up. As the entry point in PS Audio's Stellar-tier DAC range, this model likely offers capable performance before the brand's considerably more elaborate flagship converters.
Key specs that matter
It handles PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256. Rated bandwidth is 10 Hz to 55 kHz. Both balanced and single-ended outputs are variable, at 4 V and 2 V maximum. Signal-to-noise is 110 dB with distortion at 0.003%. At 431.8 x 76.2 x 304.8 mm and 11.8 kg it is a substantial chassis, consistent with PS Audio's typically robust build quality.
Sound and use context
Expect a clean, controlled presentation with the variable output level allowing direct connection to a power amplifier as well as through a conventional preamplifier - a flexible design that can simplify a system by removing the need for a separate preamplifier in some configurations.
Pairing
The variable balanced and single-ended outputs allow it to drive a power amplifier directly, widening system configuration options considerably compared with a fixed-output DAC.
Alternatives
The StellarGold DAC and DirectStream DAC MK2 sit above this model in PS Audio's range for a more developed converter, worth the further investment if this entry model's already solid performance still leaves ambitions for PS Audio's higher tiers. PS Audio own online forum and active engineering team communication with customers is a distinctive part of the brand ownership experience, worth exploring for buyers wanting direct manufacturer engagement beyond typical customer service. A dealer demonstration comparing the fixed and variable output modes, where the unit supports both, helps clarify which configuration suits a specific preamplifier or power amplifier pairing. Overall this remains a capable, flexible entry point into PS Audio broader DAC catalogue. A dealer visit remains the simplest way to compare this model directly against the higher-tier StellarGold DAC.
Position in line
It sits below the StellarGold DAC and DirectStream DAC MK2 in PS Audio's DAC hierarchy, near the PMG Signature 512 DAC as a further step up. As the entry point in PS Audio's Stellar-tier DAC range, this model likely offers capable performance before the brand's considerably more elaborate flagship converters.
Key specs that matter
It handles PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256. Rated bandwidth is 10 Hz to 55 kHz. Both balanced and single-ended outputs are variable, at 4 V and 2 V maximum. Signal-to-noise is 110 dB with distortion at 0.003%. At 431.8 x 76.2 x 304.8 mm and 11.8 kg it is a substantial chassis, consistent with PS Audio's typically robust build quality.
Sound and use context
Expect a clean, controlled presentation with the variable output level allowing direct connection to a power amplifier as well as through a conventional preamplifier - a flexible design that can simplify a system by removing the need for a separate preamplifier in some configurations.
Pairing
The variable balanced and single-ended outputs allow it to drive a power amplifier directly, widening system configuration options considerably compared with a fixed-output DAC.
Alternatives
The StellarGold DAC and DirectStream DAC MK2 sit above this model in PS Audio's range for a more developed converter, worth the further investment if this entry model's already solid performance still leaves ambitions for PS Audio's higher tiers. PS Audio own online forum and active engineering team communication with customers is a distinctive part of the brand ownership experience, worth exploring for buyers wanting direct manufacturer engagement beyond typical customer service. A dealer demonstration comparing the fixed and variable output modes, where the unit supports both, helps clarify which configuration suits a specific preamplifier or power amplifier pairing. Overall this remains a capable, flexible entry point into PS Audio broader DAC catalogue. A dealer visit remains the simplest way to compare this model directly against the higher-tier StellarGold DAC.
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
