The PS Audio Stellar DAC isn't just another digital-to-analog converter; it's a testament to meticulous engineering and a commitment to pure, unadulterated sound. This review delves into the Stellar DAC's design, features, and performance, examining why it stands out in a fiercely competitive high-end audio market. From its understated elegance and impeccable build quality to its sophisticated internal architecture, we explore every facet of this exceptional audio component.We'll uncover the secrets behind its exceptional sonic performance, analyzing its fully balanced Class A output stage, the role of its innovative Digital Lens technology, and the impact of its oversized analog power supply. Discover how the Stellar DAC renders music with remarkable natural balance and coherence, drawing you into the performance with its organic warmth and expansive soundstage. This in-depth review will help you determine if the Stellar DAC is the perfect addition to your high-fidelity system.
Pros And Cons
- Exceptional musical performance at a reasonable price
- Understated elegance and high-quality build
- Refreshingly uncluttered front panel with essential controls and clear OLED display
- Functional and backlit remote control
- Fully balanced Class A analog output stage for audio purity
- Uses ES918 K2M DAC chip with a focus on implementation
- No capacitors in the output signal path, using an oversized analog power supply for pure sonic presentation
- Ready and operational modes for power conservation
- Comprehensive connectivity options (2 I2S, 2 coaxial, 1 optical, asynchronous USB)
- Handles sample rates up to 384kHz and supports DSD up to DSD256
- Proprietary digital lens technology for jitter reduction and signal processing
- Remarkable natural balance and coherence, drawing the listener into the musical performance
- Three digital filters (fast rolloff linear phase, slow rolloff linear phase, fast rolloff minimum phase) offer sonic variations
- Remote control allows for on-the-fly filter adjustments
- May not appeal to those seeking the most analytically detailed presentation
- Not for listeners who prioritize specifications over musical enjoyment
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Unboxing and Build Quality
The PS Audio Stellar DAC boasts an understated elegance, a silver case conveying serious audiophile intentions rather than flashy aesthetics. Its build quality is impeccable, with a reassuring heft suggesting substantial internal components and meticulous construction. The finish is exquisite, and every detail speaks to high-quality manufacturing.
The front panel is refreshingly minimalist, featuring only essential controls: a power button, a menu-navigating input selector, and a clear OLED display. This uncluttered design keeps the focus where it belongs – on the music. Even the input naming feature, though minor, elevates the user experience.
Design Philosophy and Key Features
At its core, the Stellar DAC utilizes a fully balanced Class A analog output stage, a testament to PS Audio's commitment to pure audio reproduction. The digital section centers around the ES9028PRO DAC chip, but PS Audio's focus is on implementation, not just the latest technology; smart engineering makes all the difference.
A significant design element is the absence of output capacitors, replaced by an oversized analog power supply. This, along with the ‘Ready’ and ‘Operational’ mode control via the PS logo button (allowing for power conservation while keeping sensitive components energized), contributes to the Stellar DAC's superior sonic performance. The design shows attention to detail from top to bottom.
Connectivity and Technical Specifications
Connectivity is comprehensive and well-considered, featuring dual I2S inputs, two coaxial inputs, one optical input, and an asynchronous USB connection. The dual I2S inputs allow simultaneous connection of multiple high-end digital sources which is a benefit to high end users.
The Stellar DAC supports sample rates up to 384kHz and DSD up to DSD256 in native mode. DSD direct is available via the I2S connection. PS Audio's proprietary Digital Lens technology, a significant technical achievement, minimizes jitter for incredibly clear and clean audio reproduction.
Sound Quality and Listening Impressions
The Stellar DAC's sound is characterized by remarkable natural balance and coherence, drawing the listener into the musical performance. It avoids artificial enhancements and hyper-detailing, opting for a holistic and engaging listening experience. The three digital filter options provide subtle sonic variations to tailor the sound to different recordings and preferences.
Testing with diverse musical genres, from intimate acoustic performances (Nirvana's MTV Unplugged) to complex orchestral scores (Hans Zimmer's work), the Stellar DAC consistently demonstrated its ability to deliver natural dynamics, detailed imaging, and expansive sound staging. The Class A output stage contributes significantly to its organic warmth.
Conclusion and Verdict
The PS Audio Stellar DAC, priced at $2,199, competes effectively in a crowded market. Its strengths lie in its musical coherence and natural presentation, achieved through thoughtful engineering rather than chasing raw specifications or using the newest DAC chip. It prioritizes musical engagement and long-term listening pleasure.
This isn't a DAC for those seeking hyper-analytical detail or those who prioritize specifications over musical enjoyment. However, for listeners who value natural balance, organic warmth, and an engaging listening experience, the Stellar DAC delivers exceptional value. It's a strong recommendation for audiophiles who want a natural and engaging way to enjoy their digital music.