PS Audio Stellar Strata MK2

The idea of combining a cutting-edge DAC, full-featured analog preamplifier, high-definition MC/MM phono preamplifier, and a robust 150-watt per channel power amplifier was the basis of the Stellar Strata™ design imperative. We wanted an easy, simple, no-compromise musical experience, whether playing from a connected transport or tracking amazing vinyl. “Just add speakers” became engineering’s rallying cry. Strata MK2 holds true to its promise of audiophile plug-and-play. Connect your speakers or headphones, press play, or lower the needle onto your vinyl, and music filled with the rich textures and toe-tapping energy you’ve always hoped for will delight even the most critical music lover.

Audiophiles have long recognized the challenge of interconnecting multiple systems into a single synergistic musical experience. Interconnect choices, power supply options, and chassis isolation requirements all play into the building of a truly musical system—get any one part wrong and the system performance is compromised. Not so with Stellar Strata MK2. The chance for PS Engineering to optimize the audio synergy between Strata’s four separate systems was immediately appealing: eliminate the variability of interconnection issues, voice the entire system as one component, optimize power supplies, control every aspect of sound quality up to the speakers.

Technology

At this instrument’s heart is the analog GainCell™. Developed by PS Audio founder Paul McGowan, the Gain Cell™ elegantly solves the fundamental problem facing preamp designers. Volume control. Nearly all analog preamplifiers use sonically degrading elements inserted in the signal path to control volume. The Gain Cell eliminates this problem without additional circuitry in the signal path by varying its gain in response to front panel controls. Once the high-definition streaming module or connected source has passed through the Class A analog preamplifier, it’s time to connect to your speakers. Here, engineer Darren Myers used the Analog Cell where he could lavish upon the music the sweet, tube-like quality of Class A biased MOSFETs. Combined with the ruler flat high linearity of Strata MK2’s high current output stage, richly overlayed layers of music’s inner details are preserved even in the most complex orchestral crescendos.

The inside Scoop

Once the high definition phono stage or connected source has passed through the Class A analog preamplifier, it’s time to connect to your speakers. Here, engineer Darren Myers used the Analog Cell where he could lavish upon the music the sweet, tube-like quality of Class A biased MOSFETs. Combined with the ruler flat high linearity of Strata MK2’s high current output stage, richly overlaid layers of music’s inner details are preserved even in the most complex orchestral crescendos. There’s nothing like Strata MK2 when it comes to musicality. It’s an all-in-one high-resolution audio solution just waiting for you to connect your speakers. Bring it on!

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Construction

When you first pick up Stellar Strata MK2 Amplifier, you’ll notice its solid build and heft. Every inch of Stellar suggests quality: from its rear panel connectors, Darren Myers designed MC/MM phono stage, to its internal high-end power amplifiers. Quality input and output connections, as well as beautifully constructed internals, will offer immediate assurance of quality from the very first moment you pull Strata MK2 out of its box.

Specifications – Stellar Strata MK2

General