PS Audio today has announced the introduction of its Stellar Strata Integrated Amplifier, with versatile features including a built-in DAC and high-definition streamer, 200 watt-per-channel amplifier (into 4 ohms), remote control operation and much more.

“We created the Strata to deliver exceptional musicality and high-end performance in an elegant all-in-one component that is compact, yet offers extensive features,” noted Paul McGowan, PS Audio CEO.

PS Audio Stellar Strata

The Strata integrated amplifier is fully balanced from input to output. Its preamplifier stage features PS Audio’s exclusive analogue GainCell, which, they say, “eliminates the sonic degradation that can be caused by conventional volume controls”. The Strata provides three analogue inputs including an XLR balanced input.

DAC

The built-in DAC was designed by the PS Audio engineering team of Bob Stadherr and Darren Myers. All digital signals are fed in native mode into the DAC’s proprietary 32-bit Digital Lens, which recognises the sample rate, re-clocks the data, reduces jitter and applies other processing. The DAC can deliver up to 384kHz digital audio depending on the source, with native DSD capability. The Strata provides coaxial and optical digital, asynchronous USB, and I2S inputs.

Streaming Module

A built-in streaming module offers high-resolution audio up to 192kHz from streaming services including Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify, Napster, iHeart Radio, DLNA and other sources. The streaming module is operated from a smartphone using the new PS Connect app and music server software such as JRiver, Bit Perfect, Amarra or Pure Music. The phone acts as a wireless controller, with the Strata receiving its audio stream directly from the internet via Ethernet or Wi-Fi.

In addition, the Strata’s digital filter selection feature allows the listener to choose between Slow, Minimum and Fast settings and tailor the high-frequency response to personal preferences and program sources.

Class D

The Strata’s output stage utilises an ICE high-current Class D module with PS Audio’s exclusive GainCell circuitry, which mirrors the sonic warmth of a vacuum tube while providing the power and control of solid state. The amp can deliver 200 watts per channel (into 4 ohms, 100 into 8 ohms), and drive even difficult loudspeaker loads with ease. Other Strata features include a built-in headphone amplifier, a volume trim function that adjusts the levels of each input to avoid large volume swings when switching between sources, phase and balance adjustments and other functions.

Price & Availability

The Strata’s design matches other Stellar Series components and is available in silver or black.

The PS Audio Stellar Strata Integrated Amplifier will be available in June 2020 at a US manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $2,999.

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