Introduction

The StellarGold DAC stands at the pinnacle of PS Audio’s Stellar line, offering state-of-the-art digital-to-analog conversion in a beautifully machined enclosure. By combining multiple ESS Sabre ES9038PRO DAC chips in parallel with a fully discrete, Class A analog output stage, it delivers unprecedented resolution, dynamics, and musicality for every source you connect.

Design

At its core, the StellarGold employs four ES9038PRO converter chips per channel, operating in a dual-differential configuration to average out nonlinearities and push noise floors far below audibility. A massive, toroidal power transformer feeds multiple low-impedance regulators dedicated to digital and analog sections. The precision stepped attenuator volume control and all-metal mechanical switch matrix ensure both signal purity and robust long-term reliability.

Application

Use the StellarGold as the centerpiece of any high-end two-channel or home-theater system. With selectable fixed or variable output, it can drive a preamp or power amplifier directly. Multiple digital inputs—including dual I²S, USB, AES3/XLR, coaxial, and optical—make it equally at home with network streamers, CD transports, SACD players, and computers.

Technology Overview

• Parallel DAC Architecture
  Four ES9038PRO chips per channel operating in parallel reduce distortion and increase dynamic range.
• Fully Discrete Class A Output
  No capacitors in the signal path; hand-matched JFET/BJT devices provide ultra-low distortion and excellent transient response.
• Galvanic Isolation & Reclocker
  All inputs are independently isolated, and incoming data is precisely reclocked to eliminate jitter.
• Precision Volume Control
  A fully balanced, 64-step, resistor-ladder attenuator ensures channel-matched levels without noise or digital artifacts.
• User-Selectable Filters
  Seven digital-filter options let you fine-tune frequency response and time-domain characteristics to suit any recording or system.

Key Features

• Quad-chip ES9038PRO DAC array per channel
• Fully balanced, capacitor-free Class A analog output stage
• Precision stepped attenuator volume control (variable mode)
• Galvanically isolated USB, dual I²S, dual AES3/XLR, coaxial, and optical inputs
• Fixed or variable balanced XLR and single-ended RCA outputs
• Seven digital filter presets for minimal phase or steep roll-off character
• Front-panel display and remote control for input selection, filters, and volume
• High-mass chassis and vibration-damped feet for mechanical stability
• Available in satin silver or satin black finishes