PS Audio · dac · House of Stereo
Parallel conversion. A discrete analog finish.
StellarGold DAC is a dedicated digital-to-analog converter for a computer, digital transport, or separate streamer. Its parallel conversion architecture feeds a fully balanced, discrete analog output stage.
One DAC. A network streamer is separate if network music is required.
StellarGold DAC
Conversion through multiple paths
PS Audio’s implementation uses four DACs in parallel for each channel with ESS ES9038PRO technology. A discrete Class A output circuit built around JFET and bipolar devices carries the resulting analog signal to the outputs. The design separates digital conversion from the analog stage rather than ending the signal path at the converter chip.
StellarGold DAC
Choose the input for your source
USB connects a compatible computer or streamer; I²S connects a compatible digital transport, and coaxial or optical inputs accommodate other sources. The HDMI-shaped I²S connector is an audio interface with a specific pin arrangement, not an HDMI television connection. StellarGold does not include a network streamer. Its volume control can be used where the downstream system is configured appropriately.
Make it work in your system
Thoughtful setup makes the difference.
Match the digital input
Select the connection your transport or computer supports. Sample-rate and DSD limits vary by interface.
Check output mode
Use fixed output into a preamplifier. If using variable output directly with amplification, configure it carefully at a low starting level.
Confirm I²S compatibility
An HDMI-shaped I²S connector is not a television HDMI port. Confirm pin configuration and format support at both ends.
The details that matter
Specifications
| Converter | ESS ES9038PRO; four DACs in parallel per channel |
|---|---|
| Analog stage | Fully balanced, discrete Class A JFET / bipolar |
| Digital inputs | Two I²S, two coaxial, one optical, one USB |
| USB formats | PCM through 384 kHz; DSD through DSD128 |
| I²S formats | PCM through 768 kHz; DSD through DSD256 |
| Analog outputs | RCA 2 V RMS; XLR 4 V RMS |
| Dimensions | 17 W × 3 H × 12 D in |
| Weight | 22.5 lb / 10.2 kg |
| Power consumption | 30 W |
| Mains voltage | Model-specific; confirm your regional version |
Ratings are manufacturer specifications. Check the linked manual for complete operating conditions, regional requirements, and installation instructions.
Before you choose
Common questions
Can I use it with a preamplifier?
Yes. Connect its analog outputs to a suitable line input and configure output level as described in the manual.
Can I connect I²S to a TV’s HDMI port?
No. The connector shape does not make this a television HDMI interface. I²S compatibility must be checked with the audio source.
Keep researching.
Read the manufacturer’s owner’s guide (PDF)
