PS Audio Stellar Strata, Owner'S Reference Manual

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10
Stellar Strata Amplifier
Getting Started
®
Analog Inputs Refer to the picture of the back panel on page eight.
The Stellar Strata Amplifier has three stereo analog inputs that can be used to connect analog
sources such as phono preamplifiers, tuners, and tape decks.
Input #1 has both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) connectors. It is intended that only
one of these connectors be used at a time, although the unit has been designed to prevent damage
to both itself and the connected equipment if this were to happen. Use the balanced (XLR) inputs
for your most critical analog source, typically your phono preamplifier.
Input #2 has only unbalanced (RCA) connectors.
Input #3 is a special input with two different operating modes. With the default settings the unit
is shipped from the factory with, this input will behave as a normal input the same as Input #2.
However this input can also be configured as a “Fixed Volume” input. In this mode the volume
setting is fixed to a user-defined level, and is unaffected by the main volume control. This is
useful when using the Stellar Strata Amplifier as the front left and right channels in a system that
also has a home theater processor. See the menu section of this manual for details on how to
configure Input #3 for Fixed Volume mode.
Analog Output The Stellar Strata Amplifier has one stereo analog output that can be used to connect an
additional amplifier or powered subwoofer.
Digital Inputs The Stellar Strata Amplifier has six stereo digital inputs that can be used to connect digital
sources such as CD transports, computers, and the internet.
Input #4 is an I2S input. I2S is the standard connection method that almost all the IC chips inside
a digital audio product use and has separate wires for the data and the clocks. By connecting your
equipment using this connection you can be assured that the audio information is delivered with
the absolute minimum amount of processing. It can be connected to a PS Audio PWT, DMP, or
many other third party pieces of equipment. The I2S input uses standard HDMI cables for the
connection. Please note that although HDMI cables are used, the connector is not compatible
with HDMI and you cannot connect this input to the HDMI output on a disc player or other
device. The I2S input can accept up to 384KHz 24 bit PCM or native DSD128 source material.