PS Audio Stellar Gain Cell DAC

About this product

Stream High-Res PCM and DSD with Fingertip Control, Enjoy Pure Native Performance and 3D Sound: Fully Balanced PS Audio Stellar Gain Cell DAC/Preamp Touts Digital Lens, Analog Switching
PS Audio's fully balanced Stellar Gain Cell DAC marries a DSD-capable DAC with a complete analog preamplifier control center in a U.S.-built high-end component whose affordable cost belies its full suite of functions, features, and performance. Based on an upgraded version of PS Audio's NuWave DSD, and anchored by a 32-bit ESS Sabre Hyperstream DAC with passive analog filtering, Gain Cell accepts inputs from any digital source – including I²S and USB from computers. Able to asynchronously handle 24-bit/192kHz PCM and up to 2x DSD, Gain Cell doubles as a high-resolution server when paired with a USB cable and computer, operated with server software like JRiver, and controlled via a smart device. Every signal is accepted in native mode and without sample-rate conversion, then fed into a Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD) that utilizes proprietary Digital Lens technology to reclock the data, reduce jitter, and diminish propagation delay. Three digital filters provide even more options and flexibility with your current – and future – components. In laymen's terms: Gain Cell makes music sound incredibly three-dimensional, spacious, rich, and lively.

Gain Cell's analog preamplifier section matches the build and character of the DAC in every way via high-grade parts and boasting a novel solution to the classic volume-control problems associated with all preamps. Instead of inserting an additional level control in the signal path, variable gain cell topology lets the preamplifier's actual amplifier stage vary its gain in response to the user's front-panel volume control. This method requires no additional circuitry in the signal path and offers more than 80dB of attenuation. What's more, Gain Cell touts 100% analog input switching in the DAC so that no matter from where the signals emanate, be it the DAC or an external phono preamp, they are fully preserved and sacrifice nothing in translation. Balanced and single-ended outputs, a headphone amplifier, and a remote control round out a piece that is nothing short of Stellar.

“Unboxing the sleek Stellars they felt more upmarket than your typical receiver, that's for sure. The Stellars quickly established their superiority in transparency and tonality…”
—Steve Guttenberg, CNET, August 2017

“With the GCD, everything is completely transparent. In fact, for me, that's its greatest strength: the Stellar Gain Cell DAC allows you to seamlessly, transparently switch between sources, increase gain, and make meaningful sound adjustments, all the while calling zero attention to itself.”
—Tom Gibbs, Positive Feedback

SKU

UTRA1418101

Warranty

This unit comes with a 45 day Music Direct warranty.

What's Included:

Original packaging and box included.
Accessories: Remote control, AAA batteries (2x), PS audio stickers (4x), power cord, and user's manual

Notes

9/10 condition, with no cosmetic issues. Sonically flawless!

Specifications

Volume Control: 0-100 (1/2 and 1dB steps, 80dB total range)
Balance Control: 24dB each direction in 1/2dB steps
Home Theater Mode: Assignable to any analog input
Adjustable (in setup) to any level
Polarity (phase) Control: Digital sources only
Filter Control: 3 selectable digital filters (PCM digital sources only)
Trigger output: (3.5mm 5-15VDC) 2
Remote Control: Yes. Infra Red
Input Power: Model specific 100VAC, 120VAC, or 230VAC 50 or 60Hz
Power Consumption: 20W
Mains Power Input: IEC C14
Fuses:
100V T250V-2.0AH (2A Slow Blow)
120V T250V-1.6AH (1.6A Slow Blow)
230V T250V-1.0AH (1.0A Slow Blow)
Weight: 13.5 lbs.
Dimensions: 17" x 3" x 12"

Shipping Policy

Shipping for this item is free in the CONUS. If you require shipping to Alaska, Hawaii, or Puerto Rico, please contact us first before making an offer.

Payment details

We accept all major credit cards. If you'd like to purchase this using a PayPal account, add 3% to the transaction.

Returns

This product comes with a 14 day return policy. If you're not satisfied with it's performance, let us know and we'll be happy to help. In the rare case this product comes to you defective, we'll pick up the shipping charges to bring it back here.

Contact Information

Have questions? Feel free to call us at 800-449-8333. We're happy to help!