Audiophilepure

PS Audio Stellar Strata Mk2 integrated amplifiers Review, Part 1 of 2

The unorthodox system configuration is to use stereo integrated amplifiers in what I like referring to as a faux mono configuration. Unlike the Pathi’s class A/B output which could be summed to mono, both the Billie Amp Mk2 and the PS Audio Stellar Strata Mk2 have class D amplifiers, meaning the two channels cannot be summed. Initially, I thought that precluded use with single wired speakers, but perhaps I could employ only one channel to drive single wired speakers. I have not tried it, but certainly will eventually. But before I do, I will ask about any potential strain/stress to the integrated amp if using only one channel. Better to ask than find out the hard way!

That brings up a point about alternative configurations. Most manufacturers don’t support such configurations, and the assumption is that the audiophile is on their own, meaning no warranty support. It is possible that PS Audio will not support the system configurations I discuss here and warn the user that it would void the warranty. I believe that what I have done in system configurations presents no harm to PS Audio equipment and would hope that the company supports the alternative configuration rather than condemn it. But I will say up front, the results are so good that I will continue to use it regardless of the company’s decision.

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