Orchard Audio Upgrades Starkrimson Ultra Stereo Amps with an Active RCA Input Option

Orchard Audio's 500W Starkrimson Ultra stereo amplifiers received a big upgrade. Revision 2.5 builds upon revision 2.0 by adding a built-in active RCA-to-XLR converter. This means the amplifiers can now be used with both single-ended (RCA) and balanced (XLR) sources. With this upgrade even when using the single-ended source the signal to the amplifier is fully balanced. An active RCA to XLR converter is also available from Orchard as a separate product.
 
Rev 2.5 of the Starkrimson Stereo Ultra 500W per channel GaN amplifier, which also includes the dual-mono DMC model, now has a built-in RCA to XLR converter. The amplifier can be used with both RCA and XLR sources, but when using the RCA inputs, users can then use an XLR cable from the two XLR Outs to the standard XLR inputs. According to Orchard Audio, the gain of the amplifier from the XLR inputs is 19dB. However, using the amplifier with RCA sources connected to the converter in this way, the gain increases to 27 dB.

"This has been a highly requested feature by customers and I am happy to offer this upgrade along with the additional functionality/flexibility it provides to customers. We are always cost-engineering every possible detail in our products to deliver ultra-high levels of performance for the lowest possible price. For some people, the savings on not needing new cables can be the difference between making a purchase and not, and our goal is to get as many audiophiles owning and loving our gear," explains Leo Ayzenshtat, Orchard Audio’s owner and lead designer.
 
"Using an RCA to XLR adapter breaks the balanced input on the amplifier because 1/2 of the XLR input is shorted to the RCA's shield. Depending on the design of the balanced input this can have multiple undesirable effects. A transformer-based converter can work well as long as it is properly matched to both the RCA and XLR side impedances. However, even if it is properly matched the transformer creates AC coupling which causes bass phase shift. Using a DC-coupled active converter, like this one, all the issues associated with the first two approaches are eliminated," Ayzenshtat adds.

The active RCA to XLR converter is also available as a separate product for $300. The Stereo RCA to XLR Converter is an ultra-high performance, completely transparent truly balanced converter, ensuring seamless compatibility and enhanced audio quality. The converter also opens up a world of possibilities for audio enthusiasts and professionals, whether connecting studio equipment or optimizing any home setup.  The unbalanced to balanced converter design incorporates ultra-high performance op-amps from Burr-Brown (Texas Instruments), including the OPA1612 and OPA1632. It also uses two extremely low noise linear regulators (LDOs), Analog Devices LT3042 and LT3090, to achieve the best possible performance.

All products are available to purchase directly from Orchard Audio’s website.
www.orchardaudio.com