About The STAX SRM-270S Headphone Amplifier
The STAX SRM-270S is a dedicated driver unit designed specifically for STAX ear speakers. This headphone amplifier is engineered to provide exceptional sound quality and versatility. Its line input allows direct connection to various audio sources such as CD players, portable audio players, or PCs, making it a versatile addition to any audio setup. The SRM-270S is built with the latest high-voltage transistors and low-noise FETs, ensuring clear and powerful audio output. The emitter-follower configuration of the output stage not only enhances the driving performance but also ensures a smooth and natural sound quality, bringing out the finest nuances in the music.
Despite its compact size, the SRM-270S incorporates an ultra-low noise solid state amplifier design. This design choice ensures that the amplifier can faithfully reproduce even the most subtle details of the audio signal. The internal heat generated during operation is efficiently dissipated through the aluminium extrusion material of the chassis, significantly improving the reliability and longevity of the device. This careful consideration of thermal management highlights STAX's commitment to producing high-quality, durable audio equipment.
The amplifier is housed in a larger aluminium extrusion case with a 3mm-thick front panel, which not only aids in effective heat management but also contributes to the unit's sleek and robust design. The high-grade connectivity options, including RCA connectors, ensure a pristine connection to various audio sources, maintaining the integrity of the audio signal. This meticulous attention to detail in both design and functionality makes the SRM-270S a reliable and high-performing headphone amplifier.
The compact chassis of the SRM-270S makes it easy to place and transport, adding to its aesthetic appeal and practicality. Its flexible installation options, including parallel out terminals, allow for easy integration into existing audio systems. Whether you're using it to enhance your music listening experience or to provide superior audio quality for movies at your desktop or bedside, the SRM-270S delivers unparalleled clarity and performance. Overall, the STAX SRM-270S stands out as a top-tier headphone amplifier, combining high-quality components, thoughtful design, and exceptional audio performance.
Why Electrostatic Headphones?
Electrostatic headphones operate on a different principle than conventional "dynamic" or "moving coil" designs. In a conventional headphones there is a coil of wire inside a magnet, generally glued to a stiff cone or dome that's held in place with a springy suspension. This makes in more difficult to re-create detail in playback due to mass. Or to put simply there are more heavy moving parts.
Pioneered by STAX in 1959 – an electrostatic design works by placing a static (non-moving) electric charge on a film that floats between two perforated metal plates. When audio voltages are applied across the plates, static cling and repulsion causes the entire film to move by itself. This film is so thin, it effectively weighs less than the air around it, and has no resonances or energy storage which leads to distortion inherent in moving coil speakers.
These factors are one of many reasons why STAX electrostatic Headphones sound so much better than conventional designs. During play back the listener is experiencing minimal interference from the headphone speaker itself, in turn bringing you that much closer to the original artist's performance.
Our Take
The STAX SRM-270S is a high-performance headphone amplifier designed for STAX ear speakers, offering exceptional sound quality and versatility. It features line input for direct connection to various audio sources like CD players and PCs, making it a versatile addition to any audio setup. Built with the latest high-voltage transistors and low-noise FETs, the SRM-270S ensures clear, powerful audio output with a smooth, natural sound. Its compact amplifier design efficiently dissipates heat through an aluminium extrusion chassis, enhancing reliability and longevity. With high-grade connectivity options and flexible installation, the SRM-270S is a top-tier amplifier for unparalleled audio clarity and performance.
Main Features & Specifications
- Design: Headphone Amplifier/Energiser for STAX Electrostatic Headphones
- Recommended STAX Headphones: SR-X1, SR-L300, SR-L500 MK2, SR-L700 MK2
- Frequency Response: DC to 35,000Hz/+0, -3dB
- Harmonic Distortion: 0.01% or less/1kHz 100V
- Amplification: 58dB
- Rated Input Level: 125mV/100V output
- Maximum Output Voltage: 280V/1kHz
- Input Impedance: 25kΩ
- Input Terminals: Stereo RCA Inputs x 1
- Output Terminals: Parallel RCA Outputs x 1
- Bias Voltage: 580V DC
- Power Supply Voltage: 100V AC adapter included
- Power Consumption: 12VDC/500mA
- Dimensions (WxHxD): 132 x 38 x 153mm
- Weight: 540 g
- Manufacturer's Warranty: 1 Year
Note: Features & Specifications Subject To Change Without Notice. E&OE.