STAX SRM-270S

STAX SRM-270S Headphone Amplifier

The STAX SRM-270S is an electrostatic headphone amplifier designed and manufactured by the renowned Japanese audio company STAX. This device is specifically engineered to get the best performance out of the STAX SR-X1 headphones. Compact and stylish, it delivers top-tier sound quality.

Amplification Technology

At the heart of the SRM-270S is STAX’s proprietary amplification technology, specially designed to drive their electrostatic headphones. Unlike traditional dynamic headphones, electrostatic headphones require a high-voltage amplifier to charge the thin diaphragm suspended between two perforated electrodes.

The SRM-270S uses a high-voltage, low-noise amplification circuit that delivers a clean and powerful signal to the headphones. This design allows for an exceptionally wide frequency response, low distortion, and excellent transient response, resulting in highly detailed and accurate sound reproduction.

Sound Quality

The SRM-270S excels in reproducing the nuances and subtleties of recordings, allowing listeners to hear details that may be missed with other headphone systems. The amplifier’s wide frequency response ensures that the deepest bass notes and the highest treble frequencies are reproduced with clarity and precision.

The soundstage presented by the SRM-270S is vast and three-dimensional, creating a sense of space and depth that immerses the listener in the music. Instruments and vocals are precisely placed within the soundstage, allowing for excellent separation and precise imaging.

Compatibility and Versatility

The STAX SRM-270S is designed to work exclusively with STAX electrostatic headphones. The amplifier is compatible with a wide range of STAX models, including the new SR-X1 and the rest of the lineup. This compatibility ensures that users can select the headphones that best match their preferences and budget.

While the SRM-270S is primarily intended for use with electrostatic headphones, it can also be connected to a preamplifier or other audio source via its RCA inputs. This allows the amplifier to be integrated into a larger hi-fi system, offering users the flexibility to enjoy their music through multiple listening setups.

Key Benefits

• Wide frequency response, low distortion, and excellent transient response
• Elegant and durable aluminum chassis with a minimalist design
• Compatible with a wide range of STAX electrostatic headphones
• Can be integrated into a larger hi-fi system via RCA inputs
• Meticulously assembled using high-quality components
• Offers highly detailed, transparent, and spacious sound reproduction

Technical Specifications

Audio Performance

• Frequency response: DC to 35,000 Hz (+0, -3 dB)
• Harmonic distortion: ≤ 0.01% at 1 kHz and 100 V RMS
• Gain: 58 dB (× 800)
• Nominal input level: 125 mV for 100 V RMS output
• Maximum output voltage: 280 V RMS at 1 kHz
• Input impedance: 25 kΩ

Connectivity

• Input: 1 RCA connector
• Output: 1 parallel output

Power Supply

• Bias voltage: 580 V DC
• Power supply voltage: 12 V DC, 500 mA (power adapter included)
• Consumption: 500 mA at 12 V DC

Physical Characteristics

• Overall dimensions:
  • Width: 132 mm
  • Height: 38 mm
  • Depth: 153 mm
• Weight: 540 g