Orchard Audio Starkrimson Streamer Ultra: Modular Streamer Amplifier Based on PecanPi Streamer and Starkrimson Stereo

Orchard Audio continues its modular concept with the Starkrimson Streamer Ultra. Basically, the PecanPi streamer was simply attached to the Starkrimson Stereo. The result is a completely independent audiophile device to which, according to Starkrimson, it is enough to “just add speakers”.

The streaming part supports DLNA / UPnP rendering using Jriver, Plex, foobar2000, BubbleUPnP and other software media servers and players. AirPlay support is also announced. The unit is compatible with Tidal Connect, Qobuz, Amazon Alexa and Highresaudio.com.

All this versatility is complemented by Orchard Audio’s promised ultra-low jitter. System control is provided by the open source Volumio player. The streamer also acts as a Roon endpoint (certification passed). The novelty is controlled from any smartphone, tablet or PC.

Another part of the apparatus is a pair of Starkrimson Mono modular amplifiers. They use a patented double feedback modulator and fast gallium nitride (GaN) transistors.

According to the manufacturer, this balanced device has “extremely low noise and distortion” and a completely flat frequency response. The maximum power of the amplifier reaches up to 500 W in a channel on 4-ohm speakers, and a load of 2 ohms is also not prohibited.

The model is available by pre-order, and there are many options and options, ranging from the design of the case (black or silver, with or without print) to the voltage of the supply and the type of plug. You can also increase the capacitance of the capacitors in the power circuit and add a Wi-Fi module to the system (there are two to choose from), not to mention the choice of preinstalled software.

In the basic version in the United States, the Starkrimson Streamer Ultra will cost $3,500, of which the fastest buyers will be able to save $500 or even $750 starting discount.