Martin Virgo of Audiograde reviewed the Burson Conductor Stellar in its Standard version and gave it the Audiograde Recommended award. He used it as a headphone amplifier, as a DAC, and as a DAC and preamp in two speaker systems.
The Class A sound made an impression straight away. With his Quad planar headphones he had an immediate “oh wow” moment, and his Editor enjoyed the Stellar too.
He loves the half-width form factor and the brushed silver finish with copper sides. The solid metal remote is so substantial that he joked it “could double up as a personal protection device”.
He highlights the ESS ES9039PRO DAC, the dedicated IEM module that reduces noise, and the Max Current Power Supply with Onsemi transistors. He also vouches for the Silent Power modules built around LT3045 regulators. The DAC filter settings make a genuine difference, and he tuned them to suit his Linn Kans.
In his nearfield system with Bel Canto S300 and Naim NAP140 power amps and Chartwell LS3/5a speakers, and with a Chord Alto integrated (“enjoyment on steroids”), the Stellar needs a short settling time from cold. After that, “Class A clarity is back in spades”. On Procol Harum’s Conquistador he wrote: “you can feel it – bravo!” Other test tracks included Led Zeppelin’s Kashmir, Dave Brubeck’s Take Five and Phil Collins.
He would like a printed manual or info card in the box and savable settings presets. He also notes a power-on/off thump through speakers unless the volume is turned down (Burson confirms this is safe and the unit has protection), and an auto-off after 20 minutes, which can be disabled. The preamp section is digital-only.
Martin calls the Conductor Stellar an “excellent pre/DAC/headphone amp as its Class A qualities shine through”, and a “musical, well styled, versatile and attractive unit at an affordable price”. He considers it ideal for digital source enthusiasts.
Read the full review on Audiograde.
Discover the full features and specifications on the Burson Conductor Stellar product page.
