$2,349.95
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This is a DIY kit that includes all the parts needed to assemble a Starkrimson Stereo Ultra amplifier in the desired configuration.
Soldering is required.
All About the Orchard Audio Starkrimson Stereo Ultra Do-It- Yourself (DIY) Kit …
The Starkrimson Stereo Ultra DIY Kit brings Orchard Audio’s award‑winning GaN amplifier technology to the hands of builders, hobbyists, and audio enthusiasts who want reference‑grade performance with the satisfaction of assembling it themselves. Built on the same architecture as our flagship Ultra series, this kit delivers exceptional resolution, lifelike dynamics, and effortless control — all in a compact, modular format designed for serious DIYers.
At its core is Orchard Audio’s proprietary dual‑feedback GaN Class‑D topology, switching at 0.8 MHz for unmatched speed, precision, and transparency. The result is an amplifier that behaves like a “flat wire with gain,” preserving the nuance, texture, and spatial detail of your recordings while delivering rock‑solid bass and outstanding transient response.
What Makes the Orchard Audio Starkrimson Stereo Ultra DIY Kit Special?
This kit isn’t just a collection of parts — it’s a pathway to building a world-class GaN amplifier with the same sonic DNA as the Starkrimson Stereo Ultra or the Ultra DMC.
Here’s a snapshot of the key performance highlights:
- 250 W into 8 Ω / 500 W into 4 Ω — serious power for demanding speakers
- GaN transistor technology for ultra-fast switching and phenomenal transient response
- Fully balanced signal path for low noise and ultra-clean amplification
- Proprietary dual-feedback architecture for exceptional clarity and musicality
- 2-ohm capable and 1-ohm stable for difficult speaker loads
- Modular, upgradable, and builder-friendly design for a smooth DIY experience
You get the same engineering pedigree as our finished amplifiers — but with the freedom to build, customize, and integrate it your way.
Designed for Real-World Music Lovers and DIY Enthusiasts
The Starkrimson Stereo Ultra DIY Kit is engineered for builders who want more than a generic Class-D module. It’s for those who appreciate:
- High-end GaN performance
- Low noise and low distortion
- Fast, controlled, and musical sound
- A clean, balanced architecture
- A rewarding hands-on build experience
Whether you’re assembling your first high-performance amplifier or adding a flagship-grade component to a custom system, the Starkrimson Stereo Ultra DIY Kit delivers the performance and refinement Orchard Audio is known for.
How the Orchard Audio Starkrimson Stereo Ultra GaN Power Amp Fits Into Your Audiophile System
The Orchard Audio Starkrimson Stereo Ultra is designed to integrate smoothly with balanced preamplifiers and sources. Orchard Audio intentionally focused on balanced XLR connectivity, but this amplifier has RCA inputs that convert the signal to a true balanced one before being sent to the amplifier stage
The Reviewers Are Raving About the Orchard Audio Starkrimson Ultra GaN Power Amps
The audiophile press is raving about the Orchard Audio Starkrimson Ultra GaN Power Amp. Here’s what they have to say…
Mark Marcantonio – Audio Pursuit (September 2025)
"Therefore, if you’re looking for terrific clarity, top notch, resolution, point point wiring, in high power, especially for speakers, such as Magnepans, I cannot encourage you enough if you’re in the market get in touch with Leo at Orchard Audio and give yourself some time with the Starkrimson Ultra or another one of his amplifiers, they are the real deal. My highest recommendation."
John Hoffman – Positive Feedback (September 2025)
"The Starkrimson Ultra Mono Premium amplifiers possess stellar vocal reproduction, and I was mightily impressed with how capable this affordable set of amplifiers is.” and “The reproduction of Branford Marsalis’ soprano saxophone on Mary Chapin Carpenter’s piece “John Doe No. 24″ is similarly impressive."
Mike Prager – Future Audiophile (January 2025)
"If you’d rather put every audiophile dollar towards performance, you and Orchard Audio’s Leo Ayzenshtat are on the same track (as am I), because for sound, these Starkrimsons rival or surpass any amp I’ve heard at anywhere near the price. They are perfect for any audiophile whose top priority is outstanding sound at a fair price.“Additional reviews can be found here:"
Product Specifications
Full product specifications at this link:
Read more here
Who is the Orchard Audio Starkrimson Stereo Ultra DIY Kit Best Suited For…?
This kit is ideal for:
- DIYers seeking flagship-level GaN performance
- Audiophiles who want a hands-on build experience
- Systems built around balanced preamps and modern DACs
- Listeners who value neutrality, transparency, and control
- Enthusiasts who want Ultra-series sound in a custom enclosure
- Builders working with difficult-to-drive speakers
It’s the perfect choice for anyone who wants to combine high-end audio performance with the satisfaction of building it themselves.
Want to Learn More?
In a world where many amplifiers cost far more than they’re worth, the Orchard Audio Stereo Ultra DMC stands out for delivering real performance where it counts — in your music. With its agile GaN-based design, balanced architecture, and solid power delivery, it gives listeners a taste of true high-fidelity, life-like sound without letting price or size define the experience.
Kit Configurations:
- XLR and RCA inputs ($2350) – equivalent to $2900 Starkrimson Stereo Ultra 2.5
- XLR and RCA inputs, and 12V Trigger ($2425) – equivalent to $3000 Starkrimson Stereo Ultra 2.5
- XLR and RCA inputs, dual mono, and cap boards ($3350) – equivalent to $4250 Starkrimson Stereo Ultra DMC 2.5
- XLR and RCA inputs, dual mono, cap boards, and 12V Trigger ($3425) – equivalent to $4350 Starkrimson Stereo Ultra DMC 2.5
NOTE: No additional instructions or directions/support are provided beyond the documentation on this website. If you do not feel comfortable assembling the kit with the provided information, please purchase a fully assembled unit. This product cannot be returned for a refund.
If you would like to purchase only the amplifier modules, please go here.
For additional information, see the Starkrimson Amplifiers FAQ.
Warranty / Return Policy
Three (3) year warranty included.
Return / Refund Policy
Customs Disclaimers (for non-U.S. customers):
Any customs fees are the customer's responsibility.
We won't under-value merchandise or mark the item as a gift on customs forms. Doing that violates U.S. and international law.
Shipping Information
| Weight | 18 lbs |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 20 × 18 × 6 in |
Gerard S. –
Great amp. As a kit, you’re on your own, the info is there in the many separate documents but I was tempted to email Leo for a bit of advice as many videos described him as super helpful and responsive. Maybe business is really good and he’s too busy now.
I was told twice in emails that he would no longer provide support for the kit. So I’m enjoying the amp, but every time I look at the logo on the faceplate, I’m reminded of the guy who’s pissed off at me.
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Leo A. –
Thank you for your feedback/review. I am glad you are enjoying the amplifier.
The website does very clearly state that no additional support is provided for the kit outside of the documentation already linked on the page.
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amiad d. –
I love the amplifier.
I found that I the instruction were missing some references (reference to docs that I could not locate or parts that were upgraded)
All was perfectly overcome between the docs / video.
It is not a complaint, rather stuff that can be improved:
– Missing instructions for the RCA/XLR connection point
– Power switch was modified – need update
– Screw list (that one would be great – which goes were)
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Leo A. –
Thank you for the review and feedback. Happy New Year!
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josh k. –
It’s an incredible deal. Former mastering engineer and this is one of the finest amps I’ve ever heard. I am out of the business but kept my mastering speakers, which now live in my workshop. I no longer have the proper listening space I did when I was working in audio which makes the revelation all the more impressive. The improvement is not subtle.
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Mark R. –
I chose this amplifier due to the technology and the positive reviews I had found. I was listening to a pair of solid-state Class A monoblocks that I have enjoyed for several years, but I had wanted to try something new. After completing the kit, I was overwhelmed by the quality and detail of the sound emanating from my speakers. Everything was more precise, and the soundstage had greater definition. No lies are coming from this amplifier! It is neither warm nor cold. It is not harsh or smooth. It highlights whatever is going on upstream and delivers that flawlessly to your speakers.
As far as my kit was concerned. All of my boards were complete. All the components arrived well-packed and worked fine. There were several extra screws and a couple of missing ones. . . Assembly was fairly straightforward. I would suggest that a wiring diagram be added to the documentation package. Trying to determine the wiring from the photos can be a bit of a challenge even for a career electronics tech such as myself.
I cannot recommend this amplifier enough. If you want to save some cash and feel like doing some assembly, I highly recommend the kit as well!
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Leo A. –
Thank you for the review and feedback. I am glad you are enjoying the amplifier.
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Brennen S. –
I got mine put together a couple days ago. It sounds phenomenal. I am running it with the Orchard Audio Premium Streamer. I’m using a custom 300b/2A3 pre because I’m a tube guy as well. Using SVS towers. From the moment it was on I could hear the difference. I heard it at Axpona last year but until you hear the difference through your own system it’s hard to describe. Leo is always available via WhatsApp which I don’t think you can say for any other company. My 2 year old decided to get into the hardware and I arranged for another set to be delivered which was fast. If you are not a great electronic builder like me you should know the video is for what I believe is an older module board with a hypex power board. This was different from what I bought which was the newer modules and the orchard audio boards. If you look at the pics and communicate with Leo and the ascend the orchard community it’s not a big deal, just be aware in case you’re wondering what you are missing. The videos really help with the enclosure assembly and capacitor upgrade if you choose that option.
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Leo A. –
Thank you for leaving the review and additional feedback. I am glad you are enjoying the amplifier.
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Nathan B. –
I have had the Starkrimson Ultra for a month now and am happy to now share my thoughts.
Firstly, the DIY option wasn’t as daunting as expected. Leo was really patient and helpful.
I can confidently say that I have never heard so much detail and layering in years of listening. Almost no smearing of instruments and vocals. Everything had its place and yes, I do have an excellent DAC, the Gustard X26 III. However it wasn’t anywhere near are clear and concise when I had it hooked up to my Vincent integrated amp. Also, I have no issues listening for hours on end with my delightful Monitor Audio Gold 50 6Gs. They are smallish but they now sound bigger in bass and more open with this current setup.
Only issue I came across, which is a ‘me’ problem, was I hadn’t anticipated the dramatic affect a low gain amp would have on listening levels compared to the likes of NAD and Vincent Ivet had in the past. I initially thought I had made errors in my DIY build due to the need to run my volume at -5 (near unity) for high volume levels. This was simply an adjustment I mentally had to make to relax and just enjoy the superb sound.
Behind the couch is also a set (dual) REL T/5x subs. Honestly it’s truly amazing, but could’ve lived without them since the Starkrimson controls bass and digs as deep as possible for the speakers ability and yet fully controlled.
Thanks heaps Leo.
System info:
Starkrimson Ultra DIY with upgraded capacitors
Gustard X26 III DAC used as PreAmp
Monitor Audio Gold 50 6G
Dual REL T/5x subs connected via high level
Now wanting to upgrade stands and speaker isolation with AUVA when I can save enough again. Took years to save for this setup.
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Robert F. –
The kit went together without a problem. It was actually less work than I expected. The result is an incredible amp. It makes my Bowers & Wilkins 801s sound like they should! The amp is really as good as advertised.
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Leo A. –
Thank you for the feedback. I am glad you are enjoying the amplifier with your B&W 801s.
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John B. –
The Starkrimson Stereo Ultra is a great piece of kit – relatively easy to build and really gives your system a good sound. Many thanks
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Leo A. –
Thank you for leaving a review. I am glad you are enjoying the amplifier.
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Dennis D. –
This has been the best sounding amp I have ever used with my equipment by far including class A, AB, and my former class D unit that I used for 13 years. I’m driving Martin Logan Summit X with ease. Loads of detail and everything else, not a bit of harshness. I couldn’t be happier. HiFi bliss!
Thanks Leo!
Dennis
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Leo A. –
Thanks for the feedback, Dennis. I am always happy to hear the amplifier is doing exactly what it was designed for.
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Ravi G. –
The DIY kit for the OA SK U DMC was a breeze to assemble. The new design is much more straightforward compared to earlier versions, with well-organized internals that are neatly isolated. All components are included and well-packed, making the process smooth.
The only drawback with the DIY kit is that you won’t be able to test or measure the unit using specialized equipment, which most households likely don’t have. Leo might have those tools, but for the average user, after assembly, you’ll need to test the amp on a live system and rely on your ears—and maybe your nose—to ensure everything is working properly.
Leo is extremely helpful and quick to respond to any questions, so I had no trouble putting it together. As for the sound, the amp is as impressive as everyone says. While the design is industrial and basic, the sound quality is top-notch!
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Leo A. –
Thank you for the feedback. I am glad you are enjoying the product. I always aim for 5-start service and am satisfied to see this was the case here.
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Peter B. –
This amp is a great value. Especially if you have the capability to buy the kit and DIY it! It’s not hard to assemble and there is minimal soldering that needs to be done. Basically the PS and Amp module boards are already completed the unit just needs to be assembled and interconnecting wires installed properly.
The sound quality and dynamics are incredible. My current setup includes a NAD 3045D for the streamer/pre-amp paired to two CSS Criton 1TDX bookshelf speakers (with upgraded crossover). In the past, I was using the NAD for the pre and power amp since it is an integrated. When I put the Starkrimson into the system the soundstage opened up, distortion went down (especially at higher levels since the CSS speakers are hard to drive), details really increased and instruments were more defined and separated. A new softer/sweeter sound came to life. I get the feeling sometimes while listened to certain recordings that the sound is not coming from speakers its like live listening! I also noticed that there is less distortion/shearing on the vocalists when singing with an ‘S’.
Next step is perhaps an Eversolo DMP A6 streamer, Geshelli Labs JNOG2 socketed DAC (with sparko op-amps), and Shitt Freya+ preamp. I’ll update my review after I get some new gear to improve the system further.
Warning: be careful this product may be harmful to your health (staying up too late because you will not be able to stop listening…), and possibly your marriage…
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Leo A. –
Thank you for your insightful review. The Starkrimson’s value proposition, particularly for DIY enthusiasts, is evident in your experience. The sonic improvements you describe, including the wider soundstage, reduced distortion, and enhanced clarity, are compelling. I appreciate the detailed comparison and look forward to hearing your thoughts on future system upgrades.
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Gary S. –
Purchase was smooth. Leo made paying a breeze.I have a fair amount of electrical knowledge so I decided to just build the Ultra 2. I did run into a wiring state of confusion and emailed Leo (which is in itself is a rarity to actually converse with the owner and designer of the product) and he was very helpful in helping get past the confusion I was having. He is a great down to earth guy that cares.
Plugged her in using a Rogue Audio RH 5 preamp (Rogue also, great, I have had Mark Obrien on the phone) Eversolo DMP A6 DAC and streamer and it works perfectly and sounds wonderful. So much so I will add second power supply and caps when available. Highly recommended!
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Leo A. –
Thank you for choosing our product and sharing your positive experience! We’re delighted that your purchase process was smooth and that Leo’s assistance proved helpful during the wiring phase. It’s fantastic to hear that your Ultra 2.0, paired with Rogue Audio components, is delivering wonderful sound. Leo takes pride in connecting with customers and ensuring a great experience. We appreciate your recommendation and look forward to offering additional enhancements, like the second power supply and caps, in the future. If you ever have further questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out. Happy listening!
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Bryan H. –
I finished building my kit a couple of weeks ago. It took me about 4 hours to complete over a couple of two hour sessions. All of my questions, mostly details about pin-outs, were answered by Leo very quickly. I then proceeded to do some basic frequency sweeps of both channels on my bench and everything seemed to be working fine. I had intended to do Bode plots and power tests but I was so anxious to try out my new amp with music I skipped all that and installed it in my system rack. I have to confess that I originally bought this kit because (1) I thought it would be fun to build (it was). (2) I wanted to try out GAN FET technology (I am impressed) and (3) to see if maybe an amp could actually sound significantly better considering the remarkable data you show on your site as well as Eddy’s test results in his KISS YouTube video. I had very guarded exceptions on the 3rd reason. So I started what ended up being around 8 hours of listening the day I finished the amp. Just sounded so good it was hard to stop listening.
Boy was I surprised. This amp sounded better, not just a little bit as I had expected. I lot better. This is a VERY fast amp. By fast I mean kind of like how electrostatic speakers are fast, completely resolving the music. It was like it stripped away an unfocused layer I was, until this point, unaware of. I remember bringing in my Crown amp to the stereo store when I was auditioning the Magnapan LRS’s I ended up buying. We had compared driving them with a $6000 Macintosh amp to compare with my Crown XLS 1502 amp I brought with me. At the time while I was mildly impressed with the Macintosh I distinctly remember feeing that while it was better it was no where near $6000 or 6X better.
That was not the case with the StarKrimson. The stripping always of the out of focus layer of sound I had grown accustomed to brought with it a whole new listening experience. I’m not one to generally use common audiophile descriptive terms but in this case I’m at a loss for a better set of words. The music became much more holographic. Imaging that was in my opinion quite good with the old amp became spot on. The sound stage opened up significantly as well. Initially for the first few days I only listened using my Buchardt S400 MKII speakers.
I also have listened to my LRS’s since then. They sound even better as well but I have to admit I like the Buchardt’s the best for most of my listening.
The engineer in me finds this a bit hard to explain but I’m thinking the remarkable lack of phase change over the entire audio spectrum coupled with the significantly faster GAN FETS are probably the underlying reasons this amp sounds so good.
Historically equipment that tests great on the bench has proven to be too harsh and/or just unimpressive, thus my lowered expectations.
That is not the case here.
Thanks for a really exceptional amp!
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Leo A. –
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your detailed experience with our amplifier kit. We’re thrilled to hear about your positive impressions and the enjoyment you’ve derived from the build process and subsequent listening sessions.
It’s particularly gratifying to learn I, was able to promptly address your inquiries, contributing to a smooth assembly experience. Your insights into the sonic improvements brought about by the GAN FET technology and the meticulous design of the Starkrimson Ultra amplifier are truly appreciated.
I am delighted that the amp exceeded your expectations, delivering a significantly enhanced listening experience with a more holographic soundstage and improved imaging. Your comparison with other amps and acknowledgment of the amp’s speed are valuable insights that we believe will be helpful to other enthusiasts.
Thank you for choosing our kit, and we’re honored to have contributed to your audio journey. If you ever have more questions or feedback, feel free to reach out. Happy listening!
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Kim B. –
What a great product. Congratulations
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Leo A. –
Thank you.
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Nick M. –
I would have to say it boils down to taste and system matching, very very detailed
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