Starkrimson Amplifiers FAQ
What are some preamps that you recommend?
I have had multiple customers report being happy with one of the following:
— Benchmark LA4
— Topping Pre90
— Gustard X26
— SMSL HO200
If you are specifically looking for a tube or hybrid preamp, here are some options that customers have reported work well:
— Schitt Freya+
— Black Ice preamps
— Rogue preamps
— Supratek preamps
Also, note that if you plan on using one of our PecanPi or PecanPi+ products they act as a preamp as well, and a preamp is not needed, unless you need the additional functionality of switching inputs.
Can the amplifiers be upgraded in the future?
Yes. My amplifiers use a modular design, and each module can be upgraded in the future. Also if you purchase a lower-cost amplifier configuration and want to upgrade in the future this is possible, for example upgrading from the Stereo Ultra to the Stereo Ultra DMC.
Can the amplifier be connected to a subwoofer (sub) using the high-level input?
Yes. Ensure you follow the subwoofer manufacturer’s instructions for connecting a fully differential amplifier. This is also the method that I recommend for integrating subs into your system.
What voicing does the amplifier have?
My amplifiers are designed not to have any voicing. They are neutral, transparent, and true to the source. What you feed in is what you get out (straight wire with gain).
Will the 150W amps be enough power for me?
Please read my other blog post at this link, this will help you make this decision.
For certain types of speakers I recommend the Ultra (500W) amplifiers, they are:
— Electrostatic speakers
— Magneplanar speakers (Magnepan)
Is it ok to leave the amplifier on all the time?
Yes. All Orchard Audio amplifiers use very little power when idling.
What is the difference in sound between the Starkrimson (150W) and Starkrimson Ultra (500W) amplifier models?
As you go up in price with my amplifiers the bass performance and transient response improve. Above 300Hz the amplifiers will sound similar.
Also, note that while the monoblock versions of my amps have similar performance to the stereo ones, monoblocks can be placed close to the speaker using very short speaker cables, this gives them the advantage when used this way.
Amplifier performance starting from the top:
Starkrimson Mono Ultra Premium LPS — $6,000 per pair — 250/500W (500/1000Wpeak) into 8/4ohm
Starkrimson Mono Ultra Premium — $5000 per pair — 250/500W (500/1000Wpeak) into 8/4ohm
Starkrimson Stereo Ultra DMC — $4000 — 250/500W (500/1000Wpeak) into 8/4ohm
Starkrimson Stereo Ultra — $2650 — 250/500W (500/1000Wpeak) into 8/4ohm
Starkrimson Mono Premium — $2500 per pair — 150W (300W peak) into 8/4ohm
Starkrimson Duo/Trio — $1750 — 150W (300W peak) into 8/4ohm
