Stax has unveiled its SRM-D10 II portable amplifier, featuring significant updates from the original SRM-D10. Thanks to hardware decoding and high-quality audio capacitors, Stax promises the new amp will deliver “unparalleled sound quality, ensuring every note is crisp and every detail is vivid.”

Stax is celebrating its 85th anniversary and tells us that the SRM-D10 II will complement all Stax PRO-type headphones, ensuring you can enjoy the full potential of your earspeakers. Stax tells us that one of the primary goals of the D10 II was to address the issue of sound dimming experienced over time in the older version. The result is a clearer and brighter sound profile, with subtle adjustments that ensure a consistently vibrant audio output.

Weighing 475g and sporting a rugged aluminium alloy shell that not only exudes a sleek, modern design but also offers higher strength and corrosion resistance, the SRM-D10 II is built to last.

The SRM-D10 II is equipped with a high-quality power amplifier, providing outstanding performance and remarkable power, allowing you to experience music in its purest form. Stax quotes a maximum output voltage of 200Vr.m.s / 100Hz-10kHz thanks to the amplifier's robust 580V DC bias, which is said to enhance the amplifier's output, resulting in a more dynamic and powerful soundstage. Additionally, the D10 II's spec sheet lists gain as 53dB (450 times) alongside a ≤0.025% / 1kHz-10kHz quoted harmonic distortion measurement.

Naturally, hi-res audio files are welcomed thanks to the AKM4493 decoder chip's support for DSD sampling rates up to DSD256 and PCM sampling rates up to 384kHz/32bit. Inputs are USB Type-C and 3.5mm analogue.

Douglas Ip, Head of Sales & Marketing, Stax International, told StereoNET:

This release shows our dedication to improving Stax transportability as well so that the Stax listener has the option to carry their in-ears or earspeakers with a quality portable amp. Ideally, this new iteration of the STAX portable amplifier will become a part of their audiophile toolbox.

The Stax SRM-D10 II will be on shelves in the first quarter 2024. We are informed that the improved MkII will sell for the same RRP as the MkI, so expect to pay around US$945.

Visit Stax for more information