Stellar Strata mk2 firmware update strata2_v2.6.1

PSaudio released a new firmware update for the Strata mk2 integrated: v2.6.1.

Since I’m experiencing some issues with the sample rate and bit depth with my CD player and the Chinese i2s converter, I’m going to try this one :slightly_smiling_face:

so far I did not succeed… the Strata recognises the drive, but it hangs in “Retrieving file list…”

I contacted the PSaudio help desk, maybe I’m making a silly mistake :smiling_face:

Hello.

I had the same problem, had to go with the process using the image.bin file, that worked in the first try. Updating from the system menu never worked.

Now, the issues with the sample bit rate are partially resolved :confused:. Coaxial inputs now show the sample rate, but in my case it’s stuck at 44.1 kHz, the bit rate is correct. I know that my source is transmitting at higher frequencies, and music is heard correctly from the Strata, but the display only shows 44.1.

I2S inputs still show disconnected (red light) when playing music :man_facepalming:.

What streamer are you using?

Since my original post I’ve been in contact with Support Specialist Delia. Although she pleasantly does all she can my Strata still doesn’t want to load the update. I think I’m doing something clumsy; apparently the Strata doesn’t like the “ghost” files that MacOS puts on the disk and I’m not a Windows-guy :smiling_face:

Later this evening I’ll try to install the image.bin file again :+1:

I just tried “method 2” again: Formatted the USB stick as FAT32 using Window’s PowerShell. Copied the image.bin file to the stick. Unfortunately when the Strata starts up, from the white PSaudio logo screen it just jumps directly to the previously selected input channel… I hope Delia will find a solution :smiling_face:

Fiio S15 currently. But also had a iFi Stream that had the same issue, haven’t tried with that recently.

@joaquind, which firmware did your Strata have before updating to v2.6.1 ?

Hello. Oops, it was the original that came with the Strata, “v2.4.something” I believe. I bought mine in May 2024, and haven’t updated it since new.

I bought mine in January this year, I’m now trying to update the original firmware (v2.5,1) to v2.6.1.

After putting it aside for some time, I gave it a try again this weekend. The two procedures that are in the Firmware Update Instructions again didn’t work: the Strata just doesn’t recognise the USB stick…

Then I noticed the “factory reset”, the Strata would restart automatically after performing a factory reset. I was wondering what would happen if I would leave the update stick in the Strata during the reset. It worked!

The new firmware, 6.2.1, did solve many of the problems I encountered with the bitrate indication. It only doesn’t work when I play an SACD with my Sony BluRay player connected to the Strata using the Chinese HDMI-I2S converter.

Last year, when exchanging e-mails with PSaudio support, I asked if it would be possible to add “Tape” to the list of assignable input names. It’s a pity they haven’t done that yet…

All in all. I’m really happy with my Strata Mk2 :grinning_face_with_smiling_eyes: