STAX SR-003 mk2 and STAX SRM-D10
Detailed, rich, light, chilling, ecstatic, these are just some of the words I would use to describe this combination! This Stax combination is quite an experience, and in this review, we will discuss this at length. The Stax SR-003 MK2 Ear Speakers are $350, and the portable Stax SRM-D10 DAC/AMP is $945.
Specifications
STAX SR-003 mk2
Type: Push-Pull electrostatic circular sound element, In-The-Earcanal type enclosure
Frequency Response: 20-20kHz (4dB)
Capacitance: 44pF (including cable)
Sensitivity: 110dB / 100V r.m.s. 1 kHz
Bias Voltage: 550-580V DC
Ear Pads: Silicone earbuds (Small, Medium, or Large) Medium included
Cable: parallel 6-core, 1.5m full length
Weight: 0.4oz without cable / 1oz with cable
You can find more information here. SR-003 MKII Portable In-ear Earspeaker – STAX Headphones
You also have the option of other Ear tips with the CES-A1. Using this allows for are more comfortable fit.
You can find more information here. https://stax-international.com/products/ces-a1/
I will discuss this later in the review.
STAX SRM-D10
5-pin PRO bias Stax earspeaker output
MicroUSB digital input,
3.5mm analog input
Frequency response: 20Hz - 40KHz (+0dB,-3dB)
Rated input level: 230mV (100V output)
Harmonic distortion: <0.025% / 1KHz-10KHz
Input impedance: 10 KΩ (analog input)
Maximum output voltage: 200Vr.m.s / 100Hz-10KHz
Power consumption: 6.4W (USB input) 5W (analog input)
Recommended operating temperature: 0-35°C, <90% RH (No condensation)
Dimensions: 75(W) X 32(H) X 141(D) mm
Net weight: 450g
Voltage: 100-240V/50-60HZ
Supply voltage: DC 14V (charger included)
Warranty: 1-year U.S. limited warranty
You can find more information here. The world's first compact electrostatic amp/DAC – STAX Headphones
Let’s Take a Deeper Dive
The STAX SR-003 MK-2 is what could be referred to as a baby STAX, and they would be right in some respect. Light, the ability to go anywhere, is discrete, but I think that is where it stops. I love the beauty, the detail, and speed that makes them a STAX. They may not be as fulfilled as their compatriots, but wow!
Included with the SR-003r’s are the Ear Speakers with non-removable cables, and three sets of Ear Tips. I did have some complications with the ear tips, and only found one size that fit. It would have been nice if the CES-A1 type tips were included instead. I will go into this in the suggestion section later.
The star of the show I suppose is the AMP/DAC, the SRM 10, providing a rich, smooth, lush soundscape! Included with the with the SRM 10 with a power adapter for your country, USB-A to Micro-USB, right angle cable, to get you going, as well as other assorted cables.
Now, for the show
We will be diving into what I found quite fun, the listening portion of this review.
For this, I paired the Stax gear with Apple gear, which made for an excellent combo.
I used an M1 Mac Mini, 7th Gen iPad, and iPhone 13 Pro Max, all turned out to be excellent when using direct, or the camera kit adapter. I have to say, due to the compact nature of the SRM, it made it easy to pair on the go. I just wish it included some type of sticky feet or a silicone mat.
Air, lush, enveloping, these are just some of the words would use to describe Mark Knopfler’s guitars in the song, “Sucker Row”. Not to mention the smooth decay of Mark’s Baritones that is faithfully reproduced in the 003s quite chillingly. And I would be remised if I did not mention the drum kit that sounds quite authentic as well. Very nice! Color me enthused.
As both a coinsure of Jazz and Classical it is amazing how the SR-003 and SRM-D10 can reproduce both types of music faithfully. We take the musical piece, “Autumn in New York”, which is both Classical and Jazz. We are whisked away to the concert hall and enveloped in this beautiful musical piece with a smile. Wow, just wow!
I wore the 003s several ways, both stock, with the included this stock tips, and the thicker CES-A1’s tips.
Additionally, I listened to the Earspeakers open and closed which made a difference as well.
For me, CES-A1’s feel the best as they have more “cushion” when in the ear, as well as a better fit. This could be due to the “wings” that are included with them as well.
When using the included covers bass is tighter and smoother as well. I have more comments about the fit for the SR-003s, but I will leave this for the suggestions.
Can I get some power?
The other part of the SR-003 is the STAX SRM-D10. The STAX SRM-D10 is both an AMP as well a full DAC for mobile use.
Made of silver aluminum, and engraved on the top, towards the rear is STAX.
Towards the front of the unit going from left to right, is a five-pin STAX connector, a multi-color LED that shows the status of the unit, and the volume knob that also turns on the AMP.
The volume knob on the SRM has a very nice premium feeling, with a smooth, firm feeling similar to a nice Alps pot.
Going back to the multi-color LED, this lets you if you have a digital connection or if you need to charge the battery on the unit.
On the rear of the unit from left to right is the, line-in or 1/8” input, Micro USB, a switch that lets you select the input for the amp, and a barrel connector input for charging the amp.
Suggestions
The SR-003 comes stock with rubber thin rubber ear tips. This is ok, but when you need to change them on the Earspeakers they can easily rip during the change process.
Addidonly, the sizes included did not fit my ears, as they were too small. The biggest one included was just big enough.
Silicone is a better option and oddly is available in the CES-A1. Even at that, there are only two sizes included in this option, there should be at least three.
This should be a stock option, as it is more comfortable, as provides a better seal.
Change the Micro USB to USB- C, as this is a more common standard now a day.
This may be nitpicky but change the charging plug. I know it is marked, but the barrel fits in the line-in input.
And last of all, and I find this important, include some sort of silicone pad. The SRM is made out of aluminum. Thus, it can scratch what you are using, if you do not have some sort of “mat.”
Final thoughts
The STAX SR-003 Mk2 and STAX SRM-D-10 are an interesting combination to be had for any Audiophile at hand. This STAX combination delivers speed, air, detail, and performance known to any Electrostatics. Though the question at hand is this, is it right for you, especially with all the caveats?
There is no definitive yes or no off the bat. I would say this, the STAX SRM is a yes all day.
When it comes to the 003, this is a different answer. If you are a serious STAX enthusiast, and purchase the CES-A1 then yes.
Gear Used
Roon Nuclues+
Roon
iPad Seventh Gen
iPhone 13 Pro Max
Mac Mini M1
Qobuz (current build)
Music Used
Mark Knopfler - Sucker Row
https://open.qobuz.com/track/734392
Enrico Pieranunzi - Autumn in New York
https://open.qobuz.com/track/185588567