As CEO/founder of an early but promising startup, should I consider hiring a top-notch CEO-type to take over my role?

Absolutely! If you feel that is the way to go, follow your gut. I have seen many companies fail because its founders refuse to give up their position of power, so you should go for it and hire someone capable and motivated.

Are you sure she's a rockstar? Lots of posers in this business space.

Hire the CEO but stay involved - very involved - in whatever your role will be. If your looking to find someone to take over a lot of your involvement/hours that would raise some major flags.

Don't confuse someone who swam with a strong current to be a great swimmer.

Rock stars are drastically overrated.

Hire them, but don't make CEO. Make them Vp operations, president, coo, or whatever.

Let them earn the CEO role over the course of at least 18 months, up to 5 years...

You need a good manager, a star as you said.

Keep the decisions at the end.

Make him start as a COO with vested equities.

Ive just been through this and am very happy with the experienced performer coming in and providing us with his maturity. But remember, the original risk and ideas is what it means to be an owner. Therefore, we linked the new guy's equity and pay to performance. He is happy and we are too.