9000A Black

Unlike many competitors in its price range, the Audiolab 9000A combines digital capabilities with its analogue origins. Premium D/A conversion, as you'd expect, allows a range of digital sources to be connected directly to this powerful integrated device (there are four digital inputs). However, drawing on over 40 years of amplifier design experience, the 9000A also provides analogue device integration (via three AUX inputs, a balanced XLR and a dedicated phono input). It supports wireless connection via Bluetooth and digital audio via USB port with computers.

The 9000A is equipped with the flagship ESS 9038PRO 32-bit DAC chip. Leveraging a proprietary architecture, proven HyperStream ® II and time zone jitter elimination technology, the ES9038PRO delivers unprecedented levels of performance to meet the demands of the most demanding audio applications.

Four S/PDIF digital inputs—two coaxial and two optical—process high-resolution PCM data up to 24-bit/192 kHz and utilize a variety of user-selectable digital filters to optimize response to suit the source file and the bandwidth of the connected equipment.

PCM audio is supported up to 32-bit/768 kHz, along with DSD up to 22.5 MHz (DSD512). All important high-resolution and lossless audio formats, including FLAC, ALAC, AIFF and WAV, as well as legacy compressed formats are included.

The amplifier provides full MQA decoding, high-resolution streaming technology, with a custom-designed MQA-certified DAC solution. This means that the full decoding process ("triple deployment") occurs internally, as opposed to just the final deployment as an MQA "renderer", making the 9000A a great choice for Tidal "HiFi Plus" subscribers where Tidal Masters content can be found ( MQA).

Bluetooth comes standard and supports aptX HD protocol, providing excellent audio quality and easy wireless streaming from smartphones, tablets, laptops and other devices. Devices connected via Bluetooth also benefit from the amplifier's high quality DAC section and filtering options.

The Class AB power stage is 9000A discrete and delivers 100W per channel into 8 ohms (160W per channel into 4 ohms). Unlike most competitors, true 100W per channel power allows it to compete with the best in its class.

To maintain consistent clarity, audio signals from the line inputs are routed to an analog precision volume control, and the preamp section is kept as simple as possible. As with all Jan Ertner's designs, the layout here is a work of art, not just in terms of placement and architecture. The design itself protects the sensitive section of the amplifier from noise and interference, which is the cornerstone of the audiolab philosophy.

An all-new phono stage ensures compatibility with MM cartridges, while precise RIAA curve EQ delivers the best for turntable fans.