Integrated amplifiers — Nuprime Audio IA-9X

The IA-9X is an integrated amplifier with built-in DAC and phono stage from NuPrime Audio, built with an extraordinarily low output impedance and exhaustive MC loading options. The IA-9X brings NuPrime's considered engineering to a complete, feature-rich integrated chassis.

Key specs that matter

One balanced XLR input and two single-ended inputs plus a dedicated phono input are provided. Input sensitivity is 1,500mV, with input impedance at 47,000 ohms on both connections. Output impedance is an extraordinarily low 0.02 ohms. The phono stage uses a sophisticated current-sensing design offering an exhaustive three-position MC loading selection at 32,000, 47,000, or 100,000 ohms. Output power is 100W into 8 ohms, rising to 160W into 4 ohms. Gain is a substantial x17 multiplier. Frequency response spans a wide 10Hz to 50,000Hz within plus-or-minus 3dB. At 60 x 235 x 281mm and 3.8kg, the IA-9X maintains a remarkably lightweight integrated amplifier chassis given its comprehensive feature set.

Sound and use context

Expect exceptionally clean, tightly controlled amplification reflecting the extraordinarily low output impedance, with the exhaustive three-position MC loading selection allowing fine-tuned cartridge matching.

Pairing

The exhaustive three-position MC loading selection accommodates a range of moving-coil cartridges precisely without a separate step-up transformer.

Alternatives

NuPrime's own IDA-8 offers a more compact, phono-free alternative within the same broader integrated amplifier catalogue.