Advance Paris Nova – a New Series of Audio Components Designed for Serious Systems

French company Advance Paris unveiled its new Nova audio lineup at AXPONA 2026 in Chicago. At launch, the series includes five products: two integrated amplifiers, a streaming module, a bidirectional Bluetooth module, and a proprietary Bluetooth remote control focused on tactile operation. The manufacturer has not yet disclosed pricing or availability.

At the heart of the range are the Nova A-i130 and A-i190 integrated amplifiers. Advance Paris emphasizes that these are not simply amplifiers in the conventional sense, but universal control centers for an entire audio system. Hybrid amplification, DSP processing, digital-to-analog conversion, and subwoofer management are all combined in a single chassis, while additional modules allow the functionality to be expanded if needed.

Both models are built around a hybrid design with an ECC81 tube preamplifier stage and a Class AB transistor output stage. According to the developers, this architecture is intended to combine musicality and tonal richness with strong control and dynamics. The digital section is based on an ESS9017 DAC from ESS Technology operating in Quad mode, while a four-channel DSP handles equalization and adapts the sound to the acoustic properties of the room for the left and right channels, as well as for up to two subwoofers.

Particular attention in the series has been paid to subwoofer integration. Both amplifiers support 2.1 and 2.2 configurations, offering full crossover processing and independent control. In essence, Advance Paris is embracing a more modern approach to the stereo system, where the subwoofer is treated not as an exotic add-on, but as a полноценная part of a high-quality stereo setup.

The connectivity options also look thoroughly serious. The equipment includes HDMI eARC, USB with DSD support, several optical and coaxial digital inputs, five line-level RCA inputs, an MM phono stage with grounding, a preamplifier output, a line output for recording, two outputs for active subwoofers, and a standard 6.35 mm headphone jack. In concept, these units are intended to replace several separate components without forcing the user to compromise on sound quality.

Both the A-i130 and the A-i190 support optional A-NTC and A-BTC modules. The first adds network functionality and streaming, while the second provides Bluetooth connectivity with both receive and transmit capability. This means the user can either build a modern network player directly into the amplifier or set up wireless connection from a smartphone and even send audio to Bluetooth headphones. Support is also provided for an optional proprietary remote control.

The entry-level Advance Paris Nova A-i130 delivers 130 watts per channel into an 8-ohm load and uses a single toroidal transformer in its power supply. The flagship A-i190 takes the concept further with a dual mono architecture and two toroidal transformers, ensuring greater channel separation. Output power rises to 190 watts per channel, and the model is clearly aimed at more ambitious systems with higher demands for control and dynamic headroom.

In addition to greater power, the Advance Paris Nova A-i190 offers more extensive connectivity. Alongside the same RCA line inputs and digital inputs, the model is equipped with balanced XLR inputs and a balanced XLR preamplifier output. Its built-in phono stage supports not only MM but also MC cartridges. At the same time, the dual subwoofer outputs and recording output are retained. In other words, this is not just a “bigger” amplifier, but a more serious component designed for high-end systems.

The A-NTC network module is conceived as a flexible solution for adding streaming functionality. It can be used as an external streamer via its optical output with any compatible system, while installation inside the A-i130 or A-i190 makes it an integrated part of the amplifier with no extra cables and no additional boxes. This approach allows the user to decide how deeply integrated they want the network features to be.

The A-NTC supports Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, AirPlay 2, Chromecast, DLNA, and Roon, with connection available via either Ethernet or Wi-Fi. Playback is limited to 24-bit / 192 kHz, which seems entirely reasonable and sufficient for the vast majority of real-world streaming scenarios.

The A-BTC Bluetooth module is implemented as a bidirectional Bluetooth 5.4 solution. It can both receive sound from a smartphone or another wireless source and transmit audio from the amplifier to a single pair of Bluetooth headphones. Supported codecs include aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, aptX Low Latency, and AAC, making the module a versatile option both for music and for video viewing with minimal delay.

At the same time, the A-BTC does not support LDAC or aptX Lossless. For some users, this may be a limitation, especially in the case of newer wireless headphones designed around more advanced codecs. So while the module is a practical and well-equipped Bluetooth solution, it is not the ultimate last word in wireless audio.

Special mention should be made of the optional A-RTR Bluetooth remote control. This is a substantial metal controller designed to sit permanently beside an armchair or on a coffee table, rather than serving as a lightweight remote that can easily get lost. It works via Bluetooth and requires the A-BTC module to be installed, without which communication with the amplifier is impossible.

The functionality of the remote has been kept deliberately straightforward. The main rotary control adjusts volume, while additional buttons allow source selection and power on/off. There is no screen, no complicated logic, and no dependence on a mobile app. The entire concept revolves around simple and convenient physical control, which fits well with the overall philosophy of the Nova series.