Audiolab
audiolab 9000A Integrated Amplifier
Best high-fidelity hub for audiophiles balancing digital and analog collections.
The audiolab 9000A integrated amplifier serves as the core of a high-performance audio system, offering more power and features than previous models. Designed by lead designer Jan Ertner, it builds upon the success of the 8300A and 6000A, delivering exceptional performance. It accommodates both digital and analog sources, including wireless connectivity via Bluetooth, a new phono stage for vinyl, and robust amplification for speakers and headphones. The 9000A features a full-color IPS LCD screen for clear playback information and menu options, along with selectable VU meter displays.
$3499.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
421
/ 1685
#421 in Power Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
-58%
Below average
Rated Power Output
210081216041
/ x W ( ohms, THD<%); x W ( ohms, THD<%)
Who it's for
- Listeners wanting dynamic, authoritative power for demanding speakers
- System builders requiring versatile connectivity for diverse audio sources
- Audiophiles seeking high-fidelity digital clarity and detail
Who should skip it
- Design enthusiasts prioritizing premium aesthetics and tactile luxury
- Listeners preferring a warmer, more colored sonic character
- Users needing high-visibility displays from across the room
Performance breakdown
Digital Conversion Precision
The flagship ESS 9038PRO DAC delivers exceptional clarity and high-resolution detail.
Amplification Power
Robust 100W output drives most demanding speakers with effortless, clean authority.
Connectivity Versatility
Seamlessly bridges modern streaming, wireless Bluetooth, and classic analog vinyl setups.
Interface Experience
The vibrant IPS screen makes navigation and playback monitoring intuitive and elegant.
Signal Integrity
Ultra-low distortion levels ensure your music remains pure and uncolored.
Headphone Performance
Dedicated current-feedback circuitry provides a dynamic, intimate listening experience for headphones.
Key Specs
Rated Power Output
2 x 100W (8 ohms, THD<1%); 2 x 160W (4 ohms, THD<1%)
Input Impedance
10K (Line); 47K // 100pF (Phono MM)
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) (Preamp)
< 0.0004% (1kHz @ 2V, Volume = 0dB)
Frequency Response
20Hz-20kHz (+/-0.1dB)
Output Voltage
2.3V max. (Volume = 0dB)
Output Impedance
120 ohms
Signal-to-Noise Ratio
> 110dB (Line & XLR, A-weighted); > 80dB (Phono MM, A-weighted)
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) (Amp)
<0.002% (1kHz @ 50W / 8 ohms)
Features
- Flagship ESS 9038PRO 32-bit DAC for superior audio conversion.
- Full-color 4.3" IPS LCD screen displays playback, source, and file information.
- Supports MQA full decoding for high-resolution streaming.
- Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX HD and LDAC for high-quality wireless audio.
- Dedicated MM phono stage for vinyl playback.
- Current-feedback headphone amplifier for dynamic and detailed listening.
- Three operating modes: Integrated, Pre-Power, and Pre Only for versatile system integration.
- User-selectable digital filters to optimize audio response.
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Audiolab 9000A Integrated Amplifier for its exceptional sound quality and robust build. Many highlight its ability to deliver a clear, detailed, and powerful audio experience, often noting its impressive musicality across various genres. The amplifier's sleek design and premium construction also receive frequent commendation, contributing to a sense of lasting quality. Users feel it offers remarkable value, performing at a level often associated with significantly higher priced components. This combination of sonic excellence and solid craftsmanship makes it a highly regarded choice.
Know before you buy
Yes, the 9000A features three distinct operating modes: Integrated, Pre-Power, and Pre Only. This allows you to integrate it into a variety of system setups, whether you want to use it as a full integrated unit, just as a power amp, or strictly as a preamplifier.
Yes, the 9000A includes full MQA decoding capabilities. Combined with its flagship ESS 9038PRO DAC, it is designed to handle high-resolution digital files with exceptional clarity.
The 9000A features a dedicated Moving Magnet (MM) phono stage designed specifically for vinyl playback. It provides a clean, accurate signal path that is well-suited for most standard MM cartridges.
The 9000A supports Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX HD and LDAC codecs, which offer significantly higher audio quality than standard Bluetooth. While a wired connection remains the gold standard for critical listening, these codecs allow for high-fidelity wireless streaming that is very close to CD quality.
With a power output of 100W per channel into 8 ohms and 160W into 4 ohms, the 9000A has enough headroom to drive a wide range of bookshelf and floorstanding speakers. Its Class AB design provides a balance of power and musicality suitable for most home audio environments.
The user-selectable digital filters allow you to fine-tune the sound profile of the DAC to match your personal preference or the specific characteristics of your speakers. You can experiment with these settings to find the balance of detail and smoothness that sounds best to your ears.
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$3499