British audio manufacturer Audiolab has introduced a new preamplifier, the 9000Q, alongside a power amplifier known as the 9000P. The previous model in their power amplifier lineup was the 8300 XP, which has been available since 2016. The 9000P functions as a two-channel power amplifier, with the capability to bridge its output stages for use as a robust mono power amplifier. Both models will soon be offered in black and silver finishes.
Audiolab 9000Q and 9000P
Audiolab’s 9000 series consists of the 9000A integrated amplifier, 9000CDT CD transport and 9000N network player. The 9000Q and 9000P are the latest additions to Audiolab’s portfolio. The 9000Q preamplifier has analogue line inputs, a turntable input for MM cartridges and digital inputs. There is also wireless connectivity via Bluetooth. The 9000P stereo power amplifier can deliver 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms. With bridged output stages, a mono power amplifier is created that can deliver 300 watts into 8 ohms. The new preamplifier and power amplifier are the flagships of Audiolab’s fleet.
Audiolab 9000Q: preamplifier with analog and digital inputs
The 9000Q features an onboard DAC with an ESS Technology ES9038PRO DAC chip at its heart and features a newly developed Class A active post-DAC filter that has been carefully implemented to get the most out of the chip. Multiple discrete regulators are included to separately supply power to the left and right channels for each stage of the DAC to improve efficiency and accuracy. Unlike the DAC in the 9000A integrated amplifier, the 9000Q incorporates a dedicated transformer winding to further isolate noise from the circuitry.
The 9000Q’s DAC can handle PCM audio up to 32-bit/768 kHz, DSD up to 22.5 MHz (DSD512) and MQA. It also supports Bluetooth 5.0 including the aptX HD codecs and LDAC wireless playback. In addition to the three analogue RCA line inputs, there is also an XLR input. There is also a headphone jack on the front.
There are two cinch outputs for connecting a power amplifier and an XLR output. If desired, two power amplifiers could easily be connected, for example in a bi-amping configuration. Two 12 Volt trigger outputs can also switch on/off a suitable power amplifier.
On the front is a 4.3-inch colour display that can display information such as volume level, selected source and resolution of the supplied digital signal. Optionally, the user can also look at VU meters if he wants. The 9000Q has a tone control and a balance control, which work in the analogue domain just like the volume control. However, these controls can be completely removed from the signal path.
The power supplies in both the 9000Q and 9000P use filter technology. This technology was developed from Audiolab’s DC Block and DC Block 6 mains filters and is aimed at removing noise from the mains supply.
Audiolab 9000P: bridgeable stereo power amplifier
The 9000P is, according to its designers, Audiolab’s finest power amplifier to date and it operates in Class AB. The technical core is a dual-mono circuit topology, with separate power supplies for the left and right channels. A distinctive feature is the Complementary Feedback output stage design, which keeps the idle current independent of the temperature of the output transistors for excellent thermal stability.
The 9000P delivers 100 watts per channel into eight ohms (160 watts into four ohms). With two output stages bridged, the 9000P can drive a single speaker, providing 300 watts into eight ohms and 380 watts into four ohms. Of course, two 9000Ps are required for stereo sound.
The new front/rear combination is said to be on the market from next month.
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