Dan
Fantastic product, plays really well and doesn’t take up much space
Comment from May 21, 2026 — Experience from May 07, 2026
Automatically translated — Show original (Danish)
Fantastisk produkt, spiller rigtig godt og fylder ikke det store
Specifications and features
Overview
The NuPrime IDA-9 is a compact integrated amplifier. It uses a gallium nitride (GaN) power supply and delivers 200 watts per channel into 8 ohms. The 4 kg unit also includes a high-resolution DAC and retains the IDA-8’s form factor. Compared to that previous model, it offers double the output power and about a 30% reduction in operating temperature.
GaN technology: a different approach to audio power supplies
The IDA-9 stands out with a power supply built around three distinct GaN modules. The first module handles power factor correction (PFC) with an interleaved dual-phase topology, a configuration that smooths power delivery and reduces current ripple compared to traditional single-phase designs. Despite its compact size of 75 × 30 × 25 mm, this PFC module can deliver 600 watts of power.
Two additional GaN modules create a symmetric dual-rail power system, providing the positive and negative voltages required by the amplifier’s differential circuit. Together, these paired power blocks deliver 500 watts with a peak current capability of 20 amperes. This design is a compelling alternative to traditional transformer-based supplies, occupying only a quarter of the space and weighing 20% of an equivalent conventional solution.
Gallium nitride enables significantly higher switching speeds than traditional silicon. The IDA-9’s GaN transistors can switch at frequencies approaching 700 kHz, compared to about 400 kHz for the best silicon MOSFETs. This faster switching yields a cleaner waveform, less transient distortion, and improved energy efficiency.
A refined hybrid Class A + Class D design
The IDA-9’s amplification circuit uses NuPrime’s ULCAM (Ultra-Linear Class A Module) technology. This approach combines a pure Class A input stage with a high-frequency Class D output stage. The input stage employs ultra-low-noise JFET transistors to minimize the noise floor right from the first gain stage.
The Class D MOSFET switching circuit has been optimized to operate at 600 kHz, an especially high frequency that enables an extended frequency response up to 50 kHz while reducing operating temperature. This thermal efficiency improves long-term reliability and allows the amplifier to maintain optimal performance even during prolonged listening sessions.
The architecture also uses a carefully calibrated feedback circuit with extended bandwidth, maintaining a high damping factor and low output impedance. This ensures precise control of the speakers, particularly in the bass region.
Audiophile components and meticulous construction
NuPrime selected high-quality components for the IDA-9. Nichicon KZ MUSE input coupling capacitors were chosen for their transparency and ability to preserve tonal neutrality. The single-ended Class A modules use OS-CON capacitors, renowned for their natural tonality and excellent high-frequency resolution.
The amplifier also incorporates 14 premium WIMA MKP and EPCOS MKP capacitors for power-rail decoupling. These components, typically found in high-end equipment, contribute to a balanced tonal character with fast response and minimal losses. Custom power capacitors, designed specifically for NuPrime, ensure instantaneous current delivery to meet the music’s dynamic demands.
The volume control uses a resistive ladder offering 99 steps of 0.5 dB, with only a single resistor in the signal path at any time. This design preserves signal integrity while enabling precise level adjustment. Each input has its own independently stored volume setting, making it easy to match sources with different output levels.
Digital conversion and modern connectivity
The IDA-9’s built-in DAC supports high-resolution formats up to 384 kHz in PCM and DSD256 via USB. The coaxial and optical inputs support PCM up to 192 kHz as well as DoP (DSD over PCM) for DSD64 playback. Native DSD compatibility is ensured via ASIO2.1 and DoP protocols.
The amplifier offers four digital inputs (USB, coaxial, optical, and an expansion port for a Bluetooth or Wi‑Fi module) plus a stereo RCA analog input. The latter is digitized to benefit from the internal DSP processing. The USB Type-A port can power and receive the S/PDIF signal from compatible wireless receivers such as NuPrime’s Omnia WR-1, WR-2, or BTR-HD modules, streamlining audio streaming integration.
Outputs include a pair of speaker binding posts and a variable (2 V) RCA line output controlled by the volume. This output allows you to connect an active subwoofer or a second amplifier for a bi-amped setup.
Evolution from the IDA-8: double the power, same footprint
Launched in 2016, the IDA-8 made a strong impression, earning two “Product of the Year” awards from The Absolute Sound and SoundStage! Network, as well as a Golden Ear Award. With 100 watts per channel, it set a new benchmark for high-quality compact amplifiers.
The IDA-9 retains the exact dimensions of its predecessor (235 × 281 × 55 mm) and the same featherweight 4 kg, but doubles the RMS output power. This technical feat is made possible by GaN technology, which generates less heat for a given power. The 30% lower operating temperature compared to the IDA-8 not only allows for higher power but also improves component longevity.
The improvements go beyond sheer power. The new 600 kHz switching circuit (versus 550 kHz for the IDA-8) offers better detail resolution and faster transient response. The noise floor has been further reduced thanks to the new input JFETs and the ultra-clean GaN power supply.
Documentation
Technical specifications
Amplification
- Continuous power: 200 W x 2 into 8 Ω / 250 W x 2 into 4 Ω
- Current reserve: 20 A
- Total harmonic distortion + noise (THD+N): 0.005%
- Frequency response: 10 Hz – 50 kHz
- Hybrid ULCAM technology: Class A warmth + Class D efficiency
Key features
- Compact form factor at just 4 kg
- Audiophile-grade components: Nichicon KZ, WIMA, EPCOS, OS-CON
- Convenience features: remote control, volume memory, anti-vibration feet
- High-resolution built-in DAC with USB, coaxial, and optical support
- ULCAM hybrid amplification technology
Digital-to-analog conversion
- USB input: PCM up to 384 kHz and DSD up to DSD256
- Sampling rates
- USB: 44.1 / 48 / 88.2 / 96 / 176.4 / 192 / 352.8 / 384 kHz + DSD 2.8 / 5.6 / 11.2 MHz
- S/PDIF: 44.1 – 192 kHz (optical and coaxial), up to 384 kHz over coaxial
- Resolution: 16 to 32-bit
Connectivity
Digital inputs
- 1 x USB PCM / DSD (PCM up to 384 kHz and DSD up to DSD256)
- 1 x S/PDIF coaxial (PCM up to 192 kHz, DoP DSD64)
- 1 x S/PDIF optical (PCM up to 192 kHz, DoP DSD64)
- 1 x Bluetooth or Wi‑Fi receiver (optional)
Analog input
- 1 x stereo RCA analog (digitized)
Outputs
- 1 x pair of speaker outputs (stereo binding posts)
- 1 x pair of variable stereo RCA (2 V, volume control, full-range)
Power supply
- Dual GaN power supply: low noise, 500 W peak
- Voltage selector: 90–130 V / 210–250 V
- Fuse: slow-blow 3 A, 250 V
Design and dimensions
- Product dimensions (H x W x D): 55 x 235 x 281 mm
- Packaging dimensions: 80 x 390 x 360 mm
- Product weight: 4 kg
- Packaging weight: 5 kg
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the concrete difference between a GaN power supply and a traditional one?
GaN power supplies use gallium nitride transistors capable of switching much faster than traditional silicon transistors. In the IDA-9, this translates into a power supply four times more compact and five times lighter than an equivalent toroidal transformer, with better regulation and less residual noise. Idle power consumption is also reduced by about 20%.
Does the IDA-9 get hot during use?
Thanks to the efficiency of GaN technology and the optimized Class D circuit, the IDA-9 stays warm at most even after several hours of use. Operating temperature is 30% lower than the IDA-8, which was already known for low heat dissipation. No fan is needed, and the unit can be installed in confined spaces with minimal ventilation.
How do I connect a Bluetooth or Wi‑Fi module?
The USB Type-A port on the back of the IDA-9 is designed to power and receive the S/PDIF signal from compatible wireless modules. NuPrime’s Omnia WR-1, WR-2, BTR-HD, and Stream Mini receivers connect with a standard USB cable. Other brands offer dongles compatible with this specification. The module then appears as a fourth selectable digital input.
Can I use the IDA-9 with speakers that are hard to drive?
With 200 watts into 8 ohms and 250 watts into 4 ohms, plus a 20-ampere current reserve, the IDA-9 can drive most speakers on the market. The high damping factor ensures precise control even with complex loads. However, for very demanding speakers or very high listening volumes, NuPrime’s IDA-16 remains more appropriate.
Is the built-in DAC good enough, or is an external DAC better?
The built-in DAC supports high-resolution formats up to 384 kHz/32-bit and DSD256, with a quality conversion chip and NuPrime’s proprietary SRC DSP processing. For most users, its performance is more than sufficient. An external high-end DAC will only yield noticeable improvements in very resolving systems with particularly revealing speakers.
How does the IDA-9’s sound compare to traditional Class A or AB amplifiers?
ULCAM technology combines the tonal qualities of Class A (smoothness, micro-detail resolution) with the dynamics and efficiency of Class D. Users generally describe the sound as neutral yet detailed, with excellent instrument separation, taut and controlled bass, and extended highs without harshness. The sonic signature avoids the coolness sometimes attributed to pure Class D.
User reviews
Pascal
An exceptional device that puts others costing ten times more to shame. I’ve owned many high‑end units; this one saves you a DAC while delivering amplification with phenomenal finesse and power. It has the warmth and transparency of a Class A, the lack of aggressiveness of a tube amp, and the power of certain legendary monsters. The power supply with active mains noise rejection brings unprecedented transparency to albums you thought you knew by heart. A phenomenon. Unbeatable value for money. A few days of burn‑in are necessary.
Comment from February 09, 2026 — Experience from January 29, 2026
Automatically translated — Show original (French)
Un appareil exceptionnel, qui en remontre à des appareils valant dix fois plus cher. J'ai eu nombre d'appareils High-End, celui-ci économise un DAC, tout en procurant une amplification d'une finesse et d'une puissance phénoménale. Il a la chaleur et la transparence d'un classe A, l'absence d'agressivité d'un ampli à tubes, et la puissance de certains montres sacrés. L'alimentation à réjection active de bruit secteur amène une transparence inédite, sur des albums que l'on croyait connaitre par coeur. Un phénomène. Rapport qualité-prix imbattable. Quelques jours de rodage sont nécessaires.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.
- Manufacturer reference: NP-IDA-9-BLK
- GTIN / EAN: 840761123002
