Nuprime IDA-9 silver

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 features a high-resolution DAC and follows the IDA-8’s form factor. Compared to that previous model, it offers double the output power and around a 30% reduction in operating temperature.

GaN technology: a different approach to audio power

The IDA-9 stands out with a power supply based on three distinct GaN modules. The first module handles power factor correction (PFC) with a dual-phase interleaved topology, a configuration that smooths power delivery and reduces current ripple compared to traditional single-phase designs. Despite its compact dimensions of 75 × 30 × 25 mm, this PFC module can deliver 600 watts of power.

Two additional GaN modules create a symmetrical dual-rail power system, supplying the positive and negative voltages required by the amplifier’s differential circuit. Together, these paired power blocks deliver 500 watts with a peak current capacity of 20 amperes. This design advantageously replaces traditional transformer-based power 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, versus around 400 kHz for the best silicon MOSFETs. This faster switching translates into 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, a particularly 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 extended 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 has 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 capacitors from the WIMA MKP and EPCOS MKP series for power rail decoupling. These components, typically reserved for 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 resistor 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 features independently stored volume settings, 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 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 provided via ASIO2.1 and DoP protocols.

The amplifier offers four digital inputs (USB, coaxial, optical, and an expansion port for Bluetooth or Wi‑Fi modules) 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, simplifying audio streaming integration.

Outputs include a pair of speaker binding posts and a variable (2 V) RCA line out controlled by the volume. This output allows connection of 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, receiving 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 lightweight 4 kg chassis, but doubles the RMS output power. This technical feat is made possible by GaN technology, which generates less heat for a given power level. The operating temperature, reduced by 30% compared to the IDA-8, not only allows for higher power but also improves component longevity.

The improvements aren’t limited to raw 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 lowered thanks to the new input JFETs and the ultra-clean GaN power supply.

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 components: Nichicon KZ, WIMA, EPCOS, OS-CON
• Convenience features: remote control, volume memory, anti-vibration feet
• Built-in high-resolution DAC with USB, coaxial, and optical support
• Hybrid ULCAM 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 via coaxial
• Resolution: 16 to 32 bits

Connectivity

Digital inputs

• 1 x USB PCM / DSD (PCM up to 384 kHz and DSD up to DSD256)
• 1 x coaxial S/PDIF (PCM up to 192 kHz, DoP DSD64)
• 1 x optical S/PDIF (PCM up to 192 kHz, DoP DSD64)
• 1 x Bluetooth or Wi‑Fi receiver (optional)

Analog input

• 1 x analog stereo RCA (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

• Dual-block 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
• Package dimensions: 80 x 390 x 360 mm
• Product weight: 4 kg
• Package weight: 5 kg