NuPrime DAC-9X - DAC & Headphone Amp

NuPrime DAC-9X - DAC & Headphone Amp

The NuPrime DAC-9X is an ideal choice for audiophiles and music enthusiasts who are looking for a high-performance DAC and headphone amp. It offers exceptional audio quality, with PCM 384K, DSD256 & MQA decoding capability, a 32-bit/768kHz ESS SRC IC chip, and ultra-low jitter and distortion.

Additionally, the integrated preamp eliminates the need for extra components in your system, while the full microprocessor control with memory retention ensures accuracy and detailed audio. The DAC-9X also features an Extension port for connecting to a Bluetooth receiver or WiFi audio streamer (optional), individually adjustable volume on each input for precise level matching of sources, and very low power consumption on Standby Mode. With the addition of MQA technology, you can playback MQA audio files and streams, delivering the sound of the original master recording. The NuPrime DAC-9X is truly an impressive piece of hardware that will provide you with high-quality sound for years to come.

What NuPrime Say

The NuPrime DAC-9X is a high-end DAC and Headphone Amp that offers exceptional audio performance and a wide range of features. It supports decoding capability of PCM 384K, DSD256 & MQA and features a 32-bit/768kHz ESS SRC IC chip, which ensures accurate and detailed audio reproduction with ultra-low jitter and distortion. Additionally, the DAC-9X features a built-in pre-amplifier, making it a versatile and convenient choice for both home audio and professional studio use. To meet the requirement of customers who want to eliminate extra components in their system, a preamp capable of driving the power amplifier is an essential part of the design. The integrated preamp eliminates the need for more analog signal cables and connectors’ signal breakpoints. With this unique design and advanced technology, the NuPrime DAC-9X is a top-of-the-line option for audiophiles and music enthusiasts.

The DAC-9X supports six digital (including 2 x IIS/DSD) and one analog stereo inputs, RCA stereo and XLR balanced outputs as well as featuing a 6.3mm headphone output, full microprocessor control with memory retention and ultra- low-noise JFETs in the input stage for the lowest possible noise floor.

Notable features:

• NuPrime SRC IC chip (co-developed with IC vendor) provides DSP processing where Input signals are up-sampled to megahertz before down converted to the targeted sampling rate with ultra-low jitter and distortion
• Extension port for Bluetooth receiver and WiFi audio streamer (optional)
• Full microprocessor control with memory retention
• Supports DSD native playback by ASIO2.1 and DoP method
• Ultra- low-noise JFETs in the input stage for the lowest possible noise floor
• Individually adjustable volume on each input for precise level matching of sources
• Asynchronous transfer mode
• Very low power consumption on Standby Mode
• MQA technology, which enables playback of MQA audio files and streams, delivering the sound of the original master recording
• USB Type-A port to carry S/PDIF data and 5V power, for connecting to external wireless audio receiver using just one standard USB cable

High-end Preamp Features

• Analog volume control design using a low noise and low distortion resistance ladder circuit similar to switch-resistor network.
• Digital controlled dual-mono analog shunt to ground volume control achieves zero added noise or distortion.
• Individually adjustable volume on each input for precise source level matching.

The Heart

Dual ESS Technology 32-bit audio DAC ESS9028Q2M independently decode left and right channels improve channel separation and reducing overall noise. The Vishay professional film MELF resistors provide excellent sound quality. The AC hum is kept to a minimum by using a low noise power supply with antivibration treatment. The rest of the onboard power circuit is designed to minimize noise as well. The NuPrime SRC IC chip (co-developed with IC vendor) provides DSP processing where Input signals are up-sampled to megahertz before down converted to the targeted sampling rate with ultra-low jitter and distortion.

Native MQA Decoding

The DAC-9X includes MQA technology, which enables you to playback MQA audio files and streams, delivering the sound of the original master recording. The front panel LED glows green or blue to indicate that the unit is decoding and playing an MQA stream or file, and denotes provenance to ensure that the sound is identical to that of the source material. It glows blue to indicate it is playing an MQA Studio file, which has either been approved in the studio by the artist/producer or has been verified by the copyright owner. The DAC-9X LED glows magenta to indicate that the unit is rendering an MQA stream or file. This delivers the final unfold of the MQA file.

Using Bluetooth and WiFi Audio Receivers and Dongles

NuPrime defined an USB Type-A port to carry S/PDIF data and 5V power for connecting to external wireless audio receiver using just one standard USB cable. The NuPrime Omnia WR-1, BTR-HD, Stream Mini, and Stream Mini DAC wireless receivers have a micro USB port that is compatible this specification. This allows a standard off-the-shelf USB-A to micro USB cable to be used for power for the receiver as well as wireless audio data transfer in S/PDIF format.

Specification

Inputs: Rear panel

• USB: Type B 2.0 Hi-Speed, Windows OS: data stream up to 384KHz/24Bit and Native DSD 256
  USB: Type B 2.0 Hi-Speed, Mac / Linux OS: data stream up to 384KHz/24Bit and DOP DSD 128
• IIS/DSD: Supports PCM 44.1KHz ~ 384KHz/32Bit and DSD 64 ~ DSD 256 data streams
• OPTICAL: Supports PCM 44.1KHz ~ 192KHz/24Bit and DOP 64
• COAXIAL: Supports PCM 44.1KHz ~ 384KHz/24Bit and DOP 64 and 128
• RCA: Up to 1 Vrms audio signal
• EXTENSION: Supports PCM 44.1KHz ~ 192KHz/24Bit

Outputs: Front panel

• TRS 6.3mm headphone out
  Output power: 1700 mW, 32 ohms, <0.01% THD (watts per channel)
  Output power: 135 mW, 600 ohms, <0.005% THD (watts per channel)

Outputs: Rear panel

• RCA unbalanced outputs: 4 Vrms
• XLR balanced outputs: 8 Vrms
• Optical S/DPIF out (PCM up to 192KHz supporting DoP format DSD64)
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 KHz / ±0.3 dB
• SNR: > 110 dB
• THD+N: < 0.0005%
• Dimensions: 235 mm W x 281 mm D x 60 mm H (including feet)
• Weight: 2.5Kg
• Worldwide AC voltage: (90VAC~130VAC // 210VAC~ 250VAC) With Voltage Select Switch
• AC Fuse: Slow-blow, 2.5A, 250VA

About NuPrime

Nu-Prime Audio was founded in 2014 by Jason Lim, cofounder of NuForce, who is committed to design, engineering, and excellence. With a team of talented engineers, Nu-Prime has quickly established itself as a top player in the industry. Their high-end amplifiers and preamps, DACs and headphone amps, streamers, ethernet switches, and power supplies are pushing the boundaries of audio technology.

At Nu-Prime, the journey to audio perfection begins with a vertically integrated manufacturing process. Every step from conception to mass production is executed to ensure the best quality products. This dedication has been recognised by numerous audiophile magazines, solidifying Nu-Prime's reputation as a leader in the field.

Nu-Prime firmly believes that high-end audio should be accessible to all and prides itself on making expensive audio components affordable. Their design team optimises circuitry and components without compromising on the NuPrime sound signature. Each Nu-Prime product delivers a vast soundstage, lightning-fast dynamics, ultra-low distortion, and noise, allowing the music to emerge from a pristine background with intricate details and nuances intact.

Choose Nu-Prime Audio at Future Shop for the ultimate audio experience. Embrace their classic and elegant designs, immerse yourself in their signature soundstage, and witness the wide, lightning-fast dynamics that bring your music to life. With Nu-Prime, you can expect nothing less than a pristine audio experience where every delicate detail and nuance is preserved.