A Milestone of the 9000 Series
The Audiolab 9000 series builds on the success of the legendary 8000, 8200, and 8300 models. With new developments such as the 9000Q preamplifier and the 9000P power amplifier, the series targets a broader audience and is perfectly suited for demanding audio systems.
The 9000Q impresses with the elegant aesthetics of the series – robustly manufactured and immaculately finished. With its two rotary controls and high-resolution 4.3-inch TFT color display, it externally resembles the 9000N and exudes timeless elegance.
Design and Technology
The Audiolab 9000Q was developed from the ground up as a standalone, dedicated preamplifier – far more than just a stripped-down version of the 9000A integrated amplifier. Under the leadership of Jan Ertner, the experienced designer of the 9000 series, the 9000Q was conceived as a highly sophisticated solution for uncompromising sound quality.
At the heart of the 9000Q is the ES9038PRO DAC chip, the most powerful DAC in the Sabre range. By combining it with proprietary circuits, the HyperStream-II architecture and Time Domain Jitter Eliminator technology are optimally utilized. This enables outstanding dynamics and ultra-low distortion – ideal for high-resolution digital audio files.
Furthermore, the 9000Q features an improved MM phono stage with a new, single-stage Class-A circuit, which also makes it exceptional as a standalone phono stage.
Tone Control
A specially developed transformer ensures precise and detailed reproduction, even under high power demands.
The 9000Q offers new treble and bass tone controls, which can be adjusted via the menu. With an adjustment range of +/-6 dB in 2-dB steps, it allows for precise adaptation to room acoustics, loudspeakers, or personal preferences.
Connections
Inputs:
- 3 x Line-Level AUX
- 1 x balanced XLR stereo pair
- 1 x MM phono input
- 2 x Coaxial (S/PDIF, up to 192 kHz, 24 bit)
- 2 x Optical (S/PDIF, up to 192 kHz, 24 bit)
- 1 x Bluetooth 5.1 (aptX, aptX HD, LDAC)
- 1 x USB PC input
Outputs:
- 2 x RCA (Cinch)
- 1 x XLR
- 1 x Headphone (6.3 mm)
- 2 x 12V Trigger
Additionally, the 9000Q features three variable pre-outputs (2 x RCA, 1 x XLR) that can be used simultaneously without affecting performance.
Further Features
The integrated headphone amplifier with current-feedback technology offers dynamic and detailed reproduction for all types of headphones.
Two 12V trigger outputs allow control of external devices such as the Audiolab 9000CDT or 9000N. The 9000Q harmonizes ideally with the 9000P power amplifier, whether in stereo or mono-bridged configuration.
The 4.3-inch TFT display offers an intuitive user interface with extensive functions:
- Digital upsampling
- Input sensitivity adjustment
- Balance control
- Automatic standby
- Power-on volume limit
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The display can also be used as a VU meter, showing real-time levels for the left and right channels – either analog or digital.
Conclusion
The Audiolab 9000Q sets new standards in the world of preamplifiers. With excellent craftsmanship, state-of-the-art technologies, and versatile features, it offers a sound quality that will impress even the most demanding music lovers. A true highlight of the 9000 series and a perfect addition to high-end audio systems.
Technical data
| Model | 90000Q |
| General Description | Preamplifier |
| Design Philosophy and Core Technology | ES9038Pro 32-bit DAC MQA Full decoder (PC USB, Coax/Optical) 4.3” 800 x 480 IPS LCD Bluetooth 5.1 (aptX/aptX HD/LDAC) streaming Dedicated Current-Feedback Headphone Amp Dedicated High Performance Low Noise MM Phono stage |
| Inputs | 3 x Analogue, 1 x XLR, 1 x Phono (MM) 2 x SPDIF (Coax), 2 x SPDIF (Optical) 1 x PC USB (USB B), 1 x Bluetooth (aptX/aptX HD/LDAC) |
| Outputs | 2 x RCA, 1 x XLR, 1 x Headphone, 2 x 12V Trigger |
| Sampling Frequency | Optical/Coaxial: 44.1-192kHz Sampling Frequency PC USB: 44.1kHz-768kHz (PCM) / DSD64, DSD128, DSD256, DSD5, DSD512 |
| Preamp / DAC | |
| D to A Converter | ES9038Pro |
| Input Sensitivity | 1Vrms (Line, Volume = 0dB) 2Vrms (XLR, Volume = 0dB) 4.5mV (Phono MM, Volume = 0dB) |
| Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) | < 0.001% (1KHz @ 0dBFS) |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz - 20kHz (+/-0.1dB) |
| Output lmpedance | 120 ohm |
| Max.Sampling Frequency | Optical, Coaxial: 192KHz PC USB: PCM768kHz, DSD512 |
| Signal-to-noise Ratio (S/N) | > 113dB (A-weighted, RCA) > 117dB (A-weighted, XLR Direct) |
| Headphone Amplifier | |
| Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) | < 0.01% (1kHz, 50mW ) |
| Output lmpedance | 2.35 ohm |
| Load lmpedance | 20-600 ohm |
| General | |
| Standby Power Consumption | <0.5W |
| Net Weight | 6.2kg |
| Gross Weight | 8kg |
| Dimensions(mm) (W x H x D) | 444 x 90 x 328 mm |
| Carton Size (mm) (W x H x D) | 514 x 165 x 470 mm |
| Finish | Silver / Black |
| Power Requirements(depending on region) | 220-240V - 50/60Hz 100-120V - 50/60Hz |
| Standard Accessories | Power Cord, Remote Control, User Manual, Antennas |
