The Audiolab 9000Q is the flagship pre-amplifier in Audiolab's 9000 Series, designed as the dedicated control stage for a separates system based around the 9000P power amplifier or pre-out from the 9000A integrated. It combines a high-resolution DAC, MM phono stage and headphone amplifier in a single chassis, providing a comprehensive analogue and digital hub.
DAC and Digital Inputs
At the heart of the 9000Q's digital section is an ESS ES9038PRO DAC chip. Digital inputs include two coaxial S/PDIF, two optical TOSLINK, and one USB-B, supporting PCM up to 768kHz and DSD up to DSD512. Bluetooth 5.1 is also included, supporting aptX, aptX HD and LDAC codecs for wireless streaming. MQA decoding is supported.
Analogue Inputs and Phono Stage
Analogue connectivity comprises three RCA and one balanced XLR stereo input, plus a dedicated MM phono stage built around a Class A circuit for moving-magnet cartridges. Tone controls are fitted, adjustable in 2dB steps up to ±6dB, along with a direct mode that bypasses tonal adjustment for the shortest signal path.
Headphone Amplifier
A current-feedback headphone amplifier is built in, accessible via a front-panel socket. The low output impedance of 2.35 ohms makes it well suited to both low- and high-impedance headphones.
Outputs and Display
Variable outputs are provided as two RCA pairs and one balanced XLR, accommodating both unbalanced and balanced connections to a power amplifier. Two 12V trigger outputs allow connected power amplifiers to power on automatically. A 4.3-inch colour TFT display on the front panel shows source, volume and signal information.
Also available in Black.