NuPrime PRA-9X Preamplifier with Phono, Silver

The NuPrime PRA-9X is a fully balanced stereo preamplifier with a discrete Class-A output stage, an integrated MM phono input, and a proper headphone amp.

It's the switchboard of an active chain: it takes in your sources, controls the level losslessly, and sends a clean signal to the power amp. Small in the chassis, big in the job – with exactly the understated presence a good preamp should have.

Why the PRA-9X?

A preamp decides how cleanly your signal even reaches the power amp in the first place. The PRA-9X relies on a discrete Class-A circuit and a lossless, FPGA-based volume control – no worn-out potentiometer that skews the channels at half setting. On top comes a fully balanced architecture with XLR input and output, so long cable runs to the power amps stay noise-free too. If you're building active, this is sensibly where you start.

What you get

• ✅ Discrete Class-A preamp: High resolution of detail and an organic, natural tonal foundation – especially with voices and acoustic music.
• ✅ Lossless FPGA volume: Precise levels with no loss of sound quality across the whole range, ideal for mono power amps or active speakers.
• ✅ Fully balanced: XLR input and output for low-noise, long connections to the power amp – the right choice for larger listening rooms.
• ✅ Integrated MM phono: Input resistance and capacitance selectable in steps, so your MM cartridge is matched exactly.
• ✅ Class-A headphone output: 560 mW into 32 Ω with control and current even for demanding studio headphones.
• ✅ Trigger on/off: Switches power amp and sources on in sync – tidy operation with no socket acrobatics.

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Who is the PRA-9X for?

For anyone building an active system: PRA-9X plus one or two NuPrime power amps make a compact, high-resolution chain without a stack of boxes. Also ideal as a clean preamp ahead of mono end blocks or actively driven speakers – and as an honest phono and headphone hub for vinyl listeners.

Straight talk: The PRA-9X is a purely analogue preamp – no DAC, no digital inputs. If you only pull your music from a streamer or PC, you'll need a DAC with an analogue output as well. The phono input is designed for MM cartridges; for an MC cartridge you'll need a step-up transformer or an external MC stage. And if you're expecting a touchscreen and app frills, you'll find deliberately just the essentials here – but done cleanly.

Our verdict

We recommend the PRA-9X to anyone who wants to build a serious active chain in little space. In Wädenswil we appreciate how quietly and neutrally it passes on the signal – the FPGA volume keeps sound purity intact even at low levels, and the Class-A headphone output is a genuine extra rather than an alibi jack. Paired with an STA-9X or a pair of monoblocks, this combination makes considerably pricier towers look old.

Technical data

• Type: Fully balanced stereo preamplifier with MM phono and headphone amp
• Preamp stage: Discrete Class-A, FPGA-based lossless volume control
• Inputs: 1 × phono MM, 2 × analogue stereo RCA, 1 × analogue stereo XLR
• Outputs: 1 × stereo RCA, 1 × stereo XLR, 1 × headphone 6.3 mm
• Phono MM – resistance: 32 kΩ / 47 kΩ / 100 kΩ (selectable)
• Phono MM – capacitance: 100 pF / 220 pF / 320 pF (selectable)
• Phono MM – sensitivity/gain: 4.0 mV @ 1 kHz / 50 dB @ 1 kHz
• Preamp – input/output impedance: 20 kΩ / 10 Ω
• Preamp – THD+N: 0.0004 % @ 7.5 V Vrms
• Preamp – signal-to-noise ratio: > 115 dB
• Headphone amp: Class-A, 560 mW into 32 Ω, THD+N 0.004 %, dynamic range > 115 dB
• Frequency response: 0 Hz – 50 kHz
• System control: Trigger input and output
• Power supply: Worldwide AC voltage; slow-blow fuse T1A
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 235 × 55 × 281 mm
• Weight: 3 kg
• Chassis: Aluminium
• Colour: Silver
• Warranty: 2 years
• Included: PRA-9X, infrared remote, power cable, quick guide

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a power amp for the NuPrime PRA-9X?
Yes. The PRA-9X is a pure preamp and only controls level – the power comes from a separate power amp. An NuPrime STA-9X or a pair of monoblocks are a particularly good match. That way you build a compact, high-resolution chain of well-matched components.

Can I connect a turntable directly?
Yes, as long as your cartridge is an MM type. The integrated phono input can be adjusted in resistance (32/47/100 kΩ) and capacitance (100/220/320 pF). For an MC cartridge you'll also need a step-up transformer or an external MC preamp. We'll help you find the right setting.

Does the PRA-9X have a built-in DAC?
No. The PRA-9X is deliberately built purely analogue. If you play from a streamer, PC, or CD player digitally, you'll need a separate DAC with an analogue output, connected to one of the RCA or XLR inputs. We're happy to help you find the DAC that suits your sound.

Is the PRA-9X's headphone output any good?
Yes, the output works in Class-A technology and delivers 560 mW into 32 Ω. That's enough for control and dynamics even with critical studio headphones. For many listeners it replaces a separate headphone amp and turns the PRA-9X into a complete vinyl and headphone hub.

Why buy the NuPrime PRA-9X at HD Zürisee?
Because we build active chains every day and know which power amps, speakers, and sources suit the PRA-9X. Andy and Maurizio advise you personally, service and installation run through our own technician. Reachable by phone, WhatsApp, or in person in Wädenswil.

Goes well with

A preamp is the start of an active chain – this belongs with it:

• The matching power amp: power amplifiers (e.g. NuPrime STA-9X)
• A DAC for digital sources
• The right speakers for your room
• A clean connection: cables & connectors (XLR or RCA)
• More from the series: NuPrime