NuPrime IA-9XG GaN Integrated Amplifier with Phono, Silver

The NuPrime IA-9XG is an ultra-compact analog integrated amplifier with a GaN power supply, switchable sound character and a built-in MM phono input.

It is the successor to the discontinued IA-9X and improves above all on current delivery. In a case the size of a cigar box it packs 2 × 170 watts and a toggle switch that lets you decide for yourself whether it should sound analytical and neutral or warm.

Why the IA-9XG?

The heart of it is the GaN power supply. Gallium nitride switches much faster than conventional silicon – the energy is there exactly when the music needs it, without delay and with little waste heat. Add a second, rarer trump card: a switch between ODC mode for maximum detail and Harmonic mode, which deliberately adds even-order harmonics for the warm melt of a tube amplifier. Two amplifier characters in one device – and the eternal question of "neutral or warm?" is now decided with your thumb, depending on the record and the mood of the evening.

NuPrime positions the 9X series for compact systems with a natural sound and fair value for money. Within it, the IA-9XG is the analog specialist for everyone who loves vinyl and still doesn't want to give up power.

What you get

• ✅ Selectable sound character: Use the toggle switch to choose between ODC mode (maximum detail, 0.002 % distortion) and Harmonic mode (warm tube-like melt). Our tip: listen to the same record first in one mode, then in the other – you will quickly notice where you feel at home.
• ✅ GaN power supply: Gallium nitride delivers current lightning-fast with little noise and waste heat – dynamics you wouldn't expect from a unit this size.
• ✅ 2 × 170 W into 8 Ω: Up to 2 × 200 W into 4 Ω and 15 A peak current – confident control even over inefficient speakers.
• ✅ Precise MM phono: Two-stage RIAA equalization, with resistance and capacitance adjustable in steps to match your cartridge – brings out brilliance from the groove.
• ✅ Balanced and RCA: 1 × XLR and 2 × RCA plus phono – enough choice for a pure analog chain.
• ✅ Trigger input and output: Can be switched on and off remotely and switches other devices in the chain on with it – also ideal as a stereo power amplifier for the front speakers in a home cinema.

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Who is the IA-9XG for?

For analog listeners who want plenty of power and flexibility in the smallest space – and who like to decide for themselves whether their system sounds sober and precise or warm and musical. Ideal for demanding floorstanding and compact speakers and for vinyl fans with an MM cartridge.

Honestly: The IA-9XG is a specialist for the analog world and deliberately has no digital inputs – NuPrime preferred to spend the space on high-quality audio relays and a balanced power supply. If you play digital sources, you need an external DAC. The phono input is designed for MM; MC cartridges need a step-up transformer. And: it gets noticeably warm under load – give it a few centimetres of air in the rack.

Our verdict

When we first connected the IA-9XG to large floorstanders in Wädenswil, there was first incredulous amazement – this lightweight plays faster and more controlled than many a 20-kilo heavyweight. We recommend it to everyone who wants a compact analog solution with a real character switch and who feed their sources either analog or through a separate DAC anyway. For MM vinyl, the adjustable phono stage is a real asset.

Technical specifications

• Type: Analog stereo integrated amplifier with GaN power supply and MM phono
• Sound modes: ODC mode (detail) / Harmonic mode (tube character), switchable
• Power (RMS): 2 × 170 W into 8 Ω, 2 × 200 W into 4 Ω
• Peak power: 2 × 200 W into 8 Ω, 2 × 250 W into 4 Ω
• Maximum output current: 15 A into 4 Ω
• Inputs: 1 × Phono MM (adjustable), 2 × analog stereo RCA, 1 × analog stereo XLR
• Phono MM – equalization: two-stage RIAA
• Phono MM – resistance: 32 kΩ / 47 kΩ / 100 kΩ (selectable)
• Phono MM – capacitance: 100 pF / 220 pF / 320 pF (selectable)
• Frequency response: 10 Hz – 35 kHz (− 3 dB)
• THD (distortion): 0.002 % at 20 W / 8 Ω
• Input impedance: 10 kΩ
• System control: trigger input and trigger output
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 235 × 61 × 281 mm
• Weight: 2.5 kg
• Housing: aluminium, satin finish
• Colour: Silver
• Warranty: 2 years
• What's in the box: IA-9XG, infrared remote control, power cable, user manual

FAQ

What is the difference between the IA-9XG and the old IA-9X?
The IA-9X has been discontinued. The new IA-9XG uses a GaN power supply (gallium nitride) and delivers significantly more power in a smaller build – 2 × 170 W RMS instead of around 90 W – as well as a cleaner, faster power supply. On top of that comes the switchable sound character between ODC and Harmonic mode.

What do ODC mode and Harmonic mode do?
In ODC mode, the amplifier works with very low distortion of 0.002 % – ideal for rock and complex orchestral pieces. In Harmonic mode, it deliberately adds even-order harmonics that we perceive as warm and musical – lovely for jazz and vocals. You choose the character with the toggle switch.

How do I set up the phono stage on the IA-9XG correctly?
You choose the input resistance (32, 47 or 100 kΩ) and capacitance (100, 220 or 320 pF) to suit your MM cartridge. The right match prevents exaggerated treble or a dull sound. We are happy to look at your cartridge's data sheet together with you.

Which speakers suit the IA-9XG?
Thanks to 2 × 170 W into 8 Ω and 15 A peak current, the IA-9XG confidently controls even less efficient floorstanding and compact speakers, with bone-dry bass. We are happy to help you estimate which speaker suits your room and listening taste.

Why buy the NuPrime IA-9XG at HD Zürisee?
Because we know the device from the workshop and tell you honestly what it suits – and what it doesn't. Andy and Maurizio advise you personally on speaker matching, phono setup and placement, and service is handled by our own technician. Reachable by phone, WhatsApp or in Wädenswil.

Goes well with

The IA-9XG is the analog core – the rest grows with it step by step:

• Vinyl: The MM phono stage is already on board. A turntable with an MM cartridge is all you need – matching is done with a switch, with no extra device and no cable clutter.
• Digital: Streamers, PCs or CD players need a DAC. With the DAC-9X from the same series you have converter and preamplifier in one case; suitable streamers are available too.
• Speakers: Speakers with a taste for fast bass – with 2 × 170 watts you can afford to be demanding.
• Connection: Cables & connectors – XLR, if your source can do it.
• More from the series: NuPrime