NuPrime IDA-9 Digital Integrated Amplifier, Silver

The NuPrime IDA-9 is a compact digital integrated amplifier that combines DAC, preamplifier and power amplifier in a single case.

That is a lot of functionality for a device the size of a thick book – and that is exactly the point. An integrated DAC, a Class-A input stage and a fast Class-D power stage work together in a small space, with no stack of boxes in your rack.

Why the IDA-9?

NuPrime, founded in 2014 by Jason Lim, is a hybrid Class-D specialist. In the IDA-9, a Class-A input stage sets the tone, and a 600 kHz Class-D power stage delivers 2 × 200 watts into 8 Ω. No half-metre-wide chassis, no 20 kg transformer – and still enough authority for most speakers. Mass simply doesn't equal class.

NuPrime positions the 9X series for compact systems with a natural sound and fair value for money. Within it, the IDA-9 follows the motto "Power. Detail. Simplicity." – a one-box system for digital and analogue sources.

What you get

• ✅ Compact powerhouse: 2 × 200 W into 8 Ω (2 × 250 W into 4 Ω) from a case that disappears on any desk and in any sideboard.
• ✅ Clean power: An ANC-GaN power supply with two-phase power factor correction feeds the power stage – fast, efficient and without a heavy toroidal transformer.
• ✅ Integrated DAC: PCM up to 32 bit / 384 kHz and DSD256 via USB – no external converter needed.
• ✅ Volume with a memory: 99 steps of 0.5 dB, adjustable per input and stored – no jump in volume when switching sources.
• ✅ Variable output: One RCA pair with regulated level and full frequency range, for example for an active subwoofer or an additional power amplifier.
• ✅ Flexible connections: USB-B, coaxial, optical and one analogue RCA input; the NuPrime USB-A port lets you optionally add a Bluetooth/Wi-Fi receiver (BTR-HD, LP10).

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Who is the IDA-9 for?

For anyone who wants to play their digital music – PC, streamer, console – centrally and in good quality, without building a rack full of boxes. Ideal on the desk, in a minimalist living room and for compact and floorstanding speakers that favour fast, precise bass.

Straight talk: The IDA-9 is a digital specialist with exactly one analogue RCA input and no headphone output. Turntables work, but only with an external phono preamplifier. If you want to fill a large hall with low-sensitivity floorstanders, you are better off with a power amplifier with more reserves – and if you are after the tactile charm of a classic heavyweight with big knobs, you won't warm to this slim bar.

Our verdict

We recommend the IDA-9 to anyone who wants to boil an entire hi-fi chain down to the essentials. You get DAC, preamplifier and 2 × 200 watts in one case, plus a variable output for a subwoofer or power amplifier. If you want to reduce space, cable clutter and complexity, this is a very grown-up decision.

Technical specifications

• Amplifier type: Class-A input stage + 600 kHz Class-D power stage
• Power supply: ANC-GaN power supply with two-phase power factor correction
• Output power (RMS): 2 × 200 W into 8 Ω, 2 × 250 W into 4 Ω
• Formats (USB): PCM 16–32 bit up to 384 kHz, DSD up to DSD256
• Formats (optical/coaxial): PCM up to 192 kHz (coaxial up to 384 kHz according to the manufacturer), DoP for DSD64
• Digital inputs: 1 × USB-B, 1 × coaxial, 1 × optical, 1 × NuPrime USB-A port for optional Bluetooth/Wi-Fi receiver
• Analogue input: 1 × stereo RCA, digitised internally
• Outputs: Speaker terminals, variable RCA output (full frequency range)
• Volume control: 99 steps of 0.5 dB, adjustable per input, with memory
• Frequency response: 10 Hz – 50 kHz
• THD+N: < 0.005 %
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 235 × 55 × 281 mm
• Weight: 4 kg
• Feet: NuPrime isolation feet
• Colour: Silver
• Warranty: 2 years
• What's in the box: IDA-9, remote control; further accessories on request

FAQ

Which speakers suit the NuPrime IDA-9?
With 2 × 200 W into 8 Ω, the IDA-9 drives compact speakers and many floorstanding speakers with ease. Its strength is the speed of the power stage – it rewards speakers with precise, controlled bass. For very large, low-sensitivity speakers in big rooms, we are happy to advise you on whether a separate power amplifier makes sense.

Do I need a separate DAC for the IDA-9?
No. The IDA-9 has a built-in DAC and processes PCM up to 32 bit / 384 kHz and DSD256 via USB. You connect your PC, streamer or console directly via digital. An external DAC only makes sense if you are looking for a very specific converter sound.

Does the IDA-9 have a headphone output?
According to the NuPrime data sheet, no: the outputs are speaker terminals and a variable RCA output. For headphones you need a separate device. We are happy to work out with you which solution suits the rest of your system.

Can I connect a turntable to the IDA-9?
Yes, via the analogue RCA input – however, you need an external phono preamplifier, as the IDA-9 has no phono input. The signal is digitised internally. We are happy to work out with you which phono stage suits your cartridge.

Why buy the NuPrime IDA-9 from HD Zürisee?
Because we know the device from everyday use and tell you honestly what it suits and what it doesn't. Andy and Maurizio advise you personally on speaker matching, placement and sources – by phone, via WhatsApp or in person in Wädenswil. Service and installation are handled by our own technician, with no call centre in between.

Goes well with

The IDA-9 is all the electronics in one box – the rest grows with it step by step:

• Digital: A streamer with a coaxial or optical output turns the IDA-9 into a complete streaming system; the Stream 9X from the same series is built for it.
• Headphones: The IDA-9 has no headphone output. If you also listen with headphones, you need a separate amplifier for them – we are happy to tell you which one suits the rest of your setup.
• Speakers: Speakers that favour fast, precise bass – with 2 × 200 watts you can afford to be demanding.
• Network and power: For streaming setups, NuPrime offers a network switch and power conditioner. NuPrime itself writes that the audible effect depends on the rest of the system – we will tell you honestly whether it is worth it in your case. More in the network collection.
• More from the series: NuPrime