audiolab 9000A Integrated Amplifier - Black

Audiolab's Flagship Integrated

The 9000A sits at the top of Audiolab's amplifier range. It shows in every spec. Class AB amplification carries a 15-amp peak current rating. That delivers 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms. Into 4 ohms it makes 160. This amp controls demanding speakers, it does not just drive them.

Digital conversion runs through an ESS Sabre ES9038PRO. It is the same reference-grade chip found in far pricier components. It handles PCM up to 768kHz and DSD512. Full three-unfold MQA decoding is built in.

Every Source You Own, and a Turntable Too

Three RCA line inputs cover your analog sources. A balanced XLR input joins them. So do dual optical and coaxial digital inputs. A USB-B port handles computer audio. Bluetooth 5.1 adds aptX, aptX HD, and LDAC. A low-noise moving-magnet phono stage takes a turntable straight in.

Headphones From 20 Ohms to 600

A dedicated current-feedback headphone amplifier drives loads from 20 to 600 ohms. There is also a preamp output. It lets the 9000A run in Pre-Power or Pre-Only mode. That matters if your system grows to include a separate power amp.

Built Like a Flagship Should Be

At just over 20 pounds, the 9000A carries the weight and finish its price demands. It comes in black or silver. A 4.3-inch full-color IPS display shows source and volume clearly. A remote control is included, so you can work it from the listening chair.

What Reviewers Are Saying

Ed Selley reviewed the 9000A for AVForums on April 11, 2023. He called its sound "truly excellent with analogue and digital sources," and in his words the amplifier "walks a supremely well judged balance of realism and fun" too. He heard "detail and sheer resolution" alongside genuine "sweetness and lack of edge."

He praised the "excellent build and industrial design," adding that "even judged at £2,000 I can't think of anything that's better screwed together." AVForums awarded the 9000A a Best Buy with a 9 out of 10 score, calling it "unquestionable."

He was not uncritical. Selley flagged a "slightly clunky display" as one downside. He also found the linear volume control "can feel odd after a traditional pot," and he noted that some rivals include onboard streaming.

Who Is This Integrated Amplifier Best For?

• You want reference-grade digital conversion built in — the ES9038PRO DAC and full MQA decoding rival far pricier standalone components.
• You're driving genuinely demanding speakers — 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms, or 160 into 4, with a 15-amp peak current rating.
• You play vinyl on a moving-magnet cartridge — a built-in phono stage skips the need for an outboard preamp.
• You want room to grow your system — Pre-Power and Pre-Only modes let the 9000A adapt as your setup changes.
• If you want built-in network streaming, the 9000A handles Bluetooth but not Wi-Fi streaming on its own — Audiolab's own 9000N adds that alongside it.

How Does It Connect to Your System?

Connect your speakers to the binding posts and your turntable to the built-in phono input. Three RCA inputs, one balanced XLR input, dual optical and coaxial digital inputs, and USB-B cover the rest of your sources, while Bluetooth handles wireless streaming from a phone or laptop. Headphones plug into the front panel, and the preamp output is there if you add a separate power amp later.

From there, the display and included remote put the rest in your hands.

Pairs Well With

Building around the 9000A? Here are some great companions:

• Streamer: Add network streaming with Audiolab's own 9000N Wireless Audio Streaming Player.
• Turntable: Put the built-in MM phono stage to work — see our Turntables.
• Speakers: 100 watts per channel drives a serious pair — see our Floorstanding Speakers.
• Cables: Quality XLR and RCA interconnects carry the signal cleanly — see our Interconnect Cables.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much power does it deliver?

100 watts per channel into 8 ohms, or 160 watts per channel into 4 ohms.

Does it have a phono stage?

Yes, a built-in low-noise moving-magnet phono stage.

Does it support MQA?

Yes, with full internal three-unfold MQA decoding.

Does it have Bluetooth?

Yes, Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX, aptX HD, and LDAC codec support.

Does it have a headphone output?

Yes, a dedicated current-feedback headphone amplifier supporting 20 to 600 ohm headphones.

Can it be used as a preamp only?

Yes, the 9000A offers Integrated, Pre-Power, and Pre-Only operating modes.

See It in Action

Taps Das calls the 9000A totally transparent:

Andrew Robinson reviews the 9000A as a great amp for difficult speakers:

Why Audio Advisor?

• 40+ Years of Expertise — Since 1981, we've helped over a million music lovers find the right gear.
• 60-Day Money-Back Guarantee — Take your time. Listen, enjoy, and make sure it's right for you.
• Real Experts, Real Help — Our team is here to answer your questions at 800-942-0220, weekdays 9am–6pm EST.
• Free Shipping — On orders over $49, delivered to your door.
• Flexible Payment Options — Financing available so you can start listening now.

Learn More

Want to learn more about integrated amplifiers, DACs, or building a reference two-channel system? Visit our Learning Center for guides, tips, and expert advice.