NuPrime DAC-9X Digital-to-Analog Converter and Headphone Amplifier - Black

One Converter Chip per Channel

The NuPrime DAC-9X runs two ESS9028Q2M converters, one for the left channel and one for the right. Splitting them that way improves separation between the channels and drops the noise, which is the sort of thing you hear as space around instruments rather than as a number.

Ahead of them sits a sampling rate converter NuPrime developed with its chip supplier. Incoming signal is upsampled into the megahertz range, then brought back down to the rate you asked for. That is how the design keeps jitter and distortion low.

Formats It Handles

PCM decodes up to 384kHz and DSD up to DSD256, with full MQA decoding as well. Native DSD playback works over ASIO 2.1 and by the DoP method, so a computer can send it in whichever form your software prefers.

A Preamp That Can Drive a Power Amp

NuPrime built a proper preamp into the DAC-9X, capable of driving a power amplifier directly. That removes a box, a pair of interconnects and two more connectors from the signal path, which is the real argument for doing it this way.

The Volume Control

Volume runs through an analog resistance ladder circuit rather than a chip, chosen for low noise and low distortion. It is the part of a preamp that most affects what you hear at everyday listening levels, and it is where NuPrime spent the money.

Six digital inputs, two of them I2S with DSD, cover almost anything you might connect, and there is one analog stereo input as well. Outputs are RCA and balanced XLR, with a quarter-inch headphone jack on the front.

What Reviewers Are Saying

What Hi-Fi? reviewed the DAC-9X in July 2023 and scored it five stars for sound, build and features. Its verdict: the DAC-9X "is a versatile and capable DAC/preamp that will work well in a wide range of systems."

Summing up, the magazine called it "a talented and versatile product that is capable of delivering pleasing results in a wide range of systems," adding: "Match it with the care a product at this level deserves and it won't disappoint."

Two notes from the same review. First among its listed strengths: "Crisp, clean and clear sound." Against that, the reviewers found "A couple of ergonomic quirks" in day-to-day use, which is worth a few minutes with the manual.

Who Is This DAC Best For?

• You want the converter and the preamp in one box — the DAC-9X drives a power amp directly, taking a component and a pair of cables out of the system.
• Your sources are many — six digital inputs including two I2S, plus an analog input, mean a computer, a transport and a streamer can all stay connected.
• You still own MQA files — full MQA decoding is built in, alongside PCM to 384kHz and DSD256.
• You listen on headphones too — a quarter-inch jack on the front means the good pair gets used without another amplifier on the desk.
• The DAC-9X has no power amplifier — it feeds a power amp or a pair of active speakers rather than driving passive ones. Pair it with one from our stereo amplifiers.

How Does It Connect to Your System?

Six digital inputs take a computer, a disc transport or a streamer, and two of them are I2S for sources that offer it. One analog stereo input handles a tuner or a phono stage. Switch between them from the front panel.

Balanced XLR and single-ended RCA outputs run to a power amplifier or a pair of active speakers, with the built-in preamp handling volume. Headphones use the quarter-inch jack on the front.

Pairs Well With

Building your system? Here are some great companions:

• Power Amplifier: The DAC-9X is built to drive one directly — see our Stereo Amplifiers.
• Headphones: There is a jack on the front for them — browse our Headphones.
• Cables: Balanced or single-ended out of the DAC — see our Interconnect Cables.
• Audio Rack: Give it a settled home — see our Audio Racks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which formats does it decode?

PCM up to 384kHz, DSD up to DSD256, and MQA in full. Native DSD works over ASIO 2.1 and DoP.

Can it replace my preamp?

Yes. The built-in preamp drives a power amplifier directly, using an analog resistance ladder for volume.

How many inputs does it have?

Six digital, two of which are I2S with DSD, plus one analog stereo input.

Which outputs are provided?

Balanced XLR and single-ended RCA, and a quarter-inch headphone output on the front.

Why two converter chips?

One per channel improves separation between left and right and lowers the noise floor compared with sharing a single chip.

What is the sampling rate converter for?

It upsamples the incoming signal into the megahertz range before converting down to the target rate, which lowers jitter and distortion.

See It in Action

Watch this product-focused video:

iamhear examines this model:

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 DACs, preamplifiers, or building a digital front end? Visit our Learning Center for guides, tips, and expert advice.