NuPrime DAC-9X
NuPrime dual ESS Sabre conversion stereo DAC preamplifier, fitted with a headphone output and MQA decoding, for audiophile systems or home studios.
Description
The NuPrime DAC-9X is a digital-to-analogue converter combined with a stereo preamplifier, designed to serve as the heart of an audio chain by replacing both a separate DAC and preamplifier. It also includes a front-panel 6.3 mm headphone output, allowing direct listening without an additional amplifier.
Its conversion is based on a dual ESS Sabre ES9028Q2M DAC architecture, a circuit that processes the left and right channels independently: this separation of processing paths improves channel separation and reduces overall signal noise. Volume control is handled by a low-noise, low-resistance analogue ladder circuit, with a ground-referenced digitally controlled dual-mono shunt, designed not to add any extra noise or distortion when adjusting levels. Each input has independent volume control, allowing the level to be matched between multiple sources. The low-noise power supply, with anti-vibration treatment, limits mains hum, a sensitive point on this type of device.
The DAC-9X supports MQA decoding as well as PCM and DSD formats, with variable bitrates depending on the input used: up to PCM 384 kHz/24-bit and DSD256 via USB, up to PCM 384 kHz/32-bit and DSD256 via HDMI I2S, and up to PCM 192 kHz/24-bit and DSD64 via coaxial or optical. Its analogue RCA and XLR outputs deliver 4 Vrms and 8 Vrms respectively, with a signal-to-noise ratio of 110 dB and total harmonic distortion below 0.0005%.
This type of device is aimed at audiophiles wishing to simplify their setup by removing a separate preamplifier, as well as home studio users seeking a precise digital source capable of driving a power amplifier directly. The headphone output also makes it a versatile solution for high-resolution headphone listening.
Technical specifications
| RCA output power | 4 Vrms |
| XLR output power | 8 Vrms |
| Signal to noise ratio | 110 dB, 20 Hz to 20 kHz (+/- 0.3 dB) |
| THD+N | < 0.0005 % |
| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 235 x 60 x 281 mm |
| Weight | 2.5 kg |
| Connections | 1x USB type B input, 1x RCA coaxial S/PDIF input, 1x Toslink optical S/PDIF input, 1x stereo RCA input, 2x HDMI I2S inputs, 1x RCA output, 1x stereo XLR output, 1x optical S/PDIF output, 1x front-panel headphone output |
What to check before buying used
On this dual ESS Sabre DAC architecture, it is best to check that both channels remain perfectly matched in level and that no background noise, hiss or crackling appears when switching inputs. The analogue ladder volume circuit should turn smoothly without any abrupt jumps in level, and each input (USB, S/PDIF, HDMI I2S) is worth testing individually to rule out a faulty connector or internal relay. Checking MQA and DSD decoding on the digital inputs also helps confirm that no update or chip has been affected by heavy use.
Looking for this reference: DAC-9X ?
Tell us what you are looking for: our merchants are notified, and one of them may have it in stock.