Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Delivers well-balanced sound rich in detail, with a dense, tangible midrange, and deep, controlled bass.
- Can serve as a preamplifier with adjustable output voltage for signals delivered through digital inputs.
- Features NuPrime's SRC IC chip, which ensures DSP processing and minimizes jitter.
- Improves the sound quality of various budget digital sources.
- Equipped with a wide selection of connectors, allowing the device to accept signals from almost any digital source.
Takeaway: The DAC-8 is a versatile DAC capable of improving sound quality, especially for budget sources. It delivers balanced sound and offers preamplifier functionality, making it a great addition to any hifi audio setup.
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Manufacturer details
- USB Input: Type B 2.0 Hi-Speed, up to 384KHz/24Bit and Native DSD 256
- IIS/DSD Input: Supports PCM 44.1KHz ~ 384KHz/32Bit and DSD 64 ~ DSD 256
- Optical Input: Supports PCM 44.1KHz ~ 192KHz/24Bit and DOP 64
- Coaxial Input: Supports PCM 44.1KHz ~ 384KHz/24Bit and DOP 64/128
- RCA Output: 2 Vrms
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 KHz / ±0.3 dB
- SNR: > 110 dB
- THD+N: < 0.005%
- AC Voltage: 90VAC~130VAC // 210VAC~ 250VAC with Voltage Select Switch
- Dimensions: 55 x 235 x 281 mm (H x W x D)
- Weight: 2kg
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- NuPrime's designs incorporate their proprietary Class D amplification techniques, deviating significantly from off-the-shelf modules by using higher switching frequencies and custom-designed circuits.
- They often include a unique Harmonic Generation Circuit, utilizing Class A transistors, to provide a warmer, more tube-like sound in their solid-state designs.
Select products
STA-9
- Positioning: A hybrid Class A+D amplifier offering both stereo and mono operation with a design aimed at delivering warm, tube-like sound at an accessible price point.
- Description: Uses an enhanced even-order harmonic circuit, high switching frequency, and refined linear power supply to produce transparent sound with controlled dynamics. Compared to higher-priced models in the lineup, it provides balanced performance for typical home setups and moderate soundstage needs.
PRA-9X
- Positioning: A fully balanced preamplifier designed for ultra-low distortion and precise phono input processing at an attractive entry-level price.
- Description: Achieves low THD through a specialized audio relay switch and NJR MUSES8820 op-amp circuitry while offering versatile settings for different MM cartridges. Compared to the integrated IA-9X, it emphasizes refined source input quality for users focused on vinyl playback and detailed analog transmission.
IA-9X
- Positioning: An integrated amplifier that combines modern Class-D efficiency with adjustable harmonic generation to allow a choice between a neutral or warmer sound signature.
- Description: Dual-circuit design combines Only Distortion Cancellation with a Harmonic Generation mode, letting users select a sound character that suits diverse musical genres. Compared to the PRA-9X and AMG PRA, it merges amplification and preamplification in one unit.
AMG PRA
- Positioning: A transparent preamplifier that introduces an active low frequency and harmonic gain control feature to enhance bass performance.
- Description: Features a selectable four-stage control that extends low-frequency response without raising overall volume, backed by a fully balanced design and high input impedance. Compared to lower-priced models, it delivers advanced analog source input performance and tone customization.
Evolution STA
- Positioning: A flagship stereo amplifier delivering exceptional distortion cancellation and robust dual-mono performance for demanding audio setups.
- Description: Only Distortion Cancellation (ODC) Class-D design, high switching frequency, and enhanced power supply work together to provide natural sound with superior clarity and controlled dynamics. Compared to the other models in the lineup, it targets users with high expectations for premium sound quality and larger room applications.
Our take on the brand
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Nuprime
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Versatile with a multitude of inputs including USB, coax, optical, I2S, and an analog input, making it adaptable to different setups
- Crisp, clean and clear sound delivers information in an organised and coherent way
- Impressive build quality with solid and crisply finished casework
- Compact design makes it suitable for desktop use due to its small size and headphone output
- Headphone output can drive open-back and closed-back headphone designs
Product Considerations
- The position of the volume control toggle switch on the front panel may lead to accidental switching—potentially causing damage to speakers
- It remembers the volume level per input, which can lead to unwanted surprises when switching between sources
- The sound can be slightly lean and sterile when first used from cold
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Chord Qutest: The Chord Qutest offers more insightful and expressive performance with better rhythmic drive
Takeaway: The DAC-9X is a versatile DAC/preamp that works well in a variety of systems, offering a multitude of inputs and outputs. With its compact design and good sound, it is worth considering for those looking for an all-in-one solution
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Fantastic sound quality and usability for the price
- Easy to set up and use
- Includes the OptiBox, which improves sound quality via optical Ethernet connection
- Streams hi-res files and DSD without converting to PCM first
- Has a custom DAC that sounds phenomenal
Product Considerations
- There can be occasional lag when switching songs
- No hardware remote is supplied
- The screen is on the smaller side and may be difficult to see at a distance
- The NEO Stream is not an all-in-one media hub, as it doesn't have any other inputs aside from network and USB storage, and it doesn't work as a DAC for other sources
- No Bluetooth capability
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Bluesound Node, the iFi NEO Stream has a larger, more organic sound and a wider soundstage
- Compared to the Cambridge Audio CXN V2, the Cambridge has S/PDIF inputs (coaxial and optical) like the NEO, but includes a Type-B USB input for its DAC, and also has balanced XLR stereo outputs, but lacks the iFi's more advanced networking connectivity
Takeaway: The iFi NEO Stream is an impressive streaming DAC. It offers great sound quality, multiple features and makes enjoying high-quality streamed audio easy.
Video review
Our take on the brand
We shouldn't have favourites but CXN100 is something else. Hi-fi specialists and our listeners alike loved its predecessor CXN V2 – just wait until they hear this.
CXN100 will instantly transform a classic hi-fi stack into a system with a bright future. And because it's a network device, CXN100's firmware can be upgraded remotely, via our StreamMagic app, to receive the latest services. CXN100 Network Player's screen
Forever Changes
The first thing you'll notice is the big hi-res colour screen – all the better for album artwork. We've changed the volume control too, to do one thing well with a reassuringly tactile response. Inside, we take things up a level with a new ESS ES9028Q2M SABRE32 DAC and our Gen 4 StreamMagic module. Redesigned, expertly tuned, and simplified circuitry for a purer signal path, complete the picture. Smartphone playing music through the CXN100
Ready for the Revolution?
The convenience of streamed music was once let-down by its quality. That's no longer the case – thanks to better CODECS, broadband speeds and products like CXN100. It's designed to deliver the effortless accessibility of the digital format, but with the uncompromised sonic excellence that comes with over 55 years of designing hi-fi, and well over a decade perfecting our StreamMagic platform. StreamMagic app screenshots
Whatever you Want
CXN100 has free and subscription hi-res streaming services, like internet radio, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect with MQA, Qobuz, and Deezer on board for the best available sound quality. With Apple Airplay2 and Chromecast built-in, you can access Apple Music, Amazon Music, BBC Sounds and more. CXN100 is also Roon Ready, consolidating your digital music browsing experience in one place. CXN100 internal circuit board
The Whole Story
CXN100's circuitry has been totally re-designed to capitalise on the ESS ES9028Q2M SABRE32 Digital Analogue Converter's 32-bit capabilities. We've been able to simplify the audio signal path and tune our carefully chosen components' performance to make sure that nothing comes between you and the original recording. The result? A warmth, depth and nuance not often associated with digital audio. CXN100's StreamMagic Gen4 Module
StreamMagic
If the DAC is the CXN100's heart, then our StreamMagic Gen 4 module is its brain. It runs our custom-made streaming platform and app, which we've perfected for well-over a decade. It's responsible for the network player's slick, seamless and stable listening experience from any digital source. CXN100's firmware can also be upgraded over-the-air to receive updates and access to new services. Young man enjoying the sound of a CX range stack, including the CXN100 Network Player
Control. Pure and Simple
A beautifully smooth volume dial and large colour display take the experience of playing music from CXN100 up a level. The StreamMagic app is your remote control, giving you intuitive command of connected sources – curate playlists, program pre-sets or browse albums from the comfort of your listening position. CXN100 also works with the physical remote control supplied with CXC and CXA components. Remote control available here
CX stack on an hi-fi rack, including the CXN100 Network Player, CXC and CXA81
Designed for Life
With elegant, minimalistic lines, crafted from aluminium and steel, CXN100 will endure physically and aesthetically for many years to come. Its ability to receive over-air updates should repay your investment too. Making products that last is just one of the ways that we can minimise our impact on the planet and maximise your listening pleasure. After all, great sound shouldn't cost the Earth.
Product Strengths
- Clean, precise, and articulate sound with ample detail
- Expansive and open soundstage
- StreamMagic control app is stable, logical, user-friendly, and easy to navigate
- Features AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Bluetooth, Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, Qobuz, Deezer, and internet radio
Product Considerations
- Loses a touch of its predecessor's sonic solidity and warmth
- Does not include HDMI ARC
- Bluetooth is only compatible with SBC and AAC codecs
- Can be provoked by careless system-matching with bright, treble-centric equipment
- Volume is not controlled through the StreamMagic app
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- CXN100 has improved clarity, precision, and spaciousness, but is missing some of the CXN (V2)'s sonic solidity and warmth, compared to the Cambridge Audio CXN (V2)
- CXN100 trades off detail functionality to offer a user experience that is polished and genuinely pleasurable, and is able to take less than stellar recordings and avoid sounding strident or aggressive a little better than the EverSolo DMP-A6
- CXN100 has better low end and a slightly greater perception of space, compared to the Cambridge Audio MXN10
- CXN100 has a more natural quality to vocals with better realism and less fatigue, compared to the Bluesound Node
Takeaway: The CXN100 is a user-friendly and feature-rich music streamer that provides clear and detailed sound. It is an excellent choice for those seeking to add modern streaming capabilities to a classic hifi system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Solid digital sound, good authority, solid bass, and a weighty sound with good scale
- Excellent clarity, very good timing, and a very good soundstage
- Outstanding build quality—solidly made and near indestructible
- Versatile unit that can become the hub of the digital audio world
- Clean and effortless digital processing
- Connectivity options
Product Considerations
- The Lightning DS app is only available for iOS
- The 4-inch non-touch screen is adequate, but not exceptional
- When written instructions feature on the screen, the words can be small and difficult to see
- The alphabetical order of the albums is not followed when used with an external hard drive
- Some reviewers felt a need for a high-end turntable setup, as the analog input feeds directly to the analog output stage—bypassing the digital stage altogether
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs NAD M10 V2: The Altair offers a step up in sound quality
- Vs AURALiC Aries G1: The Altair G2.1 chassis is a significant upgrade with an internal copper sub-chassis, tuned feet, and a solid steel base
Takeaway: The AURALiC Altair G2.1 is a versatile and well-built streaming DAC preamplifier that offers a clean and detailed sound. Comprehensive features and excellent sound quality make it a great choice for audiophiles looking for an all-in-one solution.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent and responsive touchscreen display, and user-friendly interface that is intuitive and easy to navigate
- Versatile as an all-in-one device, functioning as a streamer, DAC, pre-amp, and media storage server with a competitive price point
- High build quality, featuring a solid aluminum alloy chassis
- Supports a wide variety of streaming services, including Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Music, and more
- Rock solid as a streamer, especially when going into a separate DAC
Product Considerations
- Customer support from Eversolo may be limited, with some reviewers noting slow or nonexistent responses to inquiries
- Internal DAC, while good, is not on par with higher-end—more expensive DACs
- Lack of a traditional I/R remote could be a drawback for some users
- Some unusual control procedures are noted, such as the inability to power on the unit from the mobile app
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The DMP-A6 sounds just as good as the Lumin U2 Mini as a streamer
- The A6 beats the Bluesound Node when used only as a streamer
- The A6 has similar features, a similar control/display, and a similar size and shape
- The Lumin U2 has more "shine", dynamics, solidity and is a touch more refined than the A6
- The Eversolo is favored over the iFi Neo Stream, especially as a streaming DAC
- Eversolo proves it can play with Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) in many ways
Takeaway: The Eversolo DMP-A6 is a versatile and user-friendly streamer that delivers great value, and it provides a great streaming experience with its screen. It is a great entry point into high-resolution digital audio and can serve as the center of a modern hifi system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The NEO iDSD 2 functions as a versatile all-in-one (AIO) solution, working as a DAC, headphone amplifier, and preamplifier
- It has a significantly more powerful amplifier section than its predecessor, making it better at driving a wider range of headphones
- Includes sound-shaping features such as XBass and XSpace, plus selectable digital filters, allowing users to customize the sound
- Comprehensive connectivity options include USB, S/PDIF (coaxial/optical), Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless, and both balanced XLR and single-ended RCA outputs
Product Considerations
- The amplifier section may not be powerful enough to drive some very power-hungry headphones to their full potential
- The Nexis app only works with a 2.4ghz WiFi signal
- There is a slight click or noise when switching inputs as a pre-amp
- Some reviewers would have preferred the inclusion of the iPower X power adapter instead of the iPower V2, considering the unit's price
- The variable volume output may not save the last used settings
Takeaway: The iFi Audio NEO iDSD 2 combines a high-quality DAC with a significantly improved headphone amplifier, making it a good all-in-one solution for desktop audio. With its wide range of features, solid build quality, and pleasing sound, the NEO iDSD 2 is a worthwhile upgrade.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent sonic performance, characterized by neutrality, transparency, and detail retrieval
- The MA Remote app is intuitive and feature-rich, offering access to various streaming services and settings
- Solid build quality with an aluminum chassis, though the sides are plastic, and a bright, clear LCD screen
- Versatile connectivity with a wide array of inputs, including USB-C for external storage, HDMI ARC, optical, coaxial, and analog RCA inputs
Product Considerations
- Lacks wireless connectivity—no Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
- Does not come with a physical remote, the RM5 is sold separately
- Some users have experienced issues with navigating large local music libraries
- Some reviews mention the touch screen controls being a bit fiddly
- No digital output to support an external DAC
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bluesound Node (2021): Mini-i 4 has better detail retrieval and is cleaner sounding
- Vs EverSolo DMP-A6: DMP-A6 sounds more natural with bolder bass and better soundstaging, while Mini-i 4 sounds tonally and spatially flatter
- Vs Matrix Audio Mini-i 3 Pro: Mini-i 4 has a wider range of source repositories and USB storage reader
Takeaway: The Matrix Audio Mini-i 4 is a great sounding device for anyone wanting a DAC and streamer that can do it all. With its comprehensive set of features and focus on audio quality, enjoying music becomes easy.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptional build quality, with a premium feel thanks to the aluminum chassis and attention to detail
- Clean, crisp, and clear sound, with a neutral presentation that resolves detail well
- Well-implemented headphone amplifier that can drive a wide range of headphones, and the headphone level reverts to the last used
- Bright and crisp LCD screen with VU meters adding to its visual appeal
- Versatile connectivity with USB-B, USB-C, optical, coaxial, and Bluetooth inputs, as well as balanced XLR and RCA outputs
Product Considerations
- Lacks HDMI ARC input, which would be useful for hybrid setups
- Some reviewers find the treble a little aggressive and fatiguing with certain recordings or speakers
- No Wi-Fi or Ethernet connectivity, meaning a computer or other network streaming device is needed
- No dedicated subwoofer output
- Not a tone control, those looking for a colored or editorialized sound should look elsewhere
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Z8 has a more nuanced presentation and better separation than the Cambridge Audio DACMagic 200M
- The Z8 is smoother with a darker background on the headphone output, but the SMSL M500 MKII is warmer and fuller sounding on the line outputs
- The Z8 has a cleaner sound, darker background, and deeper soundstage on the line-outs than the Topping DX5, but the DX5 has more powerful headphone amplification
- Java Hi-Fi gives a slightly cleaner presentation with more authority in the bass than the Z8
Takeaway: The Eversolo DAC-Z8 is a well-built and versatile DAC that delivers a clean and detailed sound. It is a great option for users looking for a high-quality DAC with a range of features, including a headphone amplifier and preamp capabilities.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Easy streaming setup
- BluOS streaming platform is stable, responsive, and organized, which allows one to access local and networked libraries
- The internal DAC allows one to run the NODE directly into a preamp, integrated amplifier, or pair of powered/active loudspeakers as a source
- Has digital and analog outputs, a USB, Optical, and COAX out, as well as a SUBWOOFER OUT
Product Considerations
- BluOS control app isn't as user-friendly as some competitors, taking time to master
- There's no supplied remote
- Tone controls remain oddly limited in variable range
- Some reviewers recommend connecting via ethernet cable for a stable connection
- The BlueOS apps have issues, and the player intermittently will not be detected in iphone, ipad and windows desktop app
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Cambridge Audio MXN10 offers superior dynamic transparency and rhythmic insight, but the Bluesound Node is still an appealing affordable box
Takeaway: The Node is a great way to add streaming to an existing system and delivers high-quality audio with versatile connectivity. It offers a comprehensive set of features to turn an audio system into a modern music-streaming system.
Video review
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