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
- Has both balanced and unbalanced input jacks
Product Considerations
- The STA-9 power amplifier sounded rather bright to the reviewer, making some music unpleasant to listen to
Takeaway: The STA-9 amplifier can be part of a modular system that lets you pick the features you want at a reasonable price. It might be worth buying if you have speakers that have rolled-off high frequencies
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STA-9
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Power: 2 X 120W / 1 X 290W @ 8 & 4 Ohms
- Peak Output Power: 2 X 280W / 1 X 320W @ 8 & 4 Ohms
- Input Impedance: 47k Ohms
- Output Impedance: 20m Ohm
- Input sensitivity: 232.8mV, 1W @ 8 Ohms; 1.4V to rated power
- Gain: x 22 (x 42 for mono)
- Signal to Noise Ratio: < -95dB at 1W, 10W, 100W
- Dynamic range: -115dB to 0dB at 1kHz
- THD+N: 0.02% (Stereo) / 0.01% (Mono)
- Frequency Response: 10Hz to 50kHz
- AC Fuse: Slow-blow, 3A, 250VAC
- Idle-power consumption: below 14W (110V), below 16W (230V)
- Product Dimension: 55 x 235 x 281 mm (H x W x D)
- Package Dimension: 80 x 390 x 360 mm (H x W x D)
- Product Weight: 4kg
- Package Weight: 5kg
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.
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Nuprime
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Powerful Class A/D stereo power amplifier, with an output of 2x 130Watt at 4 and 8 Ohms
- Can be used as a 'monoblock' to output 1x 330 Watt of 4 and 8 Ohm output power
- Dual-mono construction, with both single-ended RCA input and a balanced XLR input
- Firm grip and well controlled lows
- Trigger input and output automatically switch it on/off when the DAC9-X or a pre-amp is switched on
Product Considerations
- When using two STA-9X power amps in bridged mode, you can't connect the high level input of a subwoofer to the speaker terminals on the amp
- Combining the DAC9-X, STA-9X, and Streamline still results in a slightly bright sound
Takeaway: The STA-9X offers good value for its features and sound quality. With its ability to be bridged for even more power, it is a solution for speakers that need more current.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our summary
Product Strengths
- High sound quality for its price
- Fluidity, delicacy, and refinement reminiscent of classic Jeff Rowland amplifiers
- A 30% reduction in MOSFET temperature during high-speed operation exceeding 750kHz, enhancing energy efficiency and ensuring sound stability
- Aerospace-grade ultra-high-precision resistors with a minimal error margin of 1/1000
- A newly developed AC power supply minimizes external radiation noise interference, while a redesigned SMPS power module ensures an ultra-low-noise system power supply for circuits that require low voltages
Product Considerations
- Lacks the ST-10's sonorous ballsiness, nor entirely all of its dynamic impact
- The enhanced realism might not emulate a tube sound
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- AMG STA-SE narrows the gap between the different sound characteristics of models such as the NuPrime ST-10
- AMG STA-SE improves the tonality and elevates the realism, deeper stereo imaging, tighter bass, more dynamics, and transparency
Takeaway: The AMG STA-SE delivers high sound quality with enhanced precision and detail. It is a true value amplifier that is worth keeping for a long time
Video review
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Giant Killer Galion TS A75 Power Amp
Why is this called a giant killer? The performance of this amplifier is so good that you will question whether the significantly more expensive amplifier you are currently shopping for is truly better than this one; for those who prefer XLR, the TS A75 comes with both XLR and RCA inputs.
High current design
Sure, it is only 75w, but there is so much power and control with the TS A75 that you might mistake it for a 200w amplifier instead. We designed the TS A75 to deliver quality watts over quantity watts. This amp will grip your bass drivers with authority and control.
Dynamic Bass
With two 200W toroidal transformers and 20 capacitors, giving a total of 200k uf of capacitance bank for both channels, while most affordable amplifiers have about 40k uf, the bass on the TS A75 will make you wonder if you even need to turn on your subwoofer. Not only is the bass impactful and gut-punching, but it is also tight and fast.
Airy Holographic 3D Soundstage
The airy 3D soundstage of the TS A75 is so good that it can even challenge tube-integrated amps. If you have been curious about what audiophiles mean when they talk about this mysterious 'air' in the soundstage, you no longer need to feel left out because the TS A75 has so much air that it can rival expensive amplifiers. Having an airy soundstage is one of the main advantages of the TS A75 current feedback design over the voltage feedback design.
High-Quality Build
The TS A75 custom chassis and big heatsink were designed to keep the unit cool. As a result, the amplifier barely runs warm, which means the capacitors will have a longer lifespan. In addition, we built the amp to have a thick chassis, so you don't have to worry about stacking your preamp on top.
True High Resolution
You might have heard of this audiophile joke, "My system is so resolving that I can hear a pin dropping." Although this is an exaggeration, high-end systems are more detailed than entry-level systems, and you can hear everything effortlessly. The TS A75 will allow you to hear the pin dropping. You will hear things in the recording you have never heard before. The saying, 'A veil has been lifted,' is how you will feel with the TS A75.
Midrange clarity
Besides the sparkling top-end detail, one of the things that will catch your attention right away is the midrange clarity. The saying, 'I can hear the vocal chords of the singer,' is not a dream with this amplifier. Never before have we seen this level of clarity with an affordable amplifier.
Extreme Dynamic Contrast
One thing you will notice right away with the TS A75 is its incredible dynamic contrast. Highs extend further up, the bass hits lower and harder, and the swing from quiet to loud passages seems instantaneous. The TS A75 is an exciting amp to listen to, especially if you are into classical music, where there is significant variation in dynamics.
True Balanced Circuit
The TS A75 features a genuine XLR balanced design. When using a long interconnect cable with the TS A75, opt for XLR connections to experience reduced noise and a darker background.
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a tube-like sound, with a warm and musical presentation
- Robust power supply with substantial capacitance (200,000 microfarads) provides good bass control and dynamics
- Transparent and precise sound, with a wide and deep soundstage
- Balanced design with both RCA and XLR inputs, the latter offering a cleaner and more dynamic sound
- Offers excellent value, outperforming other amplifiers in a similar price range
Product Considerations
- Requires a pre-amplifier to control volume
- May exhibit slight transformer noise when close to the unit
- Does not have pop control, requiring caution when plugging/unplugging connections
- Some reviewers found the logo placement slightly off-center and the blue LED power light too bright
- Bass control is not as punchy or defined for some tastes, leaning towards a tube-like bass delivery
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The TSA-75 has a different, more flavorful sound signature compared to the Orchard Audio's neutral sound
- The TSA-75 provides superior micro detail, cleanliness, clarity, and stereo imaging, compared to Schiit Audio Vidar 2
- Performance is head-to-head with the Denafrips Thalo, depending on sound preference—the more balanced, snappy presentation of the Thalo, or the more V-shaped sound with greater depth and soundstage of the TSA-75
- The TSA-75 has a distinct sound signature, unlike Emotiva amps
- The TSA-75 outperforms the McIntosh MC275 Mark VI in audiophile performance
Takeaway: The Galion Audio TS A75 is a well-built amplifier that delivers a warm, tube-like sound with good bass and a wide soundstage. It provides excellent value and is a great choice for those looking for a musical and engaging listening experience.
Video review
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Robust, effortless power with excellent control makes it easy to drive all speakers with authority and deliver a satisfying listening experience.
- Balanced and neutral sound, with a solid low end that prevents it from sounding dull or anemic, while also ensuring it is not too aggressive to cause listening fatigue.
- Excellent timing makes music engaging and foot-tapping, and is particularly impressive with genres such as R&B and soundtracks.
- Built in the USA, it has a 5 year warranty and 15 day satisfaction guarantee
Product Considerations
- Not ideal for listeners seeking a romantic, sweet, and smooth midrange, or those who prefer a very lively sound.
- The amp required careful system matching to achieve its full potential, particularly needing a high-end preamp to unlock greater refinement and resolution.
- Bass performance might be seriously challenged by more modern amplifiers.
- There is a slight differential in gain
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Emotiva A1s, the Tyr has more bass, more clarity in the bass, and is less veiled overall
- Reminiscent of McIntosh 7270—the Tyr gives off similar 'Mac vibes'.
Takeaway:
The Schiit Tyr monoblocks deliver a lot of power and control, making music sound good with a balanced and neutral style. It's a great option for an amplifier that can handle almost any speaker and is versatile.
Video review
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What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a clean and detailed sound, allowing listeners to hear nuances in recordings
- Offers good instrument separation and imaging
- Has a low noise floor, creating a 'black background' and enhancing the listening experience
- Compact size for an A-B amplifier
- Does not have RCA inputs, requiring XLR or TRS balanced connections
Product Considerations
- May not have enough power for inefficient speakers or large rooms
- External power supply 'brick' is large
- No remote control
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The LA90 has a more neutral sound than Cambridge Audio AXA25, which is cleaner and more detailed
- The LA90 comes close to Benchmark AHB2's performance, but does not outperform it in bass impact and soundstage size, and the AHB2 also has more protection systems
- The LA90 offers more vocal clarity and fuller bottom end than Schiit Vidar, but the Vidar is more exciting on top
- Emotiva A1's have more power
Takeaway: The Topping LA-90 Discrete is a small amplifier that produces very clear sound with good detail, making it great for those who already have balanced audio equipment. It could be a nice upgrade for those seeking to hear all the subtleties in their music.
Video review
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Impressive specs and measurements showcase extremely low noise and distortion
- Clean and transparent sound aims for a neutral reproduction of music
- Compact size and sleek design make it suitable for small spaces
- CNC machined aluminum chassis allows for maximum thermal flow to keep the unit running cool
Product Considerations
- Included external power supply is large and heavy, which can be a challenge to hide
- Power output may be limiting, especially with demanding speakers and for high dynamic range tracks
- Bass performance, while tight and controlled, may lack sub-bass extension and impact for some listeners
- Lack of a remote control limits its convenience as an integrated amplifier
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Discrete version matches the Topping LA90 IC based unit's exemplary performance, but betters it in power handling
- The Topping LA90 comes close to the Benchmark AHB2 in noise floor and detail retrieval, but the AHB2 has more power, impactful bass, and a bigger soundstage
Takeaway: The Topping LA90 is a compact and technically proficient amplifier that delivers a clean and transparent sound and with impressive specs. It is best suited for those with efficient speakers and a preference for accurate sound reproduction without coloration.
Video review
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Bass performance is taut, detailed, and well-dampened
- Delivers a neutral presentation overall
- Has a solid steel chassis and milled aluminum faceplate
- The A1 is able to drive low impedance speakers with power and grandeur
- Produces 200 watts into 8 ohms and 325-350 watts into 4 ohms
- Only has a single line-level RCA-style input
Product Considerations
- Audible tweeter hiss may be present at idle, especially with highly efficient speakers
- High frequencies are not as smooth at the edges, exhibiting just faint traces of grain when listening at above-average levels
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Rotel 1592 MkII amp: A1 is notably quieter and more detailed
- Vs Crown XLS Drive Core 2 amps: A1 is equally neutral in tone, has a lower noise floor, and a more consumer-friendly design
- Vs Schiit Vidar: A1 has a larger soundstage
Takeaway: The BasX A1 monoblock amplifier delivers good power and a neutral sound signature. It is a great option for those looking to expand an existing AVR or build a cost-effective hi-fi system.
Video review
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- A very quiet background allows detailed music to emerge clearly
- Plenty of power (150W into 8 Ohms) exhibits good control, speed and dynamics
- GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology is used for efficient power throughput and performance, which shakes the bad reputation of Class D amps
- A neutral sound signature aims to reproduce the recording accurately
- Compact size allows for flexible placement and short speaker cables
- Balanced XLR cable connections are required, RCA connections need a separate adapter (sold by Orchard Audio)
Product Considerations
- Visually, the amps may not appeal to those seeking 'audiophile eye candy'
- A power cable is not included unless specified
- A power indicator light is absent
- In certain system pairings, the sound can be analytical or bright
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Starkrimson provides micron-precise separation, while the First Watt F5 thickens things up a touch
- Starkrimson offers more power and benefits from being a monoblock chassis, while the Gold Note IS-10 does not
- Starkrimson offers more power and better control over the bass, as well as speed, compared to the Nakamichi PA-5 Stasis
Takeaway: The Orchard Audio Starkrimson Mono Premium amps deliver power and performance in a small size, and are especially good for audiophiles that seek a neutral sound, lots of detail, and excellent value. These amps could be a great fit for anyone wanting a modern and efficient hifi experience.
Video review
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Clean and well-focused sound with a good soundstage
- Good sense of depth and soundstage, with lifelike and detailed vocals and instruments
- Very clean signal with low noise
- Excellent build quality with a solid, all-metal construction
- Three balanced inputs (XLR or TRS)
Product Considerations
- Lacks RCA inputs, limiting connectivity for some users
- Some reviewers felt that the sound lacked dynamics and energy compared to other amplifiers
- Highs are detailed, but could be a problem depending on the speaker selection
- Separate 12-volt trigger leads could be a hassle in some setups
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Fosi Audio V3 Monos, the B200s deliver a slightly wider soundstage and better resolution of detail
- Vs Schiit Audio Aegir Classic monoblocks, the B200 delivers clean transparent and spacious sound, micro detail and resolution is a bit better with better separation between the notes
Takeaway: The Topping B200 monoblock amplifiers offer a clean and detailed sound with excellent build quality, making them a good option for audiophiles seeking a high-performance, small-footprint amplifier setup Their balanced inputs and powerful output make them a versatile addition to any serious listening environment
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