AUDIOLAB 9000A > Paul Rigby, The Audiophile Man, review

It was back in mid 2019 that I reviewed Audiolab’s 6000A integrated amplifier. That particular design left a big impression on me. There wasn’t and still isn’t a great deal of serious competition for integrated amplifiers under £1,000. Some observers – rather oddly, I have to say – still see that market as ‘crowded’ but I would disagree. Sure, there are numerous designs out there but the numbers of seriously competitive amplifiers available to buy under £1,000? They are actually few in number.
Audiolab saw this and decided to attack that particular consumer sector and did a tremendous job, producing a balanced and accomplished amplifier design. One that, to my mind, is the best all rounder for the price.

CONCLUSION - AUDIOLAB 9000A REVIEW

The 9000A is a fascinating release. I have a theory. It’s probably totally wrong but it’s a theory, nevertheless. I think Audiolab recognise that there’s competition all over the place at this price point and so are trying to shave a piece of this crowded market by under-cutting much of the competition by just enough to attract the attention to those who are being careful with their budget. To that aim, the 9000A uses tried and trusted tech such as the Omnia-based screen and software to keep costs as low as possible. For that price then, you get an immensely capable amplifier that does a job and does it well.
The 9000A has to work harder in this price sector just to stand still at this price point. And it does so. Audiolab has a winner here. This is a top quality amplifier.
That is, the 9000A is sonically impressive and it captivates. It never forces music onto your ears. It doesn’t tell you what to hear. It never dominates the rest of your HiFi. Instead, the 9000A sets out to charm and delight. And it does just that.
- Paul Rigby, The Audiophile Man, Feb 2023

AUDIOLAB 9000A
Paul Rigby, The Audiophile Man