Audio T Verdict
The Audiolab 9000P distils the power-amplifier section of the flagship 9000 Series into a flexible standalone component with plenty of drive for demanding loudspeakers.
Its Class AB output stage delivers 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 160 watts into 4 ohms, backed by 15-amp maximum current delivery, a 320VA toroidal transformer and 60,000µF of reservoir capacity.
Balanced and RCA inputs, stereo and bridged operation, bi-amplification potential and 12V trigger control make it an excellent partner for the Audiolab 9000Q, while also allowing it to strengthen a suitable existing system.
Audiolab 9000P Stereo Power Amplifier
The Audiolab 9000P is a dedicated Class AB power amplifier designed to partner the 9000Q preamplifier and other compatible products with a volume-controlled analogue output.
In stereo mode, it delivers 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 160 watts per channel into 4 ohms.
For systems requiring greater output, two 9000P amplifiers can be switched into bridged mono operation, providing one high-power amplifier for each loudspeaker.
A Preamplifier Is Required
The 9000P has no source selection, volume control, DAC, phono stage, headphone output or wireless connectivity.
It must receive a volume-controlled signal from a preamplifier, compatible integrated amplifier, variable-output DAC or suitably equipped music streamer.
Class AB Amplification
The 9000P uses a discrete Class AB amplifier stage rather than a compact Class D module.
This topology combines the low crossover distortion associated with Class A operation at small signal levels with the greater efficiency needed to provide substantial output power.
The amplifier becomes warm during normal use and requires open, unrestricted ventilation.
Complementary Feedback Technology
Audiolab’s Complementary Feedback circuit is designed to improve linearity and thermal stability.
The topology helps keep the output stage’s idle current less dependent on changes in transistor temperature, supporting consistent performance as the amplifier reaches its normal operating temperature.
This circuit architecture is also used within the power-amplifier section of the Audiolab 9000A integrated amplifier.
100 Watts Per Channel into 8 Ohms
In stereo mode, the 9000P delivers 100 watts to each channel into an 8-ohm load with total harmonic distortion below one per cent at the rated output.
This provides useful headroom for a broad selection of standmount and floorstanding loudspeakers.
The published maximum current delivery of 15 amps helps the amplifier maintain control when a speaker’s impedance changes during demanding musical passages.
160 Watts Per Channel into 4 Ohms
Output rises to 160 watts per channel when driving a 4-ohm load.
This increase demonstrates the amplifier’s ability to supply additional current as the electrical demand placed upon it becomes greater.
A speaker’s nominal impedance does not reveal its complete electrical behaviour, so sensitivity, minimum impedance, crossover design, room size and intended listening level should also be considered.
Arrange a Speaker-Matching Demonstration
The 9000P has substantial capability, but no amplifier is the perfect partner for every loudspeaker.
A demonstration is particularly worthwhile with insensitive speakers, difficult impedance curves, large rooms or high listening levels.
15-Amp Maximum Output Current
Audiolab specifies a maximum output current of 15 amps.
Current delivery is particularly important when loudspeaker impedance falls below its nominal rating or when the music contains a sudden and demanding low-frequency transient.
The combination of voltage, current delivery and power-supply capacity helps the 9000P maintain control rather than relying upon headline wattage alone.
320VA Toroidal Transformer
A custom-specified 320VA toroidal transformer supplies the power-amplifier circuitry.
Toroidal transformers provide substantial power within a relatively compact package and can produce a lower external magnetic field than some conventional transformer designs when implemented correctly.
The transformer is partnered with a large reservoir-capacitor bank to support the amplifier during short musical peaks.
60,000µF Reservoir Capacity
Four 15,000µF reservoir capacitors provide a total capacity of 60,000µF.
These capacitors store electrical energy for the output stage, helping the amplifier respond quickly when the music requires a sudden increase in power.
The combination of the transformer, reservoir capacity and output devices contributes to the amplifier’s dynamic capability and loudspeaker control.
Stereo Operation
One 9000P normally operates as a conventional two-channel power amplifier.
The left input drives the left loudspeaker output and the right input drives the right loudspeaker output.
The rear Stereo/Bridge selector must be set to Stereo, and the appropriate RCA or XLR input must be selected before the system is used.
Switch the amplifier off before changing its operating mode or altering any input or speaker connections.
Bridged Mono Operation
The 9000P can be switched from two-channel stereo operation into a single-channel bridged mode.
In this configuration, both internal amplifier channels work together to drive one loudspeaker, increasing the available output to 300 watts into 8 ohms or 380 watts into 4 ohms.
A complete stereo system therefore requires two 9000P amplifiers, with one unit assigned to the left loudspeaker and the other to the right.
Bridge Mode Requires Different Connections
Bridge mode uses the left input and the speaker terminals specifically marked for bridged operation.
Do not use the normal stereo wiring arrangement. Follow the Audiolab manual carefully or ask Audio T to configure the system.
300 Watts in Bridged 8-Ohm Operation
Two bridged 9000P amplifiers can provide 300 watts to each channel into 8 ohms.
This arrangement can offer greater headroom for large rooms, insensitive loudspeakers and recordings with wide dynamic range.
The improvement is not simply about achieving a louder maximum volume. Additional power can also provide greater freedom during short musical peaks when used with suitable loudspeakers.
Bridged Speaker Matching
Bridging an amplifier changes the electrical demand placed upon each internal channel, making careful speaker matching especially important.
Although Audiolab publishes bridged output into both 8-ohm and 4-ohm loads, the loudspeaker’s minimum impedance and phase behaviour should be considered before choosing this configuration.
Seek advice before using bridged mode with speakers that present a particularly difficult load.
Bi-Amplification with Two 9000P Amplifiers
Two 9000P amplifiers can also be used for passive bi-amplification.
In the arrangement illustrated by Audiolab, each 9000P remains in stereo mode and powers the separate input sections of one compatible loudspeaker.
The loudspeakers must provide separate terminals for their frequency sections, and their removable linking plates must be taken out before the amplifiers are connected.
Bi-amplification should be completed only where the speaker manufacturer supports it and the wiring arrangement is fully understood.
Bi-Amplification Is Not the Same as Bridging
Both channels of each amplifier remain separate during passive bi-amplification.
The rear Stereo/Bridge selector must remain in the Stereo position. Bridge mode must not be used for the bi-amplified arrangement shown in Audiolab’s manual.
Balanced XLR Inputs
One stereo pair of balanced XLR inputs is provided.
Balanced connections can provide improved rejection of electrical interference and are particularly useful with longer cable runs or compatible fully balanced preamplifier outputs.
The matching Audiolab 9000Q includes balanced outputs and is the natural partner for this connection.
One XLR cable is required for each channel.
23dB XLR Gain
The balanced input has a fixed gain of 23dB and a published input sensitivity of 2Vrms.
This differs from the RCA input’s gain because a balanced source normally provides twice the voltage of its unbalanced equivalent.
The input-specific gain structure allows compatible RCA and XLR sources to reach the amplifier’s rated output from their expected signal levels.
Unbalanced RCA Inputs
One stereo pair of conventional RCA inputs is provided for preamplifiers, DACs and streamers without balanced outputs.
The RCA input has a published sensitivity of 1Vrms and a fixed gain of 29dB.
Use a properly screened stereo interconnect and keep the left and right channel connections consistent throughout the system.
Rear Input Selector
A rear-panel selector chooses between the balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs.
The two input types are alternatives rather than separately selectable sources for everyday use.
A power amplifier should normally remain connected to one preamplifier output, with source selection handled by the preamplifier itself.
Select the Input Before Use
Make sure the rear switch matches the connected cable type.
An RCA signal will not be heard while XLR is selected, and an XLR source will not be heard while Line is selected.
Input Sensitivity and Compatibility
The 9000P requires 1Vrms through RCA or 2Vrms through XLR to reach its rated output.
Most conventional Hi-Fi preamplifiers can provide these levels, but direct connection from a DAC or streamer requires a genuinely variable output capable of controlling volume safely.
A fixed-output CD player, transport or DAC must not be connected directly unless a suitable preamplifier or volume controller is placed between the source and power amplifier.
Matching the Audiolab 9000Q
The Audiolab 9000Q was designed as the principal preamplifier partner for the 9000P.
It provides analogue and digital source selection, balanced and RCA outputs, volume control, an MM phono stage, DAC, Bluetooth and headphone amplification.
One 9000Q can feed a single stereo 9000P, two bridged 9000P monoblocks or two stereo 9000P amplifiers configured for passive bi-amplification.
Using the 9000P with the 9000A
The variable preamplifier output of the Audiolab 9000A can feed a 9000P.
This can be used to expand an existing system or provide additional amplification for compatible passive bi-amplification arrangements.
The 9000A and the 9000P both use a 29dB power-amplifier gain through their unbalanced connection, helping them work together in an appropriately configured system.
Using a Streamer or DAC as a Preamplifier
A compatible streamer or DAC can connect directly where it provides a well-implemented variable analogue output.
The output must be set to variable mode before the power amplifier is switched on, and playback should begin at a low volume.
Products with fixed outputs, digital-only outputs or software volume controls that can unexpectedly return to maximum level should be used through a dedicated preamplifier instead.
Check the Output Mode First
A fixed line-level signal sent directly to a power amplifier can produce an extremely high playback level.
Confirm that volume control is active and set low before bringing the 9000P out of standby.
Loudspeaker Outputs
One set of substantial stereo loudspeaker terminals is provided.
In normal stereo operation, each loudspeaker connects to its corresponding left or right positive and negative terminals.
Maintain correct polarity and make sure no loose conductor strands can create a short circuit between adjacent terminals.
The bridged wiring arrangement is different and must use only the terminals identified by Audiolab for that purpose.
Speaker Cable
Use appropriately specified speaker cable suited to the system, cable length and loudspeaker load.
Keep left and right cable lengths reasonably similar and route them away from mains cables where practical.
Switch the power amplifier off before connecting, disconnecting or adjusting any loudspeaker cable.
12V Trigger Input
A 12V trigger input allows a compatible preamplifier or control system to move the 9000P between standby and operation.
The matching 9000Q provides trigger outputs that can control one or more suitable system components.
A 3.5mm-to-3.5mm trigger cable is required and is not included.
Trigger Input Only
The 9000P receives a trigger command but does not provide a trigger output for controlling another product.
Where several components require control, use the available trigger outputs on the preamplifier or a suitable control arrangement.
Front Standby Control
The uncluttered front panel contains a standby button and status LED.
The main mechanical power switch remains on the rear panel.
Once the rear switch is on, the front button brings the amplifier into operation or returns it to standby.
Automatic Standby
Automatic standby can be configured for:
- 20 minutes
- One hour
- Never
The default setting is 20 minutes.
Holding the front standby button for five seconds enters the setting procedure, with the LED flash pattern identifying the selected option.
Power-On and Shutdown Sequence
Audiolab recommends treating the 9000P as the last component switched on and the first switched off.
Switch on source components and the preamplifier before bringing the power amplifier into operation.
When shutting the system down, return the 9000P to standby or switch it off before turning off the preamplifier and sources.
This reduces the chance of startup or shutdown noises reaching the loudspeakers.
Protection Circuitry
The 9000P includes protection against gross overload, output short circuits and excessive temperature.
If protection is activated, the front power indicator flashes.
Check the speaker wiring, connected load and ventilation before attempting to restore operation with the standby button.
Repeated protection activation indicates a problem that should be investigated rather than ignored.
Ventilation
The Class AB output stage can generate substantial heat, particularly at higher listening levels or when driving demanding loudspeakers.
Install the amplifier in an open, well-ventilated position with its ventilation openings completely unobstructed.
Do not place it in a sealed cabinet, cover its case or stack another warm-running component directly above it.
Audiolab warns that the protection system cannot compensate for seriously inadequate airflow.
Give Each Power Amplifier Space
Where two 9000P amplifiers are used, place each on a strong shelf with sufficient room for heat to escape.
Do not tightly stack bridged monoblocks without suitable ventilation between them.
Equipment Support
The 9000P weighs 9.2kg and should be placed on a rigid, stable and level equipment shelf.
Make sure the furniture can support the total weight of the amplifier and any other equipment installed above or below it.
Allow adequate rear clearance for the XLR or RCA cables, speaker connections, trigger lead and mains cable.
No Remote Control
A remote handset is not required for normal use because volume and source selection are controlled by the connected preamplifier.
The 9000P’s operational controls are its front standby button and rear power, input and operating-mode switches.
Compatible trigger control can automate standby operation where required.
No DAC or Digital Inputs
The 9000P contains no optical, coaxial, USB, HDMI or network audio input.
Digital source signals must first pass through a DAC or digitally equipped preamplifier that provides a suitable analogue output.
The Audiolab 9000Q combines preamplification with an ES9038PRO DAC and is designed to fulfil this role within a complete 9000 Series system.
No Phono Stage
A turntable cannot connect directly to the 9000P.
A suitable phono stage and volume-controlled preamplifier must be placed between the cartridge and power amplifier.
The matching 9000Q includes a Moving Magnet phono input, while Moving Coil cartridges normally require a compatible external phono stage or step-up solution.
No Headphone Output
The 9000P does not contain a headphone amplifier or headphone socket.
Headphones should connect to the preamplifier, DAC or a separate headphone amplifier.
The Audiolab 9000Q includes a dedicated front-panel headphone output.
9000P or 9000A?
The 9000A combines source selection, volume control, DAC, phono stage, Bluetooth, headphone amplifier and stereo power amplification within one cabinet.
The 9000P contains only the power-amplifier stage and therefore requires a separate preamplifier.
The integrated 9000A is the more compact solution, while the 9000Q and 9000P combination offers greater system flexibility and the option to add a second 9000P for bridged mono or passive bi-amplification.
9000P or Two Bridged 9000P Amplifiers?
One stereo 9000P provides 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 160 watts per channel into 4 ohms.
Two bridged units increase the published output to 300 watts per channel into 8 ohms or 380 watts per channel into 4 ohms.
The bridged arrangement requires twice the shelf space, two mains connections and careful matching with the loudspeakers, but provides considerably greater available power.
Finish Options
The Audiolab 9000P is available in:
Its casework coordinates with the Audiolab 9000Q, 9000A, 9000N and 9000CDT.
Key Features
- Dedicated stereo power amplifier
- Discrete Class AB output stage
- Audiolab Complementary Feedback topology
- 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms
- 160 watts per channel into 4 ohms
- 300 watts bridged into 8 ohms
- 380 watts bridged into 4 ohms
- 15-amp maximum output current
- 320VA toroidal transformer
- Four 15,000µF reservoir capacitors
- 60,000µF total reservoir capacity
- Stereo and bridged mono operation
- Passive bi-amplification potential with two units
- One stereo balanced XLR input
- One stereo unbalanced RCA input
- Rear XLR and Line input selector
- 23dB gain through XLR
- 29dB gain through RCA
- One stereo pair of speaker outputs
- 12V trigger input
- Output short-circuit protection
- High-temperature protection
- Automatic standby
- Less than 0.5-watt standby consumption
- 9.2kg net weight
- Black or Silver finish
- Three-year extended warranty when registered within 90 days
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a power amplifier?
A power amplifier receives a volume-controlled analogue signal from a preamplifier and provides the current and voltage needed to drive passive loudspeakers.
Does the 9000P have volume control?
No. Listening volume must be controlled by the connected preamplifier, DAC, streamer or integrated amplifier.
Does it include source selection?
No conventional source selection is provided. The rear switch chooses between the RCA and XLR input types.
How powerful is it in stereo mode?
It delivers 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 160 watts per channel into 4 ohms.
What is its maximum output current?
Audiolab specifies a maximum output current of 15 amps.
What type of amplification does it use?
It uses a discrete Class AB output stage with Audiolab’s Complementary Feedback topology.
Can it operate as a monoblock?
Yes. Bridge mode combines its internal channels to power one loudspeaker.
How powerful is it in bridge mode?
Audiolab specifies 300 watts into 8 ohms and 380 watts into 4 ohms.
How many amplifiers are required for bridged stereo?
Two. One bridged 9000P powers the left loudspeaker and the other powers the right.
Which input is used in bridge mode?
The left channel of the selected RCA or XLR input is used.
Which speaker terminals are used in bridge mode?
Use only the terminals marked by Audiolab for bridged operation and follow the connection diagram in the manual.
Can bridge mode be used with 4-ohm speakers?
Audiolab publishes a 380-watt rating into 4 ohms, but bridge mode places greater demands on the amplifier. Check the speaker’s complete impedance behaviour with Audio T before proceeding.
Can two 9000P amplifiers be used for bi-amplification?
Yes, with compatible bi-wireable speakers and a preamplifier providing the necessary outputs. Both amplifiers remain in stereo mode.
Should bridge mode be selected for bi-amplification?
No. The Audiolab bi-amplification diagram uses both 9000P amplifiers in stereo mode.
Does it have balanced inputs?
Yes. One stereo pair of balanced XLR inputs is provided.
Does it have RCA inputs?
Yes. One stereo pair of unbalanced RCA inputs is included.
Can the XLR and RCA inputs be used simultaneously?
They can remain physically connected, but the rear selector activates only one input type at a time. Normal source selection should be completed by the preamplifier.
What is the RCA input sensitivity?
The RCA input requires 1Vrms for rated output and has a fixed gain of 29dB.
What is the XLR input sensitivity?
The balanced input requires 2Vrms for rated output and has a fixed gain of 23dB.
Can it connect directly to the Audiolab 9000Q?
Yes. The 9000Q provides both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA preamplifier outputs.
Can it connect to the Audiolab 9000A?
Yes. The 9000A’s variable preamplifier output can feed the RCA input of the 9000P.
Can a streamer connect directly?
Only where the streamer provides a safe and reliable variable analogue output. Confirm that variable mode is active and begin at a low volume.
Can a fixed-output CD player connect directly?
No. A preamplifier or another suitable volume-control stage must be placed between the source and power amplifier.
Does it have digital inputs?
No. There are no optical, coaxial, USB, HDMI or network audio inputs.
Does it contain a DAC?
No. Digital sources require a separate DAC or a digitally equipped preamplifier such as the Audiolab 9000Q.
Does it have a phono stage?
No. A turntable requires a suitable phono stage and volume-controlled preamplifier.
Does it have a headphone output?
No. Headphones must connect to the preamplifier, DAC or a separate headphone amplifier.
Does it have a subwoofer output?
No. A powered subwoofer should connect to a suitable output on the preamplifier or through another compatible connection method.
Does it have a 12V trigger?
Yes. It includes one 12V trigger input for compatible system control.
Does it have a trigger output?
No. The 9000P receives a trigger signal but does not pass one to another component.
Is a trigger cable included?
No. A suitable 3.5mm-to-3.5mm trigger cable is required separately.
Does it include automatic standby?
Yes. It can be set to enter standby after 20 minutes, one hour or never.
How is automatic standby configured?
Hold the front standby button for five seconds and use the LED flash pattern to select the required setting.
Does it have protection circuitry?
Yes. It includes protection against gross overload, output short circuits and excessive temperature.
What should I do if the power LED flashes?
Switch the system off and check the speaker wiring, loudspeaker load and ventilation before attempting to restore operation.
Does it require ventilation?
Yes. Install it in an open position and keep all ventilation openings clear, particularly when using two amplifiers or driving demanding speakers.
Is a remote control included?
No. Everyday control is provided by the connected preamplifier, with standby automation available through the trigger input.
What are its dimensions?
It measures 444mm wide, 90mm high and 327mm deep.
How much does it weigh?
The net weight is 9.2kg.
Which finishes are available?
The Audiolab 9000P is available in Black and Silver.
What warranty is included?
Audiolab offers an extended three-year warranty when the product is registered online within 90 days of purchase. Without registration, cover is one year or the applicable statutory period, whichever is longer.
Related Audiolab Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Audiolab 9000 Series demonstrations
- Power amplifier and loudspeaker matching advice
- Stereo, bridged mono and bi-amplification guidance
- Balanced XLR and RCA connection advice
- Help choosing a suitable preamplifier
- Speaker-cable and termination guidance
- 12V trigger and system-control assistance
- Equipment-rack and ventilation advice
- Warranty-registration support
- Ongoing after-sales assistance
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss adding the Audiolab 9000P to your Hi-Fi system.