Audio T Verdict
The Audiolab 9000Q and 9000P bundle offers the flexibility of a dedicated pre-power amplifier system without requiring separate DAC, phono and headphone components from the outset.
The 9000Q provides extensive analogue and digital source control, balanced connectivity and an ES9038PRO DAC, while the 9000P delivers 100 watts per channel of Class AB power with strong current capability.
It is an excellent step beyond a conventional integrated amplifier and provides a clear upgrade route. A second 9000P can be added later for passive bi-amplification or bridged monoblock operation.
Audiolab 9000Q and 9000P Pre-Power Amplifier Bundle
This bundle combines one Audiolab 9000Q preamplifier with one Audiolab 9000P stereo power amplifier.
The 9000Q manages source selection, digital conversion, volume control, vinyl playback and headphones. The 9000P receives the volume-controlled signal and supplies the power required to drive a pair of passive loudspeakers.
Separating these functions across two full-width components gives each section its own power supply, chassis and internal layout while providing greater system flexibility than the 9000A integrated amplifier.
What Is Included?
- One Audiolab 9000Q preamplifier
- One Audiolab 9000P stereo and bridged power amplifier
- Audiolab system remote handset
- Bluetooth antenna for the 9000Q
- Regional IEC mains cable for each component
- User documentation for both components
System Cables Are Required Separately
The bundle does not include the XLR or RCA interconnect needed between the 9000Q and 9000P.
Speaker cable, source interconnects, digital cables and a 12V trigger cable must also be selected separately where required.
Why Choose a Pre-Power Amplifier?
An integrated amplifier contains its preamplifier and power-amplifier stages within one cabinet.
A pre-power system separates the source-selection and volume-control circuitry from the high-current loudspeaker amplifier. Potential advantages include:
- Separate power supplies for the preamplifier and power amplifier
- Greater freedom when positioning each component
- Reduced interaction between sensitive and high-current circuitry
- The ability to upgrade either component independently
- Support for stereo, bi-amplified and bridged monoblock systems
- More flexible output and system-control arrangements
The improvement achieved will depend on the partnering sources, loudspeakers, room and complete system setup.
Audiolab 9000Q Preamplifier
The 9000Q is the control centre of the bundle.
It provides analogue and digital input switching, volume control, an ESS Sabre DAC, Moving Magnet phono stage, headphone amplifier, Bluetooth receiver and three isolated variable preamplifier outputs.
A 4.3-inch colour display provides access to input settings, digital filters, tone controls, balance, power-on volume limits and other system functions.
Analogue Inputs
The 9000Q provides:
- Three stereo RCA line inputs
- One stereo balanced XLR input
- One dedicated Moving Magnet phono input
The line inputs can accommodate suitable CD players, streamers, tuners, cassette decks, external DACs and phono stages.
Each analogue input can be adjusted from -6dB to +6dB, helping create a more consistent volume when switching between sources with different output levels.
Fully Balanced XLR Direct Path
The balanced XLR input can operate in Normal or Direct mode.
XLR Direct provides a fully balanced path from the input to the balanced preamplifier output, passing through the four-channel analogue volume control while bypassing the tone-control section.
This is the most direct connection for a compatible balanced source such as the Audiolab 9000N network player.
AUX 3 AV Bypass
AUX 3 can operate as a normal line input or as an AV Bypass connection.
AV Bypass fixes the 9000Q’s gain at 0dB, allowing a compatible home cinema processor or AV amplifier to control the front-channel volume.
This allows the 9000P and main stereo loudspeakers to serve both a dedicated Hi-Fi system and the front channels of a home cinema setup.
Configure AV Bypass Carefully
The 9000Q’s volume control is bypassed in this mode.
Only connect a properly configured, volume-controlled preamplifier output from an AV product. A fixed-level source could produce an unexpectedly high playback level.
Bass and Treble Controls
The 9000Q includes per-input bass and treble adjustment.
Each control offers a range from -6dB to +6dB in 2dB steps, allowing subtle compensation for room acoustics, loudspeaker balance, individual recordings or personal preference.
EQ Bypass removes the tone-control section from the signal path when no adjustment is required.
Enhanced Moving Magnet Phono Stage
The dedicated phono input uses a single-stage Class A circuit designed for Moving Magnet cartridges and other cartridges with a compatible output.
A separate ground terminal is provided for turntables with an earth lead.
A conventional low-output Moving Coil cartridge requires an appropriate external phono stage or step-up solution connected to a line input.
ESS Sabre ES9038PRO DAC
The 9000Q uses the flagship ESS Sabre ES9038PRO digital-to-analogue converter.
Digital connections include:
- Two coaxial S/PDIF inputs
- Two optical S/PDIF inputs
- One USB Type B computer-audio input
- Bluetooth 5.1
The coaxial and optical inputs accept PCM sampling frequencies up to 192kHz. PC USB supports PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and native DSD up to DSD512.
Roon Tested USB Audio
The 9000Q is Roon Tested for compatible computer USB operation.
It does not contain Ethernet, Wi-Fi or a Roon Ready network-streaming platform. A computer or separate network player is still required to supply the music signal.
Five Selectable Digital Filters
The DAC provides five reconstruction filters:
- Linear Phase Fast Roll-Off
- Linear Phase Slow Roll-Off
- Minimum Phase Fast Roll-Off
- Minimum Phase Slow Roll-Off
- Hybrid Fast Roll-Off
Linear Phase Slow Roll-Off is selected as the factory default.
Compatible digital signals can also be upsampled to 352.8kHz or 384kHz.
Bluetooth 5.1
Bluetooth provides convenient wireless playback from compatible phones, tablets and computers.
Published codec support includes aptX, aptX HD and LDAC.
Bluetooth is not a substitute for a complete network-streaming platform. Connect a separate music streamer for internet services, network libraries, AirPlay or Roon Ready operation.
Three Variable Preamplifier Outputs
The 9000Q provides:
- Two stereo RCA preamplifier outputs
- One stereo balanced XLR preamplifier output
The three outputs are isolated and can be used simultaneously without reducing the published performance.
This allows the 9000Q to feed the 9000P alongside a powered subwoofer, additional amplifier or compatible signal processor.
Fixed AUX Output
A separate fixed-level RCA output can feed a recorder, secondary system, AV controller or compatible processor.
It does not follow the 9000Q volume control and must not be connected directly to the 9000P or active loudspeakers without another suitable means of controlling volume.
Dedicated Headphone Amplifier
The front-panel 6.3mm headphone socket is driven by a dedicated current-feedback circuit.
Audiolab specifies compatibility with headphone impedances from 20 to 600 ohms.
Connecting headphones deactivates the variable RCA and XLR preamplifier outputs, preventing the 9000P and loudspeakers from continuing to play.
Audiolab 9000P Power Amplifier
The 9000P is a discrete Class AB power amplifier designed specifically to partner the 9000Q.
It delivers 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 160 watts per channel into 4 ohms, with a maximum published output current of 15 amps.
One 9000P drives a conventional pair of passive stereo loudspeakers. Its bridged mode also allows it to become a high-power mono amplifier when a second 9000P is added.
Complementary Feedback Technology
The amplifier uses Audiolab’s Complementary Feedback topology.
This circuit is designed to maintain linearity and thermal stability by reducing the effect that output-transistor temperature has on the amplifier’s idle current.
The result is intended to provide consistent operation as the amplifier reaches its normal working temperature.
320VA Toroidal Transformer
A custom-specified 320VA toroidal transformer supplies the 9000P’s Class AB output stage.
Four 15,000µF reservoir capacitors provide 60,000µF of total power-supply storage.
This supports short musical peaks and helps the amplifier maintain control when the connected loudspeakers present a demanding load.
Stereo Power
In normal stereo mode, the 9000P delivers:
- 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms
- 160 watts per channel into 4 ohms
The rear Stereo/Bridge selector must be in the Stereo position when one 9000P is driving both loudspeakers.
The standard bundle contains one 9000P and is therefore supplied as a stereo pre-power amplifier system.
Balanced or RCA Connection
The 9000P provides both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs.
A rear selector determines which input is active. Do not connect both input types with the expectation that the amplifier will mix or switch between two sources.
The published gain is 23dB through XLR and 29dB through RCA, with corresponding input sensitivities of 2V and 1V.
Recommended Bundle Connection
Use the balanced XLR connection where practical, keeping the left and right channels correctly matched.
RCA remains an excellent alternative where an existing cable installation or wider system requires an unbalanced connection.
Bridged Monoblock Expansion
A second Audiolab 9000P can be added so that each power amplifier drives one loudspeaker in bridged mono mode.
Audiolab specifies:
- 300 watts into 8 ohms in bridged mode
- 380 watts into 4 ohms in bridged mode
Two 9000P amplifiers are required, one for the left channel and one for the right.
The rear Stereo/Bridge selectors, input connections and loudspeaker terminals must all be configured exactly as shown in the Audiolab manual.
This Bundle Contains One 9000P
The standard 9000Q and 9000P bundle does not provide bridged stereo operation on its own.
A second separately purchased 9000P is required before the system can be configured as a pair of monoblocks.
Passive Bi-Amplification
Two 9000P amplifiers can also remain in stereo mode and be used for passive bi-amplification.
This arrangement is only suitable where the loudspeakers provide separate input terminals and their manufacturer supports passive bi-amplification.
The loudspeaker terminal links must be removed before connecting separate amplifier channels to the high-frequency and low-frequency sections.
Speaker Matching
The 9000P’s 100-watt output and 15-amp current capability allow it to partner a wide selection of substantial standmount and floorstanding loudspeakers.
Successful matching depends on:
- Speaker sensitivity
- Nominal and minimum impedance
- Room size
- Listening distance
- Preferred playback volume
- Low-frequency demands
- The electrical behaviour of the loudspeaker crossover
A demonstration is strongly recommended before purchasing a complete system at this level.
Speaker Connections
One pair of stereo loudspeaker terminals is provided on the 9000P.
Maintain correct polarity by connecting positive to positive and negative to negative at both the amplifier and loudspeakers.
Switch the complete system off before changing speaker connections, input mode or Stereo/Bridge configuration.
Check that no loose conductor strands can create a short circuit between adjacent terminals.
12V Trigger Control
The 9000Q provides two 12V trigger outputs, while the 9000P provides one trigger input.
A suitable 3.5mm trigger cable allows the preamplifier to bring the power amplifier into and out of standby with the rest of the system.
The second 9000Q trigger output can control another 9000P or a compatible source component.
Power-On Sequence
Switch source components and the 9000Q on before the 9000P.
When shutting the system down, switch the 9000P off before the preamplifier and sources.
The preamplifier should therefore be first on and last off, reducing the chance of start-up or shutdown noises reaching the loudspeakers.
Installation and Ventilation
Both components require strong, level and stable support.
The 9000P generates more heat than the 9000Q and should be given generous ventilation above and around its casework.
Do not place the 9000Q directly on top of the power amplifier or enclose either component within furniture that prevents heat escaping.
Allow sufficient rear clearance for XLR or RCA interconnects, speaker cables, source connections, trigger leads and both mains cables.
9000Q and 9000P or 9000A?
The 9000A combines preamplifier, DAC and stereo power amplifier functions within one cabinet.
The 9000Q and 9000P bundle separates these stages and adds several facilities not provided by the integrated amplifier, including:
- Enhanced Class A Moving Magnet phono stage
- Per-input bass and treble controls
- Fully balanced XLR Direct signal path
- AUX 3 AV Bypass
- Three isolated variable preamplifier outputs
- Fixed AUX output
- Bridged monoblock upgrade route
The 9000A requires less space and fewer cables, while the pre-power bundle provides greater configuration and upgrade flexibility.
Network Streaming
The 9000Q includes Bluetooth but does not contain Wi-Fi, Ethernet or an integrated network-streaming platform.
The Audiolab 9000N Network Music Player is the natural streaming partner and can connect through balanced XLR, RCA or digital S/PDIF.
Finish Options
The Audiolab 9000Q and 9000P are available in:
Matching finishes provide a consistent two-box appearance across the system.
Key Features
- Bundle containing one Audiolab 9000Q and one Audiolab 9000P
- Dedicated two-box pre-power amplifier system
- 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms
- 160 watts per channel into 4 ohms
- 15-amp maximum output current
- Optional bridged operation with a second 9000P
- 300 watts into 8 ohms in bridged mono mode
- 380 watts into 4 ohms in bridged mono mode
- Complementary Feedback Class AB output stage
- 320VA toroidal power-amplifier transformer
- 60,000µF power-amplifier reservoir capacity
- Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA system connections
- ESS Sabre ES9038PRO DAC
- Three RCA line inputs
- One balanced XLR source input
- Enhanced Class A Moving Magnet phono stage
- Two coaxial and two optical digital inputs
- PC USB up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD512
- Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX, aptX HD and LDAC
- Roon Tested
- Five selectable digital filters
- Digital upsampling
- Per-input bass and treble controls
- XLR Direct balanced signal path
- AUX 3 AV Bypass
- Two RCA and one XLR variable preamplifier outputs
- Fixed RCA AUX output
- Dedicated headphone amplifier
- 4.3-inch colour display
- Digital and analogue-style VU meters
- Two 9000Q trigger outputs and one 9000P trigger input
- System remote control included
- Black or Silver finish
- Three-year extended warranty when registered within 90 days
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in this bundle?
It contains one Audiolab 9000Q preamplifier and one Audiolab 9000P stereo power amplifier.
Can the system drive passive loudspeakers?
Yes. The 9000P supplies the power required by a conventional pair of passive stereo loudspeakers.
How powerful is the 9000P?
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 current of 15 amps.
Does the bundle include two 9000P amplifiers?
No. It contains one 9000P for normal stereo operation.
Can the system be upgraded to monoblocks?
Yes. Add a second 9000P and configure one amplifier for each loudspeaker in bridged mono mode.
What power is available in bridged mode?
Each bridged 9000P is rated at 300 watts into 8 ohms and 380 watts into 4 ohms.
Can the bundle be used for passive bi-amplification?
A second 9000P is required. The loudspeakers must provide separate terminals and support passive bi-amplification.
Should I use XLR or RCA between the components?
Either is suitable. XLR provides the balanced connection, while RCA is available for conventional unbalanced installation.
Are XLR or RCA cables included?
No. The preamplifier-to-power-amplifier interconnect must be purchased separately.
Does the 9000Q contain a DAC?
Yes. It uses the flagship ESS Sabre ES9038PRO DAC.
Does it support computer USB audio?
Yes. PC USB supports PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD up to DSD512.
Is it Roon Ready?
No. The 9000Q is Roon Tested for computer USB use but does not contain a networked Roon Ready endpoint.
Does it provide network streaming?
No. Connect a separate streamer such as the Audiolab 9000N.
Does it include Bluetooth?
Yes. Bluetooth 5.1 supports aptX, aptX HD and LDAC.
Does it have a phono stage?
Yes. The 9000Q includes a dedicated Moving Magnet phono input.
Can a low-output Moving Coil cartridge connect directly?
No. Use an appropriate external Moving Coil phono stage or step-up solution.
Does it provide tone controls?
Yes. Bass and treble can each be adjusted from -6dB to +6dB or bypassed.
What is XLR Direct?
It provides a fully balanced signal path from the XLR source input to the balanced output while bypassing the tone-control section.
What is AV Bypass?
It allows a compatible home cinema processor to control the front-channel level through AUX 3.
Does the 9000Q have a headphone output?
Yes. A dedicated current-feedback headphone amplifier feeds the front-panel 6.3mm socket.
What happens when headphones are connected?
The variable RCA and XLR preamplifier outputs are deactivated, muting the 9000P and loudspeakers.
Can a powered subwoofer be connected?
Yes. One of the additional variable outputs can feed a compatible line-level subwoofer.
Does it have 12V trigger control?
Yes. A trigger cable can allow the 9000Q to control the standby state of the 9000P.
Is a trigger cable included?
No. A suitable 3.5mm trigger cable is required separately.
Does the 9000P require ventilation?
Yes. Place it on a strong open shelf and leave generous space around its ventilation openings.
What are the component dimensions?
The 9000Q measures 444 × 90 × 328mm and the 9000P measures 444 × 90 × 327mm in width, height and depth order.
How much do the components weigh?
The 9000Q weighs 6.2kg and the 9000P weighs 9.2kg.
Which finishes are available?
Both components are available in Black and Silver.
What warranty is included?
Each eligible component receives Audiolab’s extended three-year warranty when registered within 90 days of purchase.
Related Audiolab Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Audiolab 9000 Series demonstrations
- Pre-power and integrated-amplifier comparisons
- Speaker and amplifier matching advice
- Balanced XLR and RCA connection guidance
- Stereo, bi-amplified and monoblock system planning
- Turntable and Moving Magnet cartridge setup
- Computer USB audio and driver support
- AV Bypass and home cinema integration assistance
- Powered subwoofer setup
- 12V trigger configuration
- Warranty-registration assistance
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss matching the Audiolab 9000Q and 9000P bundle with your loudspeakers and sources.