Audio T Verdict
The Advance Paris A8 APEX brings the hybrid valve and transistor design of the larger APEX amplifiers into a slimmer and more accessible package.
Its ECC81/12AT7 valve preamplifier stage is partnered with 76W-per-channel Class A/B amplification, while an ESS9018 DAC, MM phono stage, HDMI eARC and generous analogue connectivity allow it to accommodate a complete modern Hi-Fi system.
With distinctive white VU meters, useful system-expansion options and enough power for a wide range of passive loudspeakers, the A8 APEX delivers much of the APEX experience without requiring the size or output of the A10 and A12 models.
Advance Paris A8 APEX Integrated Amplifier
The Advance Paris A8 APEX is a hybrid stereo integrated amplifier developed as the compact entry point to the APEX range.
Two ECC81/12AT7 valves operate within its preamplifier stage, while a solid-state Class A/B power-amplifier section drives the loudspeakers.
The amplifier combines traditional analogue Hi-Fi connections with an ESS9018 DAC, USB computer audio, HDMI eARC, a moving-magnet phono stage and system-expansion connections including PRE-OUT and AMP-IN.
30th Edition APEX Design
The A8 APEX was introduced as part of Advance Paris’s 30th-anniversary APEX range.
Its black finish, white front-panel VU meters and visible valves distinguish it from the company’s earlier Classic Line amplifiers.
The design combines traditional amplifier styling with contemporary digital and television connectivity.
Hybrid Valve and Transistor Amplification
The A8 APEX uses valves and transistors for different stages of the amplification process.
Two ECC81/12AT7 valves process the selected source within the preamplifier stage. The resulting signal is then passed to the Class A/B transistor power-amplifier section.
This arrangement combines valve preamplification with the power delivery and loudspeaker control of a modern solid-state output stage.
76W Per Channel
The A8 APEX delivers 76W RMS per channel into an 8-ohm load, measured at 1kHz with both channels operating.
Power increases to 110W RMS per channel into 4 ohms, giving the amplifier enough output for a wide range of compatible standmount and floorstanding loudspeakers.
Its full-bandwidth ratings are 70W per channel into 8 ohms and 100W per channel into 4 ohms between 20Hz and 20kHz at less than 0.07% THD+N.
Successful system matching will still depend on loudspeaker sensitivity, impedance behaviour, room size, listening distance and preferred volume.
Match the Amplifier to Your Loudspeakers
The A8 APEX has plenty of power for many domestic systems, but the wattage figure alone cannot determine whether an amplifier and speaker will work well together.
An Audio T demonstration can confirm whether it provides the control, tonal balance and listening level required by your chosen loudspeakers.
Class A/B with High-Bias Mode
The main output stage operates in Class A/B and includes a selectable High-Bias function.
Advance Paris states that High-Bias doubles the Class A bias, allowing the amplifier to remain in Class A operation over a greater initial portion of its output before transitioning into Class A/B.
High-Bias operation increases heat generation, so the amplifier must be installed with suitable ventilation around its top and sides.
240VA Toroidal Transformer
A 240VA toroidal transformer supplies the A8 APEX’s internal circuits.
Toroidal transformers are widely used in high-quality Hi-Fi amplifiers for their compact shape, power-delivery capability and relatively low external magnetic field.
The amplifier must be configured for the correct local mains voltage before use.
ESS9018 Digital-to-Analogue Converter
An ESS9018 DAC handles signals received through the amplifier’s optical, coaxial, USB-B and HDMI eARC connections.
This allows compatible digital sources to connect directly to the A8 APEX without requiring a separate external DAC.
Potential sources include CD transports, network streamers, computers, televisions and other equipment fitted with a compatible digital output.
Seven RCA Line Inputs
The A8 APEX provides seven stereo RCA line-level inputs for conventional analogue source equipment.
These can be used with compatible products such as:
- CD and SACD players
- Network streamers
- External DACs
- Radio tuners
- Cassette decks
- Separate phono stages
- Other line-level analogue sources
Each source should provide a standard line-level analogue output.
Moving-Magnet Phono Stage
The A8 APEX includes a built-in RIAA phono stage for compatible moving-magnet cartridges.
A suitable turntable can therefore connect directly without requiring a separate external MM phono stage.
A grounding terminal is provided for turntables that require a separate earth connection.
Check Your Cartridge Type
The built-in phono stage is designed for compatible moving-magnet cartridges.
A low-output moving-coil cartridge will normally require a suitable external phono stage or step-up device connected to one of the normal line inputs.
Optical Digital Input
One optical Toslink input accepts compatible stereo PCM signals up to 24-bit/192kHz.
Optical connections are commonly found on televisions, CD players, network streamers and games consoles.
Where a television or video source is connected, its digital output may need to be changed from a multichannel surround format to stereo PCM.
Two Coaxial Digital Inputs
Two coaxial S/PDIF inputs accept compatible stereo PCM signals up to 24-bit/192kHz.
These can be used with CD transports, network players, music servers and other digital sources fitted with a suitable coaxial output.
Use a purpose-designed 75-ohm coaxial digital cable rather than one half of a conventional stereo analogue RCA interconnect pair.
USB-B Computer Audio Input
The USB-B audio input allows a compatible Windows computer or Mac to use the A8 APEX as an external sound device.
It supports PCM audio up to 24-bit/192kHz together with DSD64 and DSD128 through compatible playback software and computer hardware.
Driver requirements should be checked against the current Advance Paris instructions and the operating system being used.
HDMI eARC for Television Sound
An HDMI eARC connection allows the A8 APEX to receive stereo PCM audio from a compatible television.
HDMI CEC provides compatible power and volume synchronisation. Switching on the television can also activate the amplifier, while the television remote can control the listening level.
This provides a convenient way to reproduce television programmes, films and connected video sources through the main stereo loudspeakers.
Check the Television Settings
Connect the amplifier to the television socket specifically labelled eARC or ARC, then enable HDMI CEC and eARC within the television menu.
If no sound is heard, change the television’s digital-audio output from bitstream or multichannel audio to stereo PCM.
Stereo PRE-OUT
A variable stereo RCA PRE-OUT allows the A8 APEX to feed a compatible external power amplifier.
This provides a route for future system expansion while allowing the A8 APEX to continue providing source selection, valve preamplification and volume control.
The PRE-OUT may also be useful with compatible active equipment that requires a variable line-level signal.
AMP-IN Power-Amplifier Input
The stereo RCA AMP-IN connection provides direct access to the A8 APEX’s power-amplifier section.
It can be used with a compatible external preamplifier or an AV receiver fitted with front-left and front-right preamplifier outputs.
When AMP-IN is in use, volume must be controlled by the connected preamplifier or AV processor.
Home Cinema Integration
The AMP-IN connection allows the A8 APEX to power the main front-left and front-right loudspeakers in a compatible home cinema system.
This allows the same speakers to be used for dedicated stereo listening and multichannel film sound.
Channel levels must be calibrated carefully through the connected AV receiver or processor.
Fixed Record Output
A fixed-level stereo REC-OUT connection can feed a compatible recording device.
Changing the main amplifier volume does not normally alter the signal supplied through REC-OUT.
The fixed output must not be connected directly to a power amplifier because it does not provide variable volume control.
Subwoofer Output
One mono RCA subwoofer output allows a compatible active subwoofer to be added to the system.
The subwoofer’s crossover frequency, phase, gain and positioning should be adjusted using its own controls and careful listening within the room.
A properly integrated subwoofer can extend low-frequency performance without drawing attention to its physical position.
Speaker Connections
The rear-panel binding posts connect one pair of compatible passive loudspeakers.
The terminals accept properly prepared bare cable, suitable spade connectors and compatible 4mm banana plugs.
Switch the amplifier off before connecting or disconnecting speaker cables.
Maintaining Correct Speaker Polarity
Connect the amplifier’s positive terminal to the corresponding positive loudspeaker terminal and negative to negative.
Repeat the same arrangement for the other channel. Reversing the polarity of one loudspeaker can weaken central imaging and reduce bass performance.
Ensure that no exposed conductor strands can bridge between adjacent terminals.
Optional A-BTC Bluetooth Module
Bluetooth playback requires the separately available Advance Paris A-BTC module.
Once installed, the module allows compatible smartphones, tablets and computers to send music wirelessly to the amplifier.
The standard A8 APEX does not include built-in Bluetooth without the optional module.
6.35mm Headphone Output
A front-panel 6.35mm headphone socket allows compatible wired headphones to connect directly to the amplifier.
Reduce the volume before inserting or removing headphones, then begin listening at a low level.
An adapter may be required for headphones fitted with a 3.5mm plug.
12V Trigger Output
A 12V trigger output allows a compatible external product to switch on and off with the A8 APEX.
This can be useful when the PRE-OUT is connected to an additional power amplifier or another compatible component.
The trigger connection carries control voltage rather than audio and requires a suitable trigger cable.
Tone, Balance and Loudness Settings
The amplifier provides bass, treble, stereo balance and loudness adjustment.
These settings can help compensate for room acoustics, loudspeaker placement, recording balance or low-volume listening.
A bypass setting can remove the tone-control circuits from the signal path when adjustment is not required.
Adjustable Automatic Standby
The automatic standby timer can be adjusted between five and 60 minutes.
This allows the amplifier to reduce energy use after a selected period without operation.
The setting should be chosen carefully if the amplifier is frequently used at very low volume or with recordings containing extended silent passages.
USB Firmware Updates
A dedicated UPDATE port allows compatible firmware to be installed from a USB memory device.
Only official Advance Paris update files intended specifically for the A8 APEX should be used.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and do not interrupt the power supply while an update is being installed.
REM-19 Remote Control
The supplied REM-19 infrared remote provides access to volume, source selection and amplifier settings.
Advance Paris also specifies the remote as compatible with the other APEX amplifiers and the matching ACD APEX CD player.
No Balanced XLR Inputs
The A8 APEX uses unbalanced RCA connections for its analogue source inputs.
It does not provide the balanced analogue XLR inputs fitted to the larger A10 APEX and A12 APEX.
A source fitted only with XLR outputs will require a suitable alternative connection or compatible interface.
No Built-In Network Streamer
The A8 APEX does not contain built-in Wi-Fi, Ethernet or a complete network-streaming platform.
A separate network player can be connected through RCA, optical, coaxial or USB, depending on the outputs provided by the streamer.
The optional A-BTC module adds Bluetooth reception but does not provide Wi-Fi network streaming.
A8, A10 or A12 APEX?
The A8 APEX is the most compact and affordable integrated amplifier in the APEX range.
The A10 APEX increases power to 130W per channel into 8 ohms and adds balanced XLR input connectivity, additional digital inputs and two subwoofer outputs.
The A12 APEX increases power to 190W per channel and adds dual-mono construction, MM and MC phono support, an ESS9039 DAC and more extensive balanced and digital connectivity.
The most suitable model will depend on the loudspeakers, room size, source equipment and required connections.
Installation and Ventilation
The A8 APEX measures 430mm wide, 132mm high and 363mm deep, with a net weight of 9.4kg.
It requires a stable, level equipment shelf with enough space behind it for the mains lead, HDMI cable, interconnects and loudspeaker cables.
Keep the ventilation openings clear, particularly when High-Bias mode is in use. Do not install the amplifier inside a sealed cabinet or directly beneath equipment that blocks rising warm air.
Key Features
- Compact hybrid stereo integrated amplifier
- A8 APEX 30th Edition design
- Two ECC81/12AT7 preamplifier valves
- Class A/B transistor power-amplifier section
- Selectable High-Bias mode
- 76W RMS per channel into 8 ohms
- 110W RMS per channel into 4 ohms
- 240VA toroidal transformer
- ESS9018 digital-to-analogue converter
- Seven stereo RCA line inputs
- Built-in moving-magnet phono stage
- Turntable grounding terminal
- One optical digital input
- Two coaxial digital inputs
- Optical and coaxial PCM support up to 24-bit/192kHz
- USB-B computer audio input
- USB PCM support up to 24-bit/192kHz
- USB DSD64 and DSD128 support
- HDMI eARC television connection
- Compatible HDMI CEC power and volume control
- Stereo PRE-OUT
- Stereo AMP-IN
- Fixed-level REC-OUT
- One mono subwoofer output
- Speaker terminals for one pair of loudspeakers
- Bare-wire, spade and banana-plug compatibility
- Optional A-BTC Bluetooth module
- 6.35mm headphone output
- 12V trigger output
- Bass, treble, balance and loudness adjustment
- Adjustable automatic standby
- USB firmware-update port
- White illuminated VU meters
- REM-19 infrared remote control
Frequently Asked Questions
How powerful is the Advance Paris A8 APEX?
It delivers 76W RMS per channel into 8 ohms and 110W RMS per channel into 4 ohms.
Is the A8 APEX a valve amplifier?
It is a hybrid amplifier. Two ECC81/12AT7 valves are used in the preamplifier stage, while transistors provide the main Class A/B power amplification.
What does High-Bias mode do?
It doubles the Class A bias, allowing the output stage to remain in Class A operation over a greater initial portion of its output.
What DAC does it use?
Digital-to-analogue conversion is handled by an ESS9018 DAC.
Does it have a built-in phono stage?
Yes. It includes an RIAA phono stage for compatible moving-magnet cartridges.
Can I use a moving-coil cartridge?
A low-output moving-coil cartridge will normally require a suitable external phono stage or step-up device.
How many analogue line inputs does it have?
It provides seven stereo RCA line-level inputs, plus a separate moving-magnet phono input.
Does it have balanced XLR inputs?
No. The A8 APEX uses RCA analogue inputs. Balanced XLR inputs are available on the larger A10 APEX and A12 APEX.
How many optical and coaxial inputs does it have?
It provides one optical input and two coaxial digital inputs.
Can I connect a computer?
Yes. The USB-B input supports compatible PCM audio up to 24-bit/192kHz together with DSD64 and DSD128.
Can it connect directly to a television?
Yes. It includes HDMI eARC with compatible CEC power and volume control.
Can it be used in a home cinema system?
Yes. Its AMP-IN connection allows a compatible AV receiver or processor to use the A8 APEX to power the main front-left and front-right loudspeakers.
Does it have Bluetooth built in?
No. Bluetooth requires the separately available Advance Paris A-BTC module.
Does it have a built-in music streamer?
No. It does not include Wi-Fi, Ethernet or a complete network-streaming platform.
Can I connect an external power amplifier?
Yes. The variable stereo PRE-OUT can feed a compatible external power amplifier.
How many subwoofers can be connected?
One compatible active subwoofer can be connected through the mono RCA subwoofer output.
Can it power two pairs of loudspeakers?
The A8 APEX provides terminals for one conventional stereo pair of passive loudspeakers.
Which speaker-cable connections are supported?
The binding posts accept properly prepared bare cable, compatible spade connectors and 4mm banana plugs.
Does it have a headphone output?
Yes. A 6.35mm wired headphone socket is provided on the front panel.
What is the correct frequency response?
The full technical specification states 20Hz to 80kHz, within ±1dB under the published measurement conditions.
Is this the 30th Edition?
Yes. The current A8 APEX is officially identified as the A8 APEX 30th Edition, with a black finish and white VU meters.
How much does it weigh?
The published net weight is 9.4kg.
Related Advance Paris Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Independent advice from experienced Hi-Fi specialists
- Amplifier and loudspeaker system matching
- In-store demonstrations at participating branches
- Turntable and moving-magnet cartridge guidance
- Analogue and digital source connection advice
- HDMI eARC television setup support
- Home cinema AMP-IN configuration guidance
- Subwoofer selection and integration advice
- Speaker-cable and interconnect recommendations
- Click and Reserve from participating stores
- Nationwide UK delivery on eligible products
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss matching the Advance Paris A8 APEX with your sources, television and loudspeakers.