The network player category has continued to grow with many options from Cambridge Audio, WiiM, HiFi Rose, NAD, Bluesound, Naim, Rotel, Denon, and others.
A network player (aka network streamer or network music player) enables audio streaming over a network. It typically connects to your home network via Ethernet or Wi-Fi, or a computer or network-attached storage (NAS) drive. This allows users to stream audio for online streaming services and mobile devices. The 9000N is Audiolab’s latest entry into the network player category.
9000N Flagship
Audiolab’s flagship audio component range, the 9000 Series, has added the 9000N network streamer to its ranks. The 9000N joins the 9000A integrated amplifier and 9000CDT CD transport.
The 9000N Series builds on Audiolab’s entry and mid-level 6000 and 7000 ranges and also consists of an amp, CD player, and streaming components. But while the 6000N Play and 7000N Play utilize the Play-Fi platform, the 9000N forgoes DTS Play-Fi for a higher-end platform.
Core Features
- Platform: High-end Linux-based platform built for operational and sonic excellence
- Processor: Quad Arm Cortex-A53 core, 1.8GHz per Core
- DAC: ESS Sabre ES9038PRO 32-bit with proprietary power supply and post-DAC circuitry
- Streaming Support: Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, Qobuz, TuneIn Radio, AirPlay 2, Roon Ready,
- Status Display: 4.3in IPS LCD, full color with album art support
- Dimensions (WHD): 444 x 89 x 333mm (17.48 x 3.5 x 13.1 inches)
- Weight: 6.2kg (13.11 oz)
User Interface Features (in conjunction with Audiolab 9000N iOS/Android App):
- Tidal MQA icons to easily identify high-res music
- Qobuz high-res icons to identify high-res music
- Volume control
- High-resolution album artwork display
- Artwork caching
- Intelligent search functionality
- Multiple Playlist Complications & functionality
- Multiple tag handling
- Composer tag support
- Album-grouping in playlist
- Automatic internet links to artists/albums/songs
- Saving and restoring playlists (including Tidal and Qobuz)
Wireless Connectivity: Wi-Fi
Wired Connectivity (Inputs)
- 1 x Network Streaming (UPnP/DLNA)
- 1 x PC USB (USB Type-B)
- 1 x Ethernet 10/100 / 1000 Base-T Ethernet
- 1 x 12V Trigger
Wired Connectivity (Outputs)
- 1 x RCA (pair)
- 1 x XLR (pair)
- 1 x Optical
- 1 x Coaxial
- 1 x 12V Trigger (Link)
Supported File Formats
- DSD Lossless: DSF (DSD), DIFF (DSD), DoP (DSD)
- PCM Lossless: FLAC, Apple Lossless (ALAC), WAV, AIFF
- Compressed (lossy) Audio: MP3, MQA
Availability and Pricing
The Audiolab 9000N network streamer is available in a choice of black or silver finish, at an RRP of £2,499 (includes VAT).
Outside the UK, the 9000N’s suggested retail price is $3,499 (USA), $5,499 (Australia), and €2,799 (Europe).
Check Authorized Global Distributors and UK Dealers for demos and purchase details in your area.
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ORT
October 12, 2023 at 2:02 pm
Whenever I see “MQA” on a product I immediately hear Heather O’Rourke say…”They’re here”.
The quextion what needs answerin’ be…”WTF” as in, Why The Fuque are “they” still here. “Walking Dead”? Indeed. And even stoopider than that tripe.
ORT