In this AudioLab 9000N Network Player review, we're diving deep into what might be the most sophisticated streaming solution to grace the audiophile market this year. Born from a collaboration between AudioLab and Lumin, this network player represents the pinnacle of digital audio reproduction, offering a level of refinement that's truly exceptional.
Design and Build Quality
The 9000N exemplifies AudioLab's commitment to sophisticated industrial design. The robust chassis, measuring 444 x 89 x 333mm, houses premium components within a sleek, minimalist framework. The centrepiece is an impressive 4.3-inch IPS colour display that brings album artwork to life with stunning clarity.
Technical Excellence
At the heart of the 9000N lies the acclaimed ES9038PRO Sabre DAC, accompanied by a powerful Quad ARM Cortex-A53 core processor running at 1.8GHz. This combination delivers:
- Full MQA decoding capabilities
- Support for high-resolution audio up to 768kHz/32-bit
- Native DSD playback up to DSD512
- Remarkably low distortion levels (<0.001% at 1kHz)
Connectivity and Versatility
The connectivity options are comprehensive:
- Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs
- Digital outputs (optical and coaxial)
- Ethernet port for stable networking
- USB Type-B for computer connection
- 12V trigger inputs/outputs
Streaming Capabilities
The 9000N is a streaming powerhouse, offering:
- Roon Ready certification
- Native support for Tidal, Qobuz, and Spotify Connect
- MQA decoding for high-resolution streaming
- UPnP/DLNA compatibility
- Extensive file format support
User Experience
The dedicated AudioLab app provides an intuitive interface for:
- Playlist management
- High-resolution artwork display
- Intelligent search functionality
- Multiple streaming service integration
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality through ES9038PRO DAC
- Comprehensive streaming service support
- Full MQA decoding
- Stunning 4.3-inch display
- Robust build quality
- Extensive file format compatibility
- Balanced and unbalanced outputs
- Intuitive app control
- Developed with Lumin expertise
Cons
- Premium price point
- Requires stable network for optimal performance
- App requires iOS 11.0 or Android 4.0 minimum
Who Is This For?
The AudioLab 9000N is perfect for:
- Serious audiophiles seeking reference-quality streaming
- Digital music enthusiasts with high-resolution libraries
- Those wanting a premium all-in-one streaming solution
- Listeners who demand the absolute best in sound quality
The Verdict: Digital Excellence Personified
The AudioLab 9000N Network Player represents a remarkable achievement in digital audio reproduction. It's a device that manages to combine cutting-edge technology with audiophile-grade performance in a package that's both sophisticated and user-friendly.
For those ready to experience this remarkable piece of engineering, our team at The Audio Tailor is always available to discuss how the 9000N can transform your listening experience. Give us a call on 1300 308 711 - we're passionate about helping music lovers find their perfect match.
