

Audiolab 9000Q Preamplifier Review: Elevating Your HiFi Experience
If you’re searching for an audiophile-grade front-end that effortlessly bridges multiple sources and extracts every ounce of detail from your music, our Audiolab 9000Q Preamplifier Review reveals why this flagship preamp from AudioLab stands head and shoulders above the competition. Combining the award-winning DNA of the 9000 series with cutting-edge DAC technology and intuitive tone controls, the 9000Q redefines what you can expect from a standalone preamplifier.
Design and Craftsmanship
Designed by Jan Ertner and built to the same lofty standards as the rest of the 9000 series, the 9000Q sports an impeccably finished chassis available in black or silver. Its low-profile 90 mm height and 4.3” colour TFT display provide a refined aesthetic while the solid aluminium front panel houses dual rotary controls and a precision remote. Under the hood, a custom-specified transformer ensures ample current delivery when demanded, delivering detail and authority across the entire audio spectrum.
Digital Mastery and Phono Excellence
At its core is the ES9038PRO eight-channel HyperStream II DAC, enhanced with Audiolab’s proprietary Time Domain Jitter Eliminator technology for ultra-low distortion (<0.001% THD) and a staggering dynamic range. Whether you’re streaming high-resolution PCM up to 768 kHz or DSD512 via USB, or decoding MQA on Coax/Optical inputs, every nuance of your recordings is laid bare. On the analogue side, the dedicated Class-A MM phono stage, with its single-stage topology, rivals standalone phono preamps with its refinement and noise floor.
Connectivity and Tone Control
The 9000Q accommodates 3 × analogue AUX inputs, balanced XLR, a dedicated phono input, 2 × coaxial and 2 × optical S/PDIF, Bluetooth 5.1 (aptX, aptX HD, LDAC) and a USB-B port. Outputs include 2 × variable RCA, 1 × variable XLR, a fixed-level AUX3 for AV Direct and dual 12V triggers for seamless system integration. Tone controls for bass and treble offer ±6 dB adjustment in 2 dB steps, ideal for fine-tuning your system to room acoustics or speaker characteristics.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Flagship ES9038PRO DAC with HyperStream II and ultra-low jitter
- Fully balanced signal path with high S/N (>117 dB XLR)
- Dedicated Class-A MM phono stage of standalone quality
- Flexible tone controls and extensive I/O options
- High-performance headphone amplifier with current-feedback design
Cons
- Premium price point for discerning audiophiles
- Steeper learning curve to optimise advanced features
- Weighty 6.2 kg chassis requires sturdy shelving
Why the 9000Q Could Be Your Ultimate Preamp Partner
The Audiolab 9000Q is more than a preamplifier; it’s a versatile hub that brings out the best in every source. From vinyl enthusiasts seeking a transparent phono solution to digital devotees craving pure high-res playback, the 9000Q delivers uncompromised performance and flexibility. Ready to transform your system? Explore the Audiolab 9000Q Preamplifier on our site or speak with our team for personalised advice. Call 1300 308 711 or email sales@theaudiotailor.com.au to ignite your next sonic journey with our experts at The Audio Tailor.
