Audiolab 9000A + KEF LS50 META

The 9000A features the latest ESS 9038PRO flagship 32-bit DAC chip. Using the critically acclaimed patented HyperStream® II architecture and Time Domain Jitter Eliminator, the ES9038PRO delivers an unprecedented performance level that will satisfy the needs of the most demanding audio applications – fitting an amplifier of the 9000A’s calibre.

Years of experience and countless ESS-equipped models mean that audiolab is more than familiar with making the most of this technically excellent but challenging DAC technology. Great attention has been paid in developing a system that allows audiolab electronics and ESS DAC technology to offer the best in audiophile performance.

MQA all the way

The 9000A also delivers full decoding of MQA, the hi-res streaming technology from a custom engineered MQA certified DAC solution. This means that the complete ‘three unfold’ decoding process is performed internally, as opposed to just the final unfold in the manner of an MQA ‘renderer’, which makes the 9000A an excellent system choice for subscribers to Tidal’s ‘HiFi Plus’ tier where Tidal Masters (MQA) content can be found.

As expected for modern audio playback convenience, Bluetooth connectivity is featured as standard with the 9000A stepping up to the aptX HD protocol for sonically superior and easy wireless streaming from smartphones, tablets, laptops and more. Bluetooth-paired devices also benefit from the quality of the amp’s DAC section and filter options.

With every iteration of integrated amplifier design, audiolab works to improve on the bench-mark, built-in phono stage section. The 9000A is no different; pushing the boundaries of performance of an onboard phono pre-amp section. The all-new phono pre-amp for 9000A offers compatibility for moving magnet – a JFET-based circuit with precise RIAA equalisation offers the best of both worlds for the turntable using audiolab fans.

Similarly, for the headphone output stage employing current-feedback circuitry with wide bandwidth and high slew rate; the 9000A ensures a dynamic, detailed and engaging performance with all manner of headphone types, with that extra added audiolab sparkle from the consistent signal integrity from all inputs.

The audiolab 9000A continues with the theme of flexibility in audio system integration. As is a staple to the audiolab integrated amplifier design, the 9000A offers three variations of operating mode, making it a versatile and essential component in any system.

Headphone amplifier

Headphone listeners are equally well served by the 9000A’s dedicated headphone amplifier. With its current-feedback design and high slew rate, a dynamic and detailed performance with all manner of headphones is assured – a far cry from the elementary headphone outputs of most integrated amps.

KEF LS50 META

The Kef LS50 Meta is the replacement for the iconic LS50 speaker which was released way back in 2012 as a limited anniversary model and was one of the most award-winning speaker products ever released by KEF, receiving accolades from such publications as Stereophile, What Hi-Fi, and The Absolute Sound. So the new LS50 Meta have a lot to live up to.

Pushing the Technological Boundaries

The new KEF LS50 Meta pushes the technological boundaries in its mission to create the best possible sound, Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) is a highly complex maze-like structure that eliminates unwanted sound from the rear of driver, resulting in a purer, more natural performance. MAT is the physical manifestation of that drive. The result of a joint development project with the Acoustic Metamaterials Group, MAT breaks completely new ground in loudspeaker design….

LS50 Meta’s baffle is engineered from an injection-moulded Dough Moulding Compound, while inside the cabinet cross bracing and Constrained Layer Damping combine to deaden internal vibrations. The result of such meticulous attention to detail is the lowest coloration of any speaker in its class. Using Computational Fluid Dynamics, the port flare and profile of LS50 Meta’s patented off-set port is calculated to delay the onset of turbulence, and the flexible port walls prevent resonances from colouring the midrange. This leads to improved clarity, with exceptional depth and detail..

Redesigned and Improved

KEF's trademark Uni-Q driver has also been redesigned and improved, incorporating the new Meta technology. The Kef LS50 Meta certainly shares a likeness with the original. But while LS50 is a great speaker, LS50 Meta and the technological advances it boasts offer a truly dramatic improvement in sound quality…

The Kef S2 Floor Stands are optional but a must in our opinion, improving the performance and making them look simply stunning in any room.