Audiolab D9

Overview

The Audiolab D9 is a reference-grade digital-to-analog converter and headphone amplifier built around the flagship ESS Sabre ES9038PRO 32-bit DAC. Engineered in the UK by Audiolab, a British hi-fi electronics maker founded in 1983, it carries the brand's signature character: clean, controlled and balanced sound that lets recordings speak for themselves. It is designed as the digital heart of a high-resolution system, converting a wide range of sources into a transparent analog signal ready for your amplifier or headphones.

Connectivity is comprehensive, spanning an AES/EBU input alongside Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX, aptX HD and LDAC for high-quality wireless streaming. The D9 offers both balanced XLR and RCA outputs, plus USB HDD playback for direct file access. A certified MQA full decoder unfolds MQA files to their highest resolution, while a crisp 2.8 inch IPS display and a classic VU meter keep you informed and connected to the music.

For headphone listeners, the D9 integrates a current-feedback headphone amplifier tuned to drive demanding headphones with authority and low noise. It suits the discerning listener who wants a single, elegant reference source for both a main system and a dedicated headphone setup, delivering the clarity and precision that define Audiolab.

Key Features

• Reference ESS Sabre ES9038PRO 32-bit DAC for transparent, low-distortion conversion
• Certified MQA full decoder for the highest MQA resolution playback
• Current-feedback headphone amplifier engineered to drive demanding headphones
• Balanced XLR and RCA outputs for flexible integration with any amplifier
• AES/EBU digital input for professional-grade source connections
• Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX, aptX HD and LDAC for high-quality wireless streaming
• USB HDD playback for direct access to your stored music library
• 2.8 inch IPS display with a classic VU meter for at-a-glance monitoring
• Available in Black or Silver to match your system

How the D9 Compares

Audiolab D9 vs Audiolab D7

The D7 shares Audiolab's clean, balanced house character and serves as an excellent DAC and headphone amp for a focused digital system. The D9 steps up to the flagship ES9038PRO converter and a 2.8 inch IPS display with VU meter, making it the reference choice within the range for listeners who want the most resolving front end Audiolab offers. Choose the D7 for a streamlined solution and the D9 when you want the top-tier converter and larger feature set. See the Audiolab D7.

Audiolab D9 vs Matrix Audio ND-1 Audio DAC

The Matrix Audio ND-1 is a dedicated DAC aimed at a network-forward listener building around its own ecosystem and interface philosophy. The Audiolab D9 leans into a classic British electronics approach with a current-feedback headphone amp, VU meter and MQA full decoding in one reference-grade chassis. Pick the ND-1 for its particular workflow, or the D9 for Audiolab's clarity-focused character and integrated headphone stage. See the Matrix Audio ND-1 Audio DAC.

Audiolab D9 vs TEAC HA-507

The TEAC HA-507 is a pure analog headphone amplifier and preamplifier for those who want a dedicated analog stage feeding their headphones. The Audiolab D9 combines a reference ES9038PRO DAC with a current-feedback headphone amp, so it converts digital sources and drives headphones in one unit. Choose the HA-507 if you already own a DAC and want a standalone analog amp, or the D9 for an all-in-one digital reference source. See the TEAC HA-507.

Recommended Amplification and Speakers

The D9 is a source component, so pair it with Audiolab amplification and capable speakers to build a complete, coherent system. These pairings keep the clean, controlled Audiolab character intact from digital front end to loudspeaker.

• Audiolab 9000A Integrated Amplifier The flagship 9000A integrated is a natural partner for the reference D9, matching its transparency and giving you power and control from a single Audiolab-designed amplifier.
• Audiolab 7000A Integrated Amplifier The 7000A pairs beautifully with the D9 for a balanced, clear system with plenty of drive, ideal when you want the D9 as your primary digital source into a capable integrated.
• Audiolab 9000Q Preamplifier Feed the D9's balanced XLR output into the 9000Q for a full separates preamp stage, keeping the signal path clean and matched to Audiolab's design goals.
• Audiolab 9000P Amplifier Combine the 9000P with the 9000Q to complete a reference separates system that delivers effortless power while preserving the D9's resolution and balance.
• LEAK Sandwich 150 Bookshelf Loudspeakers These characterful standmounts reveal the detail and control the D9 provides, making a musical and refined endpoint for the system.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Audiolab D9?
The D9 is a reference-grade digital-to-analog converter and headphone amplifier engineered in the UK by Audiolab, built around the flagship ESS Sabre ES9038PRO 32-bit DAC.

Which DAC chip does the D9 use?
It uses the ESS Sabre ES9038PRO 32-bit DAC, one of the top converters in the ESS Sabre lineup.

Does the D9 support MQA?
Yes, the D9 is a certified MQA full decoder, so it can unfold MQA files to their highest resolution.

What digital inputs does the D9 have?
The D9 includes an AES/EBU digital input, along with Bluetooth 5.1 and USB HDD playback.

What analog outputs does the D9 offer?
It provides both balanced XLR and RCA outputs for flexible integration with your amplifier or preamplifier.

Does the D9 have Bluetooth?
Yes, the D9 features Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX, aptX HD and LDAC support for high-quality wireless streaming.

Does the D9 have a headphone amplifier?
Yes, it includes a current-feedback headphone amplifier designed to drive demanding headphones with authority and low noise.

Can the D9 play music from a USB hard drive?
Yes, the D9 supports USB HDD playback, allowing direct access to music stored on a connected drive.

Does the D9 have a display?
Yes, it has a 2.8 inch IPS display and a classic VU meter for monitoring at a glance.

What finishes are available?
The D9 is available in Black or Silver.

Is the D9 a streamer?
The D9 is a DAC and headphone amplifier with Bluetooth 5.1 and USB HDD playback. It is not a network streamer, so pair it with a streaming source if you need network playback.

How does the D9 compare to the Audiolab D7?
The D7 shares Audiolab's clean, balanced character in a streamlined DAC and headphone amp, while the D9 steps up to the flagship ES9038PRO converter and a larger feature set as the reference choice in the range.

What amplifier should I pair with the D9?
Audiolab integrated amplifiers like the 9000A, 7000A or 6000A MKII are ideal, or you can use the 9000Q preamplifier with the 9000P power amplifier for a full separates system.

Can I connect the D9 to a preamplifier?
Yes, its balanced XLR and RCA outputs make it easy to connect to a preamplifier such as the Audiolab 9000Q.

What are the dimensions and weight of the D9?
The D9 measures 3.5 x 10.9 x 12.4 inches and weighs 9.3 pounds.

Does the D9 work well with hard-to-drive headphones?
Yes, the current-feedback headphone amplifier is engineered to drive demanding headphones cleanly and with control.

Can I use the D9 as the digital source for a two-channel system?
Absolutely. Feed it a digital source, connect its outputs to an Audiolab amplifier and speakers, and it becomes the digital heart of a complete stereo system.

What warranty does the D9 include?
The D9 is covered by a 3 year parts and labor warranty through Audiolab via MoFi Distribution for the original owner.

Is All Elite Audio an authorized Audiolab dealer?
Yes, All Elite Audio is an authorized Audiolab dealer, so your D9 comes with full manufacturer warranty coverage and genuine support.

Why buy from All Elite Audio?
All Elite Audio is an authorized Audiolab dealer offering expert guidance, genuine products with full warranty coverage, and knowledgeable support to help you build the right system around the D9.