Advance Paris A-i130 Nova Hybrid Integrated Amplifier

Hybrid Design

The Nova acoustic architecture is based on the conviction that nothing replaces the warmth of tubes to reproduce live music. The ECC81 tube preamplification stage introduces harmonic richness that transistors alone cannot offer: a soundstage depth, rich tonality, and a true presence to the sound.

But uncontrolled heat is not high fidelity. That's why the Class AB amplification section, powered by a 380 VA toroidal transformer, takes over with authority — capturing the most demanding dynamics, controlling even challenging speakers.

4-channel DSP

Your room influences the sound: dimensions, materials, geometry. The NOVA's 4-channel DSP (ADAU1452) adjusts each speaker — tweeters and woofers — according to its position, handling crossover filtering and room EQ independently for each output.

Setting up a simple configuration is done directly in the amp's menu. Configure your speakers, and dial in your high-pass and low-pass crossover frequencies and slopes for each output independently.

If you're a more advanced user who wants to go further into full room correction, you can load custom EQ filter profiles using Room EQ Wizard software for PC / Mac, store up to four presets on a USB stick, and switch between them from the remote. External microphone required, available separately. 

The result: controlled bass, a stable soundstage, and speakers that take a back seat to the music. Studio precision, accessible from your amplifier.

Quad Mode DAC

Your audio file has a history: recording, mastering, various formats. NOVA preserves it.

Its ESS9017S DAC, in Quad mode, merges 8 channels into 4 analog paths of rare purity for reduced noise, expanded dynamic range, and restored micro-details. It handles all formats (PCM 24/192, DSD, HDMI eARC) without alteration.

Most DAC chips built into integrated amplifiers are run in standard stereo mode. Quad mode takes the chip's eight channels and bridges pairs of them together to create four higher-performance outputs. This bridging of channels reduces noise and expands dynamic range.

Two of the four outputs feed the main left and right amplifier channels, and the other two are dedicated line-level subwoofer outputs, each independently managed by the DSP.

ECC81 Tube Preamplification

Tubes persist because their unique warmth and presence still captivate discerning listeners.

The ECC81 tube in the NOVA, the first link in the signal chain, shapes the sound. Where a transistor reproduces coldly, the tube adds beautiful harmonics. They enrich vocals, strings, and brass.

The result is a deep soundstage, spatially separated instruments, and captivating presence. NOVA doesn't force you to choose between analog and digital. It merges the best of both of them.

HDMI eARC

The NOVA's HDMI eARC port allows for the best possible connection with your television. A single cable transmits the native digital signal, then processes it with the internal DSP and DAC. 

HDMI CEC ensures that when you switch on a compatible TV, the amplifier also switches on. The volume control can be done directly from your existing TV remote control, proving audiophile performance can also be intuitive and fit into your daily habits. 

Design and Build

The stunning NOVA range features a high-quality 8 mm thick brushed aluminum faceplate, anodized in your choice of black or grey. 

Its signature VU meters are customizable, and can be set to glow white or blue through the menu. Both the display and meter brightness can be independently dimmed to fit your space. 

Inside are reference components. Toroidal transformer, ALPS potentiometer, selected ECC81 tube, and more. The ALPS potentiometer on the NOVA, the first point of contact with every listen, offers linear and precise attenuation — a smooth weighted feel without imbalance or unexpected jumps. This volume control is a technical accomplishment that inspires confidence, feeling as good to operate as it sounds.

Modular Architecture

Devices become obsolete as the world evolves: new formats, new technology, new habits. The usual response? Replace them. 

NOVA instead focuses on scalability, with two interchangeable expansion slots. Currently, one is for the A-NTC cartridge, which adds network streaming when you want it. The other is for the A-BTC dongle, for uncompromising bidirectional Bluetooth.

And and insert one, or both, and your NOVA's feature set evolves. Advance Paris has focused on a core set of connections built into the NOVA amplifiers, but these slots enable expansion as desired. New modules can be created in the future as technology changes, so your amplifier grows with the times.