Onkyo has announced the A-9110 and A-9130, new integrated stereo amplifiers.

The A-9110 (50w + 50w, 4 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 0.9% THD, 2-ch driven, IEC) and digital-audio-ready A-9130 (60w + 60w, 4 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 0.5% THD, 2-ch driven, IEC) with custom-made or hand-selected parts, simplified and shortened signal-path topology, and specialised tuning to deliver.

Key to the amplifiers’ lively dynamics says the company’s recent press release, is WRAT (Wide Range Amplification Technology), Onkyo’s high-current platform featuring a high-output EI transformer, two large custom-made main audio capacitors, and discrete power transistors. High-current capability allows fast response to speaker-impedance fluctuations.

You get RCA line-level inputs (four for the A-9110 and five gold-plated inputs for the A-9130) and discrete MM phono stages. The A-9130 adds coaxial and optical digital audio inputs with signals decoded by a Wolfson WM8718 D/A converter supporting 192 kHz/24-bit audio playback. The digital audio board automatically shuts down when an analogue input signal is detected to reduce potential interference on the signal. The A-9130’s digital audio inputs are ideal for TV connection.

Both models have line-level outputs, subwoofer outputs, and non-magnetic speaker binding posts encased in transparent plastic. The A-9130 also includes a direct main power-amp input for connection of an external pre-amplifier.

The A-9110 and A-9130 also boast Phase Matching Bass Boost, a loudness technology that aligns the phase of low- and mid-band frequencies above 300 Hz. together with Optimum Gain Volume Circuitry, which Onkyo says requires half the conventional amount of signal attenuation to prevent interference from the amps’ noise floor.

Both components feature Direct Mode. In this mode, tone-control and Phase Matching Bass Boost circuitry are bypassed, reducing signal-path lengths.

Addressing the effects of electro-mechanical resonance, the A-9110 receives a significant upgrade to casework rigidity over the A-9010. Both the A-9110 and A-9130 have thick 1.6mm metal chassis with large stable feet.

The front-panel has a slim display panel that shows the active input, while RI (Remote Interactive) inputs on the rear panel on both models unify system control with compatible Onkyo CD transports, digital tuners, and network streamers.

Prices (available in either black or silver, in September)

Onkyo A-9110 Integrated Stereo Amplifier – £229.99

Onkyo A-9130 Integrated Stereo Amplifier with DAC – £349.99