The Audiophonics PA-S125NC XLR integrates a Hypex NCore NC122MP power amplification module. This is a solid basis for building a high-performance stereo HiFi system, capable of delivering 2x75W under 8Ω. On a single double-sided PCB, it features a low-power power supply for standby, a high-performance disconnect power supply but above all a highly efficient Class D amplification circuit.

The amplifier used on this NC122MP module offers a high efficiency of 92% and allows it to be used for very different uses, whether for studio use or to be integrated into a high fidelity audio system. The distinctive characteristics of this amplifier are its response in linear frequency, whatever the charge impedance and consequently its restitution of a high transparency, its très low distortion, but also its très low EMI radiation rate. The amplifier control is based on a self-oscillating phase-shift loop, taking into account the response only at the output of the loudspeaker, always with a view to transparency and sound precision.

The main SMPS power supply to the amplifier is a half-bridge converter "Half Bridge">"Half Bridge" regular, high power and high efficiency, with synchronous rectification on the main output rails. An ideal power supply to provide this Class D amplifier with the power it needs.

100% Aluminium case integration

We integrate this Hypex NCore NC122MP amplifier into a 100% black brushed aluminum housing. This case offers an elegant finish. Its thick walls give it a high resistance, allowing it to effectively protect the components. The natural conduction of Aluminium and a studied air flow allow the heat produced by the module to be dissipated. In addition, the housing is silkscreened on the front with the NCore logo and on the back with the nomenclature of each input/output.

Its very compact size with a small width allows to reduce the space requirement as much as possible, thus offering high performance in a limited space. This amplifier does not have a decoupling capacitor. As a result, it allows the DC component of the signal to pass through. It is therefore strongly recommended to make sure that your source does not have a DC output component. The DC protection of the module remains permissive by switching on at 12VDC.

On the connector side, there are speaker terminals at the input of the Mini XLR stereo and at the output. In addition, there is a trigger input in 3.5mm Jack format. This last one allows to switch on the module with a signal of a DC voltage of 5V to 12V to synchronize it with an amplifier having this type of output. It is also possible to chain 2 amplifiers and switch them on simultaneously by controlling only one, the input being transformed into an output if the power button of one of the amplifiers is activated. Finally, a LED on the front panel indicates the status of the module and therefore lights up if a DC voltage is detected at the output.

Audiophonics PA-S125NC review by Qobuz

" The Audiophonics PA-S125NC amplifier, while offering the compactness and excellent performance of a switching model, offers a sound quality that is generally rather sweet over a large part of the audio spectrum, yet very muscular in the bass. "