- News
- Posted
Advance Paris Nova A-i130 & A-i190
Advance Paris has introduced the Nova series, a new flagship platform of hybrid integrated amplifiers designed to function as complete control centers for modern stereo systems while preserving the company's established tube-assisted analog architecture. Positioned above the Classic and Apex ranges in the manufacturer's lineup, the Nova platform represents Advance Paris's most ambitious integrated amplifier concept to date. The series includes two amplifiers - the A-i130 and A-i190 - together with optional streaming and Bluetooth expansion modules and a dedicated rotary remote controller. First previewed at High End Munich 2025, the lineup is scheduled to make its North American debut at AXPONA 2026, with global availability expected from May 2026.
At the heart of both amplifiers is a hybrid signal path built around an ECC81 tube preamplifier stage driving a Class AB transistor output section. This architecture reflects the company's long-standing approach of combining the tonal character associated with small-signal valves with the current delivery and stability of conventional solid-state amplification. The tube stage is visibly integrated into the front panel alongside large analog VU meters with selectable illumination, reinforcing the distinctive visual identity that has defined Advance Paris electronics for years.
Digital processing plays a central role in the Nova concept. Both amplifiers employ an ESS9017 DAC operating in Quad mode together with a four-channel DSP engine responsible for equalization and crossover management not only for the main stereo channels but also for up to two subwoofers. This allows the amplifiers to support 2.1 and 2.2 configurations with independent control and filtering, positioning them closer to modern system hubs than to conventional integrated amplifiers. Dedicated power supplies for the DAC and analog circuitry further support signal integrity across mixed digital-analog operation.
Connectivity reflects the same system-control philosophy. Alongside five stereo RCA inputs and a phono stage, the amplifiers provide optical and coaxial digital inputs, USB with DSD support, HDMI eARC for television integration, pre-out and record-out connections, dual subwoofer outputs, and a 6.35 mm headphone socket. The A-i190 extends this specification further with balanced XLR inputs and a balanced preamplifier output, while its phono stage supports both MM and MC cartridges. Together, these features allow the amplifiers to replace multiple separate components within a single chassis without limiting system flexibility.
Power output distinguishes the two models. The A-i130 delivers 130 watts per channel into 8 ohms using a single toroidal transformer, while the A-i190 adopts a dual-mono architecture with two toroidal transformers and increases output to 190 watts per channel. The dual-transformer layout improves channel separation and current delivery under demanding load conditions, making the larger model suitable for more complex loudspeaker systems and higher-performance installations.
Both amplifiers support optional expansion through internal module slots. The A-NTC streaming module adds network playback capability with support for Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, AirPlay 2, Chromecast, DLNA, and Roon over Ethernet or Wi-Fi, with playback up to 24-bit/192 kHz. Installed internally, the module integrates directly into the amplifier chassis without requiring external enclosures or additional cabling. Wireless connectivity can be added via the optional A-BTC Bluetooth 5.4 module, which enables both transmission and reception using codecs including aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, aptX Low Latency, and AAC.
A further accessory, the A-RTR rotary remote controller, introduces an alternative approach to everyday operation. Designed as a tabletop control interface rather than a conventional handset, the device provides direct physical volume adjustment together with input selection and power control. Communication with the amplifier takes place wirelessly via the A-BTC module, forming part of the modular Nova ecosystem.
Advance Paris is a French hi-fi manufacturer known for hybrid amplifier designs combining tube voltage stages with transistor output sections. Over the past two decades the company has developed a broad catalog of integrated amplifiers, preamplifiers, power amplifiers, and digital components intended to bridge traditional stereo listening with contemporary connectivity requirements, with the Nova series representing its most advanced attempt so far to unify amplification, digital processing, and system integration within a single modular platform. The Advance Paris Nova A-i130 is priced at $6,499/€4,490/£4,250, while the A-i190 is priced at $7,999/€5,490/£5,250. The optional A-NTC streaming module is expected to retail for $599/€399/£399. Info and photos by Advance Paris.
