It’s always exciting for us when a What-Hi-Fi? Award-winner gets a new sibling - especially when the winner in question has claimed three consecutive awards, and especially when it’s not only getting one sibling but two.
The Onkyo A-9010 has taken home the best budget stereo amplifier award since its debut in 2015. Now it (and its 'A'-range compatriots) are joined by the new A-9110 (£230) and A-9130 (£350).
Like the A-9010, the A-9110 is analogue-only. The A-9130 is digital-ready, with an onboard DAC feeding digital connections.
The two amplifiers have four and five RCA line-level inputs respectively, and an MM phono stage. The A-9130 adds coaxial and optical inputs, fed by a Wolfson WM8718 DAC supporting 24bit/192kHz playback.
In the A-9130, the digital audio board is designed to automatically shut down when an analogue input signal is detected - this is intended to reduce potential signal interference.
RI (Remote Interactive) inputs on the amplifiers’ rear panels allow universal system control with compatible Onkyo CD transports, digital tuners and network streamers.
Both models have line-level outputs and subwoofer outputs too, with the A-9130 also featuring a direct power-amp input allowing it to hook up to an external pre-amp.
Like the A-9010, the two new amplifiers are based on Onkyo’s high-current WRAT (Wide Range Amplification Technology).
In addition, the A-9110 and A-9130 feature Phase Matching Bass Boost technology (which is designed to align the phase of low and mid frequencies for supposedly richer bass and clearer vocals), as well as Optimum Gain Volume Circuitry, which works to prevent interference from the amps' noise floor.
Last but not least is Direct Mode, which reduces the length of the signal path by bypassing tone control and Phase Matching Bass Boost circuitries.
The new amplifiers’ casework has been upgraded to a 1.6mm-thick metal chassis, designed to improve rigidity and reduce vibrations and resonance. And on its fascia is a screen displaying current input selection.
The Onkyo A-9110 and A-9130 integrated stereo amplifiers will be available in September in either black or silver finishes.
MORE:
Best budget stereo amplifiers 2018
10 of the best budget stereo speakers 2018
How to choose and set up a stereo amplifier
