The Swabian speaker direct seller Nubert is always good for a surprise. Of course, it was clear that Schwäbisch Gmünder would soon bring an integrated amplifier. After all, the loyal Nu fan community has been calling for this for a long time. Now it’s here: its full name is Nubert nuConnect ampX – that fits perfectly and is not promised too much.
However, he presents himself differently than one might have expected. The Nubert developers have proven in recent years that they can very well build amplifiers. However, they come in full-size format, as the amp combination nuControl/nuPower D and the mighty nuPower A prove.
The nuConnect ampX, on the other hand, is completely different. With ultra-compact housing, optically minimalist appearance, and savvy connectivity, it undoubtedly belongs to the species of modern smart amps. The usability via the app and the extensive wireless functions also go well with this.
Nevertheless, the nuConnect ampX is again a real Nubert. Owners of loudspeakers from the nuPro family will also find a lot of familiar features in the nuConnext ampX. The abbreviation “ampX” already gives it away: Nubert’s baby amplifier has a number of similarities with the nuPro models of Generation X. LowBeats has already extensively tested two of these, namely the compact Nubert nuPro X-3000 and nuPro X-4000.
The Nubert nuConnect ampX has adopted their sophisticated operating concept almost one-to-one. Just like the nuPros, the nuConnect can also be set up and controlled directly on the device, using the included remote control or the app. Since the nuConnect ampX can also serve as a control center in more extensive hi-fi systems, it offers extended customization options in the setup menu. This will be discussed in more detail later.
How can a nonoversampling DAC sound good?
The power pack
Small, strong, black – with a nominal output power of 2 x 110 watts at 4 ohms, the Nubert nuConnect ampX is the espresso among the integrated amplifiers. Such a high “power density” is not feasible with conventional amplifier technology. That’s why the nuConnect relies technically consistently on the highly effective combination of switching amplifier and switching power supply.
However, unlike most of its compact competitors, the amp does not use quasi-analog Class D power amp technology. Rather, he uses an in-house process that has also proven itself in the numero active loudspeakers for several years. The central, digital signal processor (DSP) provides the direct data stream for the switching output stages (pulse density modulation). Advantage of this method: The D/A conversion required for class D amps is no longer necessary. This means that the signal processing up to the loudspeaker occurs almost completely in the digital domain. Among other things, this enables a very high signal-to-noise ratio.
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nuConnect ampX – connectivity is key
The Nubert nuConnect is also contemporary in the distribution of its hardware inputs: with 6:2, digital audio sources dominate here. No less contemporary is the use of one of the two analog inputs to connect turntables. Its switchable sensitivity even enables the optional operation of MM or MC pickups.
Digital hi-res audio is of course also welcome: All digital inputs – including the two optical ones – can process audio material of up to 24bit/192kHz. A Nubert specialty is the USB-A socket intended for powering mobile players. With the help of an included adapter box, this becomes an HDMI input. In this way, for example, digital sound can be imported from the TV set.
Despite all the variety of connections – the magic word for the Nubert nuConnect ampX is “wireless”. That applies to him in two respects. The Bluetooth input for mobile players is now a quasi-standard for amps in its format. Whether SBC, AAC, aptX HD, or aptX Low Latency – the little Nubert takes it as it comes.
The second wireless input, on the other hand, is a specialty: It uses an in-house transmission protocol that operates in the frequency range between 5 and 6 gigahertz. Working bidirectionally, it can initially receive audio signals. These can come from other nuConnect amps, for example, or from Generation X nuPro active loudspeakers. Audio signals can also be transmitted in this way to other receivers – meaning other nuConnect amps or nuPro X active speakers.
nuConnect ampX – multiroom operation
The wireless mode makes it easy to create tailor-made listening zones. For example the following scenario: In the living room there are two active loudspeakers Nubert nuPro X-6000 as the main system (… which, by the way, are currently completing their final test course at LowBeats ). In the roof gallery, on the other hand, there is a nuConnect ampX, which, for example, drives two passive nuBox 325 Jubilee (or similar loudspeakers from other manufacturers). And because there is still space for a wallboard on the gable wall, a record player can also find an ideal, undisturbed place to stay here.
First of all, you can now listen to the music you want in both zones independently of each other. On the other hand, you can tune in to the program currently running in the living room in the roof gallery (party mode) – of course with individually adjustable volume. Of course, this also works the other way around: the program from the roof gallery can be “taken over” just as well in the living room – for example from the record player. There are only a few limits to the concept – why not another nuConnect in the study?
nuConnect ampX – the specials
The nuConnect has also adopted all the facilities for individual sound design from the nuPro active loudspeakers. First of all, there are bass and treble controls: the latter works as a so-called tilt equalizer. It can be used to raise or lower the entire audio frequency range above 1,000 Hz, similar to an adjustable ramp (called “sound scales” in Nubert jargon).
A 5-band graphic equalizer is also available. This can be used, for example, to correct the center emphasis that occurs when compact loudspeakers are placed on a desktop. The switchable loudness device is also on board. It compensates for the ear sensitivity that decreases at low volumes with low tones.
The loudspeaker distances required for spatial stereo reproduction are not always feasible, which is especially true for small hi-fi systems. As a specialist for such cases, the nuConnect therefore has a switchable stereo base width setting. It can add room reflections generated by the DSP in five stages to make the sound image appear more extensive with small speaker distances.
The nuConnect ampX wouldn’t come from Nubert if it didn’t have a subwoofer output. A corresponding low-pass filter with an adjustable cut-off frequency is also on board. And that’s not all. Thanks to its high-pass filter, which can be set in 1 Hertz increments, the nuConnect ampX allows the satellites connected to be precisely adjusted to the woofer.
The nuConnect ampX accommodates all this variety of functions in a housing volume of almost 3 liters. What’s really remarkable is that despite its low weight of just 2,550 grams, its all-metal case looks exceptionally solid and is also extremely well made.
The nuConnect ampX in a listening test
With its lifestyle concept, the nuConnect, which costs just under 690 euros, is certainly not primarily aimed at the audiophile fan community. Nevertheless, LowBeats wanted to know what “works” in terms of sound. That’s why we chose the excellent Fyne Audio FS 502 and the ambitious Buchardt Audio S400 as playing partners for the small Nubert (passive) loudspeaker with quite audiophile aspirations. Both are currently doing their test runs in our listening room.
Both combinations surprised me with an amazingly harmonious and spirited performance. That’s why they got a lot of appreciative approval from all the guests who stopped by the listening room during the recording time. In fact, such “flying visit tests” are quite meaningful, since the hearing of the flying visitor has not yet adapted to the current situation.
Of course, top amplifiers such as the Neukomm CPA155S showed in comparison that there is still more to be had, especially in terms of transparency. It would be worrying if this were not the case. Little Nubert didn’t want to lose tonal coherence and the necessary tonal “feel good factor” under any circumstances.
The much-cited, digital coolness was also not an issue with the nuConnect (…although I find this attribute quite “off the mark”). Its sound character was more compact and well-grounded – not a trace of glassiness.
Such a “briquette” like the nuConnect is often packed in a bag to smuggle it into a friend’s hi-fi system. The Nubert amp was also able to convince with such “reality checks”. The fact that its sound quality via analog input was equal to pure digital operation also proved its worth here.
A heart for vinyl
Fortunately, this also applies to the phono input. The nuConnect even got along very well with high-quality MC cartridges, such as a Lyra Dorian. Listening to top analog productions from the 1980s – such as Avalon by Roxy Music or Cupid & Psyche ’85 by Scritti Politti – was incredible fun with little Nubert: Dynamic power, finely detailed work, and three-dimensionality – nothing was missing.
A welcome, practical side effect: the AmpX outputs the program source currently being played back in 24-bit 96 kHz format via its digital output. Of course, this also applies to the phono input, so that you can even digitally transfer your vinyl sweethearts.
Nubert nuConnect ampX – conclusion
This test shows that even with amplifiers, it doesn’t always have to be “full format”. Thanks to modern switching amplifier technology, the Nubert nuConnect ampX achieves plenty of output power with an amazing variety of functions in the smallest of spaces. This makes it a multi-talent for all cases. Nubert’s quality standards don’t suffer as a result. This applies to the sound as well as to solidity and workmanship.
It is remarkable that his “specials” are not only available but are also implemented in a high quality. Here, for example, is the phono input, which – exceptionally – has no alibi function, but sounds surprisingly good. One thing is certain: at 689 euros, the Nubert nuConnect ampX is an all-round “decent” offer – and thus once again in the style of the house.
FAQs Nubert nuConnect ampX Integrated Amplifier
How much power does the nuConnect ampX deliver?
It provides 110 watts per channel at 4 ohms and 60 watts per channel at 8 ohms, making it suitable for a wide variety of speakers.
Does the Nubert nuConnect ampX support wireless streaming?
Yes, it supports wireless streaming via Bluetooth with aptX HD for high-quality audio transmission. It can also integrate with Nubert’s X-Connect system for wireless connections to compatible Nubert speakers.
What kind of connectivity options does the nuConnect ampX offer?
It features a wide range of inputs, including digital (optical, coaxial, USB), analog (RCA), HDMI ARC, and a phono input for turntables. It also supports subwoofer output.
Does the Nubert nuConnect ampX have a built-in DAC?
Yes, it comes with a built-in high-quality DAC (digital-to-analog converter) for handling digital audio inputs.
Is there a built-in phono stage for vinyl playback?
Yes, the nuConnect ampX includes a built-in phono preamp (MM) for connecting turntables directly.
Can I control the Nubert nuConnect ampX remotely?
The amplifier comes with a remote control, and it can also be controlled via Nubert’s mobile app, offering additional functionality like streaming controls and firmware updates.
Does it support multi-room audio setups?
Yes, when used with Nubert’s X-Connect compatible speakers, the ampX can function in a multi-room audio system, enabling synchronized playback across different rooms.
What kind of tone controls does the Nubert nuConnect ampX offer?
It provides bass, treble, and balance controls, allowing for some customization of the sound signature.
Where is the Nubert nuConnect ampX manufactured?
It is designed and manufactured in Germany, known for high-quality engineering and audio expertise.
Pros
Versatile Connectivity:
Wireless Capabilities:
Built-in Phono Stage:
High-Quality DAC:
Compact Design:
Multi-Room Audio Support:
Flexible Sound Adjustment:
App Control and Firmware Updates:
Cons
Moderate Power Output:
No Support for Advanced Streaming Services:
No Balanced (XLR) Inputs:
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