NuPrime IDA-8 Review by Geoffrey, Alpha-Audio

By Geoffrey, Alpha-Audio

“Compact, complete and complementary. Robust, round and rhythmic.”

In a crowded field of amplifiers, the NuPrime IDA-8 stood out in a major bookshelf amplifier multitest — and deserved a full-fledged review.

This compact unit matched effortlessly with every speaker tested, from Bowers & Wilkins 606 S2 to Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, thanks to its hybrid design (ULCAM Class A preamp + Class D amp). Delivering 100W into 8 Ohms, it’s powerful, musical, and remarkably versatile for its size.

Sound Quality

“This is quite a powerful amplifier with a round mid-bass and enough punch in the sub-bass… The reproduction is gentle but with a great sense of timing.”

From warm, controlled treble to calm, fatigue-free listening, the IDA-8 balances detail with musicality — even across more demanding genres like jazz and electronic.

Test albums like Faye Webster’s “I Know I’m Funny haha” and Nordmann’s “In Velvet” showcased its strong stereo image, great PRAT (pace, rhythm, and timing), and an impressively composed soundstage.

Connectivity & Usability

With optical, coax, USB, RCA, and Bluetooth inputs, plus a sub-out, the IDA-8 is ready to integrate into any modern or analog system. Pair it with your streamer, CD player, or even turntable (via external phono stage) — all controlled through its elegant remote and intuitive front panel.

“It’s a small device with enough power to drive almost any speaker.”

Despite its size (just 5.5 cm high), the NuPrime IDA-8 has earned praise for exceptional build quality and a surprisingly complete feature set. The Sabre ES9010K2M DAC supports DSD and handles even high-resolution files with ease.

Pros:

✅ Compact design
✅ Wide digital and analog connectivity
✅ Punchy, musical, and balanced sound
✅ Compatible with many speaker types
✅ Excellent value for the price

Cons:

❌ Runs hot
❌ Remote slightly less responsive at an angle

Final Thoughts

“Compact, complete and complementary.”
“Robust, round and rhythmic.”

The NuPrime IDA-8 leaves a lasting impression — not only for what it offers at its price point, but for how confidently it performs across genres, speaker types, and setups. This amplifier delivers power with control, and musicality without harshness — making it an ideal partner for both casual listening and more refined critical sessions.

What stood out to the reviewer?

✅ The IDA-8 performs well even with modestly priced speakers, where lesser amps can fall short.
✅ Its hybrid architecture (Class A + D) brings out the emotion in music while keeping timing and rhythm tight.
✅ Despite being compact, it doesn’t compromise on build quality or connection options.
✅ It brings a calm, balanced sound that allows you to enjoy extended listening without fatigue.

“This entry-level system does in any case not do badly and can be the ideal solution for a compact and affordable system.”

For those who want to maximize performance in a minimal footprint, the NuPrime IDA-8 offers a smart, stylish, and sonically rich experience. And for anyone curious about NuPrime as a brand, this is a fantastic entry point — one that’s already turned heads.