Evolution STA-SE

$ 5,499.00

The Evolution STA-SE sets a new standard in distortion reduction with its Only Distortion Cancellation (ODC) technology and proprietary ultra-low-noise GaN (Gallium Nitride) power supply. This combination delivers exceptional clarity, a deep and expansive soundstage, high dynamic range, and warm, Class A-like tonal characteristics. Featuring a dual-mono stereo configuration, the amplifier outputs 400W x 2 at both 8 Ohm and 4 Ohm loads.

SKU: NP-EVOSTA-SE Categories: Amplifier & Preamp, Evolution Series

Guides:--> Amp Comparison & Sonic Characteristic --> Amp Design & NuPrime's Advantages

What is Only Distortion Cancellation (ODC) ?

A typical feedback error correction design inverts the output signal for summation with the original input signal to derive the negative error signal, which adds to the next cycle of the input signal to form a more accurate output signal. Nuprime’s ODC Class-D design derives the error signal from MOSFET devices and the output filter circuit directly, significantly reducing the negative feedback signal, which resulted in a substantial reduction in distortion THD+N of 0.002% @1kHz(5W), and less than 0.005% THD+N at 1KHZ (2W-100W). This breakthrough improvement in Class-D design resulted in a natural and pure sound characteristic.

Revolutionary ANC GaN Power Supply Technology

Advanced GaN Power Factor Correction with Active Noise Cancellation

At the heart of the Evolution STA-SE’s power supply architecture lies a sophisticated dual-phase interleaved GaN Power Factor Correction (PFC) circuit with Active Noise Cancellation. The feedback-based active noise-cancelling system functions much like ANC headphone technology, suppressing power supply noise to the level of a high-end linear supply. This innovative design approach delivers exceptional voltage regulation while maintaining minimal noise levels and achieving ultra-high efficiency.

The dual-phase interleaved topology represents a significant engineering advancement, allowing for smoother power delivery and reduced ripple current compared to traditional single-phase designs. This results in cleaner power conversion and improved overall system performance.

Gallium Nitride High Frequency High Efficiency Power Module (Gan HFHFPM)

Beyond the PFC stage, the Evolution STA-SE employs new-generation GaN semiconductor modules for the critical power conversion stages that supply the amplifier circuits. The choice of GaN semiconductors over traditional silicon-based solutions enables this extraordinary power density (400W x 2) while maintaining excellent thermal characteristics and switching efficiency. This translates to reduced heat generation and improved long-term reliability.

Engineering Excellence Through Miniaturization

Perhaps most remarkably, this advanced power supply system delivers performance equivalent to traditional transformer-based power supplies while occupying only one-fourth the physical space and weighing merely 20% of conventional designs. This dramatic reduction in size and weight opens new possibilities for amplifier design and placement flexibility without compromising performance.

Performance Benefits

The integration of GaN Power Factor Correction with GaN Power Modules creates a synergistic effect that delivers multiple performance advantages. The system achieves exceptional efficiency with minimal energy loss, translating to reduced operating costs and environmental impact. The high power output capability within such a compact form factor represents a paradigm shift in power supply design philosophy.

The original Evolution STA was compared as peer to a top tier Class A stereo amp costing 6 times as much (https://nuprimeaudio.com/nuprime-evolution-sta-stereo-power-amplifier/). The ANC GaN PSU and amplifier upgrade in “STA-SE” allow Evolution STA-SE to out perform traditional the best world class solid state or tube amps.

The Evolution STA-SE sound characteristics can be described as:

Wider and deeper soundstage with no loss of clarity at the greatest depth. With large scale orchestral recordings, you will be able to have a clear image of the last rows of percussion and wind, even the subtle pedal sounds! Such details are presented in a truthful manner without artificial enhancements.
Faster dynamics with greater range
Natural and pure due to ultra-low distortion
Cleaner background that provides greater detail and nuances
Class-A like warmth

Notable Features

A stereo amplifier with dual mono implementation.
NuPrime breakthrough Only Distortion Cancellation (ODC) Class D design.
Preamp stage and Class D oscillation circuit utilizing high-end NJR MUSES8820 op-amp.
650KHz high-speed switching frequency allows greater resolution to be achieved.
The entire power path fully adopts 40A ultra-high current and low resistance terminals. Improve current dynamic capability. Total of 52,000uF power supply filter capacitors.
High quality copper PCB trace instead of usual cables are used to connect the power supply to the amplifier’s circuitry, maximizing power delivery.
Hybrid Class-D technology that retains the merits of both Class-A and Class-D amplification.

Specifications:

Power Output (RMS): 400W @ 8 Ohms , 400W @ 4 Ohms
Gain: x21
Sensitivity (to rated power): 2Vrms
Input Impedance: 47K Ohms
Output Impedance: 4m Ohm
Furutech FP900 RCA input connectors and Eichmann binding post.
WATT / THD / S/N (typical) : @5W (0.0025% ,95db) , @50W (0.007% , 105db) , @100W (0.01% , 110db)
Frequency Response: 10Hz to 50kHz (-3dB)
Trigger IN and OUT
Standby Power : 1.5W @ 115V outlet, 1.7W @ 230V outlet
Idle Power : 24W @ 115V outlet, 26W @ 230V outlet
Worldwide AC voltage: (115VAC / 230VAC) with Voltage Select Switch
AC Fuse : Slow blow , 7A , 250VAC
Color : Black or Silver
Product Dimension: 57 x 430 x 375 mm (H x W x D)
Package Dimension: 642 x 594 x 254 mm (H x W x D)
Product Weight: 5.2kg
Package Weight: 7.5kg

Warranty: 3 years.

NuPrime Evolution STA stereo power amplifier

– CHRISTIAAN PUNTER, hifi-advice.com

“Between the CH and the NuPrime, certain key aspects have certainly noticeably shifted, but on the surface of it, and in an absolute sense, there is not very much to indicate that we just switched from a 31 K amplifier to one costing only 5 K. Honestly, it was more like switching from one high-end amplifier to another, invoking differences catering more to taste than to absolute quality. For instance, the Big Swiss amp remains the King of resolution and refinement. But to offset this, the NuPrime actually overshadows the CH in a couple of areas.”

NuPrime Evolution Dac-2 and STA combination review by HiFi.NL

NuPrime unveils the Evolution DAC-2, a successor to its acclaimed Evolution DAC, marking a milestone in its top-tier lineup. Coupled with the Evolution STA power amp, it forms an impressive music duo. Boasting stellar sound, diverse inputs, and sleek design, the NuPrime Evolution DAC-2 secures a formidable market stance.

NuPrime Evolution DAC-2/STA/Two Review by Fullrange(Korea)

Evolution STA review by feverSound.com (Hong Kong)

Evolution STA review by feverSound.com

Customer Review: Evolution STA – Stellar amplifier and outstanding service

– Chad Olsen, summithifiusa.com

“As it turns out, I did not have to worry. With the Evolution STA in the system, there was no perceived loss of bass control. Indeed, there was the same control, but with a more detailed bass than the AMG STA’s. As cliche as it sounds, across the frequency spectrum, I was hearing things that I swear I had not heard before with the AMG STA’s. The Evolution STA was able to do all this while retaining the detailed yet smooth sound signature that I really like about Nuprime amplification. The Evolution STA represents the best class D implementation I have heard. This is a truly end game type amplifier for me.”

NuPrime Evolution STA, Evolution DAC and CDT-10

Nuprime Evolution STA, Evolution DAC, CDT-10

– Eugenio

“…I have never particularly loved class D, but this new Nuprime amplification is truly extraordinary and I must admit that compared to the Spectral of a few years the leap forward is remarkable from every point of view.”

NuPrime Audio Evolution STA Power Amplifier

– Dick Olsher, theabsolutesound.com

“…First up was the Fleetwood Sound De Ville loudspeaker, a fairly benign 8-ohm bass-reflex load. Several sonic characteristics became evident rather quickly. First was the exceedingly low noise floor. Backgrounds appeared to be eerily quiet, more so than with the average solid-state amp and, obviously, without the tube-rush noise that I’ve become accustomed to. Second, resolution of low-level detail was superb. In particular, violin vibrato was exquisitely resolved with the sort of timing precision I’ve only experienced from far more expensive amps. But what surprised me the most was the Evolution STA’s ability to flesh out a believable depth perspective. In fact, the soundstage was exceptionally transparent, wide, and deep, with believable image focus. So now I’m thinking to myself, can a Class D amp really dish out this sort of imaging? And then it got even better. Micro dynamics were served up with emotional expressiveness. Orchestral crescendos were unfurled with tremendous power and control. And bass lines were punchy and tightly defined. It began to occur to me that this amp was going to be difficult to criticize.
……
This scenario was much different than that presented by, say, a single-ended triode amp, whose distortion spectrum is rich in even harmonics and as a result dominates a system’s voicing. The NuPrime proved to be the total opposite. In this respect, it turned out to be a reference tool by
providing a truthful sonic snapshot of upstream components.
……
Next in line was the Innersound Isis 3.5 hybrid electrostatic loudspeaker. This load has proven to be problematic for some Class D amplifiers due to its capacitive impedance and 2-ohm minimum through the upper octaves. Again, there was nothing of significance to criticize. ……..As you would expect from an electrostatic midrange and treble, transients were supremely well controlled, while the bass range was reproduced with control and full extension.
Finally, it was time for the Analysis Audio Omega. This quintessential planar speaker, an Apogee look-alike, has been a staple in my reference system for many years. It’s a 4-ohm nominal load, though it dips to around 3 ohms and demands a lot of current. In this context the NuPrime was able to generate a panoramic soundstage and believable depth perspective. Its level of micro dynamic finesse, purity of tone, resolution of individual voices in a complex mix, and rhythmic drive kept me listening late into the night.
……
The NuPrime Evo STA caught me by surprise. I didn’t expect any amp at this price point, let alone a Class D amplifier, to be capable of such exquisite musicality. Mated with a compatible speaker load, it is deserving of an enthusiastic endorsement. It will not be leaving my system any time soon.”