Reference LE Class Power Amplifier
The ST-10 amplifier is NuPrime's Reference LE (near-reference) power amplifier for listeners who require a reference-class amplifier at a somewhat lesser power rating of a still very muscular 2 x 150W at 8 ohms and 4 ohms.
NuPrime's sonic character stands well apart from – and, indeed, above – the soft, cushy sound we often associate with most tubed amplification and the dry, clinically edgy sound we often associate with solid-state and switching technology. Rarely does an amp achieve an ideal balance of richly textured timbres and harmonics, bottom-end authority, startling dynamics, exquisite low-level detail, and a fully revealed, fully dimensional sound stage against a backdrop of mile-deep silence.
"Best Digital Power Amplifier I've Heard to Date"
The ST-10 won a Product of the Year Award for 2015 from The Absolute Sound magazine. According to Steve Stone, "Over the years I've reviewed and used plenty of digital power amplifiers from Bel Canto, Wyred4Sound, April Music, and others, and I appreciate what a well-designed model can bring to a system. And it happens that the ST-10 is the best digital power amplifier I've heard to date."
Fourth Generation V4 Amplifier Module
The "LE" of Reference LE designates near-reference-class performance. The fourth generation (V4 amplifier module) of this patented amplifier design outperforms its predecessor in several aspects, including lowering the noise floor by an astounding 20dB and elevating the output stage to 85 percent efficiency.
The V4 amp module also offers shortened circuit pathways, resulting in a 20 percent improvement in through-put, along with improved reliability in a no-load condition and short circuit protection, increased output current drive capability for low impedance speakers, increased switching frequency to 600 KHz and an improved musical sampling rate, and improved S/N ratio and dynamic range.
New Linear Power Supply
The ST-10 boasts a new linear power supply with a high-efficiency toroidal transformer. Reduced high-frequency noise and strengthened low-frequency performance are two of its virtues. Signal path avoids cross-linking capacitors, thus achieving a frequency response at DC level for pure musical enjoyment.
Tube Amp Sound Without the Drawbacks
The ST-10 incorporates enhanced even-order harmonic (H2) circuitry resembling the most attractive features of tube-amp sound without its drawbacks and limitations. The results of all of this technology include a vast soundstage, wide, lightning-fast dynamics, plus ultra-low distortion and noise. Music emerges from a pristine background, with delicate details and nuances intact.