By: Dipin Sehdev
Advance Paris is quickly becoming one of my favorite amplifier companies, not just for how their products sound, but for how thoughtfully they’re designed. From industrial design to feature sets, they strike a balance that many brands miss: performance without overcomplication. The new NOVA series might be their most compelling lineup yet, and it clearly shows a company that understands how people actually live with audio today.
At the heart of NOVA are two integrated amplifiers, the A-i130 and A-i190. These are complete system hubs designed for modern living rooms, combining amplification, DAC, DSP, connectivity, and expansion into a single chassis.
A Smarter Approach: Modular by Design
One of the things I appreciate most about Advance Paris is its modular philosophy. Instead of forcing users to pay for features they may never use, NOVA allows you to add functionality as needed.
Want streaming? Add the A-NTC module.
Need Bluetooth? Add the A-BTC.
Prefer a tactile control experience? Add the rotary remote.
This approach feels refreshingly practical. You’re not locked into a bloated all-in-one solution; you’re building your system based on your actual needs.
Built for Modern Systems
There are two features that, in my opinion, are non-negotiable in modern audio systems and Advance Paris has both:
1. Built-in DSP (This is a must)
DSP is no longer optional. Real rooms are messy, and without correction, even great gear underperforms.
The NOVA amplifiers include:
- 4-channel DSP
- Independent EQ for left, right, and dual subwoofers
- Configurable crossover
This is a huge deal. You’re getting system-level control that would normally require external processors.
2. HDMI eARC (Also a must)
If you’re integrating audio into a living room, HDMI eARC is essential.
Both NOVA amplifiers include:
- HDMI eARC for TV integration
This means:
- One cable to your TV
- Proper lip sync
- Seamless daily use
This alone makes NOVA far more practical than many traditional hi-fi systems.
Hybrid Design with Real Power
Both amplifiers use a hybrid architecture, combining:
- ECC81 tube preamp stage (for warmth and musicality)
- Class AB amplification (for control and power)
The A-i130 delivers 130W per channel, while the A-i190 steps up to 190W, and introduces a dual-mono design with separate toroidal transformers per channel. That’s typically something you see in higher-end separates, not integrated amps.
The result is better:
- Channel separation
- Soundstage
- Dynamic headroom
Connectivity That Actually Makes Sense
Advance Paris built a system that works in real-world setups.
You get:
- Multiple digital inputs (optical + coax)
- USB with DSD support
- Phono stage (MM, and MC on A-i190)
- Subwoofer outputs (up to dual subs)
- Headphone output
And then you can expand with:
- Streaming (A-NTC)
- Bluetooth (A-BTC)
- Wireless rotary control (A-RTR)
Again, it’s about choice—not excess.
Specs, Pricing & Availability
| Model | Power | Key Features | Price (USD) | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A-i130 | 130W/ch | DSP, HDMI eARC, Tube preamp, ESS DAC, MM phono | $6,499 | May 2026 |
| A-i190 | 190W/ch | Dual-mono, DSP, HDMI eARC, Tube preamp, ESS DAC, MM/MC phono, XLR | $7,999 | May 2026 |
| A-NTC | — | Streaming module (AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Roon, etc.) | $599 | Shortly after launch |
| A-BTC | — | Bi-directional Bluetooth (aptX HD, LL, AD) | $249 | Shortly after launch |
| A-RTR | — | Rotary wireless remote | $599 | Shortly after launch |
Final Thoughts
What makes the NOVA series stand out isn’t just the specs—it’s the philosophy behind it.
- Modular instead of bloated
- Modern features without losing analog soul
- Designed for real homes, not just listening rooms
The inclusion of DSP and HDMI eARC alone puts this ahead of a huge portion of the market, especially for anyone building a system that has to coexist with a TV. Advance Paris clearly understands where audio is going and how people actually use it. It’s a blueprint for what modern hi-fi should look like.
