The Audiolab 9000N Network Streamer is very well built however, I really struggled to enjoy it.

The Audiolab 9000N is positioned as a reference-grade network streamer and DAC, prioritizing network playback quality over broad digital input versatility. Audiolab’s design intent is clear: create a stable, high-resolution streaming front end that integrates seamlessly into both Audiolab systems and third-party separates. In practice, however, this singular focus also limits the unit’s flexibility. By excluding traditional digital inputs, the 9000N commits entirely to streaming duties. For users seeking a central digital hub, this narrow scope may feel restrictive, especially at its premium price point. If you are interested in purchasing the Audiolab units in this review please consider using my All Elite Audio affiliate links: https://alleliteaudio.com/products/au... • If you wish to join the channel please click here:    / @oldguyhifi   • Community Post Playlists:    • Post   All of my reviews are completely subjective. I do not accept payment for reviews. *DISCLOSURE: Some of the links below contain affiliate links from Skylabs Audio, Amazon and/or eBay. If you purchase with those links, I do receive a small commission but, it doesn't affect your price or your ability to return something. My Reference Set up includes: • Advance Paris A12 Classic: https://shop.skylabsaudio.com?sca_ref... • Black Ice Audio F22 KT88 Integrated Tube Amp: https://blackiceaudio.com/integrated-... Speakers: • Wharfedale Diamond 12.4 Speakers: https://amzn.to/3WberDp • Martin Logan Impression 11 ESL: https://www.martinlogan.com/en/produc... • Q-Acoustics 3030c Stand mount speakers: https://amzn.to/4h0SYXQ DACs: • LAIV Harmony R2R DAC: https://www.laiv.audio/harmony-dac • Douk Audio Q100 Fully Balanced Desktop DAC: https://doukaudio.com/products/douk-a... • Singxer SDA-6 PRO2 AKM DAC: https://aoshida-audio.com/products/si... DDC/Re-Clockers • Singzer SU-2: https://apos.audio/products/singxer-s... • Matrix X-SPDIF3: https://apos.audio/products/matrix-x-... Streamers: • Audirvana is my primary streaming platform. 30 day free trial here: https://audirvana.com/try/ • Cambridge MXN10: https://skylabsaudio.com/products/cam... • Shanling SM 1.3: https://forte-distribution.com/produc... • Aiyima HYFIOO DM100 Streamer: https://www.aiyima.com/products/hyfio... CD Transports/Players • Shanling ET-3: https://forte-distribution.com/produc... • ONIX Zenith XST20 Top-loading SACD/CD transport: https://forte-distribution.com/produc... Analog: • Fluance RT-84 turntable: https://amzn.to/4aMuZrt. • IsoAcoustics zaZen I Isolation Platform: https://skylabsaudio.com/products/iso... • Audio Technica AT-OC9XEN MC Cart: https://amzn.to/3C0PCna Accessories/Cables: • IsoAcoustics Gaia Series II Speakers & Subwoofer Isolation feet: https://skylabsaudio.com/products/iso... • IsoAcoustics Iso-Puck Series Acoustic Isolators: • All cables are from Wire World: https://www.theaudiolegacy.com/collec... Desktop gear: • FiiO K17 Headphone amp/DAC: https://apos.audio/products/fiio-k15-... • Cambridge Audio SX60: https://amzn.to/4omnfDs • ISOAcoustics Aperta Series Stands: https://skylabsaudio.com/products/iso... • Sound Solver, Large Desktop HiFi Audio Rack: https://sound-solver.com/products/des... Chapters 00:00 Intro 01:04 Product Overview 03:37 Front Panel & Display 06:21 Rear Panel and Inside 08:24 DAC overview 09:31 Analog Output 11:57 App & Software Overview 14:25 Comparisons 20:29 Final Thoughts 21:48 Outro