NuForce V2 Amplifier FAQ
What is V2?
V2 stands for Version 2, the next generation of NuForce’s amplifier circuit board. The new board, which now serves as our amplifier line’s core component, replaces the present (V1) board, thus benefiting our customers with our ongoing research and development. The V2 board outperforms its predecessor in several respects: it lowers the noise floor by 20dB (yes, 20dB – that’s no typo) and elevates the output stage to 85% efficiency. We’ve abbreviated the current-delivery pathway in order to effectuate a 20% improvement in through-put. We have in addition leapfrogged ourselves by incorporating everything we’ve learned from our top-of-the-line Reference 9 SE amplifier into the standard amplifier board. (We rather enjoy seeing ourselves as our fiercest competitor!)
So, how does the V2 sound?
Listeners have reported that the V2 board sounded better even before we had a chance to give it a proper burn-in. In point of fact, the new board offers greater transparency, cleaner treble extension, tighter bass, lower distortion, and superior micro and macro dynamics. Many who have heard our Ref 8.5 and Ref 9 amps fitted out with the V2 board preferred the sound of these units to our Ref 9 SE with the V1 board.
Can my NuForce amplifier be upgraded to V2?
Yes. The cost of the upgrade will depend on the model.
Is NuForce upgrading its products too frequently?
That’s a fair question and one that is often asked of many audio-product designers.
We introduced our V1-based amplifier in 2005 and have made one minor update in the several models we produced within the past two years. Instead of bringing out new product models every year (a typical industry practice), we’ve provided our customers with an upgrade path. Think of our products as a platform. Each NuForce model we’ve introduced has stood at the head of its class. It’s fair to say that we are the leader in audio-amplifier technology. Further, we permit our customers to decide when and how they want to upgrade. Rest assured, your NuForce purchase will not become obsolete.
Is there a time-limit to the upgrade?
No. We do not pressure our customers. We sincerely believe that we offer a significant performance benefit and value when we introduce a new version of our technology. Take as much time as you like in auditioning any of our products.
How can I decide which model is best for my system?
In general, you should attempt to match amplifier power to your speakers’ requirements. Because we provide an upgrade path, it really isn’t necessary to purchase the most expensive model in our product line. Typically, the cost of upgrade is equal to the difference in price between models.
I just bought an amplifier with a V1 board. Had I known about V2, I would have waited. Will it cost more for me to upgrade?
It is inevitable that some customers are caught in this kind of bind. It happens in any industry. NuForce is determined to protect your investment. For example, the upgrade cost of a Reference-series product is approximately the difference between the old and new model. The Reference 9 V2’s MSRP is $1750 as compared with the Reference 9’s $1250 MSRP. Upgrading from Reference 9 to 9 V2 will cost about $500.
Why do you increase the price of your models? Why does the Reference 9 V2 cost more than the Reference 9?
We have invested significantly in the V2’s research and development. Now, with the V2 board, our standard amplifier sounds better than our top-of-the-line Reference 9 SE. If you consider the fact that Ref 9 V2 (MSRP $1750) now out performs Ref 9 SE (MSRP $2100), you will realize that we are offering superior performance at a lower price.
What should I do now that the entry level Ref 8.5 V2 outperforms my Reference 9 SE?
Not a problem. As with the rest of our amps, the Reference 9 SE can be upgraded to V2 status. Improvements will be particularly audible in the reproduction of transients. Attacks and decays will be more accurately rendered due to the extremely low ESR capacitor bank with its amazing current delivery and damping effect. The V2 version of our Ref 9 SE will remain our premier amplifier product. Note that Ref 9 V2 SE has 5 year warranty versus 3 years for other products.
Will there be a V3?
Certainly -- no question about it! Remember: the consumer who purchases a NuForce amp can always take advantage of our ceaseless R&D. It's difficult to predict if and when the V2 will give way to a successor, nor can we say what its merits will be. We certainly won't call it V3 unless it represents a substantial advance. Because our V2 board sets the bar at so high a point, it's not at all clear to us what a "substantial advance" would actually be. In any event, we strongly suspect that the V2 board will be around for a while. We're very proud of it.
