Advance Paris A10 APEX – Hybrid Integrated Amplifier (130W x2, ESS9018, HDMI eARC)
The Advance Paris A10 APEX is the sweet spot of the APEX anniversary line: a muscular 130 W x2 (8 Ω) hybrid integrated that marries tube preamplification (ECC81/12AT7) with Class A/B High-Bias output for vivid midrange texture, scale, and control. It adds the modern conveniences serious systems demand - HDMI eARC for TV audio, AMP-IN (home-theater bypass), MM phono, balanced XLR, dual subwoofer outputs, and an ESS9018 DAC with hi-res PCM 24/192 and DSD64/128 over USB. A substantial 380 VA toroidal transformer underpins effortless dynamics, while measured performance - THD+N 0.045% (90 W), SNR 106 dB, 20 Hz–80 kHz (±1 dB) - keeps noise low and detail high.
Why A10 APEX:
- True hybrid sound: Tube sweetness up front, solid-state slam at the outputs - ideal if you want engagement without giving up grip on the bass.
- TV done right: HDMI eARC (PCM stereo) with CEC lets your TV wake the amp and control volume from the TV remote - no juggling inputs.
- Built for growth: AMP-IN for HT bypass, Pre-Out, dual Sub-Outs (mono/stereo), Trigger In/Out, and A/B speaker terminals make it easy to expand.
- Modern digital & vinyl: ESS9018 DAC with USB-B for computer/streamer, plus an MM phono stage - plug in a turntable and go.
- Anniversary edition aesthetics: Limited 30th-Edition black finish with white VU meters gives the classic Advance Paris look a stealth twist.
What it’s great at:
- Two-channel rooms that double as cinema: Route TV via eARC for shows and films, then switch to your streamer/turntable for focused stereo.
- Systems that need real bass integration: Two sub outputs (selectable mono or stereo) simplify placement and phase alignment.
- Balanced sources & longer runs: The XLR input and XLR-capable pre-outs on higher APEX models make system matching straightforward; the A10 gives you XLR in today, upgrade latitude tomorrow.
Everyday usability:
- High-Bias switch engages a richer Class-A-like region for low-level listening; flip back for peak headroom.
- A-BTC Bluetooth (optional) adds aptX Adaptive Low Latency and even Bluetooth headphone support for silent nights.
- A/B speaker terminals support a second pair (office/porch) without a separate amp.
A10 APEX Full Specifications:
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Output Power @ 8 Ω: 2 × 130 W RMS
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Output Power @ 4 Ω: 2 × 198 W RMS
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Frequency Response (±1 dB): 20 Hz – 80 kHz
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THD+N: 0.045% (90 W)
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Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 106 dB
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Tubes (preamplification): ECC81 / 12AT7
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DAC: ESS9018
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Amplification Class: Class A/B with High-Bias
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Power Supply: Toroidal transformer
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Mains Voltage: 115/230 V, 50/60 Hz
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Dimensions (W × H × D): 430 × 175 × 351 mm
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Net / Gross Weight: 12.9 kg / 16.3 kg
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Connectivity & Features: HDMI eARC input with CEC; AMP-IN (home-theater bypass); MM phono input (RIAA); analog XLR input; dual subwoofer outputs (mono or stereo); trigger sockets; multiple digital inputs including USB-B for computer; optional A-BTC Bluetooth (also enables Bluetooth-headphone listening).
A10 APEX Q&A:
- What type of amplifier is the A10 APEX?
- A hybrid integrated amplifier: tubes (ECC81/12AT7) for preamplification and solid-state Class A/B power amplification with High-Bias.
- How much power does it deliver?
- 2 × 130 W RMS into 8 Ω and 2 × 198 W RMS into 4 Ω.
- Does it include a phono stage for turntables?
- Yes. There’s a built-in MM phono stage with RIAA equalization.
- Can I connect my TV via HDMI?
- Yes. The HDMI eARC input with CEC lets you route TV audio to the amp and control volume from the TV remote.
- Is Bluetooth built in?
- Bluetooth is available via the optional A-BTC dongle, which also enables Bluetooth-headphone listening.
- Can I integrate it with a home-theater receiver?
- Yes. The AMP-IN (home-theater bypass) inputs let the A10 APEX power your main L/R speakers in an AV setup.
- Does it support one or two subwoofers?
- It provides dual subwoofer outputs that can be set to mono or stereo for seamless bass integration.
- What digital-to-analog converter (DAC) does it use?
- An ESS9018 DAC handles high-quality digital conversion.
Where A10 APEX sits in the APEX range
The A10 APEX slots above A8 for more power, balanced input, and dual sub outputs, and below A12’s dual-mono muscle and MM/MC phono. All three share the APEX design language and HDMI eARC convenience. If you want a do-it-all stereo hub that handles vinyl, TV, and future upgrades with authority, the A10 is the range’s most versatile choice. Shop and compare the Advance Paris APEX lineup here.
