Electronics

NuForce Icon (Integrated Desktop Audio Amplifier, Silver Color). The NuForce Icon is an audiophile-grade Integrated Desktop Audio Amplifier featuring two 12-watt outputs, a 3.5-mm stereo input for connection to an iPod or other portable device, a USB cable for operation with a PC or Mac, and standard RCA inputs for employing the Icon as the heart of a conventional audio system. For the headphone enthusiast, the Icon also offers a high-performance headphone output. Of particular interest to the computer user, the Icon’s line-out functions as a PC or Mac USB-to-analog audio converter or can also be used as a connection to a subwoofer. With the same patented technology that has won a string of prestigious awards, the tiny Icon brings NuForce’s celebrated sound quality to the music lover’s desktop. Applications: 1) As the core of a desktop audio system, the Icon connects to an Ipod, CD player, PC or Mac. 2) Via the best, jitter-free USB technology, the Icon operates as a USB DAC for converting a PC or Mac’s audio signal to high-quality analog sound. 3) For optimal headphone performance, the Icon includes a discrete, high-performance headphone amplifier. 4) For operation as an audiophile-grade preamplifier, the Icon’s linestage can be connected to a power amp or active speakers. 5) As a high-quality auxiliary power amp in a surround-sound setup, the Icon can be used to drive tweeters or rear-channel speakers.
Customer Review: Fantastic Sound
I purchased the Nuforce Icon to use in my office to play music from the computer or the radio. I use a Tivoli Audio Model One as a tuner with the interconnect going to the headphone outlet. The PC is connected via a USB cable to the Nuforce USB coonection which has it’s own internal DAC. The speakers are Tekton with Fostek single full range drivers.

The sound from lossless FLAC files ripped from my favorite CD’s is incredible. It is truly approaching high end audiophile quality sound. People remark that it sounds like a live performance.

The little Icon integrated amplifier would also be perfect for a bedroom or main system with efficient speakers.
Customer Review: Astonishing sound and value
I’ve owned three of the little ‘tripath’ amps, two from Sonic Impact and one Kingrex. This is dramatically better than any of them. Aside from having a wonderful fit and finish and WAY more features (3 inputs, dac, output for sub or bi-amping) this things sounds incredible. I could live with one of these as my main stereo amp. This is an instant classic. I’m buying a second one to try bi-amping. By all means get the optional 2-meter speaker cable.

Tags: audio components, audio, electronics audio, digital audio system, digital audio