V3 Technology
What is V3?

AV3, released in October, 2009, stands for Version 3, the third generation of NuForce's amplifier technology. The new circuit board, which now serves as our amplifier line's core component, replaces the previous generations (V1 & V2), thus benefiting our customers with our ongoing research and development.
NuForce's Version 3 board differs from its V2 predecessor in several audibly significant ways. Improvements in the feedback path and overall control produce a more linear signal across a wider bandwidth (an astonishing 130KHz). Harmonic distortion and the noise floor have been significantly reduced.

So, how does the V3 sound?

The music lover will experience these developments in terms of a clearer midrange, smoother highs, greater low-end weight, and an overall sweeter presentation within a better-defined soundstage. In practical terms, these pleasures translate to extended listening without a hint of ear-fatigue. Given the V2's critically acclaimed excellence, V3's superiority stands as astonishing accomplishment. The Ref 9V3 SE, whichremains our flagship amp, offers features not found in our other models, such as a proprietary low ESR power capacitor bank, analogous to an automotive engine's turbo charger.

Why does V3 has lower gain than V2?

The V3 and V2 gain difference is 21 vs. 26dB. In most cases, it means you turn up the volume control by 5 steps increment. We believe that the V3's 21dB gain allows the system gain to provide better dynamic at lowest overall distortion (most preamp operates optimally when output is higher than 1V).

With 21dB of gain (11x voltage gain), the respective output powers based on input voltages: VinputPowerLoad
3.25V160W8 Ohm
3.15V300W4 Ohm

With 26dB of gain (i.e. V2), the amplifier can be driven to reach maximum power quickly. VinputPowerLoad
1.8V160W8 Ohm
1.75V300W4 Ohm
Note that normal listening power is around 10W to 50W and therefore a lower amplifier gain allows the preamp to operate nearer to its optimum level.

Why is there a change in power rating from V2 to V3?

V3 has 35W more power at 4 ohm but 25W less at 8 ohm. This is a side effect of the adjustment we made. Most speakers, even though spec at 8 ohm, operates with average impedance of 6 ohms so the change should not matter. Furthermore, the power rating difference should have no effect on listening experience whosoever. Peak power is supplied by the capacitor bank and the average listening power is around 30W.

Can my NuForce amplifier be upgraded to V3?

Yes. The cost of the upgrade will depend on the model.

Is NuForce upgrading its products too frequently?

That's a fair question often asked of many audio-product designers. We introduced our V1-based amplifier in 2005 and V2 in 2007. 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 no exaggeration 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 will never 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 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 V2 board. Had I known about V3, 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. If you purchased a new (not demo or used stocks) V2 based amplifier during July to September 2009 (3 months prior to V3 release) , please contact Nuforce about discount for upgrade.

Why do you charge more for V1 upgrade to V3?

Nuforce amplifier technology upgrade program follows similar business model as software upgrades. The ugprade price from each successive version is very moderate and therefore there is a 50% surcharge for V1 to V3 upgrade.

Will there be a V4?

Certainly -- no question about it! Remember: the consumer who purchases a NuForce amp can always take advantage of our R&D. It's difficult to predict if and when the V3 will give way to a successor, nor can we say what its successor's merits will be. We certainly won't call it V4 unless it represents a substantial advance. Because our V3 board sets the bar higher than the award winning V2 based amplifier, it's not at all clear at this time what a "substantial advance" would be. In any event, we strongly suspect that the V3 board will be around for a long while. We're very proud of it.