NCore / Hypex (premium Class-D modules)
Hypex NCore is a premium Class-D amplifier module used in high-end audiophile amps (Mola Mola, Bel Canto, some Marantz). Reference-tier Class-D that shows the technology can compete at any price. Well above budget territory ($3000+ complete amp).
Hypex is a Dutch amplifier module manufacturer. Their NCore family (NC252, NC500, NC1200) is the premium reference Class-D that’s been used by high-end brands for over a decade.
Why it matters for hi-fi conversation
NCore proved that Class-D could compete at any price tier – not just budget. NCore-based amps at $5000-$15000 measure among the best amplifiers ever made and are used as reference tools in the audio review industry.
Budget alternative
The TPA3255 chip with proper PFFB circuit design achieves 90%+ of NCore’s performance at 10% of the cost. The 3e Audio A7 is our recommended budget-audiophile step in this direction.
Purifi alternative
Purifi is a newer Danish module manufacturer with even better measurements than NCore, driving the current wave of $10k+ high-end Class-D.
Ready to see this in action?
Browse honest, hands-on reviews of budget hi-fi gear that puts these concepts to the test.
