What is V3?

V3, 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:
Vinput   Power    Load
3.25V    160W     8 Ohm
3.15V    300W     4 Ohm

With 26dB of gain (i.e. V2), the amplifier can be driven to reach maximum power quickly.
Vinput   Power    Load
1.8V    160W     8 Ohm
1.75V    300W     4 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.