I’m planning on buying the Soncoz LA-QXD1 DAC. Yeah, agree the DA-9 is a way more convenient product. If I went with the Hypex amp, I’d likely wind up adjusting the volume on my source (an iPad mini) or the DAC, so definitely not as convenient for me. So I’ve been debating whether it’s worth the inconvenience (and the much higher price tag) to hear an NCore amp, after reading so many good things about them.
You may already be aware, but, FYI, Audiophonics does make a Hypex NC122MP amp with RCA inputs. That said, Hypex recommends XLR inputs for all its units, even when using with a source with RCA outputs. Audiophonics makes a balanced version too—both are the same price and shipping to US (at least to where I live) is around $50, so about $500 all-in with taxes and shipping. Power button is on the front too.