Description
Metric — A Visible Instrument of Power Metric is not conceived as a conventional amplifier, but as an instrument — one that reveals the energy of music as clearly as it reproduces it. Designed and built entirely in-house by IOM, it unites precision engineering, material integrity, and sensory experience in a single, deliberate form.
At its heart lies the large analog power meter that defines the amplifier’s presence. This is not a decorative gesture, but a true dynamic instrument that displays the instantaneous power delivered to the loudspeakers. Its movement follows the rhythm, weight, and breath of the music, adding a visual dimension that deepens immersion and strengthens the listener’s connection to the performance. The music is not only heard — it is seen unfolding in real time.
To achieve this natural responsiveness, the meter mechanism was developed to IOM’s own specifications. The custom coil avoids the slow attack and decay common to commercial long-needle meters, allowing the needle to move with speed, fluidity, and musical coherence, even at low listening levels. A logarithmic scale preserves dynamic expression across the full power range, while impedance calibration ensures that what is seen reflects what is truly delivered. A precision LED backpanel, developed with a specialist partner, provides carefully tuned colour and selectable brightness for optimal visibility in any environment.
The enclosure is sculpted from solid aluminium, CNC-machined from panels of 20 mm, 6 mm, and 5 mm thickness and finished in clear anodised aluminium. The 20 mm front panel conveys permanence and precision, while the absence of visible fasteners creates a seamless, architectural form. Elevated on a carefully engineered foot, the chassis appears to float, allowing the meter to remain calm, centered, and unmistakably alive.
Within, Metric is built around the Hypex NCX500 architecture, supported by a 1200 W power supply that provides effortless headroom and unwavering control. Its character is defined not by figures, but by experience: transparent, composed, and dynamically unrestrained. An in-house buffer stage based on OPA1656 op-amps, powered by ultra-low-noise regulators and dual discrete supplies, preserves signal purity and stability, supported by precision components where they matter most.
Cooling is achieved through silent natural convection, allowing the amplifier to remain only hand-warm while ensuring long-term reliability without mechanical noise. Integration is equally considered: switchable balanced and unbalanced inputs provide flexibility, while a 12 V trigger input and output enable automatic power on/off control and system synchronisation. A discreet front soft-touch power control offers manual interaction without disturbing the visual stillness of the design.
Each Metric amplifier is individually calibrated before delivery, ensuring that both performance and visual indication reflect real-world operation. Despite its performance, standby consumption remains only 0.3 W.
Key Features Exceptional sound quality with Hypex NCX500 architecture, 1200 W power supply, and an in-house OPA1656 buffer stage with ultra-low-noise regulation
Large dynamic analog power meter with custom coil and logarithmic response, enhanced by automotive-grade display engineering and precision LED backlighting, visually strengthening musical dynamics and immersion CNC-machined solid aluminium enclosure with 20 mm front panel, seamless screw-free design, and refined floating chassis
This product is made/assembled & shipped within 15 work days after ordering.
Price is displayed per set (2 pcs) without VAT/BTW. If applicable this will be added at checkout.
Gerard ten Berge –
Two weeks ago, I received the Metric 500 monoblocks, series 3 and 4.
And after listening intensively, I’m extremely satisfied.
From the moment IOM began developing the Metric 500, I’ve followed all the developments.
This has given me insight into the dedication and precision with which this cutting-edge technology was applied to create a truly high-end Class D monoblock amplifier.
After two weeks of playing with my Acoustic Energy Corinium speakers, I can only say what a soundstage and beautiful definition they deliver in every type of music!
The large VU meters only enhance the beautifully finished aluminum housing.
In short, what a beautiful and, above all, superb sound the Metric 500 delivers.