Nautel Launches the VX8 and VX10: The VX Series Now Reaches 10 kW
On September 1, 2026, Nautel announced two new transmitters at the top of its VX Series: the VX8 (8 kW) and the VX10 (10 kW). The VX line now runs from 150 W to 10 kW, and the new models are aimed at main, standby and N+1 FM applications. Nautel showed both at IBC (Stand 8.B73) and NAB NY, and has scheduled first shipments for Q1 2027.
A modular design built for service
Instead of one large chassis, each VX8 and VX10 is a 13 RU system made of four assemblies: a 2 RU exciter/controller, a 3 RU splitter/combiner and two 4 RU amplifiers. Each assembly can be installed and serviced separately, and with the amplifier power supplies removed, no single piece weighs more than 50 lb (22.7 kg). The complete system weighs 179 lb and fits a standard 19-inch rack, 25 inches deep at most.
Nautel also lists solderless, replaceable PA pallets and front-access washable filters among the design features.
VX8 and VX10 at a glance
VX8: 8 kW rated, 800 to 8,800 W output range, 13.5 kVA at rated output, 71% typical efficiency
VX10: 10 kW rated, 1,000 to 11,000 W output range, 16.4 kVA at rated output, 72% typical efficiency
Frequency: 87.5 to 108 MHz in 10 kHz steps, no tuning required
RF output: 1-5/8" EIA with removable field flange, 50 ohms
AC input: single phase 208/220/240 VAC, or three phase 208 VAC or 380 VAC
Cooling: about 620 CFM typical and 1,050 CFM maximum for the full system
Size: 13 RU, 19 inches wide, 25 inches maximum depth, 179 lb
Everything you expect from a VX
The VX8 and VX10 use the same direct-to-channel digital exciter as the rest of the series, with a built-in RDS encoder, SCA encoder and stereo generator. Audio inputs include two AES (XLR), analog left/right (XLR) and two wideband inputs for composite, RDS or SCA. The transmitters also accept Icecast, Shoutcast and HLS streams, with built-in audio playback and playlists and automatic switchover from a primary source to a backup.
Control and monitoring run through Nautel's HTML5 Advanced User Interface, which works on desktop, tablet and phone, along with SNMP v2c, encrypted network communications, email alarm notifications and NTP. A front panel with a 3.5-inch color display and a USB port covers local work. Orban Inside audio processing is available as an option, and both models carry Nautel's 4-year warranty with 24/7 customer support.
According to Nautel, more than 1,500 VX Series transmitters have shipped. John Whyte, Nautel's Head of Marketing and Product Strategy, said the new models carry the line's simplicity, serviceability and reliability up to 8 and 10 kW.
A note on the specifications
The figures above come from Nautel's preliminary spec sheet (Issue 1.0), and Nautel notes they are subject to change. We confirm current specifications with Nautel on every quote.
Planning a 2027 project?
Radio Gearheads is a factory-authorized Nautel dealer run by broadcast engineers. Whether you are planning a power increase, a new standby or an N+1 system, we can quote the transmitter with options, spares, RF plumbing and installation. See the Nautel VX8 and Nautel VX10 product pages, use Get A Quote, or call 1-800-992-1506.
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