Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.

Product Strengths

  • Similar feature count to the SA20, at a lower price point
  • Includes five analogue inputs, one for MM phono and one 3.5mm auxiliary input, plus three digital inputs
  • A composure and subtle ebullience makes all kinds of music a pleasure to listen to
  • The midrange picks up on the innate nature of instruments, both acoustic and electronic, very well
  • The phono stage turns out to be the star of the show, offering a magical quality with the right material and delicacy in the treble

Product Considerations

  • The low end can be rather ponderous at times, especially with larger speakers
  • There are issues with timing and dynamics, especially via analogue inputs
  • Bass is ill-defined via analogue inputs
  • Lower power with poorer regulation, compared to the SA20
  • Bass takes on a slightly soporific quality when paired with PMC speakers

Takeaway:

The Arcam SA10 is a feature-rich amplifier that is an alluring musical companion, especially with vinyl records. It offers a pleasing sound and is a solid performer for the price, making it a good choice for people wanting good value.

How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we  discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.

Compared to their other products

We think it's helpful to understand how this product fits into the brand's full lineup (below). To learn more about these products, visit the brand's page.

Arcam AVR5

  • Positioning: Entry-level model in Arcam's AVR lineup.
  • Description: Offers solid performance with Class AB amplification, delivering 60W per channel with all channels driven. Features HDMI 2.0b connectivity, which supports 4K video but lacks the 8K capabilities and advanced gaming features found in the AVR11, AVR21, and AVR31.

Arcam AVR11

  • Positioning: Mid-tier model, positioned above the AVR5.
  • Description: Enhances the home cinema experience with 7 channels of Class AB amplification, each delivering 85W with all channels driven. Introduces HDMI 2.1 connectivity, enabling 8K video passthrough at 60fps and 4K at 120fps, features not available in the AVR5.

Arcam AVR21

  • Positioning: Higher mid-tier model, above the AVR11.
  • Description: Provides increased power with 7 channels of Class AB amplification at 110W per channel, all channels driven. Supports 16-channel decoding for immersive audio formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D, offering more advanced processing capabilities compared to the AVR11's 12-channel decoding.

Arcam AVR31

  • Positioning: Flagship AV receiver in Arcam's lineup.
  • Description: Stands out with 7 channels of Class G amplification, delivering 100W per channel with all channels driven, providing higher efficiency and dynamic power reserves. While it shares the 16-channel decoding capability with the AVR21, the Class G amplification offers superior performance and efficiency over the Class AB amplification in the AVR21.

Arcam AV41

  • Positioning: Dedicated AV processor without built-in amplification.
  • Description: Designed for those who prefer using external power amplifiers, offering 16 channels of decoding for formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D. Lacks built-in amplification but provides 16 balanced XLR outputs for high-quality connections to external amplifiers.
See all the brand's products

Read the reviews

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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer's notes

The design of the HDA range draws upon all of Arcam's experience as one of the UK's most respected audio companies, to produce Arcam's best performing range of audio products yet – using the best quality components and engineering practices, the HDA range is designed and built to give you years of listening enjoyment.
  • Power Output: 50W per channel
  • Total harmonic distortion + noise: 0.003%
  • Analogue Inputs: 5 (including phono)
  • Digital Inputs: 3
  • DAC: 32-bit Sabre ESS9016K2M
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Average Price
$501-$1,000
Used Products
174
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
73
 of 600+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products
22
Founded
1976

Our take on the brand

Arcam is a hifi brand known for its unique Class G amplifier technology, which uses multiple power supplies that switch based on demand to achieve both high efficiency and pure Class A sound at low volumes. Their AV receivers and processors stand out for their use of Dirac Live Bass Control technology, which precisely optimizes subwoofers to improve in-room performance and reduce room modes.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi
Brand Page
Most data on ExtremeHiFi is proprietary—researched and reviewed after thousands of hours of loving labor. We archive our site's data and its pages on Archive.org and take legal action against those repurposing the data. We also fingerprint data to know when text and numbers came from us first.
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What if you spend a bit more?

250i v2
2400
2400
/
8
Reviews
MOON
MOON by Simaudio is known for their warm and natural "MOON sound," achieved through their proprietary Lynx circuit that eliminates global-feedback loop in their amplifiers. Their products feature fully balanced circuitry and customizable interfaces, with designs that minimize noise and distortion while revealing intricate audio details without harshness.
Check on Amazon
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Open, neutral, and extremely rewarding sound quality
  • Excellent phono stage and headphone amplifier
  • Beautifully made with a solid build quality
  • Transparent sound allows the listener to shape the system's character
  • Integrated amp can be partnered to double down on transparency or to shape the system you want

Product Considerations

  • Remote control can be a bit difficult to use in low light
  • Offers less functionality compared to some rivals at the same price point
  • Some reviewers found certain performances to be slightly cool
  • Volume adjustments with the remote control could be more sophisticated

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The MOON 250i v2 sounds more open than the MOON 600i v2
  • The MOON 250i V2 is not as tactile in the treble region, when compared to Naim Nait XS 3
  • The MOON 250i V2 has more bite in the treble region, when compared to Exposure 3510
  • The Pass Labs amplifier has a more transparent—involving sound, when compared to the MOON 250i V2

Takeaway: The MOON 250i v2 is a well-made amplifier that delivers transparent sound quality suitable for various audio systems and listening preferences. It is a great choice for those looking for quality audio reproduction without needing all the latest digital features.

Video review

Our take on the brand

MOON by Simaudio is known for their warm and natural "MOON sound," achieved through their proprietary Lynx circuit that eliminates global-feedback loop in their amplifiers. Their products feature fully balanced circuitry and customizable interfaces, with designs that minimize noise and distortion while revealing intricate audio details without harshness.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
250i v2
page
Product Page
SV-500MK
1499
1499
/
2
Reviews
Vincent
Vincent Audio specializes in hybrid amplifiers that combine tubes and transistors, with their flagship models using military-grade tubes rated for 10,000 hours and Russian tubes for pre-amplification. Their amplifiers feature unique engineering choices like the BestPentode circuit and switchable Class A/AB operation, all designed to deliver a harmonious blend of subtle vocal reproduction and powerful rock stage dynamics.
Check on Amazon
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Builds upon the foundation of its predecessor, the SV-500, by adding HDMI and Bluetooth connectivity
  • Features a hybrid vacuum tube and solid-state design, combining tube warmth with solid-state power
  • Integrated DAC supports digital input signals, and a built-in Bluetooth module supports modern codecs like aptX and AAC
  • Offers versatility by functioning as a standalone preamplifier or DAC, in addition to being an integrated amplifier

Product Considerations

  • The omission of a phono pre-amplifier is a mistake
  • Absence of a subwoofer output feels like another lost opportunity
  • The trademark Vincent porthole that allows one to see inside the amplifier and the glowing tubes is also not part of the package

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Vincent Audio SV-737: The SV-500 MK may not offer the power of the SV-737, but 50 watts might be enough for a lot high-sensitivity bookshelf and floor standing loudspeakers

Takeaway: The SV-500 MK is a versatile amplifier with modern features like HDMI and Bluetooth, combined with the classic warmth of tubes. Its hybrid design and multiple functionalities make it worth considering for those seeking a balance of old and new.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Vincent Audio specializes in hybrid amplifiers that combine tubes and transistors, with their flagship models using military-grade tubes rated for 10,000 hours and Russian tubes for pre-amplification. Their amplifiers feature unique engineering choices like the BestPentode circuit and switchable Class A/AB operation, all designed to deliver a harmonious blend of subtle vocal reproduction and powerful rock stage dynamics.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
SV-500MK
page
Product Page
A25
1499
1499
/
6
Reviews
Arcam
Arcam is a hifi brand known for its unique Class G amplifier technology, which uses multiple power supplies that switch based on demand to achieve both high efficiency and pure Class A sound at low volumes. Their AV receivers and processors stand out for their use of Dirac Live Bass Control technology, which precisely optimizes subwoofers to improve in-room performance and reduce room modes.
Check on Amazon
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Enough power to drive many speakers.
  • A comprehensive selection of inputs, including analog, digital, USB-C, and phono
  • Built-in DAC supports high-resolution audio.
  • Features aptX Adaptive Bluetooth connectivity
  • A refined, civilized sound that is almost impossible to provoke into sounding hard or forward

Product Considerations

  • Lacks HDMI input
  • No internal bass management or a dedicated subwoofer output
  • The lip at the back of the top panel makes connecting cables harder than it needs to be
  • Some reviews suggest the lack of network connectivity is a drawback
  • The digital outputs are disabled by factory default and must be enabled in the settings menu

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Audiolab 7000A: The A25 sounds more confident and exhibits greater control over difficult-to-drive speakers, though the 7000A has an HDMI port
  • Vs Yamaha 1000A/2000A: While the reviewer prefers the sound of the A25, both Yamaha integrators are easier to live with day-to-day and allow for more flexibility in user control
  • Vs Advance Paris A7: The A25 gives more impact and weight to the bass line, while the Advance delivers a more detailed account of everything within the track, and the A25 focuses on the bigger picture, so to speak, with more punch and scale

Takeaway: The Arcam A25 is a great-sounding integrated amplifier with enough power to drive a variety of loudspeakers, offering a wide range of connectivity options for different sources. It is an amplifier with broad appeal and useful features that make using it enjoyable.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Arcam is a hifi brand known for its unique Class G amplifier technology, which uses multiple power supplies that switch based on demand to achieve both high efficiency and pure Class A sound at low volumes. Their AV receivers and processors stand out for their use of Dirac Live Bass Control technology, which precisely optimizes subwoofers to improve in-room performance and reduce room modes.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
A25
page
Product Page
iDSD Diablo 2
1299
1299
/
25
Reviews
iFi
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Check on Amazon
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Delivers a vividly detailed and balanced sound, handling complicated mixes with skill
  • Able to extract a lot of information from digital audio files with apparent ease
  • A volume lock prevents accidental volume adjustments when the device is in a pocket or bag
  • Extensive specification including Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless compatibility and multiple inputs/outputs for versatile connectivity

Product Considerations

  • Some reviewers feel the device is not very pocket-friendly due to its size and sharp edges, making it better suited as a transportable—rather than a truly portable—device
  • The gain is set too high, making precise volume control difficult, especially with sensitive IEMs
  • Using IEMatch adds output impedance, which can negatively affect the tonal balance and dynamics of some IEMs
  • The length of the included USB-C cable is short, making it difficult to position the device on a desk

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the iDSD Diablo 1, the Diablo 2 offers slight sonic improvements and better build quality, but at a higher price
  • Compared to the iDSD Signature, the iDSD Signature is considered by some to offer a better result for less money, with a more realistic instrument and vocal timbre, larger soundstage, and customizable features like crossfeed and bass boost
  • Compared to the FiiO Q7, the iDSD Diablo 2 has a vivid sound, where the FiiO Q7 has a smooth and wide sound

Takeaway: The iDSD Diablo 2 is a powerful and versatile DAC/amp that enhances headphone listening with its detailed sound and extensive features. It is a good choice for users who want a high-quality audio experience on the go or at their desk.

Video review

Our take on the brand

iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
iDSD Diablo 2
page
Product Page

What else competes at this price?

A5
699
/
Released
2023
Arcam
The ARCAM A5 is for those intimate listening experiences with your favourite music. The "A" in ARCAM stands for Amplification - this is our core competence. The A5 is the latest in more than 45 years of amplifier design and manufacture, going back to our first product in 1976 - the A&R Cambridge A60 amplifier.
Check on Amazon
Arcam is a hifi brand known for its unique Class G amplifier technology, which uses multiple power supplies that switch based on demand to achieve both high efficiency and pure Class A sound at low volumes. Their AV receivers and processors stand out for their use of Dirac Live Bass Control technology, which precisely optimizes subwoofers to improve in-room performance and reduce room modes.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Pleasant, smooth, and relaxed playback
  • More insight and tightness in the music
  • Much insight into sound and musical structure
  • A fresh and modern-looking product with a clean and unfussy exterior, which looks simple yet elegant
  • Manages a difficult balancing act superbly—forgiving enough not to emphasise the shortcomings of limited partnering equipment, yet still having the insight and transparency to make the most of more capable signals

Product Considerations

  • The front panel display lacks crispness due to the 'frosted' finish
  • The speaker terminals don't offer a great deal of space
  • The back panel itself shows a certain amount of flexibility, which is a little worrying in terms of longevity
  • The power on paper is a little optimistic

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Atoll IN50: The Atoll plays a bit bigger, but Arcam gives more insight and tightness
  • Vs Cambridge Audio Azur 840A: The Arcam A5's midrange and voice reproduction that the Cambridge just couldn't quite match

Takeaway: The Arcam A5 is a well-rounded performer that plays music enjoyably without getting in the way and is affordable, feature-rich and uncomplicated. It is a great amp for someone looking for a balance of performance and features.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Arcam is a hifi brand known for its unique Class G amplifier technology, which uses multiple power supplies that switch based on demand to achieve both high efficiency and pure Class A sound at low volumes. Their AV receivers and processors stand out for their use of Dirac Live Bass Control technology, which precisely optimizes subwoofers to improve in-room performance and reduce room modes.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
A5
Page
Product Page
A10MKII
599
/
Released
2023
Rotel
The A10MKII Integrated Amplifier offers the perfect combination of power and style for the music lover seeking to elevate their listening experience.
Check on Amazon
Rotel is a family-owned hifi brand that maintains control over its entire manufacturing process, including producing their own custom toroidal transformers for superior audio performance. Through their Balanced Design Concept and Michi high-end line, Rotel focuses on long-term product development cycles rather than frequent launches, emphasizing genuine performance improvements through careful component selection and circuit design.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Exceptional build quality with a robust aluminum facade
  • Delivers 40 watts per channel of clean, musical power in pure Class AB
  • Characterized by natural tonal balance, excellent micro-dynamics, and precise imaging
  • Offers versatile analog connectivity with 5 RCA inputs, a dedicated MM phono stage, a 3.5mm auxiliary input, and tape output
  • Delivers excellent value for money and simple, intuitive operation

Product Considerations

  • Lacks digital inputs, which maintains signal purity
  • Does not have a headphone output
  • Power output may not suit very large rooms

Takeaway: The Rotel A10MKII offers pure analog amplification with musicality and engaging sound, making it great for both new and experienced audiophiles. Its clean sound and quality build make it a compelling choice for enjoying music.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Rotel is a family-owned hifi brand that maintains control over its entire manufacturing process, including producing their own custom toroidal transformers for superior audio performance. Through their Balanced Design Concept and Michi high-end line, Rotel focuses on long-term product development cycles rather than frequent launches, emphasizing genuine performance improvements through careful component selection and circuit design.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
A10MKII
Page
Product Page
X-i50 BT
799
/
Released
Advance Paris
The X-i50BT, with its resolutely audiophile design, allows connection of numerous analog sources including the possibility to use a turntable.
Check on Amazon
Advance Paris is known for integrating tube preamps with solid-state amplification, delivering a warm and dynamic sound that rivals more expensive brands like McIntosh, while offering rare features like HDMI ARC connectivity in their stereo amplifiers. Their products stand out with illuminated VU meters and dual-mono designs using separate toroidal transformers for each channel, while providing high-end features like built-in DACs and phono stages at mid-range prices.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent sound quality due to class A type technology
  • A fair selection of analogue inputs, including a turntable input
  • Stylish design with a perspex front fascia and steel case
  • Detailed and engaging sound
  • Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming from smart devices

Product Considerations

  • USB input only offers MP3 playback
  • Class A type technology runs at higher temperatures

Takeaway: The X-i50BT is a good amp that can drive speakers well and sounds great. It has many ways to connect devices, making it a useful addition to any audio setup.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Advance Paris is known for integrating tube preamps with solid-state amplification, delivering a warm and dynamic sound that rivals more expensive brands like McIntosh, while offering rare features like HDMI ARC connectivity in their stereo amplifiers. Their products stand out with illuminated VU meters and dual-mono designs using separate toroidal transformers for each channel, while providing high-end features like built-in DACs and phono stages at mid-range prices.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
X-i50 BT
Page
Product Page
DS-A101-G
631
/
Released
ELAC
An integrated amplifier for today's world. Roon Ready®, Spotify Connect®, Dolby Digital Decoding®, Wi-Fi, and Room EQ are only the beginning. Discover power, performance, convenience and value. The new DS-A101-G integrated amplifier strikes the perfect balance of high-quality audio reproduction, features, and value. The small form factor allows for easy placement while still providing technologies and convenience not found on competing products.
Check on Amazon
ELAC is a hifi brand known for its unique connectivity options in powered speakers, including HDMI ARC at accessible price points, and its proprietary JET tweeter technology that uses a folded ribbon design. The brand's speakers, from bookshelf to floor-standing models, consistently deliver high performance through their crystal membrane drivers and JET tweeters, making them a reliable choice for value-conscious audiophiles.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Very good built-in DAC
  • Sounds good at low volumes
  • Voices are reproduced closely to much bigger and more expensive amps
  • Midrange is well-tuned, especially with Elac speakers
  • Elac speakers produce a lot of bass
  • Has very good connectivity options

Product Considerations

  • A tiny, but audible amount of hiss comes from the tweeter when using the amp
  • The Elac app is not flawless yet

Takeaway: The Elac DS-A101-G is a good-looking streaming amplifier with a very good DAC, that sounds great with Elac speakers and has a well-tuned midrange for voice reproduction. Its compact footprint and ease of use make it a good option for those looking to simplify their setup.

Video review

Our take on the brand

ELAC is a hifi brand known for its unique connectivity options in powered speakers, including HDMI ARC at accessible price points, and its proprietary JET tweeter technology that uses a folded ribbon design. The brand's speakers, from bookshelf to floor-standing models, consistently deliver high performance through their crystal membrane drivers and JET tweeters, making them a reliable choice for value-conscious audiophiles.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
DS-A101-G
Page
Product Page
AMP1
660
/
Released
2022
NAD
The AMP1 adds big sound to your favourite music sources and brings incredible flexibility to any stereo system. This hi-fi amplifier has Chromecast built-in, and allows you to stream and cast music directly from a mobile device or any music streaming app, letting you enjoy your music wirelessly. With Bluetooth® also natively integrated, the AMP1 can wirelessly connect to any smart phone, tablet, or Bluetooth-enabled device within range so you seamlessly stream your favourite music apps or libraries in high-fidelity.
Check on Amazon
NAD Electronics pioneered affordable hifi equipment by focusing on essential features for good sound, with their classic NAD 3020 becoming the best-selling hifi amplifier in history. Their Masters Series features DirectDigital technology, the world's first closed-loop digital amplification that corrects output every 10 nanoseconds.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Warm, rich, and inviting sound with a good midrange focus and fine sound bottom
  • Easy to use and connect to the network via Chromecast streaming
  • Includes turntable input for MM pickups, plus an analogue line input and a preamp output

Product Considerations

  • Not among the most powerful amps and can loosen its grip when the volume is cranked up
  • May not shine quite so much upwards in the harmonics
  • Doesn't have an Ethernet connector, so it needs to be somewhere with good Wi-Fi coverage

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sonos Amp—the NAD Amp1 sounds better

Takeaway: The NAD Amp1 is easy to use and offers a pleasant listening experience with a warm sound. If you want a small amplifier with Chromecast streaming and turntable input, this could be a great fit.

Video review

Our take on the brand

NAD Electronics pioneered affordable hifi equipment by focusing on essential features for good sound, with their classic NAD 3020 becoming the best-selling hifi amplifier in history. Their Masters Series features DirectDigital technology, the world's first closed-loop digital amplification that corrects output every 10 nanoseconds.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
AMP1
Page
Product Page

Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.

Product Strengths

  • Similar feature count to the SA20, at a lower price point
  • Includes five analogue inputs, one for MM phono and one 3.5mm auxiliary input, plus three digital inputs
  • A composure and subtle ebullience makes all kinds of music a pleasure to listen to
  • The midrange picks up on the innate nature of instruments, both acoustic and electronic, very well
  • The phono stage turns out to be the star of the show, offering a magical quality with the right material and delicacy in the treble

Product Considerations

  • The low end can be rather ponderous at times, especially with larger speakers
  • There are issues with timing and dynamics, especially via analogue inputs
  • Bass is ill-defined via analogue inputs
  • Lower power with poorer regulation, compared to the SA20
  • Bass takes on a slightly soporific quality when paired with PMC speakers

Takeaway:

The Arcam SA10 is a feature-rich amplifier that is an alluring musical companion, especially with vinyl records. It offers a pleasing sound and is a solid performer for the price, making it a good choice for people wanting good value.

How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we  discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.

Want to see more similar products?

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