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
- Well-featured amplifier with five analog inputs, including a moving magnet phono stage
- Implements Class G amplifier topology for efficient power delivery
- Conveys the presence of voices and instruments in a good recording in the room
- Remarkable sense of image depth—able to deftly paint surprisingly expansive sonic pictures between the loudspeakers
- Connectivity: Has a built-in 32-bit DAC based on the Sabre chipset with three digital inputs
Product Considerations
- At higher listening levels, the amp maintained the bass attack, articulation, and clarity, even the mid-range was tight with perfect timing, but the high frequencies started losing air and texture
- When pushed harder, there is a tendency to harden up
- The headphone amp does not live up to the expectations of what the rest of the SA20 capabilities promise
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Chord Huey outboard phono stage: The Huey brought much more drama, scale, and dynamic contrast to the music compared to the Arcam SA-20's built-in phono stage
- Vs Arcam SA10: The timing, agility and enthusiasm are improved through the SA20 when compared with its sibling, especially when using the DAC
Takeaway: The Arcam SA20 is a well-constructed amplifier with a good range of inputs and functions. It makes a convincing case for itself with the ability to bring music alive with its fine level of detail.
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.
Video Review
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
[{"title":"Arcam SA20 Integrated Amplifier Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vdsOBiDw6iU","source":"Analogholic","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Arcam SA20 integrated amplifier - hi-fi+","link":"https://hifiplus.com/articles/arcam-sa20-integrated-amplifier","source":"Hi-Fi+","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"Arcam SA20","link":"https://www.hifichoice.com/content/arcam-sa20","source":"hifichoice.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Arcam SA10 and SA20 Integrated Amplifiers, CDS50 ...","link":"https://stereonet.com/reviews/review-arcam-sa10-sa20-amps-with-cds50-streaming-cd-player-revel-concerta2-m16-speakers","source":"stereonet.com","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
SA20
images
No items found.
Manufacturer's notes
There are two frequent problems with hi-fi amplifiers. Class A, the traditional audiophile's choice, uses a single power supply constantly running at full capacity, even when there's no signal coming through. Great for reproducing those subtle details at low levels however struggles to provide extreme power when needed. Class A/B, the most common amp class, switches between the two internal amplifiers, one for each half of the waveform. Far more efficient but often a recipe for crossover distortion, since those low-level details we crave can get lost within any mis-match between the two switching over.
Manufacturer Specs
- Power Output: 90W per channel
- Total harmonic distortion + noise: 0.003%
- Analogue Inputs: 5 (including phono)
- Digital Inputs: 3
- DAC: 32-bit Sabre ESS9038K2M
Visit Manufacturer Site
Average Price
$500
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.
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.
Visit Full Brand Page
Used
Arcam
What if you spend a bit more?
A15
999
999
/
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.
Expand Details
.svg)
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Impressive clarity and punch with expressive dynamics and agility
- Well-built with sturdy casework and a nice finish
- Balanced sound combines elements to fit a wide range of musical tastes, acting as an excellent all-around performer
- A generous spec sheet covers most bases with three line level inputs, a pair of coax digital, and a single optical
- It has two-way Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX Adaptive
Product Considerations
- The display could look crisper due to the frosted look of the front panel
- It is missing a USB input
- It doesn't excel in any one specific sonic aspect
- At bigger volumes, it can sound a bit grainy and bright on some speakers
- There is no light or indicators on the volume nor channel knobs
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Musical Fidelity M3si: The Arcam provides clearer treble and a more open soundstage, while the Musical Fidelity offers a more defined lower end and warmth
- Vs Denon: Denon delivers a massive soundstage, while the Arcam offers more finesse and sonic elegance
- Vs Naim Nait 5si: The Naim resolves details well, but the Arcam sounds more complete and has more versatility and fun
- Vs Audiolab 7000a: The Audiolab has a bigger and grander soundstage, but the Arcam has more definition and fullness
Takeaway: The Arcam A15 is a well-built and versatile amplifier that provides clear and balanced sound suitable for various music genres. It is a great choice for those seeking a blend of modern features and audiophile qualities without over-emphasizing any single aspect.
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.
Visit our
A15
page
Product Page
A5
699
699
/
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.
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.
Visit our
A5
page
Product Page
Mojo 2
650
650
/
65
Reviews
Chord Electronics
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Improved battery management offering faster charging rates and better efficiency than its predecessor
- Features a new USB-C data input for greater flexibility alongside other inputs
- Offers the world's first lossless DSP for tone adjustments without degrading sound quality, providing customization options
- Excellent resolution and dynamics with a large soundstage and extreme detail
Product Considerations
- The Mojo 2 can get warm when in a pocket for a period of time
- Complicated menu navigation with color-coded buttons that may require the manual
- Still uses Micro-USB for charging, which some find outdated
Takeaway: The Chord Mojo 2 is an exceptional DAC/headphone amplifier for those seeking high-resolution audio and customized sound in a portable format that is easy to move. Its sonic accuracy, detailed soundstage, and improved features provide a versatile and enjoyable listening experience, making it a worthwhile consideration for audio enthusiasts.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
Visit our
Mojo 2
page
Product Page
xDSD Gryphon
599
599
/
30
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.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Versatile connectivity with both wireless (Bluetooth 5.1 with various codecs) and wired options (USB, S/PDIF, analog inputs) makes it suitable for various setups—from desktop to portable usage
- Eloquent, informative, and entertaining sound quality, able to produce clear, non-artificial sound across different headphones
- Features such as XBass II and XSpace provide additional sound shaping options for the user to customize the sound to their liking
- The aluminum build provides a robust and premium feel, with a design that's described as sleek and comfortable to handle
Product Considerations
- The user interface is not very intuitive
- Decent headphones are needed to reveal its quality
- The OLED screen can be difficult to read
- Battery life is around six to eight hours
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the hip-dac2, the Gryphon offers better sound quality, more features, and flexibility
- Compared to the iFi GO bar, the Gryphon is bigger and has a built-in battery, and the GO bar is much smaller and draws power from the source device
- Compared to the iDSD Diablo, the Diablo has more power for very demanding headphones, Gryphon has more functions
- Compared to the Zen DAC, the xDSD Gryphon has a more sophisticated and detailed sound
Takeaway: The iFi xDSD Gryphon is a portable and versatile device delivering high-quality sound with extensive features that cater to audiophiles. Its ability to improve sound quality from various sources and its robust build make it a worthwhile investment for music lovers on the go.
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.
Visit our
xDSD Gryphon
page
Product Page
What else competes at this price?
GO blu
199
/
Released
2021
iFi
With Hi-Fi inspired architecture featuring dedicated Bluetooth, DAC, and Amp stages, the ultra-portable GO blu offers the best of both worlds – wireless freedom, paired with the clarity of wired sound.
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.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Detailed and expansive presentation, offering a sonic upgrade to phones, especially when portability is a priority
- Versatile, with both wired and wireless connectivity options, including balanced and unbalanced headphone outputs
- Impressively small size and lightweight design, making it pocket-friendly and convenient for on-the-go use
- Sound quality is generally linear, with fast and accurate bass, flat and clean mids, and a detailed treble that is not harsh
- XBass and XSpace features offer customized listening experiences
- Build quality and aesthetics are generally well-received, with its design standing out from other devices
- ChronoDial volume knob is particularly praised for its tactile feel and functionality
Product Considerations
- Black rubberized plastic casing can feel a bit flimsy to some users
- Some reviewers noted hiss with sensitive IEMs, especially on the balanced output
- Battery life estimation can be unreliable
- No dedicated app for the device, limiting EQ and DSP options
- Lacks a clip, making it less convenient for truly portable use
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Audiolab M-DAC Nano, the Go Blu offers a wider soundstage, better separation, and dynamic sensitivity, though the M-DAC Nano is fractionally punchier in the bass
- Compared to the AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt, the Go Blu is a wireless proposition, unlike the DragonFly Cobalt, which is a USB plug-in DAC
- Compared to the FiiO Q3, the iFi GO blu highs are a bit too brilliant, but everything else sounded quite impressive
- Compared to the NuPrime Hi-mDAC, the iFi GO Blu mids sound a lot like it, even if voices are slightly less natural
- Compared to the Hidizs S9 Pro and Aune BU2, the GO Blu provides a relaxed sound and has better build and functionality compared to the Hidizs S9 Pro, but is better when using bluetooth compared to Aune BU2, however when competing on wired terms, the Aune is clearer
Takeaway: The iFi GO blu is a tiny but mighty device that delivers impressive sound and versatility—improving the wireless music experience. It is easy to use and has some cool features, making it a good pick for anyone looking for a portable upgrade for their headphones.
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.
Visit
GO blu
Page
Product Page
K5 Pro
79
/
Released
2022
Fosi
The K5 Pro features a high-performance audio circuit by Fosi Audio, offering USB C, optical, and coaxial inputs for seamless digital audio connection. Compatible with PS5, computers, and more.
Fosi Audio's V3 amplifier stands out with its elegant hole pattern design for heat dissipation and high-quality components like Wima film capacitors and Japanese capacitors, setting it apart from other budget amplifiers that typically use generic parts. The V3 offers user-customizable sound through replaceable op-amps and features a logarithmic volume control for more natural volume adjustment, while maintaining a compact size with high power output.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Good build quality for the price, with an all-metal chassis and tight inputs
- Versatile, with multiple connection options: USB Type-C, optical, coaxial, and RCA outputs
- Offers bass and treble controls to adjust the sound to the listener's liking
- Decent power output for most headphones, especially within the 32-250 Ohm range
- Great value for the price, especially considering its features and versatility
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers experienced technical issues with initial units, raising concerns about reliability
- May not provide enough headroom for all headphones, even with efficient ones
- Bass adjustment can muddy the sound if turned up too much
- The internal DAC is considered mediocre by some, not very resolving
- There can be a slight noise floor audible with sensitive IEMs
Takeaway: The FIIO K5 is a versatile and affordable device that enhances the audio experience with different headphones and devices. It has multiple inputs and EQ controls, which are beneficial for gamers and music lovers.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Fosi Audio's V3 amplifier stands out with its elegant hole pattern design for heat dissipation and high-quality components like Wima film capacitors and Japanese capacitors, setting it apart from other budget amplifiers that typically use generic parts. The V3 offers user-customizable sound through replaceable op-amps and features a logarithmic volume control for more natural volume adjustment, while maintaining a compact size with high power output.
Visit
K5 Pro
Page
Product Page
SK01
79
/
Released
2023
Fosi
The SK01 is a multi-functional audio gear that caters to desktop and portable music playing and tone tuning. The tri-band adjustment allows you to personalize treble, middle, and bass, finding the perfect balance for your preferences.
Fosi Audio's V3 amplifier stands out with its elegant hole pattern design for heat dissipation and high-quality components like Wima film capacitors and Japanese capacitors, setting it apart from other budget amplifiers that typically use generic parts. The V3 offers user-customizable sound through replaceable op-amps and features a logarithmic volume control for more natural volume adjustment, while maintaining a compact size with high power output.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Versatile as both a headphone amplifier and preamplifier
- Features bass, mid, and treble tone controls for customized sound
- Offers a loudness button to enhance bass and treble at low volumes
- Has a built-in battery for transportable use
- Powerful output to drive various headphones
Product Considerations
- Not ideal for highly sensitive IEMs due to potential hissing at higher volumes
- Size and weight may limit practical portability
- No DAC, relies on external DAC
- Tone controls reduce power output
- The potentiometer is a little bit on the cheaper side, there is a slight bit of channel imbalance when at very low volume
Takeaway: The Fosi Audio SK01 is a versatile and powerful headphone amplifier with tone controls, making it easy to customize audio and drive various headphones, and its battery and preamp functionality are perfect for those seeking a transportable and flexible audio solution
Video review
Our take on the brand
Fosi Audio's V3 amplifier stands out with its elegant hole pattern design for heat dissipation and high-quality components like Wima film capacitors and Japanese capacitors, setting it apart from other budget amplifiers that typically use generic parts. The V3 offers user-customizable sound through replaceable op-amps and features a logarithmic volume control for more natural volume adjustment, while maintaining a compact size with high power output.
Visit
SK01
Page
Product Page
AO200 MK II
341
/
Released
2024
SMSL
AO200 MKⅡ Stereo amplifier features a new digital high-power amplifier chip MA5332 from Infineon, Germany, offering higher quality with high efficiency and low power consumption. It uses NJRC's electronic volume control chip NJW1194 from Japan for precise volume control and low distortion.
SMSL, a Shenzhen-based hifi brand, stands out for its use of advanced chipsets like Infineon's MERUS and ES9039Q2M, which have been objectively verified to deliver exceptionally low noise and distortion levels. The brand has earned acclaim from value-conscious audiophiles.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a neutral and transparent sound signature, providing an accurate representation of the source material
- Offers plenty of power for its size, capable of driving even demanding bookshelf speakers without losing composure
- Features built-in EQ presets and bass/treble tone controls for customizing the sound
- Built with high-quality materials, featuring an aluminum alloy chassis that is both durable and lightweight
- Has versatile connectivity options, including balanced XLR inputs, RCA inputs, USB input, and Bluetooth
Product Considerations
- Internal DAC and Bluetooth performance are underwhelming compared to the amplifier section
- The stock SBC Bluetooth codec limits wireless audio streaming quality
- EQ settings can be confusing and require some experimentation to dial in a balanced sound
- The volume knob might be slightly wobbly
- The power cord could be too short for some setups and might need to be replaced
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The MKII offers nearly double the power output and sounds more dynamic than the SMSL AO200 (original)
- Compared to the Yamaha A-670, the AO200 MKII offers more detail and soundstage, though the Yamaha is warmer and more forgiving
- The AO200 MKII has higher driving power, a more dynamic sound, and lower distortion than the Arylic A50+
- The AO200 MKII offers a more palpable and lifelike sound than the Topping PA5
- The AO200 MKII has better driving power at times, better EQ with no degradation, and is a better value than the Burson Funk
Takeaway: The SMSL AO200 MKII is a compact and powerful stereo amplifier with a neutral sound, making it a solid option for those who want clean sound, plenty of connectivity options, and customization features. It is a good value that can improve the sound of many speaker setups.
Video review
Our take on the brand
SMSL, a Shenzhen-based hifi brand, stands out for its use of advanced chipsets like Infineon's MERUS and ES9039Q2M, which have been objectively verified to deliver exceptionally low noise and distortion levels. The brand has earned acclaim from value-conscious audiophiles.
Visit
AO200 MK II
Page
Product Page
G5
299
/
Released
2022
Topping
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Phenomenal sound quality.
- Very usable and enjoyable interaction due to a physical volume knob.
- Plenty of power for almost everything and can drive just about anything.
- Versatile; it can be used as a desktop all-in-one, a Bluetooth portable DAC/amp, a portable amplifier, and even a DAC for speakers.
Product Considerations
- Susceptible to EMI noises, which can be a deal breaker; static noises, pops, and crackle sounds can occur when a phone is placed directly on top of it.
- Not a completely balanced architecture; the 3.5mm & 4.4mm headphone outputs sound the same.
- Charging port may not indicate charging on anything higher than an 18W charging block, and some chargers may not work.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs FIIO BTR-7: Sounds more refined and has more detail and resolution.
- Vs SMSL C200: The C200 sounds significantly warmer with a fuller, juicier bass line and a little bit more airy, while the G5 is more focused on clean and clear edges, tidy, well-focused—and clean.
- Vs SMSL M500 MK2: The M500 MK2 sounds overall better with dynamics at the same level as the G5 and fuller, warmer tonality—and a bigger, more spacious soundstage.
- Vs Moondrop Moonriver 2: The treble is more refined, better details up top, and a sharp edge without being overboard like the Moonriver 2 can.
Takeaway: The G5 is a well-built and versatile portable DAC/amp with a neutral, clean, and dynamic sound. It is great for those looking for an all-in-one solution that can drive almost any headphone or IEM.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Visit
G5
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
- Well-featured amplifier with five analog inputs, including a moving magnet phono stage
- Implements Class G amplifier topology for efficient power delivery
- Conveys the presence of voices and instruments in a good recording in the room
- Remarkable sense of image depth—able to deftly paint surprisingly expansive sonic pictures between the loudspeakers
- Connectivity: Has a built-in 32-bit DAC based on the Sabre chipset with three digital inputs
Product Considerations
- At higher listening levels, the amp maintained the bass attack, articulation, and clarity, even the mid-range was tight with perfect timing, but the high frequencies started losing air and texture
- When pushed harder, there is a tendency to harden up
- The headphone amp does not live up to the expectations of what the rest of the SA20 capabilities promise
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Chord Huey outboard phono stage: The Huey brought much more drama, scale, and dynamic contrast to the music compared to the Arcam SA-20's built-in phono stage
- Vs Arcam SA10: The timing, agility and enthusiasm are improved through the SA20 when compared with its sibling, especially when using the DAC
Takeaway: The Arcam SA20 is a well-constructed amplifier with a good range of inputs and functions. It makes a convincing case for itself with the ability to bring music alive with its fine level of detail.
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.
Video Review
Want to see more similar products?
Head on over to our Search page to browse our entire database. Find the perfect hifi gear for your system.
Visit Search Page
How to buy
Amplifiers
.svg){kind=icon}
