Warm Not Fuzzy: Arcam SA10 Amplifier Review

[@David-vb8tg]

I like your reviews. Well spoken. Respectful of lower tier gear without any of the ego. You seem like a very grounded bloke. Look forward to watching more.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you David. I like to think I am well grounded. I have spent a lifetime trying to identify and illuminate my prejudiced and false assumptions. It is a lot harder than many may think 😊👍

[@erics.4113]

I would like to think that Tarun is respectful because he is also pragmatic about these products. When you sample (some) expensive pieces, you become acutely aware of the difference in quality. However, it also makes you fully aware of the diminishing returns on solely cost basis, and what you may value. Many of these more cost effective pieces will get you the proverbial '90% of the way there' for significant fractions of the cost to get that last 10% It doesn't make the high cost items less relevant, but it does put some confidence in the market that can't justify very high system costs by letting them know that you CAN enter this hobby at somewhat budget levels and enjoy a fine sound reproduction experience.

[@thethirdman225]

I’ve been enjoying his videos for much the same reason.

[@roconnor01]

Another great review Tarun. I'm still using my Arcam Alpha 9 amplifier,which I bought new in 1998 ! I've mated it with ProAc Tablette Ten Signature speakers and a Bluesound Node 2i streamer,and it still sounds fantastic all these years later. I recently had the amp cleaned and checked over,and the technician who did the work, informed me that it was performing like a brand new product ; testament to Arcam's UK (at the time) build quality.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you. Great to learn about your experiences 😊👍

[@sonhouse9636]

I like your reviews, always very complete, including the internal view. Thanks

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Son. Much appreciated 😊👍

[@paulwooldridge2380]

Another great review, I have the SA20 with Focal Aria 926 speakers and they work perfectly together.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Paul. I suspected those two brands would work together. Always nice to have confirmation 😊

[@bsmega-team9288]

I am very interested in the similarity or difference between the SA10 and SA20 with the class G (As Arcam name it) essentially class A up to 12 watts of power and hands over to A/B

[@paulwooldridge2380]

@@bsmega-team9288 I haven’t listened to the SA10 but I assume they have a similar sound. Subjectively I found it to be very detailed but with a slightly warm sound which works well with my speakers. I also found the SA20 and Focal’s seem to work well at lower volumes eg late night listening. I don’t know if class G helps with this but it seems to.

[@satheeshdinakaran]

Thanks, I got Focal Chora and was looking for a good Amp to bring it. Was leaning towards SA20 and this review/comments helped!

[@wirralchap]

Recently bought an Arcam SA20,absolutely blown away 😊❤️

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Cool 😎

[@petergreen-gh2hm]

Thanks Tarun , I appreciate your time and effort with this channel , keep it going 🙏🏻🥂

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

@@petergreen-gh2hm thank you 👍

[@dannyfannyfoodle]

Excellent, even-handed review as always! I also appreciate that you only do comparisons to components you have on hand. I would think that Triangle BRO-3s would be a good match as well. Or, as you said, maybe a pair of Klipsch, like the new RP-600M Mk2. Thanks for all you do!

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Dan. Much appreciated. I would love to have tried it with some Triangle speakers. Great suggestion 😊👍

[@titntin5178]

Thanks for another fine review! My heart jumped a bit when you showed that old musical fidelity amp you had your eyes on. For almost a decade ive used an MF A300 which i had upgraded by musucal fidelities qa engineer of 20 years, and I still miss it a bit! I almost feel ashamed to be a Naim Atom man now, but Im loving my sound even if i have nothing to play with in terms of boxes or leads. Love your componant dives, they are definately a USP for you. This sounds like an amp I could definately learn to love. The boxing analogies were a lol, but hopefully a one off :) Keep doing what you do, its appreciated!

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you for my friend. Much appreciated. I might be a boxing fan but I won’t be coming another analogy for quite some time 😊👍

[@zackpetrovic3029]

I love how you take your speakers out for some fresh air, some scenery

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you. It is nice to get out of the house sometimes. Bring an audiophile is a indoor pursuit 😎👍

[@zindahoon]

Yyyyyeeeeyyyy thanks for your views on this love Arcam and had few amps and CD players ( second hand ) what I love is the soundstage depth you always mention about . Thanks again

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Atri. So pleased you enjoyed it 👍

[@preiter20]

Another great review Tarun. I really appreciate the 360 degree view you take on audio equipment. It's also great to hear about equipment that might not be so well known in the US.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Paul. Much appreciated 😊👍

[@kobush18]

The one component that I wish to have and was/is beyond my reach is quad 57esl loudspeakers. I remember that I heard them long long ago and I was stunned by they're clarity and natural tonality unlike anything I heard before. I wish I had a pair of them despite their limitation in the bass region. Always was a dream for me to get one pair in mint condition. Rare gem

[@dreamdiction]

Way back in 1997 I was at a Hi-Fi show, I was walking past some booths and I heard something which literally jerked my head around, I follow the sound to a small booth demonstrating a pair of quad 57esl. I was amazed, they sounded like nothing I've ever heard before, not much bass or high treble but the smooth richness of the mid-range puts every other type of speaker in the shade.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Kobi 😊

[@damirhlobik6488]

Excellent presentation, as always, detailed and professional, thank you While I have no intention of changing anything in my vintage system, it’s interesting to hear what new technologies are bringing us

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Damir 👍

[@JohnSmith-of4vh]

A good review of an Arcam integrated amp. I remember listening to the oriiginal A60, it also being a smooth performer. System matching is an important consideration to get the best out of these units. I have heard many good products over the years but nothing that caused fatal lust. My philosophy has always been to build on a good sound with gradual refinements. With new hifi going up so much in the current crisis I am no longer even doing this as my sound is everything I wish it to be.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you John 😊

[@ericlow1461]

Tarun I recently bought an Arcam SA20 which drives my METAs very well. I love the sound this combination gives.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

That is a very good combination. Regularly used by Kef in dealer and hifi show demos 😊

[@stephenbailey9969]

Three months with the SA10 now (in part thanks to this review) and am very satisfied. This review is accurate as to the sound. The Arcam harmonizes well with my Wharfedale Denton 80th anniversary speakers and REL subwoofer. Musical with beautiful tonality.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Stephen 👍

[@nocturnal1970]

I've had the SA10 for over 2 1/2 years, I too own the Denton 80s along with Arcam CDS27 SACD Network Streamer. I'd love to hear the Arcam setup with much more expensive speakers to hear what it can do.

[@stephenbailey9969]

@@nocturnal1970 I'm sure it would drive more expensive speakers quite well, as long as they were relatively efficient. I had thoughts at one time of purchasing some Focals to complement the Dentons with a different sound signature, but have been so satisfied with the current setup that I abandoned the idea. I purchased the Audiolab 6000cdt a year before I acquired the Arcam. It is an excellent cd transport. For streaming, I run a USB out of my desktop computer through a Topping D10s, which converts the signal and exports via a Toslink optical cable into the Arcam's dac. Works perfectly fine.

[@nocturnal1970]

@@stephenbailey9969 You are aware that the final DAC is the SA10 internal? Which as I considered substandard in relation to external DACs feeding the line level inputs. BTW the What Hi-Fi review said the line level inputs were crap compared to the internal DAC. Let me assure you that this was nonsense, feed the SA10 with a good DAC or player like the CDS27 and you'll instantly know the difference. I did a A/B comparison with my CDS27 DAC via line level inputs and a co-axial cable from the CDS27 output feeding the SA10 DAC and trust me there is no way you would choose the SA10 internal DAC... It is akin to upgrading your entire hi-fi by a few grand 😎 The difference is immense regarding width and depth of sound stage and much more glorious bottom end through the Denton 80s. I did a lot of testing of this with a quick switch on the remote, honestly you can hear a massive difference, the CDS27 is a much unknown gem. I haven't heard the CDS 50 or ST60 streamer but it is nirvana in soundstage and luciousness. Edit: Just to verify my testing memories I am testing again with classical music and the difference is huge... Solo piano lower octaves, more 3D, more detail. The difference reminds me of going back to my first Cambridge Audio student buy in the mid 1990s. I guess it is up to you 😎 Further edit: Listening to Adagio by Strings via Tidal from this phone oh my it is beautiful, no need for CD transport or hard drives, I have extensively tested those also and no difference.

[@stephenbailey9969]

@@nocturnal1970 Thanks for the information. I've used external dacs in the past, both multibit and those based on various sigma-delta chips, including Burr Brown chips as used in the CDS27. But to get that 'Arcam tuning' I would in the future consider the CDS50 or whatever is the latest production model. No doubt that synergy is very important in selecting components.

[@audiorick841]

Great to include a comparison with the IotaVX and Audiolab!

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you 👍

[@BigDogChannel]

The one component I always wanted, but never acquired: Dalquist DQ10 speakers. I always loved those speakers, but never found my way to getting a pair. You do excellent reviews. Thanks.

[@gwine9087]

My system is an Arcam Alpha 6+ integrated and an Alpha 7 CD player, from over 25 years ago. I have never regretted buying them.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

That is great 👍

[@valkyrieorion7200]

Really enjoyed this review! Loved the bit of a trip down memory lane for your equipment in years past and history of older equipment. Would love to see a Quad Vena review to compare against the 6000a and Arcam one day! I don’t have anything I would say got away, just glad I never sold my Dali Menuet speakers when someone offered me close to what I paid, then I probably would have!

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you 😊

[@michaellim1425]

At last we see an arcam review. Thank you British Audiophile! I do have the PA240 power amp from Arcam. Did not see any review on KZbin.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Michael. I get there in the end (hopefully) 😊

[@avro66]

Hi tarun. I've had some arcam equipment back in the day,mid 80s early 90s,always great value for money, the plastic faceplates and knobs were manufactured just up the road from me,I was a fitter at derwent plastics, Stamford bridge east Yorkshire, very handy for spare parts if needed, I'm not a great fan of the new design and style, but its great to see the quality and value is still there. Thanks again for another great review.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Paul. That is a great anecdote 😊👍

[@gokhanersan8561]

Exactly my feelings with sa10, after listening to it for several days.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Gökhan 😊

[@gokhanersan8561]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 I think Rotel a11 sits between Arcam and audiolab performace wise. Your viewers would benefit from your opinion of how those 3 affordable class A/B amps compare.

[@smuconn]

One of the many strengths of this review is your ability to describe with precision and without recourse to jargon what you are hearing. That mountain seems the hardest one for reviewers to climb whether solely in print or in broadcasting. Equipment on the horizon? It looks like I'm going to have to figure out streaming. Still trying to work out what equipment I need to add, how that equipment will interface with my current (and, hopefully, lifetime) amp, and the cost will be of subscriptions to streaming services that grant access to a wide range of jazz and classical music.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Mike. That is very kind. It is tricky to describe what you hear. It is also hard to keep things fresh without getting into flowery audiophile nonsense 😊👍

[@thepuma2012]

streaming opened up a HIgh-res world for me. I choose Qobuz because of the many 24 bit/up to 192 khz music and that made a big difference, with a good renderer, in how I hear music now. It sounds clearly much better than CD quality. Good luck on choosing your equipment for that. I bought a second hand Moon MiND 180 for that, which was a cheap but terrific upgrade for streaming. I have the old audiolab 8000a but the first thing to upgrade are my speakers, I guess.

[@smuconn]

​@@thepuma2012 Thanks for pointing out the Moon MiND 180. Was considering it and the Lumin D2 on the used market. Looking at DAC's as well.

[@thepuma2012]

@@smuconn Hi, well the MiND´s are so top quality, get a good DAC as well then. The MiND 180 was the first, the newer types after that are a bit more extended when upgraded, and can make use of Roon. Anyway I am happy with the quality of the 180. Tried some apps, like mconnect free version but in the end i am using the app from MiND itself. I googled the Lumin, seems a bit hard to choose between the two..... According the reviews the lumin sounds really good with its in built dac. The MiNDs are excellent renderers on its own, giving a perfect signal to the connected DAC.

[@smuconn]

@@thepuma2012 Thanks for the help!

[@wfifa199]

The amp that I always desired but could not afford in my earlier hifi years was the Marantz PM17 Ken Ishiwata Signature, along with the matching CD player. Both always got good reviews and the amp looked fantastic in gold and with the illuminated temperature dial.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you James. I remember being impressed with that amp 😊

[@DougMen1]

I had the standard issue PM17 and CD17. They were very good, but a bit too warm for my taste and not crisp enough on top. Maybe I just needed to pair them with different speakers than what I had.

[@charlesclifton1006]

Thanks to everyone who commented on my comment below. Of course, another big thanks to you Tarun. I learned about Arcam a couple years back but other than know about their existance ... that was it. Now since I posted (yesterday) below, I've learned a bucket-full about the bigger brother S-20. I understand Class A and now, having learned about the S 20s class G, I now know that G is another way of presenting (more?) Class A. What I have finally concluded after 2 years of serious research is that the Arcam S 20 is now at the top of my replacement wish-list. I'm not sure about the built in DAC but I have a couple of pretty good Schiit DACS. If the Arcam's DAC outperforms them then I'll be happy ... if not, perfectly happy with the Schiit (choices). Finally I can say that I am really happy about learning about Arcam and their total commitment to engineering truly great products at reasonable prices. I can honestly say I feel like Scrooge on Christmas morning ... this is the next amp I will purchase after I get Tiny Tim new crutches. Seriously .. thank you Tarun for serving as a catalyst and causing me to look further at the Arcam product line. Now, what speakers? I've got some nice Pardigms, Elacs and a small set of Keys but in time, they too shall be replaced. Since the mid 60s I have been fascinated with audio and at 72 ... still AM.👌

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Charles I greatly appreciate your kind words of support 😊👍

[@stucorbishley]

I remember buying my first hifi when I was 14, I bought a pair of B&W DM303s - I didn’t have the money but I demoed a second hand Arcam amp in the showroom with my speakers. That was my first and last in person experience with Arcam and still remember being blown away by the mixture of elegance and muscle compared to the amp I had (mid/high end Technics from the 80s restored by my Dad). The dealer touted the toroidal transformer and power supply section as a big differentiator. I’ve always kept an eye out for Arcam since then, we’re pretty spoilt for choice these days.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Stuart. Isn’t it great the memories evoked by certain brands and components 😊

[@DougMen1]

I had an Arcam Alpha 7 paired with some 303s, and they were a great combo for a small room

[@bsmega-team9288]

Thanks Tarun, great review. With a recent price drop it would be interesting to see how much extra performance is achieved with the SA20 boasting Arcam’s class G amplification. Well under £1K and class A up to 12 watts before handing over to class A/B

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you. I would like to review that amp 😊

[@steveneric2298]

The 20 is definitely worth the extra cash. I've had both and while the 10 sounds great the 20 has more muscle and drive. I've never heard my RA labs reference 2a speakers come alive like they do with the sa20.

[@markh3088]

Great review and thank you! It's nice to see a well built A/B amp in this price class. A real power supply! Current! Smooth sound!

[@TheHammerofDissidence]

I thought Arcam was class "G"?

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Mark 👍

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

The bigger brothers to the SA10 are class G 😊

[@brown-eyedman4040]

Thank you, Tarun for more great content. It's fun to see how your channel has grown and how the production values have increased. Can't really think of "one that got away". Maybe the Celestion SL600. The one with the honeycomb cabinet. Remarkable 3d soundstage.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you buddy. I am still enjoying my Celestion 300s to this day 😊

[@robertjordan613]

I was debating which Arcam SA-series amp to buy. Was leaning toward the SA30/20 due to Class G amp,, but went with the SA10 based on your review and the warmth of sound you mentioned. Paired with Revel M106’s, it’s the perfect combination for my small home office…great value in this SA10.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

That is great. Thank you for sharing Robert 😊

[@fts81]

Great review! My product? My current dream is an air tight 300. That sound won’t come off my mind…greatest thing I’ve ever heard

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Felipe 😊

[@josevarela6352]

Great review and insights, Tarum. Thank you!

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you José 😊

[@DBravo29er]

Fantastic review!!!! I got a good friend into the SA10 and he loves it! The one that got away for me was a Pass Labs XA-30.8 for well under $3800 USD in mint condition.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you buddy 😊😂

[@jeffkalina7727]

Enjoyed the new descriptor- Whistle stop. Similes of Pugilism. Good job as usual. Must be hard not attending the Munich show.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you. I wish I could have got there 😊

[@garethvaughan426]

Great review Tarun, good to see anyone can get fantastic audio at reasonable prices, I have owned a Arcam FMJ A28 for a while with mourdaut short Mezzo 2 speakers & QED cable with a Nad cd player. I knew I could improve things so just bought a pair of B&W 606's, chord screen x cable and a Arcam FMJ CD17 wow what an improvement in dynamics, love playing all my favourite cd again 😀 cheers

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Gareth 👍

[@willtoube5723]

congratulations for the excellent content. for jbl L890 speakers, which integrated amplifier do you recommend?

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you. I haven’t tried those speakers 😊

[@willtoube5723]

Ok

[@ericschwartzberg5083]

Nice review as always. I am currently running an Audiolab 6000 a with a pair of Magnepan SMG a .ok for now but I am saving up for a Hegel H 90 or 95. Time to move up a level or 2.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you. I think the H95 will over an improvement but the H120 might be more worthwhile with those Maggies 😊

[@ranelime]

Glad to see another boxing fan!

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Life long 😊

[@sdemosi]

Nice review as ever Tarun. The boxing analogy was a giggle. Was a bit surprised to see an oldish DAC in the Arcam. They're part of Harman group so presumably have access to all the best components. Every product is built to a budget of course.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you. I suppose they had to keep a tight grip on the purse strings with this one 😊

[@sdemosi]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 yes a lot of value packed into that circa £700 price. USB input wouid be nice but it's pricey to implement as you say. I actually like an amp where you exit standby using the volume knob as it stops me from inadvertently deafening myself. On a much less budget friendly level, you should check out the Technics SU G700 mk2 (a mouthful! ) digital amp. It has a very high quality retro exterior design with up to the minute internals that gives you an awful lot their £7grand SU-R1000 for a lot less money. The mk2 is better in some respects.

[@nocturnal1970]

The SA10 internal DAC is OK for TV, films, Xbox or KZbin, but my favourite player and DAC I have connected is the Arcam CDS27 SACD Network streamer. This has a huge lush soundstage with more bottom end compared to SA10 DAC, Rega DAC (this had great timing and rythym though) and Ifi USB DAC Signature. I also owned the Arcam Alpha 9 CD player with the ring DAC but before I got the SA10. The SA10 DAC does not cut the mustard to get the most musicality from the SA10. It sounds anemic compared to other DACs I have and especially the CDS27. It's worth trying to pick one up on Ebay, it has Burr Brown DAC chip which I seem to prefer to the ESS Sabre. Plus the SA10 remote can control the CDS27 also which is nicer than the remote that was supplied with CDS27.

[@lonniefarmer7067]

Thanks! The one that got away was a magnetic gimbal suspension turn table my wife dropped a plant on... It was cool in the house for a few days after that.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Lonnie 😊

[@rickshort5569]

Another very well presented review Tarun. I had a Arcam A19 about 10 years ago. I think that retailed for around the same price. It sounded pretty much as you described Arcams of old. I liked it alot with my monitor audio gr10s. Warmsh amp and Bright speakers = good match. That system has long gone. My old lust that didn't happen was a meridian g57 power amp that I once demonstrated in place of my Arcam A85 & p85. With van de Hull the first interconnects with my cyrus cd7q/chord dac 64 with kimber d60 cable and b&w 805 sigs. It was a wow demo. I never managed to buy them. I moved home and started a family.... I sold all the gear and now use kef ls50 wireless. But the bug is building in me again. Watch this space.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Great anecdote. Thank you for watching and sharing Rick 😊👍

[@alexseaford4029]

Thanks for the Arcam piece. When I was a youf I lusted after a Dual turntable with a sure cartridge and a Nad 3020. I actually had a very nice Rotel turntable and receiver which I bought second hand for peanuts frim a kindly friend of the family and looking back I don't think I knew how good the set up was.......kids, what are they like 😆

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Alex 😊

[@charlesclifton1006]

After hearing this review with the understanding that, as usual, Tarun is going to deliver a pretty clear description of this amp's qualities - I decided to check further. I am in Canada but trying to find a local CDN dealer was disappointing but (happily) I discovered that Crutchfield (a US onliner) carries the SA10 & the SA20. First - the US price is in line with the equivalent British Pounds (and Canadian ounces) AND - considering the reviews ( on Crutchfield) ... I am a bit surprised at how affordable this amp is. ( $ 880.00 USD). Now, the SA20 was an interesting amp (class G) and had some equally positive reviews but it is a grand more. Not understanding exactly what class G is- and considering the review here and elsewhere, I'd save a "G" and just get the SA10. I do not listen to high volume ... low to mid is my cup of tea. I love ( some ) classical music but I also enjoy almost anything with a good melody (subjective) From the reviews it seems that this amp can provide a warm mid-range and some silky highs plus plus. Come the fall .. as my retirement budget permits ... I just might buy this unit. I am very intrigued and the price is🤙 ... (unfair to the competition if truth by review be told) Thanks Tarun ... Arcam definitely owes you one (or two)

[@thomasward00]

My SA10 with Wharfedale Denon 80's sound Great at low volumes....

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

That is great Charles. The SA10 can sound very nice with the right speakers 😊👍

[@valkyrieorion7200]

Centre hifi and audioconnexion in Canada carry Arcam

[@pliiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii]

Hey Charles. There's a dealer here in Montreal if ever you are still interested

[@mountainousterrain1704]

Fillion Électronique in Montreal has it in stock - $1,299 Canadian. Free shipping. I'm not affiliated with them. Just bought some stuff there a while back.

[@markphilpot8734]

Hi Tarun, you explained this out very well. When dealing with less money, there are compromises to be made and choices which will yield the best result when used with a specific component. For some it is frustration. For others, the path is longer wait time and even more frustration. I refer to the one piece at a time choice which takes years to get, but sacrifices little when it comes to what you want. It’s a discipline and a choice that some use to achieve that level, but given their economic restraints, aren’t able to have it at a finger snap. I did without for five years in order to have what I wanted that offered the least in any compromise. Few are willing, but the rewards are great. It all depends on what is important and how much it is important both in your heart and mind. Each must make choices, but making compromises for me and others of like mind, it isn’t worth it to sacrifice quality just to have something to listen to. Doesn’t matter whether it is a home, a car or a stereo system, compromise isn’t an option which means patience is a requirement and the reward is worth the sacrifice. It’s a hard philosophy with virtually no give. Who said life was easy. The reward is worth it, but we must decide what we want and what the cost truly is. In the high end, the price is patience and the reward is worth the wait. No fun now versus near nirvana later, choices where no free lunch exists and none is expected. It can be an ugly world and often is. The key is a positive mental attitude and realistic, achievable goals. Mr Rick often said, life is not fair, get over it. He is right now as he was right then. Yield not, persevere without wavering and press on I the face of great adversity for the reward awaits and passion is vilified. Cheers Tarun! Truth is hard, but fair. Stay safe my mates!😊👍🏻😁🛠

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Mark. Always a pleasure to have your perspective and wisdom 😊👍

[@chico1287]

Great review Tarun -thanks!. This has taken me back down memory lane. I also started my audiophile journey back in the early nineties and really stuck with the ARcam Alpha amplifier ranges for many years. I am now left with the very first A&R Cambridge Alpha and a later (early 2000's) Arcam Diva 80. What is interesting is the basic Alpha has a more exiting sound but lacks the power and scale of the A80. Both are smooth sounding, but there is that smidge of excitement that keeps me going back to the basic Alpha and its great for night time listening. Back in the 90's I really wanted a pair of Monitor Audio Studio 20SE Speakers that were way beyond any students reach :-(

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

That is great. Thank you Chico 😊

[@doifeellucky]

Great review as always Tarun. I lusted after a Pioneer A-400 but that was solely based on What Hi-Fi’s awards issue. I’d just started Uni when it came out so again it was never going to happen. I think it was referred to as a giant killer and got the overall product of the year by a unanimous decision. I’ve since read comments saying it was overrated but would still like to hear one.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

That was a great amp in it’s day. It was a big seller at the hifi store where I worked in my teens 😊

[@theedgeofbreakup5192]

Nice review and your boxing reference brought back memories of when I spent 6 weeks with Frank Bruno and his trainer George Francis in Fountain Hills AZ at my gym in his preparation for the Mike Tyson fight. Nicest guys ever to be around. The fight was a disappointment……

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you. It was a shame, Frank had a moment to get to Mike in that fight 😊

[@Sparta155]

Great review Tarun. The extra transistors will be setting the bias for the output stage. They are attached the the heatsink so that they are thermally coupled to the output transistors, therefore the bias will track temperature.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Dan. That is pretty cool. I imagine it should help to reduce crossover distortion. Maybe that is why it as smooth as a good class A design 😊

[@DougMen1]

The two larger chips on the right on the heatsink are the power devices, one for each channel. They have two devices inside each one, which is why they have six pins each instead of three. The two on the left are probably driver devices, to provide the final voltage and current gain to the output devices, and as the phase splitters. The large one in the center is probably a voltage regulator, and the small one between the power devices may be a temperature sensor, to protect from overheating, overload, or a short circuit

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you DM 😊

[@SpineTingler007]

I just bought this amp because it was on sale for half price. I have it sitting atop my 6000A. It has more punch in the mids and bass but can't match the detail and clarity of the 6000A. A very pleasant, non-fatiguing sound. Highly recommended.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

@@SpineTingler007 thx for sharing your experience 😊

[@edholmwood]

Good review. Very pugilistic. I do appreciate your ability to verbally describe what you hear. The one that got away from me was the Marantz PM94. I have the PM74D and had a PM84 but the big one got-a-way. I would describe its sound as similar to how you characterized the Arcam but with a significant power difference and more refinement.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you buddy. That was a beast on an amplifier 👍

[@leokevin67]

Excellent review, especially the preamble. I had an Arcam FMJ A27, it defined 'sonic mush' as you put it, and I got rid of it fairly quickly. Very open-minded to to giving Arcam another go though, especially after your comments.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Leo. I appreciate you watching and sharing 😊

[@stevepickering5978]

I still have my Arcam Alpha 9 amp, Power Amp all connected to my Arcam Alpha 9 CD Player all still working Brilliantly cant fault them may change one day may.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

That is great Steve. I appreciate you sharing 😊

[@johncallaghan3097]

Splendid review, Tarun. Much enjoyed. As regards the one that got away, I draw a blank. I assume that to know you had let it get away, you'd have had to have a) heard it, b) bought something else and c) heard it again and regretted your decision. That hasn't happened, not in my early experience of hi-fi in the period of the 70s to the early 2000's, nor on my return to the hobby in the past two or three years. I'm afraid I have my current systems, which luckily I am very happy with, and have lost a great deal of my interest in upgrading now.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you John. Much appreciated. I was not so lucky. I still regret not being able to get that MF A1000 😊👍

[@jdekong3945]

Hi Tarun, I think those are LM3886 power amp chips, very highly regarded

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you JD 👍

[@russellparker4568]

I’ve got the sa30. It’s quite the amplifier, especially for the discounted price of £1450 that I managed to snatch it for. Came from the audiolab 6000a play. I’m very happy with the jump in performance however it’s the Dirac room calibration that is built in that when done properly makes a considerable difference. Sa30 has a couple of niggles though, odd volume creeping up and down after changing the volume and it’s got poor lip sync with my television. As a hifi amp though it sounds fantastic. Always enjoy your reviews Tarun. Great job.

[@thepuma2012]

lipsync you can adjust in the settings of your tv (probably)

[@russellparker4568]

@@thepuma2012 it’s doesn’t need delay it’s the opposite. It just makes it worse with delay. The sa30 has delay option built in as well.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you for sharing Russell 😊

[@Hzim007]

Thank you Tarun, I learned so much from your channel, very much appreciated!

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Muhammad. Much appreciated 😊👍

[@Nephilim-81]

I really like ARCAM. My first real decent DAC I ever bought was the irDAC. Loved it, but just recently sold it this year for upgrades. Had it for 8 years. ;)

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you 😊

[@thomasward00]

I have an SA10 with Wharfedale Denton 80th, along with a ML Sub for my bedroom system, I love it....

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

That is great. Thank you for sharing 😊

[@alexk0il]

Fantastic review as usual, thank you. I wonder if you can comment on how SA20 might compare to SA10 in terms of pure sonic qualities rather than the technical data.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you kindly. I would like to get one home to be able to answer that with any authority 😊👍

[@dougg1075]

Top notch review man.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Doug. Much appreciated 😊👍

[@filofilo8127]

Another great review Tarun.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you buddy 👍

[@JoelOman1980]

I've always liked the "Arcam sound" back in the days, but I've never really cared that much for their design. Sadly still the same issue for me nowadays... The Product that "got away" is the Dynaudio Audience standmount speakers. I had a friend owning a pair and they sounded excellent. Would love to get a hold of a pair today, at least just to try out. (I know they can be found second hand, but I already recently spent quite a lot on my system, so I'm not in the position to get them now...) Thanks Tarun for this (as always) insightful and excellent review! Have a splendid weekend! :)

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

That you Joel. Great to learn about your experiences 😊👍

[@JoelOman1980]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 Thank you Tarun. I do, however, currently run the BRO-threes in my system and there's a possibility to lend a SA-10 from my local dealer to audition... 😉 Saw some other comment about this and I believe that combination would sound quite remarkable, mainly since the Triangles are so easily driven, but still, they love a 'chunk of power' to open up even more! 👌🏼

[@greencraig8570]

My first amp was a Krell, then Prima Luna, then Cary, now Schiit and am looking at getting a Decware now.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Cool 😎 thank you for sharing 😊

[@bigambientdeath]

Another concise review Tarun, my only experience with arcam was an A70, just seemed to drain the life out of anything I played through it, got shot very quickly, my only regret is not getting my Denon pma 800 in silver, missed the boat on that one, would love to see you compare it to iota vxsa3, dream amp PMA 1600, I love my tone controls🙂

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you. I owned an A75+ and had a similar experience. It was an impulse buy. Arcam seemed to have lost their way back then. Nice to see them back on form with this one 😊

[@seekstruth5968]

I tried pma800 w emotiva bookshelf and marantz cd6006. Couldn't get any detail out of it whatsoever! Zero detail. It was open box. Returned it. Meanwhile cambridge axr 35. Very nice!

[@bigambientdeath]

@@seekstruth5968 glad you found a combo that works for you, I currently have a Cambridge audio axa35 plumbed in, that I picked up used, haven't decided if it stays on goes yet lol, it has a nice, clean, crisp sound for sure but the bizarre tone controls let it down, also sounds like it could use bigger power caps to give the sound some more body, might just keep it as a backup amp, still prefer the Denon with my Dali Oberon 5's, so far....

[@seekstruth5968]

@@bigambientdeath Perhaps my speakers or cd player don't have much treble leading to poor sound on denon 800 and marantz 8006 amps?? Couldn't get any detail on either. Denon 800 was v nice looking. Seemed solid. The 8006 was a tank. Oh well--Hope I didn't make mistake returning those. On your setup the voices sound real apparently! Now I am jealous! At any rate, I do get very good/excellent sound with my c setup.

[@jeremylynnchagaspereira3926]

Great review! Again. I enjoyed seeing good quality at a relatively reasonable price. A Cyrus CD player is something I feel I missed out on.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Jeremy 😊

[@xonking]

Nice review, thank you. Thinking about getting this with a pair of floor standing Klipsch, hoping it pairs well!

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

That may work 😊

[@GeraldUmraw]

Thank you for a very insightful review Tarun. Was debating getting the Arcam SA10 over the Marantz PM6007 and by the looks of it the Arcam would be a much better buy.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

The SA10 is the better amp 😊

[@maurom7143]

Excellent review Tarun, I own the SA10 paired with Dali Opticon 2 MKI speakers, 8" Magnat subwoofer, Fluance RT81 TT, Bluesound Node2i streamer. I haven't owned many setups but I'm very pleased with this one; I think the MM phono input on the SA10 is brilliant for those with vinyl collections. The DAC is of decent quality, I can't really tell the difference between it and the Node2i DAC when using the Toslink port for instance. I did feel the SA10 lacked bass, just that little bit that a very inexpensive 8" woofer was able to deliver it, considering no tone controls on the amp. I tried the AudioLab 6000A and didn't really like it at all, sounded very flat and boring on my setup, and read quite a few reviews at the time on the Ioata about their customer support that put me off. It could be that my speakers require careful matching, which to my ears, the SA10 provides.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you. Great to learn about your experiences 😊

[@thisadequatelife]

I really appreciate you reviewing an Arcam product. I wish there were more reviews like this. I still have the original Arcam Solo as my main driver with Tannoy speakers. I've considered the SA 20 as a replacement but starting to look at the next leap forward in the form of Naim. It just gets a bit pricey for me. The product I missed out on were the Tannoy Revolution xtf6 floorstanders. It looks like Fyne is the new place to look for this type of midrange floorstanders with nice fit and finish. The Tannoy heritage range is a bit out of my league. I always enjoy your videos. Thanks.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you. I agree Fyne would be a good choice 😊

[@AT-wl9yq]

I highly recommend you listen to the Naim before you buy it. It doesn't sound anything at all like the Arcam.

[@walterandbruges]

@@AT-wl9yq Hi, thanks for noting this. Is it colouration, soundstage, clarity between the two? I would certainly look to test each item before laying down the cash. Just interested if you can elaborate as to your preference/experience.

[@AT-wl9yq]

@@walterandbruges I liked the idea of what Naim was trying to accomplish, but it was just too rough around the edges. When I had it on a laid back speaker that doesn't have a lot of detail, like the B&W LM1 (This is not your typical B&W. It had a soft dome tweeter, and was fairly forgiving.), it sounded very good. The problem was when you put it on a speaker that has the type of resolution you would expect from a typical high end audio product, like the Vandersteen 1's, it fell apart. It just wasn't a clean sounding amp. I got just OK results putting it on something in between the two I just mentioned, like the Monitor Audio S8's. I got the impression Naim was trying to do a bit too much at that price point. I would have rather them charge another $500 or so for the amp, and get it to sound like it should. I also had at the same time a Creek 5350SE. The 2 were very close in price. They don't make it any more, but if you can find a good used one, it just killed the Naim. It was in a completely different league. If I had to guess what the issue was, I would bet money it was the preamp. At this price point its almost impossible to find a good stand alone preamp, and not one that's part of an integrated amp. Creek understands this and opted not to use one, and go passive. It was the exact same thing with another integrated I had, the Ayre CX-7. The guy who designed it told me the exact same thing. He went passive, because he couldn't make an integrated with an active line stage to his standards at that low of a price point. Hope this helps you make a decision. Like I said, if you can find a good used Creek, I would go that route over the Naim. And if you're lucky enough to fine an Ayre, that one is good enough to be the last one you buy. The only reason I got rid of mine, is I needed more power. I sold it and bought 2 Ayre V-5's. But if you don't need that much power, they sound pretty close.

[@totalplonker824]

Been waiting for this one, not that it makes any difference now 🤔 You've always giving me good advice over the years Tarun, the thing is, I used to love my movies more then I love my 2-channel music, but sayin that... I can remember when you advised me to pull my speakers away from the walls and that was it.. multi-channel listening (movies) was now going to the back burner! Fortunately at that particular time, I just happen to be in the middle of auditioning a couple of amps and plus several Japanese AVRs and I can remember asking you... what would be a good AVR to start my 2-channel journey with and that's when you mentioned ARCAM! Well anyway I'm so glad I took your advice (especially after experiencing those tinny digital sounding Japanese AVRs) because now, now that I'm using the arcam avr20 with it's matching power amps, when I'm feeling down, I can distract myself with some Dolby Atmos movies on my 5.2.4 configuration but thankfully when I'm feeling good, I have the other option of putting my 2-Channel audiophile grade music on and then, when I listen to the subtleness yet crisp top end of my sonus Faber senneto speakers, it makes me feel that it has all truly come together! Just want to say cheers mate and good looking out! 😁

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

It is a joy to get feedback like that TP. I still believe that Arcam AVR are unsurpassed for the money for those who want multi-channel movies and two channel listening 👍😊👍

[@totalplonker824]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 especially now, with the arcam avr20 having 30% off (£1000) probably because the AVR 21 has just been released and it's got the new HDMI 2.1 8k (Thankfully I'm not a gamer 😁)

[@Big-J-8579]

Thanks! A good review. I own the Arcam CDS50 and enjoy it. I auditioned this amp but ended up going with the Cambridge CXA80. More power and features (excluding the phono preamp). I also love having tone controls the CXA80 has. Bought mine on closeout, so the pricing was similar between the two.

[@ColdGrayMorning]

But SA10 is great as preamp

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you for sharing your experiences Jerald 😊

[@DougMen1]

The new generation CXA61 and 81 don't have tone controls, but their AXR85 and 100 receivers do.

[@turreu]

What surprised me the most going from an Audiolab 6000A to a Rega Elex-R and later Roksan K3, was the amount of detail I was missing with the Audiolab. After hearing these more expensive amps, the Audiolab sounded muffled in comparison. I very much recommend going second hand, for example Elex-R can be had for the same money as Audiolab 6000A bought as new.

[@robskinnerinvesting]

I went from a Cambridge AXR100 to a Rega Elex-R and the difference was huge.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

The 6000A is great value but if you can spend more you can do better 😊

[@rikardekvall3433]

Tarun, love your laid back professional videos. I have a wife! That’s what’s holding back my eager to evolve and expand my hobby…. She’s the interior designer and head of the aesthetic committee. So I need a dedicated room for my hobby, expect from the garage.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Rikard. I suspect you are a wise man and have your priorities right 😊

[@drell1636]

Great review! One surprise was that the dac in this thing is actually very good, I assumed it was more of an afterthought. I ended up using the the digital out from my dac cause it sounded better to me that using the analog output from it.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you. Arcam have a good track record with sensibly priced DACs 😊👍

[@rm23cssd]

Wow ! What a very precise down to earth review as always. I bought the arcam sa10 together with bw floorstander 603,and it was a blast from the past…sa10 for me @ 50watts per channel is pretty enough for me, it does suits my taste and liking.. im more on streaming using my ipad/phones , was there anymore i can add like external DAC to enhance more the digital audio? ( sa10 DAC is not bad at all, but im more willing to explore more the avenues of streaming) again thank you for your unbiased review of arcam.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you you Ron. The internal DAC on the SA10 is very good. You won’t gain much from an external one until you upgrade amp and speakers 😊👍

[@rm23cssd]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 thanks Tarun , I’m really hoping you will say that..bless you more with that sophisticated and well versed review! A big fan here from Norfolk🤓, a million thanks.

[@thomasward00]

The ESS DAC in the SA10 is the same used in the Dragonfly Red, it's pretty darned good... I love my SA10

[@rm23cssd]

@@thomasward00 thanks mate, i love them too, just for arguments sake, i wanted to build a 3.1 system around my sa10 , will that be possible? If it does what gear should i add on to it ( just wanted to add a center and sub ) Thanks in advance

[@thomasward00]

@@rm23cssd I have a Martin Logan Dynamo 400 connected to the Pre Outs from my SA10, sounds great. With the Sub and Denton 80's, I set the Sub crossover to about 60hz and the volume to around 10 o'clock, sounds great.

[@nakkenakuttaja5224]

Nice review as always, thanks! Any change to get review of Arcams big brother SA30 or maybe Lyngdorf TDAI-1120?

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you. I hope to get around to review both 😊

[@yvesboutin5604]

Hi Tarun! Thanks for this Arcam review. I own an Arcam amp for the last 20 years (A 80), and still very satisfied with its smoothness and muscle power in the bass. I have listened to some amps at my friends houses over the years and only Moon and McIntosh seems to offer a real upgrade around 2,5k$ price range. I suppose the real test should be in my own living room. This amp might not be the last word in delicacy and transparency, but it never failed to draw you in a cozy place where the music have center stage that I must be sure the replacement could bring that level of enchantment. So, your review come as greatly anticipated and the thorough survey of its capabilities help in guiding my research of something even better. Thanks again!

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Yves. Looks like you’re onto a winner with the A80. Great job of describing the Arcam sound 😊

[@koosfockens1707]

Great review. Nice to know how the SA10 compares to others and helped me to decide that I'm still happy with my Arcam Diva A85, driving a pair of Monitor Audio Silver 6 floorstanding speakers, at least to my ears. Placement of my speakers in my home is a little compromised due to space and layout (and keeping the wife happy ;-) ) I would have preferred to put them a little closer towards each other and a little further out from the walls, to help with the soundstage and low end control, but it will do. Talking of floor standers, any reviews of new ones coming up in the 800-1500 pound range?

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Koos. I will be reviewing floorstanders but they will have to wait until my home renovations are completed 👍

[@earthstick]

My first amp was an Arcam 8R. The guys a Richer Sounds were nice enough to sell it to me for the price of the 7R, because that had sold in the few days since I listened to it.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you for sharing, my friend 😊

[@filletfignon-wn7ku]

Thank you, Tarun for another great review. I'd be interested to know your thoughts on the Arcam SA10 vs the NAD C338, which you favourably reviewed. In particular, warmth and fullness of tonality of both. I currently have a Rega Brio R. Thank you kindly.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you. There was some time between reviews but I think the SA10 is a little more resolving 😊

[@filletfignon-wn7ku]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 Thank you for your reply, Tarun. I was also wondering about the differences between the Arcam SA10 and the Cambridge AXA35. I watched your review on the Cambridge AXA35 and you addressed everything. Another great review too, with the Cambridge CXA61. All good options to compare with my Rega Brio. Thank you, again for your thorough reviews.

[@michaelswitzer3186]

Tarun, perhaps you can clear up some confusion for me. My priority is a warm, melodic sound (think, e.g., of many of the songs from the scores from “Out of Africa” or “”Cinema Paridiso”), and female vocals (think, e.g., Nina Simone singing “Wild is the Wind”). I’m not a fan of treble and, perhaps because of my older age, while I would want enough bass to have a full sound, I don’t need lots of bass. My confusion is this: your reviews and reviews of others say we shouldn’t get both warm speakers and a warm amplifier because it will be “too much of a good thing “. But having stated my priorities, would I be better off buying a warm speaker (such as the Wharfedale Lintons or the Buchardt S400 mk1) and a more neutral amplifier or the reverse buying a warm amplifier (such as the Arcam 10 or 20) and a more neutral pair of speakers (such as the Bucharest S 400 mk2)? Or would either of those combinations end up in the same place I want to be with a warm melodic sound? Thank you.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi Michael, as a reviewer we can be guilty of making generalised sweeping statements. It is something I try to avoid but can’t totally eradicate as describing sound is not straightforward. Knowing the sound characteristics you are seeking is half the job IMHO. If you are looking for a warm melancholic sound than you should try to build a system that has that tonality. Start with the speakers as that has the biggest influence on sound and needs to work in your room. Classic British monitors have the warmth you seek but not the Buchardt S400 Mk2. Then try to find out what amplifier works well with that speaker to get the best out of it and retain the tonal character you seek. If you get stuck and need some help, by all means check out my Patreon. I would be glad to help. www.patreon.com/abritishaudiophile

[@michaelswitzer3186]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 Thanks, and I just did,

[@vinylveteran]

Hi Tarun, I just came across your channel recently and really like your way of presentation and explaining stuff for the non audiophiles. I would be interested what your take on EQ in a system is? I have an old ADC SS450X sound shaper sitting in my system and no matter which of my amp/speaker combos I'm using I tend to balance the weaknesses with the EQ to get a sound that I like. I might be tempted to ask myself why investing in the Buchardt S400s (which are high on my wishlist) or another amp when pretty much could be done with EQing? I know for lot of audiophiles that's a no-go - but again, would be interested what you think about it. Maybe a video about it some day? ;) Cheers, Boris

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Boris. That would be a good topic for a future video 👍

[@williamsiu6291]

Great review we’ll done Tarun. Judging by how the cable and track run, I’d guess that one side of the heat sink will be the rectifier bridge, and dc regulators for +ve and -ve voltage, and one the right hand side would prolly be, as other suggested, the LM3886 or similar and you won’t see PNP NPN in pairs because it’s an opamp

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you William. Much appreciated 😊👍

[@rm4474]

Thanks for the review. Currently the Rotel A11 Tribute, Arcam SA10 or a Rega IO are available to me for the same price (good sale on the SA10). Given the choice I would be curious which you would prefer. I should clarify, that I am not concerned about features just the best sounding amp, keeping mind they are the same price.. I was debating getting an IOTAVX PA3 and use my Marantz NR1403 as a pre-amp but I suspect I would be selling myself short.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you. Hopefully, I will get to review those amps in time. My current benchmark around this price is the Cambridge Audio AXA35. Link attached 😊 kzbin.info/www/bejne/o5rPgYt9nNWigJY

[@supergiddy3]

Hi Tarun. This amp sounds right up my alley. The character described reminds me a lot of you Atoll in80 review. Could you shed some light on how they compare?

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

I was thinking the same thing through filming this review. The IN80 Signature is more resolving and has better control. It would be interesting to compare it to the SA20 😊

[@MrBonger88]

An Arcam Alpha 7 was the piece of kit that started my audiophile journey. It was my first piece away from the mass produced receivers that were popular in the 90’s. I really miss it. It was simple and sounded pretty good too. What I really wanted was one of the Arcam FMJ integrated amps. They were just too expensive for me at the time

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you for sharing 😊

[@Plastpackad]

I had a FMJ 38. Pitch black background and very good speaker control, but lacking in tonality and timbre. Also had the Alpha 9. Prefer my Denon pma-2000r or any vintage Sony or Luxman amps. Have no experience with the modern Arcam line.

[@TheMasterofComment]

I have an old arcam alpha 8, and am wondering if it makes sense to upgrade to a newer unit? Has amplifier technology progressed much for it make a difference?

[@JanPippel]

Thanks for that review… Pair the Arcam with a cheap Acoustic Energy AE100 Mk.ll, love that combination. I wish somedays i can get my hands on a pair of Quads Pre34 and 306 or Croft‘s Micro25 and Series 7 pre/power combos. Somedays…

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you for sharing 😊

[@1x3dil]

Hi Tarun. Regards equipment that I should have bought , I’d definitely say in the early 70s when I started on my hifi journey I should have waited and saved up more money for a linn turntable . Instead I went for a gold ring lenco 75 , if I just had waited ! I would have saved a lot of money over the years on different decks . But hindsight is a wonderful thing , and who knows if I would have kept it anyway . Even the lenco is proving popular with some people to upgrade , and of course that to has long gone to . I have the 6000a and find it more than enough for my needs , along with the matching CD transport . Best wishes and kind regards as always to your good self. 😀👍👍😃

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Great anecdote. Thank you Michael 👍

[@daveweston403]

Thanks for the informative and engaging review Tarun. I’m fairly new to the world of high-end audio but I will definitely consider Arcam in future. In your opinion how does the SA10 stack up against the Rotel A14?

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Dave. I haven’t heard the current Rotel A14 but I am hoping to get some in for review 😊

[@thomasward00]

Rotel A11 and A12 are on the Bright side, opposite to the Arcam which like Cambridge Audio is Warm British sound.

[@ShurovAnt]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 Have you heard the previous one (MK I)? After upgrading to it from Denon PMA800, I can't understand its sound signature, it sounds a bit dull and lean. Or is it what "neutral" actually sounds like? Listening on Elacs UB52, but also have old MA Bronze 2 in a closet (haven't pared them to Rotel yet)

[@thomasward00]

@@ShurovAnt bought a pair of Paradigm speakers months ago, everyone claimed Neutral, darned things burned my ears and gave me. Headache they were bright.

[@markmawhinney4440]

@@ShurovAnt I had a pair of MA Bronze 2s with the Arcam SA20 before upgrading to Quad S2s. Overall it was a good combination but I found the SA20 wasn't warm enough to tame the very bright tweeter on the Bronze 2. So either the SA20 isn't as warm as the Arcams of old or the Bronze 2 treble is very harsh. Possibly both.

[@Simon_Hawkshaw]

Many thanks for this insightful review.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Simon 😊

[@Simon_Hawkshaw]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 you're most welcome. You have the knack of keeping your reviews entailing and on point.

[@thedarkknight1971]

I'm STILL REALLY HAPPY with my 'Daily driver' - a fully serviced 1989 Technics SU-600 'New Class A' Integrated amp (Specs available online). It STILL drives, sounds and details brilliantly 👌. And you can still get good ones for £60-£120. 😏 😎🇬🇧

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Cool 😎

[@davefreeh2892]

Tarun, thanks again for great info. Have you ever reviewed Naim integrated amps? I like British amps and would be interested in your take on the sound of their products. Thank you for the great work. Dave Avon, Ohio, USA

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Dave. I am down to review one in the near future 😊

[@sylvio1980]

Hello ! Great content as usual ! Very interesting amplifier but I just can’t get over the volume knob being on the left, It just doesn’t look right. Silly, I know.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you. It me some time to get used to it too 😊👍

[@pliiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii]

Great great review like usual I almost bought an arcane before buying my SUGDEN. I don't remember the name of it but it was priced in the 4000 pounds ish on sale for half price ! When I called they weren't any left

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you buddy. Sugden was another brand I lusted after in my youth but couldn’t afford 😊

[@pliiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii]

Same my first amp I got was an old Sansui that belonged to my dad I had a touch sensitive technics equalizer 🔥🔥 😂 oh how I marvelled at that thing ahahah

[@markmawhinney4440]

I have an SA20 (Class G) partnered with a pair of Quad S2s. No complaints. The SA20 replaced an elderly NAD C320. While the Arcam is not quite as punchy as the NAD with large scale orchestral works, it is more detailed and refined and suits a wider variety of music.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you for sharing Mark 😊

[@Alextraz]

Nice to see someone reviewing arcam....indeed it is very rare. I bought my first and till now unchanged system in 2014: arcam A19, irdac and Kef R300. In the years i always got the desire for update but no mater what i was listening i never found something in reasonable price range to have that warm vibe that obviously i like. I will be happy if you manage to review sa20 or evern 30 as those are class G amps and rhe lat one with the dirac might be the way to for me. What do you think will be biggest update in my case? New amp, new speakers or new dac like toppling d70. Currently i am looking for a streamer because i would like to change the way i do it now....playing spotify from tv. Bluesound node seems nice (it just work) but will be happy for any suggestions

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

I think you have a well balanced system. I wouldn’t be in a hurry to upgrade until you want to take things to the next level. That will be a whole new system. The Node seems like a good idea though 😊

[@Alextraz]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 will be happy to hear what you have in mind in next level..just a hint ;)

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

@@Alextraz that is where it starts to get expensive. You may like the Dynaudio Special 40s with a Hegel H190. It will share similar sonic characteristics to what you have but take performance to another level 😊

[@Cousins08]

Great review, Tarun. I'm looking to upgrade my amp soon but the Arcam SA10 might be above my price range for now. Generally speaking, is there a big difference between the best amps around the £450 price range and the £700 price range? Cheers

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you buddy. Generally speaking, not a big difference. The Iota VX SA3 is great value at £399 😊

[@Cousins08]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 Thank you mate, I'll check that out!

[@AT-wl9yq]

I have to disagree on that one. If the rest of your system has enough resolution, you should have no problem hearing real differences between the amps in your price range. Listen before you buy so you don't have any surprises.

[@No_Limits_411]

Hello Tarun! I am curious. Do you make a video-review of everything that you get your hands on? Or perhaps some products you let slide, that you like less? The one that got away from me is Iota VX. I got SMSL DA-9. Thank you.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you. I appreciate the suggestion 😊