Arcam SA20 Integrated Amplifier (OPEN) Reviews

4 Rating 1 Reviews

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Phone:

909.931.9686

Email:

joel.m@upscaleaudio.com

Location:

2058 Wright Avenue,
2058 Wright Avenue
California
91750

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Peter Groenewold

Verified Reviewer

“I'm using this integrated amp in my basement workshop system to drive either a pair of Dali Spektor 2s or KEF LS50 Metas. Both pairs of speakers have efficiencies in the 85ish dB range so are relatively power-hungry for their size. In my experience with these speakers, the Arcam sounds pleasant at low to medium sound volumes. As I turn up the volume, female vocals become harsh and strident. Is this due to the integrated amp, the speakers, or both? Regardless, you don't get that sense of ease at high volumes that you would with a high-wattage amp or even a decent quality tube amp like the Primaluna. This is not a knock against the Arcam, but a suggestion that you have realistic expectations. To me it's a nice system for a dorm room, a bedroom, or an apartment. The other minor knock is the somewhat cryptic names of some of the inputs. One is labeled "STB." That apparently stands for "set top box." Still, it's nice that it has an onboard DAC with a pair of digital inputs. Overall, a decent amp for the money and worth looking at if its features meet your needs.”

Helpful Report

Posted 11 months ago