The large information within the What Hello-Fi? Awards’ stereo amplifier class this 12 months is the reemergence of Arcam as a power to the reckoned with. Whereas amplifiers have all the time been on the very core of Arcam’s product vary, it’s truthful to say that in recent times the corporate’s multi-channel AV merchandise have hogged the limelight, leaving its stereo amplifiers, competent as they had been, within the shade. However that each one modifications with the introduction of Arcam’s new Radia vary of merchandise, which contains three stereo integrateds, a CD participant and a music streamer.
We’ve examined two of the stereo amplifiers, the entry-level A5 (£749/$699) and step-up A15 (£1099/$999, pictured high), and every units new requirements at their respective value factors. They handle to oust our long-running favourites, the Cambridge CXA61 and CXA81, from the profitable line-up, which is sort of some feat contemplating how the Cambridge duo has seen off all-comers in recent times. Rega’s glorious Elex Mk 4 is one other robust contender on this a part of the market, however on stability we want the price-comparable A15’s mixture of attributes extra.
Arcam went again to the drafting board with each these merchandise and has provide you with well-equipped items that tick all of the necessary containers. Their connectivity contains moving-magnet phono phases, digital inputs (although not USB) and two-way Bluetooth alongside a headphone output and a trio of line-level inputs. That needs to be sufficient for these amplifiers to fit into just about any price-appropriate stereo system with out subject. Add a refreshingly smooth look and, most significantly, class-leading sound, and you’ve got a pair of amplifiers to savour.
Issues are unchanged on the premium finish of the market, with repeat Finest Purchase wins for each the proficient Naim Nait XS3 (£2499/$3999) and mighty Rega Aethos (£3300/$5395). The previous got here beneath intense strain this 12 months from contemporary rivals comparable to Rega’s Elicit Mk5 and Audiolab’s 9000A, which are literally each usefully cheaper and higher geared up than the Naim. Certainly, in case you actually desire a built-in DAC module (the XS3 doesn’t have one), the Rega is a very interesting choice. Nonetheless, the Naim nonetheless reigns supreme on the subject of efficiency, and the benefit is critical sufficient over these rivals for this well-built amplifier to carry onto its crown for one more 12 months.
On the different finish of the market, the Marantz PM6007 stays our favorite funds choice due to its well-balanced presentation, high quality construct and smart options set. This can be a multi-What Hello-Fi? Award winner at its value level now and continues to supply glorious worth.
However is not our 2023 awards season performed and dusted simply but; on Wednesday fifteenth November, one among these 5 Finest Purchase winners will even take residence the class’s most prestigious Product of the 12 months award. Examine whathifi.com that night (GMT) to seek out out which amplifier has triumphed.
MORE:
See all the What Hello-Fi? Award 2023 winners in each hi-fi and AV class
Take a look at our longer record of the greatest stereo amplifiers you should buy
How to decide on and arrange a stereo amplifier
