Integrated amplifiers — Arcam SA45

The SA45 is a comprehensive network integrated amplifier from Arcam, part of a new generation of models featuring a built-in streamer supporting PCM resolutions up to 32-bit/384kHz alongside DSD256. The SA45 brings Arcam's considered British engineering to a serious, all-in-one network amplification format.

Key specs that matter

One balanced and three single-ended analogue inputs are provided, alongside two dedicated phono inputs. Output power reaches a substantial 2x180W into 8 ohms, rising to 2x300W into 4 ohms. Frequency response spans 20Hz to 20,000Hz within plus-or-minus 3dB. Signal-to-noise ratio is a solid 106dB, with total harmonic distortion plus noise at a low 0.002%. At 432 x 390 x 140mm and 17kg, the SA45 maintains a substantial network-integrated-amplifier chassis reflecting Arcam's considered engineering standards.

Sound and use context

Expect a clean, powerful presentation reflecting the substantial 2x300W-into-4-ohms output combined with the low 0.002% distortion figure, with the built-in high-resolution streamer and dual phono inputs covering both digital and analogue sources within one comprehensive chassis.

Pairing

The dual phono inputs cover two turntables directly without needing external phono stages, and the built-in streamer handles network sources without requiring a separate streaming component.

Alternatives

Arcam's own broader Radia series offers related network-integrated-amplifier alternatives at different scales within the same considered engineering philosophy.