Arcam A5 or A15?

Ozborg

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Nov 20, 2024
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I would like some advise on which which amplifier would best suit my system. am looking for a new amplifier and I like the new Arcam series, I am in doubt whether to choose the A5 or A15. The other components in my set are: Phono: Audio-Technica AT-LP5X; CD: Marantz CD6007; Speakers: KEF Q750. Pricewise the A15 is in a different class, should I therefore choose the A5? Would greatly appreciate your opinions on this.
 
I would like some advise on which which amplifier would best suit my system. am looking for a new amplifier and I like the new Arcam series, I am in doubt whether to choose the A5 or A15. The other components in my set are: Phono: Audio-Technica AT-LP5X; CD: Marantz CD6007; Speakers: KEF Q750. Pricewise the A15 is in a different class, should I therefore choose the A5? Would greatly appreciate your opinions on this.
You say you like the new Arcam amps. Have you heard them?
If not go audition.
Nobody here can tell you how to spend your money, although many will try!
I am not sure what the difference is between these two amplifiers by the way apart from price.
I would be asking why you want an amp with inbuilt DAC and an inbuilt phono stage when you already have one in your turntable and one in your CD player.
That said, and if you have plenty of LPs, buy the cheaper amp and spend money on upgrading your turntable. :)
 
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Noddy

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I would like some advise on which which amplifier would best suit my system. am looking for a new amplifier and I like the new Arcam series, I am in doubt whether to choose the A5 or A15. The other components in my set are: Phono: Audio-Technica AT-LP5X; CD: Marantz CD6007; Speakers: KEF Q750. Pricewise the A15 is in a different class, should I therefore choose the A5? Would greatly appreciate your opinions on this.
Realistically the only difference should be power and connections. I see Richer Sounds give a 6 year warranty on both, that’s nice, my Arcam blew after a few years. There’s an A5 elsewhere with a dented packing box at a good price. Oh yes, and best to demo one at home.
 
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Whilst I invariably enjoy the benefits of a more powerful amplifier with any speaker, there is no logical reason that you need more than 50wpc with your KEFs unless you live in a huge house or play at stadium levels.

If you are considering changing speakers or sources then one might think again, and bear in mind as pointed out above you don’t need several of the features the Arcam includes. But it looks nice and is well reviewed, so go listen!
 
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speedthing

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Apr 2, 2024
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I have the A15 and im running it with AE320 floor standers i love the sound very smooth the new Arcams are more detailed than the older ones you really need to pair them with the right speakers they run very nicely with 3 ways
 

gasolin

Well-known member
Get the most power full amp the A15, since the spakers go down to under 4 ohm and you want stability without using all the power when playing loud or bass heavy music

I guess you like it a little loud and a little bass with the kind of speakers you have
 
Get the most power full amp the A15, since the spakers go down to under 4 ohm and you want stability without using all the power when playing loud or bass heavy music

I guess you like it a little loud and a little bass with the kind of speakers you have

The fact his speakers may occasionally dip below 4 ohm is no reason at all to buy the more expensive amp.
To be honest he doesn't need either of these...
 
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I'm not qualified to speak about these new Arcs, as I've not heard them. But I suppose it depends how loud you play your music will dictate the choice of amps. Bear in mind the OPs Kefs dip to 3.8 ohms (according to the Kef website). Only a demo will tell you which of the Arcams is best suited to your room and volume requirements.
 

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