If the idea of a hi-fi system consisting simply of a streaming amplifier and a pair of speakers appeals to you, this excellent hi-fi deal could brighten up your day.
The five-star Arcam S30 streaming amplifier is now just £1699 at Electric Shop (opens in new tab) thanks to a 30 percent discount, making it one of the most affordable just-add speaker systems at this level. And maybe even the cream of the crop if you like a smooth sounding and traditional looking hi-fi.
We tested the Arcam SA30 for £1999 in 2020, but like many hi-fi electronics the MSRP has since risen – in this case to £2299. You can still find the SA30 for that lower figure, but £1699 is the lowest price to which we have seen him descend.
The Arcam SA30 is one of the best hi-fi systems of its kind, combining an attractive traditional design with solid, smooth and open performance and as many modern features as you could reasonably hope for. That’s why we’ve awarded it five stars (you can read our full Arcam S30 review here), and why we’re bringing this generous discount to your attention.
Being a stereo amplifier with built-in streaming, the SA30 fulfills many functions. AirPlay allows music to be streamed directly from iOS devices, while Google Chromecast allows for equally simple one-touch streaming from compatible apps such as Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz, Deezer and TuneIn Radio. UPnP streaming is on the menu for those with networked music libraries, and physical connections ranging from line-level RCA and MM/MC phono to coaxial and HDMI allow for connecting turntables, TVs and the like.
Add to that extensive file support (including MQA) and built-in Dirac room correction and you have one of the most versatile streaming amplifiers on the market. And also one of the best sounding. While we find the (more expensive) Naim Uniti Atom to be the more musical machine of the two, the Arcam sounds very mature – open, smooth, detailed and muscular. If you can forgive the slight lack of power and reliance on third-party streaming services and control apps (it doesn’t have its own), it’s a great option at this discounted price.
Combine it with speakers such as the KEF LS50 Meta or Triangle Borea BR08 and, mark our words, you have a neat hi-fi system to be proud of.
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Do you have a smaller budget? You still can save 45% on this five-star streaming amplifier from Marantz
Read our full Arcam SA30 review
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