Cambridge-based Hi-Fi pioneer, Arcam, has set a new standard in audio performance with the release of its Radia Series, featuring a range of five innovative products designed to appeal to both audiophiles and newcomers to luxury audio systems. 

Announced by the Harman Luxury Audio Group, the parent company of Arcam, the Radia Series introduces a fresh industrial design, emphasizing sleek aesthetics while maintaining a focus on delivering impressive audio quality.

While Arcam's storied history spans nearly half a century, the Radia Series signals a forward-looking approach, targeting a new generation of audio enthusiasts with its innovative design and cutting-edge technology. This series aims to redefine Arcam's image, emphasizing a blend of remarkable sound quality, British heritage, and affordability.

The Radia Series comprises three integrated amplifiers – the A5, A15, and A25 – in addition to the CD5 CD player and the ST5 high-resolution streamer. The series draws its name from the vibrant Radia Yellow, a color that injects fresh energy into Arcam's product portfolio. Each model features meticulously crafted aluminum shells, redesigned controls, and captivating lighting effects, all intended to convey a sense of power and finesse.

The new mantra associated with these products, "Be The Centre Of The Music," aligns with Harman's broader development philosophy, centered around delivering amazing sound, preserving British heritage, and making luxury audio attainable for a wider audience.

Jim Garrett, senior director of product strategy and planning for Harman Luxury Audio, said: “In addition to a sleek new design that will define Arcam’s image for years to come, with the Radia family we’ve renewed our focus on intimate performance and embraced the very latest audio technologies. For today’s audio enthusiasts, especially younger ones looking to get into a luxury audio system at a reasonable cost, the resulting solutions surpass not only our past offerings but any product that’s come before.”

Delving into the technical specifications of the Radia Series, all three Arcam Radia amplifiers boast Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX Adaptive, internal antennas, and a comprehensive array of inputs, including Arcam's signature MM phono stage. 

The A5 and A15 employ Class AB amplification, offering 2x50W and 2x100W output respectively into 8 ohms, complemented by new digital circuitry based on the ESS ES9018 DAC. The flagship A25 takes it up a notch with a Class G amplifier and an ES9280AQ DAC, delivering up to 2x100W output, promising a higher level of audio fidelity.

The CD5 CD player adheres to the traditional CD playback options while also embracing modernity with USB compatibility for Hi-Res support, accommodating FLAC, WAV, and MP3 formats up to 24-bit / 192kHz. It features the same ES9018 DAC as the A5 and A15 amplifiers.

The ST5 high-resolution streamer is an ideal companion for the A5 and A15 amplifiers. It comes equipped with Apple AirPlay 2 and built-in Chromecast, granting access to popular streaming services such as Qobuz, Amazon Music, Spotify Connect, and Tidal Connect. 

Furthermore, it supports MQA and is Roon Ready, offering versatile connectivity options through Wi-Fi and Ethernet. A new companion app enhances user experience by simplifying setup and adding preset internet radio stations, among other features.

The much-anticipated Arcam Radia Series is slated for release later this October. The integrated amplifiers will be available starting at £749 (€849 / $699) for the A5, £1,099 (€1,249 / $999) for the A15, and £1,499 (€1,799 / $1,499) for the A25. The CD5 CD player will retail for £699 (€799 / $699), while the ST5 streamer is priced at £799 (€949 / $799). For more information and details about authorized dealers, interested buyers can visit the Arcam website.