Audio T Verdict
The Advance Paris PlayStream A7 combines powerful Class A/B amplification with high-resolution network streaming, DAB+/FM radio, HDMI ARC and a remarkably comprehensive selection of analogue and digital connections.
Its 115W-per-channel output, High-Bias mode, configurable MM and MC phono stage, twin subwoofer outputs and separate PRE-OUT and AMP-IN connections give it the flexibility to support a serious modern Hi-Fi system.
It is particularly appealing for listeners who want streaming, vinyl, radio and television sound from one substantial amplifier without giving up conventional source connections or future upgrade options.
Advance Paris PlayStream A7 Streaming Amplifier
The Advance Paris PlayStream A7 is a connected stereo integrated amplifier combining traditional Class A/B amplification with network streaming, digital-to-analogue conversion and radio reception.
It can access music through Ethernet or Wi-Fi, receive FM and DAB+ radio, play compatible files from USB storage and connect a wide selection of analogue and digital source equipment.
HDMI ARC also allows compatible television sound to be reproduced through the main Hi-Fi loudspeakers.
Class A/B Amplification
The PlayStream A7 uses a conventional Class A/B power-amplifier design rather than the Class D amplification found in many compact connected amplifiers.
Advance Paris rates the amplifier at 115W per channel into an 8-ohm load.
This provides useful power reserves for a broad range of compatible standmount and floorstanding loudspeakers.
The final suitability of any amplifier and loudspeaker combination will depend on speaker sensitivity, impedance behaviour, room size, listening distance and preferred volume.
Match the Amplifier to Your Loudspeakers
Power figures alone cannot establish how an amplifier and loudspeaker will perform together.
An Audio T demonstration can confirm whether the PlayStream A7 provides the control, tonal balance and listening level required by your chosen speakers.
Selectable High-Bias Mode
A rear-panel High-Bias switch increases the standing bias of the amplifier’s output stage.
When enabled, Advance Paris describes the first watts as operating in a manner comparable with Class A before the amplifier transitions into normal Class A/B operation as more output is required.
High-Bias operation increases heat generation, so the amplifier must be installed with suitable ventilation around its top and sides.
Toroidal Power Transformer
A toroidal transformer supplies the PlayStream A7’s amplification, digital and control circuits.
Toroidal transformers are commonly used in high-quality Hi-Fi equipment for their strong power-delivery capability and relatively low external magnetic field.
The amplifier must be configured for the correct local mains voltage before use.
PCM1796 Digital-to-Analogue Converter
The current Advance Paris and Audio T specifications identify the internal DAC as a PCM1796.
It handles compatible signals received through the optical and coaxial digital inputs, together with supported network, USB and HDMI sources.
This allows compatible digital equipment to connect directly without requiring a separate external DAC.
Ethernet and Wi-Fi Network Streaming
The PlayStream A7 connects to a home network through either its RJ45 Ethernet socket or Wi-Fi connection.
A wired Ethernet connection is recommended where practical because it can provide particularly stable network operation.
Wi-Fi offers greater installation flexibility where running a network cable is impractical.
The network player can access supported streaming services, internet radio and suitable music libraries stored on computers or network-attached storage devices.
Advance PlayStream App
The Advance PlayStream app is available for compatible iOS and Android devices.
It provides access to network music, supported streaming services, internet radio, playlists, favourites and compatible multiroom functions.
The phone or tablet and the PlayStream A7 must be connected to the same home network.
Spotify Connect
Spotify Connect allows the PlayStream A7 to be selected as the playback device from within the Spotify app.
Once playback begins, the amplifier receives the stream using its own network connection rather than relying on a continuous Bluetooth connection from the phone.
A compatible Spotify account and active internet connection are required.
Supported Streaming Services
Advance Paris lists services including Spotify, Qobuz, TIDAL and Deezer through the PlayStream platform.
Internet-radio services are also available through the network player.
Streaming-service availability, subscriptions and maximum playback quality can change over time, so continued support should be confirmed where a particular service is essential.
Subscriptions Are Separate
Premium streaming subscriptions are not included with the PlayStream A7.
The available catalogue, account requirements and maximum playback quality are controlled by each service provider.
AirPlay and DLNA Compatibility
AirPlay support allows compatible Apple devices and computers to send music to the PlayStream A7 through the home network.
DLNA compatibility allows the amplifier to access suitable music libraries shared by computers, media servers and network-attached storage devices.
Advance Paris does not currently specify AirPlay 2, built-in Chromecast or Roon Ready certification for this model.
Compatible Multiroom Playback
The PlayStream platform supports compatible multiroom operation with other suitable Advance Paris network products.
Compatible products can play different music in separate rooms or be grouped for synchronised playback.
Multiroom reliability will depend on the home network and the capabilities of the connected products.
USB-A Music Playback
A USB-A connection allows music to be played from a compatible USB memory stick or portable storage device.
Published file support includes formats such as:
The memory device and files must use a format supported by the amplifier and its installed firmware.
Larger music libraries may be more conveniently stored on a compatible NAS drive and accessed through the network player.
Built-In DAB+ Radio
The integrated DAB and DAB+ tuner provides access to compatible digital radio broadcasts.
The tuner can scan for available services and store stations for convenient future access.
Reception quality will depend on local transmitter coverage, building construction and antenna position.
Built-In FM Radio
A conventional FM tuner is also included for analogue radio broadcasts.
Automatic station scanning and preset storage can be controlled with the supplied remote control.
The radio antenna should be positioned for the strongest available reception.
Five RCA Line Inputs
The PlayStream A7 provides five conventional stereo RCA line inputs for compatible analogue source equipment.
These inputs can accommodate products such as:
- CD and SACD players
- External network streamers
- External DACs
- Cassette decks
- Radio tuners
- Separate phono stages
Each connected component must provide a normal line-level analogue output.
Configurable MM and MC Phono Stage
A separate stereo phono input allows a compatible turntable to connect directly.
The phono stage can be configured for:
- Moving-magnet cartridges
- High-output moving-coil cartridges
- Low-output moving-coil cartridges
A grounding terminal is provided for turntables fitted with a separate earth lead.
Advance Paris does not publish detailed gain, loading or capacitance figures for every phono setting, so cartridge compatibility should be confirmed before purchase.
Select the Correct Cartridge Setting
Choose MM, MC High or MC Low before playing a record.
An incorrect setting may produce an excessively quiet or loud signal and unsuitable electrical loading for the cartridge.
Three Optical Digital Inputs
Three optical Toslink inputs allow compatible digital sources to use the PlayStream A7’s internal DAC.
Optical connections are commonly found on televisions, games consoles, CD players and network streamers.
The published specification supports compatible PCM signals up to 24-bit/96kHz through the optical inputs.
A connected television or video source may need to be configured for stereo PCM rather than bitstream or multichannel audio.
Coaxial Digital Input
One coaxial S/PDIF input is provided for a compatible CD transport, network player or other digital source.
The published specification supports compatible PCM signals up to 24-bit/192kHz.
Use a purpose-designed 75-ohm coaxial digital cable rather than one half of a conventional analogue RCA interconnect pair.
HDMI ARC for Television Sound
An HDMI ARC connection allows the PlayStream A7 to receive stereo audio from a compatible television.
This provides a convenient way to reproduce television programmes, films and connected video sources through the main Hi-Fi loudspeakers.
The television may need to be configured to output stereo PCM rather than a multichannel or bitstream audio format.
Check the Television Settings
Connect the amplifier to the television socket specifically labelled ARC and enable HDMI ARC within the television menu.
If no sound is heard, change the television’s digital-audio output to stereo PCM.
ARC Rather Than eARC
The PlayStream A7 uses HDMI ARC rather than the newer HDMI eARC format.
ARC is suitable for the compatible stereo audio signals required by the amplifier, but it should not be presented as supporting advanced multichannel home cinema formats.
The PlayStream A7 is a two-channel amplifier and does not contain multichannel surround processing.
Optional Bluetooth Reception
Bluetooth is not built into the standard PlayStream A7 supplied by Audio T.
Bluetooth playback requires one of the separately available Advance Paris receiver modules:
- X-FTB01 with aptX
- X-FTB02 with aptX HD and additional supported codecs
The optional receiver connects directly to the dedicated rear-panel socket and passes the signal to the amplifier’s internal digital circuitry.
Stereo PRE-OUT
A variable stereo RCA PRE-OUT allows the PlayStream A7 to feed a compatible external power amplifier.
The A7 can continue to handle network streaming, source selection, digital conversion and volume control while the external amplifier drives the loudspeakers.
This provides a useful route for future system expansion.
AMP-IN Power-Amplifier Input
The stereo RCA AMP-IN connection provides direct access to the PlayStream A7’s power-amplifier section.
It can be used with a compatible external preamplifier, controller or AV receiver fitted with front-left and front-right preamplifier outputs.
When AMP-IN is active, volume must be controlled by the connected preamplifier or processor.
Home Cinema Integration
The AMP-IN connection allows the PlayStream A7 to power the main front-left and front-right loudspeakers within a compatible home cinema system.
This means the same speakers can be used for dedicated stereo listening and multichannel film sound.
Channel levels must be calibrated carefully through the connected AV receiver or processor.
Fixed REC-OUT
A fixed-level stereo REC-OUT can feed a compatible cassette deck, recorder or other recording device.
The record-output signal does not follow the main amplifier volume control.
REC-OUT must not be connected directly to a power amplifier because it does not provide variable volume adjustment.
Two Subwoofer Outputs
Two RCA outputs allow one or two compatible active subwoofers to be connected.
The connected subwoofers must contain their own amplification.
The PlayStream A7 does not provide comprehensive digital bass management, so crossover frequency, gain, phase and positioning should be adjusted using the controls provided by the subwoofer.
Speaker A and Speaker B Outputs
Two stereo sets of binding posts allow Speaker A, Speaker B or both pairs to be selected.
This can support a second loudspeaker pair or allow the listener to switch between two compatible speaker systems.
When two pairs are used simultaneously, their combined electrical load must remain suitable for the amplifier.
Take Care When Using Two Speaker Pairs
Operating Speaker A and Speaker B together can present a more demanding load than using either pair independently.
Check the nominal impedance of both pairs and speak to Audio T before running them together if compatibility is uncertain.
Speaker-Cable Connections
The loudspeaker terminals accept properly prepared bare wire, suitable pin connectors, compatible spade connectors and 4mm banana plugs.
Switch the amplifier off before connecting or disconnecting loudspeaker cables.
Ensure that no exposed conductor strands can bridge between adjacent terminals.
Maintaining Correct Speaker Polarity
Connect the right-channel amplifier terminals to the right loudspeaker and the left-channel terminals to the left loudspeaker.
Positive must connect to positive and negative to negative for both channels.
Reversing the polarity of one loudspeaker can weaken central stereo imaging and reduce bass performance.
Two Headphone Outputs
The front panel provides both 6.35mm and 3.5mm stereo headphone connections.
This allows many conventional wired headphones to connect without requiring an adapter.
Reduce the volume before inserting or removing headphones and begin listening at a low level.
Electrostatic headphones normally require a separate specialist energiser and cannot be driven directly.
12V Trigger Outputs
Two 12V trigger outputs allow compatible external equipment to coordinate its power state with the PlayStream A7.
This can be useful when the PRE-OUT is connected to an additional power amplifier or another compatible product.
Trigger connections carry control voltage rather than audio and require suitable trigger cables.
Tone, Balance and Loudness Controls
The system menu provides adjustment for bass, treble, stereo balance and loudness.
These controls can compensate for room acoustics, speaker positioning, recording balance or low-volume listening.
A bypass option removes the tone adjustments from the signal path when they are not required.
Automatic Standby
An automatic power-down function can place the amplifier into standby after approximately 30 minutes without operation.
The feature can be disabled through the system menu where required.
Firmware and Service Updates
A dedicated update connection is provided for firmware and operating-system maintenance.
Only official files intended specifically for the PlayStream A7 should be installed.
Do not interrupt the power supply while an authorised update is taking place.
Illuminated VU Meters
Two illuminated VU meters dominate the PlayStream A7’s gloss-black front panel.
The meters provide a visual indication of amplifier activity and give the A7 the distinctive neo-retro appearance associated with Advance Paris.
The central display and multifunction control provide access to source selection, volume and operating settings.
No Built-In CD Player
The PlayStream A7 is a streaming amplifier and tuner but does not contain an integrated CD mechanism.
A separate CD player or transport can be connected through a compatible analogue, optical or coaxial input.
PlayStream A5 or PlayStream A7?
The PlayStream A7 is the more powerful and extensively connected model.
Compared with the A5, it increases the official 8-ohm power rating from 80W to 115W per channel, adds HDMI ARC and provides a second set of loudspeaker terminals.
The A5 remains suitable where one speaker pair, optical television audio and its lower output meet the system requirements.
Installation and Ventilation
The PlayStream A7 measures 430mm wide, 135mm high and 370mm deep, with a published net weight of 9.3kg.
Place it on a stable, level equipment shelf with enough space for the amplifier and its rear-panel connections.
Keep all ventilation openings clear, particularly when High-Bias mode is enabled.
Do not install the amplifier inside a sealed cabinet or beneath equipment that blocks rising warm air.
Key Features
- Connected stereo integrated amplifier
- Class A/B amplification
- Selectable High-Bias mode
- 115W per channel into 8 ohms
- Toroidal power transformer
- PCM1796 digital-to-analogue converter
- Ethernet network connection
- Wi-Fi network streaming
- Advance PlayStream app control
- Spotify Connect
- Supported Qobuz, TIDAL and Deezer integration
- Internet radio
- AirPlay compatibility
- DLNA network playback
- Compatible multiroom operation
- USB-A music-file playback
- Compatible MP3, WAV, FLAC, ALAC and AAC playback
- Built-in DAB and DAB+ tuner
- Built-in FM tuner
- Five stereo RCA line inputs
- Configurable MM, MC High and MC Low phono stage
- Turntable ground terminal
- Three optical digital inputs
- Optical PCM support up to 24-bit/96kHz
- One coaxial digital input
- Coaxial PCM support up to 24-bit/192kHz
- HDMI ARC television connection
- Optional X-FTB01 or X-FTB02 Bluetooth receiver
- Variable stereo PRE-OUT
- Stereo AMP-IN
- Fixed-level REC-OUT
- Two active-subwoofer outputs
- Speaker A and Speaker B terminals
- Bare-wire, pin, spade and banana-plug compatibility
- Two wired headphone outputs
- 6.35mm and 3.5mm headphone sockets
- Two 12V trigger outputs
- Bass, treble, balance and loudness adjustment
- Tone-control bypass
- Automatic standby
- Dual illuminated VU meters
- Remote control included
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Advance Paris PlayStream A7?
It is a stereo integrated amplifier with built-in Ethernet and Wi-Fi streaming, DAB+/FM radio, HDMI ARC, digital-to-analogue conversion and a configurable MM/MC phono stage.
How powerful is it?
The current international Advance Paris and Audio T specifications rate it at 115W per channel into 8 ohms.
Why is no 4-ohm output shown?
Current regional sources publish conflicting power figures. The 4-ohm rating has therefore not been presented as a definitive specification on this page.
What type of amplification does it use?
It uses Class A/B amplification with a selectable High-Bias mode.
What does High-Bias mode do?
It increases the standing bias so that the amplifier behaves in a manner comparable with Class A over its first watts before transitioning into normal Class A/B operation.
What DAC does it use?
The current Advance Paris and Audio T specifications identify a PCM1796 DAC.
Does it have built-in music streaming?
Yes. It connects through Ethernet or Wi-Fi and can be controlled using the Advance PlayStream app.
Does it support Spotify Connect?
Yes. It can be selected as a playback device within the Spotify app.
Does it support AirPlay?
Yes. AirPlay compatibility is specified for suitable Apple devices connected to the same network.
Does it support AirPlay 2?
AirPlay 2 is not currently specified for the PlayStream A7.
Can it play music from a NAS drive?
Yes, provided the music library is shared through a compatible network-media system and is visible to the PlayStream A7.
Can it play music from a USB memory stick?
Yes. Compatible music files can be played through its USB-A connection.
Does it have DAB+ and FM radio?
Yes. DAB/DAB+ and FM tuners are both built in.
Does it have a phono stage?
Yes. It can be configured for moving-magnet, high-output moving-coil or low-output moving-coil cartridges.
How many analogue inputs does it have?
It provides five stereo RCA line inputs plus a separate configurable phono input.
How many conventional digital inputs does it have?
It provides three optical Toslink inputs and one coaxial S/PDIF input.
Does it have USB-B computer audio?
No. Its USB audio connection is intended for compatible storage devices rather than direct USB-B computer audio.
Does it have HDMI ARC?
Yes. HDMI ARC allows stereo television audio to be reproduced through the Hi-Fi system.
Does it have HDMI eARC?
No. The PlayStream A7 uses HDMI ARC rather than eARC.
Does it have Bluetooth built in?
No. Bluetooth requires the separately available Advance Paris X-FTB01 or X-FTB02 receiver.
Can it be used with an external power amplifier?
Yes. A variable stereo PRE-OUT is provided.
Can it be used as a power amplifier?
Yes. AMP-IN provides direct access to the PlayStream A7’s power-amplifier section.
Can it be used in a home cinema system?
Yes. A compatible AV receiver or processor can feed AMP-IN for the main front-left and front-right loudspeakers.
How many subwoofers can be connected?
One or two compatible active subwoofers can be connected through the two RCA subwoofer outputs.
How many pairs of speakers can it power?
It provides Speaker A and Speaker B outputs for two compatible stereo loudspeaker pairs.
Can both speaker pairs be used together?
Yes, provided their combined electrical load is suitable for the amplifier.
Which speaker-cable connections are supported?
The terminals accept properly prepared bare wire, pin connectors, compatible spades and 4mm banana plugs.
Does it have headphone outputs?
Yes. Both 6.35mm and 3.5mm wired headphone sockets are provided.
Does it include a CD player?
No. A separate CD player or transport can be connected through a compatible analogue or digital input.
How large and heavy is it?
It measures 430mm wide, 135mm high and 370mm deep, with a published net weight of 9.3kg.
Related Advance Paris Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Independent advice from experienced Hi-Fi specialists
- PlayStream A7 and loudspeaker system matching
- In-store demonstrations at participating branches
- Home network and streaming setup guidance
- Turntable and cartridge compatibility advice
- HDMI ARC television setup support
- DAB, FM and antenna setup guidance
- External power-amplifier and AMP-IN advice
- Subwoofer selection and integration support
- Speaker-cable and interconnect recommendations
- Click and Reserve from participating stores
- Nationwide UK delivery on eligible products
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss matching the Advance Paris PlayStream A7 with your loudspeakers, turntable, television and home network.