Audio T Verdict
The Arcam SA35 combines the convenience of a modern all-in-one music system with the power, connectivity and upgrade flexibility expected from a serious Hi-Fi separates product.
Its fifth-generation Class G amplifier delivers 120W per channel into 8-ohm loudspeakers, providing the control and headroom needed for a broad range of high-quality standmount and floorstanding speakers.
High-resolution network streaming, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, AirPlay, Google Cast and Roon Ready support are joined by HDMI eARC, Bluetooth, MM and MC phono inputs, dual subwoofer outputs and Dirac Live Room Correction.
It does not include balanced connections, digital outputs, USB computer audio or a wired headphone socket. However, for customers who want to reduce the number of separate boxes without limiting source choice or system performance, the SA35 provides an exceptionally capable foundation.
Arcam Radia SA35 Streaming Integrated Amplifier
The Arcam SA35 combines a network music streamer, digital-to-analogue converter, stereo pre-amplifier, Class G power amplifier, MM and MC phono stages and room-correction system within one full-width component.
Connect a suitable pair of passive loudspeakers and the SA35 can form the centre of a complete system for streaming services, internet radio, vinyl, television sound, digital sources, analogue components and music stored across a home network.
A 6.5-inch high-resolution front display presents album artwork, source information and system settings, while the Arcam Radia app provides network setup, music browsing and control from a compatible phone or tablet.
Fifth-Generation Class G Amplification
Arcam's fifth-generation Class G architecture uses more than one power-supply level to combine low-level refinement with the ability to deliver substantial output during demanding musical passages.
The amplifier operates from its lower-voltage supply during ordinary listening. When the music requires greater power, an additional supply rail becomes available.
This approach provides greater efficiency than running a similarly powerful amplifier continuously in Class A, while retaining the current delivery and dynamic ability needed to control demanding loudspeakers.
Read our
guide to Arcam amplification and Class G technology
for further background.
120W per Channel into 8 Ohms
The SA35 delivers 120W per channel into 8-ohm loudspeakers with both channels operating across the full 20Hz to 20kHz audio range.
This provides useful reserves for larger rooms, less sensitive speakers and customers who enjoy listening at realistic levels.
Arcam specifies harmonic distortion of 0.002% at 80% of the rated 8-ohm output under its stated test conditions.
200W per Channel into 4 Ohms
Output rises to 200W per channel into a 4-ohm load at the manufacturer's stated 1kHz measurement condition.
The increase demonstrates the amplifier's ability to provide additional output as loudspeaker impedance falls.
Nominal impedance is only part of the speaker-matching process, so sensitivity, impedance variation, room size, listening distance and preferred volume should also be considered.
Our
amplifier power and loudspeaker matching guide
explains these specifications in more detail.
The 4-Ohm Figure Is Measured at 1kHz
The 120W rating is specified with both channels driven from 20Hz to 20kHz into 8 ohms.
The 200W rating is specified into 4 ohms at 1kHz and should not be presented as a full-bandwidth measurement.
Linear Toroidal Power Supply
A newly developed linear toroidal power supply supports the amplifier, digital circuitry and streaming platform.
Arcam has designed the power supply to reduce electrical noise around the sensitive audio stages while retaining the current delivery required by the Class G amplifier.
A separate switching supply operates during standby, helping reduce energy consumption when the main amplifier is not in use.
High-Resolution Streaming Platform
The SA35 uses a six-layer digital audio and streaming platform with a continuous ground plane designed to reduce noise and interference.
Compatible streaming and locally stored music can be played at up to 32-bit/384kHz, with DSD supported up to DSD256.
Gapless playback allows live albums, classical works, concept albums and continuous mixes to flow between tracks without an artificial pause.
Spotify, TIDAL and Qobuz Connect
Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect and Qobuz Connect allow the SA35 to be selected directly from within each service's own application.
Music is delivered to the amplifier through the home network rather than being continuously routed through the controlling phone or tablet.
Available resolution and features depend on the chosen service, account, recording and region.
Apple AirPlay and Google Cast
Apple AirPlay allows compatible iPhone, iPad and Mac users to send audio to the SA35 across the home network.
Google Cast provides similar functionality from supported applications on Android, Apple and computer devices.
Both systems provide a convenient way to play from applications that do not offer their own direct Connect integration.
Roon Ready
Roon Ready certification allows the SA35 to operate as a recognised network endpoint within a compatible Roon system.
Roon provides detailed metadata, music discovery, signal-path information, library organisation and multiroom playback.
A separate Roon Server and suitable Roon subscription are required.
The SA35 Is a Roon Endpoint
The amplifier receives music from a separate Roon Server located on a compatible computer, NAS drive or dedicated server.
It does not store or manage a complete Roon library by itself.
Arcam Radia App
The Arcam Radia app guides the initial Wi-Fi setup and provides access to internet radio, podcasts, presets, USB media and compatible music stored on the local network.
The app can also manage playback and provide access to important system settings from a compatible phone or tablet.
The controlling device and amplifier should normally be connected to the same home network.
Internet Radio, Podcasts and UPnP
Internet radio provides access to stations from the UK and around the world without requiring a conventional radio aerial.
Podcast support adds spoken-word programmes, interviews and specialist content through the Radia app.
UPnP compatibility allows the amplifier to access suitable music libraries stored on a computer, NAS drive or other media server connected to the same network.
External Services Can Change
Radio stations, podcasts, streaming services and regional availability may change independently of the amplifier.
Some services require a separate account or paid subscription.
USB Music Playback
A rear USB-A socket accepts a compatible USB flash drive containing supported music files.
Files held on the drive can be browsed and selected using the Arcam Radia app.
Supported formats include AAC, AIFF, ALAC, FLAC, MP3, OGG, WAV, WMA and DSD.
The USB Socket Is Not a Computer Audio Input
The USB-A connection is intended for compatible storage playback and software updates.
The SA35 cannot be connected directly to a computer for operation as a USB DAC.
ESS Hyperstream IV DAC Technology
The digital section uses the latest Hyperstream IV DAC topology from ESS in a balanced internal configuration.
Advanced jitter reduction and the carefully designed six-layer circuit board help protect the conversion stage from timing errors and electrical noise.
Streaming sources and external digital inputs are converted by the SA35 before being passed to its pre-amplifier and Class G power stages.
Selectable DAC Filters
Four selectable DAC filters allow the conversion behaviour to be adjusted.
The options balance frequency response, phase behaviour and pre or post-ringing in different ways.
Audible differences can be subtle and system dependent, so the filters are best compared using familiar recordings.
6.5-Inch High-Resolution Display
The bonded 6.5-inch front display presents album artwork, track information, source selection, presets and system settings.
Its size makes playback information easier to read from a normal listening position than the smaller text displays found on many traditional amplifiers.
Display brightness can be adjusted to suit daytime or evening listening.
Dirac Live Room Correction
Dirac Live measures how the loudspeakers and room interact at the listening position and across the surrounding seating area.
The software can then create a correction filter intended to improve frequency balance, timing and integration within the room.
Multiple measurement positions can be used, and the completed filter is stored within the amplifier for selection from the front screen or audio menu.
Dirac Live Requires Initial Calibration
Calibration is completed using the Dirac Live software on a compatible Windows PC or Mac.
The supplied measurement microphone connects to the computer using the included USB cable. The microphone does not connect directly to the amplifier.
Measurement Microphone Included
Arcam includes a calibrated measurement microphone and five-metre USB cable for the Dirac Live setup process.
The microphone should be positioned at ear height and kept within a clear line of sight of the loudspeakers during each measurement sweep.
Arcam recommends taking at least five measurements across the intended listening area.
Dual Subwoofer Outputs
Two RCA subwoofer outputs allow one or two suitable powered subwoofers to be added.
The Subwoofer Config menu tells the SA35 whether no subwoofer, one subwoofer or a suitable dual-subwoofer arrangement is connected.
Dirac Live can then measure the combined speaker, subwoofer and room response as part of the calibration process.
Browse our range of
powered subwoofers
for suitable system options.
HDMI eARC for Television Sound
HDMI eARC allows a compatible television to send stereo audio to the SA35 through one HDMI cable.
Films, television programmes, games and streaming-video applications can then use the Arcam amplifier and connected Hi-Fi speakers.
Compatible television volume commands can control the SA35, while HDMI Autoswitch can select the television input when playback begins.
Use the Television's ARC or eARC Socket
Connect the cable to the television HDMI socket specifically labelled ARC or eARC.
A conventional HDMI input without Audio Return Channel support will not send television audio back to the amplifier.
The SA35 Is a Stereo Amplifier
The HDMI input is intended for compatible stereo audio rather than surround-sound processing or video switching.
Set the television to stereo PCM if an encoded multichannel signal does not produce sound.
Four Conventional Digital Inputs
Two optical Toslink inputs and two coaxial RCA inputs allow suitable external digital sources to use the SA35's internal DAC.
Compatible products may include a CD transport, television, games console or another digital audio source.
These inputs support compatible 16-bit and 24-bit PCM at sample rates up to 192kHz.
No Digital Audio Outputs
The optical and coaxial sockets are inputs rather than outputs.
The SA35 cannot send its streaming sources to an external DAC through optical or coaxial digital audio.
Three Analogue Line Inputs
Three stereo RCA line inputs provide connections for conventional analogue source components.
Suitable products include a CD player, tuner, cassette deck, external DAC or another source with a standard line-level output.
Line-level products must not be connected to either of the dedicated phono inputs.
Moving-Magnet and Moving-Coil Phono Inputs
Separate MM and MC phono inputs allow a broad range of turntables and cartridges to connect without requiring an external phono stage.
Use the moving-magnet input with a suitable MM or compatible high-output cartridge, and the moving-coil input with a suitable low-output MC cartridge.
A grounding terminal is provided for turntables that use a separate earth lead.
Browse our
turntables
for suitable source options.
Use the Correct Phono Input
Confirm the cartridge type before connecting the turntable.
Connecting a line-level source to either phono input can produce severe overload, loud noise and possible system damage.
Bluetooth 5.4 Audio Reception
Bluetooth 5.4 allows compatible phones, tablets and computers to play directly through the amplifier.
The wireless platform includes Snapdragon Sound, AAC, Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast support with compatible equipment.
The amplifier can remember up to five paired source devices, while the maximum Bluetooth input volume can help prevent unexpectedly high playback levels.
Wireless Bluetooth Headphone Output
The SA35 can transmit sound from its connected sources to compatible Bluetooth headphones.
Headphones are paired and selected through the Audio menu on the front display.
This allows vinyl, streaming, television and other connected sources to be heard wirelessly.
No Wired Headphone Socket
The SA35 supports compatible wireless Bluetooth headphones but does not provide a front or rear wired headphone connection.
Bluetooth Input and Output Cannot Operate Together
Wireless headphones cannot be used while Bluetooth is selected as the amplifier's source.
Select streaming, phono, HDMI, analogue or another digital input when listening through Bluetooth headphones.
Auracast Audio Sharing
Auracast allows the SA35 to broadcast audio to multiple compatible Bluetooth LE Audio receiving products.
This can be useful for shared headphone listening and accessibility applications.
Conventional Bluetooth headphones do not automatically support Auracast, so compatibility should be confirmed before purchase.
Stereo Pre-Amplifier Output
A variable stereo RCA pre-amplifier output follows the selected source and volume setting.
It can feed a suitable external power amplifier or another compatible line-level product.
Pre Amp Mode disables the internal power amplifier when the SA35 is being used purely as a streaming pre-amplifier.
Disable Pre Amp Mode When Using the Speaker Outputs
The internal power amplifier does not drive the connected loudspeakers while Pre Amp Mode is enabled.
Leave the setting off during normal integrated-amplifier operation.
Ethernet, Wi-Fi and System Control
Dual-band Wi-Fi and wired Ethernet connect the SA35 to streaming services, the Radia app, Roon and compatible local music libraries.
Ethernet can provide greater reliability where wireless coverage is weak or the local network is congested.
RS232 and infrared control connections support compatible automation and custom-installation systems.
A trigger output can coordinate the standby operation of another suitable component.
Network Standby and Automatic Standby
Network Standby keeps the amplifier visible to compatible apps and services while it is in standby.
Switching Network Standby off reduces energy consumption but may require the amplifier to be turned on manually before it appears within an app.
The Eco Timer places the SA35 into standby after approximately 20 minutes without playback or user interaction and can be disabled where required.
Speaker Matching
The SA35's 120W output and Class G architecture make it suitable for a wide selection of high-quality standmount and floorstanding speakers.
The correct combination still depends on loudspeaker impedance, sensitivity, room size, placement and preferred listening level.
A demonstration with familiar music remains the best way to judge tonal balance, bass control, scale and long-term listening comfort.
Browse our
passive loudspeakers
or read our
amplifier and speaker system-balancing guide
.
Placement and Ventilation
The SA35 is designed to run warm during normal operation and may become hot during extended high-level listening.
Position it on a firm, level surface with open space around the ventilation openings.
Do not install the amplifier in an enclosed cabinet without effective airflow or place it directly above another heat-producing component.
Keep Turntables Away from Heat and Power Supplies
Avoid placing a turntable directly on top of or immediately beside the amplifier.
A phono cartridge may pick up mechanical vibration or electromagnetic hum from nearby power supplies.
SA35 and SA45 Comparison
Arcam SA35
- 120W per channel into 8 ohms
- 200W per channel into 4 ohms at 1kHz
- 6.5-inch high-resolution display
- Three RCA line inputs
- MM and MC phono inputs
- RCA pre-amplifier output
- Dual subwoofer outputs
- Dirac Live Room Correction
Arcam SA45
- 180W per channel into 8 ohms
- 300W per channel into 4 ohms at 1kHz
- 8.8-inch high-resolution display
- Balanced and unbalanced analogue connections
- MM and MC phono inputs
- Balanced internal audio architecture
- Dual subwoofer outputs
- Dirac Live Room Correction
View the Arcam SA45
System Matching
Well Suited To
- Customers wanting fewer separate components
- Medium and larger listening rooms
- High-quality standmount and floorstanding speakers
- Spotify, TIDAL and Qobuz Connect users
- Apple AirPlay and Google Cast playback
- Roon Ready music systems
- MM and MC turntable systems
- Television sound through HDMI eARC
- Single or dual powered-subwoofer systems
- Rooms that may benefit from Dirac Live
Check Before Buying
- No balanced analogue inputs or outputs
- No optical or coaxial digital outputs
- No USB computer audio input
- No wired headphone socket
- No internal music storage
- No CD mechanism
- No surround-sound decoding
- Dirac setup requires a Windows PC or Mac
- Auracast requires compatible receiving products
- One pair of passive speakers connects directly
Setup Guidance
- Use Ethernet where Wi-Fi reliability is limited
- Set televisions to stereo PCM where required
- Use the correct MM or MC phono input
- Use the Radia app for network and USB playback
- Complete Dirac measurements in a quiet room
- Configure the connected subwoofer arrangement
- Disable Pre Amp Mode when using passive speakers
- Maintain correct speaker polarity
- Keep the amplifier well ventilated
- Reduce volume before changing system connections
Browse our
streaming amplifiers
,
network music streamers
,
passive loudspeakers
,
turntables
,
powered subwoofers
and
audio cables
, or explore the complete
Arcam range at Audio T
.
Finish
Radia Black
The SA35 uses Arcam's understated Radia Black styling with aluminium casework, rounded edges, solid controls and discreet yellow detailing.
Key Features
- All-in-one streaming integrated amplifier
- Fifth-generation Arcam Class G amplification
- 120W per channel into 8 ohms
- 200W per channel into 4 ohms at 1kHz
- Linear toroidal power supply
- Six-layer digital audio and streaming platform
- ESS Hyperstream IV DAC topology
- Streaming up to 32-bit/384kHz
- DSD playback up to DSD256
- Gapless playback
- Spotify Connect
- TIDAL Connect
- Qobuz Connect
- Apple AirPlay
- Google Cast
- Roon Ready
- Internet radio and podcasts
- UPnP network-library playback
- USB flash-drive music playback
- Dual-band Wi-Fi and Ethernet
- Arcam Radia app control
- 6.5-inch high-resolution colour display
- Dirac Live Room Correction
- Measurement microphone and USB cable included
- HDMI eARC and ARC television input
- Two optical digital inputs
- Two coaxial digital inputs
- Three stereo RCA line inputs
- Dedicated moving-magnet phono input
- Dedicated moving-coil phono input
- Two powered-subwoofer outputs
- Variable stereo pre-amplifier output
- Pre Amp Mode
- Bluetooth 5.4 audio reception
- Bluetooth wireless-headphone transmission
- Snapdragon Sound
- Bluetooth LE Audio
- Auracast
- RS232 and infrared control
- Trigger output
- Automatic and network standby settings
- Remote control included
- Radia Black finish
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Arcam SA35?
It is an all-in-one streaming integrated amplifier combining network playback, source selection, a DAC, Class G amplification, MM and MC phono stages and Dirac Live Room Correction.
How powerful is the SA35?
It delivers 120W per channel into 8 ohms across 20Hz to 20kHz and 200W per channel into 4 ohms at the manufacturer's stated 1kHz condition.
Does it include music streaming?
Yes. It supports Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, AirPlay, Google Cast, Roon, internet radio, podcasts, UPnP and USB media.
What is the maximum streaming resolution?
Compatible PCM music is supported at up to 32-bit/384kHz, with DSD playback up to DSD256.
Is it Roon Ready?
Yes. A separate Roon Server and suitable Roon subscription are required.
Does it have HDMI eARC?
Yes. Connect a compatible television through its ARC or eARC HDMI socket.
Does it decode Dolby Atmos?
No. The SA35 is a stereo amplifier rather than a surround-sound receiver. Configure the television for compatible stereo audio.
Does it include Dirac Live?
Yes. A measurement microphone and five-metre USB cable are supplied for calibration using a compatible PC or Mac.
Can I connect two subwoofers?
Yes. Two RCA subwoofer outputs are provided and the connected arrangement can be configured within the settings menu.
Can I connect a turntable?
Yes. Separate MM and MC phono inputs are provided for suitable cartridges.
Does it have balanced XLR connections?
No. The SA35 uses unbalanced RCA analogue inputs and outputs. Consider the Arcam SA45 where balanced connections are required.
Can it be used as a USB DAC?
No. The rear USB-A connection supports compatible storage playback and software updates rather than computer audio.
Does it have digital outputs?
No. The optical and coaxial sockets are digital inputs.
Can it transmit to Bluetooth headphones?
Yes. Compatible Bluetooth headphones can be paired and selected through the Audio menu.
Does it have a wired headphone socket?
No. Private listening is available through compatible Bluetooth headphones.
Can it be used only as a streaming pre-amplifier?
Yes. Pre Amp Mode disables the internal power amplifier and leaves the variable RCA pre-output active.
Can it play music from a USB drive?
Yes. Compatible music stored on a USB flash drive can be browsed through the Arcam Radia app.
Does it contain internal music storage?
No. Personal music can be stored on a compatible USB drive, computer or network-attached storage device.
What is the difference between the SA35 and SA45?
The SA45 provides greater amplifier power, a larger display, fully balanced internal audio paths and balanced analogue connections. The SA35 offers many of the same streaming, phono, HDMI, subwoofer and Dirac functions in a smaller design.
What is included in the box?
The package includes the SA35, mains lead, remote control, two AAA batteries, measurement microphone, five-metre USB cable, quick-start guide and safety documentation.
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Demonstrations with suitable standmount and floorstanding speakers
- Comparison with the Arcam SA45 and separate amplifier systems
- Class G amplifier and loudspeaker-matching advice
- Arcam Radia app and network setup
- Spotify, TIDAL and Qobuz Connect guidance
- Roon Ready system advice
- Dirac Live measurement and calibration assistance
- Single and dual-subwoofer setup guidance
- HDMI eARC television configuration
- MM and MC turntable and cartridge matching
- Bluetooth and Auracast compatibility advice
- Pre-amplifier and external power-amplifier setup
- Ethernet, Wi-Fi and UPnP troubleshooting
- Speaker cable and analogue interconnect recommendations
- Ventilation and equipment-rack advice
- Home demonstrations may be available
- Part exchange available on suitable existing equipment
- Ongoing system, streaming and setup support
Contact your local Audio T store
to arrange a demonstration or discuss matching the Arcam SA35 with suitable loudspeakers and sources.