ARCAM A50 Signature - Black

Description

50 years of British amplification

The ARCAM A50 Signature marks 50 years of the British amplifier maker. The story began in September 1976 with the launch of the original A60, under the A&R Cambridge banner. Half a century later, the A50 Signature honors that legacy while looking firmly to the future. Developed in collaboration with ARCAM co-founder John Dawson, it reflects a shared belief that great audio design must remain relevant to how we listen today — from high-resolution streaming and HDMI eARC TV audio to CD and vinyl.

Class A MM and MC phono preamplifier

Unlike most amplifiers in its range, the A50 Signature integrates a Class A phono preamplifier compatible with both moving-magnet (MM) and moving-coil (MC) cartridges. A single phono input that accepts virtually every turntable and cartridge on the market, without having to invest in a separate high-end phono preamplifier. Frequency response matches the RIAA curve (20 Hz – 20 kHz ± 1 dB); input impedance 47 kΩ + 100 pF.

ESS ES9039Q2M DAC with USB-C 384 kHz and HDMI eARC

The digital section is built around the ESS ES9039Q2M converter, one of the industry's reference DACs. The USB-C input accepts up to 384 kHz / 32-bit from a computer or modern digital player. The HDMI eARC input connects the TV directly for movie, series and gaming audio — with volume sync from the TV remote. Two additional digital inputs (optical / coaxial, up to 192 kHz) complete the array. 110 dB digital signal-to-noise ratio.

Comprehensive connectivity and headphone listening

Analog inputs cover 3 RCA pairs and a balanced XLR input for professional or audiophile sources. A Pre-Out lets you use the A50 Signature as a preamplifier for an external power block. The headphone output delivers 2.5 V into 32 Ω and 5 V into 300 Ω, with an impedance range from 16 Ω to 2 kΩ. Universal 100/120/240 V mains; max power 700 W, standby < 0.5 W.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does the Dual-Mono Class G topology bring?

In a Dual-Mono architecture, each channel is a fully independent amplifier, with its own power supply, its own power stage and its own signal path — no sharing between left and right. The result: near-absolute stereo separation, no crosstalk between channels. Class G adds multiple power rails that engage based on signal level: efficiency is far better than pure Class A or AB, without the switching drawbacks of Class D. This combination is the culmination of nearly 20 years of ARCAM Class G expertise.

How does it compare to the ARCAM A25+ and A15?

The A15 and A25+ are Class G integrateds with shared power supplies, at more modest outputs (2 × 80 W and 2 × 100 W respectively) and without a balanced XLR input. The A50 Signature steps up a level: Dual-Mono architecture (each channel a complete independent amp), 2 × 150 W, balanced XLR input, Class A phono preamp adding MC support, and Bluetooth 5.4 with Auracast and LE Audio. It's the flagship of the new range, for the most demanding listeners and the toughest loudspeakers to drive.

Can it be used as a preamplifier only?

Yes, thanks to the Pre Out RCA on the rear panel. This lets you pair the A50 Signature with an external power block (for example an ARCAM PA240 or PA410) for very current-hungry speakers, or use its preamp/phono/DAC section as the switching hub of a larger system. The Pre Out stays active in parallel with the speaker terminals.

What do Auracast and LE Audio bring compared to classic Bluetooth?

LE Audio is the new-generation Bluetooth that gradually replaces A2DP, with better audio quality, reduced latency and improved headphone battery life. Auracast lets multiple headphones (up to dozens) receive the same audio stream simultaneously from the A50 Signature — handy for a silent group listening session. Combined with aptX Lossless, you get true lossless Bluetooth streaming from compatible Android phones for the first time.

What's in the Box

ARCAM A50 Signature integrated amplifier

Mains lead

Remote control with 2 × AAA batteries

Quick Start Guide

Important Safety Instructions