ARCAM / Streaming Integrated Amplifier
An ambitious system, in one component.
The SA45 is the bigger conversation in ARCAM’s streaming amplifier range: 180 watts per channel into 8 ohms, balanced analog and digital signal paths, and an 8.8-inch display. It gives a listener with demanding speakers a substantial starting point while keeping daily operation approachable.
The House of Stereo perspective
Where the SA45 fits.
Streaming is built in, but your records and television are welcome too. MM/MC phono inputs, HDMI eARC, dual subwoofer outputs and Dirac Live make this a flexible system center. We would compare it with the SA35 using your room and speakers as the deciding factors. Buying more amplifier is useful when the system can make use of it.
At a glance
SA45 specifications
Stereo 8-ohm power ratings: both channels driven, 20Hz–20kHz, 0.5% THD. Speaker impedance, room size and listening level all affect amplifier matching.
More output, with attention to the whole signal path.
The SA45 combines fifth-generation Class G amplification with balanced analogue and digital signal paths. Its six-layer digital platform, ESS Hyperstream IV conversion and linear toroidal supply are designed to keep the streaming and conversion stages from compromising the amplifier. The larger 8.8-inch display is useful when the equipment rack is across the room.
ARCAM rates it at 180 watts per channel into 8 ohms across 20Hz–20kHz, and 300 watts into 4 ohms at 1kHz, both with two channels driven and 0.5% THD. Network playback supports PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256 according to the current manufacturer specification. The separate optical and coaxial input limits are 24-bit/192kHz. Balanced XLR line inputs are an additional connection option over the SA35.
Connections, room correction and setup
Connect a CD player or external phono stage to a line input; use the dedicated MM or MC input only for a suitable cartridge. HDMI eARC brings in a compatible television. The two subwoofer outputs and Dirac Live provide tools for integrating the speakers with the room. They do not remove the need for sensible placement.
ARCAM supplies a measurement microphone and a 5m USB cable. The manual walks through account setup, microphone calibration, measurements, target-curve adjustment and loading a filter. Start with placement and sensible playback levels, then measure the listening area. Ask us to help with the calibration if this is unfamiliar territory.
Use the current manuals for available settings and licensing. Streaming subscriptions, compatible devices and firmware affect the services you can use; maximum file resolution is not available through every playback method.
Full technical specifications
Manufacturer specifications. Power figures retain their load, bandwidth and channels-driven conditions. Regional mains versions and firmware-dependent features should be checked for your unit.
Services
Works with (apps):
ARCAM Radia
Spotify (Connect)
Tidal (Connect)
Qobuz (Connect)
Roon Ready
Works with (services):
Apple Airplay
Google Cast
ARCAM Radia supported services (Global):
Internet Radio
Podcasts
UPnP
USB Media (using USB-A mass storage input)
Continuous power output (0.5% THD), per channel
2 channels driven, 20Hz—20kHz, 8Ω: 180W
2 channels driven, 1kHz, 4Ω: 300W
Harmonic distortion, 80% power, 8Ω at 1kHz: 0.002%
Analogue Inputs
Number of inputs: 3x RCA pairs + 1 XLR pair
Phono Inputs: MM and MC
Frequency response: 20Hz—20kHz ± 0.2dB
Signal/noise ratio (A-wtd, ref. 50W, 1V input): 106dB
Digital Inputs
Supported Streaming media: FLAC, WAV (LPCM), AAC, ALAC, AIFF, DSD (up to 256), MP3, MP4, OGG, WMA
Supported Streaming Bit depth: 16, 24, 32
Supported Streaming sample rates (kHz): Up to 384 kHz
Gapless Playback: Yes
Digital Audio Inputs: 1x HDMI eARC, 2x Coaxial (RCA), 2x Optical (Toslink)
Supported Digital input Bit depth: 16, 24
Supported Digital input sample rates (kHz): Up to 192 kHz
Frequency response (filter 1): 20Hz—20kHz ± 0.2dB
Signal/noise ratio (A-wtd, ref. 50W, 0dBFS): 110dB
Wireless Specifications
Bluetooth Profile 5.4; A2DP Sink/Source, AVRCP, BLE, Snapdragon Sound, AAC, LE Audio, Auracast
Bluetooth Transmitter Frequency and Power: 2,400 MHz to 2,483.5 MHz: <20dBm
Wi-Fi Network: IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax (2.4GHz/5GHz)
2.4G Wi-Fi Transmitter Frequency Range and Power:
2400-2483.5 MHz (USA 11 Channels, Europe and Others 13 Channels): <20dBm
5G Wi-Fi Transmitter Frequency Range and Power:
5150-5250 MHz <23dBm
5250-5350 MHz <20dBm
5470-5725 MHz <20dBm (Not used in China)
5725-5850 MHz <14dBm for EU, <33dBm for other regions.
General
Mains voltage: 100V or 110–120V or 220–240V, 50–60Hz
Power consumption (maximum): 1000W
Power consumption (standby): <0.5W
Dimensions W x D (including speaker terminals) x H (including feet):
432 x 390 x 140mm
Weight (net): 17 kg
Weight (packed): 20 kg
Supplied accessories:
Mains lead(s)
Remote control with 2 x AAA batteries
Measurement Microphone
5m USB Cable
Quick Start Guide
Important Safety Instructions
Watch: video featured by ARCAM
Manuals, setup guides and downloads
- SA45 Unit Software
- ARCAM Radia & Dirac Live Quick Start Guide
- English Owner's Manual
- EU declaration of conformity
- Quick Start Guide
- SA45 Latest SW Release Notes
- Specification Sheet
Manuals in additional languages
ARCAM product support and current downloads
External resources open in a new tab. Check the model and follow ARCAM’s instructions before installing firmware. Manuals may describe regional versions or features added through updates.
Independent reviews
Publisher opinions are separate from House of Stereo’s advice. Review-era prices, software and specifications can differ from current information.
Hi-Fi News — SA45 review and laboratory report
Mark Craven’s listening review links to Paul Miller’s measurements and a separate look at the Radia app.
The Absolute Sound — SA45 video review
Jason Methfessel presents his listening experience with the SA45 in his own system.
A few useful answers
Can I order this online?
Please call House of Stereo at 904-642-6677 to order. We will confirm availability, system compatibility and delivery details with you.
Can you help plan the system?
Yes. Tell us which speakers you own, your room dimensions, listening distance and source components. We can work through connections, amplifier matching and setup before you order.
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