Arcam’s entry-level AVR prioritises sound over features
Instead of trying to be all things to all people, Arcam says it is putting sound and not features at the core of its AVR range. This means that the AVR5 has the same number of amplifier outputs as the flagship model, because seven channels is the maximum number that Arcam believes it can deliver without huge compromise when compared with the performance of a stereo amplifier.
The AVR5 is the entry-level model in a range that includes the AVR11 (£2799), AVR21 (£3799), and the AVR31 (£5799). The range uses identical ESS9026 Pro DACs and shares the same clean aesthetic and build quality, with grey metal casework, a streamer-like 4.3in colour TFT screen that displays album artwork, and a single large silver volume dial above a row of function and transport buttons. So, when faced with the AVR5, the main question we have is what concessions are being made that make this an ‘entry-level’ amp, and are they justified by its sonic performance?
Pay for what you need
The AVR5 can natively decode 12 channels of Dolby Atmos audio (up to 7.1.4) as well as rival immersive format DTS:X. Dolby Height Virtualisation and DTS Virtual:X are also on board for those who want to simulate height effects without using physical ceiling or up-firing speakers. As the AVR5 sports only seven channels of Class AB amplification, any system larger than 5.1.2 will require the use of a separate power amplifier. Arcam’s own options in this regard include the PA410 (£1399), which features four channels of AB amplification, and the two-channel PA240 (£2200) and seven-channel PA720 (£2900), both of which use the company’s more premium class-G amplifier circuits, a variation on AB amplification that uses voltage rail switching to improve efficiency.
There are seven HDMI inputs and two outputs with 4K passthrough and HDR10, HLG and Dolby Vision all supported. But, unlike its siblings, the AVR5’s HDMI ports support only HDMI 2.0, with eARC being the only nod towards next-gen HDMI features.
Aside from HDMI, there is connectivity for wireless streaming courtesy of Apple AirPlay 2, Bluetooth aptX HD, Google Chromecast, and Spotify Connect. The Harman MusicLife UPnP app enables playback and control of the AVR5 via Android/iOS, along with access to internet radio, music streaming and podcasts.
MQA audio support means Tidal HiFi subscribers can listen to the highest available audio quality from Tidal Master recordings, while Roon users can use the system’s interface for browsing Qobuz, Tidal, and local
