STATUS - SOLD
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Description :
The Arcam Alpha is the first CD players in Arcam's lower cost Alpha line. This player is based on a Philips model, and uses a Philips mainboard, loader and laser mechanism, but uses a Arcam case, power supply and DAC board. It shares the same style as contemporary Alpha components, like the Alpha 1, 2 and 3 integrated amplifiers and the Alpha tuner. The sound quality of the player in stock standard form is actually quite good. The better power supply to the DAC and improved output stage put this CD player a step ahead of many other affordable cd players. However as always, there is room for improvement. As perhaps befits the base model in the range, the Alpha is a fairly modest design as far as its programming and display facilities are concerned. Linearity is excellent and is maintained well down to the noise floor, and the crosstalk performance is also first rate. Immunity to physical shock is very good as well. A substantial knock being required to disturb the laser transport enough to produce audible mistracking. Mechanically the machine is quiet, just a faint swishing noise from the disc motor apparent within a yard or so in a quiet room and with the amplifier muted.
The Arcam Alpha cd player paints an effortless, nicely focused sound picture with a well conveyed depth of image as well as tight lateral definition. The top is also nicely open - a shade bright but quite without any sibilant emphasis. The Arcam Alpha handles the complex challenge of any orchestral disc well. The slow crescendo beginning with hushed low register piano and bassoons, then horns and trombones, then the gamelan instruments and so on until it becomes overwhelming. The finesse in its resolution of the delicate soprano, two recorders and continuo texture is impressive. Although it is Arcam's first cd player model, its new retail price puts it firmly in the middle of the marketplace. That is the price for individuality and innovation. With its neat styling, fine constructional quality and extremely capable sonic performance, the Alpha still offers value for money.
Specifications :
Equipped.........................................TDA1541A IC chip / CDM-4 Lens
Frequency response.........................10-10,000Hz ± 0.1dB
Total harmonic distortion....................0-007% (1kHz, 0dB)
Signal-to-noise ratio..........................101dB unweighted
Output level......................................2V
Output impedance............................22 Ohms
Dynamic range.................................96dB
Dimensions(w x d x h).......................43 x 29 x 8.5 cm
Weight.............................................4kg
Miscellaneous :
Remote............................................Subsitute Remote
Made in............................................UK, England
Condition..........................................7 / 10
Product Information :
http://insideclassicaudio.blogspot.com/2011/05/arcam-alpha.html
Reviews :
http://www.gramophone.net/Issue/Page/October%201990/211/776030/ARCAM+ALPHA+COMPACT+DISC+PLAYER |
