Arcam P49 REVIEW
The Arcam P49 Stereo Power Amplifier was actually the very first product reviewed by Terry from Pursuit Perfect System.
Its an interesting product because it has on paper all the performance you will want and more at this price point, Class G Amplification 50w of Class A then up to 200w @ 8 Ohms. All that power for £3250 is excellent value for money.
To achieve this Arcam have been quite simplistic with the build of the amplifier, it has a nice curved front panel and decent connections on the rear but thats as far as it goes. The build quality is solid, robust and adequate but far from lavish and premium.
One could always argue whats inside is more important than the look and we agree to a large extent, the P49 is a very competent amplifier that doesnt put a foot wrong with its sonic performance. There is ample of everything, good control, good sound stage, good texture and organic character to music - see the song demonstration videos below for examples
Its a big beast of a unit that wont be for everyone from a looks point of view but very few people with be unhappy or dislike it for its sonic performance in any area. It might not do enough of one thing or another for some people to fall in love with it, but it will probably do more than enough in every area for most enthusiasts shopping around this price point for a good amount of power for demanding speakers
Its an interesting product because it has on paper all the performance you will want and more at this price point, Class G Amplification 50w of Class A then up to 200w @ 8 Ohms. All that power for £3250 is excellent value for money.
To achieve this Arcam have been quite simplistic with the build of the amplifier, it has a nice curved front panel and decent connections on the rear but thats as far as it goes. The build quality is solid, robust and adequate but far from lavish and premium.
One could always argue whats inside is more important than the look and we agree to a large extent, the P49 is a very competent amplifier that doesnt put a foot wrong with its sonic performance. There is ample of everything, good control, good sound stage, good texture and organic character to music - see the song demonstration videos below for examples
Its a big beast of a unit that wont be for everyone from a looks point of view but very few people with be unhappy or dislike it for its sonic performance in any area. It might not do enough of one thing or another for some people to fall in love with it, but it will probably do more than enough in every area for most enthusiasts shopping around this price point for a good amount of power for demanding speakers