Arcam Unveils the New Radia+ Amplifier Range
When Arcam introduced the original Radia Series in 2023, it marked a confident step forward in design and engineering — combining modern aesthetics with the brand’s long-standing commitment to natural, expressive sound. The line quickly found success, earning praise for its clean looks, intuitive operation, and characteristically musical presentation. Now, Arcam is back with three updated integrated amplifiers — the A5+, A15+, and A25+ — marking a considered update to a proven formula.
Building on the strengths of the original trio, the new “plus” models feature improved circuitry, upgraded internal components, and expanded connectivity designed to reflect the needs of contemporary music and multimedia systems. Each continues the distinctive Radia design language, designed to visually match the accompanying CD and streaming components, while introducing subtle engineering changes aimed at lowering noise, improving efficiency, and enhancing overall system flexibility.
Power outputs remain familiar — 50W per channel for the A5+, 80W for the A15+, and 100W of Class G amplification for the A25+ — but the internal layout has been carefully reworked. Transformer upgrades reduce unwanted current within the chassis, while refined circuit design helps minimise interference and ensure cleaner signal paths. Each model now offers quieter operation and more robust connectivity, showing Arcam’s ongoing focus on practical refinements that make everyday listening smoother and more engaging.
Wireless functionality also sees a major update. All three amplifiers now employ Arcam’s latest Bluetooth 5.4 platform, supporting Snapdragon Sound, aptX Lossless, LE Audio, and Auracast for high-quality streaming and multi-device playback. Combined with new power-management systems that deactivate idle components to maintain a lower noise floor, the Radia+ amplifiers should deliver more detail and texture with a greater sense of precision.
It seems Arcam has prioritised refinement over dramatic change, building on what already worked: solid build, effortless musicality, and ease of use. The A5+, A15+, and A25+ continue that approach — updated where it counts, confident where it matters, and well placed to remain among the most satisfying amplifier options in their class.
A5+ – Compact, Capable, and Efficient
Replacing the much-loved A5, the A5+ continues as the range’s entry point and remains a strong example of Arcam’s ability to combine simplicity with substance. It delivers 2 x 50W of Class AB power, with refined internal components that reduce PCB interference and enhance overall signal purity.
Arcam’s engineers appear to have focused on delivering greater transparency and control through careful refinement of circuit topology and power management. Bluetooth streaming quality takes a clear step up thanks to Snapdragon Sound and aptX Lossless, while support for Auracast opens the door to flexible, one-to-many wireless playback.
Priced at £749, the A5+ offers an accessible route into the Radia+ ecosystem, pairing easily with the brand’s CD5 or ST5 for a clean, modern two-channel system.
A15+ – Balanced Power and Expanded Integration
The A15+ builds upon the middle model’s reputation as the range’s most versatile performer. Power output increases to 2 x 80W of Class AB amplification, providing enough headroom for larger rooms or more demanding speakers.
The biggest update here is the addition of HDMI eARC/ARC, allowing the amplifier to integrate seamlessly into a hybrid music-and-movie setup. This makes it an easy fit in living rooms where a single system handles both stereo playback and TV audio. It’s also fully operational in power-off mode for convenience.
Other updates mirror those seen in the A5+, including quieter operation, enhanced transformer design, and improved component layout. The A15+ sits at £1,199 and represents an ideal midpoint — compact, capable, and designed for users seeking flexibility without sonic compromise.
A25+ – Refinement at the Top
The A25+ sits at the top of the Radia+ range, combining the latest circuit design and DAC updates in a refined enclosure that mirrors the aesthetic of Arcam’s matching ST25 streamer. Rated at 2 x 100W, it employs Arcam’s Class G topology — a hybrid design that delivers high efficiency without sacrificing the smoothness of traditional analogue amplification.
Internally, the A25+ incorporates an ESS9018 DAC dedicated to SPDIF inputs, ensuring superior digital audio performance. Transformer and power-supply improvements aim to further lower the noise floor and increase clarity.
Visually, the A25+ adds a precision-cut glass front panel and a large OLED display for a more contemporary, high-end look. The result is an amplifier that feels both modern and meticulously executed, continuing Arcam’s tradition of understated, purposeful design. Priced at £1,699, it’s a natural partner for the ST25 and one of the most complete integrated amplifiers the brand has produced to date.
Evolved, Not Reinvented
The new Radia+ range shows a company refining rather than reinventing its core strengths. These amplifiers remain unmistakably Arcam: musical, transparent, and easy to live with — but now equipped for the demands of modern listening. From the accessible A5+ to the flagship A25+, the Radia+ lineup reinforces Arcam’s reputation for designing amplifiers that balance engineering precision with musical engagement, ready to integrate seamlessly into any contemporary audio or multimedia system.
