An Arcam reference for the brand's 50th anniversary: dual-mono and Class G
Arcam A50 Signature is a celebratory dual-mono Class G integrated amplifier rated at 2x150 W into 8 ohms, with Class A MM/MC phono and ESS ES9039Q2M DAC.
Created for Arcam's 50th anniversary and developed with input from co-founder John Dawson, A50 Signature sits at the top of the brand's integrated amplifiers. Its dual-mono construction separates the two channels more thoroughly than the other models in the range, while analogue, digital and wireless connectivity allows it to serve as the centre of a complete stereo system.
Key features
- Dual-mono architecture with Class G amplification.
- Power output of 2x150 W into 8 ohms and 2x220 W into 4 ohms.
- Dedicated Class A MM/MC phono stage.
- Three RCA inputs and one balanced XLR input.
- HDMI eARC, USB-C, two coaxial SPDIF inputs and one optical input.
- ESS ES9039Q2M DAC at 32-bit/384 kHz.
- Bluetooth 5.4 aptX Lossless, Snapdragon Sound and Auracast.
- Glass OLED display, Ethernet, trigger In/Out and pre-out.
Dual-mono Class G
A50 Signature is Arcam's first dual-mono Class G integrated amplifier. Each channel uses its own transformer winding, regulation, reservoir capacitance, Class G lifter stage and output-stage heatsink, preserving channel separation as dynamic demand increases. Rated output is 150 W per channel into 8 ohms and 220 W into 4 ohms.
Class A MM/MC phono stage
The dedicated phono stage supports both MM and MC cartridges and operates in Class A, extending compatibility to more ambitious turntable systems. Three RCA inputs and one balanced XLR input complete the analogue section, allowing vinyl to sit alongside line-level and balanced sources.
ESS DAC and digital sources
The ESS ES9039Q2M converter operates at 32-bit/384 kHz and receives signals from USB-C, HDMI eARC, two coaxial SPDIF inputs and one optical input. TV, computer, streamer and conventional digital sources therefore share the same conversion stage developed to complement the dual-mono architecture.
Wireless and personal listening
Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless and Snapdragon Sound provides high-quality wireless reception, while Auracast and the Bluetooth transmitter extend listening to compatible headphones and speakers. A front headphone output remains available for direct wired listening when radio transmission is not required.
50th-anniversary edition
A50 Signature was created as a 50th-anniversary model and developed with input from Arcam co-founder John Dawson. Its signature and flagship positioning are not merely cosmetic: the design introduces a dedicated internal architecture together with a new DAC, volume-control circuit and phono stage.
Supplied accessories
The box includes a remote control with two AAA batteries, mains lead, Quick Start Guide and safety instructions. The distributor specifies a Black finish, dimensions of 431 x 99 x 344 mm and a weight of 12 kg; the front panel uses a glass OLED display.