Separate Hi-Res streaming for Radia amplifiers, with ESS DAC and Control Link
Arcam ST5 is a network streamer up to 24-bit/192 kHz with ESS ES9018 DAC, AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz Connect, MQA and Roon Ready.
ST5 is designed as a separate streaming source for Radia integrated amplifiers, particularly A5+ and A15+. It keeps its power supply and chassis separate from the amplifier and adds a Control Link that allows the two components to work together for input selection and volume control.
Key features
- Streaming up to 24-bit/192 kHz.
- Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect and Qobuz Connect.
- AirPlay 2, Google Cast and Roon Ready.
- MQA support and gapless playback.
- ESS ES9018 DAC with time-domain jitter elimination.
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet.
- RCA analogue, coaxial SPDIF and optical outputs.
- Control Link for compatible Arcam Radia amplifiers.
Services and formats
The platform supports FLAC, WAV (LPCM), MQA, AAC, ALAC, AIFF and DSD up to DSD128, together with MP3, MP4, OGG and WMA. Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect and Qobuz Connect operate alongside AirPlay 2, Google Cast and Roon Ready, while the Arcam Radia App handles Wi-Fi setup, Internet Radio and podcasts.
DAC and outputs
The ESS ES9018 DAC converts the stream for the analogue RCA output and uses time-domain jitter elimination. Coaxial and optical digital outputs allow conversion to be handled by an external DAC or amplifier, leaving ST5 responsible for network playback and control.
Integration with Radia amplifiers
The Control Link lets ST5 and a compatible Radia amplifier behave as a coordinated system while retaining separate chassis and power supplies. The integration is particularly intended for A5+ and A15+, with input and volume operation available from the same control device.
Supplied accessories
The box includes a remote control with two AAA batteries, mains lead, control cable, Quick Start Guide and safety instructions. The finish is Black; dimensions are 431 x 57 x 344 mm and net weight is 3.5 kg.