Radia Rewired: Arcam’s Future-Fi Amps Finally Plug Into HDMI eARC
- ducurguz
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read

A Big Stage for a Big Upgrade
At CEDIA Expo 2025 in Denver, Arcam pulled the covers off the Radia+ series — the A5+, A15+, and A25+. These new integrated amplifiers refine the award-winning Radia line introduced in 2023, adding upgraded circuits, quieter power management, and next-generation connectivity.
But the real story? HDMI eARC and Snapdragon Sound with aptX Lossless — two features that finally make these amps feel built for the way people stream, watch, and listen today.
Bluetooth Reborn: Lossless and Auracast
Each Radia+ model now features Bluetooth 5.4 with Snapdragon Sound, LE Audio, and Auracast. Translation:
aptX Lossless streaming for CD-quality wireless (Android users only — iPhones still max out at AAC 256kbps).
Auracast broadcast mode, letting one source feed multiple wireless devices at once.
LE Audio for lower latency, improved power efficiency, and better multi-device sync.
It’s a clear sign that Arcam wants Radia+ amps to fit just as comfortably in a wireless lifestyle as in a traditional hi-fi stack.

HDMI Joins the Family
Finally, the A15+ and A25+ ship with HDMI eARC, making it effortless to tie your TV into your hi-fi setup. For many buyers, this one feature could make the difference between choosing an Arcam or skipping it for something more “living room friendly.”
Under the Hood: Cleaner Power, Sharper Sound
Arcam didn’t just bolt on new features — it reworked the internals too.
A25+ (Flagship): Class G amplification, a precision-cut glass front panel with OLED display, a redesigned transformer with separate windings for digital/DAC stages, and an ESS9018 DAC dedicated to SPDIF inputs. It also supports hi-res up to 32-bit/384kHz.
A15+: Class AB with 80Wpc, HDMI eARC, transformer refinements for cleaner power, and reduced current noise.
A5+: Entry-level with 50Wpc Class AB, phono stage, and component refinements that cut interference and lower power supply impedance.
All models feature smart idle management: unused modules (DAC board, HDMI, Bluetooth) power down automatically to minimize noise and deliver a quieter background.

A Design That Still Feels Radia
Visually, the amps stay true to the Radia industrial design — minimalist lines with subtle accents — but the flagship A25+ now feels more luxurious thanks to its glass-and-OLED facelift. It pairs beautifully with Arcam’s ST25 streamer, making for a sleek, cohesive stack.
Price & Availability
The new Radia+ series ships in early Q4 2025, priced as follows:
Arcam A5+ – $1,199.95
Arcam A15+ – $1,499.95
Arcam A25+ – $1,999.95
The Bottom Line
Arcam’s Radia+ update is less about brute force and more about future-proofing hi-fi. With HDMI eARC, Auracast, and Snapdragon Sound, these amps bridge the gap between classic two-channel purity and modern connected living.
For anyone who loved the original Radia but wished for more streaming polish — your wish has been granted.
Comments