ARCAM AVA25 – Audio-Video Amplifier with Nine Class AB Power Amplifiers and 16-Channel Processing

AV Amplifier for Demanding Home Theatre and Music Playback

The ARCAM AVA25 is an audio-video amplifier for home theatre systems where movie sound, multi-channel music, and streaming are combined in a single device.

Developed in Cambridge, UK, the device uses Class AB amplification designed for richer, more musical playback.

Nine Class AB Power Amplifiers for Flexible Speaker Setups

With its nine integrated amplifier channels, the ARCAM AVA25 directly drives immersive setups such as 7.1.2 or 5.1.4.

For larger systems, the AVA25 processes up to 16 channels. The additional channels are connected via external amplification, for example for more subwoofers, additional height speakers, or expanded surround configurations. This is particularly appealing if a home theatre system is not only powerful from the outset but can also be expanded later as required.

Immersive Audio Formats for Film and Music

The ARCAM AVA25 supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced, AURO-3D, and other decoders for multi-channel playback.

This makes it suitable for modern movie soundtracks as well as immersive music formats. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X position sounds not only horizontally but also incorporate height. AURO-3D provides another option for spatial playback, provided the source material and speaker setup are compatible.

HDMI 2.1a for Modern Video Sources, eARC, and Gaming

The ARCAM AVA25 features HDMI 2.1a with seven inputs and three outputs, including two outputs for Zone 1 and one output for Zone 2.

The HDMI section supports up to 8K/60 Hz or 4K/120 Hz, as well as HDR, HDR10, HDR10+, HDR10+ Gaming, Dolby Vision, and HLG. Variable Refresh Rate and Auto Low Latency Mode are also available for gaming consoles and compatible video sources. Audio from the TV can be routed back to the AVA25 via eARC/ARC on Zone 1 Output 1.

Streaming, Networking, and Bluetooth for Everyday Use

The ARCAM AVA25 is fully equipped for network streaming and wireless playback.

Music can be streamed from a variety of sources via the ARCAM Radia Control app and services and standards such as Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz Connect, Roon Ready, Apple Airplay, Google Cast, Internet Radio, Podcasts, and UPnP. It also supports high-resolution media formats such as FLAC, WAV, ALAC, AIFF, AAC, MP3, and OGG at up to 192 kHz.

Bluetooth 5.4 features A2DP Sink/Source, Snapdragon Sound, AAC, LE Audio, and Auracast. Auracast enables Bluetooth broadcast audio to compatible speakers or headphones. The AVA25 can also output Bluetooth audio to compatible hearing aids, headphones, or speakers for assistive listening.

Setup, Operation, and Dirac Live Room Correction

The ARCAM AVA25 can be set up using on-screen menus, the 6.5-inch colour display, and the ARCAM Radia Control app.

On initial startup, the AVA25 guides you through a quick setup routine, including network connection and checking for available software updates. The front panel displays the playback status, input, Internet Radio presets, and audio and basic settings. The included Bluetooth remote control also operates the AVA25 when the device is not directly visible.

Dirac Live Room Correction is also included and uses the supplied measurement microphone to measure the room. Dirac Live Bass Control and Dirac Live Active Room Treatment extensions are supported but require separate licenses from Dirac. We are happy to assist with the room measurement.

Connections, System Integration, and Zone 2

The ARCAM AVA25 is designed for traditional Hi-Fi sources, digital players, HDMI components, and external power amplifiers.

In addition to HDMI, coaxial and optical digital inputs, analogue RCA inputs, RCA preamplifier outputs, Ethernet, USB-A, RS-232, and trigger connections are available. The Zone 2 function can be used via HDMI and RCA. The trigger outputs are useful for installations with additional power amplifiers or active components, as connected devices can be switched on and off simultaneously.

Positioning with Adequate Ventilation

The ARCAM AVA25 should be placed on a level, solid surface with good ventilation.

The enclosure may become hot during prolonged use at high volumes. Therefore, do not place the AVA25 in a closed cabinet without adequate ventilation, and do not place any other components on the device.

Pros and Cons at a Glance:

The ARCAM AVA25 is appealing because:

• Nine integrated Class AB amplifier channels for direct 7.1.2 or 5.1.4 setups.

• 16-channel processing for later expansion with external amplification.

• Support for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced, AURO-3D, MPEG H, and other decoding formats.

• HDMI 2.1a with 8K/60 Hz, 4K/120 Hz, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, VRR, and ALLM.

• Dirac Live Room Correction with a measurement microphone included.

• Comprehensive streaming support, including Roon Ready, Apple Airplay, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, and Qobuz Connect.

What you should know about the ARCAM AVA25:

• Additional external power amplifiers are required to use all 16 processed channels.

• Dirac Live Bass Control and Dirac Live Active Room Treatment are supported but require separate Dirac licenses.

• The AVA25 requires a well-ventilated setup because it becomes warm during operation.

• Bluetooth headphones cannot be used with the Bluetooth input source.

Who is the ARCAM AVA25 suitable for?

The ARCAM AVA25 is particularly suitable for:

• Home theatre systems with Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced, or AURO-3D.

• 7.1.2 or 5.1.4 setups that are to be driven directly by the integrated power amplifiers.

• Users who wish to expand later to up to 16 processed channels.

• Music and home theatre enthusiasts who want to combine streaming, Roon Ready, Airplay, Google Cast, and traditional connections in a single device.

• Systems with a TV or projector where HDMI 2.1a, eARC, and modern HDR formats are important.

The ARCAM AVA25 is less suitable for:

• Setups where all 16 channels are to be actively amplified without additional power amplifiers.

• Closed cabinets or narrow compartments without adequate ventilation.

• Customers who strictly require an integrated AM/FM tuner.

Our verdict on the ARCAM AVA25

In our view, the ARCAM AVA25 is a very compelling AV amplifier for home theatre and music systems that value Class AB amplification, modern HDMI features, comprehensive streaming, and room correction. It is particularly appealing to customers who currently operate a powerful 7.1.2 or 5.1.4 system and wish to retain the option of expanding to a larger 16-channel configuration. It is important to note, however, that external power amplifiers must be planned for to achieve the full configuration.

The most important features of the ARCAM AVA25 at a glance:

The ARCAM AVA25 is an audio-video amplifier and home theatre amplifier from the Radia AV family with nine Class AB power amplifiers, 16-channel processing, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced, and AURO-3D. For modern home theatre installations, it offers HDMI 2.1a with 8K/60 Hz, 4K/120 Hz, eARC, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, VRR, and ALLM. As a streaming amplifier, the AVA25 supports Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz Connect, Roon Ready, Apple Airplay, Google Cast, Internet Radio, Podcasts, UPnP, Bluetooth 5.4, Snapdragon Sound, and Auracast. Dirac Live Room Correction, a 6.5-inch colour display, on-screen menus, the ARCAM Radia Control app, and extensive RCA preamplifier outputs make it a flexible hub for ambitious home theatre and music systems.

Frequently asked questions about the ARCAM AVA25

Does the ARCAM AVA25 support Dolby Atmos?

Yes, the ARCAM AVA25 supports Dolby Atmos. It also supports Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualisation, Dolby Surround, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced, AURO-3D, and MPEG H.

Can the ARCAM AVA25 drive a 7.1.2 or 5.1.4 setup?

Yes, the ARCAM AVA25 can directly drive 7.1.2 or 5.1.4 setups with its nine integrated amplifier channels. Additional external power amplifiers are used for larger configurations with up to 16-channel processing.

Why does the ARCAM AVA25 need external power amplifiers?

External power amplifiers are required when more than the nine built-in amplifier channels are to be actively driven. The AVA25 processes up to 16 channels and outputs the additional channels via RCA preamplifier outputs.

Does the ARCAM AVA25 have HDMI 2.1a?

Yes, the ARCAM AVA25 features HDMI 2.1a and HDCP 2.3. It supports up to 8K/60 Hz or 4K/120 Hz, as well as HDR10+, Dolby Vision, VRR, ALLM, CEC, and eARC/ARC on Zone 1 Output 1.

Which streaming services does the ARCAM AVA25 support?

The ARCAM AVA25 supports Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz Connect, Roon Ready, Apple Airplay, and Google Cast. The ARCAM Radia Control app also supports Internet Radio, Podcasts, and UPnP playback.

Is Dirac Live included with the ARCAM AVA25?

Yes, Dirac Live Room Correction is included with the ARCAM AVA25. Dirac Live Bass Control and Dirac Live Active Room Treatment are supported but require separate licenses from Dirac.

Does the ARCAM AVA25 have an AM/FM tuner?

No, the product does not feature an integrated AM/FM tuner.

Can the ARCAM AVA25 drive Bluetooth headphones?

Yes, the ARCAM AVA25 can pair compatible hearing aids, headphones, or speakers as a Bluetooth output. However, Bluetooth headphones cannot be used with the Bluetooth input source.

• Product Name: ARCAM AVA25

• Product Type: Audio Video Amplifier / AV Receiver

• Brand: ARCAM

• Product Line: ARCAM Radia AV

• Development: Cambridge, UK

• Maximum Number of Channels: 16

• Re-assignable Channels: Front, Surround Back, Height Channels

• Dolby: Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, Dolby Surround

• DTS: DTS:X, DTS HD Master, DTS Neural:X, DTS Virtual:X

• IMAX Enhanced: Yes

• AURO-3D: Yes

• MPEG H: Yes

• HDMI Inputs/Outputs: 7 / 2 (Zone 1), 1 (Zone 2)

• HDMI/HDCP Versions: 2.1a / 2.3

• Resolution Support: up to 8K/60Hz or 4K/120Hz

• Dynamic Range Profiles: HDR, HDR10, HDR10+, HDR10+ Gaming, Dolby Vision, HLG

• HDMI Features: Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), CEC, eARC/ARC (Zone 1, Output 1)

• On Screen Display: Yes

• Apps: ARCAM Radia, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz Connect, Roon (Ready)

• Services: Apple AirPlay, Google Cast

• ARCAM Radia Supported Services: Internet Radio, Podcasts, UPnP

• Supported Hi-Res Media: FLAC, WAV (LPCM), AAC, ALAC, AIFF, MP3, OGG

• Supported Hi-Res Bit Depth: 16, 24

• Supported Sample Rates: up to 192 kHz

• Gapless Playback: Yes

• Frequency Response: 20Hz—20kHz ± 0.05dB

• Number of Coaxial / Toslink Inputs: 2 / 2

• Coaxial (RCA) Supported Sample Rates: 192, 176.4, 96, 88.2, 48, 44.1 kHz

• Optical (Toslink) Supported Sample Rates: 96, 88.2, 48, 44.1 kHz

• Bit Depths Coaxial & Optical: 24, 16 bit

• Frequency Response: 20Hz—20kHz ± 0.2dB

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 100dB (A-wtd, ref. 50W, 0dBFS)

• Number of Inputs: 3x RCA pairs

• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 100dB (A-wtd, ref. 50W, 1V input)

• Frequency Response: 20Hz—20kHz ± 0.2dB

• Number of XLR / RCA Outputs: 0 / 16

• Single-ended (RCA) peak output level per channel: 2V RMS

• THD+N: –100dB (20 Hz to 20 kHz)

• Amplifier Channels: 9, Class AB

• Continuous Power at 0.5% THD, 8O, 20Hz - 20kHz, 2 Channels Driven: 120W

• Continuous Power at 0.5% THD, 4Ohm, 1kHz, 2 Channels Driven: 160W

• Continuous Power at 0.5% THD, 8Ohm, 1kHz, 7 / 9 Channels Driven: 90 / 75W

• Continuous Power at 0.5% THD, 4Ohm, 1kHz, 7 / 9 Channels Driven: 100 / 80W

• Harmonic Distortion, 80% Power, 8Ohm at 1kHz: 0.005%

• Ethernet: wired network connectivity for control, streaming, and firmware updates

• USB-A: audio file playback, firmware updates, and service operations via USB storage device

• USB-C Front: connection of calibration microphone for Dirac Live room measurement

• Headphone Output: stereo only, for passive headphones

• RS-232: external control and integration with automation and custom installation systems

• Trigger Inputs/Outputs: In Zone 1, Out Zone 1, In Zone 2, Out Zone 2

• Zone 2 Pre-Outputs: 1x pair RCA outputs

• Speaker Terminals: 9x pairs binding posts, 6 pairs assignable

• Display: 6.5-inch high-resolution display

• Remote Control: Bluetooth remote control

• Bluetooth Version: 5.4

• Bluetooth Profiles: A2DP Sink/Source, AVRCP, Snapdragon Sound, AAC, LE Audio, Auracast, GATT, VCP, MCP, BAP, CAP

• Bluetooth Transmitter Frequency Range and Power: 2,402 MHz to 2,480 MHz < Max 10.73dBm

• Wi-Fi Network: IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2.4GHz/5GHz)

• 2.4G Wi-Fi Transmitter Frequency Range and Power: 2.400 GHz to 2.4835 GHz < Max 17.4dBm

• 5G Wi-Fi Transmitter Frequency Range and Power: 5.15-5.35GHz, 5.47-5.725GHz, 5.725-5.875GHz, < Max 19.26dBm

• Mains Voltage: 100–120V or 220–240V, 50–60Hz

• Maximum Power Consumption: 900W

• Maximum Heat Dissipation: 3070 BTU/hour

• Power Consumption Idle: 87W

• Heat Dissipation Idle: 300 BTU/hour

• Power Consumption Standby Default / Low Power: 2W / 0.4W

• Dimensions W x D x H: 43.2 x 45.91 x 17.0 cm, including speaker terminals and feet

• Net Weight: 21.5 kg

• Packaged Weight: 28.21 kg

• ARCAM AVA25

• Remote control incl. batteries

• Measuring microphone

• USB-C cable

• Power cable

• Documents

• Datenblatt
• Informationsblatt
• Anleitung

Harman International Industries, Incorporated
Danzigerkade 16G, 1013 AP Amsterdam, NLD
luxurysupport@harman.com
https://www.arcam.co.uk/