Review: Arcam Alpha 8SE CD Player

Category: Digital

I have owned the Arcam 8SE for about a year now and love the sound. The player has a simple user interface and rather nondescript face design. Arcam has put the effort and money into the electronics. The 8SE is HDCD compatible and has a coax digital output. The unit is upgradeable with, for example a 24 bit DAC module available in higher models in the Arcam line, although I haven't frankly needed that.

The unit replaced a older Carver model cd player that had served me well for many years, but was badly outdated. While the Carver had a remarkably nice sound for the price, there was a remarkable improvement with the Arcam. The sound is smoother and more musical, without losing the precision.

One of the things I have liked the most about the Canton Ergos I use with the unit is the excellent imaging quality. The Arcam does not disappoint, reproducing a well separated soundstage. You can really "see" the musicians if you close your eyes.

The only negatives I would list are the relatively poor remote control supplied with the unit (very small buttons and labels), the somewhat pedestrian styling, and the difficulty in programming tracks. I have all but given up on track progamming due to a clunky operation. If you're in the market for a very solid unit with no extraneous bells and whistles, that doesn't compromise on sound quality -- the Armacm 8SE is worth a listen. These have been available here on line in the range of half retail. At that price, you cannot miss.

Associated gear
Arcam AVR-100
Canton Ergo 31dc