Arcam SA30 Integrated Amplifier

Safety Guidelines

Important Safety Instructions: Read, keep, and follow all instructions. Heed all warnings.

• Do not use near water; clean only with a dry cloth.
• Ensure proper ventilation; do not block openings or install near heat sources.
• Do not defeat the safety purpose of polarized or grounding-type plugs.
• Protect power cords from damage.
• Use only manufacturer-specified attachments/accessories and equipment (cart, stand, etc.).
• Unplug during lightning storms or long periods of non-use.
• Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
• Object/Liquid Entry: Take care that objects do not fall and liquids are not spilled into the enclosure. The equipment shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing. Do not place liquid-filled objects like vases on the equipment.
• Climate: Designed for moderate climates and domestic situations.
• Cleaning: Unplug before cleaning. Use a soft, lint-free cloth. Do not use chemical solvents or furniture cleaning sprays/polishes.
• Power Sources: Connect only to the type of power supply described or marked on the equipment. The mains plug is the primary method of isolation.
• Abnormal Smell: If an abnormal smell or smoke is detected, turn off power immediately, unplug, and contact your dealer.
• Damage Requiring Service: Service is required if the power cord/plug is damaged, liquid has spilled, objects have fallen in, exposed to rain/moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped/enclosure damaged.

Caution: To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not remove covers. No user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.

Warning: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.

The lightning flash symbol ⚡️ within an equilateral triangle alerts users to the presence of uninsulated `dangerous voltage' within the product's enclosure. The exclamation point symbol ❗ within an equilateral triangle alerts users to important operating and maintenance instructions.

Class II Product: This equipment is double insulated and does not require a safety connection to electrical earth.

Mains Plug/Appliance Coupler: Used to disconnect the device and shall remain readily operable.

Safety Compliance: Meets IEC/EN 62368-1 international electrical safety standard. Complies with FCC Part 15. Operation is subject to two conditions: 1. No harmful interference. 2. Must accept any interference received.

Caution on Installation: For proper heat dispersal, do not install in a confined space (e.g., bookcase, closed cabinet). More than 0.3m (12in) clearance is recommended. Do not place other equipment on this unit.

FCC Information (for US customers)

This product complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: DO NOT MODIFY THIS PRODUCT

Modification not expressly approved by ARCAM may void your authority to use the product.

This product has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.

If this product causes harmful interference to radio or television reception, try the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the product into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult your local retailer or an experienced radio/TV technician.

Safety Information (for European customers)

• Avoid high temperatures; allow for sufficient heat dispersion.
• Handle the power cord carefully; hold the plug when unplugging.
• Keep the unit free from moisture, water, and dust.
• Unplug the power cord when not using the unit for long periods.
• Do not obstruct ventilation holes.
• Do not let foreign objects or chemicals (insecticides, benzene, thinner) come into contact with the unit.
• Never disassemble or modify the unit.
• Do not cover ventilation openings.
• Do not place naked flame sources (e.g., lighted candles) on the unit.
• Observe local regulations regarding battery disposal.
• Do not expose the unit to dripping or splashing fluids.
• Do not place liquid-filled objects (e.g., vases) on the unit.
• Do not handle the mains cord with wet hands.
• When the switch is OFF, the equipment is not completely switched off from MAINS.
• Install the equipment near the power supply so it is easily accessible.

Recycling: Packaging materials are recyclable. Dispose of materials according to local recycling regulations. Comply with local rules for unit disposal. Batteries should never be thrown away or incinerated but disposed of according to local regulations.

This product and supplied accessories (excluding batteries) constitute the applicable product according to the WEEE directive. Markings indicate this product should not be disposed of with household waste throughout the EU. To prevent harm to the environment or human health from uncontrolled waste disposal, this product should be recycled responsibly. Use local return and collection systems or contact the retailer.

Welcome

Thank you for purchasing the Arcam SA30 integrated amplifier. Arcam has been producing specialist audio products for over four decades. The SA30 is the latest in a long line of award-winning Hi-Fi products, drawing upon Arcam's extensive experience to deliver exceptional stereo amplifier performance. This handbook guides you through installation and use, including advanced features. For further information or assistance, contact your Arcam dealer or visit www.arcam.co.uk.

Overview

The Arcam SA30 integrated amplifier offers class-leading sound quality for both traditional Hi-Fi sources and internet streaming services. It features the powerful Dirac Live room correction functionality, previously acclaimed in Arcam's AVR range. Designed with Arcam's extensive amplifier design experience, it uses high-quality components and engineering for many years of musical pleasure and reliable service. The SA30 aims to bring your music to life.

Placing The Unit

• Place on a level, firm surface, avoiding direct sunlight, heat, or damp.
• Do not place on top of a power amplifier or other heat source.
• Ensure good ventilation; avoid enclosed spaces like bookcases or closed cabinets unless well-ventilated. The SA30 is designed to run warm.
• Do not place other components or items on top of the amplifier, as this obstructs airflow and can cause overheating.
• Ensure the remote-control receiver on the front panel is unobstructed.
• Do not place record decks on this unit due to sensitivity to mains power supply noise.
• Strong electromagnetic interference may disturb normal function; reset the unit or move it if this occurs.

Power Connection

Connect the supplied mains cable to the amplifier's power socket and then to your mains socket. Ensure the plug fits your supply; contact your Arcam dealer if a new mains lead is required.

Interconnect Cables

Use high-quality screened cables designed for audio applications. Keep cables as short as practically possible. Keep mains power-supply cabling away from audio cables to prevent unwanted noise.

Trademark Acknowledgments

• Apple, AirPlay, AirPlay logo, iPod, iPhone, and iPad are trademarks of Apple Inc. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc. AirPlay 2 compatibility requires specific Apple devices and software versions.
• Wi-Fi CERTIFIED Logo is a certification mark of the Wi-Fi Alliance.
• Google, Google Play, Chromecast built-in, and related marks are trademarks of Google LLC. Google Assistant availability varies by country and language.
• MPEG Layer-3 audio decoding technology licensed from Fraunhofer IIS and Thomson multimedia.
• FLAC Decoder Copyright © 2000-2008 Josh Coalson. Redistribution and use permitted under specific conditions.
• MQA and the Sound Wave Device are registered trademarks of MQA Limited. MQA technology delivers the sound of the original master recording. MQA or MQA. indicates decoding and playback of MQA files/streams, ensuring source authenticity.

Front Panel Connections and Controls

The front panel features:

• POWER INDICATOR AND POWER SWITCH: Indicates amplifier status (red to orange to white when powered on).
• PHONES: 3.5mm stereo socket for headphones. Pre-amp outputs and speakers are muted when headphones are plugged in, unless configured otherwise.
• AUX INPUT: 3.5mm stereo socket for connecting external analogue sources.
• VOLUME CONTROL: Adjusts audio volume.
• Control Buttons:
  • MENU: Opens the setup menu.
  • INPUT- / INPUT+: Selects audio input sources.
  • DIRAC: Selects the Dirac room EQ curve.
  • MUTE: Mutes audio outputs.
  • INFO: Cycles through displayed information for NET and USB inputs.
  • DIRECT: Enables/disables Analogue Direct listening mode.
  • DISPLAY: Adjusts front panel display brightness.
  • BAL: Adjusts left/right audio balance.

Note: The SA30 is designed to run warm; extended high-volume use may make the casework hot.

Rear Panel Connections and Controls

The rear panel provides:

• POWER INLET: For connecting the mains power cable.
• VOLTAGE SELECT: Switch to match local power supply (115V or 230V).
• ARC/eARC: Connects to a TV's HDMI ARC/eARC port for audio return.
• WiFi ANTENNA: For wireless network connection.
• DIGITAL AUDIO INPUTS: Two coaxial and two optical connectors for digital sources (e.g., SAT, GAME, AV, BD, CD, PVR, STB). Supports two-channel PCM audio only.
• SPEAKER TERMINALS: Connect loudspeakers here (4-16 OHMS).
• NETWORK: Ethernet port for wired network connection to a router.
• USB Type A: For playback of audio files from pen drives.
• RS232: For remote control from third-party home automation systems.
• ANALOGUE AUDIO INPUTS: Phono (MM/MC) and line-level inputs (e.g., CD, PVR, STB, AUX).
• PRE-AMPLIFIER OUTPUT: For use in bi-amplified systems.
• PHONO GROUND CONNECTION: Connect turntable earth lead here.

Connecting Loudspeakers

Single Wiring: Connect the amplifier's positive (+) terminal to the speaker's positive terminal and the negative (-) terminal to the negative terminal. If speakers have multiple terminals, use those labelled 'LF' or 'Low Frequency' for single wiring.

Bi-Amping: This method uses two amplifiers per channel. The SA30 typically drives the high-frequency (treble) speakers via terminals labelled 'HF' or 'High Frequency'. A second amplifier drives the low-frequency (bass) speakers via terminals labelled 'LF' or 'Low Frequency'. For bi-amping, the metal strips connecting LF and HF terminals on the speakers MUST BE REMOVED. Failure to do so can damage both amplifiers.

Notes on Making Connections: Ensure the amplifier is switched off and disconnected from the mains before making connections. Double-check all connections for correctness (positive to positive, negative to negative) and ensure no bare wires are touching. After connecting, switch on, select a source, and gradually increase volume.

Operation

Switching On

The power button ⏻ switches the unit on and off. The status indicator LED changes color (red → orange → white) when mains power is connected and the unit is switched on.

Auto Standby

To comply with regulations, the unit enters a low-power standby mode if no user interaction or audio signal is detected for an extended period (default 20 minutes). This can be configured or disabled in the setup menu.

Display

Use the DISPLAY button to adjust the front panel display brightness (settings: Dark, Dim, Bright). The default is Bright.

Selecting An Audio Source

Sources can be selected using the front panel buttons (INPUT-, INPUT+) or the remote control. Inputs include:

• Digital Audio Inputs: Optical and coaxial inputs for digital sources. Supports two-channel PCM audio only. Do not send multichannel audio.
• Analogue Audio Inputs: Line-level inputs (AUX, STB, PVR, CD, AV, SAT, GAME, BD). AUX is a 3.5mm input on the front panel.
• Phono Input: Dedicated inputs for Moving Magnet (MM) or Moving Coil (MC) cartridges. Use the correct input for your cartridge type to avoid damage. Never connect a standard line-level source to the phono input.
• USB: For playback of audio files from USB drives.
• Network Audio Inputs: For AirPlay, Chromecast built-in, or NAS drive playback via the Arcam MusicLife app.
• ARC/eARC input: Connect to a TV's HDMI ARC/eARC port for audio return. CEC must be enabled in settings for the SA30 to wake from standby via TV commands.

Listening

• Volume Control: Use the volume knob or remote buttons to adjust volume.
• Listening Using Headphones: The PHONES socket accepts headphones. Speakers and pre-outs are muted when headphones are plugged in, but this can be configured in the setup menu ('Phones Ovr').
• Muting The Output: Press the MUTE button to silence outputs. The power indicator turns orange and the display shows "MUTE". Press again or adjust volume to cancel mute.
• Analogue Direct: This mode bypasses the ADC, DSP, and DAC for a direct analogue signal path, offering the purest signal. It can only be applied to CD, PVR, STB, and PHONO inputs. Dirac Live room correction cannot be applied when Analogue Direct is enabled. The display shows an icon ? when Analogue Direct is enabled.
• Processor Mode: Allows the SA30 to be set to a fixed level, typically used for integration with external processors. Can be assigned to most analogue inputs (except PHONO).
• Pre-Amplifier Output: Sockets for connecting to the inputs of a power amplifier for bi-amplification or system expansion.
• Adjusting The Balance: Use the BAL control to adjust the left/right channel balance for optimal stereo imaging.

Connecting to a Network

Connect the SA30 to your home network via wired (Ethernet) or wireless (Wi-Fi) connection to use AirPlay and Chromecast built-in. Ensure the Wi-Fi antenna is fitted for wireless connections. Wired connection automatically disables Wi-Fi.

Home Automation Control

When networked, the SA30 can be controlled remotely via home automation software or RS232 commands. Contact your dealer or installer for details. Technical protocol details are available from Arcam.

AirPlay Setup

• Wired: Connect Ethernet cable. Ensure Apple device is on the same network. Select SA30 as AirPlay audio device.
• Wireless: Ensure Apple device is on the target Wi-Fi network. Install Wi-Fi antennas on SA30. Open Wi-Fi settings on Apple device, select 'Set up new AirPlay speaker', and follow on-screen instructions.

Chromecast built-in Setup

• Wired: Connect Ethernet cable. Download and open the Google Home app. Follow prompts to set up the SA30. Cast audio from supported apps by selecting SA30 as the playback device.
• Wireless: Install Wi-Fi antennas. Download and open the Google Home app. Follow prompts to set up the SA30. Cast audio from supported apps by selecting SA30 as the playback device.

Note: The SA30 will appear as 'SA30-xxxxxx' in AirPlay and Chromecast setup menus, where 'xxxxxx' is the unit's MAC address.

Dirac Live for Arcam

The SA30 features Dirac Live room correction, a proprietary automatic loudspeaker setup function from Dirac Research. It uses a supplied calibration microphone and a PC/Mac application to set speaker settings and calculate room equalization (Room EQ) filters. This corrects for resonant frequencies in the listening room.

Setup Guidance:

• Minimize background noise.
• Close windows and doors.
• Turn off fans and air-conditioning.
• Mount the microphone on a tripod.
• Position the microphone at listening height, pointing upwards, with an unobstructed view of all speakers.

The application plays calibration tones through each speaker, and the SA30 analyzes the signals to apply corrections. Room EQ is not applied by default to all inputs and can be enabled per input via the setup menu or front panel/remote.

While Room EQ is beneficial, physical room treatments and proper loudspeaker positioning are recommended for optimal results.

Problems with Dirac Live:

Issues can arise from external sounds, sound reflections, strong room resonances, or obstacles between speakers and the microphone. For the most accurate results, manual setup may be preferred.

Downloading Dirac Live:

The Dirac Live for Arcam PC/Mac application and quick start guide are available at: live.dirac.com.

Using Dirac:

Up to three Dirac EQ curves can be stored and applied to different inputs. Enable curves via the setup menu or the DIRAC button. The display shows a Dirac icon ? when Dirac is active.

Remote Control

The SA30 comes with a backlit, universal remote control capable of controlling up to 8 devices. It is pre-programmed for Arcam components and includes an extensive library for third-party AV equipment.

Setup:

• Install two AAA batteries.
• Ensure a clear line of sight to the SA30's front panel.
• Backlight: Illuminates for 8 seconds when a key is pressed.
• LED Blinks: Indicate valid key presses or programming status.
• Timeouts: Remote exits programming after 30 seconds of inactivity. Continuous key presses are limited to conserve battery.
• Low Voltage Indicator: Backlight flashes briefly when batteries are low.

The remote complies with FCC Part 15 rules.

Device Mode/Source Keys:

Buttons have multiple functions depending on the selected 'device mode' (e.g., AMP, BD, CD, AV, SAT, PVR). Pressing a source key selects that input on the SA30 and changes the remote's functionality to control the selected device.

Volume Control:

By default, volume and mute buttons always control the SA30's volume ('punch through'), regardless of the selected device mode. This feature can be individually disabled per mode.

Customising the Remote:

The remote offers Code Learning to copy up to 16 functions from original remotes. It also supports Direct Code Setup and Library Search Setup for programming codes for various brands. Learned functions are mode-dependent and retained through battery changes.

Deleting Learned Data:

Specific learned functions or all learned data for a device can be deleted following procedures outlined in the manual.

Locking/Unlocking Device Modes:

Default Arcam device modes (AMP, CD) are locked to prevent accidental reprogramming. Other modes (AV, PC USB, GAME, STB, SAT, PVR) are unlocked. Modes can be toggled between locked and unlocked status.

Hidden Commands:

Special key combinations (e.g., AMP + Power) can trigger specific functions like power on/off or resolution changes.

Factory Default Reset:

The remote can be reset to factory defaults by pressing and holding specific keys.

Device Codes:

Extensive tables listing 3-digit codes for various manufacturers' devices (Amplifiers, CD Players, DVD Players, Blu-ray Players, Satellite STBs, TVs, etc.) are provided in the original manual to aid in setting up the universal remote control. These tables help users program the remote to control different audio-visual components.

Troubleshooting

• No Sound: Check power, source connection, input selection, and mute status. Ensure the unit is not in protection mode.
• Sound Cuts Out Unexpectedly: The SA30 may enter protection mode due to faults.
  • Flashing White LED: Unit overheated. Allow to cool.
  • Flashing Red LED: Speaker short circuit detected. Inspect speaker cables for shorts.
  • Flashing Orange LED: DC offset detected.

  In any protection mode, the amplifier turns off power to speakers. Remove the fault and cycle power (OFF then ON) to resume operation.

• Erratic/No Remote Response: Check for fresh batteries, clear line of sight to the front panel, and ensure the remote is in the correct mode (e.g., AMP mode for SA30 control).
• Front Panel Display Blank: Ensure the display hasn't been turned off. Press the DISPLAY button.
• Hum on Analogue Input: Check all cable connections are secure. Ensure source cable connectors are not broken or poorly soldered. If hum occurs only with a specific source, check its aerial/dish connection for ground isolation.

SA30 Specifications

Note: Specifications are typical and subject to change without notice.

Worldwide Guarantee

The unit is covered by a five-year warranty for parts and labour from the purchase date, provided it was bought from an authorized Arcam dealer. Disc drives are covered for three years. The warranty does not cover battery replacement or transportation costs. Claims require the unit to be returned to the dealer in original packaging, carriage prepaid. Arcam is not responsible for damage during transit. For further details, contact Arcam Customer Support.

Device Code Tables

Extensive tables listing 3-digit codes for various manufacturers' devices (Amplifiers, CD Players, DVD Players, Blu-ray Players, Satellite STBs, TVs, etc.) are provided in the original manual to aid in setting up the universal remote control. These tables help users program the remote to control different audio-visual components.