Arcam Solo Mini
A compact all-in-one stereo CD receiver with integrated DAB/FM tuner and USB media support
Overview
The Arcam Solo Mini is a stereo CD receiver and all-in-one music system designed for simplicity and high-fidelity sound in a compact form. Built by Arcam, it integrates a slot-loading CD drive, DAB and FM tuners, multiple analog inputs, and a 2 x 20W amplifier in a minimalist enclosure. It was positioned as the smallest and most affordable model in Arcam's Solo range, offering a streamlined alternative to bulky separates. Reviewers noted its crisp, clean, and punchy sound, solid build quality, and ease of use, though its power output limits it to smaller listening environments.
Specifications
| Power output | 2 x 20W |
| Dimensions (Width) | 220mm |
| Dimensions (Height) | 70mm |
| Dimensions (Depth) | 260mm |
| Weight | 2.5kg |
| Frequency response | 40Hz-20kHz (±3dB) |
| Signal-to-noise ratio | 90dB |
| Total harmonic distortion | <0.01% |
| Damping factor | >100 |
| Input sensitivity | 200mV |
| Speaker impedance | 6-8 ohms |
| Power consumption | 15W |
| Front panel connections | 3.5mm headphone jack, 3.5mm auxiliary input, USB interface for storage media |
| Rear panel connections | Four analog audio inputs, two analog audio outputs, FM & DAB antenna sockets, RS232 control interface, loudspeaker terminals |
| Tuner | FM, DAB |
| CD drive | Slot-loading |
| Display | Two-line display |
| Included remote | Yes |
| Optional accessory | iPod-Dock "rDock" (connects via RS232) |
Design
The Arcam Solo Mini features a restrained, Bauhaus-inspired design where form follows function. The front panel includes a narrow strip of pressure-sensitive keys and a two-line display. Internally, it uses high-quality components from Arcam’s FMJ series, D/A converters and a precision clock generator from the CD73, and the same output transistors as the Solo Music. The amplifier section is derived from the Arcam A18 and employs a toroidal transformer with a Class G output stage for efficient power delivery.
Context
As the smallest and most affordable model in Arcam's Solo range, the Solo Mini was marketed as a space-saving, high-performance alternative to traditional separates. It was often paired with KEF iQ 30 speakers by dealers and appealed to listeners seeking a clean, integrated system without sacrificing audio quality.
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