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 built for simple use and high-fidelity sound in a small box. Arcam packed in a slot-loading CD drive, DAB and FM tuners, multiple analog inputs, and a 2 x 20W amplifier. It was the smallest and most affordable model in Arcam's Solo range, and it was pitched as a streamlined alternative to bulky separates. Reviewers called the sound crisp, clean and punchy, and praised the solid build and the ease of use. The power output limits it to smaller rooms.
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 Solo Mini has a restrained, Bauhaus-inspired design where form follows function. The front panel has a narrow strip of pressure-sensitive keys and a two-line display. Inside, 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. It uses a toroidal transformer and 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. Dealers often paired it with KEF iQ 30 speakers. It appealed to listeners who wanted a clean, integrated system without giving up audio quality.
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