Arcam Alpha and AA 5 differences ?

[firestorm]

Hello,
Can anyone shed some light on the differences between the original Arcam Alpha and version 5, 5+ ?

I've got the AA1 cct, anyone got 5+ cct ?

Thanks

 

[ron]

The main difference between these two cdp is that the 5+ has a better clock circuit than the standard 5

 

[ron]

Sorry, I just realised
I think the original Alpha may be bitsteam, I know it does not sound as good as the 5 and 5+

 

[firestorm]

Hello Ron,

Nah, bitstream came much later.

My AA1 has a TDA1541A and a SAA7220.

I think its the mechanism thats been improved.

btw, I've listened to the following recently, Arcam FMJ 23, Arcam FMJ 33, Naim CD5, Naim CD5+FC2.

Out of that lot I prefer the CD5+FC2. But guess what, I still think my AA1 sounds more cohesive. Less 'spotlighty' than the CD5.

 

[ron]

Yeah, I think your right, I must have been half a sleep, my modified Alpha 5 has a removeable audio board, but I think this is mainly so it could be upgraded to the Alpha 6 which sounds alot worse than the 5 (this is deffinately bitstream)
Are you thinking about Tweaking your Alpha?

 

[john & Jake]

hi Ron,
could you please post any mods you have done to your Arcam for the benefit of us other owners.

 

[firestorm]

I have a NetAudio Rock clock and psu to go in to my AA1. Also have a nice selection of BB, AD opamps to try.

Will post results and piccies when I find the time to do it.