replacement for arcam amp

[scooters]

All, after a bit of advice before I hit the shops.
My Arcam Alpha 9 amp needs replacing as the input selector has had it and arcam cannot repair it. I have tried switch cleaner etc but to no avail. The amp is circa 14 years old and that was really the last time that I read up on hifi kit so, to say that I am a bit out of the loop is a bit of an understatement. Just after some pointers before heading for demos

I like the sound of the amp so I would like something comparable but have no idea where to start when looking for replacements

The kit that it will be linked up to is as follows:
Kef Q35 main speakers primary (living room)
Monitor audio bronze b1 secondary (kitchen)
Arcam 7se cd player

In addition, I have also hooked up the following to the amp, appreciate that sound quality will not be great but hey ho.
Ipod - music
humax freesat - radio
sony blueray 570 - radio

I've also got a load of music on the computer, do any amps (non AV ones) have ethernet ports which I could hook up to the pc, or not adverse to having a logitec device.

One final thing, one of the best parts of the amp is that it is has 2 speaker outputs where I can select A only, B only or A and B. This is really useful but appreciate again that I could use an external device to switch the output.

Cost, well, was thinking around the £500-£750 mark but have no idea what is out there so open to suggestions. Also, not that fussed with buying the most up to date bit of kit so last years model is a possibility.

Anyway, sorry for rambling on but any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

[TheInternet]

scooters said:

All, after a bit of advice before I hit the shops.
My Arcam Alpha 9 amp needs replacing as the input selector has had it and arcam cannot repair it. I have tried switch cleaner etc but to no avail.

I have the same issue with mine, unfortunately it's quite common, though I thought Arcam had a means of replacing it with a non-motorised switch, but could be wrong. What I have done with mine is connect it up such that the 'Record' switch is used for input switching, which costs you the remote control of input and the recording output switching. If all you're doing these days is switching between inputs it works perfectly, however I accept it does also remove the excuse to buy a new one. If you want to know the specifics let me know and I'll go and have a look.

[anonymous-user]

Had the same issue with my Alpha 9. Spent ages looking for a replacement. In the end I went for a Cambridge Audio Azur 840A. Very pleased.

Also considered a Nad C355BEE.

For your computer music, look at a Sonos ZP90 (you will need a Sonos Zonebridge to plug into the PC).

Edited by anonymous-user on Saturday 5th March 11:22