What Hi Fi Sound and Vision
29 APR 2009
Arcam T32
As Keats so nearly said, a radio of beauty is a joy forever.
A good DAB/FM tuner can reward like little else, but a glance at this magazine's
Buyer's Guide reveals a tragic paucity of radio tuners.
Arcam has always understood the value of radio, and its latest blockily handsome device includes a big, clear display, a big, clear remote control and DAB/FM/MW reception.
It’s DAB+ compatible too, should that day ever dawn, and offers full iPod functionality via Arcam’s rLead or rDock. There’s also an RS232 interface included.
A rich, atmospheric performanceThe standard of DAB broadcasts is wildly variable, of course, but given a fair quality of broadcast the T32 locks on determinedly and delivers a rich, atmospheric performance.
Voices are packed with character, and the differences in broadcast environments are made explicit.
Music radio benefits from snappy low-frequency presence, good dynamic ability and shining, chunky treble sounds.
These traits are apparent with FM broadcast too, and given a Radio 3-standard broadcast to deal with the T32 is a broad and authoritative performer.
The soundstage is big enough to allow a symphony orchestra room to flex its muscles, and the Arcam’s dynamic poke and pudding-sweet tonality make for an invigorating listen.
System-matching needed Downsides are few. At the price it’s not going to find its way into every system, and even if your set-up justifies the outlay, the T32 won’t overly enjoy being partnered with a warm, rich amp’n’speakers combo.
But where it does fit snugly, the Arcam is as bracing a tuner as we’ve heard in a good while.