Advance Paris PlayStream A5 Streaming Amplifier

The Advance Paris PlayStream A5 is a streaming integrated amplifier that brings together a network player, DAB+/FM tuner, D/A converter, phono preamp and Class AB power stage in one housing.

2×80 watts into 8 ohms, 2×130 watts into 4 ohms, six configurable analog inputs, four digital inputs – and two blue-illuminated VU meters that make the whole thing look like 1975 and work like today.

Why the PlayStream A5?

Streaming devices usually look like Wi-Fi routers with ambitions. Not the A5: two analog VU needles, a central display, classic rotary knobs. Behind that sits a real Class AB power stage with High-Bias switching that operates close to Class A for the first watts. HIFITEST certified the A5 in its test (issue 3/2021) a successful connection between the old and new hi-fi worlds with excellent signal-to-noise ratio, and The Audiophile Man praised the sound quality in 2025 as a clear upgrade over the entry class.

The second reason is the connection panel. Six analog inputs, one switchable to phono – either MM or MC with two gain stages. Four digital inputs, USB-A, DAB+ and FM, plus Pre-Out, Rec-Out, Amp-In and two subwoofer outputs. You'd have to really work to find a source that doesn't fit here.

What you hear

Composure. The A5 doesn't push itself forward but lays out music calmly and colorfully: voices with body, strings without harshness, a bass that holds its contour instead of bulging. The High-Bias circuit pays off exactly where you listen most – at room volume the sound feels finely resolved instead of constricted. And when you turn it up, the 130 watts into 4 ohms stay orderly instead of tipping into mush.

Who is the PlayStream A5 right for?

For anyone who wants a grown-up system in one device: larger speakers, larger rooms, many sources – and a housing you're happy to look at even when nothing's playing. If you use vinyl, radio and network equally, you're right at home here.

Plain talk, who it's not for: if you mostly stream from your phone via Bluetooth, you're better off with the PlayStream A1 – it has Bluetooth from the factory, while on the A5 it's an optional module. If you want to connect the TV via HDMI, you need the A7; the A5 has no HDMI ARC. And a CD drive isn't on board either.

Our verdict

The PlayStream A5 is proof that streaming and classic hi-fi aren't opposites. Retro outside, modern inside – and sonically one of the most honest statements in this price range.

Technical specifications

• Type: Streaming integrated amplifier / network receiver
• Output power: 2 × 80 W into 8 ohms / 2 × 130 W into 4 ohms (Class AB, High Bias)
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 80 kHz
• Distortion (THD): < 0.004 % (1 kHz / 24 W)
• Signal-to-noise ratio: > 98 dB
• D/A converter: Burr Brown PCM1796, up to 24-bit / 192 kHz
• Radio: DAB+, FM, internet radio
• Network & wireless: Ethernet (RJ45), Wi-Fi, AirPlay, DLNA
• Streaming services: Spotify Connect, Qobuz, Tidal, Deezer, Napster, internet radio via TuneIn, vTuner and iHeartRadio
• Analog inputs: 6 × RCA configurable, 1 of which Phono – switchable MM / MC (two gain stages)
• Digital inputs: 1 × coaxial (24-bit/192 kHz), 3 × optical (24-bit/96 kHz)
• USB: USB-A for audio files
• Outputs: 1 speaker pair, Pre-Out, Rec-Out, Amp-In, 2 × Subwoofer Out, 2 × 12V trigger
• Output level: Pre-Out controlled via volume (pre-/power amp separable); Rec-Out fixed
• Headphone output: available – 6.35 mm and 3.5 mm jack on the front
• Bluetooth: not from the factory – upgradeable via X-FTB01 (aptX) or X-FTB02 (aptX HD)
• Special feature: 2 illuminated VU meters
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 43 × 13.5 × 37 cm
• Weight: 8.1 kg

Frequently asked questions

What is the Advance Paris PlayStream A5?

A streaming integrated amplifier with Class AB power stage, integrated network player, DAB+/FM tuner and phono input. It combines classic hi-fi technology with VU meters and modern streaming – a complete system that just needs speakers. Amplifier power: 2×80 watts into 8 ohms.

Does the PlayStream A5 have Bluetooth?

Not from the factory, but it's prepared for it. With the optional receiver X-FTB01 (aptX) or X-FTB02 (aptX HD), you can add Bluetooth. AirPlay and DLNA for wireless streaming over your home network, on the other hand, are already built in, as is Spotify Connect via Wi-Fi or Ethernet.

Which turntables fit the PlayStream A5?

Practically all of them: the phono input can be switched to MM or MC, and for MC, two gain stages are available for loud and quiet cartridges. So you don't need an external phono preamp – connect the turntable, select the cartridge type, done.

Can I connect headphones to the PlayStream A5?

Yes. Two headphone jacks sit on the front: 6.35 mm for classic hi-fi headphones and 3.5 mm for smaller models. So you don't need an additional headphone amp in the chain for late-night listening.

Do I need a streaming subscription for the PlayStream A5?

No. Tidal, Qobuz and the like are an option, not a requirement. With DAB+, FM, internet radio, phono, USB stick and six analog inputs, the A5 is a full-fledged hi-fi hub even completely without a subscription – ongoing costs only occur if you want them.

Why buy the PlayStream A5 at HD Zürisee?

Because VU meters look pretty in photos, but only really shine with the right speakers. We'll help you work out what suits your room – personally from Wädenswil, by phone +41 44 680 22 00, WhatsApp 076 534 22 00 (text only, no calls) or shop@hdzuerisee.ch.

Goes well with

Powerful floorstanding speakers or refined bookshelf speakers, a turntable for the MM/MC input, a subwoofer for the two sub outputs – and the rest of the brand in the Advance Paris overview.