Argon Audio SA1 MK2 Integrated Amplifier, White

The Argon Audio SA1 MK2 in White is a compact-class integrated amplifier that combines a Class D power stage, 32-bit converter, phono MM input and HDMI ARC in a single slim device. The light housing disappears on a bookshelf or sideboard instead of sitting there like a technical block — and yet the whole system hangs off it.

Why the SA1 MK2?

Behind the plain front works a Class D circuit with 2 × 50 watts at 8 ohms, doubling to 2 × 100 watts at 4 ohms. The 32-bit ESS Sabre converter runs fully balanced and accepts up to 24 bit/192 kHz at the optical input. The frequency response runs from 3 to 60,000 hertz at under 0.03 percent distortion. You could say: the device is considerably less conspicuous than its measurements.

What you get

Four sources fit without any extra box: the TV on HDMI ARC, a digital source on the optical input, something analogue on RCA and the turntable on the phono MM input. Wirelessly, Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD joins in. If the bass ever isn't enough for you, just connect an active subwoofer via the Pre Out. The auto-on wakes the amplifier as soon as a signal is present — except for phono, where you deliberately switch on yourself.

Who is the SA1 MK2 suited for — and who isn't it for?

Honestly: if you want to run large floorstanding speakers in a spacious room and really crank the volume, you should think a size bigger. Anyone wanting to stream their music library over the network is also better off with the SA2. But if you're setting up a second system in the bedroom or study, or want to keep a living room slim, you get an unusually large amount of function per centimetre here.

Our verdict

A device for anyone who wants an honest system without setting up three boxes for it. The white finish makes that a little easier still, since it fits into bright interiors instead of dominating them. Which speakers suit it and how to integrate the turntable properly, we're happy to discuss in person — 044 680 22 00, WhatsApp 076 534 22 00 (text only, no calls) or a visit to HD Zürisee in Wädenswil.

Technical data

• Type: Integrated amplifier with DAC and phono MM stage (Class D)
• Output power: 2 × 100 W at 4 Ω / 2 × 50 W at 8 Ω
• DAC: 32-bit ESS Sabre, fully balanced operation
• Max. resolution: 24 bit/192 kHz (optical input)
• THD: < 0.03 %
• Frequency range: 3–60,000 Hz
• Digital inputs: 1 × HDMI ARC/CEC, 1 × optical (Toslink)
• Analogue inputs: 1 × line (RCA), 1 × phono MM
• Bluetooth: 5.0 (aptX, aptX HD, AAC)
• Network streaming: not available
• Outputs: Pre Out (RCA) for subwoofer or power amp, speaker terminals
• Headphone output: not available
• USB port: 5V power supply for external devices and firmware updates, not an audio input
• Standby consumption: < 0.5 W
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 22 × 6.3 × 25.2 cm
• Weight: 2.2 kg
• Included: SA1 MK2, power cable, remote control with batteries, quick guide

Frequently asked questions

What's the USB port on the SA1 MK2 for?

The USB port supplies 5 volts of power for a small external device and is used for firmware updates. You can't play music through it, it's not an audio input. Instead, you connect digital sources to the amplifier via the optical input or HDMI ARC.

Is the SA1 MK2's power enough for my living room?

For bookshelf speakers and compact floorstanders in rooms up to around 30 square metres, 2 × 100 watts at 4 ohms is generally more than enough. What matters is your speakers' efficiency and impedance, not the raw wattage. Tell us your model and we'll honestly tell you if it fits.

What's the difference between the SA1 MK2 and the SA2?

The SA2 additionally brings Wi-Fi and network streaming — AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Chromecast and multiroom via DTS Play-Fi. The SA1 MK2 stays with Bluetooth and cables, but with the better Bluetooth codecs aptX and aptX HD. Power stage, converter and connections are largely identical on both.

Why buy the SA1 MK2 from HD Zürisee?

Because we've known for years which devices hold up in everyday use and which only shine on the spec sheet. We work through room, speakers and placement with you, deliver and install on-site on request, and have our own technician in-house for service and questions.

Goes well with

To turn the amplifier into a system: bookshelf speakers or slim floorstanding speakers, matching speaker stands and everything around vinyl for the phono input.