Argon Audio SA2 Streaming Amplifier, Black

The Argon Audio SA2 is a streaming amplifier that combines a network player, DAC, phono MM stage and Class D power stage in a housing 22 centimetres wide. That does away with the component many systems otherwise need in addition: a separate streamer. Network cable or Wi-Fi in, speaker cable out — in between sits only this one device.

Why the SA2?

The network side is the real argument. The SA2 speaks AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Chromecast built-in and Tidal Connect, plus UPnP for music from a hard drive in the house. DTS Play-Fi forms the basis for this, and its app also runs Qobuz, Deezer, Amazon Music and internet radio. On the amplifier side, 2 × 100 watts at 4 ohms stand ready, converted via a 32-bit ESS Sabre DAC up to 24 bit/192 kHz.

What you get

Wirelessly, you play directly from your phone, tablet or computer into the network. Over cable, the SA2 takes in the TV via HDMI ARC, a digital source via the optical input, analogue via RCA and the turntable via the phono MM input. The Pre Out passes the signal on to an active subwoofer. Incidentally, a paid subscription isn't a requirement: internet radio, your own files on the network, vinyl and TV sound all play without a monthly commitment.

Who is the SA2 suited for — and who isn't it for?

Honestly: if you only listen via Bluetooth and cable anyway, you don't need the network part and you're just as well off with the SA1 MK2 — which even has the better Bluetooth codecs. If you want to fill a large room with a high volume demand, you should size up. But if you're after a complete, networked system in the smallest possible space, you'll find pretty much exactly the right device here.

Our verdict

The SA2 is proof that a seriously meant streaming system doesn't have to consist of four boxes. It takes cables, devices and operating steps away from the living room without letting a cost-cutting approach show through in the sound. Whether your network plays along and which speakers suit it, we're happy to sort out in advance — HD Zürisee in Wädenswil, 044 680 22 00 or WhatsApp 076 534 22 00 (text only, no calls).

Technical data

• Type: Streaming 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
• Network: Wi-Fi; LAN optional via USB Ethernet adapter
• Streaming protocols: AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Chromecast built-in, Tidal Connect, DTS Play-Fi, UPnP
• Services via DTS Play-Fi: including Tidal, Qobuz, Deezer, Amazon Music, internet radio
• Multiroom: DTS Play-Fi, AirPlay 2, Chromecast
• Bluetooth: 4.2 (AAC, SBC)
• Digital inputs: 1 × HDMI ARC/CEC, 1 × optical (Toslink)
• Analogue inputs: 1 × line (RCA), 1 × phono MM
• Outputs: Pre Out (RCA) for subwoofer or power amp, speaker terminals
• Headphone output: not available
• USB port: for optional Ethernet adapter and firmware updates, not an audio input
• Control: app control via DTS Play-Fi, remote control, auto-on (except phono)
• Standby consumption: < 0.5 W in deep standby, approx. 3.5 W in network standby
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 22 × 6.3 × 25.2 cm
• Weight: 2.2 kg
• Included: SA2, power cable, remote control with batteries, quick guide

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a separate streamer for the Argon Audio SA2?

No, the network player is already built into the amplifier. You connect the SA2 to your Wi-Fi and then play directly via AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Chromecast or Tidal Connect. You don't need an additional playback device, the TV and turntable connect to the existing inputs.

Which streaming services run on the SA2?

Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect are supported directly, plus AirPlay 2 and Chromecast built-in from any suitable device. Via the DTS Play-Fi app, Qobuz, Deezer, Amazon Music and internet radio, among others, are added. You reach your own music files on the network via UPnP, in high resolution too.

Can I connect the SA2 with a network cable?

By default, the SA2 goes onto the network via Wi-Fi. A fixed LAN connection is possible via an optional USB Ethernet adapter on the USB port. That's worthwhile in spots with weak Wi-Fi — tell us what your situation looks like and we'll look at it together.

Why buy the SA2 from HD Zürisee?

Because a streaming amplifier has to work together with the network, speakers and sources, and that's exactly where the questions come up. We help with setup, multiroom and speaker choice, are an authorised dealer, and have our own technician who stays reachable after the purchase too.

Goes well with

Round off the networked system: bookshelf speakers as playing partners, a subwoofer on the Pre Out, a turntable for the phono input, or a look through the whole Argon Audio world.