Arcam - ST60 Audiophile Networked Audio Streamer - Gray

I bought the item used and it just wasn't working, sound was coming out only from 1 channel and then no sound at all. So I returned it.

I purchased the Arcam ST60 from Best Buy on 10/29/2022. I delayed my purchase until I knew that Tidal Connect feature was working with this component. Like Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect allows the use of the native Tidal iOS app to control the Arcam ST60. The only issues that I had with this unit were during the first hour that I was trying to get it to work. Thereafter, I had no problems. After connecting the unit to the Internet, Arcam ST60 will automatically update its software. I think that my initial problems were present because the Tidal Connect functionality, a new feature, had not yet been downloaded. I am thoroughly impressed with his unit, especially while listening to Tidal with a Hifi Plus subscription (MQA). While other users criticize the Arcam MusicLife app, I find that i have little need to use the MusicLife app, since Tidal Connect on an iPad works so seamlessly and flawlessly. With that said, I did not find the MusicLife app difficult to use. Using Airplay, Apple Music is also excellent. Spotify Connect is also wonderful. I use this streamer with an Arcam A49 integrated amplifier with the output set to fixed. I have also changed the output to variable and used the Arcam ST60 as a preamplifier with great results. I have no complaints whatsoever about the sound quality. The bass is plentiful. Most noticeable about the sound quality is the absolute dead silence in the silent parts of music and in between tracks. On the bottom part of the remote, the buttons that are clearly labeled "volume" will only control the volume on Arcam amplifier such as my Arcam A49. In the middle part of the remote, where a circular array of buttons are located, the top and bottom buttons in the circle, which are less conspicuously labeled as "volume", are used to control the volume of the Arcam ST60 when it used as a preamplifier. It took me a while to find this information, so I thought that I would mention it.

After my Bluesound Node 2 died (out of warranty) and Bluesound wanted me to pay $380 to repair it (crazy expensive) decided to try the ARCAM ST60. Oh boy, thanks God my Node 2 died. This streamer sounds incredible. Makes my Node 2 sounds like Sony Walkman from the 80s. The only let down s that it's not Roon Certified yet but it should be getting the certification any time soon. meanwhile I'm using it with its MusicLife app (not so great) and mConnect HD app (much better). I use it mostly to stream from TIDAL (MQA) and from my Synology DS1019+ NAS. Works without any issues.

The Arcam ST60 is a fantastic streamer for anyone serious about audio quality, bringing audiophile-grade sound to digital music streaming. Designed to integrate seamlessly with any high-end stereo system, the ST60 supports a variety of streaming platforms, including Spotify, Tidal, and Qobuz, with Hi-Res Audio compatibility that makes your favorite tracks sound incredibly detailed and lifelike. The sound quality is the standout feature here. Arcam’s signature attention to clarity and warmth really shines, with a natural, balanced soundstage that captures both the highs and lows with impressive depth. The ST60’s ESS Sabre DAC (digital-to-analog converter) plays a big role in this, allowing for smooth and accurate audio reproduction. For those who enjoy FLAC or MQA formats, the ST60 handles these beautifully, ensuring you’re getting the most out of your high-resolution audio files. The design is sleek and modern, with a simple interface that’s easy to navigate, whether you’re using Arcam’s MusicLife app or connecting to the device via AirPlay 2 or Google Chromecast. With options for both wired and wireless connections, the ST60 offers flexibility in setup, making it suitable for different home configurations. Overall, the Arcam ST60 is an excellent investment for audiophiles who want a reliable and high-performing music streamer. With its exceptional sound quality, robust build, and versatile connectivity options, it’s a top choice for anyone looking to elevate their streaming experience.

As a long time fan of Arcam products, it pains me to write this review, but I can't recommend this product. It worked fine out of the box, and sounded wonderful. But since that first day, it's just been problems. Seems to be an issue around the product trying to update itself and crashing. I will turn it on to use, but it will just be a blank screen, or the screen will be glitchy and the product won't work. After the OTA updates kept failing, I downloaded the update to my computer, navigated to the IP address of the unit and uploaded the update manually. Update still failed. Got a USB stick and downloaded the update to that, put in the unit and tried to update over USB . . . update failed. Long story short, I'm returning this. Don't think ARCAM are ready to be programmers.