The Alpha 8SE shares the same proven CD transport mechanism and motherboard design as the other CD players in the Alpha range, gaining its performance edge from an improved DAC (digital to analogue conversion) module. The module incorporates a new data reclocking circuit, to minimise digital jitter, and the highly acclaimed Pacific Microsonics PMD 100 digital filter and HDCD® decoder chip. This is carefully matched to a pulse width modulated bitstream D/A converter and audiophile quality analogue output stages similar to those used in the Alpha 8 CD player.

The main benefit of the upgraded electronics incorporated in the Alpha 8SE is the improved sound quality you will hear on all conventional CDs. There is more detail, depth and clarity than before. Music is simply more enjoyable!

In addition the Alpha 8SE brings HDCD (High Definition Compatible Digital®) decoding to affordable hi-fi. HDCD is the patented Pacific Microsonics mastering and playback technology, which extends the perceived dynamic range of an encoded 16 bit CD. The aim is to provide a higher fidelity of audio reproduction than has previously been available. There is a large range of compact discs available with HDCD coding, including work by mainstream artists such as Mark Knopfler, Jimi Hendrix and Joni Mitchell. Whilst these discs play back perfectly well on a conventional CD player, they sound clearly better on an HDCD equipped model such as the Alpha 8 SE. And because the Pacific Microsonics' digital filter helps give the Alpha 8SE superior performance even when used with conventional CDs, the overall result is great sound from all types of music CDs in your collection. So with the Alpha 8SE in your system you won't need to replace any discs or change anything except, perhaps, the way you enjoy high definition natural sound!

Whilst sound quality is usually the main reason for choosing a hi-fi component, other factors, including ease of use, good looks, reliability and upgradeability, are also important. You will be reassured to know that the Arcam Alpha 8SE is a leader in all of these areas.

The front panel controls include pause, repeat, track skip, high speed search and 24-track programming. The easy to read 8 digit display may be dimmed or even turned off, giving a small but audible improvement in sound quality. A separate red LED (Light Emitting Diode), hidden behind the Arcam badge in the top left hand corner of the player, illuminates when an HDCD encoded disc is playing. The smartly styled front panel matches other Arcam hi-fi, including our award winning integrated amplifiers. The remote control handset includes useful extra functions such as 1-10 direct track access, shuffle, intro scan, A-B repeat and time remaining. It also operates the volume controls on suitable Arcam remote ready amplifiers, such as the Alpha 8, 8R, 9, 10 and AV50.

Turning to technical matters, the Alpha 8SE CD player uses the same Sony CD mechanism, power supply and casework as the other CD players in the Alpha range. This ensures reliability - backed up by Arcam's two years parts and labour warranty.

Elsewhere Arcam has, as always, paid attention to detail where it counts. The plug-in DAC module comprises a computer grade through-hole-plated fibreglass PCB, mounted on a custom aluminium extrusion to isolate it from unwanted vibration and electrical interference. Audiophile specification components are used throughout. Two pairs of gold plated phono sockets allow the Alpha 8SE to be connected simultaneously to your main hi-fi system and a multi-room distribution centre or second amplifier elsewhere in the house. A precision (class 1) co-axial digital output is also provided for added flexibility.

Finally, in keeping with many other products in the current Arcam range, the Alpha 8SE is upgradeable to a higher specification in the future. This can be done by substituting the DAC module with, for example, the 24 bit DAC module used within the Alpha 9 CD player.

"Explicit detail, good timing and a smooth easy-going presentation make this HDCD player an excellent all-rounder." Best Buy Hi-Fi Choice, March 1998
Sounds spacious and tonally refined. Technically very well-equipped." BBC Music Magazine, January 2000

back to top