The Advance Paris PlayStream A1 sits within the French manufacturer’s PlayStream range of connected audio components. Advance Paris (formerly Advance Acoustic) has been designing hi-fi electronics in France since 1995, and the PlayStream A1 represents their approach to an all-in-one streaming amplifier — combining a Class AB power amplifier, network streamer, Bluetooth receiver, HDMI ARC input, and MM phono stage in a single chassis.
Amplification
The A1 delivers 2 × 52W into 6Ω in Class AB. The amplifier section covers a frequency response of 20Hz to 80kHz (±3dB), with total harmonic distortion measured at less than 0.004% at 1kHz and 24W. The signal-to-noise ratio is 98dB. A dedicated 6.3mm headphone output is provided on the front panel, alongside the front-mounted USB-A input for playback from USB storage devices (FAT32, up to 128GB).
Digital-to-Analogue Conversion
Digital signals are handled by an Asahi Kasei AKM DAC, supporting high-resolution audio up to 24-bit/192kHz via the coaxial input. The two optical inputs support up to 24-bit/96kHz. This DAC serves all digital sources — network streams, digital inputs, and USB playback alike.
Streaming & Network Connectivity
The built-in network player connects via Ethernet (RJ45) or Wi-Fi and provides access to Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz, Deezer, TuneIn, and internet radio. The A1 is DLNA-compatible, allowing playback from a NAS or any UPnP server on the local network. Bluetooth connectivity supports aptX, AAC, and SBC codecs for wireless streaming from phones and tablets.
Connectivity
The rear panel carries a comprehensive set of inputs and outputs. Analogue sources are accommodated by three RCA line inputs and a switchable MM phono/auxiliary input — the phono stage allows direct connection of a turntable with a moving-magnet cartridge. Digital sources connect via two optical Toslink inputs, one coaxial RCA input, and an HDMI ARC port. The HDMI ARC input allows the A1 to receive audio directly from a television, effectively turning it into the audio hub for a home entertainment system. A stereo RCA pre-out (switchable between fixed and variable level) and a dedicated subwoofer output provide flexibility for system expansion.
Build & Design
The A1 is housed in a brushed aluminium and steel chassis measuring 430 × 135 × 370mm and weighing 6.55kg. The front panel features a central VFD display, a large aluminium volume control, and machined aluminium feet. A full-function remote control is included.
| Power Output | 2 × 52W (6Ω, Class AB) |
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| Frequency Response | 20Hz – 80kHz (±3dB) |
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| THD | < 0.004% (1kHz, 24W) |
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| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 98dB |
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| Output Impedance | 10kΩ |
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| DAC | Asahi Kasei AKM, 24-bit/192kHz |
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| Analogue Inputs | 3 × RCA line, 1 × MM phono (switchable) |
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| Digital Inputs | 2 × optical Toslink (24/96), 1 × coaxial RCA (24/192), 1 × HDMI ARC |
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| USB | 1 × USB-A (front, FAT32, up to 128GB) |
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| Outputs | 1 × stereo RCA pre-out (fixed/variable), 1 × subwoofer RCA, 1 × headphone (6.3mm) |
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| Network | Ethernet (RJ45), Wi-Fi, DLNA |
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| Bluetooth | aptX, AAC, SBC |
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| Streaming Services | Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz, Deezer, TuneIn, internet radio |
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| Speaker Terminals | Binding posts (8Ω) |
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| Power Consumption | 180W maximum |
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| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 430 × 135 × 370mm |
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| Weight | 6.55kg |
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| Finish | Black with brushed aluminium front panel |
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| Included Accessories | Remote control, Wi-Fi antenna, power cable |
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