The Advance Paris PlayStream A7 is the flagship streaming integrated amplifier in the PlayStream range, sitting above the A5 and A1. It delivers 115 watts per channel into 8 ohms in Class AB and features a High Bias mode that operates in pure Class A on the initial wattage, reducing switching distortion for a more refined sound at lower listening levels. Designed and developed in France, the A7 combines a full-featured network streamer, DAB+/FM tuner, phono stage, and high-current amplifier into a single chassis.
Amplifier Section
The power amplifier section produces 115 watts per channel into 8 ohms using a Class AB topology fed by a substantial toroidal transformer. The High Bias switch on the rear panel shifts the output stage into Class A operation for the first watt of output, delivering lower distortion at typical domestic listening levels. Dual sets of speaker terminals (A and B) allow connection of two pairs of speakers, selectable from the front panel. A dedicated subwoofer output is provided for integration with an active sub.
Digital Section & DAC
The built-in DAC uses an AKM AK4490 or PCM1796 chipset paired with an AK4118 or MS8416 digital transceiver. Four S/PDIF inputs are provided: one coaxial supporting up to 24-bit/192kHz PCM and three optical inputs supporting up to 24-bit/96kHz PCM. An HDMI ARC input allows direct audio connection from a television, making the A7 a practical hub for both music and home cinema audio. A front-panel USB Type A port supports playback from USB storage devices.
Network Streaming & Radio
The network streaming module connects via Ethernet or Wi-Fi and provides access to Spotify, Deezer, Qobuz, Tidal, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, vTuner, and Napster. DLNA and AirPlay compatibility allows playback from smartphones, tablets, computers, and NAS drives on the local network. The built-in DAB+ digital tuner and FM tuner provide terrestrial radio reception without an external source component. Bluetooth connectivity is available via the optional X-FTB01 or X-FTB02 receiver modules, supporting aptX HD for higher-quality wireless audio.
Analogue Inputs & Phono Stage
Six analogue RCA inputs are provided, including a dedicated configurable phono input for connecting a turntable. The remaining inputs (CD, AUX 1, AUX 2, AUX 3, AUX 4) accommodate additional analogue source components. A record output allows connection to a recording device, and a pre-amplifier output enables use with an external power amplifier. The Amp In connection bypasses the preamp section entirely, allowing the A7 to be used as a power amplifier only.
Design & Build
The front panel features twin analogue VU meters flanking a central display, giving the A7 a distinctive appearance in the Advance Paris range. Two front-panel headphone outputs (Phones 1 and Phones 2) allow private listening for two people simultaneously. The chassis measures 430 x 370 x 135 mm and weighs 9.3 kg.
| Amplifier Type | Streaming integrated amplifier (Class AB with High Bias Class A mode) |
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| Power Output | 115W per channel (8 ohms) |
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| Frequency Response | 20 Hz – 80 kHz (±3 dB) |
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| Total Harmonic Distortion | <0.004% (1 kHz / 24 W) |
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| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 98 dB |
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| DAC | AKM AK4490 / PCM1796 |
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| Digital Inputs | 1 × coaxial (24-bit/192 kHz), 3 × optical (24-bit/96 kHz) |
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| HDMI | 1 × HDMI ARC |
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| USB | 1 × USB Type A (front panel) |
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| Analogue Inputs | 6 × RCA (including configurable phono) |
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| Outputs | Pre out, rec out, subwoofer out |
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| Speaker Outputs | 2 pairs (A + B) |
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| Headphone Outputs | 2 × 6.35 mm (front panel) |
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| Network | Ethernet, Wi-Fi |
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| Streaming Services | Spotify, Deezer, Qobuz, Tidal, TuneIn, iHeartRadio, vTuner, Napster |
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| Network Protocols | DLNA, AirPlay |
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| Bluetooth | Via optional X-FTB01/X-FTB02 module (aptX HD) |
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| Tuner | DAB+, FM |
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| Dimensions (W × D × H) | 430 × 370 × 135 mm |
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| Weight | 9.3 kg |
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| Power Consumption | 400 W max |
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| Design Origin | Designed and developed in France |
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