Arcam Radia ST5 Network Streamer

The Arcam Radia ST5 is the network streaming source built for the Radia integrated amplifier range — an ESS ES9018 DAC with time-domain jitter elimination, FLAC and DSD128 playback up to 24-bit/192kHz, support for every significant streaming platform, and a dedicated control link that lets the ST5 and a Radia amplifier operate as a single unit from one app or one remote.

Where the ST5 Sits in the Radia Range

The ST5 is the streaming source for the Radia integrated amplifiers — the A5+, A15+ and A25+. The included control link cable allows the streamer and amplifier to power on and off together, and to operate from a single Radia app. It is a cleaner solution than running an independent streamer with separate volume and input control.

For CD libraries, the Radia CD5 pairs naturally alongside the ST5 — matched 431mm footprint, and both feeding into the same amplifier's input switching. The ST5 sits physically lower than the amplifiers it pairs with at 57mm high (the amplifiers and CD5 are 83mm), so it either stacks neatly or sits slightly lower on an equipment shelf.

For listeners who want a more capable streamer with a colour display, balanced DAC architecture, DSD256 and a two-year Roon subscription included, the ST25 is the step up from the ST5.

Sound and Performance

The ESS ES9018 DAC is well regarded, and Arcam's implementation adds time-domain jitter elimination — a circuit that reduces timing errors in the digital signal before they reach the DAC. Jitter is one of the primary causes of a digital source sounding edgy or fatiguing; addressing it at source rather than downstream keeps the presentation natural. The frequency response of ±0.05dB from 20Hz to 20kHz is consistent with the CD5 and the rest of the Radia range.

High-resolution playback up to 24-bit/192kHz via streaming or local network files captures everything the major streaming services actually deliver — Tidal HiFi Plus and Qobuz Studio both deliver 24-bit/192kHz as their ceiling. DSD128 support extends to native DSD files for listeners with DSD libraries. Gapless playback is supported throughout, which matters for classical and live albums where track gaps break the musical flow.

Isolated components with individual power supplies within the ST5 keep noise from the streaming and Wi-Fi circuitry out of the audio signal path. This is not cosmetic engineering: Wi-Fi and digital processing are significant noise sources, and their proximity to the DAC output stage matters.

Build Quality and Design

The ST5 is 57mm high rather than the 83mm of the CD5 and Radia amplifiers — a natural result of containing no disc mechanism. The 431 × 344mm footprint matches the rest of the Radia range exactly, and the 3.5kg weight reflects a compact but well-constructed chassis. The front panel is clean and uncluttered; control happens via the Radia app, the included remote, or the amplifier it is paired with.

Connectivity and System Matching

One stereo RCA analogue output pair, one coaxial digital output (RCA) and one optical Toslink cover all standard connection options. Ethernet and Wi-Fi handle network connection; the included control cable provides the direct link to a compatible Radia amplifier. AirPlay, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz Connect and Roon Ready cover every major platform currently in use.

Technical Specifications

Who Is the ST5 For?

The ST5 suits the listener building or completing a Radia system who wants all the major streaming platforms with high-resolution support and an integrated setup. It is the right choice if the Radia control link matters to you — single-app, single-remote operation is genuinely convenient. If you want a colour display, DSD256, Roon included as standard, or a more capable DAC architecture, the ST25 is worth the additional investment.

Buying from Martins Hi-Fi

Martins Hi-Fi has been in Norwich since 1968. Elizabeth Gould runs the business today, and we stock only brands we have heard properly and stand behind. Arcam have been a core part of our range for many years — Dave and Chris can talk you through whether the ST5 or the full Radia system is the right fit for your room and system, and have it set up in our showroom for you to hear.

Contact us at info@martinshifi.co.uk, call 01603 627010, or WhatsApp on 07554 687137. You can read more about how we work on our Why Martins Hi-Fi page. We are at 85–91 Ber Street, Norwich, NR1 3EY.