Arcam Alpha 9 CD player Upgrade

Almost any Hi-Fi component can be upgraded to higher performance using our techniques and components. The two things go together – the know-how and the right component. Over the last 30 years, we have developed our knowledge of where the biggest problems lie and how to overcome them to unleash better performance from a given piece of equipment.


Released back way in 1999. the Arcam Alpha 9 CD player was mid-priced but near the top of the Arcam range at the time.



The distinguishing feature of the Alpha 9 was its DAC module, which had a PMD-100 HDCD digital filter and a dCS Ring-DAC with full 24/96 capability. An odd inclusion as there was no CD material recorded at 24/96 available but it enabled Arcam to at least feature the latest technology and future proof the machine.

Whatever the technology, it was received with great critical acclaim and still holds its own against modern CD players. Even more so with our upgrade!


42 component upgrades/changes are made across the power supply, DAC module and analogue output section. The biggest upgrade being the replacement of components on the DAC module. We use Audio grade Panasonic caps, which in our opinion give a smooth and detailed sound. The player is completely disassembled to gain access to all key areas of upgrade. The transport mechanism is also checked to ensure smooth running.


Upgraded DAC module


To clean up the power supply, first a new high quality 3 pin IEC socket is fitted, then Kimber TCX is used from the IEC socket to the psu board. A Silencer mains filter is fitted as standard. Further conditioning can be added by the inclusion of a ClarityMains™ and Mains Zapperator™ module.




The Arcam Alpha 9 CD player is finally finished with Sound Deadening material fitted to the inside of the lid to reduce mechanical noise. It is also possible to fit Jumbo cone feet as shown in this particular player.





If you don't have exactly the same model as listed above, but a very similar unit, then it's highly likely that the same or similar upgrades will apply. But we can't guarantee that until we have the unit here for inspection. Get in touch and let us know what you have.




Equipment upgrades are proving hugely popular. During peak times there may be a wait of several weeks before we can carry out the upgrade. So before we get your equipment here, it must be booked in so we can ensure a speedy turnaround of the upgrade. Once you have placed your order, we will contact you to arrange a suitable week and getting the equipment here.

In Person
For those of you who are local enough or if you fancy a trip to the lakes, you can drop off your equipment personally and then collect it when it’s complete or we can ship it back to you.

By Courier
We can arrange a courier collection of your equipment for an additional cost. We currently use UPS.
To make things easier, we can offer several collection options.

1. We can arrange a specific day for the courier to call and collect your equipment. Someone will need to be available all day at the collection address as we’re unable to arrange a time slot for collections.

2. Dropping off at a UPS Access Point. UPS use a network of local shops to deliver and collect parcels from and to. We can either post you a collection label or email you the label (you will need to print the label at home/work). Securely box up your equipment, affix the collection label to the outside of the box and take it to your preferred Access Point where you will be issued a receipt. UPS Access Points can be found here (link opens in a new window), simply enter you postcode to find your nearest one.

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Please note this is just an upgrade modification, it does not include the Arcam CD Player