If Arcam set out to create a pairing that would be more than competitive in terms of both build-quality and performance, then they have hit the bull’s-eye – despite the congested market place. With their beguiling mix of transparency and musicality, the C31 and P38 are fine ambassadors for the prepower approach, and worthy figure heads for the FMJ stereo range. While there are numerous talented alternatives, at the units’ combined cost of £2,050, if you need the Arcams’ high feature count and longevity allied to a refined and musical sound, they will be hard to beat at the price.