The Pioneer A-70DA is a stereo integrated amplifier that boasts a timeless design, likely evoking a sense of nostalgia among many music enthusiasts. However, the images do not capture its true essence. Upon encountering the device in person, the initial focus shifts from its vintage aesthetic to the remarkable quality of the finish, both in the overall structure and in each individual component.
The design eliminates plastic handles and trims, showcasing a commitment to authenticity. The case features 1.8 mm aluminum side plates, while the front panel is crafted from a robust 3.5 mm milled aluminum plate. All control knobs are constructed from solid metal, and the volume control is impressively large, providing a tactile experience that enhances its usability. Adjacent to it are the tone control knobs, which have been overlooked by many manufacturers in recent years. However, it is important to acknowledge that even non-audiophiles often find themselves in need of direct adjustments for bass or treble. The tone control can be disabled, and in addition to the three standard knobs, there is a rarely seen tone compensation button and an attenuator to limit the volume range. This feature is particularly useful to prevent a child from inadvertently cranking the volume to its maximum, potentially damaging both the family’s hearing and their cherished speakers.
Examining the rear of the Pioneer A-70DA reveals two sets of stereo acoustic terminals, which will be appreciated by bi-wiring enthusiasts. These terminals are notably robust, accommodating larger gauge wires effectively. While there is no official information regarding the specifics of their gold plating, it is confirmed that all input connectors are indeed gold-plated. Among these connectors are digital inputs, including a USB Type B port. This indicates that, despite its traditional appearance, the device features a built-in DAC of considerable quality.
The DAC is based on the eight-channel ES9016 chip from ESS, which is part of the advanced Sabre32 Ultra DAC series. The designation “32” refers to its 32-bit internal architecture and the corresponding input resolution of the converter. It is worth mentioning that the current flagship Sabre Pro line was launched after the A-70DA, meaning the developers selected the best technology available at the time of its release.
The number of DAC channels suggests that the audio path utilizes a balanced topology throughout its various components, with the exception of the phono preamplifier inputs, which are compatible with both MM and MC cartridges. Regarding the topology, the device’s interior is segmented into three distinct sections by robust steel partitions. One section houses the preamplifier along with a dedicated linear power supply, the second section contains the power amplifier stages, and the third is reserved for the substantial power supply. Both transformers are encased in additional metal enclosures filled with a compound and are mounted on vibration-dampening supports. Furthermore, the entire internal framework is supported by a solid platform that is 4.6 mm thick. Consequently, the overall weight of the unit reaches 17 kg, making it quite substantial by contemporary hi-fi standards.
The A-70DA features a power amplifier that operates in class D, utilizing a proprietary Direct Energy circuit design. A significant component of this system is the Direct Power FET field-effect transistors, which are distinct from traditional MOSFETs primarily due to their packaging. In this design, the semiconductor crystal is directly mounted onto the contact pads of the printed circuit board, thereby eliminating the need for signal transmission through thin leads and unnecessary connection points. Additionally, the balanced preamplifier, integrated phono corrector, and output circuits of the built-in DAC are all finely tuned to optimize performance with the specific pulse amplification units.
We have before us a versatile, self-sufficient device that requires only a connection to speakers on one end and to virtually any audio source on the other. To provide a glimpse into its capabilities, I can mention that not only can a network player, such as the closely related Pioneer N-70AE, serve as a source, but also any laptop or even a smartphone, provided it supports the USB Audio Class 2 standard.
Pioneer A-70DA Specifications
- Output power 2 x 90 W (0.5% harmonics, 4 Ohm), 2 x 65 W (0.5% harmonics, 8 Ohm)
- Frequency range 5 Hz – 50 kHz
- Signal-to-noise ratio more than 101 dB (linear input), more than 89 dB (MM input), more than 74 dB (MM input)
- Harmonic distortion coefficient less than 0.02%
- Inputs MM / MC pickup, balanced XLR, 4 linear, direct input to power amplifier, optical, coaxial, USB, control system
- Outputs linear, to headphones, to 2 pairs of speakers
- channel separation 90 dB (linear input)
- DAC ESS Sabre, 8-channel, 32 bit / 384 kHz
- USB parameters PCM up to 32 bit / 384 kHz, DSD up to 11.2 MHz
- Tone control range +/- 10 dB (LF, HF)
- Additionally Direct mode
- Speaker impedance 4 – 16 Ohm
- Power consumption 74 W, Standby 0.2 W
- Dimensions (WxHxD) 435 x 141 x 361 mm
- Weight 17.2 kg
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