pioneer.eu: Pioneer Europe unveils eight new stereo components, developed in its pursuit of masterful sound quality. The new components complete Pioneer’s new stereo line-up, after the December ’11 introduction of its N-50 and N-30 high-quality network audio players supporting Apple’s AirPlay and offering the ability to play music files in a variety of formats, including hi-res 192 kHz/24 bit audio, and from various sources —iPhone/iPad/iPod and Mac, as well as PC, NAS or USB. The new stereo components, all with elegant cosmetic designs and leading technologies, include the A-70, A-50, A-30, A-20 and A-10 amplifiers, and the PD-50, PD-30, PD-10 Super Audio CD players. The entire line-up is designed to achieve the sought-after ‘open sound’ and ultra-quick responsiveness that bring every detail to life.
“The new amplifiers and Super Audio CD players, along with the earlier released network audio players are designed to perform in perfect harmony creating true-to-the-original audio performances,” says Philippe Coppens, Technology and Product Information Manager at Pioneer Europe. “The top-of-the-line A-70 amplifier will be tuned according to exacting professional standards by the internationally respected AIR Studios in London. The AIR Studios quality seal is proof not only of the extraordinary engineering that has gone into these audio units, but also of the exceptionally high quality of their craftsmanship and carefully selected electronic components.”
The sonic benchmark
The A-70 and A-50 amplifiers integrate years of accumulated experience in designing audiophile products that offer the clearest expression of stereo. These refined components come equipped with the most advanced technology, including high efficiency power MOS FET (Class D) amplification optimised for pure sound reproduction.
In addition, the AIR Studios tuned A-70 amplifier features high-quality ESS 192 Khz / 32 bit SABRE32DACs, and offers users looking for best condition direct Mac or PC connectivity an integrated asynchronous USB DAC solution capable of handling 192 kHz / 32 bit sources. A variety of other audiophile components, such as twin black shielded transformers —for the power amp and pre-amp section— complete the A-70’s impressive feature set.
The Class AB based A-30, A-20 and A-10 are built using high performance large transformers and have a L/R symmetrical construction with direct energy design. The A-30 offers 70W + 70W, whereas both the A-20 and A-10 deliver a solid 50W + 50W. All amplifiers feature a MM Phono input which allows the user to plug in a turntable, with the A-70 adding MC support. The complete line-up of stereo components —aside from the A-10 amplifier and the PD-10 SACD player— is available in a high quality aluminium finish.
The gold standard of audio reproduction
The PD-50, PD-30 and PD-10 Super Audio CD Players bring uncompromising music reproduction, in line with Pioneer’s ‘Pure Audio’ philosophy focusing on quick response and open sound, a design direction inspired by the expertise of professional recording studios.
The PD-50 is fitted with twin transformers separating the analogue and digital power supply design and incorporates Pioneer’s Hi-bit DSP technology (32bit) to achieve true-to-the-original sound reproduction.
The PD-10 comes with a front USB connection for MP3 and WMA playback, with both the PD-50 and the PD-30 adding full support for iPhone, iPad and iPod. Users who want to take advantage of the state-of-the-art DAC design of the PD-50 can connect the digital output of available sources via the coaxial or optical DAC input.
Availability
The A-30 amplifier will be available as of May, followed by the A-20 and A-10 in June. The A-70 and A-50 will be available at authorised Pioneer retailers in September. The PD-30 and PD-10 Super Audio CD players will be available in July, followed by the PD-50 in September.