Pioneer PD-70AE SACD player also works as DAC
Pioneer has announced the release of the PD-70AE. This is their new flagship SACD player and Digital to Analogue converter (DAC).
The PD-70AE features original technologies for pickup control and ‘Quiet Drive’.
Additionally, the player incorporates dual ESS DAC chips, XLR terminals with fully balanced circuitry, and discrete analogue/digital power supplies.
The PD-70AE will bring out the best from your favourite SACDs or CDs.
PD-70AE audio features
Fully balanced circuitry
From digital to analogue conversion to analogue signal output, the whole analogue process is routed via a full-balanced circuit featuring independent left and right channels.
When connected to an amplifier with a balanced (XLR) input, the common impedance effects encountered when transmitting an analogue signal can be minimised. This results in greatly enhanced channel separation.
Of course, a switchable unbalanced RCA output is also provided.
Works as a standalone DAC
In addition to being a SACD/CD player, the PD-70AE also functions as a standalone digital/analogue converter (DAC) for other digital audio sources.
The carefully designed build quality brings out the full potential of the high-performance dual ESS DAC chips used.
Discrete analogue/digital power supplies
The PD-70AE is designed with the shortest and the most optimal power supply stages, as well as audio signal path, to provide pure and rich sound reproduction.
This is why the digital and analogue circuits each have their own discrete power supplies.
Custom electrolytic capacitors
Custom electrolytic capacitors for high-grade audio have been selected through repeated sound trials. These were performed while listening to SACD and CD sound.
The capacitors bring out the best from audio discs, letting you enjoy a powerful and dynamic sound.
High-grade balanced output and machined terminals
Specially selected analogue balanced output (XLR) terminals were used. These were chosen to maximise the quality of signal transmission.
Machined and gold-plated RCA terminals are used for the analogue unbalanced output.
Lock range adjust function
This function allows you to make fine adjustments in the DAC’s lock range to reduce jitter in the input signal.
Adjustments can be made in six steps, with the default set at Range 6. However, Ranges 1 to 3 are intended for fine-tuning by expert users.
3-mode digital filter
The digital filter lets you fine-tune the sonic characteristics of the DAC. ‘Slow’ for soft and warm, ‘Sharp’ for solid and tight, and finally, ‘Short’ for a quick and forward sound.
Construction features
Rigid under-base construction
The PD-70AE uses Pioneer’s trademark Rigid Under Base. This has been designed to eliminate external vibrations and so providing a stable bass reproduction.
Shielded CD drive case with anti-vibration paint
The CD drive is housed in a shielded case with a honeycomb-imprinted top cover. It also features anti-vibration paint.
Furthermore, the drive base is securely fixed to an aluminium-alloy frame and placed within a damped, floating structure.
This all helps to minimise vibration, both within and outside the drive.
Aluminium disc tray
The disc tray is made of die-cast aluminium, which enhances the tray’s rigidity and helps to further stabilise the drive when in use.
Anti-standing wave insulator feet
The Anti-Standing Wave Insulator Feet have been developed through repeated listening tests.
The feet feature a special physical form – with no parallel sides inside – to prevent cavity resonance.
This makes the player’s soundstage, tonal quality and scale clearer, while also enhancing transient audio response.
Price and availability
The PD-70AE will cost £1999.99 and be available in silver next month, November.
