Owners of Pioneer and Onkyo products will soon be able to enjoy native support for Amazon Music as well as MQA decoding. Additionally, the companies have integrated eARC on selected A/V receivers. The new features all come by way of the latest firmware update available over your Ethernet connection.

Amazon Music

Prime Music is an on-demand music streaming service available free of charge for Amazon Prime subscribers. The service features a library of about two million tracks. Amazon Music Unlimited, meanwhile, offers a discounted monthly subscription to Amazon Prime members and has tens of millions of songs.

You will be able to access Amazon Music via selected stereo receivers, network audio players, and mini-system receivers. Also, thanks to the firmware update, certain soundbars, AV systems and lifestyle audio products will get the new feature too.

MQA

MQA is a way of providing high-quality audio in a backward compatible format. All MQA encoded music is from the most trusted source; the studio master, providing the most accurate form of the artist’s music. MQA-encoded music is available from Onkyo Music in the UK and Germany.

The firmware update will enable MQA decoding on Pioneer’s N-70AE and N-50AE family of Network Audio Players. Additionally, the NC-50 and NC-50 DAB network audio players with a CD player and stereo amplifier built-in will also get the update.

eARC

ARC (Audio Return Channel) technology currently supports the transmission of audio signals including LPCM, Dolby Digital, and DTS formats from ARC-compatible TVs or devices connected to the TV.

Now, with the introduction of eARC, systems can transmit HD audio and multi-channel PCM signals from eARC-compatible TVs. Specifically, eARC can transmit object-based audio formats such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X as well as Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio lossless audio formats.

The rollout will initially activate eARC on the 9.2-ch Onkyo TX-RZ830 and Integra DRX-5.2 network A/V receivers. Also, thePioneer 7.2-ch SC-LX502 and 9.2-ch VSX-LX503 A/V receivers.

The post Onkyo and Pioneer firmware update adds MQA, Amazon Music and more appeared first on GadgetyNews.

Just as Samsung announced recently, Pioneer and Onkyo are supporting the lossless version of the Deezer streaming service. Deezer is one of the most popular subscription-based streaming music services. Users have access to an impressive library of more than 53 million songs.

Owners of both Pioneer and Onkyo hardware have had access to Deezer. However, thanks to the upcoming firmware update, will soon be able to enjoy Deezer HiFi. Subscribing to this top tier enables streaming of CD quality, lossless (16bit / 44.1kHz) FLAC music files. Deezer currently offers 36 million tracks at this quality.

Deezer HiFi also offers “Flow” – a personalised soundtrack based on your listening tastes. Flow doesn’t just include known favourites, but also introduces selected new songs, helping the listener to discover exciting new artists.

Onkyo Deezer HiFi

Products that will support Deezer HiFi via a forthcoming firmware update include the following:

AV receivers

TX-RZ3100, TX-RZ1100, TX-RZ830, TX-RZ820, TX-RZ810, TX-RZ730, TX-RZ720, TX-RZ710, TX-NR686, TX-NR676E, TX-NR656, TX-NR575E, TX-NR474, HT-S9800THX, PR-RZ5100.

2 channel stereo receivers

TX-8270, TX-8250, LS5200, TX-L20D. 

Network CD receivers

CR-N775.

Network players

NS-6170, NS-6130, NCP-302.

Soundbars

Dolby Atmos Soundbar LS7200.

Network Stereo Receivers

R-N855.

Pioneer Deezer HiFi

The Pioneer products that will have the update available include the following:

AV receivers

SC-LX901, SC-LX801, SC-LX701, SC-LX501, SC-LX502, VSX-LX503, VSX-LX303, VSX-LX302, VSX-1131, VSX-933, VSX-932, VSX-832, VSX-831, VSX-S520D, VSX-S520.

2 channel stereo receivers

SX-N30AE and SX-S30DAB.

Network players

N-70AE, N-50AE, N-30AE, NC-50DAB.

Network CD receivers

XC-HM86D, X-HM86D, X-HM76D, X-HM76.

Network music systems

FS-W50 and FS-W40.

Wireless streaming speakers

MRX-5 and MRX-3.

The post Pioneer and Onkyo supporting Deezer HiFi appeared first on GadgetyNews.

Pioneer and Onkyo Europe GmbH is happy to announce that it has joined the ‘Works with Sonos’ programme.

The ‘Works with Sonos’ programme is a certification process for products that can connect with the Sonos Home Sound System seamlessly.

The feature will allow selected Pioneer and Onkyo products (listed below) to integrate with a Sonos Home Sound System on the same Wi-Fi network. This enables you basic control of your hi-fi product via the Sonos app.

Works with Sonos

Naturally, for this to work, the audio output from the Onkyo/Pioneer components will need to be connected to a Sonos Connect Wireless Music System unit.

When set up, a user will be able to play music via the Sonos app and the Pioneer or Onkyo component will…

1. Automatically wake up
2. Automatically switch to the right input connection
3. Allow the user to select the volume level via the Sonos app
4. Play the chosen music

Firmware

A firmware upgrade will be required to add the ‘Works with Sonos’ functionality – instructions on how to do so can be found on the companies’ websites: www.pioneer-audiovisual.eu and www.eu.onkyo.com

Compatible products

The full list of ‘Works with Sonos’ compatible products at launch are as follows :-

Pioneer

• VSX-933
• VSX-LX303
• VSX-LX503
• SX-N30AE
• SC-LX701
• SC-LX801
• SC-LX901

Onkyo

• TX-NR686
• TX-RZ730
• TX-RZ830
• TX-8270
• TX-8250
• TX-RZ1100
• TX-RZ3100
• PR-RZ5100

The post Pioneer and Onkyo now Works with Sonos appeared first on GadgetyNews.

Onkyo promises your home cinema set-up will be able to challenge your local commercial cinema thanks to their new Onkyo TX-RZ730 and TX-RZ830 9.2-channel A/V receivers with 175 W/Ch and 180 W/Ch respectively (measured at 6ohms, 1kHz, 1% THD, 1-ch driven).

These THX-Certified Select A/V receivers deliver cinema-reference sound in rooms of up to 57m3 (2,000 ft3). We are told that this has been proven by 2,000 bench-tests in 75 categories, covering 14,000 data points at THX Labs.

Onkyo TX-RZ730 and TX-RZ830

Both of the new Onkyo receivers are equipped with 11.2-multichannel pre-outs and processing. This means you can enjoye Dolby Atmos and DTS:X soundtrack reproduction through speaker layouts of up to 7.2.4-ch (with an outboard stereo amp).

Furthermore, you can optionally power digital and analogue audio through speakers in Zone 2 and Zone 3 with a 5.2-ch speaker layout in the media room. Alternatively, you can enjoy object-based audio through a 5.2.2-channel layout with powered audio distribution in Zone 2. Both receivers include Zone 2 and Zone 3 pre-/line-outs to share audio to hi-fi systems in other rooms.

Thanks to the Dynamic Audio Amplification’s custom-fabricated, high-output transformer and large customised block capacitors, they also boast class-beating current flow. This is the secret to instantaneous dynamic response and precise control.

Additionally, the patented VLSC (Vector Linear Shaping Circuitry) on Front L/R channels eliminates digital noise for source-faithful audio playback.

With wide 5Hz-100kHz frequency response and deep reserves of high-current power, both receivers produce the earth-shaking bass and crystal clarity that’s essential for thrilling audio entertainment.

AccuEQ

The TX-RZ730 and TX-RZ830 feature AccuEQ Advance room acoustic calibration technology.

As well as setting parameters such as speaker distance, SP level, and crossover, AccuEQ Advance uses multi-point measurement to eliminate standing waves from the listening space.

The technology also detects and compensates for subtle background noise. AccuReflex technology aligns the phase of directional and non-directional sounds for comfortable playback through Dolby Atmos-enabled speaker systems.

Dolby and DTS

Both receivers feature Dolby Surround and DTS Neural:X upmixing solutions. These cross-compatible technologies re-map legacy soundtracks commonly encoded on DVD, Blu-ray Disc, and streaming video. This leads to you to being presented with a highly realistic listening environment.

Multi-room audio

Both receivers enjoys Chromecast built-in. This enables you to stream any music from Chromecast-enabled apps for iPhone, iPad, Android phone or tablet, Mac and Windows PC, or Chromebook. Playback can be controlled by voice with a smart speaker featuring the Google Assistant, such as Google Home.

DTS Play-Fi technology enables high-quality music playback from online services, media servers, and mobile devices to any number of compatible products using Onkyo Music Control App. DTS Play-Fi technology can synchronise music in every room and is easily used by any family member.

Proprietary FlareConnect technology shares audio from network sources and external audio inputs between compatible components. Enjoy effortless multi-room playback of LP records, CDs, network music services, and more with supported components and speaker systems.

Amazon Music can be accessed via the Onkyo Music Control App. You can get TIDAL, TuneIn, Deezer, and Spotify through Onkyo Controller.

Onkyo Controller presents local and network audio for streaming together with remote-control functionality.

The receivers also include Bluetooth wireless technology for streaming virtually any audio from apps running on PC and mobile. Finally, AirPlay network audio streaming technology is built in.

Analogue and digital audio

Analogue enthusiasts are treated to a discrete, low-noise phono pre-amplifier for turntable connection.

The TX-RZ830 adds Pure Audio mode to minimise unwanted interference, with both supporting Hi-Res Audio via network and USB storage devices.

The TX-RZ730 plays DSD5.6 MHz/2.8 MHz while the TX-RZ830 supports direct playback of DSD11.2 MHz files. Both support 24-bit audio up to 192kHz in FLAC, WAV (RIFF), AIFF, and ALAC formats.

On the video side, the TX-RZ730 and TX-RZ830 are ready for the latest premium content with HDMI pass-through of HDR10, HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma), and Dolby Vision formats. Additionally, 4K/60p, BT.2020, 4:4:4, 24-bit, and HDCP 2.2-protected video are also catered for.

Six rear HDMI inputs, Main Out, Zone 2 Out (Sub Out on the TX-RZ730), and a front HDMI input are included on both models.

As well as ample digital and analogue audio inputs, plus assignable component and composite video inputs for legacy devices, the receivers have a 12v trigger output and IR input.

Both support IP control and RS232.

Price and availability

Both will be available in June. Prices will be:

• Onkyo TX-RZ730 – £899.99
• Onkyo TX-RZ830 – £1099.99

The post Onkyo TX-RZ730 / TX-RZ830 9.2 wireless multi-room A/V receivers appeared first on GadgetyNews.

As well as the interesting neck speaker, Onkyo was showing their GRANBEAT Hi-Res Tablet. I have so much want for this device.

There are some nifty tablets out on the market right now. The trouble is, deciding which one to go for. Usually, this means you have to prioritise. So, are you looking for something with great audio? Stereo speakers would be kind of cool, right? Or, is movie content your main thing? In that case, at least HD would be at the top of your list.

Onkyo reckons you shouldn’t have to compromise.

Onkyo GRANBEAT tablet

Let’s face it, most streaming services now offer at least HD. The better ones now have a decent array of 4K titles to choose from too.

Well, in order to do proper justice to the ever higher video quality available from today’s cutting-edge streaming video services, Onkyo has equipped their tablet debut with a 12.5-inch Ultra HD 4K display. This thing is literally breathtaking. I stood in front of it speechless until I was ushered away to allow some, I assume to be, important Japanese gentlemen to have the same reaction. Tis their less youthful hands you can see in some of the shots. Naturally, the sexier digits belong to me

The tablet can sit in its own charging dock if you’re binge watching a Netflix boxset.

It’s not just the visuals that impresses either.

Audio

The GRANBEAT tablet is apparently also the world’s first to be equipped with DTS:X Premium 1.0. This means that you get a superior standard of multi-channel audio reproduction. Well, it would be a little bit daft to have that amazing video quality and naff audio, wouldn’t it?

The audio is pushed through 4 built-in Onkyo Dual Mold Diaphragm (ODMD) speakers. These are naturally fed by dedicated DAC and amp circuitry for Hi-Res audio. Furthermore, the GRANBEAT tablet also fully supports DTS Play-Fi.

Build

Also, this tablet has outstanding build-quality.

Furthermore, there are some rather nice design touches too; for instance the rotary volume dial on the left-hand side.

As you turn the dial there are diagonal vector lines displayed on-screen to show what level of awesomeness, I mean volume, the tablet is at.

You also get two 3.5mmm headphone jacks. One is for standard stereo ear-pleasers whereas the other is for balanced cans. Of course, these are gold.

Price and availability

I couldn’t get a hint about pricing, aside from “not cheap”, which I already assumed. It was intimated that the UK might not see this first outing of the tablet. I gather that the Japanese market is the initial focus for this device, and I totally get that. However, I want one!

The post Onkyo GRANBEAT tablet: Hi-res everything! MWC 2018 appeared first on GadgetyNews.

Taking time out from mobile handsets for a moment, I dropped in on Onkyo to check out a couple of their new things, one being the VC-NX01 “neck speaker”.

Yes, there are a lot of phones to see at Mobile World Congress, however, this year was the first time Onkyo has rocked up to the Barcelona tech fest.

One of the devices (there were a few interesting ones) on display was the Onkyo VC-NX01 wearable speaker.

Onkyo VC-NX01

Although not ready for retail, It is always worth seeing where brands are heading.

Onkyo had this prototype device on their stand I thought it interesting enough to learn a little more about it.

The device is designed to be worn around the neck, and integrates several leading technologies. Furthermore,  it promises to be a truly hands-free device that will be the perfect method of accessing on-the-go ‘concierge’ services.

One of the most impressive features of this device is that it automatically activates when placed around your neck.

Also, it instantly compensates for ambient sounds (such as passing traffic) while fully supporting the ‘Onkyo AI’ functionality.

Check out the Onkyo GRANBEAT 4K UHD and Hi-res audio tablet

Onkyo AI

Onkyo AI is a proprietary voice-enabled AI system. It has been created from the development and integration of several currently available AI-related technologies.

Besides answering questions and playing music – core abilities for conventional smart speakers – the Onkyo AI system also offers several other capabilities:-

Customisability

This proprietary AI can be customised with a host of useful features to meet the diverse needs of consumers.

Service/App coordination

Onkyo’s AI considers the time, geographic location and user characteristics before deciding which of various available services it should offer. Additionally, it does this in conjunction with the recommended application tailored to the situation.

Voice options

‘Onkyo Voice’ allows the user to select their own preferred assistant’s voice.

Price and availability

Everything is TBC at the moment. I am looking forward to seeing if this makes it through to production. If it does, expect a full review!

The post Onkyo VC-NX01 neck speaker – MWC 2018 appeared first on GadgetyNews.

The Audio & AV Show 2017, being held at The ICC and Hyatt Regency Hotel, opens its doors at 10am tomorrow, Saturday September 16th.

This weekend will see the Audio & AV Show hitting Birmingham. The event is an opportunity to experience the world’s finest audio and visual products – at all budgets – in one place.

Exhibitors will be on-hand to answer questions, as well as demonstrate the latest gear from brands, including: Bose; Bowers and Wilkins; Epson; KEF; LG; Onkyo; Panasonic; Pioneer; Pro-Ject; Samsung; Technics; and Sonos.

This city centre technology show means that Birmingham will sound better than ever. 

10 reasons to visit The Audio & AV Show 2017

1. Exclusive product launches, including global launch of Metaxas & Sins £90,000 SIRENS loudspeakers (above), plus gear for every taste and budget.
2. Try the latest ‘smart’ speakers, including – models which work with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
3. Get back into vinyl. Invaluable advice from makers, including Pro-Ject and Technics, plus vinyl for sale.
4. Huge tellies! Get up close and personal with Panasonic’s 65”, £6,000, Ultra HD 4K TV.
5. Plan your home cinema. Talk with projector maker Epson, and experience KEF’s Dolby Atmos demo.
6. Stormtrooper photo ops. Guest appearances from Star Wars characters (UK Garrison of 501st Legion).
7. Hear MQA, the latest hi-res audio format, created in Britain and being adopted throughout the world.
8. Save money. Under 16’s are free when accompanied by a full-paying adult.
9. Save more money. Virgin Trains offers 25% off travel – check here for details.
10. Save even more money. Show discounts on products, plus chances to win some very cool gear.

Where and when

The Audio & AV Show can be discovered at Hyatt Regency & The ICC.

It is open on Saturday September 16th 10.00am – 5.00pm, and Sunday September 17th 10:00am – 4:00pm.

How much

Prices from £15 at theticketfactory.com

Door Prices: 1 Day: £18.00 / 2 Days: £30.00

The post Audio & AV Show – a Midlands must see appeared first on GadgetyNews.

Onkyo has announced their new Smart Speaker P3 (VC-PX30). This “lifestyle concierge speaker” packs Amazon Alexa.

The Smart Speaker P3 not only produces music with immersive hi-fi sound, it also provides information, entertainment, and the ability to control selected smart devices by voice thanks to Alexa integration.

You will, no doubt, already be aware of what Alexa can do. IF you’re not, Alexa can answer questions and deliver information. I use it to read the news for outlets I have chosen, get tube and weather reports as well as contoling smart plugs and lights.

Smart Speaker P3

Onkyo’s Smart Speaker P3 is amongst the first smart speakers to add support for DTS Play-Fi technology via the free companion Onkyo Music Control App.

DTS Play-Fi allows high-quality music transmission from connected services such as Amazon Music, TIDAL, Deezer, and TuneIn, as well as connected media servers and the mobile device library, to any number of compatible products.

Music selection is also easy thanks to the Onkyo Music Control App.

When compatible Play-Fi products are grouped using the app, Smart Speaker P3 plays music to the group simultaneously.

Each member of the family can also use their smartphone or tablet to listen to music in their own room or groups of rooms.

Furthermore, users can control the DTS Play-Fi system using the Apple Watch or Android Wear. For more information on DTS Play-Fi, visit www.play-fi.com.

Spec

The Smart Speaker P3 features dual full-range drivers, dual passive bass radiators, and efficient DSP switching amplification. This should all add-up to producing richness and body to voice and music.

An auxiliary input is included to enable media player, phone, and tablet connection to expand available sources of entertainment.

Finally, the line output can revitalise a legacy stereo system by adding voice-controlled audio to the room.

Price and availability

The Onkyo Smart Speaker P3 will be available in October. Pricing yet to be confirmed.

For more information head on over to http://www.uk.onkyo.com/en/

The post Onkyo Smart Speaker P3 launched with Alexa skills – IFA 2017 appeared first on GadgetyNews.

Onkyo continues to bring excellent hi-fi performance to their compact systems. They have announced three new package systems – the flagship CS-N775D Multi-room Receiver System, CS-N575D Multi-room Hi-Fi CD System, and CS-375D CD Receiver System.

Each one of the new systems blends component-grade musicality with effortless operation. Best of all, this opens the door to people of all ages, especially those less familiar with network audio.

Two network models support Chromecast built-in, DTS Play-Fi, proprietary multi-room distribution for network and analogue audio. The CS-N775D adds AirPlay wireless audio streaming platform. Spotify, TIDAL, Deezer, and TuneIn are integrated together with mobile music and audio on networked media server via the Onkyo Controller app for iPad, iPhone, and Android devices.

The receivers also showcase a new JOG dial and advanced display technology. These will no doubt help everyone find and play music in seconds.

The CS-N775D and CS-N575D feature information-rich LCDs providing visual reference when navigating content. Operation is demystified for listeners that prefer intuitive front-panel control.

CS-N775D Multi-room Receiver System

Central to the CR-N775D concept was development of patented a 3-state Bitstream switching amplification. Onkyo says that this achieves class-beating frequency response, flat linearity, and analogue-like fluency with ultra-wide-bandwidth resolution.

Where conventional switching amplifiers use only two digits (“on” or “off”) to reproduce the sound wave, 3-state Bitstream adds a third digit or “neutral” position. This is to smoothly shape a waveform similar to that produced by an analogue amplifier.

High power elicits peak performance from low-impedance speakers, distortion levels vanishing as sound-pressure grows to fill the room with vibrant music. The amplifier excels with quality sources decoded by an AK4490 768 kHz/32-bit DAC from AKM.

With 40W + 40W (4 Ohms, 1 kHz, 10%, 2-channels driven, IEC), the CR-N775D is paired with D-165 2-Way Bass Reflex Speakers. These are fitted with Onkyo’s premium 130mm N-OMF woofer and 30mm ring-radiator tweeter in an MDF enclosure with thick baffle.

Users can stream any music from Chromecast-enabled apps to the CS-N775D and any other supported speakers with Chromecast built-in.

DTS Play-Fi

DTS Play-Fi technology, meanwhile, allows streaming from online services, media server, or device library over 5 GHz/2.4 GHz Wi-Fi via the Onkyo Music Control App.

Furthermore, this tech also connects systems for synchronised music in every room, and can also stream different music to different rooms. Users can easily structure a comprehensive ecosystem that satisfies virtually any need.

Apps

Onkyo also includes proprietary multi-room network and analogue audio distribution baked into the Onkyo Controller app. Mirror audio from the CS-N775D in other rooms or configure speakers for grouped playback.

AirPlay is also included to share audio from supported applications, such as iTunes, from mobile devices and PC over Wi-Fi. There is, of course, Bluetooth which offers a versatile wireless connection to almost any device.

Music servers

In another first for Onkyo, portable HDDs can function as a music server for the CS-N775D when connected to a USB input.

Listeners can also download music to PC and copy the files to the HDD via the home network. File playback includes 192 kHz/24-bit FLAC, ALAC, and WAV as well as Direct DSD 11.2 MHz*6, DSD 5.6/2.8 MHz, and compressed audio formats.

More

Further entertainment is served via FM/RDS and DAB+ tuners, front-loading CD player, 192 kHz/24-bit-capable co-axial and optical digital audio inputs, and line-level input.

IR input/output and subwoofer pre-out join gold-plated speaker posts on the rear panel.

CS-N575D Multi-room Hi-Fi CD System

The CR-N575D receiver generates 20W + 20W (6 Ohms, 1 kHz, 10%, 2-channels driven, IEC) for enthusiastic hi-fi sound.

Original switching amplification features Optimum Audio Control DSP tuning, which integrates amp and loudspeaker characteristics for best performance. The efficient switching technology delivers high power for increased speaker sound-pressure and a wider sound-field.

With processing and amplification performed in the digital domain, accurate detail resolution is possible across a wide frequency bandwidth. This produces rich, nuanced vocals, buoyant bass, and unstrained articulation of high frequencies.

Each supplied D-075 2-Way Speaker includes a 130mm pressed pulp-fibre woofer and 25mm soft-dome tweeter in a thick MDF baffle. Vibrant stereo sound is projected from a compact footprint.

The receiver features Chromecast built-in, DTS Play-Fi, Onkyo multi-room audio distribution. You also get the same on-demand music services as the flagship model with support for Onkyo Controller, Bluetooth streaming, FM/DAB+ tuners, and LCD with JOG dial.

The CS-N575D supports HDD playback via USB input and full support for Hi-Res Audio including Direct DSD 11.2 MHz.

Connectivity includes USB inputs, 96 kHz/24-bit coaxial/optical digital inputs, line-level input/output, IR input, subwoofer pre-out, and headphone jack.

CS-375D CD Receiver System

The CS-375D carries the same premium switching amplification with Optimum Audio Control as the CR-N575D receiver. The system serves magnificent sound with natural verve. Onkyo boasts that it beats class rivals purely on this alone.

All this is packaged in a system that offers great value.

You also get the JOG dial for easy operation, as well as coaxial digital and line-level inputs to route TV sound through the system or connect a media player for easy network audio. FM/RDS and DAB+ tuners add further value.

Bluetooth technology assures quick and stable wireless connection, the system powering up when detecting an incoming stream from an audio application.

Furthermore, it offers USB audio from flash-memory devices, and the CD player reads CD-R/CD-RW and well as MP3-encoded discs.

Additionally, the same high-quality D-075 speaker system as the CS-N575D completes a package that’s pitched at those seeking the best-sounding compact system on a modest budget.

Round-up

Finally, to round-up, all three systems encourage families to make music a part of everyday life. Offering separates-level performance in unobtrusive dimensions, and cleverly integrating app-based audio and sharing it around the home. The new CS Series outshines in every respect.

Prices and availability

All models available in September, in either black or silver.

• CS-N775D Multi-room Receiver System – £469.99
• CS-N575D Multi-room Hi-Fi CD System – £399.99
• CS-375D CD Receiver System – £269.99

The post Onkyo announces three new CS compact Hi-Fi systems appeared first on GadgetyNews.

Pioneer have announced two audiophile-level network audio players, the N-70AE and N-50AE.

These new networked audio players from Pioneer & Onkyo GmbH are packing a feature set expected by audiophiles.

Both devices include the high-performance SABRE32 Ultra32 DAC, twin transformers, a USB-DAC supporting 2.8/5.6/11.2 MHz DSD, and plug-and-play external HDD/USB-memory playback via USB input.

Twin DACs

The class-topping N-70AE features dual SABRE Ultra32 DACs and a three-chamber shielded chassis. This eliminates electrical and magnetic interference. The design also improves structural rigidity with beams that separate blocks and side panels.

A rigid under-base suppresses vibration.

The products feature twin transformers in separate shielded cases that work to eliminate flux-influence for both analogue and digital blocks.

High-grade parts are used throughout. These include custom capacitors for the power supplies, while the N-70AE adds machined RCA terminals.

Streaming

Both the N-70AE and N-50AE offer Chromecast built-in and Spotify Connect. So you can stream music from supported apps to the player with album covers displayed on its 3.5-inch LCD.

Music via Chromecast built-in, TIDAL, and Deezer is easily accessed using system remote or Pioneer Remote App.

Both models offer Wi-Fi, supporting 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz frequency bandwidths, to guarantee a stable wireless connection while setting up.

Stored

In addition, users can play music stored on portable hard disks. Simply connect a compatible plug-and-play HDD to the USB input located on the rear of both players.

The network audio players also offer music server functionalities.

Connected HDDs can be read from and written to with a PC connected to the same local network, making it easy to copy new music from computer to hi-fi system.

High-Resolution audio

The N-70AE and N-50AE support Hi-Res Audio in a variety of file formats and containers.

DSD playback up to 11.2 MHz and PCM encoded in FLAC/WAV/AIFF/Apple Lossless are all supported (N-70AE: 384 kHz/24-bit, N-50AE:192 kHz/24-bit).

Price and availability

The Pioneer N-70AE is priced at £1099.99, and the N-50AE at £799.99.

Both will be available in July.

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