The network streamer category continues to expand with new models from Cambridge Audio, NAD, Primare, and Denon in the first quarter of 2023.
Technics is the latest to introduce a new entry into this category with its SU-GX70 network streaming amplifier. Just connect to the internet and a good set of speakers (or headphones) and you are set to go.
The SU-GX70 In a Nutshell
The SU-GX70 combines streaming and network audio playback with a built-in two-channel amplifier.
The SU-GX70 incorporates the Google Chromecast platform which allows access to streaming services such as Spotify, TIDAL, Deezer, Qobuz, and Amazon Music. The SU-GX70 also supports internet radio and FM radio.
Tip: MQA is also supported
Wireless connectivity includes Wi-Fi, Airplay2, and Bluetooth.
For physical sources, there are 2 analog line inputs, and 3 digital inputs as well as USB-A and USB-B support.
Tip: You can also connect a turntable with a MM (moving magnet) cartridge through the dedicated phono input.
Another important connectivity option included on the SU-GX70 is HDMI-ARC. This allows easy integration of a TV into a home hi-fi system for better sound without the hassle of a multichannel system.
Additional Features
Digital Amplification: A two-channel digital amplifier with support from the Technics JENO Engine (Jitter Elimination and Noise-shaping Optimization) provides a smooth audio output.
Twin Power Supply Circuit System: This helps deliver a high signal-to-noise ratio for superb, detailed sound. The Clean Power Clock Generator technology, taken from Technics’ Reference Class components, enables an ultimately stable clock signal for high-precision digital signal processing.
Ideal Impulse Response through LAPC (Load Adaptive Phase Calibration): This feature consists of a speaker impedance optimization algorithm, using digital signal processing. LAPC generates a test signal that is sent to the speakers. The reproduction quality of the signal is analyzed by measuring the amplitude and phase behavior, and an optimization algorithm is derived from this. The algorithm flattens the amplitude and phase-frequency response to make the most of your speakers. This results in better focused, spacious, and defined sound.
Pure Amplification Mode: When this option is activated it shuts off the power supply to the network and HDMI circuits remove any noise from the device or antenna. This ensures music playback with even better clarity from directly connected analog sources.
Space Tune: This enables the adjustment of sound space according to the room environment and installation location to optimize performance. By using the Technics Audio Center app for iOS and Android or by selecting a setting from the four presets (Free, Wall, Corner, In a Shelf) the user can achieve the most suitable sound quality for a specific acoustic environment.
L/R Custom: This feature lets the user enter the setting independently for the left and right speakers when the speakers are set up in different installation conditions. This brings out the best sound reproduction in any installation condition.
Specifications
- Output Power (FTC Rated):
- 30W + 30W ( 1kHz, 1.0% THD, 8Ω, 20kHz with LPF)
- 60W + 60W ( 1kHz, T.H.D. 1.0%, 4Ω, 20kHz with LPF)
- Load Impedance: 4 to 16 ohms
- Frequency Response:
- Phono (MM): 20Hz – 20kHz ( RIAA deviation ±1dB, 4 ohms )
- Line: 20Hz – 40kHz ( -3dB, 4 ohms )
- Digital: 20Hz – 80kHz ( -3dB, ohms )
- Input Sensitivity/Input Impedance:
- Phono (MM): 2.0 mV / 47K ohms)
- Line: 200 mV / 23K ohms)
- Analogue Inputs:
- Line x 2
- Phono (MM) x1
- Digital Inputs:
- Digital Optical x2
- Digital Coaxial x1
- USB-A x1
- USB-B x1
- Analogue Output: Pre-Out x1
- Digital Output: HDMI-ARC
- Headphone Output: Stereo 6.3 mm (¼-inch)
- Digital Audio File Format Support: PCM/LPCM (up to 384 kHZ.32 bit), MP3, FLAC, AIFF, AAC, WAV, ALAC, and DSD (2.8 MHz, 5.6 MHz, 11.2 MHz)
- DSD control mode: ASIO Native mode, DoP mode
- USB Characteristics: USB 2.0 High-speed / USB Audio Class 2.0, Asynchronous mode
- Network Connectivity: Ethernet/LAN (100BASE-TX/10BASE-T) – WiFi Built-in
- Streaming Platform Support:
- Chromecast built-in:
- AirPlay 2
- Bluetooth® Codec Support: AAC, SBC
- MQA Decoder: Yes
- Radio Tuner: FM
- Power Supply: AC 120 V,60 Hz
- Power Consumption: 63W
- Included Accessories:
- AC Cord
- FM Indoor Antenna
- Remote Control with Batteries
- Owner’s Manual
- Dimensions (WHD): 16-15/16 x 3-55/64 x 14-31/64 inches
- Weight: Approx. 14.6 lbs
Availability and Pricing
The SU-GX70 comes in a minimalist design with a 7mm thick aluminum front panel in both silver and black. It will be available at authorized Technics retailers from July 2023 for $1,999.
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Al Camaro
May 9, 2023 at 9:26 pm
Are you kidding Technics !??$2000 for 30wpc with a 1% total harmonic distortion amp !!? That spec looks like a 1950’s amo spec. With $2000 I can purchase a still full of life vintage Technics receiver or amp with 4 times the power and use my lap top or pH to stream music and still have plenty money left for a great pair of speakers and a nice dinner.
Jon Poletti
July 4, 2023 at 2:43 pm
My thoughts exactly. Not Roon Ready either.