Copland CSA 70 Integrated Amplifier

Copland CSA 70 is a stereo integrated amplifier for a music system with analogue, digital and vinyl sources. It brings these sources together in one unit, with an MM phono input, four wired digital inputs and a headphone socket on the front panel. Its stated output power is 2 × 70 W into an 8 Ω load.

Amplifier design

The line-level preamplifier section uses solid-state components and contains no valves. This distinction matters if you are comparing amplifiers by circuit design: the CSA 70 is not a valve hybrid. Its stated minimum load impedance is 2 Ω, but that figure alone does not tell you how a particular pair of speakers will perform in your room. Consider the speakers’ sensitivity, your listening distance and the volume you want to reach as well. The power rating also has a specified load, so it should be read in that context rather than treated as a complete prediction of sound or speaker matching.

Analogue sources and vinyl

Three RCA line inputs give separate connections for sources such as a CD player, a network player and another analogue device. You can leave each one connected and select the appropriate amplifier input when you want to listen, instead of moving cables between sources during everyday use.

The built-in MM phono stage is intended for a turntable fitted with a moving-magnet cartridge. Connect that turntable to the phono input. If a turntable or another device already has its own phono stage, connect its output to a line input instead; feeding an already corrected signal into the phono input would apply phono correction twice. The phono input’s impedance, capacitance and sensitivity appear in the specifications so you can compare them with the cartridge’s requirements. An MM label is a useful starting point, but the cartridge maker’s recommended loading gives you a more specific basis for checking the match.

Digital inputs

For wired digital sources, the CSA 70 provides one coaxial S/PDIF input, two optical S/PDIF inputs and one USB input. Choose a connection that corresponds to the output on your source. The two optical sockets let you keep two devices with optical outputs connected at the same time, while the coaxial socket remains available for another digital source. Check the outputs on the equipment you plan to use when deciding how to allocate the inputs.

aptX HD Bluetooth is listed as optional equipment. Wireless listening therefore depends on the configuration of the particular amplifier you choose. The four wired digital inputs are separate from that option and should not be counted as evidence that Bluetooth is fitted.

Outputs and system connections

The RCA line output and the variable-level RCA preamplifier output serve different purposes. The variable preamplifier output is provided for sending a signal to an additional power amplifier when you want the CSA 70 to control its level. Before connecting another component, decide whether the signal it receives needs to follow the CSA 70’s volume setting, then choose the appropriate output.

A 6.3 mm headphone socket on the front makes it possible to plug in headphones without reaching behind the amplifier. The headphone amplifier’s output impedance is 40 Ω. That figure is relevant when choosing headphones because it can affect frequency balance with low-impedance models. The specifications also distinguish the headphone amplifier’s figures from those of the main amplifier, so read the relevant set for the way you intend to listen.

Space on the shelf

The cabinet measures 435 mm wide, 135 mm high and 370 mm deep, so allow at least that much space for the unit itself. Leave additional room behind it for the RCA, digital and speaker cable connections. This helps prevent the cables from pressing against the back of the shelf and makes the connections easier to reach.

The stated maximum power consumption is 400 W; it is not a figure for constant consumption while listening to music. The listed 13 kg is the shipping weight, rather than a precise weight for the amplifier cabinet alone. Keep those distinctions in mind when planning its placement and interpreting the specifications.

Technical specifications

FAQ

Can I connect a turntable with an MC cartridge directly?

The phono input is designed for an MM cartridge. For a turntable with an MC cartridge, use a separate phono stage suited to that cartridge and connect the phono stage’s output to one of the line inputs.

Which input should I use for a TV?

If your TV has an optical digital output, use one of the optical inputs. Check the TV’s audio output settings so that the signal it sends is suitable for the connected amplifier.

Can I use the amplifier with a home cinema receiver?

If the receiver has analogue preamplifier outputs for its front channels, you can connect them to an RCA line input. You will then need to coordinate the volume levels of both devices when setting up the home cinema system.

Can I connect an additional power amplifier?

Yes. The variable-level preamplifier output is intended for this connection. It lets you use the CSA 70 to control the level of the signal sent to the additional power amplifier.

Does every unit include Bluetooth?

No. Bluetooth is optional equipment, so choose a configuration that includes it if you plan to listen wirelessly.

How can I check compatibility with an MM cartridge?

Compare the cartridge manufacturer’s recommended load and capacitance with the phono input’s 47 kΩ impedance and 200 pF capacitance. The MM designation alone is not enough to assess a particular cartridge.