Overview

The Pioneer N-70AE is a network audio player equipped with dual ESS SABRE32 Ultra ES9016S DAC chips. Network playback supports up to PCM 192kHz/24bit and DSD 11.2MHz, while the USB-DAC function supports up to PCM 32bit/384kHz and DSD256. It features a three-compartment chassis separation structure for EMI mitigation. Released in 2017, new units are now hard to obtain, with most circulation on the used market [1][2].

Scientific Validity

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Comprehensive third-party measurement results are not confirmed; per policy, set the baseline at 0.5. Manufacturer-published specs confirm network playback up to PCM 192kHz/24bit and DSD 11.2MHz, and USB-DAC up to PCM 384kHz/32bit and DSD 11.2MHz [1][2]. This section will be updated when credible third-party measurements become available.

Technology Level

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The dual DAC configuration and three-compartment chassis separation design are technically sound. The ES9016S (datasheet DR 124dB, THD+N -110dB) was mid-tier at launch and lags current mainstream ES9038Q2M (DR 129dB, THD+N -120dB) [2]. USB-DAC support for 384kHz/32bit and DSD256 was advanced then, but is common now. There is limited proprietary breakthrough.

Cost-Performance

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The manufacturer price at launch was 1,253 USD (before tax) and new units are now scarce [1]. As an equivalent-or-better current product, the WiiM Ultra (396 USD) qualifies [3][4]. It offers network streaming, USB-DAC up to 384kHz/32bit, HDMI ARC, and touchscreen, and the brand’s higher model (WiiM Pro Plus) has independent measurements confirming transparent-level performance [5]. Calculation: 396 ÷ 1,253 = 0.316 → 0.3.

Reliability & Support

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Pioneer has a long track record. This model is discontinued and new units are unavailable. While support remains for existing products, long-term parts availability is unclear, warranting a mid-level score.

Rationality of Design Philosophy

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The combination of hi-res support and network streaming is rational. Yet the ES9016S was mid-tier at launch and is now dated. The necessity as a dedicated network player is diminished versus cheaper and higher-performing current options like WiiM Ultra or PC + DAC.

Advice

The Pioneer N-70AE was advanced at launch but has since lost technical and price advantages. For new purchases, we recommend current products with equal-or-better functions and measured performance, such as WiiM Ultra (396 USD). Existing owners can keep using it, but should check repair feasibility and parts availability in advance.

References

[1] AV Watch, Pioneer N-70AE announcement (specs/price), https://av.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/news/1064955.html, 2017-06-14 [2] ITmedia, Pioneer N-70AE feature article, https://www.itmedia.co.jp/lifestyle/articles/1706/14/news088.html, 2017-06-14 [3] WiiM Ultra product page (specifications), https://www.wiimhome.com/wiimultra/overview, 2024-2025 [4] Yodobashi Camera, WiiM Ultra product listing (396 USD), https://www.yodobashi.com/, accessed 2025-08-09 [5] Audio Science Review, WiiM Pro Plus Review and Measurements, https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/wiim-pro-plus-review-measurements-streamer.47020/, 2023-08-25

(2025.8.9)