The latest integrated amplifier from Pioneer created under the original Direct Energy concept incorporates the newly developed Direct Energy Design, pursuing a high S/N ratio to create an overwhelming and life-like sound field.
With features including isolated power supply, custom-made large capacitors, Direct Function, Power Amp Direct Mode, aluminum volume knob/front panel, and phono MM input, you can enjoy crisp, clear sound just as intended by the artists.
Pioneer’s Direct Energy Design is based on the Direct Energy Concept—lossless transfer of energy from the amplifier to the speakers. Inheriting this philosophy, the latest integrated amplifiers feature optimized power supply/output circuit blocks, as well as parts layout. The result is excellent signal transfer and a high S/N ratio.
Additionally, the A-40AE adopts the newly developed Direct Energy Construction, which supplies power to the substrate by layering a separate substrate for the shortest possible power supply path via wire. This is because wires have inductance components and are likely to cause noise. With this significant revision, signal loss and noise can be further reduced to deliver audio with a wide sound field and clear sound image
The windings for the power amplifier, pre-amplifier, and controls are each separated inside the power transformer to prevent mutual noise interference.
The main capacitor, which determines an amplifier’s audio quality, was developed in collaboration with ELNA. The Pioneer logo on the sleeve shows that it is an exclusive pure audio capacitor.
The A-40AE features Direct Function, which bypasses other circuits except for the volume to offer a pure listening experience suitable for musical content. The function is not just a simple switching but is finely tuned to enhance musicality.
With the power amp direct terminal, you can connect an external pre-amplifier, and use the component as a power amplifier in a multichannel setup.
The Anti-Standing Wave Insulator features a special form with no parallel sides inside to prevent cavity resonance. This makes the sound localization, tone, and scale clearer, while also contributing to seamless connection between the channels and improved response to quick sound.
The speaker terminals use non-magnetic material, which is less susceptible to external noise and transmits signals to the speakers at high purity. The A-40AE is equipped with two sets of speaker outputs (A, B) that can be used individually or in parallel, as well as transparent high-grade speaker terminals for a reliable connection.
The A-40AE is equipped with a phono input (MM) terminal, letting you connect a turntable for enjoying a quality audio performance from vinyl records.
The optical and coaxial digital inputs let you connect your TV or other audio players and enjoy quality sound. Hi-Res Audio is also supported, with the capacity to process up to 192 kHz sampling rates.
The A-40AE features an aluminum volume knob with a solid, high-grade feel and style. The simple aluminum front panel also adds a touch of elegance to the audio experience.
The integrated amplifier automatically switches to standby mode after 20 minutes of no audio input or operation.