WXA-70A and WXC-70A, the small Yamaha models

Yamaha is once again making a strong push into the compact Hi-Fi market, introducing two devices that—at least on paper—combine virtually everything one would expect from a modern audio system today: streaming, high-quality D/A conversion, HDMI eARC, room correction, and, in the case of the WXA-70A, amplification as well.

The new Yamaha WXA-70A and WXC-70A share much of the same technological platform, but are aimed at two different types of users. The former is a true streaming amplifier to which you simply connect a pair of speakers; the latter omits the power amplifier stage and is designed instead as a streamer/preamplifier to be integrated into an existing system.

This is a formula Yamaha knows well, and with this new generation, it has been updated—primarily in the digital section. At the heart of both units is the ESS SABRE ES9039Q2M DAC, accompanied by sophisticated internal processing and the ASRC system, which is used to restore the signal’s timing before it reaches the converter.

The work done on the DAC is particularly interesting. Yamaha uses what it calls D.O.P.G. (DAC on Pure Ground), a configuration designed to create a particularly clean ground reference for the analog section. Added to this are the separation of the analog and digital circuits and special attention to the layout of the signal paths and power supply sections. It is therefore not simply a matter of choosing a good conversion chip, but of working on its implementation—an aspect that we know is often more important than the mere model number listed on the spec sheet.

The WXA-70A features Class D amplification based on the ICEpower 125ASX2 module. Yamaha rates it at 70 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 105 watts into 4 ohms—figures that make the compact WXA an attractive option not only for desktop systems or a second room, but also for building a true compact Hi-Fi system with a pair of high-quality speakers.

The WXC-70A does not have a power amplifier stage and can be used either as a player or as a preamplifier. It is an attractive option for those who already own a power amplifier, an integrated amplifier, or a pair of active speakers and want to add a modern digital source without replacing the rest of their system.

But there’s another feature that makes these two Yamaha models quite unique in their category, and that is YPAO.

The Yamaha Parametric Room Acoustic Optimizer system uses the included microphone to analyze how the system behaves within the room and adapt its response to the room’s characteristics. This is a technology we’ve long been familiar with in Yamaha products, but one that takes on perhaps even greater significance in devices of this type. In fact, a compact system is often installed in the living room, near the TV, or in other spaces where it’s difficult to position the speakers with millimeter precision. Under these conditions, well-implemented room correction can be far more useful than a simple entry in the list of features might suggest.

And the television has now become a full-fledged source for Hi-Fi as well. Yamaha acknowledges this by equipping both models with an HDMI eARC/ARC connection, which allows you to route the TV’s audio to the system via a single cable and, with compatible devices, use the same remote control for power and volume.

There’s also the Dialogue Level feature, designed to enhance the clarity of speech without having to indiscriminately raise the overall volume. This feature may seem far removed from more traditional hi-fi, but it’s perfectly in line with how many home audio systems are used today.

When it comes to streaming, the features are exactly what we’d expect from a latest-generation Yamaha. In addition to the proprietary MusicCast ecosystem, with its multi-room capabilities, it supports AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, and Qobuz Connect.

Of particular significance to the more dedicated audiophile audience is the Roon Readycertification is particularly significant for the more dedicated audiophile audience, as it allows the two devices to integrate directly into a Roon system without the need for additional endpoints or interfaces.

Yamaha hasn’t overlooked build quality either. The WXA-70A and WXC-70A feature an aluminum chassis with a structure reinforced by a central bar, damping materials, and a heat dissipation system designed with vibration control in mind. The finish is matte anodized, and the WXA-70A also features gold-plated speaker terminals. In short, they may be small, but they aspire to be considered true Hi-Fi components—not merely streaming devices.

Finally, the focus on the world of installations is interesting. Compatibility is available Control4, web-based configuration, an IR input, and a 12-volt trigger; Wi-Fi and Bluetooth can be disabled separately when the device is integrated into an externally controlled system.

With the WXA-70A and WXC-70A, Yamaha seems intent on reviving a concept that has become increasingly important in recent years: streamlining the system without necessarily scaling back its capabilities.

The WXA-70A can serve as the heart of an extremely simple system—consisting solely of the amplifier and two speakers—yet capable of handling digital music, streaming services, and a TV. The WXC-70A, on the other hand, is perhaps an even more versatile solution, as it allows you to bring the same functionality into a traditional system while retaining your existing amplifier and speakers.

Technical Specifications:

WXA-70A

Output power: 55W/ch into 8Ω
Inputs: RCA, optical, HDMI eARC, LAN, USB-A
Outputs: Binding posts for speakers
File formats: MP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, WAV, FLAC, ALAC, AIFF, DSD
Services: Server, Internet Radio, AirPlay, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Google Cast, Roon Ready, Qobuz Connect
Bluetooth: SBC/AAC
YPAO: PEQ, Reflected Sound Control (R.S.C), YPAO Volume
Power consumption: 2W standby
Dimensions: 220 x 73 x 267 mm;
Weight: 2.6 kg

WXC-70A

Inputs: RCA, optical, HDMI eARC, LAN, USB-A
Outputs: Subwoofer, pre-out, optical, coaxial
File formats: MP3, WMA, MPEG-4 AAC, WAV, FLAC, ALAC, AIFF, DSD
Services: Server, Internet Radio, AirPlay, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Google Cast, Roon Ready, Qobuz Connect
Bluetooth: SBC/AAC
YPAO: PEQ, Reflected Sound Control (R.S.C), YPAO Volume
Power consumption: 2W standby
Dimensions: 220 x 73 x 267 mm;
Weight: 1.9 kg

Prices:

WXA-70A: 1,399€

WXC-70A: €999

Manufacturer: Yamaha 10-1, Nakazawacho, Naka-ku, Hamamatsu-shi, Shizuoka, 430-8650, Japan

Distributor: Yamaha Branch Italy Via A. Tinelli, 67/69 20855 Gerno di Lesmo (MB)