More current, USB-DAC capability and control for demanding speakers
The PMA-1700NE delivers 70W per channel and integrates USB-DAC, Advanced AL32 Processing Plus and MM/MC phono for a higher-level stereo system.
The step beyond the PMA-900HNE is not built-in streaming, which is absent here, but the audio section. Its Advanced UHC-MOS single push-pull output stage delivers 70W into 8 ohms and 140W into 4 ohms, providing greater reserve with demanding speakers. USB-B turns the amplifier into a computer DAC, while Advanced AL32 Processing Plus operates on PCM signals.
Key features
- 70W per channel into 8 ohms and 140W into 4 ohms
- Advanced UHC-MOS single push-pull output stage
- USB-DAC up to 384kHz/32-bit and DSD 11.2MHz
- Advanced AL32 Processing Plus
- MM/MC phono stage and Analogue Mode
Role in the system
The digital section also accepts optical and coaxial signals, allowing a computer, streamer and CD transport to be centralised. Analogue Mode switches off unnecessary digital circuits during analogue listening. Both MM and MC cartridges are supported, avoiding an external phono pre-amplifier in many systems.
The PMA-1700NE suits owners of more demanding speakers or listeners using a computer as a primary source. The PMA-3000NE goes further in current delivery, rigidity, power supply and Ultra AL32, but retains the same logic: both prioritise performance and separate sources over the HEOS convenience of the 900HNE.
Outputs for two speaker pairs support A/B installations, while pre-out can feed a compatible external component or power amplifier. Electronic volume control is designed for precise adjustment even at low levels. Weight and power supply increase substantially over the first two PMA models, matching the aim of driving more demanding loads.
The higher output should not be read in isolation; its advantage emerges when a load demands current and listening level rises. The 1700NE remains a two-channel amplifier without video switching. A television uses optical input, while HDMI switching requires a DRA stereo receiver.
