Diving deep into the archives of speaker forums, a thread about the Pioneer CS-A700 speakers caught my attention, resonating with my own long-term experience with this vintage audio gem. Having used a pair of CS-A700s for several years, I’ve developed a genuine appreciation for their sound profile, so much so that they’ve remained my go-to speakers despite opportunities to explore newer designs. There’s something uniquely compelling about their audio output that continues to satisfy.
Opening up the cabinets reveals a generous stuffing of what appears to be shredded cloth insulation. This material, similar to padding used under area rugs, effectively dampens vibrations and contributes to the speaker’s substantial weight. It’s worth noting that this insulation can retain odors, a characteristic to be aware of if sourcing speakers from varied environments.
The front-mounted level controls, typical of speakers from their era, are prone to developing contact issues from years of static positioning. While surface cleaning from the front can offer temporary relief, a more effective solution involves removing and thoroughly cleaning these controls. Even after cleaning, a slight “tuning” feel, reminiscent of adjusting an old radio dial, can persist, though functionality is generally restored to a reasonable level.
One of the most intriguing, yet unexplored features for many owners, is the CS-A700’s multi-amping capability. The concept of dedicating separate amplifiers to high, mid, and low frequencies opens up a realm of sonic experimentation, particularly appealing to enthusiasts of tube amplification, where efficiency considerations are paramount. Unfortunately, time constraints have prevented me from delving into this fascinating aspect, a venture that remains on my audio exploration wishlist.
Aesthetically, the speaker grills are undeniably handsome, contributing to the speaker’s vintage charm. However, their impact on sound is noticeable. Removing the grills allows the speakers to breathe more freely, suggesting a degree of sound muffling, whether due to age-related material changes or intentional design. The robust construction of the grills is appreciated, especially for those who, like myself, frequently remove and reattach them for critical listening sessions.
In my listening space, characterized by hardwood flooring, the CS-A700s are positioned on simple, custom-built stands. Elevating them approximately 6 inches at the back to 7 inches at the front, these stands, coupled with small rubber discs for isolation, significantly improve sound projection. Direct floor placement resulted in a somewhat echo-prone sound, not solely attributable to room acoustics, highlighting the benefit of even slight elevation for optimal performance in similar environments. My listening is typically conducted in a smaller room and at moderate volumes.
While the original forum discussion might have faded from recent activity, my enduring fondness for the Pioneer CS-A700 compels me to share these reflections. These speakers offer a unique blend of vintage aesthetics and enduring sound quality that continues to resonate with discerning listeners.
