COPLAND CSA29
Integrated amplifiers
The satin silver of aluminum and the chalkboard black chassis. Smoldering red of the display digits. The precision of the two machined knobs that are symetrically placed to the sides. The laboratory-like calibration of the volume ontrol. The sharp edges of the logo that is deep-cut into the front panel. This is the Copland CSA29.
Function and form
The CSA29 extends the Copland's line of hybrid amplifiers. It combines two low noise Sovtek/Electro Harmonix 6922EH (Made in Russia) on its input with bipolar transistors in its power stage that can deliver 2x85W into 8 ohms. The design is symmetrical, with 2x2 capacitors, 10.000uF each channel. The power supply is a massive toroid (Dantrafo Horsens 600W). The volume is regulated through a blue Alps. The cooling fins are confined inside the chassis and the ventilation is ensured by heat convenction through openings in the bottom and top metal plate.
Bass management
The bass guitar's lines were punchy and vibrant, very articulated and never slow. The kicks of a big drum, conveyed through Audio Physic Virgo V, were felt deep in my body. All the rattles, ringers, shakers and other rhythmic instruments that are found in the Dense Ju Cankisou's album were realistic, transient focused and alive, as much as was an acordeon, trumpet, didgeridoo, guitars and other acoustic instruments. To be clear: the CSA29 is an excellent amplifier within its price range and my enthusiasm is expressed considering the category.
Clarity & delicacy
The Copland CSA29 will be a great amplifier for anyone with limited budget and desire to enjoy the music. It is a real affordable high end device with solid bass, fast sound, clean lateral stage and amazing depth. And it looks nice too.
Tonal accuracy
Turning down the volume did not eliminate the Copland's charm, it was a good companion in late night listening sessions. However, when I tried to play really loud, I felt slight compression of dynamics and changes in tonality with orchestrated music. Also its highs became stiff and less resolved in fortissimos. I would recommend to look for your amplifier either between pure valve amps or between those operating in Class A, if you prefer rich and natural colour pallettes.
Spatial resolution
The front panel allows for switching inputs including the tape input, controlling the volume or putting the amplifier in the Stand-by mode. The rear panel is all RCA, there is neither the option of balanced XLR inputs (which is a pity) nor phono preamp connectors. If you need to use a turntable with the CSA29 then the preamp is an optional module - the amp in the test did not have one but I heard that the phono amp is a very good one.
The speaker posts are connected to the circuit wires by bolts - I'd rather see soldered joints. On the other hand the speaker posts are reasonably spaced and they accept bananas, spades or bare wires with no issue.
Recommended resellers
High-End Audio Studio, Praha, tel. +420 224 256 844
Manufacturer's website: http://www.copland.dk
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