Yamaha’s Tiny New Hi-Fi Components Look Familiar, But Almost Everything Has Changed
Yamaha has quietly given its compact streaming Hi-Fi range a major update. The new WXA-70A amplifier and WXC-70A network streamer replace the previous-generation WXA-50 and WXC-50 with more modern digital technology, expanded connectivity, and Yamaha’s latest MusicCast features.
At first glance, the two new components may look familiar. But underneath their compact aluminum enclosures, Yamaha has made some significant changes that could make these small boxes surprisingly versatile additions to a modern Hi-Fi system.
Yamaha WXA-70A and WXC-70A bring modern streaming to compact Hi-Fi
The WXA-70A is the more complete of the two, combining network streaming with a built-in Class D amplifier rated at 70 watts per channel into 8 ohms. It is designed for listeners who want a compact all-in-one solution without giving up the flexibility of a separate Hi-Fi system.
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The WXC-70A, meanwhile, is a dedicated network streamer. It has no built-in power amplifier, making it a better match for an existing stereo amplifier or power amplifier.
Both models use an ESS Sabre ES9039Q2M DAC, with Yamaha’s own electronics handling digital signal processing. Yamaha has also incorporated ASRC clock recovery technology and YPAO automatic room calibration, bringing technologies normally associated with larger components into these relatively compact units.
More than just music streamers
Yamaha has also designed the WXA-70A and WXC-70A to work as part of a wider home entertainment system.
Both units include optical, line-level, and auxiliary inputs, while HDMI eARC allows them to connect directly to a modern television. There is also a dedicated subwoofer output, making it possible to build a compact stereo system with additional low-frequency reinforcement.
The WXC-70A adds optical and coaxial digital outputs, giving owners more flexibility when connecting it to an external DAC or other digital equipment.
That makes these components considerably more interesting than simple network streamers. They can sit at the center of a compact stereo system, connect to a television, integrate with a subwoofer, and still provide access to Yamaha’s broader streaming ecosystem.
MusicCast, AirPlay 2, Qobuz and Tidal are all on board
Streaming is handled through Yamaha’s MusicCast platform, with support for AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify, Qobuz, and Tidal Connect.
The two models can also be integrated into multi-room systems, allowing music to be distributed around the home. Yamaha has also included Roon integration, giving users another option for managing a larger digital music library and multi-room setup.
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For anyone building a modern Hi-Fi system around streaming rather than physical media, the connectivity makes the WXA-70A and WXC-70A considerably more flexible than their compact dimensions might suggest.
Compact aluminum boxes with a serious purpose
Both Yamaha components use aluminum enclosures designed to help reduce unwanted vibration. The WXC-70A has the more compact form factor of the pair and is aimed specifically at listeners who already have amplification and simply need a modern network audio source.
The WXA-70A takes the same basic concept a step further by adding a 70-watt-per-channel Class D amplifier, creating a compact system that can be paired with passive speakers without requiring a separate amplifier.
The interesting question is whether Yamaha’s new generation can deliver the performance expected from a modern Hi-Fi component while retaining the small footprint that made the original WXA-50 and WXC-50 attractive in the first place.
For listeners who want streaming, TV connectivity, multi-room audio, room correction and conventional Hi-Fi connections in a compact system, the new WXA-70A and WXC-70A could be among Yamaha’s most versatile small-format components yet.
