Copland CSA 150

The CSA150 integrated amplifier is the latest development from Copland. The device is based on the synectic design concept, which has brought widespread acclaim to Copland hybrid amplifiers, combining the advantages of tube and transistor amplifiers.

The CSA150 amplifier is equipped with a 2 x 150 W semiconductor stage with current feedback of the power stage, and the signal is supplied from the preamplifier operating on a double triode.

One tube is responsible for the linear amplification of the CSA150. The applied solution is distinguished by amazing efficiency. The dual triode operates at high voltage in a configuration for maximum linearity, taking care only of the voltage amplification. The MOS-FET circuit, in turn, provides a powerful force that drives the linear stage output and feedback circuit, thus facilitating the collaboration between the world of voltage-controlled electronic tubes and current-controlled transistor technology.

If you want the warm and colorful charm of older tube designs, the CSA150 tube linear stage will give you that experience. In this case, the tube creates life, space and dynamics that are difficult to find in amplifiers based solely on solid state technology.

With the vinyl enthusiast in mind, the designers have equipped the CSA150 with a RIAA-corrected input for MM cartridges. The amplifier also uses an excellent DAC with multiple S / PDIF, PCM and DSD inputs, based on the 32-bit ES9018 Reference chip in a quad-mono configuration, 8 mono to 2 stereo configuration.
“In short, the Copland starts singing from the opening bars of music and has a certain clarity of purpose.”… “The pure dimension this amplifier operates within is just one of the things that make it different.”… “Great job by the CSA-150 here as it peels back the layers to reveal another side of its nature.”
Copland’s new CSA150 is a seriously capable integrated amplifier. In absolute terms – compared to the best amps money can buy – it lacks incision, depth perspective and bass grip, but it’s one of the finest sounding designs at its price – and my own personal current favourite. Compared to Creek’s excellent Voyage i20, for example – which is just a little cheaper – it offers extra power and a more pleasing tonality, allied to a subtly more musical character. I really took to it, and reckon that despite its immodest price, it is still excellent value for money.
“This is an amplifier that does everything that is asked of it. It has a wonderful blend of musicality, pace and timing. It is even handed across its frequency range, at least that part of its frequency range that my system could resolve. It is not fatiguing to listen to for hours on end and if coupled with suitably capable sources and loudspeakers it should be the final stop in many an audio lover’s quest for the ideal amplifier.“
“The amplifier builds a large soundstage, filled to the brim with reverberation. The depth turns out to be striking and “developed” with hectoliters of “playing” air. Thanks to this, one has the impression of freedom and specific lightness. “
“… its character it’ll give you hours of listening pleasure. It also picks up brownie points for looking smart and being wellconnected. Audition it alongside the more affordable CSA100.”