I took the plunge and have been spinning it for hours and hours….. A wonderful blend of vintage styling and modern sound. Quite different from my Clearaudio Concept and vintage Project/one DR550. A real winner
I'm in two minds of upgrading, I have a rega P1 and i need an upgrade at some point because the rest of my system is way superior now. I have a Denon a110 so Im thinking about this turn table with a 103 stylus. I don't know if it's going to be clearer than a Rega P1. I guess it should 😂😅
@@2HatHudders as with most things audio… it depends… I think that there are aspects of my older TT that may be a little more refined. But when i had them both hooked up for comparison I preferred the Denon overall. Not necessarily better, but very different from my clearaudio. More lively, punchy and timing was better to my ears. Hope you can find one to hear
@@PackPeelPour yes, it's certainly a little daunting when looking at individual tone arms, and plinths etc. I am not going to rush this. Just take my time with the upgrade.
Love the quality and design of this denon I really do, but after years of auditioning high end tables ive learned that there comes a point of diminishing returns, meaning to say after you silenced all the vibration, installed the best quality cart, cables, tonearms, tweaks etc. it still gets down to just a needle in a groove and when you start getting into thousands of dollars to spin your records on whats essentially at its core 110 year old technology youre still going to hear surface noise of some degree etc - of course the technology has improved by leaps and bounds in this time but beyond a certain point theres nothing left to gain no matter how much exotic wood, heavy platters and jewel-esque cartrdidge design you throw at it. I just feel at some point after all the technology has been exhausted when you keep going up in price now youre just paying for image, exotic woods, NASA grade motors, high end $$$$ needles that only last so many hours before needing replaced at the cost of hundreds of dollars etc etc etc. until youre at the point of having to spend insane amounts of money to obtain any more real sonic improvement. I have to admit when I see the insane forty fifty sixty grand table setups from europe I feel like im now looking at modern art - even a $10,000+ Rolex watch with all its beautiful work isnt as accurate as a good $50+ digital watch these days.
The Denon DP-51F I bought new 40 years ago still runs flawlessly. I've changed cartridges a few times, but I never felt the need to replace the DP-51F. If I ever need a new turntable, Denon would be my first choice.
Denon DP-62L had a W&F of 0.008 and Technics SL1200 Mk II well, exaggerated their claim and it was 10% worse until the new SL1200 G came out and wow, yep. +0.03 and -0.5. Right. It's always interesting to hear some new stuff but many Technics buyers just like the brand you know?
It would be interesting to know when the CD was issued and mastered. I love analog as well but find well mastered digital to be very dynamic and musical. I have digital versions of recordings that sound far better than the vinyl version and in other cases the vinyl wins. Mastering is everything when it comes to sound quality and trumps playback medium every time when it comes to what you hear at the end of the day.
The CD Steve showed was from the Columbia Jazz Masters series issued in and around 1991. Normally older CD's can sound pretty good due to low compression, but this particular series was notorious for sounding muddy, lifeless and just not great. In terms of On The Corner, Columbia has released several better sounding CD and SACD versions since then. They would have made a better comparison.
I'm an audio engineer by trade and have had the privilege of hearing the very best digital systems and in regards to faithfully reproducing recorded sound even the very best analog tape machines fall short and it's not even close.Analog can add a pleasing color to drums and electric guitars via tape compression and saturation but this can easily be emulated in digital audio work stations using harmonic saturation and transformer modeling software plugins within the DAW. This is not to say that a 2" muli track tape machine can't sound amazing but it accomplishes that in part due to its technical and mechanical limitations and not because it's a superior format for sound reproduction. Almost all modern recordings are digitally mastered these days and the vinyl records that end up in the hands of the consumer are compromised significantly compared to the original digital master in regards to audio quality. On the other hand take the best turntable and cartridge set up on Earth and record it digitally through professional converters at 24/96k and even the most gifted golden ear analog fan would not be able to pick it one from the other in a blind test. I enjoy listening to both analog and digital music but I'm under no illusion as to analog being technically or musically superior by default as is often echoed in the audiophile community. I'm a recovering audiophile myself so I'm subject to change my mind on this topic at any time. 😁😁😁
Would love to see a review on that JC3+. Also, a hidden feature of the 1500C and 100C is an auto stop to compliment the auto lift. The auto lift switch has to be off, then press and hold both speed switches while turning the auto lift switch to on. Release the buttons. Now choose the speed you want. When playing your record and the arm auto lifts, the platter will stop at the same time. This also activates a 20 minute auto power off. If you turn off the auto lift you have to go through the entire procedure again to get it back.
Great tip, I'll give it a try. I had to recalibrate my auto-lift from factory, to accommodate records with a small runout - a great feature to have, and it works flawlessly.
Yeah but on the hum side ... I found you know, some amplifiers had what was known as double insulated status, some had a ground for the cartridge Earth but there's what we call a 'ground loop' issue and some you know ... North American ... amplifiers need a separate ground wire or else if we touch the face and then inadvertently put our other hand on an earth point like a hot water radiator, then we're toast. But in the US, it's only 110AC. The problem is with tube amplifiers that step up the voltage to 450 dc.
Two things I test in a turntable: Congestion and groove noise. Cheap tables blur an orchestra on a crescendo. Horns become a mass of noise. Strings are not individuals but just a blur of noise. Cheap tables sound congested. You didn't discuss the congestion factor. Hmmm. As for groove noise listen in between tracks to the groove going by. A cheap table will amplify that noise. Perhaps even add a bass-y rumble due to a noisy bearing. But definitely reveal the whoosh and grinding sound of the groove going by. An expensive table with a great arm will suppress that noise and perhaps place it outside the speaker boundary to remove it from the soundfield. You did not discuss how bad the Denon is or compare its groove noise to your Technics. The new Denon tone arm has a rubber separator halfway up the arm to allow it to shake and wiggle. On old tone arms that used this de-coupling approach the idea was to make the arm dampen the stylus vibration to produce cleaner audio. But over time the rubber wears out and the arm droops. A lot of old rubber mounted arms are worn out due to this construction. I am avoiding the Denon for that reason. No mention of this in your review. Not a great review, Steve. At least in my opinion you didn't discuss these important issues and sort of just said 'The Denon is a swell turntable." Not very insightful. Ha! Thanks for noticing its release but I doubt your review brought clarity to this particular subject. Oh well...
You won’t live long enough for that tonearm to droop even infinitesimally due to deterioration of that rubber separator. I have a vintage Denon arm from the early 80s that is father to this new arm, and it’s still straight as an arrow. You might better question whether it’s a good idea.
Those are entry level turntables, not even close to the 1200G. So if you're looking for something on the level of GR or G, there's no alternative offered by Technics.
Probably the closer comparison would be with Techincs ' newly released SL-1200 GR2 at about $2200 with it's upgraded speed monitor & control system . The Denon is gorgeous !
@@SPINNINGMYWHEELS777 Definitely not possible to offer a turntable with such a tonearm for 600 bucks, despite the motor being just a generic Hanpin one. It's the tonearm that makes this one stand out from other Hanpin turntables. Just the tonearm would probably already go for 600 bucks if they'd sell it separately.
@@ptg01very depending on which technics sl he has bought I guess. The later "cheaper" models are barely worth the comparison and definitely not the money. There are cheaper turntables that are just as good. (I speak about the Malaysian made sl models). The Japanese made technics turntables are still some of the best on the market. Unfortunately there is a big difference nowadays.
I own a Denon DP-60L (bought new back in '79/'80) that still sounds great. Wondering how it compares with the DP-3000NE. Edit: Well, 2 days after making this comment, my DP-60L crapped out. So I ordered the 3000NE, and so I guess I'll be able to answer my own question.
Well I should just say that Steve compares a vinyl record with a CD and ... well the CD gets the name of being lifeless. That figures because like tubes yo know a cartridge is a simple device where with a radio analog tuner like a Technics ST-S8, all these integrated circuits you know add up. But I'd say Steve's Mola Mola had some issues, there's a DXD Noise problem and these things have to be run-in and a good combination of equipment. The vinyl record is a easy fix by comparison.
I've waited a long time for this review ever since it was announced. Now I'm tortured ! I bought a Technics 1210GR right after you bought your 1200G. I also suffer from the same issues you have. I love the Technics in every way except for the DJ looks. It blew away the Thorens TD125 MKII/SME 3009 tonearm I was using. I love how the Denon looks, it looks like an Audiophile turntable. Now I'm debating selling the Technics for the Denon. It never ends!
Yeah but when we know Technics sound ... we know about Steve's sidekick Devon Turnbull. Devon puts 1200 MKII motors into wooden plinths - why? Because wood rings like a bell and it's a natural fabric, it's like a rever unit as is a thick rubber mat as the Denon sports. The non-resonant compound of Matsushita Electric always gave an artificial, dead sound quality, but in Discos, why nobody ever noticed, too loud to talk. But in Britain ... yep no audiophile 'in town or in dale', ever yet listened to a Disco turntable, Technics 1200G you know is Steve's ... way of saying that he likes Japanese imports. He's a Lexus LC500 guy at heart, but dreams of Ferraris.
Hey Mr. G. “It never ends”…. ain’t that the truth. Just dusted off the Ol’ Denon, (with same HO/MC Steve just showed), to tame the little Klipsch beasts Santa brought me. It’s never sounded better. But now there’s this new temping beauty? 40lbs, real wood, removable HS….Oh, yea. I’m staring my letter…”Dear Santa, I’ll be extra good this year”…🍻
@@rotorfix Well core-less originated in the year 1973 with a German Dual TT. By the end of the 1970s there were a bunch of Japanese core-less turntables. You know the core-less motor is a red herring and you know back in the day I found one of the best TTs were Garrard LAB 80. There was something about these that just seemed to lift detail out of a record. British Empire stuff wow! But Technics you know ... core-less, it's a brand thing.
Oh c'mon! The Technics was the greatest thing since sliced bread before this, and now you can't stand the looks? And by the way, they do make turntables that don't have the DJ style, the SL-100C and the SL-1500C. I was recently considering the Denon, but went with the Technics SL-1200GR2 instead. But at some later date I might get the Denon because I do like it. That Tommy Guerrero album is great, and I have a couple more by him.
@@SuomiFinland78 T Yes I like it but the DJ type features are really unnecessary for me. I think it depends on the looks you prefer since they are both fully manual. I'm running mine into my Yamaha A-S3200 integrated amp which has a very good phono pre-amp. Currently I have an Audio-Technica AT-VM95ML/H and AT-95C/H for LPs and 7" 45s, and for budget cartridges they are pretty good. I still use my TEAC TN-5BB turntable with an Audio-Technica AT-OC9XML moving coil since it is semi-auto with the stop/lift feature. You might want to check out the TEAC because it's very good too, although a belt drive. I wish my Technics (and the Denon) had that auto stop/lift as it is so nice. Good luck.
Vintage Denon turntables were and are my favorite. Their specs are amazing and I've got a DP-45F that's been going strong since the mid 80s. I bought it for 180 bucks in 2006, fully automatic direct drive. Freaking great! Glad to see Denon stepping up their game.
Great review. You do a great job. Amd great choice in records. Being a 50 year old retired skateboarder I was pretty stoked to see you listening to Tommy Guerrero. He was one of the pioneers of street skating and a big time pro in the 80s. Took me by surprise to see you pull that record out. He's amazing. Didn't quite get his name right but that's ok. 😊
Have the 3000NE set up with an Audio Technica mono as I start out listening to LP’s bought before there were stereo LP’s. What great sound! So pleased that I bought it!
keep up the good work Steve I remember in the 90s when you worked for Andy S. I just saw a ad from the stereo exchange. broadway NYC I use to go from the Bronx Up to Central ave hung out with stue from the listen room & marcel from Lyric in what plains you remember those days. I still have my Krell KSA150
This looks like one beautiful turntable. Exactly how i like them! Unfortunately, i got no reason at all to get rid of my extraordinary 1980 23KG Japanese Pioneer PL70. If i was in the market for a new turntable, this would definitely go on my list. But it wouldn't be an upgrade for me now.
I have other more modern turntables, but still have the Pioneer PL-707 that I purchased new in the mid-1980s. It still sounds great with a Denon DL160 MC cartridge.
Steve, what is your problem with DJs . Thee first DJS were thevbiggest audiophiles the story was There in NYC . Look after David Macuso and Nicky Siano.. the SL-1200 stunnning looking turntable
Love your new look but mostly, your authenticity! That's what keeps me coming back to your videos. Steve, you're simply the Best! I wish you a wonderful, healthy and happy new year!
ironic people listening to music may not be 'musical' ?? lol - most modern records since the 1950s are pretty accurate to proper pitch - some exceptions though of course and done for various reasons. when Vari-pitch came out for tape machines in the studio - it essentially is the first 'auto tune' but was used to stretch and pitch vocals so many of those aspects (like robert plants voice) can never be properly rectififed as it would clash with the music and now can be 'properly pitched' in digital software but since the package was a whole and not seperate parts (Led Zeppelin) no one really cares if it's on pitch as the band didn't have that intention . LOL
My Life In the Bush of Ghosts! When I saw that label, my mind went right to that record, so I backed up your vid and paused it to read the title, and sure enough! LOVE that album, musically and sonically. Thanks for your channel.
Amen on the whole pitch control/DJ aspect. I am an ex-DJ of several decades and always used Technics 1210’s. I know those decks inside out and how they sound but have never liked them (or their modern iterations) in my two-channel listening system. I really don’t want a turntable where part of the production budget incorporates a pitch control. I have been saying for some time that Technics need a deck between their 1500 and SP-10 with no pitch control. This Denon seems to fit the bill in many ways, would love to see a review with this matched with their DL-301 cartridge. Btw. I do have a pair of Denon VL12 Prime turntables in my studio which are great DJ decks if you want high quality audio playback.
Bought Technics SL-1200GR2 and not gonna give one more cent for turntable. I`m happy with that no matter what YT say. I will only invest in new cartridge and cable if need.
your review is fantastic - I like the words you use and how you pass on the feelings about these 2 turn tables - this comparison is all I needed to hear !
"it looks like a DJ turntable"! Steve, you must see the irony in that statement. The old Technics SL-1200 had been in production for years, to the point where sales had fallen off. So what kept it in production? DJs discovered the rugged build, stable drive, and ability to withstand "scratching" torture. So their demand kept it in production. This design was not influenced by or directed to DJs, it was a home audio table adopted by DJs. Now I understand it has commonly (if unfortunately) come to be known as a DJ table. For that I agree it could have been better for Technics to redesign the new models. However that didn't prevent me from buying a SL-1200G. And I've found that slider control to be useful a couple of times when the recorded speed sounded a little off. How many other current tables provide that benefit? ;^)
I decided that I wanted to try a direct drive turntable...and I went back & forth between this Denon, the Music Hall Stealth & The Technics SL-1210GR. Ultimately, I went with the Music Hall Stealth because I got a fantastic deal on an open box unit from a reputable seller (Safe & Sound). I added a linear PSU, a 3mm Funk Firm Achromat, an Ortofon 2M Bronze, a Michell Engineering Record Clamp & A Pro-Ject Tube Box S2 phono preamp. I'm pretty happy w/ my choice, but I don't think I would have been let down with any of the 3 'tables I was considering. This Denon is the best looking of the 3 imho. I really think it's a great looking turntable. I'm considering the Black Ice Audio Fusion9 MKIII phono preamp next. The little Pro-Ject Tube Box S2 is a solid piece of kit, but I really want a full component sized phono preamp for some reason.
I'm not into the vinyl anymore, hauling it up and down stairs during a move got to be old as I did the same. It also became more and more challenging to store in a small condo and with a small child who displayed a curious tendency to want to "explore" I was concerned about the possibility of my vinyl and CD's toppling. I went full digital. I owned the DP-55K fully automatic turntable back in the 80's which I mounted a Grace 707-MKII tonearm on along with their Grace F-8/L cartridge, later going with a Grado MC cartridge. It was a beautiful Rosewood table which initially needed the logic board replaced TWICE and had to go to Japan so I was without for several months but once finally repaired it was just wonderful for many years before I sold it. I added an Audio-Technica arm lifter along the way, the whole set-up costing me just $485 purchased directly from a dealer representative after showing the table at the Chicago Audio show. This new table looks nice enough but TWO Grand? WOW!
Thank you so much for the review and recommendation. I just replaced my Schiit Sol with the DP-3000NE. Wow, you weren't kidding about it being quiet. I had a Denon DL-103 low output MC cart I couldn't really use on the Sol (too noisy). But I mounted it on the DP-3000NE and it can handle the extra gain from the phono stage with no problem. Also I am noticing excellent separation and sound stage; better than the Sol. Thanks Steve
I owned quite a few Denon Turntables in the late 70's and 80's. I know you know those great turntables were made in Japan by Denon's parent company Nippon Columbia. I have long since left the I really care what it looks like camp and moved over to the how good does it sound camp. The only way I will part with my any of my Technics SL-1200's (GR and modified MK 7) is when I sell them for the G's. Like the cap...
There’s an opening in the market for a direct drive fully automatic and i’m a bit disappointed that this didn’t take that spot :( Many other options for direct drive manual
@@SPINNINGMYWHEELS777 I have a Dual 721 Direct Drive turntable, top of the line, made in Germany 1980. Weighs over 20 pounds. I mounted an Ortofon 2M Black on it. It sounds 97% as good as my Linn LP-12/Ittok/Troika. It gets used (and enjoyed) far more often than the Linn BECAUSE IT’S FULLY AUTOMATIC!
As a dance/electronic music fan, I like the look of the technics as it feels 'right' to me. Even though I have no aspirations to DJ with vinyl. This Denon should be compared to the SL-1200GR2 imo.
I still use DP-6000 turntable with DL-1000A Moving Coil cartridge (0.8g miraculous stylus pressure!), passed on to me by an old friend. Original DP-3000 was a household name for Japanese audio mania in 70s. Attaboy! to the engineer who gave another birth to this historical machine.
I have an 100v japanese M08 Denon turntable. It has hydraulic anti skate and tonearm pressure knobs at the base of the tone arm. This sounds better than my old technics ever did and is direct drive.
Finally, we get a truly high-quality audiophile quality direct drive turntable. I've always preferred direct drive over belt drive because you don't have to deal with replacing the drive belt every so often and a properly-engineered direct drive turntable has extremely low rumble. Anyone who remembers the Dual 701 note that it was (arguably) a quantum leap forward in turntable technology when it appeared in 1973.
Next time I’d suggest to compare vinyl with a high quality sacd/dsd version of the recording. CD is an outdated digital medium in terms of what’s available in digital today. Thank you for your review!
When I first saw a picture of this turntable 5 months ago, I said to myself: "this is the new direct drive against which all others will be judged around this price point for the foregoing future." Like you, I hate the "DJ" look of other Direct Drive Turntables but this model, at least to my eyes, harkened back to the great days of Denon in the 80's. Yes, some of their models with those Servo Controlled Arms which are now almost impossible to service, are dinosaurs. But when they just got down to basics, there was nothing that could beat a basic Denon Direct Drive design. Now you are putting it through its paces and liking it. Expect a price increase as demand goes up.
My Denon DP 3000 NE sounds better than my Technics SL 1200 GR, in both cases with Denon DL 103 Standard. But the issue with my Denon: Tone arm installed at an angle, to the left. I have to use only Headshells, which are able to correct Azimuth with a screw on top. Like Ortofon LH 4000.
At last I have heard this turntable. At the Sydney hifi show connected to Classe top shelf electronics and B&W Matrix 802....completely ruthless speakers. Even compared to another $15000 turntable I was very impressed. I run a DP80 motor with Denon arm. Even at $5000 in Australia it's a good buy. The Technics is great too. Either way you could buy and set and forget for 20years . Then you can focus on cartridge and phono stages. Technics should bring back the Sl120....as you know it's the original 1200 as a motor unit. I run one with an SME3009 and a basic mofi cart...a very good unit. Yes indeed about the cd compared to records....jump factor is important. On a one million dollar system I heard this comparison and you are 100% right Steve. Very few reviews of this turntable.
I just got my Dp3000ne, in the past I have had technics 1210mk5, but I sold it because of the big difference in favor of a thorens td2030 that I still enjoy among other turntables like rega P10, thorens td160hd and linn lp12 selekt level wich is the best I have (way more expensive (6x) than Denon). I also listed several technics sl1200G in stores and friends houses, all of them sounds a little bright to my taste. I haven’t heard dp3000ne against 1200g directly but the Denon sounds to me more warm, with better midrange presence and more relax presentation without any trace of brightness, also the tonearm adjustment’s in the denon is far superior to any turntable I ever own, antiskating is great and very easy to setup, same with tracking force, but the best is the VTA, you can make adjustments while the disc is spinning, that is fantastic. So far I just can recommend the denon over any new technics, specially because I can hear music the entire day without any fatigue. Well done Denon!
Love the look ! Apparently the centre puck is for "doughnut records" with a large hole, not a record weight ! For me I just wish it had an auto stop function otherwise it gets a big thumbs up!
I'm from the 70's vintage era where tonearm automation was an essential component of the enjoyment and relaxation process. All my current 13 turntables except one (McIntosh MT-10) will take care of these auto duties, so it just seems weird that this feature was an unpopular option. Not only that but these newer models seem devoid of innovative engineering and Avant guard style. When asked what accounts for the difference in sound between the Denon and Technics there seems to be universal acceptance that if it sells for a higher price then logically the performance has improved. Balderdash!!!!
The DP3000NE is the most expensive deck on my audio wishlist. If my 40+ year old Denon DP2550A / Micro Seiki MA505 ever gives up the ghost it is the one I would probably buy as a replacement.
Wow...lotta gatekeepers in this comment section. Anyway... nice review. Three years ago a good friend gifted me a brand new Denon DP-1100 in the box. 1982 maybe? Some Hi-Fi store went out of business in the mid 80's and he got to choose a few things from non sold inventory. The plastic sheeting was still on the dust cover. He recapped it and aligned the tonearm gimbal. I put an AT-95 cart on it (I'm not into the details...it's the orange one) and it sounds fine to me. Use what you like and like what you use I guess.
I’m looking at this turntable Steve, 2 grand ish here in the UK. My brother has the 4 grand limited edition Technics 1210 and I was surprised how good direct drive sounded, but likewise to your self the DJ look kinda put me off. Great review btw.
Beautiful turntable but i really love my SL-100c i bought last year. I use the AT OC9XSL and the Denon A110 anniversary cart and both sound wonderful. I've never auditioned the Denon but i have an awesome table and saved enough to purchase alot more great vinyl.
Steve, A pitch control is for records that are off pitch, the 1200 BECAME a dj turntable, it was not made as one. get the "DJ turntable" out of the vocab, it's a TURNTABLE that DJ's used because it is VERY well made. Old Dual turntables also had pitch controls on them and DJ's don't use those.....
I don't get how the LP sounds so different from the CD - unless the LP is from the early 70's it would be mastered from the same digital source as the CD. Denon themselves brought in digital recording to the studio in 1977. No disrespect intended as new to your channel - was just wondering how it could sound so different as you mentioned, the only reason I can think of is that LP had a much better master engineer to the CD. I do love the feel and texture of vinyl - from the process of loading the music to the fact that you are drawn to stop messing with it and just enjoy the experience.
Well if you have perfect pitch or relative pitch then the Technics is the much more desirable piece. Didn't talk about resonances. Something that the Technics strives to conquer, where it look like the Denon doesn't strive to control those issues with just a common Aluminum platter. Why not compare the Denon to the 1200 G2.
How can you go wrong now that they use Delta Sigma Drive? It got rid of the noise (cogging) that they had removed with coreless design in the previous model. Eliminating the cogging they did not have in the original back in the day model. Denon used to use linear motors for their top ttbles. As did Technics in the SP10 and some Kenwoods. The Absolute Sound's Michael Fremer compared two megabucks turntables. Belt drive Airforce 3S and direct drive OAM K3. Same armed and cart moved between them. You can hear the comparison. Every comment preferred the lower cost belt drive.
Thanks, I bought it and I like it. The Ortofon 2M Black is a perfect partner to it. It doesn’t reach in quality and sound the Technics 1200G that I‘m owning too, but it looks very sexy. In my opinion a great buy!. As far as I know, the electrical drive is supported by Technics. A great choice by Denon.
Steve, I'm sure you know that you can stack the best dac on the digital side but if the mastering on the particular CD is not good enough, then it doesn't matter.
Hy Steve, nice review. I have a SL1200-G since last week. I am not happy. Mine has a lot of "bearing free play" in the spindle. I can easy hear a "clack-clack" noise and see the spindle move when I push alternating down the platter at 3 and 9 o'clock position. Does yours also have that behafiour? Regards, Markus
Excellent review....Two observations: 1/ The table Does Not have an Ebony Wood Veneer wrap....the top surface is a thin sheet of metal, probably aluminum with an anodizing process that has a stimulated look of Ebony.....I realize Denon is advertising it as having an Ebony Wood Veener....unfortunately it doesn't...The sub structure does have MDF, and thats where most of it generous 41 pounds comes from. 2/ If you want to improve the sense of dynamics and energy just swap out the rubber mat for something different...Funk Firm comes to mind, I personally gravitate toward a rounder, tonally denser sound, so wouldn't change the mat....by the way I do own the Denon 3000NE... It's a seriously good table and an over performer at it's current price.
I had been curious about the Denon turntables. One of the key features I look for in a turntable is atleast auto-stop or auto-return. The DP-3000NE has neither. Looking at it's direct drive, it is of the old-fashioned technology which has been known to have problems with cogging. It doesn't even have pitch control. I have run across records where the speed is slightly off. It drives me up the wall. With a pitch control, that is easily taken care of. I don't think that Technics has anything to worry about. The whole point of the current SL-1200 G and GR was to address the cogging issue. My daily driver, which uses the older DD system is a Technics-built MCS-6700, which is fully automatic and also is a stacker. I use it for digitizing records and while I am recording, should I be sidetracked, which happens often, I don't have to worry about the stylus running in the locked runout groove until I remember it. The recording program keeps running, but it is easy to chop off and trim the recorded file. If they made one that fit professional TT's, an auto lifter could be added on.
@@dockausik I am looking for features present on most Professional and well-respected turntables. Sure, some of the cheapest turntables are belt-driven and have auto-stop. Why not have auto-stop, they connect the switch which starts the turntable to the tone arm, why not have it stop the turntable too. Just because a turntable looks like it was made out of spare parts in somebody's garage nor a turntable which is an exercise in art, make it a superior turntable. Many of these kinds of turntables ignore advances made in turntable design decades ago. Look at what the people who make the audiophile records we buy use for quality control, comparisons and ultimate listening. Many use the Technics SL-1200 series or it's clones. A popular cartridge they use is the Shure M97xe with an original Shure stylus. Look at what Chad Kassem uses, a pair of Technics SL-1200G's with the Shure cartridge.
Hi, Steve, thanks for the review. I am deciding whether to buy the Audio -Technica AT-LP1240-USBXP turntable versus the Denon DP-3000NE. I can afford either, but I am dismayed that for the price the Denon DP-3000NE does not include: (1) a built-in amplifier and (2) a USB port, yet the AT-LP1240-USBXP has both for $599.99. To get the same features for the Denon, I need to buy a Denon PMA-1700NE amplifier with USB, at $2,099.00, the Denon DP-3000NE goes for $2,499.00. The Denon equivalent is $4,598 vs the A-T for $599.00. Is it really worth the expense? I can afford the Denon equipment equivalent, but cannot justify it, just yet. Will Denon ever include the preamp and USB, both in a future upgraded version of the DP-3000NE? Take care and be well.
Interesting review and comparison, Steve. Just wondering which cartridge seemed to be the best match with the Denon? Perhaps, a ranking? And, did you use the the best matching cartridge with the Denon in your comparison to the Technics? Thanks
Really interesting. I used to own a Denon DP2500 (DP2000 motor in there own affordable plinth) The arm was Ok but not great the Motor was superb - the Matt let it down a little making it sound a little bloated - So I had a different mat and an RB300 fitted. After that died I had a Gyrodec for 31 years but now have a SL1200G The 1200 G is the best deck so far and reminds me sometimes of the DP2500 . The mat is OK but I have changed that for an Achromat which tightened up the sound a lot. 2 AT EV33's one EV and one PTGii with a Nag MP200 as a back up Using Jelco MG headshells this is a great combination. In my case I was surprised to find I used the Speed control on Gerry Rafferty City to City as the record is slightly fast. I am more than happy with the SL1200.. BUT had the Denon DP3000NE come to my attention a year or so earlier I could easily have gone with that and also been satisfied it would seem
That is why I purchased the Technics SL 1500C because it did not have all of that DJ crap on it, I am not really satisfied with the 1500C, so I will move up to the SL-GR2 or the Denon DP-3000NE. I guess it is cheaper for Technics to continue to make turntables in that same old mold.
I agree. It's very easy to buy many models of classic Denon and Technics turntables for a much lower price. Many of these hold up very well and most of us will enjoy them just as much as this nice choice.
Couple of thangs… Technics is $2k more because it’s made in Japan, Denon made in China so I’m told. I’ve been waiting for this denon, looks so good Tommy Guerro was a super stylish pro skater boarder of the famous powel peralta team. His music reflects his style, so smooth sweet moves and tricks.
Denon produces great quality equipment, I have surround sound system , very good and was What HiFi best award some time back, great video Steve , regards Mark
I took the plunge and have been spinning it for hours and hours….. A wonderful blend of vintage styling and modern sound. Quite different from my Clearaudio Concept and vintage Project/one DR550.
A real winner
me too. loving this turntable, combines clarity, richness, super steady drive.
I'm in two minds of upgrading, I have a rega P1 and i need an upgrade at some point because the rest of my system is way superior now. I have a Denon a110 so Im thinking about this turn table with a 103 stylus. I don't know if it's going to be clearer than a Rega P1. I guess it should 😂😅
@@2HatHudders as with most things audio… it depends…
I think that there are aspects of my older TT that may be a little more refined. But when i had them both hooked up for comparison I preferred the Denon overall. Not necessarily better, but very different from my clearaudio.
More lively, punchy and timing was better to my ears.
Hope you can find one to hear
@@PackPeelPour yes, it's certainly a little daunting when looking at individual tone arms, and plinths etc. I am not going to rush this. Just take my time with the upgrade.
Nice looking deck. I went with the Technics SL1500c a few years back, and have no regrets.
Hi Steve! Thanks for the review. You've gotta get a Technics SL-1200 GR2 now for comparison as the price is close to the Denon DP-3000NE
Does Steve even do honest A-B comparisons?
Love the quality and design of this denon I really do, but after years of auditioning high end tables ive learned that there comes a point of diminishing returns, meaning to say after you silenced all the vibration, installed the best quality cart, cables, tonearms, tweaks etc. it still gets down to just a needle in a groove and when you start getting into thousands of dollars to spin your records on whats essentially at its core 110 year old technology youre still going to hear surface noise of some degree etc - of course the technology has improved by leaps and bounds in this time but beyond a certain point theres nothing left to gain no matter how much exotic wood, heavy platters and jewel-esque cartrdidge design you throw at it. I just feel at some point after all the technology has been exhausted when you keep going up in price now youre just paying for image, exotic woods, NASA grade motors, high end $$$$ needles that only last so many hours before needing replaced at the cost of hundreds of dollars etc etc etc. until youre at the point of having to spend insane amounts of money to obtain any more real sonic improvement. I have to admit when I see the insane forty fifty sixty grand table setups from europe I feel like im now looking at modern art - even a $10,000+ Rolex watch with all its beautiful work isnt as accurate as a good $50+ digital watch these days.
The Denon is relatively cheap, so what are you on about?
The Denon DP-51F I bought new 40 years ago still runs flawlessly. I've changed cartridges a few times, but I never felt the need to replace the DP-51F. If I ever need a new turntable, Denon would be my first choice.
I've had a Denon DP-62L for more than 40 years, it's been incredible! This looks like a worthy successor. Thanks Steve!
Yours Denon is 100 much better than this one "made in china " project !
@@stjepanivankovic2827 Psst.. Lots of great stuff comes out of China factories.... Apple, IBM, HP, Dell etc etc...
Denon DP-62L had a W&F of 0.008 and Technics SL1200 Mk II well, exaggerated their claim and it was 10% worse until the new SL1200 G came out and wow, yep. +0.03 and -0.5. Right. It's always interesting to hear some new stuff but many Technics buyers just like the brand you know?
You're telling me this turntable is made in China and not Japan
You never had that turntable for 40 years recapped at all amazing
Sold my 1200gae when moved to a smaller house; now using a SL-100c with a Denon 103r and honestly I am very happy with it and that is all I need.
Steve, you just cost me $2500! LOL Placed my order after watching this video.
It would be interesting to know when the CD was issued and mastered. I love analog as well but find well mastered digital to be very dynamic and musical. I have digital versions of recordings that sound far better than the vinyl version and in other cases the vinyl wins. Mastering is everything when it comes to sound quality and trumps playback medium every time when it comes to what you hear at the end of the day.
The CD Steve showed was from the Columbia Jazz Masters series issued in and around 1991. Normally older CD's can sound pretty good due to low compression, but this particular series was notorious for sounding muddy, lifeless and just not great. In terms of On The Corner, Columbia has released several better sounding CD and SACD versions since then. They would have made a better comparison.
I completely agree, it's all about the mastering/recording.
CD is technically superior to vinyl, when properly mastered it should sound far better than the vinyl release.
I'm an audio engineer by trade and have had the privilege of hearing the very best digital systems and in regards to faithfully reproducing recorded sound even the very best analog tape machines fall short and it's not even close.Analog can add a pleasing color to drums and electric guitars via tape compression and saturation but this can easily be emulated in digital audio work stations using harmonic saturation and transformer modeling software plugins within the DAW. This is not to say that a 2" muli track tape machine can't sound amazing but it accomplishes that in part due to its technical and mechanical limitations and not because it's a superior format for sound reproduction. Almost all modern recordings are digitally mastered these days and the vinyl records that end up in the hands of the consumer are compromised significantly compared to the original digital master in regards to audio quality. On the other hand take the best turntable and cartridge set up on Earth and record it digitally through professional converters at 24/96k and even the most gifted golden ear analog fan would not be able to pick it one from the other in a blind test. I enjoy listening to both analog and digital music but I'm under no illusion as to analog being technically or musically superior by default as is often echoed in the audiophile community. I'm a recovering audiophile myself so I'm subject to change my mind on this topic at any time. 😁😁😁
Frustrating if true, major fail by reviewer@@morgolus4413
Would love to see a review on that JC3+. Also, a hidden feature of the 1500C and 100C is an auto stop to compliment the auto lift. The auto lift switch has to be off, then press and hold both speed switches while turning the auto lift switch to on. Release the buttons. Now choose the speed you want. When playing your record and the arm auto lifts, the platter will stop at the same time. This also activates a 20 minute auto power off. If you turn off the auto lift you have to go through the entire procedure again to get it back.
Great tip, I'll give it a try. I had to recalibrate my auto-lift from factory, to accommodate records with a small runout - a great feature to have, and it works flawlessly.
@@annemickelson2621 I think most have had to do that. The only thing I don't like is the 1 minute delay to activate anything now.
It actually supports 78 rpm - you can select 78 rpm by pressing the Speed button while also pressing the START/STOP button
Yeah but on the hum side ... I found you know, some amplifiers had what was known as double insulated status, some had a ground for the cartridge Earth but there's what we call a 'ground loop' issue and some you know ... North American ... amplifiers need a separate ground wire or else if we touch the face and then inadvertently put our other hand on an earth point like a hot water radiator, then we're toast. But in the US, it's only 110AC. The problem is with tube amplifiers that step up the voltage to 450 dc.
I wonder if it does 45 rpm
And the next question is,,,who actually listens to 78's???????
@mccarthyd6603 my dad did! And that was 60 years ago
@@mccarthyd6603 I do and I’m 21
Two things I test in a turntable: Congestion and groove noise.
Cheap tables blur an orchestra on a crescendo. Horns become a mass of noise. Strings are not individuals but just a blur of noise. Cheap tables sound congested. You didn't discuss the congestion factor. Hmmm.
As for groove noise listen in between tracks to the groove going by. A cheap table will amplify that noise. Perhaps even add a bass-y rumble due to a noisy bearing. But definitely reveal the whoosh and grinding sound of the groove going by. An expensive table with a great arm will suppress that noise and perhaps place it outside the speaker boundary to remove it from the soundfield. You did not discuss how bad the Denon is or compare its groove noise to your Technics.
The new Denon tone arm has a rubber separator halfway up the arm to allow it to shake and wiggle. On old tone arms that used this de-coupling approach the idea was to make the arm dampen the stylus vibration to produce cleaner audio. But over time the rubber wears out and the arm droops. A lot of old rubber mounted arms are worn out due to this construction. I am avoiding the Denon for that reason. No mention of this in your review.
Not a great review, Steve. At least in my opinion you didn't discuss these important issues and sort of just said 'The Denon is a swell turntable." Not very insightful. Ha!
Thanks for noticing its release but I doubt your review brought clarity to this particular subject. Oh well...
Generally most of his reviews are for people who don't know any better. For mass consumption. And eyeballs.
You won’t live long enough for that tonearm to droop even infinitesimally due to deterioration of that rubber separator. I have a vintage Denon arm from the early 80s that is father to this new arm, and it’s still straight as an arrow. You might better question whether it’s a good idea.
Technics makes the SL-100C and the SL-1500C-K which both look like the 1200/10 but without the pitch control.
Not expensive enough for audiophiles
@@Robertocamero785 What about the SL-1000R?
Those are entry level turntables, not even close to the 1200G.
So if you're looking for something on the level of GR or G, there's no alternative offered by Technics.
Thats a beast@@mrglasses8953
I’m on DP-3000NE number 2 and it looks nice but my Technics SL-100C is likely to be the keeper.
Probably the closer comparison would be with Techincs ' newly released SL-1200 GR2 at about $2200 with it's upgraded speed monitor & control system . The Denon is gorgeous !
there's no comparison of Technics to Denon. Denon should be $600 turntable. The Technics overpriced as well shouldn't be more than $1700
I had the 1220gr ii. I also have two Kuzma tables. It wasn't close to them but it also wasn't as good as an old pioneer 550.
@@SPINNINGMYWHEELS777 Great response, with ZERO actual facts.
@@puciohenzap891 my response is based in fact I do not need to convince the ignorant, I'm in no argument here.
@@SPINNINGMYWHEELS777 Definitely not possible to offer a turntable with such a tonearm for 600 bucks, despite the motor being just a generic Hanpin one.
It's the tonearm that makes this one stand out from other Hanpin turntables.
Just the tonearm would probably already go for 600 bucks if they'd sell it separately.
I totally agree with the looks of both turntables. I definitely prefer the Denon!
If this Denon was available 2 years ago when I purchased my Technics I definitely would have gone for the Denon. It’s gorgeous.
Curious as to why and which Technics you would have passed on ?
@@ptg01 SL-1200 50 years anniversary limited edition
@@ptg01very depending on which technics sl he has bought I guess. The later "cheaper" models are barely worth the comparison and definitely not the money. There are cheaper turntables that are just as good. (I speak about the Malaysian made sl models). The Japanese made technics turntables are still some of the best on the market. Unfortunately there is a big difference nowadays.
@@viderethevaccinatorfromhol7536 the DENON DP-3000NE is made in China not Japan but I’m not sure that matters.
I own a Denon DP-60L (bought new back in '79/'80) that still sounds great. Wondering how it compares with the DP-3000NE.
Edit: Well, 2 days after making this comment, my DP-60L crapped out. So I ordered the 3000NE, and so I guess I'll be able to answer my own question.
Well I should just say that Steve compares a vinyl record with a CD and ... well the CD gets the name of being lifeless. That figures because like tubes yo know a cartridge is a simple device where with a radio analog tuner like a Technics ST-S8, all these integrated circuits you know add up. But I'd say Steve's Mola Mola had some issues, there's a DXD Noise problem and these things have to be run-in and a good combination of equipment. The vinyl record is a easy fix by comparison.
I've waited a long time for this review ever since it was announced. Now I'm tortured ! I bought a Technics 1210GR right after you bought your 1200G. I also suffer from the same issues you have. I love the Technics in every way except for the DJ looks. It blew away the Thorens TD125 MKII/SME 3009 tonearm I was using. I love how the Denon looks, it looks like an Audiophile turntable. Now I'm debating selling the Technics for the Denon. It never ends!
Yeah, too bad Steve didn't have the Technics 1200 GR2 on hand to compare. I'm in the same camp, I don't care for the Technics DJ look.
Yeah but when we know Technics sound ... we know about Steve's sidekick Devon Turnbull. Devon puts 1200 MKII motors into wooden plinths - why? Because wood rings like a bell and it's a natural fabric, it's like a rever unit as is a thick rubber mat as the Denon sports. The non-resonant compound of Matsushita Electric always gave an artificial, dead sound quality, but in Discos, why nobody ever noticed, too loud to talk. But in Britain ... yep no audiophile 'in town or in dale', ever yet listened to a Disco turntable, Technics 1200G you know is Steve's ... way of saying that he likes Japanese imports. He's a Lexus LC500 guy at heart, but dreams of Ferraris.
Hey Mr. G. “It never ends”…. ain’t that the truth. Just dusted off the Ol’ Denon, (with same HO/MC Steve just showed), to tame the little Klipsch beasts Santa brought me. It’s never sounded better. But now there’s this new temping beauty? 40lbs, real wood, removable HS….Oh, yea. I’m staring my letter…”Dear Santa, I’ll be extra good this year”…🍻
Keep your Technics. The core-less motor is a game changer for direct drive. This Denon won’t compete sonically.
@@rotorfix Well core-less originated in the year 1973 with a German Dual TT. By the end of the 1970s there were a bunch of Japanese core-less turntables. You know the core-less motor is a red herring and you know back in the day I found one of the best TTs were Garrard LAB 80. There was something about these that just seemed to lift detail out of a record. British Empire stuff wow! But Technics you know ... core-less, it's a brand thing.
Oh c'mon! The Technics was the greatest thing since sliced bread before this, and now you can't stand the looks? And by the way, they do make turntables that don't have the DJ style, the SL-100C and the SL-1500C. I was recently considering the Denon, but went with the Technics SL-1200GR2 instead. But at some later date I might get the Denon because I do like it. That Tommy Guerrero album is great, and I have a couple more by him.
do you like the GR2? I am considering it over this Denon. Which pre amp phono and cartridge would you recommended with it? Tnx! :)
@@SuomiFinland78 T
Yes I like it but the DJ type features are really unnecessary for me. I think it depends on the looks you prefer since they are both fully manual. I'm running mine into my Yamaha A-S3200 integrated amp which has a very good phono pre-amp. Currently I have an Audio-Technica AT-VM95ML/H and AT-95C/H for LPs and 7" 45s, and for budget cartridges they are pretty good. I still use my TEAC TN-5BB turntable with an Audio-Technica AT-OC9XML moving coil since it is semi-auto with the stop/lift feature. You might want to check out the TEAC because it's very good too, although a belt drive. I wish my Technics (and the Denon) had that auto stop/lift as it is so nice. Good luck.
Steve do you know how much watching your episodes is a cure to the depression of what the world is going through. Your awesome
Love the look of the Denon.
Vintage Denon turntables were and are my favorite. Their specs are amazing and I've got a DP-45F that's been going strong since the mid 80s. I bought it for 180 bucks in 2006, fully automatic direct drive. Freaking great! Glad to see Denon stepping up their game.
Great review. You do a great job. Amd great choice in records. Being a 50 year old retired skateboarder I was pretty stoked to see you listening to Tommy Guerrero. He was one of the pioneers of street skating and a big time pro in the 80s. Took me by surprise to see you pull that record out. He's amazing. Didn't quite get his name right but that's ok. 😊
Thanks for clarifying this recording was by skateboarder Tommy G. I was wondering if this was him.
I used to have a DP 62L which was a lovely table.
I like the pitch control because it's great for play 78's which are often not at 78 rpm.
Have the 3000NE set up with an Audio Technica mono as I start out listening to LP’s bought before there were stereo LP’s. What great sound! So pleased that I bought it!
It’s a pity they don’t offer more colors, like walnut for instance.
Thanks for another interesting and engaging review! It would be nice to hear about upcoming reviews and interviews at the end of each episode.
keep up the good work Steve I remember in the 90s when you worked for Andy S. I just saw a ad from the stereo exchange. broadway NYC I use to go from the Bronx Up to Central ave hung out with stue from the listen room & marcel from Lyric in what plains you remember those days. I still have my Krell KSA150
This looks like one beautiful turntable. Exactly how i like them!
Unfortunately, i got no reason at all to get rid of my extraordinary 1980 23KG Japanese Pioneer PL70. If i was in the market for a new turntable, this would definitely go on my list. But it wouldn't be an upgrade for me now.
I have an old Pioneer that incredible also. I found it at a Goodwill years ago
I have other more modern turntables, but still have the Pioneer PL-707 that I purchased new in the mid-1980s. It still sounds great with a Denon DL160 MC cartridge.
Great review Steve and thanks again for including my humble system.
Steve, what is your problem with DJs . Thee first DJS were thevbiggest audiophiles the story was There in NYC . Look after David Macuso and Nicky Siano.. the SL-1200 stunnning looking turntable
Love your new look but mostly, your authenticity! That's what keeps me coming back to your videos. Steve, you're simply the Best! I wish you a wonderful, healthy and happy new year!
The Technics speed slider allows musical folk who want to play along with a recording to synchronize their pitch which is a very useful feature.
ironic people listening to music may not be 'musical' ?? lol - most modern records since the 1950s are pretty accurate to proper pitch - some exceptions though of course and done for various reasons. when Vari-pitch came out for tape machines in the studio - it essentially is the first 'auto tune' but was used to stretch and pitch vocals so many of those aspects (like robert plants voice) can never be properly rectififed as it would clash with the music and now can be 'properly pitched' in digital software but since the package was a whole and not seperate parts (Led Zeppelin) no one really cares if it's on pitch as the band didn't have that intention . LOL
@@SPINNINGMYWHEELS777I believe what he/she meant by "musical people" was folks who play instruments along with the records....
My Life In the Bush of Ghosts! When I saw that label, my mind went right to that record, so I backed up your vid and paused it to read the title, and sure enough! LOVE that album, musically and sonically. Thanks for your channel.
I was about to be mad after getting my Technics 1200GR until I heard the price. Now happy with my purchase 😊
Still have my DP-62L with a Shure V15 Type IV cartridge. Owned Since 1987 and still sounds great.
Amen on the whole pitch control/DJ aspect. I am an ex-DJ of several decades and always used Technics 1210’s. I know those decks inside out and how they sound but have never liked them (or their modern iterations) in my two-channel listening system. I really don’t want a turntable where part of the production budget incorporates a pitch control. I have been saying for some time that Technics need a deck between their 1500 and SP-10 with no pitch control. This Denon seems to fit the bill in many ways, would love to see a review with this matched with their DL-301 cartridge.
Btw. I do have a pair of Denon VL12 Prime turntables in my studio which are great DJ decks if you want high quality audio playback.
An acrylic Platter will change its sound quite a lot compared to the sodt one it comes with.
Bought Technics SL-1200GR2 and not gonna give one more cent for turntable. I`m happy with that no matter what YT say. I will only invest in new cartridge and cable if need.
your review is fantastic - I like the words you use and how you pass on the feelings about these 2 turn tables - this comparison is all I needed to hear !
They need to re-release the DP-47F! That’d be cool!
"it looks like a DJ turntable"! Steve, you must see the irony in that statement. The old Technics SL-1200 had been in production for years, to the point where sales had fallen off. So what kept it in production? DJs discovered the rugged build, stable drive, and ability to withstand "scratching" torture. So their demand kept it in production. This design was not influenced by or directed to DJs, it was a home audio table adopted by DJs.
Now I understand it has commonly (if unfortunately) come to be known as a DJ table. For that I agree it could have been better for Technics to redesign the new models. However that didn't prevent me from buying a SL-1200G. And I've found that slider control to be useful a couple of times when the recorded speed sounded a little off. How many other current tables provide that benefit? ;^)
Thanks for that, I was going to mention the same thing, Technics have pretty well always had pitch controls long before DJ's were a thing!
I decided that I wanted to try a direct drive turntable...and I went back & forth between this Denon, the Music Hall Stealth & The Technics SL-1210GR.
Ultimately, I went with the Music Hall Stealth because I got a fantastic deal on an open box unit from a reputable seller (Safe & Sound). I added a linear PSU, a 3mm Funk Firm Achromat, an Ortofon 2M Bronze, a Michell Engineering Record Clamp & A Pro-Ject Tube Box S2 phono preamp.
I'm pretty happy w/ my choice, but I don't think I would have been let down with any of the 3 'tables I was considering. This Denon is the best looking of the 3 imho. I really think it's a great looking turntable.
I'm considering the Black Ice Audio Fusion9 MKIII phono preamp next. The little Pro-Ject Tube Box S2 is a solid piece of kit, but I really want a full component sized phono preamp for some reason.
Of course, Denon does this right after I purchased my Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO! But I'm actually very happy with it.
I'm not into the vinyl anymore, hauling it up and down stairs during a move got to be old as I did the same. It also became more and more challenging to store in a small condo and with a small child who displayed a curious tendency to want to "explore" I was concerned about the possibility of my vinyl and CD's toppling. I went full digital. I owned the DP-55K fully automatic turntable back in the 80's which I mounted a Grace 707-MKII tonearm on along with their Grace F-8/L cartridge, later going with a Grado MC cartridge. It was a beautiful Rosewood table which initially needed the logic board replaced TWICE and had to go to Japan so I was without for several months but once finally repaired it was just wonderful for many years before I sold it. I added an Audio-Technica arm lifter along the way, the whole set-up costing me just $485 purchased directly from a dealer representative after showing the table at the Chicago Audio show. This new table looks nice enough but TWO Grand? WOW!
Thank you so much for the review and recommendation. I just replaced my Schiit Sol with the DP-3000NE. Wow, you weren't kidding about it being quiet. I had a Denon DL-103 low output MC cart I couldn't really use on the Sol (too noisy). But I mounted it on the DP-3000NE and it can handle the extra gain from the phono stage with no problem. Also I am noticing excellent separation and sound stage; better than the Sol. Thanks Steve
That's great, enjoy!
I owned quite a few Denon Turntables in the late 70's and 80's. I know you know those great turntables were made in Japan by Denon's parent company Nippon Columbia. I have long since left the I really care what it looks like camp and moved over to the how good does it sound camp. The only way I will part with my any of my Technics SL-1200's (GR and modified MK 7) is when I sell them for the G's. Like the cap...
There’s an opening in the market for a direct drive fully automatic and i’m a bit disappointed that this didn’t take that spot :( Many other options for direct drive manual
fully automatic means SUCK
@@SPINNINGMYWHEELS777 I have a Dual 721 Direct Drive turntable, top of the line, made in Germany 1980. Weighs over 20 pounds. I mounted an Ortofon 2M Black on it. It sounds 97% as good as my Linn LP-12/Ittok/Troika. It gets used (and enjoyed) far more often than the Linn BECAUSE IT’S FULLY AUTOMATIC!
As a dance/electronic music fan, I like the look of the technics as it feels 'right' to me. Even though I have no aspirations to DJ with vinyl.
This Denon should be compared to the SL-1200GR2 imo.
Love your stuff Steve! Happy and healthy new year.
I’ve always wanted a Denon DP-59L. But, being as this one is modern, I may have to look into this one.
You look like a DJ with that hat on. Show us your scratching skills DJ Steve.
I still use DP-6000 turntable with DL-1000A Moving Coil cartridge (0.8g miraculous stylus pressure!), passed on to me by an old friend. Original DP-3000 was a household name for Japanese audio mania in 70s. Attaboy! to the engineer who gave another birth to this historical machine.
I have an 100v japanese M08 Denon turntable.
It has hydraulic anti skate and tonearm pressure knobs at the base of the tone arm.
This sounds better than my old technics ever did and is direct drive.
Finally, we get a truly high-quality audiophile quality direct drive turntable. I've always preferred direct drive over belt drive because you don't have to deal with replacing the drive belt every so often and a properly-engineered direct drive turntable has extremely low rumble. Anyone who remembers the Dual 701 note that it was (arguably) a quantum leap forward in turntable technology when it appeared in 1973.
Next time I’d suggest to compare vinyl with a high quality sacd/dsd version of the recording. CD is an outdated digital medium in terms of what’s available in digital today. Thank you for your review!
When I first saw a picture of this turntable 5 months ago, I said to myself: "this is the new direct drive against which all others will be judged around this price point for the foregoing future." Like you, I hate the "DJ" look of other Direct Drive Turntables but this model, at least to my eyes, harkened back to the great days of Denon in the 80's. Yes, some of their models with those Servo Controlled Arms which are now almost impossible to service, are dinosaurs. But when they just got down to basics, there was nothing that could beat a basic Denon Direct Drive design. Now you are putting it through its paces and liking it. Expect a price increase as demand goes up.
I still have a Denon DP 60L that produces wonderful music for over 40 years.
One can not beat the build quality of the vintage direct drive Denons.
My Denon DP 3000 NE sounds better than my Technics SL 1200 GR, in both cases with Denon DL 103 Standard. But the issue with my Denon: Tone arm installed at an angle, to the left. I have to use only Headshells, which are able to correct Azimuth with a screw on top. Like Ortofon LH 4000.
Thank you. You rock! Cheers from the South Carolina Lowcountry!
At last I have heard this turntable. At the Sydney hifi show connected to Classe top shelf electronics and B&W Matrix 802....completely ruthless speakers. Even compared to another $15000 turntable I was very impressed. I run a DP80 motor with Denon arm. Even at $5000 in Australia it's a good buy. The Technics is great too. Either way you could buy and set and forget for 20years . Then you can focus on cartridge and phono stages. Technics should bring back the Sl120....as you know it's the original 1200 as a motor unit. I run one with an SME3009 and a basic mofi cart...a very good unit. Yes indeed about the cd compared to records....jump factor is important. On a one million dollar system I heard this comparison and you are 100% right Steve. Very few reviews of this turntable.
I just got my Dp3000ne, in the past I have had technics 1210mk5, but I sold it because of the big difference in favor of a thorens td2030 that I still enjoy among other turntables like rega P10, thorens td160hd and linn lp12 selekt level wich is the best I have (way more expensive (6x) than Denon). I also listed several technics sl1200G in stores and friends houses, all of them sounds a little bright to my taste. I haven’t heard dp3000ne against 1200g directly but the Denon sounds to me more warm, with better midrange presence and more relax presentation without any trace of brightness, also the tonearm adjustment’s in the denon is far superior to any turntable I ever own, antiskating is great and very easy to setup, same with tracking force, but the best is the VTA, you can make adjustments while the disc is spinning, that is fantastic. So far I just can recommend the denon over any new technics, specially because I can hear music the entire day without any fatigue. Well done Denon!
Love the look ! Apparently the centre puck is for "doughnut records" with a large hole, not a record weight ! For me I just wish it had an auto stop function otherwise it gets a big thumbs up!
You are absolutely right... He made a "fool of himself." The user's manual (PDF) is easy to obtain.
That's a little harsh ! Steve does good work !besides he was having a Bad hair day :)@@michaels3003
Your use of and quantity of adjectives in this video to describe sound is mind blowing..
I'm from the 70's vintage era where tonearm automation was an essential component of the enjoyment and relaxation process. All my current 13 turntables except one (McIntosh MT-10) will take care of these auto duties, so it just seems weird that this feature was an unpopular option. Not only that but these newer models seem devoid of innovative engineering and Avant guard style. When asked what accounts for the difference in sound between the Denon and Technics there seems to be universal acceptance that if it sells for a higher price then logically the performance has improved. Balderdash!!!!
The DP3000NE is the most expensive deck on my audio wishlist. If my 40+ year old Denon DP2550A / Micro Seiki MA505 ever gives up the ghost it is the one I would probably buy as a replacement.
I finally managed to save up for one of these and it is a spectacular turntable! Definitely everything I hoped it’d be.
What cartridge are you running?
Steve Thank you for posting.
Happy new year Steve 😊👍 nice TT
Steve, you couldn't wear your Waldo shirt today? Perfect match with hat.
Wow...lotta gatekeepers in this comment section. Anyway... nice review. Three years ago a good friend gifted me a brand new Denon DP-1100 in the box. 1982 maybe? Some Hi-Fi store went out of business in the mid 80's and he got to choose a few things from non sold inventory. The plastic sheeting was still on the dust cover. He recapped it and aligned the tonearm gimbal. I put an AT-95 cart on it (I'm not into the details...it's the orange one) and it sounds fine to me. Use what you like and like what you use I guess.
I’m looking at this turntable Steve, 2 grand ish here in the UK.
My brother has the 4 grand limited edition Technics 1210 and I was surprised how good direct drive sounded, but likewise to your self the DJ look kinda put me off. Great review btw.
Beautiful turntable but i really love my SL-100c i bought last year. I use the AT OC9XSL and the Denon A110 anniversary cart and both sound wonderful. I've never auditioned the Denon but i have an awesome table and saved enough to purchase alot more great vinyl.
Steve, A pitch control is for records that are off pitch, the 1200 BECAME a dj turntable, it was not made as one. get the "DJ turntable" out of the vocab, it's a TURNTABLE that DJ's used because it is VERY well made. Old Dual turntables also had pitch controls on them and DJ's don't use those.....
I don't get how the LP sounds so different from the CD - unless the LP is from the early 70's it would be mastered from the same digital source as the CD. Denon themselves brought in digital recording to the studio in 1977. No disrespect intended as new to your channel - was just wondering how it could sound so different as you mentioned, the only reason I can think of is that LP had a much better master engineer to the CD. I do love the feel and texture of vinyl - from the process of loading the music to the fact that you are drawn to stop messing with it and just enjoy the experience.
Well if you have perfect pitch or relative pitch then the Technics is the much more desirable piece. Didn't talk about resonances. Something that the Technics strives to conquer, where it look like the Denon doesn't strive to control those issues with just a common Aluminum platter. Why not compare the Denon to the 1200 G2.
Steve what do think of the new SL1200GR2, it’s close in cost to the Denon DP3000NE.
Just bought the 1200gr2 and I love it
How can you go wrong now that they use Delta Sigma Drive? It got rid of the noise (cogging) that they had removed with coreless design in the previous model. Eliminating the cogging they did not have in the original back in the day model.
Denon used to use linear motors for their top ttbles. As did Technics in the SP10 and some Kenwoods.
The Absolute Sound's Michael Fremer compared two megabucks turntables. Belt drive Airforce 3S and direct drive OAM K3. Same armed and cart moved between them. You can hear the comparison. Every comment preferred the lower cost belt drive.
I think the OMA is a direct drive
@@theomindschrddr7983 Yes and more expensive than the belt drive AF3, but everyone said it did not sound as good.
Great product and review but to call it 'affordable' at $2,500 is a bit of a stretch.
Thanks, I bought it and I like it. The Ortofon 2M Black is a perfect partner to it. It doesn’t reach in quality and sound the Technics 1200G that I‘m owning too, but it looks very sexy. In my opinion a great buy!. As far as I know, the electrical drive is supported by Technics. A great choice by Denon.
Da Capo on the turntable makes me want to put it on my Music Hall Stealth.
Steve, I'm sure you know that you can stack the best dac on the digital side but if the mastering on the particular CD is not good enough, then it doesn't matter.
Hy Steve, nice review. I have a SL1200-G since last week. I am not happy. Mine has a lot of "bearing free play" in the spindle. I can easy hear a "clack-clack" noise and see the spindle move when I push alternating down the platter at 3 and 9 o'clock position. Does yours also have that behafiour? Regards, Markus
Excellent review....Two observations:
1/ The table Does Not have an Ebony Wood Veneer wrap....the top surface is a thin sheet of metal, probably aluminum with an anodizing process that has a stimulated look of Ebony.....I realize Denon is advertising it as having an Ebony Wood Veener....unfortunately it doesn't...The sub structure does have MDF, and thats where most of it generous 41 pounds comes from.
2/ If you want to improve the sense of dynamics and energy just swap out the rubber mat for something different...Funk Firm comes to mind, I personally gravitate toward a rounder, tonally denser sound, so wouldn't change the mat....by the way I do own the Denon 3000NE...
It's a seriously good table and an over performer at it's current price.
I had been curious about the Denon turntables. One of the key features I look for in a turntable is atleast auto-stop or auto-return. The DP-3000NE has neither. Looking at it's direct drive, it is of the old-fashioned technology which has been known to have problems with cogging. It doesn't even have pitch control. I have run across records where the speed is slightly off. It drives me up the wall. With a pitch control, that is easily taken care of. I don't think that Technics has anything to worry about. The whole point of the current SL-1200 G and GR was to address the cogging issue.
My daily driver, which uses the older DD system is a Technics-built MCS-6700, which is fully automatic and also is a stacker. I use it for digitizing records and while I am recording, should I be sidetracked, which happens often, I don't have to worry about the stylus running in the locked runout groove until I remember it. The recording program keeps running, but it is easy to chop off and trim the recorded file. If they made one that fit professional TT's, an auto lifter could be added on.
You are asking for features that are found on cheap tables. Not on serious stuff.
@@dockausik I am looking for features present on most Professional and well-respected turntables.
Sure, some of the cheapest turntables are belt-driven and have auto-stop. Why not have auto-stop, they connect the switch which starts the turntable to the tone arm, why not have it stop the turntable too.
Just because a turntable looks like it was made out of spare parts in somebody's garage nor a turntable which is an exercise in art, make it a superior turntable. Many of these kinds of turntables ignore advances made in turntable design decades ago.
Look at what the people who make the audiophile records we buy use for quality control, comparisons and ultimate listening. Many use the Technics SL-1200 series or it's clones. A popular cartridge they use is the Shure M97xe with an original Shure stylus.
Look at what Chad Kassem uses, a pair of Technics SL-1200G's with the Shure cartridge.
Out of curiosity, I need to take a look at one. Admittedly, I still like DJ turntables (with all their “toys”) for my needs.
Not so sure about the "affordable" part, but I love the look and spec of the Denon.
Best wishes to all, from Scotland.
Jim🏴🙂
Steve, the “record weight” is actually used for playing 45’s.
This new Denon is a Gamechanger!
Hi, Steve, thanks for the review. I am deciding whether to buy the Audio -Technica AT-LP1240-USBXP turntable versus the Denon DP-3000NE. I can afford either, but I am dismayed that for the price the Denon DP-3000NE does not include: (1) a built-in amplifier and (2) a USB port, yet the AT-LP1240-USBXP has both for $599.99. To get the same features for the Denon, I need to buy a Denon PMA-1700NE amplifier with USB, at $2,099.00, the Denon DP-3000NE goes for $2,499.00. The Denon equivalent is $4,598 vs the A-T for $599.00. Is it really worth the expense? I can afford the Denon equipment equivalent, but cannot justify it, just yet. Will Denon ever include the preamp and USB, both in a future upgraded version of the DP-3000NE? Take care and be well.
Interesting review and comparison, Steve. Just wondering which cartridge seemed to be the best match with the Denon? Perhaps, a ranking? And, did you use the the best matching cartridge with the Denon in your comparison to the Technics? Thanks
That is quite the ensemble you’ve pulled together for yourself in this video Steve, lmao.
Really interesting. I used to own a Denon DP2500 (DP2000 motor in there own affordable plinth) The arm was Ok but not great the Motor was superb - the Matt let it down a little making it sound a little bloated - So I had a different mat and an RB300 fitted. After that died I had a Gyrodec for 31 years but now have a SL1200G The 1200 G is the best deck so far and reminds me sometimes of the DP2500 . The mat is OK but I have changed that for an Achromat which tightened up the sound a lot. 2 AT EV33's one EV and one PTGii with a Nag MP200 as a back up Using Jelco MG headshells this is a great combination. In my case I was surprised to find I used the Speed control on Gerry Rafferty City to City as the record is slightly fast. I am more than happy with the SL1200.. BUT had the Denon DP3000NE come to my attention a year or so earlier I could easily have gone with that and also been satisfied it would seem
"alive" "magic" that's it. If you haven't listened to a good analog system, you have no idea. Thank you, Steve.
In the end, what is recommended in terms of stability and noise-free turntables, Denon or Technics?
AVSotD: Really like that set-up, though the TV is so small.
Thank you. It's just that my speakers are so big. : )
That is why I purchased the Technics SL 1500C because it did not have all of that DJ crap on it, I am not really satisfied with the 1500C, so I will move up to the SL-GR2 or the Denon DP-3000NE. I guess it is cheaper for Technics to continue to make turntables in that same old mold.
Kind of crazy when you call that an affordable turntable
I agree. It's very easy to buy many models of classic Denon and Technics turntables for a much lower price. Many of these hold up very well and most of us will enjoy them just as much as this nice choice.
Um mit einer CD den warmen Klang einer LP zu erreichen, braucht es geeignete CD-Player! In meinem Fall ist das der Tube-CD-Player LUXMAN DZ-07!
Couple of thangs…
Technics is $2k more because it’s made in Japan, Denon made in China so I’m told. I’ve been waiting for this denon, looks so good
Tommy Guerro was a super stylish pro skater boarder of the famous powel peralta team. His music reflects his style, so smooth sweet moves and tricks.
Denon produces great quality equipment, I have surround sound system , very good and was What HiFi best award some time back, great video Steve , regards Mark
Not crapping on your gear but what hifi has the worst rating system of all time.
Read into why