The "review" of "what exactly"? Did you ever see a product reviewed in this video, handled by this man? There are many reviewers that "review" audio products, but with no product in sight next to them, nor photos or videos showing they REALLY handling the product … how do we know their "reviews" are not works of fiction? They may be making it up as they go.
Steve, yet another engaging and informative review without a trace of snobbery. I first discovered you on cnet and remain impressed by your approach --good audio doesn't have to break the bank.
I have to thank you - after searching around for several years, I finally have a simple/fun system (U-turn Orbit Custom Turntable with Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge, Denon PMA-600NE, KEF LS50 Meta speakers + Kube8 sub (sub is the weak link). I now have a FUN system to listen to and am enjoying vinyl all over again. The cornerstone was this amp - thanks for helping me get back into audio without breaking the bank!
You have a gifted ear and great knowledge of sound. Your reviews are straight and easy to understand. You praise the quality of sound irrespective of price !
Ive just got the above amp and DCD600NE CD player,ive got the amp driving two acoustic 3050 speakers. Im a heavy metal fan and the sound quality of the different genres of metal is excellent,as each genre from power metal to death metal has different tones etc. The amp handles the tone changes very well,the bass and treble drivers also do their job well as you can hear the slight changes as you ajust bass and treble.
Awesome to hear that these two are great for metal! I listen to a very wide variety of music, but definitely a metal head in my heart. Thanks for sharing! About to pull the trigger on these two.
It's good that I read your comment, it's been hard for me to see someone with my tastes, I'll finally be able to buy something that I know will work with heavy metal and death metal, thanks.
It's great to see Denon scoring with their electronics! They consistently score with their DL-103 series of "broadcast" phono cartridges! Still selling strong after 50-plus years!
Thanks so much Steve! I don't know much about the audio world, but your channel makes comparing products and getting a solid idea of what I want to purchase easy.
No surprise. Just another reminder how so many of us overpay to chase the holy grail of sound for a 10-%15% jump in sound quality. Pair this amp with a pair with comparably priced speakers like Wharfedale, among others, and if you are not happy and can’t enjoy your music collection, something is very wrong. So much of high end audio is hype, with music playing second fiddle for many of us. Steve....Thanks for doing this review!
The "review" of "what exactly"? Did you ever see a product reviewed in this video, handled by this man? There are many reviewers that "review" audio products, but with no product in sight next to them, nor photos or videos showing they REALLY handling the product … how do we know their "reviews" are not works of fiction? They may be making it up as they go.
Audio does NOT have to cost a lot....Ive had hundreds of amps , high end and low end...as a gear head , my little vintage 6bm8 tube based 8 watt amp I'm using is the best amp Ive had.
Thank you I really needed to hear that! I'm a novice at home theater and hi-fi audio. I've been reading reviews and researching receivers, amps, speakers and what not; and my head is spinning. I WANT QUALITY but just can't make up my mind......sigh
@@KingLeo-nf3bj SMSL SA50 and a used pair of JBL ES20. That was my first proper HiFi. I still have it hooked up to my mum's TV. Sounds amazing when watching TV and listening to music on RUclips. The quality you can get for under 100 usd is wonderful. Steve even did a video on his favourite cheap setup, a Lepai and a pair of Polk Bookshelves.
@@VeerMaharaj Listen here even Steve will tell you a favourite doesn't mean best. Anyone pretending something they picked up for next to nothing or that some old vintage component is the best is either naive or lying. BTW if you're talking practical, pragmatic and truthful, then I am that person.
Great review of what seems to be a more than nice amp especially for the price. I liked the fact that you tried it with 3 different spkrs and gave your impressions of each. I agree that the LS50’s are a sexy set of spkrs. Thank you, Steve!
Cambridge Audio was blowing out their Topaz AM5 integrated for $100. Out of stock now but I got one and good sounding amps are more affordable than ever.
Cambridge, yeah it definitely sounds gorgeous but!... They're topaz CD player sucks when it comes to reading and playing CDs. And it frustrating coz the player sounds amazing but it cannot read CDs perfectly.
Big sigh... I’m starting a search to replace my 30 year old Denon DRA 635r. Kinda waffling with the idea of having it refurbished, but... Great review. So nice to hear Denon being talked about positivity again.
About 25 years ago. I bought a used Denon PMA 300V. I still have it. It has been a great little amp. No bells and whistles just a good 2 channel amp. I used it with a par of Optimus Mach II's. That little 60 watt amp would drive the Machs enough to irritate my neighbor's a few doors down.
During the COVID19 pandemic I was unable to audition gear, so I bought the LS50/PMA600NE solely on Steve’s recommendation. 3 months later and I can say it’s a super combo and I feel no burning need to upgrade anything. I will add a subwoofer to enjoy a fuller range (not thump), but I’m in no hurry. Thx for the tip, Steve!
@@hinsmeister Steve recently rated the Regia IO amp significantly better than the 600NE, so worth checking that out. ruclips.net/video/VmyvKtqA2Fo/видео.html
Hey Anthony, I'm seriously thinking about the pairing of LS50 with the pma600NE too : is PMA600NE really powerfull enough to drive LS50 correctly based on your experience ? Thank you for your help !
@@cestgratuit it’s easily loud enough for me but my room is small (10x12 feet). It can push the LS50s well above my comfort zone without distortion, I’ve measured it over 90db without distortion. On one of Steve’s other videos he compared the 600NE with either the Rega IO or the IOTA VX, I can’t remember which one. He says it has more detail and transparency allowing one to hear further into good recordings. In the UK, the IO, VX and 600NE were around the same price, just a shame I didn’t see that video earlier. That said, I’m still pleased with the combo and the IO is only 30W per channel, so you’d have to research if it has enough juice for you. The VX has the advantage of being upgradable with the SA3 or using a mono amp configuration, which would give you even more juice. I’ve moved on from the LS50/600NE with a more expensive main system, but I still use them in a different room. What I like is how they play brass instruments with a lot more sparkle almost bright, which my new system can’t do. That I’ve still kept the combo tells you I still like it enough. More important is the need for a subwoofer, which improves the soundstage and extension drastically. I bought a Rel T7i and it’s a marvellous combo with the LS50s and PMA600NE…I didn’t think I would ever move on from this setup, but I discovered that I generally prefer a more natural and balanced sound, plus I wanted to hear more of the depth, layering, and transparency that people talk about, which I interpret as me chasing realism, which the LS50s can’t do because it has a pronounced character that it imposes on the music…a character that I happen to like, but it’s unnatural.
I was about to give up on my LS50, I’ve tried a million amps(how it feels) last attempt was PS Audio Stellar stack(StellarGain Cell + s300), didn’t like it and waaaay to big. Then I watch this review again after buying the Edifier S3000PRO to replace them. So went down to the local shop and picked up the Denon, now I finally happy with the LS50. What an nice improvement over the Emotive BasX A100. Thank you Steve, keep rocking❤️
Denon /Marantz have always made some of the very best Hi-fi gear out their for decades now either buget or semi - high end. I own semi hi-end Denon /Marantz gear my self and have so for years. Iv never known Denon or Marantz to make any such "dud" gear to be honest. I use a reference SA-15S1 CD/SACD Player it's 12 years old now but Iv taken absolutely great care of it and it still sounds as good as the day I spent £1300 on it I also own Denon X4100W was 3rd from top model back in 2015. All wired up using awesome Atlas Cables... Anyways fantastic video as always peace ✌️ out from West - London UK 🇬🇧 🇬🇧 🇬🇧
I bought one (Amazon is the only place I could find). I've been looking for this since I got my Klipsch 600M's. It ticks all my needs: MM input (because I have a high output MC) 4 ohm power (in case I change speakers someday) Built in DAC (for streaming music, but I don't see a USB port. Will I still need my Modi?) Coax input (until I upgrade my CD deck) Remote control (my amp will be hard to access) Sub output (cuz I got one) Preamp outputs (for future honkin' amp... if they work with the volume control) Tone controls (because I like them, especially for some old poorly mastered vinyl) Bluetooth (maybe I'll use it, maybe not) Class AB (because I am not quite ready for class D due to distrust of component life) And, the price fits with the newer paradigm of audio of considerable quality but not bank-breaking cost. Right now, I'm looking at you, Denon CD deck. Why should I have to pay thousands for a "king's clothes" DAC?
Update - after a month: The Denon is doing it. The built in DAC is doing very well with my DVD (CD for me) drive using the SPDIF coax input. It is an obvious improvement over the player's built-in audio. The MM input is very quiet and works well with my Denon DL-110 high output MC cartridge. (I found this connection much better than the built-in preamp on the LP-120 turntable (which I otherwise like). I suspect an impedance matching issue with the LP-120 preamp. This Denon drives the RP600M Klipsch's easily to about 95 dB SPL (measured at 12 feet in a 16' x 34' x 17' carpeted space). Beyond that, musical peaks can get distorted on orchestral music. That's plenty loud enough. Lows below about 60 Hz are handled by an existing 400 watt 12" powered sub using the Denon's sub output. The sub extends to 22 Hz (-3dB), which nearly completes the widest acoustic instrument tonal range which goes to 16 Hz (C 0), the fundamental of 32' organ tone. (By comparison, C 1, the lowest fundamental of a string bass, is 32 Hz.) The Klipsch's are mounted on Pangea 28" stands, if that matters. So, the Denon amp is a keeper. I'm working to get streaming audio into the Denon with a Schiit Modi 3. The obstacle is getting the laptop reassigned from the office to the living room. It's a convenience thing. I'm seeking, maybe, a tablet solution to run the apps for Amazon HD Music and maybe Tidal, Qobuz, and feed the Schiit. The Denon has plenty of aux inputs. Total cost of the system is $1220 not including the cables and cartridge and subwoofer. It makes real music to my ears.
@@themartinlozano No go. I replaced it with an Emotiva A-300 and PT-100. Then, I replaced the RP600M's with Elac DBR62's. The only issue with the Denon was insufficient power. My living room is fairly large. It actually needs about 150 watts per channel. The Klipsch's and the Denon are sitting face down in the utility room. If I ever get around to it, I'll sell them both.
Hey Steve, I had a PMA2000R for 20 years and it drove every speaker I've owned (6) with ease and had an easy, forgiving, almost tubelike sound. I finally upgraded to a Marantz PM14 but the Denon amps will always be an easy recommendation for me.
Great heads up Steve. Always nice to hear about affordable gear that sounds great. Truth is, as long as the amplifier is capable of driving the load attached to it, most people wouldn't know the sound of a four hundred dollar amp from a four thousand dollar amp anyway. That's not to say there wouldn't be an audible difference. It's just that the vast majority of listeners, including the vast majority of self professed audiophiles who bemoan the raft of class D based amps hitting the market in recent years, simply wouldn't be able to reliably tell what output stage design a quality amp was using. Especially if they had to choose between five or six rather than just two. Preconceived notions and bias have a more profound effect on our decision making than we would like to admit. Again, I'm not suggesting there aren't differences in the sound of various amplifiers, DACs, CD players or even cables. But in a blind test can you actually tell the difference? If so, is it a good difference or a bad difference? And, if a good difference, is said difference worth the price to you or not?
A difference between $400 Denon and $4000 one is in few capacitors that lower high freq gain. This is well known way to "give a reason" of high prices in case of Denon.
Thanks for another great video. I am still using my Denon PMA-680 integrated amp daily since 1991. Never even serviced. I just added a Denon DRM-500 Cassette Deck from the same build year for $35. Love my vintage Denon system. Looking for a tuner next.
Interested to hear your thoughts on the Denon CD player, as recently bought one for my parents to replace their 20 year old unit. Keep up the great work Steve and the great shirts.
@@luch1535 hello! I ended up getting the PMA800, which is just a step-up or one series newer. 439€ on Amazon in Spain. Love it. I am not experienced with audiophile equipment but I am a audio engineer and music producer and I really enjoy listening to music on this set up. I’ve got my Technic 1200M3D (1999) and it’s great 👌 I also picked up the Denon network player which is great too. Integrates with Spotify in a better way then anything I’ve ever connected to. Not trying to sell you on it, but 100% satisfied with my new setup. 👌 let me know what you get and how it works for you. Cheers!
Great review as always Steve! Your Jonny Greenwood/"There Will Be Blood" discussion was right on point as well. I appreciate you highlighting the KEF's here. I hope you can review Totem's new line of speakers sometime and perhaps their new class D amp as well. My local dealer said they are waiting to sell out of the Totem Rainmakers before bringing in the new Totem Skylights. Here in Canada the Skylights look to be about 300 dollars less as well at about $1000 than the Rainmakers. If they are replacing the Rainmakers I am curious if they made some $1000 gems. If so, I might go with these for a dedicated music system I am going to build. I did a demo of the Kin Play powered speakers but found them a little sharp on the top (I am sensitive to metal tweeters sometimes) with my hard rock and metal albums. I was considering the LS50's, but they didn't seem to present my modern more aggressive music as well as it's other talents.
Thanks for the review. As the owner of a full early 90’s Denon setup it is nice to see that they continue to make quality gear. Look forward to the CD player review.
Yeah, except for that one amp they made in the early 90's that liked to catch on fire! For mass market stuff, though, they are one of the better sounding brands.
Cool, I've been using a Denon PMA-800NE (with a pair of P3ESRs) and wondered how it might stack up for you. $800 Canadian. I don't have a very big frame of reference, but I figured it was decent. Now I know it is.
I bought this amp just before the holidays then it promptly sold out everywhere. I just added the companion DVD player to replace my vintage one. So far I'm really liking it and so much more powerful than the succession of AV receivers it replaced. Waiting for the KEF LS50's to arrive that I ordered on the last day they were on sale plus some JBL Studio 530's that were also on sale. Time to audition new speakers to replace my Elac B6's which are nice but a bit lacking in certain areas for my tastes. My sub is an Elac Debut 2.0 3010 and I'm very happy with it. Thanks for the recommendations Steve!
Hi Steve, So, between the NAD C 316BEE V2, Cambridge Audio AXA35, and this Denon PMA-600NE, which is the best for the under $400 category? Which one is your "new" reference?
Denon always had fantastic Amps,i sell Denon for more than 24 years,and they´re are wonderfull value for money.the new Pma 2500 integrated is great a sounding amp.Remember the old Denon PMA 6600A or 4400a monoblocs??'back in 1994 i had two pair´s of 6600a with B&W 801matrix in bi amp configuration,and they destroyed a Krell KSA 250(wich was my amp in that time)and costed 10 times more.
I am amazed that this amp is 45/70 watts at 8/4 ohms and the PMA800-NE is 50/80 watts at 8/4 ohms. This is a high current bargain! Is the only difference that the 800 has both MM and MC cartridge inputs or are there other factors that would make one choose the more expensive amp?
The Denon PMA-800ne doesn't have bluetooth and no Subwoofer out, which I find kind of weird since it's the 600ne's bigger brother but has less options.
Japanese áudio is always very good for their price. I am using a simple Pioneer AV amplifier, nothing special... When I heard it at store I wasn't convinced and I was like "yeah... Tomorrow I will be returning it" but after arriving home, setting it up, let it calibrate withe MACC software and adjusting the cut off, it sounded very good, even with those basic AV kit speakers. I am sure a 5 or maybe 10 times more expensive Rega would sound better but for the price, the Japanese audio is amazingly good!
Dude. Thanks so much for the "There Will Be Blood" soundtrack recommendation. I saw the movie but did not give much thought to the score. It's incredible.
Hello Steve (from the french riviera) I like your channel mostly because of your unique background in the field, and this even if our musical tastes differ substantially (sorry but i don t like "the Man on the Corner Album by Miles Davis", but we agree on many other genres or recordings). Since you gave a very positive review on this entry level Denon integrated I would loke to see you giving some review of higher end Denon integrated like the PMA1500 and PMA2000 (there are like 4 versions of it) those are from the late 90 till recently. And then you could look at recent models like the PM$1600 NE or PMA 2000 NE or the top current model which is the PMA 2500NE. Denon also has a even more high end series, i think it is the PSA1*. More generally you could consider reviewing devices made in Europe, Japan or China and also consider reviewing old stuff, you do so when you give advices about what to get for XXX bucks. I understand that rating second hand devices is uneasy beacause you cannot get the item to test for free, but well the cmmunity could try to support that or since New York is such a big city you could get music lovers to leand you electronic devices for testing (for loudspeakers it would be harder). I m planning to go and listen in a few shops, but before doing that you should have an idea of what you want to hear.
Thanks! I've been hoping you were going to review this. I saw it briefly in the background of one of your other reviews. Would be interested in how it pairs with the Forte III's.
Denon 800 series is great for the money, 50w per channel amp @ 8ohms, no Bluetooth because there is a streamer to go with it, no sub out, but it doesn't need one, and to round it off there is a 800 series cd player, can have all 3 for around £1000 in the UK.
It was not mentioned, but I noticed the Denon printed on the front 3:11 the words.. "Advanced - High Current Amplifier." That may explain why it sounds so good.
I've talked to my local Denon supplier. Denon has invested a lot and really pushed their Stereo and Avr department. They are aiming at the top.. all from their basic stuff that now costs abit more to their more expensive gear.. Denon when good can be perfect. I would more focus on what music you dig and what speakers you want to pair. This review is consensus and approval of theyr efforts.
Thanks for positively reviewing what some would sneeringly call "mid-fi", Steve! Those people need reminding that good sound quality doesn't have to come at a high price.
I've got the Denon PMA 720ae, basically the same amp with a bit more power but no digital inputs, it's surprisingly good for £189, got it paired with mission mx4 floorstanders which I paid £169 for, yep I look for bargains, end of line stuff.
NICE , I had YAMAHA CA 1000 KILLER !!!! Old NAD nice too ! .....I sold most high end back in the day 70's & 80's those were the days !!!! Good spec on the NAD .....ROCK ON !
The PMA 800 NE is even less expensive because it's been on the market for a while. I would also like to see a review on the PMA 1600NE since it's also high current.
Steve Guttenburg, thanks for this review. This denon amp is definetly in my short list with the marantz p5005. I was hesitating between getting the denon with this analog mode(because i mostly listen to analog sources) or get the purely analog marantz amp. So my question is : what do you think about this analog mode on the denon? And how do you describe the sound of the denon for a jazz playback? Thank you. Peace from France
I know a recording engineer who swears by Denon gear. Having only a pair of output devices, they are fast and accurate, or so he says. He doesn't understand why they get overlooked as much as they do.
Could you educate me on the value of this ? Do other amps use multiple output devices to achieve the same level of power and hence less desire able ? Or is it just that only two channels so only two output devices ?
45w into 8ohm? I'd rather go with emotiva and buy a new one if it ever breaks. The one i bought second hand for $200 has been rock solid, even has a toroidal transformer inside. I ended up making my own amp with a 2 x 180W @ 8 ohm class-T amp with the Hifimediy T4 module and a high quality 600w SMPS. Sounds just as good as my monoblocks driving Tekton Lore S. The case of the amp stays at ambient temps, no noticeable heat.
I still have my old Denon PMA 25O II amp that I purchased years ago while I was in the UK. Nice bit of kit. The output specs don't sound impressive (25W x 2 into 8 ohms), but paired with my Mission 751s, it was more than enough for my needs.
Have the PMA-720AE with Denon speakers.. but using them mostly for Denon headphones D7200 they sound amazing. Great product and thanks for review. All the best.
I'm with you on the bass and treble knobs. I'm so sick of a TONE knob or, worse yet, a push button series of common tone settings that are supposed to fit any room...they don't. And I grew up in the late 60s and early 70s, so I'm use to having those basic controls. What the heck are the designers of (most) modern equipment smoking? Not to mention decent loud speakers...usually 3 way setups with a control on the back so that you can dial in the perfect top end (or whatever). I still have an old Pioneer 12 band stereo equalizer I used with my old rig. It doesn't see much use anymore, but I refuse to let go of it. I run my music through my PA rig now. All digital music with a stereo 31 band EQ that allows me to tweak the sound as I like. I know...it's not AUDIOPHILE quality, but I'm an old musician and my ears aren't so picky anymore and the EQ allows me to find the sweet spot regardless. It seems that PROGRESS isn't always moving forward (although I'm pretty sure that it has something to do with giving us less for more money. GREED! It's the American way).
I bet the DCD-600NE disc spinner will also be very good. I've had a Denon DCD-685 CD player for years and I assure you I'll only buy another one when it dies. Or when I can afford something in the 1000+ price range.
Being surprised it's so good "for the money" is not a REVIEW. But it's good to know this Denon exists, and I do appreciate the quick feedback from experienced ears. Good that it can drive a difficult load. Do you know if someone out there has actually reviewed it? I wonder how it would perform with horn speakers.
ShellstaX - The $1000 amplifier will be BELIEVED to sound better, even by those who have never heard it. In a true ABX comparison that belief may be hard to support. As long as we avoid doing ABX comparisons, we can hold onto our beliefs forever.
I have the 520AE, which is basically the 600NE without the DAC, and it’s an awesome amp. Just remember to press the “source direct” button (and “analog mode” button if you don’t use the DAC) ;)
Steve Guttenberg should win an audiophile industry "lifetime achievement" award.
Absolutely...
Thanks guys!
I vote for that!!!
Agree 100%
Agree!!!
I love seeing positive reviews on affordable audio gear.
Agree ! Because too often Audiofools think that affordable means necessarily bad sounding gear !
The "review" of "what exactly"? Did you ever see a product reviewed in this video, handled by this man? There are many reviewers that "review" audio products, but with no product in sight next to them, nor photos or videos showing they REALLY handling the product … how do we know their "reviews" are not works of fiction? They may be making it up as they go.
Steve, yet another engaging and informative review without a trace of snobbery. I first discovered you on cnet and remain impressed by your approach --good audio doesn't have to break the bank.
I have to thank you - after searching around for several years, I finally have a simple/fun system (U-turn Orbit Custom Turntable with Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge, Denon PMA-600NE, KEF LS50 Meta speakers + Kube8 sub (sub is the weak link). I now have a FUN system to listen to and am enjoying vinyl all over again. The cornerstone was this amp - thanks for helping me get back into audio without breaking the bank!
I bough it on Steve's recommendation and I can say that it drives my Magnapan mmgs fabulously.
I was thinking of getting one is it worth it ?
You have a gifted ear and great knowledge of sound. Your reviews are straight and easy to understand. You praise the quality of sound irrespective of price !
Thank you for the kind words!
Ive just got the above amp and DCD600NE CD player,ive got the amp driving two acoustic 3050 speakers. Im a heavy metal fan and the sound quality of the different genres of metal is excellent,as each genre from power metal to death metal has different tones etc. The amp handles the tone changes very well,the bass and treble drivers also do their job well as you can hear the slight changes as you ajust bass and treble.
Awesome to hear that these two are great for metal! I listen to a very wide variety of music, but definitely a metal head in my heart. Thanks for sharing! About to pull the trigger on these two.
It's good that I read your comment, it's been hard for me to see someone with my tastes, I'll finally be able to buy something that I know will work with heavy metal and death metal, thanks.
It's great to see Denon scoring with their electronics! They consistently score with their DL-103 series of "broadcast" phono cartridges! Still selling strong after 50-plus years!
Thanks so much Steve! I don't know much about the audio world, but your channel makes comparing products and getting a solid idea of what I want to purchase easy.
Great review. Really dig your approach and style, more from a listener's perspective instead of a sound engineer. Thanks for your valued insight!
I’ve got this amp hooked up to a pair of mission QX-2 speakers. For the all in cost the sound is incredible
Denon pma-501 integrated, one of the best looking and sounding amps I've ever owned.
Nice to see DENON STEPING up there game!!!.... Especially in the affordable audio world 👍
their
No surprise. Just another reminder how so many of us overpay to chase the holy grail of sound for a 10-%15% jump in sound quality. Pair this amp with a pair with comparably priced speakers like Wharfedale, among others, and if you are not happy and can’t enjoy your music collection, something is very wrong. So much of high end audio is hype, with music playing second fiddle for many of us.
Steve....Thanks for doing this review!
That's right.
More important to choose speakers. Speakers sounds quite different.
I purchased it and I love it, thank you Steve
Interesting review! Especially appreciate the three speaker comparison.
The "review" of "what exactly"? Did you ever see a product reviewed in this video, handled by this man? There are many reviewers that "review" audio products, but with no product in sight next to them, nor photos or videos showing they REALLY handling the product … how do we know their "reviews" are not works of fiction? They may be making it up as they go.
Great review. One of the best amps under $500
Just bought this amp last night. Looking forward to setting it up with my Prime Bookshelf speakers and SVS SB-2000 Pro subwoofer.
The combo of the Denon and the little KEFs with a REL sub would be about the best system you could listen to for the money.
Audio does NOT have to cost a lot....Ive had hundreds of amps , high end and low end...as a gear head , my little vintage 6bm8 tube based 8 watt amp I'm using is the best amp Ive had.
Thank you I really needed to hear that! I'm a novice at home theater and hi-fi audio. I've been reading reviews and researching receivers, amps, speakers and what not; and my head is spinning. I WANT QUALITY but just can't make up my mind......sigh
Then you haven't had any high-end amps at all.
@@KingLeo-nf3bj SMSL SA50 and a used pair of JBL ES20. That was my first proper HiFi. I still have it hooked up to my mum's TV. Sounds amazing when watching TV and listening to music on RUclips.
The quality you can get for under 100 usd is wonderful. Steve even did a video on his favourite cheap setup, a Lepai and a pair of Polk Bookshelves.
@@carlosoliveira-rc2xt Don't be that person.
@@VeerMaharaj Listen here even Steve will tell you a favourite doesn't mean best.
Anyone pretending something they picked up for next to nothing or that some old vintage component is the best is either naive or lying.
BTW if you're talking practical, pragmatic and truthful, then I am that person.
Great review of what seems to be a more than nice amp especially for the price. I liked the fact that you tried it with 3 different spkrs and gave your impressions of each. I agree that the LS50’s are a sexy set of spkrs.
Thank you, Steve!
Very enjoyable review of the so very affordable Denon and your playlist. Thanks, Steve!
Greenwood’s score for the Phantom Thread is also fantastic.
Will check that out thanks. Love that score for There will be blood.
Cambridge Audio was blowing out their Topaz AM5 integrated for $100. Out of stock now but I got one and good sounding amps are more affordable than ever.
Cambridge, yeah it definitely sounds gorgeous but!... They're topaz CD player sucks when it comes to reading and playing CDs. And it frustrating coz the player sounds amazing but it cannot read CDs perfectly.
you get to the point a lot faster than most reviewers- i like that
Big sigh... I’m starting a search to replace my 30 year old Denon DRA 635r. Kinda waffling with the idea of having it refurbished, but...
Great review. So nice to hear Denon being talked about positivity again.
I bought a Denon Pma 1510 ae 9 years ago. Its excellent . It powers my Imf Tsl50. Denon is underrated.
Yeah indeed have the 1520ae and love it really powerfull and great control.
Ordered one today. Very excited.
About 25 years ago. I bought a used Denon PMA 300V. I still have it. It has been a great little amp. No bells and whistles just a good 2 channel amp. I used it with a par of Optimus Mach II's. That little 60 watt amp would drive the Machs enough to irritate my neighbor's a few doors down.
Shirt pulls in greens, and brown earth tones to help me celebrate my amplifier of the past year. Love this one. The shirt I mean.
During the COVID19 pandemic I was unable to audition gear, so I bought the LS50/PMA600NE solely on Steve’s recommendation. 3 months later and I can say it’s a super combo and I feel no burning need to upgrade anything. I will add a subwoofer to enjoy a fuller range (not thump), but I’m in no hurry. Thx for the tip, Steve!
Just purchased some LS50's and was torn on what Amp to buy. Im probably gonna pull the trigger on the 600NE
@@hinsmeister Steve recently rated the Regia IO amp significantly better than the 600NE, so worth checking that out. ruclips.net/video/VmyvKtqA2Fo/видео.html
Hey Anthony, I'm seriously thinking about the pairing of LS50 with the pma600NE too : is PMA600NE really powerfull enough to drive LS50 correctly based on your experience ? Thank you for your help !
@@cestgratuit it’s easily loud enough for me but my room is small (10x12 feet). It can push the LS50s well above my comfort zone without distortion, I’ve measured it over 90db without distortion.
On one of Steve’s other videos he compared the 600NE with either the Rega IO or the IOTA VX, I can’t remember which one. He says it has more detail and transparency allowing one to hear further into good recordings.
In the UK, the IO, VX and 600NE were around the same price, just a shame I didn’t see that video earlier. That said, I’m still pleased with the combo and the IO is only 30W per channel, so you’d have to research if it has enough juice for you. The VX has the advantage of being upgradable with the SA3 or using a mono amp configuration, which would give you even more juice.
I’ve moved on from the LS50/600NE with a more expensive main system, but I still use them in a different room. What I like is how they play brass instruments with a lot more sparkle almost bright, which my new system can’t do. That I’ve still kept the combo tells you I still like it enough.
More important is the need for a subwoofer, which improves the soundstage and extension drastically. I bought a Rel T7i and it’s a marvellous combo with the LS50s and PMA600NE…I didn’t think I would ever move on from this setup, but I discovered that I generally prefer a more natural and balanced sound, plus I wanted to hear more of the depth, layering, and transparency that people talk about, which I interpret as me chasing realism, which the LS50s can’t do because it has a pronounced character that it imposes on the music…a character that I happen to like, but it’s unnatural.
I was about to give up on my LS50, I’ve tried a million amps(how it feels) last attempt was PS Audio Stellar stack(StellarGain Cell + s300), didn’t like it and waaaay to big. Then I watch this review again after buying the Edifier S3000PRO to replace them. So went down to the local shop and picked up the Denon, now I finally happy with the LS50. What an nice improvement over the Emotive BasX A100. Thank you Steve, keep rocking❤️
How did you find the S3000 Pro (active) speakers compared to the Denon LS50 combo ?
Thanks
JB
Denon /Marantz have always made some of the very best Hi-fi gear out their for decades now either buget or semi - high end. I own semi hi-end Denon /Marantz gear my self and have so for years. Iv never known Denon or Marantz to make any such "dud" gear to be honest. I use a reference SA-15S1 CD/SACD Player it's 12 years old now but Iv taken absolutely great care of it and it still sounds as good as the day I spent £1300 on it I also own Denon X4100W was 3rd from top model back in 2015. All wired up using awesome Atlas Cables... Anyways fantastic video as always peace ✌️ out from West - London UK 🇬🇧 🇬🇧 🇬🇧
I bought one (Amazon is the only place I could find). I've been looking for this since I got my Klipsch 600M's. It ticks all my needs:
MM input (because I have a high output MC)
4 ohm power (in case I change speakers someday)
Built in DAC (for streaming music, but I don't see a USB port. Will I still need my Modi?)
Coax input (until I upgrade my CD deck)
Remote control (my amp will be hard to access)
Sub output (cuz I got one)
Preamp outputs (for future honkin' amp... if they work with the volume control)
Tone controls (because I like them, especially for some old poorly mastered vinyl)
Bluetooth (maybe I'll use it, maybe not)
Class AB (because I am not quite ready for class D due to distrust of component life)
And, the price fits with the newer paradigm of audio of considerable quality but not bank-breaking cost. Right now, I'm looking at you, Denon CD deck. Why should I have to pay thousands for a "king's clothes" DAC?
Update - after a month:
The Denon is doing it. The built in DAC is doing very well with my DVD (CD for me) drive using the SPDIF coax input. It is an obvious improvement over the player's built-in audio. The MM input is very quiet and works well with my Denon DL-110 high output MC cartridge. (I found this connection much better than the built-in preamp on the LP-120 turntable (which I otherwise like). I suspect an impedance matching issue with the LP-120 preamp. This Denon drives the RP600M Klipsch's easily to about 95 dB SPL (measured at 12 feet in a 16' x 34' x 17' carpeted space). Beyond that, musical peaks can get distorted on orchestral music. That's plenty loud enough. Lows below about 60 Hz are handled by an existing 400 watt 12" powered sub using the Denon's sub output. The sub extends to 22 Hz (-3dB), which nearly completes the widest acoustic instrument tonal range which goes to 16 Hz (C 0), the fundamental of 32' organ tone. (By comparison, C 1, the lowest fundamental of a string bass, is 32 Hz.) The Klipsch's are mounted on Pangea 28" stands, if that matters.
So, the Denon amp is a keeper. I'm working to get streaming audio into the Denon with a Schiit Modi 3. The obstacle is getting the laptop reassigned from the office to the living room. It's a convenience thing. I'm seeking, maybe, a tablet solution to run the apps for Amazon HD Music and maybe Tidal, Qobuz, and feed the Schiit. The Denon has plenty of aux inputs.
Total cost of the system is $1220 not including the cables and cartridge and subwoofer. It makes real music to my ears.
looking at this to pair with klipsch 600m as well. How do you like the pair after a year?
@@themartinlozano No go. I replaced it with an Emotiva A-300 and PT-100. Then, I replaced the RP600M's with Elac DBR62's. The only issue with the Denon was insufficient power. My living room is fairly large. It actually needs about 150 watts per channel.
The Klipsch's and the Denon are sitting face down in the utility room. If I ever get around to it, I'll sell them both.
Hey Steve, I had a PMA2000R for 20 years and it drove every speaker I've owned (6) with ease and had an easy, forgiving, almost tubelike sound. I finally upgraded to a Marantz PM14 but the Denon amps will always be an easy recommendation for me.
Great heads up Steve. Always nice to hear about affordable gear that sounds great. Truth is, as long as the amplifier is capable of driving the load attached to it, most people wouldn't know the sound of a four hundred dollar amp from a four thousand dollar amp anyway. That's not to say there wouldn't be an audible difference. It's just that the vast majority of listeners, including the vast majority of self professed audiophiles who bemoan the raft of class D based amps hitting the market in recent years, simply wouldn't be able to reliably tell what output stage design a quality amp was using. Especially if they had to choose between five or six rather than just two. Preconceived notions and bias have a more profound effect on our decision making than we would like to admit. Again, I'm not suggesting there aren't differences in the sound of various amplifiers, DACs, CD players or even cables. But in a blind test can you actually tell the difference? If so, is it a good difference or a bad difference? And, if a good difference, is said difference worth the price to you or not?
Denon has been making great integrateds for a long time. I've had a PMA-9000, PMA-520, PMA-2000IV & all were exceptional, especially for the money.
Nice review. Good to know your thoughts on this affordable piece. Really interesting that you liked the Denon/LS50 marriage.
Steve Guttenberg I am getting mine today via UPS. It is the first new (non garage sale! LOL) amplifier in over 35 years. I am very excited.
A difference between $400 Denon and $4000 one is in few capacitors that lower high freq gain. This is well known way to "give a reason" of high prices in case of Denon.
Thanks for another great video.
I am still using my Denon PMA-680 integrated amp daily since 1991. Never even serviced. I just added a Denon DRM-500 Cassette Deck from the same build year for $35. Love my vintage Denon system. Looking for a tuner next.
I just got mine about a week ago and it really sounds amazing with my hersey iv's. This review really helped in my decision.
been considering getting this amp .... thanks for the review.
Man your channel is like therapy, thank you so much!
Looking forward for the CD rewie and I like this rewiev, keep going man 👍
Interested to hear your thoughts on the Denon CD player, as recently bought one for my parents to replace their 20 year old unit. Keep up the great work Steve and the great shirts.
Great reviews! Getting this amp and the Klipsch 600M’s based on your videos! Will let you know what I think about that combo!
thoughts?
@@luch1535 hello! I ended up getting the PMA800, which is just a step-up or one series newer. 439€ on Amazon in Spain. Love it. I am not experienced with audiophile equipment but I am a audio engineer and music producer and I really enjoy listening to music on this set up. I’ve got my Technic 1200M3D (1999) and it’s great 👌 I also picked up the Denon network player which is great too. Integrates with Spotify in a better way then anything I’ve ever connected to. Not trying to sell you on it, but 100% satisfied with my new setup. 👌 let me know what you get and how it works for you. Cheers!
I bought the PMA-800, very happy with it!
Hope you are enjoying your great new amp......have you the 800 streamer to go with it?, and if so I would really appreciate your views.
@@gordonhamilton727 No, I use an Audio Engine B1.
@@alanburnham9832 ok, thank you for your response.
Great review as always Steve! Your Jonny Greenwood/"There Will Be Blood" discussion was right on point as well. I appreciate you highlighting the KEF's here. I hope you can review Totem's new line of speakers sometime and perhaps their new class D amp as well. My local dealer said they are waiting to sell out of the Totem Rainmakers before bringing in the new Totem Skylights. Here in Canada the Skylights look to be about 300 dollars less as well at about $1000 than the Rainmakers. If they are replacing the Rainmakers I am curious if they made some $1000 gems. If so, I might go with these for a dedicated music system I am going to build. I did a demo of the Kin Play powered speakers but found them a little sharp on the top (I am sensitive to metal tweeters sometimes) with my hard rock and metal albums. I was considering the LS50's, but they didn't seem to present my modern more aggressive music as well as it's other talents.
Thanks again Steve, I was waiting for this Denon review.. :)
Got this Steve on your review matched them with warfedale Evo 44s brilliant
You are very interesting to listen to. You have quite an eccentric vibe. That's a good thing.
Thanks so much for showing quick pics of the equipment, I’m a visual learner!
Thanks for the review. As the owner of a full early 90’s Denon setup it is nice to see that they continue to make quality gear. Look forward to the CD player review.
Yeah, except for that one amp they made in the early 90's that liked to catch on fire!
For mass market stuff, though, they are one of the better sounding brands.
Cool, I've been using a Denon PMA-800NE (with a pair of P3ESRs) and wondered how it might stack up for you. $800 Canadian. I don't have a very big frame of reference, but I figured it was decent. Now I know it is.
LS50, Mies i100 integrated amp, Cambridge Dac Magic+. 42 wpc high current power from a class AB amp. DAC upsamples as well! Love it.
I bought this amp just before the holidays then it promptly sold out everywhere. I just added the companion DVD player to replace my vintage one. So far I'm really liking it and so much more powerful than the succession of AV receivers it replaced. Waiting for the KEF LS50's to arrive that I ordered on the last day they were on sale plus some JBL Studio 530's that were also on sale. Time to audition new speakers to replace my Elac B6's which are nice but a bit lacking in certain areas for my tastes. My sub is an Elac Debut 2.0 3010 and I'm very happy with it. Thanks for the recommendations Steve!
any update on the result?
Hi Steve,
So, between the NAD C 316BEE V2, Cambridge Audio AXA35, and this Denon PMA-600NE, which is the best for the under $400 category? Which one is your "new" reference?
I'm curious as well, between this and the 316...
im wondering the same..
Im on board, whats the verdict?
.
I think Denon is the most neutral of these, Nad and Cambridge has a more forward and spacial sound in the top..
Denon always had fantastic Amps,i sell Denon for more than 24 years,and they´re are wonderfull value for money.the new Pma 2500 integrated is great a sounding amp.Remember the old Denon PMA 6600A or 4400a monoblocs??'back in 1994 i had two pair´s of 6600a with B&W 801matrix in bi amp configuration,and they destroyed a Krell KSA 250(wich was my amp in that time)and costed 10 times more.
I have the Denon pma-720ae amp and dcd-800ne cd player, love them!
I am amazed that this amp is 45/70 watts at 8/4 ohms and the PMA800-NE is 50/80 watts at 8/4 ohms. This is a high current bargain! Is the only difference that the 800 has both MM and MC cartridge inputs or are there other factors that would make one choose the more expensive amp?
The Denon PMA-800ne doesn't have bluetooth and no Subwoofer out, which I find kind of weird since it's the 600ne's bigger brother but has less options.
The Bluetooth on top of the amazing sound of the Denon is all you need.
Japanese áudio is always very good for their price. I am using a simple Pioneer AV amplifier, nothing special... When I heard it at store I wasn't convinced and I was like "yeah... Tomorrow I will be returning it" but after arriving home, setting it up, let it calibrate withe MACC software and adjusting the cut off, it sounded very good, even with those basic AV kit speakers.
I am sure a 5 or maybe 10 times more expensive Rega would sound better but for the price, the Japanese audio is amazingly good!
Dude. Thanks so much for the "There Will Be Blood" soundtrack recommendation. I saw the movie but did not give much thought to the score. It's incredible.
Your sponsored en biassed by who feeds you.
Denon mosfets are too bright in treble. Japan tuning is too clean and fatiique for europe consumers
Hey Steve,
Love your videos but I wish you would show the equipment you are reviewing in use in your actual setup in your listening room.
Thx. Kris K
Hello Steve (from the french riviera) I like your channel mostly because of your unique background in the field, and this even if our musical tastes differ substantially (sorry but i don t like "the Man on the Corner Album by Miles Davis", but we agree on many other genres or recordings). Since you gave a very positive review on this entry level Denon integrated I would loke to see you giving some review of higher end Denon integrated like the PMA1500 and PMA2000 (there are like 4 versions of it) those are from the late 90 till recently. And then you could look at recent models like the PM$1600 NE or PMA 2000 NE or the top current model which is the PMA 2500NE. Denon also has a even more high end series, i think it is the PSA1*.
More generally you could consider reviewing devices made in Europe, Japan or China and also consider reviewing old stuff, you do so when you give advices about what to get for XXX bucks. I understand that rating second hand devices is uneasy beacause you cannot get the item to test for free, but well the cmmunity could try to support that or since New York is such a big city you could get music lovers to leand you electronic devices for testing (for loudspeakers it would be harder).
I m planning to go and listen in a few shops, but before doing that you should have an idea of what you want to hear.
Omitted was built in DAC and phono pre-amp
Thanks! I've been hoping you were going to review this. I saw it briefly in the background of one of your other reviews. Would be interested in how it pairs with the Forte III's.
Thank You for Your Help an Time ! Straight Ahead
I love how you say “Hulu” 🙌🏽😋
You can pick up a secondhand Denon PMA-1500 AE for an extra $100, which is a fantastic amplifier, same design too.
Denon 800 series is great for the money, 50w per channel amp @ 8ohms, no Bluetooth because there is a streamer to go with it, no sub out, but it doesn't need one, and to round it off there is a 800 series cd player, can have all 3 for around £1000 in the UK.
It was not mentioned, but I noticed the Denon printed on the front 3:11 the words.. "Advanced - High Current Amplifier." That may explain why it sounds so good.
I've talked to my local Denon supplier. Denon has invested a lot and really pushed their Stereo and Avr department. They are aiming at the top.. all from their basic stuff that now costs abit more to their more expensive gear.. Denon when good can be perfect. I would more focus on what music you dig and what speakers you want to pair. This review is consensus and approval of theyr efforts.
Thanks for positively reviewing what some would sneeringly call "mid-fi", Steve! Those people need reminding that good sound quality doesn't have to come at a high price.
Denon is the role model in audio equipment these day. Even Pioneer and Nakamichi Failed to keep up these day
It looks like they've got one of their old 90s amps and thrown all the modern features at it, neat!
I've got the Denon PMA 720ae, basically the same amp with a bit more power but no digital inputs, it's surprisingly good for £189, got it paired with mission mx4 floorstanders which I paid £169 for, yep I look for bargains, end of line stuff.
NICE , I had YAMAHA CA 1000 KILLER !!!! Old NAD nice too ! .....I sold most high end back in the day 70's & 80's those were the days !!!! Good spec on the NAD .....ROCK ON !
Thanks man, you sound enthusiastic.
.... Hi Steve, How does it compare to the Marantz PM5005/6006UK amplifiers???? ....
The PMA 800 NE is even less expensive because it's been on the market for a while.
I would also like to see a review on the PMA 1600NE since it's also high current.
No it's not.
Not in Europe anyway.
@Christos Dimitropoulos I don't know where you're from buts it's 370€ on Amazon Germany
@Christos Dimitropoulos greece and cyprus everything is overpriced , germany is the best place to buy
Steve Guttenburg, thanks for this review. This denon amp is definetly in my short list with the marantz p5005. I was hesitating between getting the denon with this analog mode(because i mostly listen to analog sources) or get the purely analog marantz amp. So my question is : what do you think about this analog mode on the denon? And how do you describe the sound of the denon for a jazz playback? Thank you.
Peace from France
I recently picked up a Denon AVR x1500h .. I'm quite pleased built-in phono stage in it. I'm using energy 5.1e Tower speaker
I know a recording engineer who swears by Denon gear. Having only a pair of output devices, they are fast and accurate, or so he says. He doesn't understand why they get overlooked as much as they do.
Could you educate me on the value of this ? Do other amps use multiple output devices to achieve the same level of power and hence less desire able ? Or is it just that only two channels so only two output devices ?
Steve is the Rich Roll of Audio 😂does anyone else see the similarities? Love the vids Steve thank you
45w into 8ohm? I'd rather go with emotiva and buy a new one if it ever breaks. The one i bought second hand for $200 has been rock solid, even has a toroidal transformer inside.
I ended up making my own amp with a 2 x 180W @ 8 ohm class-T amp with the Hifimediy T4 module and a high quality 600w SMPS. Sounds just as good as my monoblocks driving Tekton Lore S. The case of the amp stays at ambient temps, no noticeable heat.
Marketing BS, listing the power at 4ohm.
I still have my old Denon PMA 25O II amp that I purchased years ago while I was in the UK. Nice bit of kit. The output specs don't sound impressive (25W x 2 into 8 ohms), but paired with my Mission 751s, it was more than enough for my needs.
Steve should be the official audiophile's shrink
Have the PMA-720AE with Denon speakers.. but using them mostly for Denon headphones D7200 they sound amazing. Great product and thanks for review. All the best.
Great amp I purchased recently sound is great etc totally recommend
Nice! I'm was hoping they would import the bigger/Higher end Denons such as the PMA-2500NE or higher but it doesn't look like that's going to happen
I'm with you on the bass and treble knobs.
I'm so sick of a TONE knob or, worse yet, a push button series of common tone settings that are supposed to fit any room...they don't.
And I grew up in the late 60s and early 70s, so I'm use to having those basic controls. What the heck are the designers of (most) modern equipment smoking?
Not to mention decent loud speakers...usually 3 way setups with a control on the back so that you can dial in the perfect top end (or whatever).
I still have an old Pioneer 12 band stereo equalizer I used with my old rig. It doesn't see much use anymore, but I refuse to let go of it.
I run my music through my PA rig now. All digital music with a stereo 31 band EQ that allows me to tweak the sound as I like.
I know...it's not AUDIOPHILE quality, but I'm an old musician and my ears aren't so picky anymore and the EQ allows me to find the sweet spot regardless.
It seems that PROGRESS isn't always moving forward (although I'm pretty sure that it has something to do with giving us less for more money. GREED! It's the American way).
Excellent review, Steve.
Absolutely, tone controls you can adjust with your fingers and not a push button or worst yet.............nothing.
The list price for this has since gone up to $449 pretty much everywhere. Demand?
Steve I just love your enthusiasm and expertise for all things audio, long may you continue.... R E S P E C T......
I bet the DCD-600NE disc spinner will also be very good. I've had a Denon DCD-685 CD player for years and I assure you I'll only buy another one when it dies. Or when I can afford something in the 1000+ price range.
Being surprised it's so good "for the money" is not a REVIEW. But it's good to know this Denon exists, and I do appreciate the quick feedback from experienced ears. Good that it can drive a difficult load. Do you know if someone out there has actually reviewed it? I wonder how it would perform with horn speakers.
It will be seen/heard as a review ... Especially for those that don't want to hear that a $1000 amp will be better.
ShellstaX - The $1000 amplifier will be BELIEVED to sound better, even by those who have never heard it. In a true ABX comparison that belief may be hard to support. As long as we avoid doing ABX comparisons, we can hold onto our beliefs forever.
@@AdrianIII Let the ABX testing commence then ... But there is also something of worth in build quality.
I have the 520AE, which is basically the 600NE without the DAC, and it’s an awesome amp. Just remember to press the “source direct” button (and “analog mode” button if you don’t use the DAC) ;)
Source direct on makes the sound more flat and worse.
@@kenspo source direct bypass the preamp section (except volume). It makes a cleaner, truer sound. If you like EQ it’s your taste.