Intro
Contents
With 110 years of historical innovation and heritage , Denon has a name to be proud of. The Denon PMA-1700NE is the latest addition to the line of the Japanese Brand. Developed and made in Japan, we are very curious what this versatile powerhouse will bring us.
The amplifier class between 1000 Euro and 2000 Euro is particularly popular on Alpha Audio. Almost every multitest in that class is a hit. And that’s not surprising: it’s still just affordable and this is where the biggest differences can be found (at least that’s what we think). That Denon has a product in this price class and tries to make a decent product, is understandable.
Denon PMA-1700NE
The new PMA-1700NE is an integrated amplifier with both analog and digital inputs. We see on the back a Phono (MM/MC) input, three single ended line inputs and a rec-out. Then we find two more optical inputs, a coaxial input and USB. It is also possible to use the PMA-1700NE as a power amplifier via the EXT.PRE input.
Finally, you can connect two pairs of speakers (Speaker A / B). On the front we see a button for Analog Mode (can be set in two positions), Source Direct for those who want to bypass the tone control completely and a MM/MC switch for the phono input. The large knob in the middle is for volume: that’s pretty recognizable. Of course, everything can also be done on the remote control. However, we find the steps for volume too large to control comfortably: point of attention for Denon. To the right of the volume knob is a small display that indicates the input.
Up-beat Class AB
As befits Denon, internally we find two E-core transformers and two FET transistors per side. The more beefy versions have more transistors, but this 1700NE has two per side. They should provide about 70 watts into 8 Ohms and 140 watts into 4 Ohms. That is quite true to our measurements (which you will find below). The dacboard we find in a separate box (for shielding) on the side of the amplifier. This appears to be the same as the one in the Marantz Model 40N. We see an equivalent pattern in our measurements. More on that later.
The build quality of the Denon is neat. The cabinet feels solid and the build quality internally looks good. In short: no complaints!
