The Sound
Contents
The Denon manages to grab us from the first notes. By the way, it is no secret that your author has a thing for the Denon sound. The PMA-2500, A110 and the DCD-A110 are also devices from the Japanese that we have rated very highly. the DCD-A110 has even been in our rack as a reference for a while. Unfortunately it was on loan and had to be returned. Due to the upgrading of the reference system, there was no budget left to put it permanently in the system. Anyway, you can’t have everything.
Energetic
Back to the sound. The PMA-1700NE also has an energetic and tight sound. Exactly what we love. The Sonus Fabers sing as if their lives depend on it. This is a wonderful combination for those who go for experience. The energy and rhythm bursts from it. But for some it will be just over the edge. However, with a speaker like an Elac or DALI that can be tamed. Fellow author Geoffrey will surely know some speakers that have a more ‘relaxed’ high range.
With the TADs we also hear a nice and lively reproduction of the source material. Steven Wilson is beautifully stable between the speakers. And ‘Mammal Hands’ comes through the three units tightly. No sharpness from the Beryllium tweeters. In short: a neat performance! It also strikes us how quietly the Denon does all this. No drama, but just a nice, fresh and lively reproduction without going over the top.
Is it a logical combination with the TAD? No. But it does work. Although, of course, we hear that the TADs can do more. It can be smoother and airier. But boy: for €2000 Euro this is really very clever. The Pass combination sells for €16000 Euros. And then you need a dac. With the Pasithea that would take the bill to €22,000. But honestly: it’s not 11 times as good. It’s as simple as that!
What would we combine with this Denon? You might think of a nice pair of Revels. Or a pair of Definitive Technology’s. That would be a good match we estimate. Then for around €5000 Euro you are just ready. Bluesound, TV via optical input and hit that volume!
