Denon PMA-2500NE & DCD1600NE review

HenryHonda

Enjoy your new acquisition - I have no doubts at all that you will   (both with Red Book CDs and SACDs)

As a matter of interest, what state was the polystyrene packaging in when you opened the box?

As I said earlier, 24/7 running-in is highly recommended

gibbsy

Exactly as you described it. Smashed up a bit on the bottom rear. The box itself was in perfect condition so it must just be the weight of the unit as you've already mentioned. Denon needs some stronger packaging.

I'm just about to listen to the SACD of Carly Simon's Anticipation, an SACD that was used in one of reviews I read on the unit.

HenryHonda

I'd be very interested in how you find this particular SACD on the 2500.  Since you introduced me to Discogs, I've purchased a number (you warned me ) of SACDs - and have been pondering over Anticipation vs No Secrets...?  Currently waiting for a copy of FM's Rumours from Japan.

gibbsy

I've got both the MoFi editions, don't bother with Hot Cakes though unless your a diehard Simon's fan. Both the others are certainly well worth owning although I do slightly prefer No Secrets. Anticipation has some seriously good percussion on it and the 2500 brings it to the fore. I think I'm in love with this player.

HenryHonda

So pleased you feel like those of us already there Give it a week or so running-in, and you'll be always grinning from ear to ear when listening to both your SACD and Red Book CD discs. I would venture to say that our 'group' probably own the best VFM SACD player at this price point

Numpty112233

Do you gently stroke it when no one is looking? You'll be buying it a mini duvet next with silver disk motifs on to keep it warm at night ;-)
How does the sound compare to your Marantz?

Numpty112233

To get "the very best" try downloading super hi-res DSD files and burning them to DVD-RW to play... This also opens out the availability of even more music...

gibbsy

My missus listened to it last night with her headphones, AKG 550s. It was one of her favourite CDs Birdy Fire Within. I had a quick listen as it was almost always played on the Marantz prior. I was pretty amazed, far more detail, her voice sounded more 'organic'. I though it would not tolerate a fairly poor compressed album but I was more than pleasantly surprised. On this this particular album it was far better than the Marantz. So one nil to the Denon. I'm really surprised with the difference, I didn't think it was that pronounced.

Won't have much chance to listen over the next few days as our little dog is back from the vets after a major operation and needs of lot of care and attention.

SickSquirrel

Denon DCD-2500NE being delivered tomorrow.  Thanks Numpty!

Numpty112233

My pleasure Sir. Enjoy!
What will you be partnering it with?
How's it playing?
Had a chance yet to back to back compare with your Marantz SACD player through your Rega amp and Kef speakers?