NEW Amplifier with VINTAGE SOUND!? DENON PMA-900HNE REVIEW

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

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[@samiratilainen5970]

I have the pma-1600ne and it’s fudging insane!! Beats the s*it out of a 3000€ Hegel for example (had one on trial before going for the Denon)

[@KristiWright]

@@samiratilainen5970 We haven't heard the 1600ne but good to know! Thanks for watching.

[@wa2368]

No power amp direct input (one feature that should be a must on any integrated)...Rejected immediately! Tell Denon they suck.

[@wa2368]

@@samiratilainen5970 1600ne has gotten a 500 dollar price increase since its release!!

[@giannislarch]

@@samiratilainen5970 I think it's one of the best Amp the lately years has produced!(regarding its sound). Of course it's a matter of taste etc. always.. Unfortunately I'm not an owner of it, but maybe one day... if it's still out there and I have the €..

[@ragkong]

I love the Denon PMA-900HNE, just a comfortable and smooth time listening to music, deep and heavy bass, easy midrange and silky treble. I love it.

[@robertgruber982]

Currently demoing a silver Denon 1700-ne at my house with KLH Model 5s. It's roughly twice the price and power rating of the 900 but It sounds quite powerful in the low end with a rich midrange and lively treble. Having also demoed the much more expensive Rotel 1592 MK II (which you guys loved) with the same speakers I much prefer the Denon. Similar in the lows and mids but much less aggressive in the highs. I found the Rotel almost painful where the Denon comes off as airy and detailed. The Rotel sounds very tilted up where the Denon comes off as neutral but not rolled off. System matching and synergy I guess...Also I think the Denon's, in the silver particularly, are much better looking than any of Cambridge, Audiolab or Bluesound products, and certainly than the Rotel but that is a matter of taste.

[@Hungho-jd9pb]

I have Denton 1700ne as well…. Love it.

[@4kpariswalk443]

我还是选择了DENON Pam 1700，效果真的很好！

[@papaquonis]

I like the idea of having the A terminals below the B terminals. Connect your main speakers to the A terminals first, leaving the B terminals more easily accessible when needed later on.

[@elmenomaronido6653]

is all about personal tastes , i own the pma-600ne and soon buying the 900 , i love the Denon old school design and classic 80’s warm sound and never ever buy a product like the Bluesound powernode that looks like a small box printer with a few small lights on the top !!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Different strokes as they say. Thanks for watching!

[@elmenomaronido6653]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews always , never miss your reviews.

[@jja2000]

If you'd want a more classic looking blueOS compatible amp I'd look at NAD's C-series amps with the blueos expansion card.

[@AndAlisa]

Здравствуйте, вы уже купили pma 900? Как качество звука, детализация?

[@redstarwraith]

My take on aesthetics: Bluesound looks like a door stopper. Cambridge is exceedingly humdrum, Denon looks closer to what I would term "classic" - I mean, it looks like a Denon, right? Out of the gear you mentioned, the Audiolab has the look I prefer.

[@thorbampougias311]

Update I bought this amplifier I am excited connected to speakers Quad L23 classic the result is amazing I think I hear music from the Audiolab 8000 A 1983 !! what dynamic detail sound , i tried internet radio, tidal, usb , phono,tape recorder, cd , now i can also make recordings from md , tape ,reel to reel recorder An amazing amplifier My system :Denon 900ne - Denon cd 900 connected with optical -Quad L23 classic and Sub Β&W asa 1000 120W from 1998

[@RolfB26.2]

The PMA 900 is an awesome Amp ❣️

[@Panslapper]

It is a big one. The understated digital readout window is welcome, classy and diminutive. Good solid build quality. Good looking all round imo. Plenty of weight to the sound….nice!

[@JuanEAP]

I enjoy at home this DENON PMA-900HNE paired with Bowers & Wilkins 707S2 and DB4S. The sound is incredibly rich and detailed but not clinic, I t’s very pleasant. The connectivity is flawless. The look of the black aluminium DENON is classic and pairs perfectly with the classic look the B&W black piano. The quality of the finishing is very good and the controls have a smooth touch. Other brands have a kind of retro futuristic stile, something that someone could consider “modern” twenty years ago. I opted for the classic and atemporal option with all the technological advances inside and a well known quality.

[@nasdkhan254]

I own a Denon 1510 . This amp looks similar. Its the Denon look. I love it

[@stevelanemusic4463]

Excelent, yet again. I'm so glad you both reviewed my new favorite. This will most likely be my next amp. Die hard Denon & B&W guy over here. Any time I see one or more of those 2 names I get smiling. Also, I would like to mention how much I really enjoy your channel. You both do excellent work and I am always looking forward to your new videos. 😁

[@johnboard7770]

So glad to hear you reference your vintage Pioneer receiver. You and Kristi inspired me to find one and have it refurbished. While I don’t listen to it often, I still like to hook it up once in awhile because it reminds me of my first foray into good stereo sound back in the 80’s.

[@adamlink7561]

I own a very bright set of bookshelf speakers that I tried for the longest time to find an amp that I liked to pair with them. so bright I was ready to scrap them. Finally borrowed a buddy’s extra Denon AVR and it turned out to be perfect. In the right application that “Denon sound” works but the “Denon look” makes me hide it in a cabinet and control with the app.

[@randylneisen4824]

Sounds like a good match for Klipsch speakers

[@twenty4seven368]

Had a pma-1600 and it matched my bright totem hawks really well. Preferred it over my Hegel integrated amp for that speaker.

[@DiRazor]

There should be a colab with Darko Audio. Talking about differences between audio overseas, the attitude to the audio equipment, specific preferences here and there 😁

[@TCSB29]

Just want to thank y'all for the great vids! Just picked up a pair of Monitor Audio Silver 100 7Gs (@ 20% off MSRP!!) based on y'alls recommendation, and I absolutely adore them. At 1100 bucks, I think they're a great value and I can't recommend them enough!

[@Prosper1983]

Is it just me? Everyone recommends the powernode, but I just really loved the pma 900 over that one. Or maybe I'm just old and found a more vintage sound in the PMA.

[@Trebor-u4q]

It's not just you I reckon Denon pma amps are much better than the Powernode. I have a pma 800ne, superb for the price. The DAC in the Node 2021 is just awful imo.

[@anlemcsa132]

Enjoy it because enjoyment is the only thing that will satisfy you.

[@jerryjazzbo2845]

It's also very possible that these aren't the right reviewers.

[@joeridebruijn7650]

I only have the Denon PMA 600-NE and an amplifier with bluetooth I think it's a good amplifier.

[@marks5966]

Would these “fix” the B&W 606 S2?

[@bpalpha]

It has a record loop! 👍 Sweet. Really like the simple quality design of Denon integrated amps.

[@gg0297]

Uuu, Bowers&Wilkins 805 D4 review incoming. 👌 Maybe you can have your hands on the new 700 series bookshelves. Great review, as always.

[@mdsveda]

I just bought this to use with Klipsch KG 4.5’s. I really like it. Looks good to me! I have a leftover WiiM mini for Amazon HD…though the Amazon app is laggy and stinks. Spotify Connect works great with the Denon. I’m getting the matching CD player too.

[@cytherea8585]

Great job with your reviews!! What do you think about pairing it with Qacoustic 5040?

[@ronenbeniaminov6162]

i think the Denon looks beautiful. all this talking about how it looks so redundant

[@truthpig]

Yes it's old school but classy, I like how it looks, I thought the Cambridge and Audiolab looked cheap and plastic by comparison.

[@ROYALUSTER]

Good morning from NC! Back home from another business trip in SFO. Great to be home and my HiFi stuff.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Welcome home and thanks for joining us Roy!

[@KristiWright]

Appreciate you tuning in, Roy.

[@chrissheldrick4073]

Those Bowers & Wilkens look like quite a weapon ...looking forward to THAT review...

[@timschutte3961]

Denon rules and made such good stereo amps but people just did not buy them morons....and i have PMA 1520ae and man i love this thing very good,solid and powerful amp that sounds lovely on my Dali's Zensor 7.

[@johnmares7817]

RE: the Denon 900 review, Sorry Kristi, I use my ears, not sight, to listen to vinyl. As my granddaughter likes to say..." You're so wrong. I have owned several Denon pieces for over 30 years and they continue to perform like new

[@jerryjazzbo2845]

If Kristi hates a product, it must be worth auditioning.

[@Panslapper]

A fruit salad would not be one without Bananas, Cherries and Apples and HiFi tastes are as such don’t you think…in regards to the longevity of Denon amps, they last! I agree. I personally prefer the look of the Denon even over the Cambridge amps and things like the Bluesound style are not my cup of tea. I have to say I am in my 50s so I may have more legacy taste here than our friend Kirsty…

[@PetrKrenzelok]

I am the - design first guy, so much, that my wife often reminds to stay practical 🙂 So nowadays, we use Elinchrom / Profoto lights in a studio, Canon R5 + RF glass as a camera and Monitor Audio Silver 200 (gen 6) satin white as speakers. All love at first sight. And if it works well, even better then! Now back to audio equipment. I have refused to consider Arcam, Audiolab, Cambridge CXA, Hegel, some of NADs - just because how ugly those look to me. I know this is very subjective. But - as a Denon owner, I find their amps having "classic" look, definitely not cheap or ugly. E.g. their pma-150h looks nice, but that's a lifestyle class D stuff. The designs I like - Marantz 30/40, Cambridge Evo, Naim Uniti, some of Vincent stuff, Yamaha and Technics with their gauges. In the AVR area - the new Yamaha AxA line, Anthem's MRX line, as well as upcoming Marantz Cine line. I think the whole hi-fi area is evolving and especially younger generation might prefer aspects like - lifestyle desing, flexibility (streaming, wireless, multiroom), and of course sound quality.

[@5675492]

I'm totally opposite from Kristi - I'd take the Denon's looks any day over the Cambridge - which ironically I think looks cheap ( especially those buttons on the front ) . The eye of the beholder I guess lol .

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Fair enough! Thanks for watching, Hugh.

[@umrryan]

QOTD better aesthetic and HDMI, though I have no idea where that lands its price point. 🤣 You two are keeping up your streak of entertainment and laughs for me. Have a great day!

[@KristiWright]

Totally agree with HDMI. It should almost be standard at this point. Appreciate you watching!

[@bobby1970]

All you need is a good 31 band graphic equalizer. With that, you can make almost any receiver or stereo system sound stellar. Yes, anyway you want it to sound.

[@ELECTECHNUT]

I agree! Equalizers fix a lot of things: speaker shortcomings, room acoustics, recording issues, etc. When people do stuff like choosing "warm amps" to compensate for their tin-can sounding speakers, they are "equalizing" their system; but in a very limited and ass-backward way.

[@tbonet859]

Who currently makes a good quality 31 band EQ? Please let me know. Thanks.

[@jdmccall56]

I think the Denon is gorgeous, which partly explains why I own a Denon stack myself (PMA1600/DCD1600/DNP800). Looks are pretty much purely subjective though, so I wouldn't place too much importance on it. I think build quality of Denon's 800 series components is good for the money, while the 1600 series is definitely a notch or three better -but you do pay a bit more for it. I gather the reviewed piece is more comparable to the 800 series. Sound quality: Maybe a slight boost of the treble tone control would bring the subjective sound quality more into line with expectations.

[@jdmccall56]

Also, just wondering if Kristi thinks McIntosh gear looks "old"? Audiolab and Cambridge both have their own look, too, that they have cultivated for years. The same can be said of many audio manufacturers. So I don't get the rather, what I would call, excessive bashing of Denon over styling. But whatever...you've got the "bully pulpit". Keep up the good work. I enjoy your reviews. I believe y'all, along with Darko and Steve Huff, are setting the standard.

[@bubbax7477]

Another great review, Andrew. You seem to hit all the question I have about equipment. And if you miss one, or don't spend as much time on a subject as I wished, your "better half" plays clean-up hitter and makes it a perfect review.

[@Mark198d]

I'm a Denon fan, but since the early 2000's Denon saves all their best stuff for Japan only. The stuff for the USA market generally is not that impressive. Basically you have to go for PMA-2000+ models and then to the high end SX models for high performance.

[@ZERO-CAPACITANCE]

Excellent review, great energy, cutaways, split screen, jump cut pushes and audio. Lighting is perfect and the room is super clean. Maybe try a little musical or visual 5 second highlight/intro sequence when you transition to different aspects of the review? Great job.

[@leo11877]

DTS-PlayFi < Wiim OS (Arylic?) < Heos < MusicCast < BluSound < Sonos. Not sure if I forgot something.

[@leo11877]

@@TriAmpMyFi Those are apps only. The BlueSound device HDMI is input only + CEC to control TV volume etc.

[@Panslapper]

I like the look of the Denon, the sound to generally. In regards to some of the more ‘modern’ looking amps I find them a very hit and miss combo. The Audiolab 6000a while a nice amp does remind me of some of the toys in the kids crèche, whereas the Denon looks a lot more serious, solid, established and mature. Another commented that the 6000a looks like a gas stove and that the person wouldn’t like to wake up half a sleep looking for somewhere to put his or her beans on…

[@truthpig]

I've had the 900HNE for over a year and I love it, first it drove some Kef Q750s which I later uprated to Kef R7 Metas and it drives them with ease, loads of clout with rich deep bass, and at 40% volume it's as loud as I can stand. I have recently upgraded the Denon because everyone says the R7s are power hungry and need more to shine so I bought a Teac AP701 power amp boasting 260 wpc at 4 ohms and to be honest I'm a little disappointed there's not more difference between the two, sure the Teac sounds better but it only in terms of a wider, more focused sound stage and a more 'grown up' or 'sophisticated' sound, is that all the extra I get for £2000 more than the Denon? And it's actually quieter than the humble integrated, I now need over 50% of the volume to get the same sound levels, go figure? The Denon punches well above it's weight in terms of driving low impedance speakers, the R7s are rated at 4 ohms with dips to 3.2 but the 900 takes that in it's stride, I'm nothing but impressed with by it and will be sad to see it go, it's a great little amp.

[@filip_arch285]

Great work as always. I really like the quality of your videos, aestheticaly and on content. Have an of topic question though. Magnat Transpuls 800A or Edifier S3000Pro? Wich ones should i choose?

[@hollishedrich9126]

I took your advice and just bought both the 900 amp and the matching CD player and they sound great. I want to stack them. I see in the photos from Denon that they have the DVD player on top. Shouldn't the amp be on top? I actually prefer to have the CD player on top like in the photos but I am concerned about heat from the amp. Also, do you know it it is possible to remove the inputs that I don't want from the dial?

[@syanhc]

I've owned 3 denon AV amps in my time. They are brilliant value and sound very musical though not audiophile grade. They powered my Monitor Audio Bronze 7.1 set up. Very powerful and always a treat. Even for music, very clear and well rounded sound. But you are correct, the house sound is relaxed. May not be for everyone...

[@KristiWright]

Thanks for sharing!

[@musiconvinylisbetter.1449]

Musical?

[@ChrisCiapala]

QoD: as a long time Denon X-series user, I would immediately fire the HEOS UI designer. It feels like Windows 3.11 in the 21st century. It works, but I avoid using it every time I can.

[@jeffreystern4539]

Nice review. Was a bit surprised when Kristi popped in but thought it added to the review to hear another opinion. I was strongly leaning to the Denon but then started reading up on the CXA81. Gets great reviews. What do you think about getting a refurbished CXA81 from CAmbridge for $400 less vs a new PMA900HNE for about same price

[@boba2783]

Hi both, another informative review thanks. Question - in a long form sorry, when an amp like this can sit on top of a AV receiver and power the front speakers during movie playback, do you call that HT bypass, or AV bypass or fixed AV bypass? It is always something that I look out for because that arrangement has always worked well with me and I'd look at the Marantz 40N or this to sit by the new Denon AVR *800 range in 2023 onwards. -thanks again

[@Panslapper]

If Denon squeezed Fiio’s R2R dac into their PMA900hne it would blow a lot of amps out of the pond! Simple. The Fiio R2R takes the Denon to another level which is why I am keeping both.

[@pongyang8705]

Have you guys done a PMA-1600ne (or 1700ne) review? Would be curious your thoughts on that integrated. Seeing how that step up should be much better in many ways compared to the 900ne.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Have not, but may look into it.

[@KristiWright]

We haven't been sent those.

[@van94weightlossjourney]

Love Denon equipment. Enough to buy one for my Dad to replace an old Onkyo 5.1 amp. Unfortunately having owned 3 Denon amps, two have fried.

[@brianlewis5042]

This was an interesting video. The Denon sound for the most part has been what I call a “smooth operator “. Which is more like the British sound. That’s a sound I never liked. Now if it had a sound that would blow you away, I could definitely overlook the aesthetics and would have purchased one of their products. This amp has connectivity and that is it’s strong point. I guess you didn’t have a Yamaha amp in house to compare with the Denon amp. That would be nice to have seen. Happy Sunday and enjoy the games today.

[@KristiWright]

Hey Brian, I'm with you about that British sound...usually isn't my cup of tea. No, we haven't had a Yamaha in house for a while. I think the last one we had was the S-801. Thanks for spending part of your day with us.

[@neulandlotse]

I don’t want Video Signals near my audio tech! So happy no HDMI. I want listen, not watch! The Denon to me is the only amp of all you showed, that looks like a real amp. Not like those other tech-boxes for bread or wlan😜

[@ChaiBearProductions]

Denon is a reputable company with good performance. 😊I have the A110 and am quite happy with it.

[@andyiacovou]

The A110 is a spectacular amp 👍

[@ChaiBearProductions]

@@andyiacovou Indeed. Have you heard it, what do you think of the sound?

[@andyiacovou]

@@ChaiBearProductions yes I have it paired with the Rose 150b streamer and it's a great combo

[@romanov_uz]

I enjoy my PMA 800na with Polk Audio S55e 😊 System like this i can afford once in my life 🤷‍♂️ I'm not audiophile, just music lover 😋

[@szabolcstoth4464]

Hey folks, what do you think, would this fit to my Dali Opticon2 mk2 speakers?

[@timschutte3961]

Yeah Dali and Denon sounds great have it also

[@DrEagleEye1]

Hi Andrew, would you say the Audiolabs are powerful enough to pair with KEF Q950's or do i need to consider something more powerful like this Denon?

[@danijel-c]

Great review; I like comparing its sound with different speakers and clearly explaining the sound differences.

[@improvedgarage]

I like the hard controls, and the subtle display doesn’t ruin the “vintage look” the way that some other gear does. This seems to slot in nicely between something like the Yamaha integrated offerings and other more modern amps. I agree that BluOS is so significantly better than other streaming apps that it’s hard to consider anything else in the same price range as a NAD / blusound product. I appreciated k’s perspective because I thought it looked good but I bet my wife doesn’t.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

To me the Denon is what older NAD used to be in terms of looks/value.

[@KristiWright]

I prefer integrated amps to look a little more like hifi jewelry.

[@improvedgarage]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews I was going to ask in the livestream, have you ever heard the qacoustics 3030i? Any thoughts on them.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

@@improvedgarage We've heard them and they're solid speakers and a good value. Admittedly it's been a minute, but I'd choose them over a lot of similarly priced options, but maybe NOT the Polk R200 or Speaker Box 5 S2.

[@improvedgarage]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews yea I’ve been going back and forth on that. They have a much higher WAF so I may need to accept them. I was looking at the new p300 but they told me they won’t send you a review pair so I have a hard time buying them.

[@fer2778]

Do you think this amp play better that sansii g era or any vintage receiver or amp? Sounds better?

[@sureshmilton]

A lot of people find Denon makes amazing sounding amps. Seeing such a company with rich heritage being shot down does make me think something is not right. I prefer audio with a little more linger and don't like flat, small sounding amps. Maybe there are just different tastes in music but I think more effort should be put into why Denon makes warm sounding amps. Is it for cutting costs? I have no idea but I trust the Japanese in refinement. They even think about interference caused by amp displays. Maybe that is why the small display.

[@Holychickendestroyer]

About the look. My theory is Denon is taking the McIntosh route of making all their gear similar looking to established “brand look”. Also and more importantly the look of gear that can be purchased and the wife would not know it is newer purchased gear since it looks so much like to the older replaced model. You can make the upgrade to newer gear and the wife wouldnt notice.

[@hifihillbilly4843]

How do you think this would pair with the Lintons and what integrated would you recommend?

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

It would power them but it is not the pairing I would recommend. We go over several other options in the review that you might consider (notes are also in the description).

[@deankim6687]

Couldn’t you just equalize a bright speaker to tame it? Or would it adversely effect the clarity?

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

There's always different solutions to a problem so yes you could do that, but for those who have an aversion to tone controls, an amp like the Denon may be a preferable solution.

[@jayman3575]

Any of these integrated amps allow for home theater bypass and subwoofer/speaker crossover control? Surprised you guys didnt compare against parasound...i definitely would love to have their preamp...

[@dorons2108]

I actually think it looks pretty good, will it have enough power and complimenting sound for B&W 684 towers ? right now they are connected to a Marantz pm6005 and i hate the sound, over bright and lack presence in low volume.

[@truthpig]

I have this amp and it powers my Kef R7 Metas with ease, with plenty of bass it sounds good at low volumes, I like it a lot.

[@adrot2937]

Wondering if this would be good for my klipsch 8000f

[@umm2012]

Bruh I got them Klipsch's too and I have them paired with Marantz PM6007 (bi-wired) and must say damn great goodness with music :)

[@Klemken]

Hi, i bought Qacustic 3050i speakers and now i am looking for stereo amplifier for them. I need an "streaming amplifier", since 99% of time, source of my music is Tidal/Deezer. My budged for amplifier is 500-1000€ and in that range, i am looking at Denons DRA800H and PMA-900HNE. Which one yould you suggest?

[@mdaniknightrider]

Kristi said about Andrew in a previous video, that he’s getting better in reviews, but the same goes for Kristi too. Simply the best, both of you!❤ 😊

[@charlespurviskellyjr.1232]

Actually, the Denon PMA900ne is a rather good looker to me. The price is not bad considering all the features that it has…. DAC, Remote Control, a Power Amplifier Section with High Current Capability, and that it sounds rather laid back, and that might be what would win me over and steer me towards this amp as opposed to the Yamaha A-S801 (another highly touted Integrated Amplifier that is under my consideration - or maybe I’ll hold on and keep my vintage NAD 3140 and then just add a BlueSound NODE 2 or 2i to it). And not only is the Denon PMA900ne is a looker with a rather robust build quality and laid back sound, it would also be more fitting for my < than 600 Square Foot One Bedroom/One Bedroom Apartment, making it a likely suitor to more Speakers (I would mate it with the Wharfedale Diamond 12.1 or 12.2 Speakers). I would think that Denon PMA900ne and the Wharfedale Diamond Series Speakers just mentioned will make an ideal pairing (with the option to add a Subwoofer later on if it determined by me if one is needed). Highly Recommended! -Charles-

[@colanitower]

You could be right. I have an older, refurbished Denon PMA-1060 amplifier and Wharfedale Lintons. It's a very good match. I planned to add a subwoofer but after a few months of listening experience there appears to be no need.

[@Isynko]

Hey there , what do you think about the Technics SA-C600 as the all-in-one listening device for 2 channel setup, would you recommend it to start the hi-fi road with it? :) or do you have a review coming up for it? thanks and take care

[@arronslater6184]

With the Denon amps appearance I find it looks the same as your typical denon integrated from 30 years ago. If you simplified the front panel layout with input selector on the left and volume on the right with a larger central rectangular screen it would look much better. Deleting the bass, treble and balance controls with a +/-- button and a menu function button to toggle between functions would also look neater. The styling on my Denon RCD-N7 network CD reiever looks much simpler even though it has many more functions to control.

[@sopwith1]

Enjoy the reviews. Wondering if you can review the DENON PMA-1700NE, or compare the DENON PMA-3000NE to the Denon PMA-A110

[@dafh5280]

Do you need to connect this directly to a telephone point (lan?) to stream or can this be done wirelessly? Intend to partner with already sourced Focal 948 speakers.

[@cagedrage3379]

You can choose wireless only if you want.

[@Sasq90]

Hello, is it comparable with CLASS D integrated amps like SMSL AO300? Or the difference is not so big using speakers under 1k USD?

[@Panslapper]

Both great amps! I like the AO-300 and owned 2 of them but sold them on and bought the 900hne, very happy with the result.

[@dodpr]

I still think the little Cambridge AXA35 is so underrated.

[@anmic3590]

Hi! Thank you for the review! I have a pair of Monitor Audio Silver 200 and I’m running them with a Rega Elex-R. The cables are Van Damme Blue series. I didn’t have the chance to test them with other amps. Would you recommend another amp that will work better with the Silvers? I have as sources the Planar 1 turntable, a Pioneer PD-75 Reference cd player and the Pioneer CT-959 Reference cassette deck. I’m looking to get the best out of them and to get a hifi sound as much as you can get from this kind of speakers. Thank you so much!

[@rhorto01]

Here is something I wonder about... I did not go the "tons of features" integrated route, I went for a more bare bones integrated (a Schiit Ragnarok 2 "just an amp") and decided to get a dedicated digital source to handle that part of it. Given the extra cost doing it that way causes, I wonder if it was ultimately worth it. (I dont regret anything as CD/SACD playback is still important to me and I think adding that to the more feature packed amps would get me to a similar price point possibly without as nice a DAC.... Still it is fun to ponder.)

[@normrubio]

So you went with the X95K? Because of the bright room?

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

We have both and have not settled on a decision. The TV shown in this review is the Sony.

[@johnnyj525]

I wonder if these will help with the Focal Chora 806! They are some bright speakers!

[@babagandu]

I have PMA-2010AE and PMA-1600NE ... couldn't believe the difference. PMA-1600NE sounded terrible like it was defective.

[@craigosterberg5045]

Thanks for the review

[@alwayslookin73]

Man she had some great points! Thanks to you both

[@blueversace4447]

I feel like for that price you could get a Topping PA5, E50 DAC (comes with remote), and an Nvidia Shield to make it a network streamer (you could do EQ on there) Not as easy to set up but top of the line stuff

[@michaelsrensen8027]

I think you get the Denon all wrong. I have the musical fidelity m5si and m6si. So good and balanced. I had the Audiolab for to days, while it controls bass really nicely, it just never came across as an special product. I’ve owned several denon integrated from PMA-2000R, PMA-1500R and AE to now having a small PMA-800NE. The sound is lush. But pair it with and pair of old Snell J2’s with high sensitivity and put on some Diane Krall lets say…then you’ll get the sound. The looks completely backs the lush sound. It’s bulky. So in 2022 where everything has to be the same and conform, Denon is just true to their sound. It does jazz so well. More so than lots of amps. Try it again with the cornwalls, with Krall. Kristie really needs to have a more timeless approach to design😂

[@rjmoyer2]

Feel like the Marantz PM7000N should also get mentioned as an integrated amp fighting with this Denon and others in the price range.

[@bolinbrooke7189]

Yes, I beleive it is the pick of those mentioned, if just a tiny amount more expensive ($100-$200).

[@westcoast708]

Hi guys hope u r well .Does the denon have a hdmi arc input ? ))

[@KristiWright]

All covered in the review. No HDMI.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Covered in the video my friend.

[@westcoast708]

I missed that part ran to get my coffee )).

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

You're forgiven :)

[@Adrian-jh5cr]

Maybe I'm just old but when you say stream music is that strickly like tidal? I mostly listen to KZbin music via Tv and my technics sl1800 turn table. Am I doing this wrong? I do like music quite a bit and listen via 2 channel set up. How do I get the best sound to my martin logan speakers.

[@boitumelomatsho6874]

Me always listen to music on KZbin 👌

[@JoshHare85]

Hey Kristi & Andrew 👋 great review, I’d really like to know your thoughts on the Sonos Amp if you have any? It has HDMI ARC (eARC not necessary because it’s only PCM 2.0) it has a sub out and dual Ethernet ports for pass through? Thanks 👍

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

We have not heard the Sonos amp.

[@JoshHare85]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews No worries, thanks for the reply! Have a great weekend

[@LencoTB]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews I love when you review AMPs with HDMI. Something that is a must for me. You are my go to channel when I look for reviews. Just bought LS50 Metas and totally confused which amp to choose. Nad is confusing like you said in your C399 video. If only Hegel had HDMI. Greetings from Denmark 🇩🇰

[@iarvanit]

With so many option out there i don't think Denon is the right choose for Stereo receiver. In any case I am waiting desperately and hoping for a review for the Arcam SA30.

[@bikdav]

Andrew: Concerning the B speaker terminals being above the A terminals, my PIONEER ELITE A20 integrated amplifier is like that also.

[@NeerajGMn]

Hey, great videos! Please do review the nakmichi sound bar. The 9 channel one with two subwoofers.

[@Carl-bd1rf]

Ha, I owned a higher end Denon amp years ago and when you said “recessed” sound you caught my attention. I couldn’t get passed that very sound of the Denon I had. Not that’s it’s bad just didn’t fit my taste.

[@andywilliams7298]

I had the exact same reaction. "Recessed" is the word I've been looking for to describe what I don't like about Denon for years.

[@Carl-bd1rf]

@@andywilliams7298 Right!! I’ve been arguing with other KZbin audio folks that the words we use to describe what we hear are critical. They’re like nah it really doesn’t matter, better is better!! So someone says ya the X brand is better than the Denon, that means nothing to me. But when Andrew said “recessed” my neck almost broke as it turned!!😂😂

[@hawkeyed77]

How do you tell how good a speaker, amplifier combination, sound system etc is assuming that you have not heard the original sound track or music as it was originally meant to be heard ? Does it all come down to the decision that you like these over the those, because personal taste kicks in to dictate your choice? I guess this would be the case even if you listen to the same soundtrack or music on all different systems, none may sound all that close to the original production at the end of the day. It's all about personal choice I would suggest ;-Q

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Well, I do it one of two ways. I use the SAME music in EVERY evaluation, some of which I have had the good fortune to hear from the artist themselves to know what it was they were after when recording. I also use my own voice to help me judge tone and whatnot as I can literally speak (or play a recording of myself) in the room my speakers are in to see/hear how they differ. These are just two methods I use, but they're not the only two.

[@pawelzaorski9158]

Hi Andrew! another review, another very good and interesting one. I wanted to ask for your opinion how this denon plays in relation to the AVR 3700 that you recently assessed? Which one is better for you and how do you like the B&W 606 S2 AE to pair with them? I know606 are not your favorite ones, but still😏 All the best from Poland😄

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

The AVR has a little more dynamic sound and doesn't come across as laid back or recessed as the 900 here. I do not like the B&W 600 Series at all, which is why when asked for my opinion on them I don't typically recommend them. Have a great day!

[@KristiWright]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews Worst speakers I've ever heard next to the Rega Kyte. This amp might make them more tolerable though. Key word "might".

[@pawelzaorski9158]

Thank you both😀 Already looking for the next review. BTH I have 606 S2 and love them😂🤣

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

That's all that matters, Pawel! Thanks for watching.

[@filipepaninho6558]

Like! Denon alternative to the Marantz PM7000N?

[@SeanVedell]

Nice amp. Is there an A/V receiver version?

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I don't know if there is a DIRECT receiver comparison but we have a Denon receiver that MAY be the surround sound equivalent so stay tuned. Thanks for tuning in and hanging out with us Sean. Hope all is well!

[@SeanVedell]

Always a good time hanging with you both. Hi Kristi!!!

[@KristiWright]

@@SeanVedell Morning!!

[@markd4292]

Curious if the sound of this Denon is equal to the Denon 1700NE?

[@KristiWright]

We haven't heard the 1700NE.

[@markd4292]

@@KristiWright Thanks. I'm searching for a good marriage for the SF Lumina 5, have my option down to two amps: Arcam SA20 or SA30 or Unison Research Unico Primo. I also keep flip-flopping between getting the Lumina 5, the Model 5, and the Forte IV. But gosh, I was really impressed with the SF it gave me that Forte sound albeit without the bass and the price tag. Thanks.

[@KristiWright]

@@markd4292 We still haven't heard Arcam though we've requested those units going on 2 years at this point. Heard others say a lot of good things about them though. For me the Model 5 is in last position of your three options. I think you'll be happy regardless if you go with either of the other two. I think the Forte will be the trickiest to power correctly.

[@filipviljamaasvensson]

I have the 1700ne and I can't imagine them sounding the same, especially if you plan to use a separate DAC. It's in Analog Mode 2 the 1700ne shines the most, in my opinion. (The 900 doesn't have this feature)

[@markd4292]

@@KristiWright Me again :) I totally agree with you're input about the speakers. Watching Andrew's reviews I have noticed that I have very similar tastes in sound and it's welcoming to find reviewers who have similar tastes and give sound advice as you two do so well. It's a bummer Arcam didn't reach out to you two for reviews. I have heard both of them and they are very nice, the SA30 is much better. Warm, full, powerful sound. BTW: Congrats on your new home. That is an awesome wall, it looks like acoustic treatment? And you guys do an awesome post production video work, and the lightening is very natural. What kind of lighting are you using? I am considering doing reaction videos and researching how to start, lighting, etc. Thank you and stay well.

[@tonezou3918]

Sorry for the deviation, but can you please review the SVS Ultra towers somehow? They are a hype (I think), people say they are insane for the money and I really need your advice as well, because I'm stuck hovering over the "buy" button for years.

[@zarusobaman7084]

This video is really for me, now i have axr100 plan to upgrade it to pma900 or cxa81. I only care about the sound and i have a large room (4mx7m). Which amps you prefer to change for upgrade andrew? The plus point for denon is already have apple airplay so i dint need another streamer . But for the sound only should i change to cxa81 or pma900 or stick to my axr100. Thanks

[@sdrtcacgnrjrc]

Did you like the AXR100? And did you change?

[@zarusobaman7084]

@@sdrtcacgnrjrc i love axr100 now i use cxa81. Both are great . And then my friend bring me marantz amp. Cambridge audio sound much better

[@J0hnny8ravo]

I think your lady is getting better and better at summing up an otherwise great review. Cheers!