I have owned this amp for almost 3 years. Pires with a REL 7x sub and Bower & Wilkens with the torpedo tweeter on top. Lovely sound stage, rich buttery presentation and tons of power with very detailed tone decays. On both mediums CD and vinyl. Unfortunately I paid 2100 USD’s for it. But well worth it. Turntable Technics 2100 GA with bronze Ortofon. CD Harman Kardon bought new in Dec 1989. Still works like a charm. The backgound on this amp is blank ink velvet. Absolutely quiet. Of course I am using an Ortofon MM cartridge. I don’t know what a coil cartridge would sound on this amp. But that being said and for the variety of music I play (from Maria Callas to PetShop Boys) including jazz, rock and RB this amp is a keeper. Cheers!
@@georgesmith5598 I have tried them with 4 different speakers. Martin Logan Motion 40’s (very good) Polk L200’s (very good) Polk R200’s (great) Definitive Technology Demand D11 (very good)
I have mentioned before on your channel. I have the Arcam SA20 great unit. You reviewed the Rega Aethos and that has taking things into a different level. I got that last month I was considering this unit was well. I have not listen to it as of now. Great channel keep it up.
I hope to see more reviews on power amplifiers and preamps! One amplifier I believe to be quite special if I am not mistaken, the Rotel RB-1552 MkII. I like your approach to reviews and will continue to watch. Cheers!
Excellent review, well thought, straight forward, and informative. I own this amp and use it with both cd and phono. Really appreciated the advice on streaming which I plan to add shortly.
Hi! I have the bigger brother Denon 2500NE as well as a Marantz Model 30 with my Goldenear Triton speakers and Denafrips Pontus Dac. The Denon is more forward and lively sounding compare to the Marantz Model 30. It has greater PRAT or speed to the Bass too. The opposite to what you said, but my reference is the Marantz. Both are beasts when it comes to power. You think the 1600 is built like a tank, try lifting the 2500, I've had back pains. Where the Marantz wins is the pitch black background and insane resolution from it Class D power section. I go back and forth when I get bored with one sound, you cant go wrong, both are high end amps. The real surprise with the Denon is the internal DAC when fed through the Denafrips Hermes DDC, is almost identical to the Pontus in resolution, tone and imaging. Not Kidding, I was shocked.
just subscribed to your channel. very interesting comparisons and simply great you are the only reviewer I've watched who LOVES jazz (hey! jamal, charlap, evans!!) and piano music in general. i am a musician and play piano jazz (not professionally) but piano music (also classical)is part of my daily diet. i also listen to a lot of classical music and love a natural, detailed, dynamic presentation. from your review, the Denon is not for me, but between the arcam and the rega you also reviewed, which one would your prefer for natural sound? my source is 70% CDs (Audiolab 6000A transport) and 30% Lps (Audiotechnica AT-LP120). I will be upgrading from an Audiolab 6000A I love, but I feel lacks a bit of power/grip when listening at lower volumes. I was thinking of the Arcam SA20 as a reasonable upgrade??
Hi, I've owned this amp for nearly a year, you SIR have summed it up perfectly in every way, fantastic sounding amp but I have also noticed the slight softening of the leading edges of bass notes which I think is this amp's only real weakness, it kind of blurs certain bass notes wheas the rega has a more solid tuneful bass/midbass. Personally though I found the denon had better treble and mid resolution than the Rega (smoother and cleaner) both very good amplifiers though. If you have bright speakers and need a built in DAC this amp is a dream and being made in Japan should last a good many years fault free. Regarding the MM phono input, like you say it is impressively detailed and quiet for a built in phono, but I did find it a little too bright with my Audio Technica 540ML cartridge so bought the iFi Zen phono to try which matched my cartridge and this amp much better, The iFi Zen is a little wonder, it's detailed, open sounding with tight deep bass and is also pretty quiet, amazing piece of tech for £150 UK .. and better than BOTH the Rega Fono and Musical fidelity LX-LPS I tried before, I really enjoy listening to my Vinyl through the zen and the Denon now. In fact, it does everything so well I can't see myself selling it on for a different amp just because of the slightly warm soft bass. Just dont pair it with soft warm sounding speakers and you should be just fine.
@@georgesmith5598 Currently Elac DBR62 Reference. But I am going over to NEAT Acoustics soon. I wouldn't recommend this combo together tho, a little too warm. Probably work Better with Focal Aria 906, Q Acoustics, or Monitor Audio or even Dali if you love treble.
@@georgesmith5598 No, I meant the Denon/Elac pairing is too warm, I am hoping that the Denon/Neat combo will be less so. Which Neat speakers do you have with the Denon? Was looking at the new Neat Petite classic or maybe another small Neat bookshelf. How are you finding the Neat/Denon pairing?
Thanks for the review. I am considering this amp. Unfortunately, there was not one mention of the headphone section which will be very important for me.
@@analogholic_reviews Hi Rohit. Just came across. This review. How would You compare the sound quality of the Rega Elex MK4 with the denon pma 1600 ne. Can You please compare the bass, midrange, treble and soundstage of both amplifiers.
@@agnelroshandsilva3929 Hello! I must say that I prefer the Elex Mk4 over the Denon. Bass is more defined via Elex. Initially the Denon may seem more, but you may realize it is underdamped at times in comparison. Mids are warm on both with Rega having more detail. The treble is also warm on both, with Rega having the better balance on detail and sweetness. I would say they are both equal in terms of soundstage... That really depends on your speaker and room and neither will hold your speakers back.
@@analogholic_reviews Thanks Rohit for that detailed comparison. Really appreciate it. Have You heard the Audiolab 7000a? What are Your views on that one?
the amp is worth its retail price. But, it's already being replaced by the pma1700ne. The new amp is the same in almost every way, however the cartridge selector is now on the front and the new amp has a pre-out which the pma1600ne does not have.
Hi Rohit! Great review of good old denon…..the inflation is crazy …my pride and joy is a Japanese made 2008 denon 2808CI receiver, I paid $1200 at that time!….I run my schiit bifrost DAC into and boy it’s got some slam thru the BW 606s (I use a sub too)!
Just recently discovered your channel and am really enjoying your reviews especially since they cover a few amps that were already on my short list. So here's my question: If you could only keep one, based on sound quality alone, which would it be? Thanks
Thanks, Mike! Oh boy tough question. I’d keep the Rega Aethos if I could with the integrated amps I’ve reviewed! But between the Denon and the Arcam IDK not entirely satisfied. But if forced to chose, the Denon it is.
@@analogholic_reviews Thanks for your answer. I was hoping you chose the Croft which would reinforce my urge to order one despite its quirky nature and poor resale value.
Fantastic review! How do you think this amp would pair with the KLH model 5’s? Any chance of a review coming on those? Did you run the outboard phono preamps through the “CD” line out?
I've tried this combination (I own the 5's). The Denon drives the 5's extremely well and the sound is pretty effortless. The Denon will add a very smooth, lush, but borderline dark presentation to the 5's (unless you hit the source direct button, but with that you'll be trading off the muscular presentation of the amp depending on your source). The Denon also moves the soundstage to in line with the speakers, if not somewhat laid back. If you find the 5's a bit shouty at high levels or want to bump them towards the warmer side of things and love strong bass, the Denon is for you. I might give the 1700ne a shot because I hear it's more resolving than the 1600ne.
Hi, recently discovered your channel and really liked your approach and experience. Very few reviews on the pma1600 on the internet and you did a great job of filling the gap. How would you think it’ll pair with the B&W 606s2 speakers ? Thanks for the content you’re producing
@@analogholic_reviews thanks for your comment Rohit. I did watch your review on the 606 and that’s why I thought you’d be the best to answer the question. The way you review digital section, analog sections, l etc of the equipment separately is awesome and not very people do that kind of reviews. And you earned yourself a new subscriber.
Currently thinking about to buy 1700pma, retails for 1500 EUR in my country. I do use external dac, here my question in order to make sure my understanding? It is adding that unwanted wormth to midbass if you conect source to analog rca input right?
Hi, I have this amp connected to a pair of Athom Gt1 Speakers and sounds really good to my ears(all the things you say and more clarity, resolution and soundstage) However I'm using some cheap inteconects to connect the DAC and streamer. Can you recommend some cables? Which cables are you using? Thanks.
I would try some affordable Chord company interconnects. I have also liked the inexpensive optical audioquest cable. My experience with audioquest interconnects have been hit or miss, with some picking up RFI amd ground loops depending on the system. I thoroughly recommended audioart interconnects.
Thanks for your review. The 1600 is on my short list for a new integrated. The Elex-R. Is also on the list. I know you like the Rega, but I’d appreciate your opinion on the sonic similarities/differences between the two. I don’t stream, so the DAC in the1600 is not a factor. My listening tastes: classical, jazz and rock. Thanks in advance.
I keep trying to get out a comparison video but haven’t had the chance to do so. But in a nutshell, the 1600 has a warmer, lusher presentation across the spectrum than the ElexR. Especially in the mid bass the 1600 seems a bit warmer and on some tracks slightly veiled. Here in this mid bass region the transparency of the ElexR was more appreciated in my system. Overall dynamics, you won’t go wrong with either. But I must say that I loved the built in MC in the 1600. Again, warm and sweet sounding that makes you forget about HiFi gear and just enjoy the tunes. Until the upgrade bug bites 😝. Note that the ElexR only has built in MM.
@@analogholic_reviews Thanks for your response. As I noted in your previous Elex-R YT review, I owned the Elex and sold it to "upgrade" to an Elicit-R which it turned out, had a different sound than the Elex. I sold the Elicit-R and am considering getting another Elex-R or maybe the 1600.
Absolutely! I have not listened to the Lintons but I’ve read that they am an be slightly unrefined up top. But with pairing it with the Denon might just be the ticket.
nice one - would have probably bought this if this had come out a couple of years ago - could you list the kind of speakers which would go well at the comparable price range
I cant really answer for new Denon, but I have had Denon of old. Early 90's and it has been said this has that sound. Warm with focus on mides. Most speakers will sound Good on this amp pending the old Denon sound. With the Exception of B&W or Focal. I would look at a set of Dynaudio's Evoke series. I like the Dyns, Evoke 20 is a great set for the price. Goldenear BRX will sound great too, Those are some very good speakers at any price. Take Care.
I have a Rega Elex-r driving a pair of Dynaudio Emit M30's and I found the sound a bit too aggressive for my taste. Do you think the pma-1600ne would be a good alternative? Thanks
I compared the Denon 1600 to the Roksan Attessa and Kandy k2bt. The high frequencies of the Denon was harsher and quite forward. Both Roksans were smoother. Bit disappointed as I was thinking the Denon would be it but turns out not as smooth.
I have owned this amp for almost 3 years. Pires with a REL 7x sub and Bower & Wilkens with the torpedo tweeter on top. Lovely sound stage, rich buttery presentation and tons of power with very detailed tone decays. On both mediums CD and vinyl. Unfortunately I paid 2100 USD’s for it. But well worth it. Turntable Technics 2100 GA with bronze Ortofon. CD Harman Kardon bought new in Dec 1989. Still works like a charm. The backgound on this amp is blank ink velvet. Absolutely quiet. Of course I am using an Ortofon MM cartridge. I don’t know what a coil cartridge would sound on this amp. But that being said and for the variety of music I play (from Maria Callas to PetShop Boys) including jazz, rock and RB this amp is a keeper. Cheers!
Just picked up this amp for $1499 brand new from an authorized dealer! Very dynamic and terrific midrange.
Hope you’re enjoying it. Which speakers are you using ?
@@georgesmith5598 I have tried them with 4 different speakers.
Martin Logan Motion 40’s (very good)
Polk L200’s (very good)
Polk R200’s (great)
Definitive Technology Demand D11 (very good)
I confirm...terrific clarity. Very refined product. I paired It with two rel t9x subs. It's Heaven.
I have mentioned before on your channel. I have the Arcam SA20 great unit. You reviewed the Rega Aethos and that has taking things into a different level. I got that last month
I was considering this unit was well. I have not listen to it as of now.
Great channel keep it up.
Superb as always ..Very Informative !
I hope to see more reviews on power amplifiers and preamps! One amplifier I believe to be quite special if I am not mistaken, the Rotel RB-1552 MkII. I like your approach to reviews and will continue to watch. Cheers!
Excellent review, well thought, straight forward, and informative. I own this amp and use it with both cd and phono. Really appreciated the advice on streaming which I plan to add shortly.
Hi! I have the bigger brother Denon 2500NE as well as a Marantz Model 30 with my Goldenear Triton speakers and Denafrips Pontus Dac. The Denon is more forward and lively sounding compare to the Marantz Model 30. It has greater PRAT or speed to the Bass too. The opposite to what you said, but my reference is the Marantz. Both are beasts when it comes to power. You think the 1600 is built like a tank, try lifting the 2500, I've had back pains. Where the Marantz wins is the pitch black background and insane resolution from it Class D power section. I go back and forth when I get bored with one sound, you cant go wrong, both are high end amps. The real surprise with the Denon is the internal DAC when fed through the Denafrips Hermes DDC, is almost identical to the Pontus in resolution, tone and imaging. Not Kidding, I was shocked.
Very cool, thanks for sharing this!
just subscribed to your channel. very interesting comparisons and simply great you are the only reviewer I've watched who LOVES jazz (hey! jamal, charlap, evans!!) and piano music in general. i am a musician and play piano jazz (not professionally) but piano music (also classical)is part of my daily diet. i also listen to a lot of classical music and love a natural, detailed, dynamic presentation. from your review, the Denon is not for me, but between the arcam and the rega you also reviewed, which one would your prefer for natural sound? my source is 70% CDs (Audiolab 6000A transport) and 30% Lps (Audiotechnica AT-LP120). I will be upgrading from an Audiolab 6000A I love, but I feel lacks a bit of power/grip when listening at lower volumes. I was thinking of the Arcam SA20 as a reasonable upgrade??
Hi, I've owned this amp for nearly a year, you SIR have summed it up perfectly in every way, fantastic sounding amp but I have also noticed the slight softening of the leading edges of bass notes which I think is this amp's only real weakness, it kind of blurs certain bass notes wheas the rega has a more solid tuneful bass/midbass. Personally though I found the denon had better treble and mid resolution than the Rega (smoother and cleaner) both very good amplifiers though. If you have bright speakers and need a built in DAC this amp is a dream and being made in Japan should last a good many years fault free.
Regarding the MM phono input, like you say it is impressively detailed and quiet for a built in phono, but I did find it a little too bright with my Audio Technica 540ML cartridge so bought the iFi Zen phono to try which matched my cartridge and this amp much better, The iFi Zen is a little wonder, it's detailed, open sounding with tight deep bass and is also pretty quiet, amazing piece of tech for £150 UK .. and better than BOTH the Rega Fono and Musical fidelity LX-LPS I tried before, I really enjoy listening to my Vinyl through the zen and the Denon now. In fact, it does everything so well I can't see myself selling it on for a different amp just because of the slightly warm soft bass. Just dont pair it with soft warm sounding speakers and you should be just fine.
What speakers are you using ?
@@georgesmith5598 Currently Elac DBR62 Reference. But I am going over to NEAT Acoustics soon. I wouldn't recommend this combo together tho, a little too warm. Probably work Better with Focal Aria 906, Q Acoustics, or Monitor Audio or even Dali if you love treble.
Very interesting
I have the Denon pma1600 and neat acoustics !
Do you mean you find denon and neat too warm ?
@@georgesmith5598 No, I meant the Denon/Elac pairing is too warm, I am hoping that the Denon/Neat combo will be less so. Which Neat speakers do you have with the Denon? Was looking at the new Neat Petite classic or maybe another small Neat bookshelf. How are you finding the Neat/Denon pairing?
Nice video, espero que hagas un video sobre el denon pma 1700 ne
I hope sometime soon.
@@analogholic_reviews tengo Rega elex r y quiero el Rega aethos, hay muchas diferencias notorias en el sonido?
Thanks for the review. I am considering this amp. Unfortunately, there was not one mention of the headphone section which will be very important for me.
I’m sorry, Charles. I didn’t have my high quality headphones at the time.
Excellent review, you beautifully explained the amplifier.
Thanks, Vinod!
@@analogholic_reviews
Hi Rohit. Just came across. This review. How would You compare the sound quality of the Rega Elex MK4 with the denon pma 1600 ne. Can You please compare the bass, midrange, treble and soundstage of both amplifiers.
@@agnelroshandsilva3929 Hello! I must say that I prefer the Elex Mk4 over the Denon. Bass is more defined via Elex. Initially the Denon may seem more, but you may realize it is underdamped at times in comparison. Mids are warm on both with Rega having more detail. The treble is also warm on both, with Rega having the better balance on detail and sweetness. I would say they are both equal in terms of soundstage... That really depends on your speaker and room and neither will hold your speakers back.
@@analogholic_reviews
Thanks Rohit for that detailed comparison. Really appreciate it. Have You heard the Audiolab 7000a? What are Your views on that one?
@@agnelroshandsilva3929 most welcome. Unfortunately, I have not listened to any audiolab other than the 6000A.
the amp is worth its retail price. But, it's already being replaced by the pma1700ne. The new amp is the same in almost every way, however the cartridge selector is now on the front and the new amp has a pre-out which the pma1600ne does not have.
ht baypass function on pma 1700ne
1700 also is a bit less congested sounding and sounds more balanced. 1700 is better for some.
Hi Rohit! Great review of good old denon…..the inflation is crazy …my pride and joy is a Japanese made 2008 denon 2808CI receiver, I paid $1200 at that time!….I run my schiit bifrost DAC into and boy it’s got some slam thru the BW 606s (I use a sub too)!
Thanks, Manu! Yes, Denon makes good gear.
Just recently discovered your channel and am really enjoying your reviews especially since they cover a few amps that were already on my short list. So here's my question: If you could only keep one, based on sound quality alone, which would it be?
Thanks
Thanks, Mike! Oh boy tough question. I’d keep the Rega Aethos if I could with the integrated amps I’ve reviewed! But between the Denon and the Arcam IDK not entirely satisfied. But if forced to chose, the Denon it is.
@@analogholic_reviews Thanks for your answer. I was hoping you chose the Croft which would reinforce my urge to order one despite its quirky nature and poor resale value.
Fantastic review! How do you think this amp would pair with the KLH model 5’s? Any chance of a review coming on those?
Did you run the outboard phono preamps through the “CD” line out?
Yes, I did run the o/b phono pres via "CD" in. And, yes ... The KLH 5 would be a solid pairing. Im going to try to get my hands on a pair.
I've tried this combination (I own the 5's). The Denon drives the 5's extremely well and the sound is pretty effortless. The Denon will add a very smooth, lush, but borderline dark presentation to the 5's (unless you hit the source direct button, but with that you'll be trading off the muscular presentation of the amp depending on your source). The Denon also moves the soundstage to in line with the speakers, if not somewhat laid back. If you find the 5's a bit shouty at high levels or want to bump them towards the warmer side of things and love strong bass, the Denon is for you. I might give the 1700ne a shot because I hear it's more resolving than the 1600ne.
Hi, recently discovered your channel and really liked your approach and experience.
Very few reviews on the pma1600 on the internet and you did a great job of filling the gap.
How would you think it’ll pair with the B&W 606s2 speakers ?
Thanks for the content you’re producing
Thanks for the feedback!
I think Denon would make an excellent pairing with the B&W 606s2. Pls do watch my video of the 606s2 review as well 🙏
@@analogholic_reviews thanks for your comment Rohit.
I did watch your review on the 606 and that’s why I thought you’d be the best to answer the question.
The way you review digital section, analog sections, l etc of the equipment separately is awesome and not very people do that kind of reviews.
And you earned yourself a new subscriber.
Thanks again 🙏. This keeps me going!
Hello, I am writing from Italy! congratulations for the review. do you think this amp can go with klipsch rp600m?
Yes sir! I heard it in my system driving the Klipsch rp600mii. Sounded warm, and impactful!
The 1700 addresses your drawbacks with the 1600. Less warm in the mid bass and has better transparency.
I’ve been reading up on them. Very curious!
Currently thinking about to buy 1700pma, retails for 1500 EUR in my country. I do use external dac, here my question in order to make sure my understanding? It is adding that unwanted wormth to midbass if you conect source to analog rca input right?
Hi,
I have this amp connected to a pair of Athom Gt1 Speakers and sounds really good to my ears(all the things you say and more clarity, resolution and soundstage) However I'm using some cheap inteconects to connect the DAC and streamer. Can you recommend some cables? Which cables are you using?
Thanks.
I would try some affordable Chord company interconnects. I have also liked the inexpensive optical audioquest cable. My experience with audioquest interconnects have been hit or miss, with some picking up RFI amd ground loops depending on the system. I thoroughly recommended audioart interconnects.
Thanks for your review. The 1600 is on my short list for a new integrated. The Elex-R. Is also on the list. I know you like the Rega, but I’d appreciate your opinion on the sonic similarities/differences between the two. I don’t stream, so the DAC in the1600 is not a factor. My listening tastes: classical, jazz and rock. Thanks in advance.
I keep trying to get out a comparison video but haven’t had the chance to do so. But in a nutshell, the 1600 has a warmer, lusher presentation across the spectrum than the ElexR. Especially in the mid bass the 1600 seems a bit warmer and on some tracks slightly veiled. Here in this mid bass region the transparency of the ElexR was more appreciated in my system. Overall dynamics, you won’t go wrong with either. But I must say that I loved the built in MC in the 1600. Again, warm and sweet sounding that makes you forget about HiFi gear and just enjoy the tunes. Until the upgrade bug bites 😝. Note that the ElexR only has built in MM.
@@analogholic_reviews Thanks for your response. As I noted in your previous Elex-R YT review, I owned the Elex and sold it to "upgrade" to an Elicit-R which it turned out, had a different sound than the Elex. I sold the Elicit-R and am considering getting another Elex-R or maybe the 1600.
@@michaelmasztal7871 im told there's a newer Elicit coming out. So stay tuned for that!
Will this work with Wharfedale Linton speakers?
Absolutely! I have not listened to the Lintons but I’ve read that they am an be slightly unrefined up top. But with pairing it with the Denon might just be the ticket.
nice one - would have probably bought this if this had come out a couple of years ago - could you list the kind of speakers which would go well at the comparable price range
I cant really answer for new Denon, but I have had Denon of old. Early 90's and it has been said this has that sound. Warm with focus on mides. Most speakers will sound Good on this amp pending the old Denon sound. With the Exception of B&W or Focal. I would look at a set of Dynaudio's Evoke series. I like the Dyns, Evoke 20 is a great set for the price. Goldenear BRX will sound great too, Those are some very good speakers at any price.
Take Care.
Agree with Goldenyear . Perhaps Triangles, Monitor Audio.
@@analogholic_reviews I would too I have a set of Silver 8's I have had them 6 years now. Nice all-round speaker.
I have a Rega Elex-r driving a pair of Dynaudio Emit M30's and I found the sound a bit too aggressive for my taste. Do you think the pma-1600ne would be a good alternative? Thanks
The PMA 1600 is softer in the highs and may work out. Do you have a highly reflective listening room? What is your music source?
I listened to that bill evans album a few weeks ago! I’ll check out the AJ album ..thx!
Will this work with Dynaudio speakers
I believe it will work with 4 ohm speakers quite well
👍
I compared the Denon 1600 to the Roksan Attessa and Kandy k2bt. The high frequencies of the Denon was harsher and quite forward. Both Roksans were smoother. Bit disappointed as I was thinking the Denon would be it but turns out not as smooth.
Don't advertise Roksan, this Denon beats it.
@@Ab-ru1ew just sharing what I heard
$2100? Pish-Tosh! Amazon is selling these for $1300.
I just bought a brand new one for 1250 usd
That's a great deal!
@@analogholic_reviews i know
You must learn to not to cmack when you talk