The Denon PMA-800NE amplifier has succeeded the earlier PMA-720AE model within Denon’s esteemed 700-series lineup. Positioned in the mid-range Hi-Fi category, the PMA-800NE features a robust anti-vibration metal chassis and boasts an impressive aesthetic appeal. The meticulously crafted front aluminum panel showcases a well-organized layout of all components, a hallmark of Denon’s design philosophy. The input selector is conveniently placed on the right, while the prominent volume control is centered. Flanking these controls are buttons for speaker selection (A and B). On the left side, users will find the power button, a 6.3 mm headphone jack, as well as controls for loudness, Source Direct, tone, and balance. The newly designed remote control, which also manages various other Denon devices, emphasizes user-friendly operation and ergonomic design.
The integrated DAC features the proprietary Advanced AL32 digital processing algorithm, supporting PCM input signals of 192 kHz / 24 bits. It includes three optical and one coaxial digital inputs. In analog mode, the PMA-800NE disables the dedicated digital power supply and halts the digital input circuit, thereby preventing any high-frequency interference with the analog section. To minimize cross-talk between the Phono circuits, preamplifier, and power amplifier circuits, a “Separated Signal Level Design (SLDC)” is employed, ensuring distinct layouts for each circuit. The rear panel of the Denon PMA-800NE amplifier is equipped with four analog inputs, one coaxial digital input, three optical digital inputs, and a phono preamplifier connector compatible with both MM and MC cartridges. Additionally, it features outputs for connecting a recording device (RCA) and a ground terminal for a turntable. The amplifier also allows for the connection of two sets of speakers via four pairs of screw terminals.
The Denon PMA-800NE amplifier features a high-current push-pull circuit constructed with discrete components, ensuring exceptional detail and sufficient power output. The design incorporates Schottky diodes, and the output stages utilize reliable, high-quality transistors. This amplifier boasts an extended dynamic range, making it suitable for playback of audio formats such as BD, DVD-Audio, and SACD. Notably, it includes high-capacity capacitors in the power supply and an efficient power transformer with separate windings for audio and control circuits. The output power is rated at 85 W for a 4-ohm load and 50 W for an 8-ohm load. Additionally, the loudness mode enhances low-frequency response at lower volume levels, while the Source Direct function bypasses tone controls, balance, and loudness adjustments to maintain signal integrity.
The Denon PMA-800NE stereo amplifier delivers a sound profile marked by a transparent and crystal-clear high-frequency range, a rich and natural midrange, and adequate bass response. Additionally, the remote control for the PMA-800NE amplifier is compatible with the Denon DCD-800NE CD player.
Denon PMA-800NE specifications
- Nominal output power 85 W per channel (4 Ohm, 1 kHz, with a harmonic coefficient of 0.7%); 50 W per channel (8 ohms, 20 Hz – 20 kHz, 0.07% THD)
- Frequency Response 20 Hz – 50 kHz
- THD 0.01% (8 ohms, 1 kHz)
- Input Sensitivity/Input Impedance 120 mV/47 kOhm
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio 107 dB (DIRECT mode)
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio (MM phono preamplifier) 86 dB
- Bass Tone Control (100 Hz): ±8 dB; HF (10 kHz): ±8 dB
- Analog input × 4, PHONO input (MM / MC) × 1, Coaxial digital input × 1, optical digital input × 3
- Outputs Analog audio output (RECORDER) × 1, headphone output × 1
- Other connections two connectors for an IR repeater, a terminal for connecting the ground wire of a vinyl record player
- Speaker output 4 pairs of high-quality screw terminals
- Power consumption 200 W
- Power consumption in standby mode 0.3 W
- Remote control
- Dimensions (WxHxD) 434x122x307 mm
- Weight 7.5 kg
