The Japanese philosophy embodies the idea of being “slow to prepare, yet quick to act.” In this context, it can be rephrased as: “a decisive strike of a samurai sword must be preceded by thorough and contemplative reflection.” The newly launched Denon DCD-2500NE player and Denon PMA-2500NE amplifier were developed with a heightened awareness of design principles. Denon engineers focused on eliminating unnecessary elements by streamlining audio pathways to achieve optimal signal clarity, minimizing both electrical and acoustic interference. They also considered contemporary audio trends, leading to the inclusion of a built-in USB-DAC in the integrated amplifier, allowing the PMA-2500NE to connect directly to a computer. This new series is designated as 2500 NE. Notably, the development involved both innovative young engineers and seasoned professionals from the company, resulting in bold design choices that are rooted in Denon’s rich history and expertise accumulated over many years.
The Denon PMA-2500NE amplifier is equipped with a sophisticated single push-pull circuit design that incorporates UHC-MOS field-effect transistors in its output stages. This configuration allows it to deliver exceptionally high currents, reaching up to 210 A at peak, which translates to impressive output power, linearity, and remarkable sound detail and purity. A protection circuit continuously monitors the temperature of these transistors in real time. The power supply features two transformers centrally located on a reinforced sub-chassis, ensuring separate power for both digital and analog circuits. Additionally, high-speed Schottky diodes are utilized in the rectification process. This model provides an output of 2 x 160 W at 4 Ohms.
The Denon PMA-2500NE amplifier significantly enhances performance and functionality compared to its predecessor, the PMA-2020. Its “Simple & Straight” signal processing circuit is designed to reduce distortion, allowing for a more authentic and natural sound experience. With exceptional craftsmanship, innovative Denon technologies, and cutting-edge network connectivity, the PMA-2500NE stands out as a pinnacle of audio engineering. To achieve a harmonious blend of delicate musical details and robust sound, the amplifier employs Ultra High Current MOS (UHC-MOS) FETs, which utilize fewer amplifying components to deliver nearly ten times the current of traditional circuits, resulting in an ideal fusion of artistic expression and high output power.
The Direct Mechanical Ground chassis features a precision vibration-resistant design that effectively eliminates vibrations and minimizes any adverse effects on the output signal quality. Its architecture consists of six independent blocks along with a large, high-precision volume control potentiometer, which work together to reduce external noise and prevent interference among the amplifier’s components. The Denon PMA-2500NE amplifier is outfitted with two power transformers housed in a mounting unit that mutually suppress magnetic field leakage, thereby reducing noise and preventing transformer leakage. Every component in this device has been meticulously chosen to ensure the exceptional sound quality that Denon is renowned for.
Additionally, the inclusion of a high-quality phono equalizer (MM/MC) makes the PMA-2500NE particularly appealing to vinyl enthusiasts. To optimize sound quality from analog inputs, the amplifier features an Analog Mode that disables unused circuits, such as the digital input circuit. With a USB-B port located on the rear panel, the Denon PMA-2500NE meets the demands of even the most discerning high-resolution audio aficionados. It can play music files up to 384 kHz/32-bit and DSD files up to 11.2 MHz from a computer, delivering outstanding studio-quality sound. The source and sampling frequency are conveniently displayed on the OLED screen located on the front panel.
Asynchronous mode minimizes jitter and provides exceptional isolation around the USB-B port, effectively blocking external noise from interfering with the sensitive audio components. This ensures that digital audio files are reproduced with the highest fidelity. Prior to reaching the pre-amplification stage via the integrated high-quality DAC, all digital signals undergo meticulous processing using Advanced AL32 Processing Plus, Denon’s latest technology, which precisely reconstructs the shape of the analog pulse. This careful restoration of data lost during digital recording results in a clean, detailed sound that is free from distortion, accurately localized, rich in low frequencies, and closely resembles the original audio.
The slightly curved front panel, made of aluminum, features a prominent motorized analog volume control knob at its center. To the right, an OLED display shows the input, signal type, and sampling frequency, along with an input selector. On the left side, there is a power/standby button equipped with an LED indicator, a 6.3 mm headphone jack, tone and balance controls, Source Direct buttons (which bypass the tone and balance adjustments), and an Analog Mode switch (which disables digital circuits and the display for a purely analog sound experience).
The device features four linear RCA inputs, along with MM/MC phono preamp connectors equipped with a relay switch for the appropriate cartridge. It includes RCA connections for direct access to the final stage, as well as two optical and coaxial inputs. An asynchronous USB port is available for computer connectivity. The amplifier circuits are designed to be shielded from interference caused by computers and other digital devices. Additionally, there is a recording output and IR connectors for both input and output. The unit also provides four pairs of screw terminals for speaker connections.
Denon PMA-2500NE specifications:
- Output power 2 x 80 W (20 Hz – 20 kHz, 8 Ohm, THD 0.07%); 2 x 160 W (4 Ohm, 1 kHz, THD 0.7%)
- Frequency Response 5 Hz – 100 kHz (0, – 3 dB)
- Total Harmonic Distortion 0.01%
- Input Sensitivity/Input Impedance 135 mV/47 kOhm (Line Input), 0.2 mV/100 kOhm (MC Phono Input), 2.5 mV/47 kOhm (MM Phono Input)
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio 110 dB (Line Input), 74 dB (MC), 89 dB (MM)
- Tone Controls Treble: ±8 dB at 10 kHz, Bass: ±8 dB at 100 Hz
- Digital Processing Technology Advanced AL32 Processing Plus
- PCM1795 DAC
- Analog Mode Function 2 modes: 1) disables only the digital circuits, 2) disables digital circuits and display
- Source Direct function bypasses the signal from the tone block and balance control
- OLED display can be switched off, with brightness control function
- Inputs 4 linear RCA, MM/MC phono preamplifier input, unregulated RCA input for direct access to the final section, 2 optical (24 bit/192 kHz), 2 coaxial (24 bit/192 kHz), asynchronous USB (PCM 32 bit/384 kHz, DSD 2.8/5.6/11.2 MHz)
- Outputs 6.3 mm for headphones, recording output (RCA)
- Other connections two IR ports (input/output), ground terminal Speaker
- output 4 pairs of gold-plated screw terminals
- Power supply 2 transformers mounted in such a way that the magnetic flux they emit is mutually suppressed; fast Schottky diodes in the rectifier; high-capacity capacitors
- Power consumption 310 W, in standby mode: 0.2 W
- Remote control RC-1207, universal
- Dimensions (WxHxD) 434x182x431 mm
- Weight 25 kg
