Denon DNP-2000NE Review
Denon labels the DNP-2000NE as a Hi-Res audio streamer. But even a quick look at the back reveals: It’s actually a complete digital preamplifier that can even serve as a bridge to the TV screen.
by Stefan Schickedanz
There are plenty of HiFi enthusiasts who, even in times of Sonos and the like, are happy to spend $ on individual components like a network player—provided it sounds good and has visual and tactile appeal. In this respect, Denon could have taken the easy route and designed the DNP-2000NE simply as a Hi-Res audio streamer, as per the official declaration.
Then, however, you would hardly find an HDMI input with ARC on its back. And it probably wouldn’t have so many digital inputs and outputs. Above all, they would certainly have omitted the second analog high-level output. This can be volume-controlled via the supplied remote control, while the left pair of RCA sockets always outputs a fixed level.
Other streamers, which follow the general trend of not committing to a specific role model, usually only offer the option to dive into a menu to switch between fixed and variable output levels. Clearly, the prominent stereo preamp output defines the actual DNA of the DNP-2000NE. Here, the pre-amp is not just an interesting side role. The Denon is actually a digital preamp that can also be integrated as a Hi-Res source into an existing HiFi system that follows the common setup of source, amplifier, and speakers.
Hub Concert
But you can also use it as a digital hub to expand the connectivity of your conventional HiFi system with its total of five USB and S/PDIF inputs plus Bluetooth and AirPlay interfaces. After all, using Denon’s HEOS app, you can also integrate NAS music archives or online streaming services like Spotify, Tidal, or Amazon HD.
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When you consider this flexibility and range of functions, the whole package is already enticing, even before you delve into what Denon has once again been able to improve in its proven 32-bit converter principle, which now goes by the name Ultra AL32 Processing. It sounds good and is also supposed to make an audible difference.
In any case, the DNP-2000NE contains a lot of effort and Denon’s own initiative. Anyone who removes the lid of the solid metal housing will have plenty to see. This is not just because the carefully separated digital and analog sections spread out in the entire 43.4 x 10.7 x 42.1 cm housing, or because of the two EI transformers. The icing on the cake is likely Denon’s own board for Ultra AL32 Processing. Denon is thinking, as the clearly visible print emphasizes, of testers and interested laypeople who open up their network streamer to enjoy the technology.
At its center is a large chip from the Chinese semiconductor manufacturer Efinix. It is a freely programmable FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) from the Trion T20 series. So, the Japanese have once again taken matters into their own hands regarding 32-bit processing of digital audio data.
No Gimmicks
The DNP-2000NE supports 11.2-MHz DSD and 32-bit/384-kHz PCM audio. For conversion to analog waveforms, Denon relies on four D/A converters of the type ESS ES9018K2M—a pure 2-channel stereo DAC for high-quality audio components. Its integrated oversampling digital filters are not used, and the DNP-2000NE doesn’t offer any gimmicks like switchable filter characteristics. However, those who like gadgets can control their Hi-Res player via Google Assistant or, after activating the appropriate skills, via Amazon’s Alexa app using voice commands.
The reproduction of voices was among the strengths in the listening test. They sounded not only detailed, balanced, and finely nuanced. The extremely precise imaging with perfect localization of soloists between the speakers was particularly convincing. The punch and high transparency also scored points. The latter especially benefited the reproduction of violin concerts due to the fine overtone resolution.
Denon DNP-2000NE Performance Measured
Linear frequency responses at the line output with PCM digital sound (fs 192/96/44.1 kHz) as well as at the headphone output loaded with 32 Ω (purple). Relative proportion of the first four distortion harmonics in the total signal (below): The line signal is very low in distortion even at 4 V (0.008% at 2 V), only k2 (red) and k3 (green) increase slightly with increasing output level, which is adjustable over a range of 100 dB in 0.5 dB steps. Noise at 2 V: 115 dB (A-weighted). The headphone output with infinitely variable potentiometer volume control is ideal for 250 Ω models: output impedance 95 Ω, output voltage and power 2.2 V (150 mW) at 32 Ω and 7.1 V (170 mW) at 300 Ω. Power consumption with network standby and in operation: 1.2 and 20 W respectively.
Specs
Technical Data
- Brand/Model: Denon DNP-2000NE
- Website: denon.com
- Warranty: 5 years (with registration)
- Dimensions (W × H × D): 43.4 × 10.7 × 42.1 cm
- Weight: 9.7 kg
Connections
- CD/DVD/BD Drive: No
- USB: Yes (●)
- Analog Output: Fixed, Variable
- Digital Output (Coax/Optical): Yes (●/●)
- Network: LAN/WLAN
Features
- Display / On-Screen Display: Yes (●/–)
- Fast Forward / Rewind: No
- Bluetooth / AirPlay: Yes (●/●)
- Cover Display: Yes (via App)
- Streaming Services: Spotify, Tidal, Amazon HD
- Internet Radio / Provider: Yes (●/–)
- Supported Audio Formats: MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC, ALAC, WAV
- Max Resolution / Bitrate: 32-bit / 384 kHz
- Remote Control / App Control: No/Yes (–/●)
- Gapless Playback: Yes (●)
- Required Server: UPnP DLNA, Roon
- Special Features: Preamp outputs
Verdict
Pros & Cons
✅ Excellent sound quality
✅ Versatile connectivity
✅ Can be used as a preamplifier
❌ App is not always intuitive
Ratings
- Sound Quality: 10/10 (original rating: 120)
- Features: 9/10 (original rating: “very good”)
- Ease of Use: 9/10 (original rating: “very good”)
- Build Quality: 9/10 (original rating: “very good”)
Audio Benchmark
- Overall Score: 120 points
- Price/Performance: Very Good (9/10)
The undercover pre-amp in the guise of a streamer is a complete success and interesting for many applications.
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