John
Looking to step up from a Bluesound NODE, Logitech Squeezebox Touch or Raspberry Pi? Denon wants you to consider its new wireless-or-wired DNP-2000NE.
At the core of the DNP-2000NE is the multi-room-capable HEOS streaming system that gives us control apps for Android and iOS and integrates Tidal, SoundCloud, Deezer and Amazon Music (but not Qobuz). HEOS will also play back content from a local file server or USB storage device hooked into its back panel but for those who prefer to use their own control apps, the DNP-2000NE also supports Apple AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect.
The D/A conversion circuit that takes those precious incoming music streams and turns them into analogue is built around a quad of ESS ES9018K2M Reference DAC chip run in “double-differential-mode”. Those are supported by Denon’s own Ultra AL32 Processing Plus sample rate conversion maths and master clock system.
But the DNP-2000NE isn’t just for music streams. It can be used as a standalone DAC where its five rear-panel digital inputs – 2 x TOSLINK, 1 x coaxial, 1 x USB and 1 x HDMI ARC – give third-party components such TVs, games consoles and CD players access to its internal DAC; and that USB input is compatible with DSD128 streams and PCM up to 32bit/384KHz.
Whichever sources we opt for, connect the DNP-2000NE can be connected to an integrated amplifier via its fixed outputs; or to a power amplifier via its variable outputs; or to a third-party DAC using one of its coaxial or TOSLINK digital outputs. And a front panel 6.4mm socket keeps headphones in play.
Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri compatible plus an IR wand round out the feature set.
Pricing says hello at US$1599. Your choice of black or silver. Shipping begins at the end of the month.
Further information: Denon
