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Denon x4700h DAC change

Hello 'PRO'S",

was hoping to get an expert opinion.. I have the Denon 4700h. I can still return it. Previously, it had the AKM 4458 DAC. Now, it has the TI PCM5102A DAC. Is this a notable decrease in performance from the chips. From what I am reading, it seems that these chips are inferior to AKM. The original test bench showed very good results with AKM. I searched high and low for tests on the PCM 5102A  with zero luck. 

 

Thanks,

Anthony

128x128antho768
antho768's avatar
antho768 OP
16 posts
 

Thanks for the info. I am leaning towards keeping it. I have my faith in Denon. Thanks for your research much appreciated.

jasonbourne52's avatar
jasonbourne52
2,863 posts
 

Keep it! I am sure the measured performance and sound is the same as the earlier version. Denon is a major mfgr - not a cut-and-try boutique audio company.

soix
9,540 posts
 

The DAC chip is only one part of the digital chain, and as noted above Denon seems to have redesigned the circuit to “tune the sound” around the new chip, so given that I’d be surprised if there’s a huge difference in sound. I’d just keep it, especially since you seem to like how the unit sounds. 

pmm
232 posts
 

it seems that these chips are inferior to AKM

It is not the chips that make the DAC. Its how they are implemented in the design and manufacture of the converter.

but could it sound better?

You`ll have to compare it to another mfr`s DAC.

antho768's avatar
antho768 OP
16 posts
 

Thanks for taking the time to chime in everyone. Much appreciated! I knew this could be the go to place to help me with my decision.

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