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Denon DP-A100 - is it that bad?

Maybe I sorta have the DD itch, maybe I dont. Picked up a used 1210 a little while back for giggles. It's definitely pretty good but doesnt blow me away. My plan is to build it into a nice wood sandbox plinth and use it in my family/party room which I'm currently renovating - maybe I'll also add an Audio Mods Rega arm too. My prize belt drive SOTA Star with Jelco arm is substantially better overall though and according to my tech who serviced it a ways back, the speed was bang on and consistent, so it doesnt falter there either.

Now I see the Denon anniversary table has hit the market at $1000-$1100 below it's original list. Well its reel purty, but some reviews, ie a thread on AK, are not so complimentary. Has anyone here had a chance to live with it for awhile? Especially been able to compare it to something like my SOTA? Please, no jacked up answers from guys looking to rid themselves of theirs anytime soon....LOL
Does it make sense at $1400 or is it just a dog at half that still? If it's actually better, I may flip the 1210 for it.
mickeyf
glenfihi
525 posts
 
Would like to know myself, as I have a interest in the turntable. The few reviews I've read from buyers rate it highly. Find it hard too believe that Denon would make a dog for there 100 year statement turntable.
mickeyf OP
153 posts
 
Glen, as I peel the onion, there's not a lot of love for it, which of course rationalized the steep price drops. A buddy who's an industry insider tells me the Chinese content is high and that it's assembled there. Suggests a lot of new $1500 tables should blow the doors off it.
Im a big fan of buying used at a price that can be recovered if you're not fond of the piece. This one is starting to look a bit odious.
glenfihi
525 posts
 
Mickey, some sites still have the turntable at the original list, along with some of the other anniversary units. Best to scout around for those interested. Should it be made in China it should certainly sell for less in my view at least. Some comments I have read, the objection seems too be that it not enough of a upgrade over some of the previous models.
The price drop on the Denon really caught my attention.In that price range the Clearaudio and VPI brands are on my short list. Sounds like my current Thorens and thirty year old Technics turntable will keep on spinning. I would like to get one last well made turntable to run with for the next several years.
mickeyf OP
153 posts
 
I'm told Bay Bloor Radio in Toronto has one on 'display' and I may check it out. If they dont have it in a playing system that's another black mark. Glen your main system is pretty sweet, you should definitely be looking considerably farther up the food chain for your vinyl source.
glenfihi
525 posts
 
Thanks Mickey for your comment on my system. Alas... my sons tuition eats up most all the food in the chain.
Please post your findings, should you be able to audition the Denon.
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