Denon Dp 400 Vs Audio Technica At-lp5
What To Know
- The Audio-Technica AT-LP5, on the other hand, features a classic turntable design with a solid MDF plinth and a matte black finish.
- The Audio-Technica AT-LP5 offers only RCA outputs, but it does have a built-in switchable phono preamp, giving users the option to connect to systems with or without a dedicated phono stage.
- Both the Denon DP-400 and the Audio-Technica AT-LP5 are well-built, but the Denon DP-400 has a slightly more rigid and durable chassis.
When it comes to high-fidelity audio reproduction, turntables reign supreme. Among the most acclaimed models in the industry are the Denon DP-400 and the Audio-Technica AT-LP5. Both these turntables offer exceptional performance, but they differ in certain key aspects. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the intricate details of the Denon DP-400 vs. Audio-Technica AT-LP5, examining their features, specifications, and how they stack up against each other.
Design and Construction
The Denon DP-400 boasts a sleek and modern design with a minimalist aesthetic. Its chassis is crafted from a combination of MDF and aluminum, providing both rigidity and damping. The Audio-Technica AT-LP5, on the other hand, features a classic turntable design with a solid MDF plinth and a matte black finish. Both turntables are built to withstand the rigors of daily use, ensuring long-lasting performance.
Platter and Drive System
The Denon DP-400 features a heavy, precision-machined aluminum platter with a high-density rubber mat. This combination provides excellent speed stability and reduced resonance. The platter is driven by a DC servo motor with electronic speed control, offering precise and consistent rotation. The Audio-Technica AT-LP5 also employs an aluminum platter, albeit with a slightly lighter weight. Its drive system consists of a belt-driven motor with adjustable speed control, allowing for fine-tuning of platter speed.
Tonearm and Cartridge
The Denon DP-400 is equipped with an S-shaped tonearm with a carbon fiber construction. This tonearm is lightweight and rigid, ensuring accurate tracking and minimal resonance. It comes pre-mounted with a Denon DL-100 cartridge, known for its balanced and detailed sound reproduction. The Audio-Technica AT-LP5 features a J-shaped tonearm with a lightweight aluminum construction. It is also pre-mounted with an Audio-Technica AT95EX cartridge, which offers a warm and dynamic sound profile.
Speed and Pitch Control
Both the Denon DP-400 and the Audio-Technica AT-LP5 support 33 1/3 and 45 RPM playback speeds. The Denon DP-400 offers a quartz-locked speed control system, ensuring precise and stable platter rotation. The Audio-Technica AT-LP5 provides manual speed adjustment, allowing for fine-tuning of playback speed.
Connectivity and Features
The Denon DP-400 comes equipped with both RCA and optical digital outputs, providing flexibility in connecting to a variety of audio systems. It also features a built-in phono preamp, allowing it to be connected directly to an amplifier without the need for an external preamplifier. The Audio-Technica AT-LP5 offers only RCA outputs, but it does have a built-in switchable phono preamp, giving users the option to connect to systems with or without a dedicated phono stage.
Performance Comparison
In terms of sound quality, both the Denon DP-400 and the Audio-Technica AT-LP5 deliver exceptional performance. The Denon DP-400 produces a neutral and balanced sound with excellent detail and clarity. The Audio-Technica AT-LP5 offers a warmer and more dynamic sound, with a slightly fuller bass response.
Price and Value
The Denon DP-400 and the Audio-Technica AT-LP5 are priced similarly, with the Denon DP-400 typically being slightly more expensive. Both turntables offer excellent value for money, providing high-fidelity audio reproduction at an affordable price point.
Summary: The Verdict
The Denon DP-400 and the Audio-Technica AT-LP5 are both outstanding turntables that offer exceptional sound quality and performance. The Denon DP-400 excels in terms of speed stability, build quality, and connectivity options. The Audio-Technica AT-LP5 offers a warmer sound profile, a lighter tonearm, and a switchable phono preamp. Ultimately, the best choice between these two turntables depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Which turntable has better build quality?
A: Both the Denon DP-400 and the Audio-Technica AT-LP5 are well-built, but the Denon DP-400 has a slightly more rigid and durable chassis.
Q: Which turntable has a better tonearm?
A: The Denon DP-400’s carbon fiber tonearm is generally considered to be superior to the Audio-Technica AT-LP5’s aluminum tonearm in terms of rigidity and resonance damping.
Q: Which turntable has more connectivity options?
A: The Denon DP-400 offers both RCA and optical digital outputs, while the Audio-Technica AT-LP5 only has RCA outputs.
Q: Which turntable is a better value for money?
A: Both turntables offer excellent value for money, but the Audio-Technica AT-LP5 is typically slightly more affordable.
Q: Which turntable is better for beginners?
A: Both the Denon DP-400 and the Audio-Technica AT-LP5 are suitable for beginners, but the Audio-Technica AT-LP5’s switchable phono preamp makes it easier to connect to a wider range of systems.