Denon DCD-900NE CD Player with USB, Black

The Denon DCD-900NE is a CD player with Advanced AL32 Processing Plus and a USB input that combines the classic silver disc with a healthy dose of hi-res flexibility.

It's the entry point into the NE series and is aimed at anyone who wants a solid, good-sounding CD player without moving straight up to the next price segment. Compact in its housing, but by no means modest in sound – Denon has carried over a lot from the larger series here without letting the price grow along with it.

Why the DCD-900NE?

Because it shows that an entry-level CD player doesn't have to sound like a compromise. The ES9018K2M converter from ESS – usually found in higher price classes – works together with AL32 Processing Plus, which mathematically fills in missing samples instead of roughly interpolating them.

The front USB input additionally turns it into a compact file player: FLAC, WAV, AIFF, ALAC and DSD up to 5.6 MHz run straight from a USB stick, with no computer or network needed. A clever addition for anyone who wants to bring their digital archive into play alongside their CDs.

What you hear

115 dB signal-to-noise ratio and 110 dB dynamic range at 24-bit PCM are figures you rarely find in this price class. In practice, that means neutral, clear playback with noticeable spaciousness, instead of the somewhat flat presentation many entry-level devices show.

And here too: streaming is an option, not a requirement. The DCD-900NE thrives just as well on your own CD collection or a USB stick with your digital archive – with no ongoing subscription costs.

Who is the DCD-900NE for? (and who isn't it for)

For anyone looking for their first "proper" CD player or wanting to replace an older entry-level device – and who'd also like to plug in a USB stick with FLAC files now and then. An honest starting point into the NE series.

Straight talk: the DCD-900NE doesn't play SACDs – for that you need the DCD-1700NE or DCD-3000NE. And anyone with high-end ambitions will eventually hit limits with the transport and power supply; then it's worth reaching for its bigger sibling.

Our verdict

The DCD-900NE is proof that "entry-level" doesn't mean "compromise" at Denon. Anyone who claims a CD player under 500 francs can't sound like a reference simply hasn't heard this one yet. Feel free to change your mind.

What the trade press says: "The CD player impressed with neutrality, clarity and a very three-dimensional presentation." – stereoplay, issue 9/2022, 80 out of 100 points.

Technical data

• Type: CD player with Advanced AL32 Processing Plus and USB
• D/A converter: ES9018K2M
• Supported formats: CD, CD-R/RW, MP3, WMA; via USB additionally FLAC, WAV, AIFF, ALAC, DSD up to 5.6 MHz, up to 24-bit/192 kHz
• Frequency response: 2 Hz–96 kHz (at 192 kHz sampling rate)
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 115 dB (PCM)
• Dynamic range: 110 dB (24-bit PCM)
• Digital outputs: 1× optical, 1× coaxial
• USB input: 1× Type A (front)
• Output level: 2-channel RCA, fixed, 2.2 Vrms
• Headphone output: not present
• Remote control: RC-1246
• Power consumption: 24 W (standby 0.3 W)
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 434 × 107 × 328 mm
• Weight: 4.7 kg
• Colors: Premium Silver, Black

Frequently asked questions

Does the DCD-900NE have a headphone output?
No. The DCD-900NE has no headphone output and is designed as a source for a preamp or integrated amplifier. For headphones you'll need a separate headphone amplifier or an integrated amplifier with its own headphone output.

Is the output level adjustable?
No, the RCA output delivers a fixed level of 2.2 Vrms. So you always need a downstream amplifier with its own volume control – the DCD-900NE doesn't replace a preamp.

Can I play music from a USB stick?
Yes, the front USB input reads FLAC, WAV, AIFF, ALAC and DSD files up to 5.6 MHz as well as MP3 and WMA directly from the stick, with no computer or network needed. Handy for your digital archive alongside your CD collection.

Does the DCD-900NE also play SACDs?
No, the DCD-900NE reads only CD and CD-R/RW. For SACD playback you need the DCD-1700NE or the flagship DCD-3000NE.

Why buy the Denon DCD-900NE from HD Zürisee?
Because even an entry-level device has to fit the rest of the system – amplifier, cables, speakers. We advise you personally on this in Wädenswil and together find the combination that fits your budget and your room.

Goes well with

The DCD-900NE appreciates a matching integrated amplifier and a clean RCA cable for the connection. For a tidy appearance on the shelf, it's also worth taking a look at our HiFi racks.