Denon DP-29F Turntable, Entry-Level Model

The Denon DP-29F is a fully automatic entry-level turntable with belt drive, a straight tonearm, a factory pre-mounted MM cartridge, and a built-in, switchable phono preamp.

It's Denon's smallest and lightest deck in the lineup – compact, with fixed tracking force and one-button operation that really only needs one button. If you're looking for your first turntable, or want to add something analog to a student room, this is the most uncomplicated entry point in the Denon range.

Why the DP-29F?

Because it delivers on the entry-level promise consistently: cartridge pre-mounted, tracking force fixed at the factory, phono preamp built in. You don't need tools, a tracking force gauge, or prior knowledge – put the record on, press the button, done. If you've already given up on other entry-level decks because of all the fiddly parts, you'll appreciate this one, and if you've never owned a turntable before, you can hardly go wrong with the DP-29F.

What you hear

Surprisingly composed for its class: steady speed stability, an unobtrusive MM cartridge that separates voices and instruments cleanly without being annoying. It's no substitute for a high-end deck, but it's an honest performance that's more fun than its size and price would suggest. For your first own record collection in a student room, or as a relaxed second turntable, this is exactly the right amount of sound.

Who is the DP-29F suited for? (and who isn't it for)

Bottom line: The DP-29F is deliberately reduced – fixed rather than adjustable tracking force, no switching to 78 rpm, a simple tonearm without fine adjustment. It's exactly right for your first own turntable, a second unit in the study, or anyone on a tight budget. If you plan to later tinker with the system, fine-tune tracking force, or switch to a higher-quality MM/MC cartridge, the DP-300F or DP-400 is the better fit – they allow that, the DP-29F doesn't.

Our verdict

The DP-29F is Denon's most honest entry into the brand: no frills, but a deck that works without detours. For your first own turntable, a very likeable choice – and for later, you'll know where to find an upgrade.

Technical data

• Drive: belt drive, DC servo motor
• Speeds: 33 1/3, 45 rpm
• Wow and flutter: below 0.15% (WRMS)
• Operating mode: fully automatic, one-button operation with automatic return
• Tonearm: dynamically balanced, straight, effective length 195 mm
• Tracking force: fixed, approx. 3.5 g (not adjustable)
• Cartridge: MM system, factory pre-mounted (replacement stylus type DSN-82)
• Phono preamp: built in, switchable (rated output: 2.5 mV/1 kHz equalizer off, 150 mV/1 kHz equalizer on)
• Output level: switchable – phono level (equalizer off) or line level via the internal phono preamp (equalizer on)
• Headphone output: not available
• USB output: not available
• Power consumption: 2 W
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 360 × 97 × 357 mm
• Weight: 2.7 kg
• Included: DP-29F deck, pre-mounted MM cartridge, dust cover, RCA cable, power cable

Frequently asked questions

Can I adjust the tracking force on the DP-29F myself?
No, it's fixed at the factory to about 3.5 g and can't be adjusted. That's intentional: the DP-29F is aimed at anyone who just wants to get started without dealing with tonearm geometry.

Does the DP-29F need an external phono preamp?
No, a switchable phono preamp is built in. With an amplifier that has its own phono input, you switch it off; with an amplifier that only has line/AUX inputs, you leave it switched on.

Is a cartridge already mounted on the DP-29F?
Yes, an MM cartridge is pre-mounted at the factory. You unpack it, connect it, and play records without having to adjust anything yourself.

Can I later swap the cartridge for a better system?
The manufacturer didn't design the DP-29F for easy cartridge swaps – the tracking force can't be adjusted, which limits using a different cartridge. If you're planning a swap from the start, the DP-300F or DP-400 is the better fit.

Why buy the Denon DP-29F at HD Zürisee?
Because we tell you honestly whether the DP-29F is enough for your start or whether it's worth going one class higher – and because we've known for years which entry-level devices really deliver on their promise in everyday use. Call us (044 680 22 00) or write via WhatsApp (076 534 22 00, text only, no calls).

Goes well with

Without a phono input on the amplifier, a phono preamp is worthwhile; care accessories like record brushes can be found under turntable accessories. More turntables under turntables, the full Denon range at Denon.