Denon PMA-1700NE Stereo Integrated Amplifier with DAC

The Denon PMA-1700NE is a stereo integrated amplifier with a built-in USB-DAC that combines high-end ambitions with everyday practicality under one roof.

It sits right where most music lovers end up landing: enough power and resolution for serious listening, without needing a second rack for it. Whether turntable, CD player or laptop via USB – the PMA-1700NE takes it all in and turns it into a coherent whole.

Why the PMA-1700NE?

Because it combines the classic Denon virtue – rich, controlled sound with plenty of power reserve – with a high-quality digital heart. The PCM1795 converter together with a fully isolated USB-B input processes PCM up to 384 kHz/32-bit and DSD up to 11.2 MHz in asynchronous mode – turning your computer into a serious source, not just a stopgap.

What you hear

A rich midrange, a tight, well-defined bass and enough power to confidently drive even more demanding floorstanding speakers. 70 watts at 8 Ω sounds modest, but doubles to 140 watts at 4 Ω – proof of a power supply that doesn't give up once things get uncomfortable.

Who is the PMA-1700NE for? (and who isn't it for)

For anyone who wants to combine turntable, digital sources and computer audio in one device without compromising on sound. Straight talk: if you want to listen wirelessly, you'll need to add that yourself – Bluetooth is deliberately not on board with the PMA-1700NE, nor are Wi-Fi or HEOS. If you want streaming built directly into the amplifier, take a look at the PMA-900HNE instead.

Our verdict

The PMA-1700NE is the amplifier for anyone who's serious about it but isn't ready to invest in the absolute top league yet. The trade press sees it the same way: "AV specialist Denon has really pulled off a genuinely good 2-channel integrated amplifier here." – LowBeats, July 19, 2022, overall rating 4.5 out of 5, rated "outstanding." At HD Zürisee in Wädenswil, we're happy to listen together with you to see if it suits your speakers.

Technical data

• Type: Stereo integrated amplifier with USB-DAC (2 channels)
• Output power: 70 W + 70 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz–20 kHz, 0.07% THD)
• Output power (4 Ω): 140 W + 140 W
• D/A converter: PCM1795, USB-B input, fully isolated, asynchronous mode
• Supported formats: PCM up to 384 kHz/32-bit, DSD up to 11.2 MHz
• Phono input: MM/MC, switchable
• Analog inputs: 4 (Phono/CD/Network/AUX) plus recorder output
• Digital inputs: 2× optical, 1× coaxial (each up to 192 kHz), 1× USB-B
• Headphone output: present, automatically mutes speakers
• Bluetooth/Wi-Fi: not present
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 434 × 135 × 374 mm
• Weight: 17.6 kg
• Included: integrated amplifier, remote control with AAA batteries, power cable

Frequently asked questions

Can I connect my computer directly to the PMA-1700NE?
Yes, via the isolated USB-B input – it processes PCM up to 384 kHz/32-bit and DSD up to 11.2 MHz in asynchronous mode. That turns your computer into a fully-fledged hi-res source, with no separate DAC needed.

Does the PMA-1700NE have Bluetooth or Wi-Fi?
No, deliberately not. The PMA-1700NE is designed as a pure amplifier with digital and phono inputs. If you want wireless streaming built directly into the device, the PMA-900HNE with built-in HEOS is the better fit.

Can I connect a turntable with an MC cartridge directly?
Yes, the built-in phono preamp is switchable between MM and MC. That means you don't need an external phono preamp.

Is the power enough for larger floorstanding speakers?
For most mid-range floorstanding speakers, yes – 70 watts at 8 Ω with headroom up to 140 watts at 4 Ω is a solid foundation. For very large or inefficient speakers, we're happy to talk through your specific combination.

Why buy the Denon PMA-1700NE from HD Zürisee?
Because a good amplifier only really shines with the right speakers. We advise you personally on your room situation and take care of delivery and connection by our technician Mauri on request.

Goes well with

Combine the PMA-1700NE with solid floorstanding speakers or bookshelf speakers, plus a clean speaker cable. More options in the integrated amplifiers category.