Denon DP 1700w (DP 1000 + DA 50)

The Denon DP-1700w is a superb vintage set, combining the DP-1700 wooden plinth, DP-1000 motor unit, and the DA-50 tonearm, forming a cohesive and elegant high-fidelity system.

The Denon DP-1000, released in Japan in 1974, during the “Golden Era” of Japanese high-end audio, is a high-quality direct-drive turntable aimed at the discerning entry-level audiophile market. It was built with Denon’s hallmark reliability and attention to detail, offering performance far above its class.

This model employs the same servo-controlled AC direct-drive motor system found in the revered DP-3000, Denon’s top-tier model at the time. This motor system is known for its exceptionally stable rotation, extremely low wow and flutter, and excellent pitch accuracy, all of which contribute to a clean and dynamic soundstage with a remarkably low noise floor.

The DP-1000 features high torque and quick start-up time, a hallmark of Denon’s direct-drive philosophy, making it not only a great performer in home audio setups but also popular in professional environments. The motor is housed within the elegant and heavy DP-1700 plinth, made from a solid wood composite designed to effectively suppress vibrations and resonances.

The tonearm on this unit, the Denon DA-50, is a high-precision arm offering smooth tracking, excellent cartridge compatibility, and solid performance across a wide range of music. It features precision bearings, adjustable anti-skate, and tracking force, making it suitable for both MM and MC cartridges.

Despite being less known in Western markets, Denon turntables have a cult following among audiophiles who appreciate Japanese engineering and sonic accuracy. Their build quality, motor design, and tonal balance are consistently praised.

Overall, this DP-1700w set is a perfect example of Denon’s dedication to engineering and design — visually stunning, mechanically sound, and musically outstanding. A real gem for those who appreciate the quiet excellence of vintage Japanese hi-fi.