Denon DAP-5500 Hybrid Digital-Analog Preamplifier

Some might argue that Denon was at its peak in the 1980s.  It's hard to think of another "old school" audio brand that leaned into the digital foray more aggressively than Denon while maintaining their analog chops.  The DAP-5500 is the perfect example of the company's position at the leading-edge of the digital music market.  This preamp/controller is quite literally, a two-in-one.  

On the right side of the chassis is a complete analog preamp with two unbalanced line outs, one balanced, two tape loops, and both balanced and unbalanced pre-outs as well as a dedicated "DAC" output.  This allows the preamp to be used as a stand-alone DAC if the preamp functions are not needed.

On the digital side to the left, the unit features two coax inputs, a single optical TOSKLINK input, and a very unique digital "record loop" using a coax in/out for recording on digital tape, mini-Disc, or CDR.  Technically, the DAC utilizes four ganged Burr Brown PCM56KP 16-bit DACs with 4x oversampling to extract and translate those 0's and 1's into a crystal clear audio signal. 

This unit has been reviewed by our tech.  The volume knob has been cleaned, and all functions checked against spec.  It's a lovely original owner piece and sounds amazing.

Demos are available in Lawrence, MA.

$399 (plus applicable MA sales tax and/or shipping)