The quality sound combined with ease of use makes the Denon DP300F a classic all-rounder.
Quality construction for the best sound
Using a 4mm thick fence, the Denon DP300F plinth offers stiffness and high density for lower levels of distortion. The aluminum plate also gives much better sound results than plastic. Finished in glossy black you see a cut above the most basic covers and is the ideal combination for others, full width, Hi-Fi separates.
What is Denon needle?
The stylus (needle) is the small, pointed tip that is attached to the end of a phono cartridge and comes into contact with the record groove. It is responsible for tracking the undulations of the record groove and converting them into an electrical signal.
Denon, as a company produces a wide range of stylus options for their cartridges. The type of needle you will need depends on the specific cartridge you are using. Many Denon cartridges use a replaceable needle, which allows you to replace the needle if it becomes worn or damaged, instead of having to replace the entire cartridge. Some of the Denon needle that is available in market are spherical needle, elliptical needle, microlinear needle, and so on. Each of the needle shape come with different compatibility, sound characteristics and price range.
To find out what needle is compatible with your Denon cartridge you should check the user manual or visit the Denon website. They should have information on which needle can be used with specific models of cartridges. In case of replacement, it is best to go for a needle from the same manufacturer, such as Denon to ensure compatibility and the best performance of the turntable.
Denon Turntable DP300F highlights
The Denon DP-300F is a fully automatic turntable, designed for both music enthusiasts and casual listeners. Some of the key highlights of this turntable include:
- Fully Automatic Operation: The turntable’s fully automatic operation makes it easy for anyone to play their records with just the touch of a button.
- High-quality components: The turntable features a die-cast aluminum platter and a stable, low-coloration tonearm for optimal audio playback.
- MM phono cartridge: The turntable includes a factory-installed, moving magnet phono cartridge, which allows for easy setup and high-quality sound.
- Adjustable Dynamic Balance tonearm: The tonearm is designed with an adjustable dynamic balance, which allows for accurate and stable tracking of the record.
- Easy Operation: The simple, intuitive design of the turntable makes it easy to operate, even for those with little experience with turntables.
- Connectivity: The turntable comes with an integrated Phono EQ amplifier, making it easy to connect to your existing audio system or powered speakers.
- Design: The sleek and elegant design of the turntable gives it a sophisticated look that complements any home audio setup.
- Speed Adjustment: The turntable allows to adjust the playing speed of the records 33 1/3, 45 and 78 RPM, making it compatible with most records available on the market.
High-performance tone-arm and cartridge
Compatible with a wide range of cartridges, the straight arm used by the DP300F offers superior tracking capability. A good quality Moving Magnet (MM) cartridge is included in the package to start with a minimum of confusion.
A phono cartridge is a device that is attached to the end of a tonearm on a turntable and converts the mechanical energy of a record groove into an electrical signal. The MM stands for Moving Magnet, which refers to the type of technology used in the cartridge to generate this electrical signal. In a moving magnet (MM) cartridge, a tiny magnet is attached to the end of a lightweight stylus (or needle) that is embedded in the cartridge. As the stylus traces the record groove, it moves the magnet in relation to a set of fixed coils, which generates an electrical current. The electrical current is then amplified by a phono preamp to produce the audio signal that is sent to your speakers or headphones.
MM cartridges are one of the most common types of cartridges used on turntables. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to find, and they typically have a wide frequency response and a low distortion, which makes them a good choice for most listening situations. Additionally, the output of moving magnet cartridge usually a bit higher and that makes it easy to connect it to an MM input of a stereo receiver or phono preamplifier.
Fully automatic for ease of use
Unlike more minimalist covers, the DP300F combines high sound quality with ease of use. Just select the size of the register and the tone arm starts in the right place. It also has self-return, so you don’t have to worry about damaging the pencil at the end of the record.
Connect Denon DP300F to any system with an AUX input
The integrated phono sound stage means that you don’t even need to use an amplifier or system with a dedicated rotary input – any system with an AUX input in will. Photo:Denon
Featuring a gloss-coated rigid die-cast aluminum construction, Denon DP300F turntable offers a sturdy foundation and minimal vibration compared to most counterparts in its price range, which typically utilize an MDF plinth. Denon’s choice of aluminum is aimed at reducing external noise and enhancing performance by minimizing vibrations. The heavier base contributes to a noise-free, detailed, and richer sound.
The newly designed straight-arm tonearm comes with a removable headshell, facilitating a straightforward cartridge replacement process. It accommodates standard mount replacements weighing between five and ten grams. Setting up the counter-weight balance for the arm is crucial, though it can be a somewhat tricky operation. The arm is equipped with adjustable tracking force and anti-skate controls for fine-tuning.
An Equalizer switch provides connections to both line-level inputs and phono, serving as a preamp. This feature allows the turntable to be used with a receiver lacking a built-in preamp. However, it’s important to note that this preamp doesn’t enable the connection of the turntable to a computer for digitizing vinyl records.
PROS:
- Easy setup, ideal for beginners.
- Fully automated playback.
- Appealing retro styling.
- Quality built-in phono preamp.
- Upgrade-friendly.
CONS:
- The included cartridge may not deliver the best sound quality; an upgrade is recommended for significant improvement.
- Lack of USB recording functionality.
Denon DP300F turntable specs:
Auto tonearm lift at end | Yes |
Speed: 33-1/3 & 45 RPM | Yes / Yes |
Wow & flutter | 0.10% (WRMS) |
USB Direct Recording | No |
Phono EQ built in (switchable) | Yes |
Stylus (MM / MC) | Yes / No |
Stylus version | CN-6518 |
Universal Headshell | No |
Dust Cover | Yes |
Available colors: Premium Silver / Black | Yes / Yes |
Maximum Dimensions Antenna: Horizontal: (W x D x H) in Inches Antenna: Vertical: (W x D x H) in Inches W/O Antenna: (W x D x H) in Inches |
17.1 x 4.7 x 13.8 |
Weight in LBS | 12 lbs |
Carton Maximum Dimensions (W x D x H) in Inches | 19.5 x 17.9 x 7.68 |
Carton Weight (inc. product) in LBS | 15 lbs |