Featured item
Denon DP-400
Fascination with LP playback does not seem to be waning whatsoever, and manufacturers are responding with new turntable models to feed the masses.
New at harmony, the Denon DP-400 is a belt-drive turntable and an upgraded version of the bestselling Denon DP-300F.
There are several changes in design, such as an S-shaped tonearm with a removable headshell. It includes a moving magnet cartridge that is pre-mounted, but the origin isn’t known. That said, you can always upgrade it with offerings from Sumiko or Grado.
The DP-400 includes a built-in phono preamp, which Denon refers to as an ‘equalizer’. A switch in the back sets its mode.
The turntable is a semi-automatic, meaning that you need to lower the tonearm to the record’s surface, but at the end, the DP-400 will lift it up, return it, and shut off the motor. This is also selectable from the back panel.
Unusual for a modern turntable, the DP-400 offers three speeds for playback: 33, 45 & 78 rpm, controlled by a knob on the top plinth.
The body of the turntable is metal-weighted, with a plastic covering (available in black or white). The platter is cast from aluminum and is covered by a thick rubber mat.
Another nice feature is a pair of female RCA output jacks - which means you can upgrade your cables from the generic ones that come with the turntable. A nice touch!
Probably the most eye-catching aspect of this new turntable is the dust cover - something that must be seen to be appreciated!
Currently in stock in the white finish, Harmony is selling the Denon DP-400 for just $499. Stop by and check it out!
Tips & techniques
LP Maintenance
If you’re just getting into LP playback, or come from a digital background, you may not know the biggest rule in turntables - keep it clean!
If you want the most out of your turntable and LP collection, it is imperative that you maintain cleanliness. Think of it like brushing your teeth - if you want to keep them, brush and floss every day.
So what do we recommend?
For starters, clean your LPs with LAST All-purpose cleaner when you first get them home (new or used). For extra dirty LPs, try the LAST heavy duty cleaner for the first wash.
Next, be sure to dust off the record before each play with an Audioquest anti-static record brush (only $20!). This removes dust from the surface, and gets rid off static, which can cause ticks and pops - especially when the weather is dry.
Finally, be sure to be kind to your stylus! Use LAST stylus cleaner before you play a record to remove any accumulated gunk that it may have encountered on the last spin.
Make these a part of your everyday listening experience and your collection and turntable will reward you with years of great sound! |
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