What To Know
- The DP-62L, on the other hand, showcases a more traditional turntable form with a wooden plinth and a cast-aluminum platter.
- The DP-62L is a semi-automatic turntable, requiring manual start and stop but offering auto-return at the end of the record.
- The DP-62L, with its belt-drive system, offers a slightly warmer and more organic sound, with a lush and enveloping midrange.
In the realm of audiophile turntables, the Denon DP-57L and DP-62L stand as two colossal figures, each embodying exceptional engineering and sonic prowess. This detailed comparison aims to shed light on their key differences, similarities, and which one might be the ideal choice for your listening pleasure.
Design and Build Quality
Both the DP-57L and DP-62L boast robust and elegant designs. The DP-57L features a sleek, minimalist aesthetic with a black or silver finish. Its solid aluminum platter and heavy-duty tonearm exude a sense of precision and durability. The DP-62L, on the other hand, showcases a more traditional turntable form with a wooden plinth and a cast-aluminum platter. It also incorporates a sophisticated anti-vibration system to minimize external interference.
Motor and Drive System
The DP-57L employs a direct drive motor with a servo-controlled quartz lock system, ensuring precise and stable platter rotation. This motor is renowned for its low noise and exceptional speed accuracy. The DP-62L, in contrast, utilizes a belt-drive system with a DC motor. Belt-drive systems offer a degree of isolation between the motor and the platter, potentially reducing noise and vibrations.
Tonearm and Cartridge
The DP-57L is equipped with a straight, carbon fiber tonearm with an adjustable counterweight and anti-skating mechanism. It comes pre-mounted with a Denon DL-110 cartridge, known for its neutral and detailed sound. The DP-62L features a curved, S-shaped tonearm with a statically balanced design. It can accommodate a wide range of cartridges, allowing for customization and experimentation.
Speed Control and Convenience
Both turntables offer 33 1/3 and 45 RPM speed settings, with the DP-62L additionally supporting 78 RPM. The DP-57L boasts a fully automatic operation, including auto-start, auto-stop, and auto-return. The DP-62L is a semi-automatic turntable, requiring manual start and stop but offering auto-return at the end of the record.
Sound Quality
The DP-57L is known for its exceptionally clean and transparent sound, with a wide soundstage and precise imaging. Its direct drive system ensures a solid and rhythmic bass response. The DP-62L, with its belt-drive system, offers a slightly warmer and more organic sound, with a lush and enveloping midrange. Both turntables exhibit excellent dynamics and detail retrieval.
Price and Availability
The Denon DP-57L is typically priced around $1,000, while the DP-62L can be found for approximately $1,200. Both turntables are widely available from authorized retailers and online marketplaces.
Takeaways: The Perfect Turntable for Your Needs
Choosing between the Denon DP-57L and DP-62L ultimately depends on your individual preferences and listening habits. If you prioritize precision, stability, and automatic operation, the DP-57L is an excellent choice. If you prefer a warmer sound, customization options, and a more traditional design, the DP-62L might be the better fit. Regardless of your decision, both turntables offer exceptional performance and will undoubtedly elevate your listening experience.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q1. Which turntable has a better motor?
The DP-57L’s direct drive motor offers superior speed accuracy and low noise, while the DP-62L’s belt-drive system provides isolation and a warmer sound.
Q2. Which turntable is easier to use?
The DP-57L is fully automatic, making it convenient and user-friendly. The DP-62L is semi-automatic, requiring manual start and stop but offering auto-return.
Q3. Which turntable is better for customization?
The DP-62L features a curved tonearm that accommodates a wide range of cartridges, allowing for customization and experimentation. The DP-57L’s straight tonearm and pre-mounted cartridge offer a more straightforward setup experience.