Denon turntables that end with ‘l’ are part of their semi-automatic consumer line. Whilst not the most upper end Denon turntables, they are nonetheless vary nice machines that are worthy of consideration if found for a decent price. The model numbers include the Denon DP-59l, Denon DP-60l, Denon DP-62l and and DP-72l, with higher numbers equalling better turntables. The higher the number, the rarer the table as well, since fewer were produced for the more discerning market.
Build Quality
All of these turntables are direct drive, and come with beautiful rosewood bases that make them attractive and rather unique looking. Depending on the model, the top plate can often look ultra modern which can lead to a dichotomous look. This may appeal to some and turn others off – the Denon DP-62l and DP-72l are examples of this look.
These turntables frequently came with detachable arms – i.e. an S-shaped tonearm can be swapped in for a straight one if desired. Straight tonearms bought individually off eBay often fetch a little more. The S-shaped tonearms will accept much heavier cartridges, so beware when matching cartridge to tonearm.
The Denon DP-72l is capable of fetching between $500 and $1000 when bought second hand, the Denon DP-62l around $500, and the others a little less. Their sturdy look will often make people realise their value, and they can be difficult to find cheaply.
The downsides to these Denon turntables is their relative unpopularity and complex design. The more parts there are in a turntable, the more parts there are that could break, and there are few replacement parts.
Denon DP-72l Specifications
- Wow/Flutter: <0.008% WRMS
- Signal to noise ratio: > 82 dB
- Cartridge acceptance: 4 to 15g with the straight arm, 11 to 20g with the s-shaped arm
- Weight: 15kg
Denon DP-62l Specifications
- Wow/Flutter: 0.008% WRMS
- Rumble: 82 dB
- Weight: 11.5 kg
Denon DP-60l Specifications
- Wow/Flutter: less than 0.015% WRMS
- Rumble: < -78dB
- Weight: 13kg
- Cartridge acceptance: 4-10g with straight arm, 12-18g with s-shaped arm
Denon DP-59l Specifications
- Wow/Flutter: 0.006% WRMS
- Signal to noise ratio: > than 82dB
- Weight: 15kg
Denon DP-57l Specifications
- Wow/Flutter: 0.008% WRMS
- Signal to noise ratio: 82dB
- Weight: 11.5kg
If you manage to find one of these Denon turntables second hand and in good condition, congratulations, you’ve found a sturdy gem of a turntable. I consider Denons to be overall better than Duals, but not as good as Thorens, to give some idea of their quality. They are getting on a bit in age now, and parts can be hard to find or expensive, so be sure you are willing to manage a labour of love before investing.
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