Audio T Verdict
The Denon PMA-600NE is an excellent introduction to proper separates Hi-Fi, combining a capable stereo amplifier with Bluetooth, digital inputs and a moving-magnet phono stage at an accessible price.
Its Advanced High Current amplifier delivers 45W per channel into 8 ohms across the full audible frequency range, rising to a published 70W per channel into 4 ohms under Denon's specified test conditions.
Two optical inputs, one coaxial input and a built-in 24-bit/192kHz DAC make it easy to accommodate a television, CD transport or another digital source, while five analogue inputs provide plenty of room for traditional Hi-Fi equipment.
It does not offer network streaming, HDMI or USB playback, but that relative simplicity will appeal to listeners who want an affordable amplifier focused on physical sources, television sound and occasional Bluetooth listening.
Denon PMA-600NE Integrated Amplifier with Bluetooth
The Denon PMA-600NE is a conventional two-channel integrated amplifier designed to form the heart of an affordable separates Hi-Fi system.
It can accommodate:
- A pair of passive stereo loudspeakers
- A turntable with a moving-magnet cartridge
- A CD player or CD transport
- A television with an optical or coaxial output
- A network music streamer
- A Bluetooth phone, tablet or computer
- A cassette deck or other recording device
- An active subwoofer
- Wired headphones
Its principal features include:
- 45W per channel into 8 ohms
- 70W per channel into 4 ohms
- Advanced High Current single push-pull amplifier circuit
- Bluetooth 5.1 music reception
- PCM5141 digital-to-analogue converter
- Two optical digital inputs
- One coaxial digital input
- Two-channel PCM support up to 24-bit/192kHz
- Moving-magnet phono stage
- Four conventional analogue line inputs
- Analogue recording output
- Active-subwoofer output
- Front wired-headphone connection
- Analogue Mode
- Source Direct playback
45W Per Channel Stereo Amplifier
Denon rates the PMA-600NE at 45W per channel into 8 ohms from 20Hz to 20kHz, with both channels driven and total harmonic distortion of 0.07%.
It also delivers a published 70W per channel into 4 ohms at 1kHz with both channels driven and total harmonic distortion of 0.7%.
The 45W figure is the most representative indication of normal full-range stereo performance. The 70W figure demonstrates the amplifier's increased output into a lower-impedance load under Denon's separate test conditions.
The actual volume and performance available in a room will also depend on:
- Speaker sensitivity
- Speaker impedance
- The speaker's electrical phase characteristics
- Room size
- Listening distance
- Required playback level
- Speaker positioning
- The dynamic range of the music
What Does the 70W Figure Mean?
The frequently quoted 70W figure is measured under different conditions from the amplifier's 45W rating.
It is measured with:
- A 4-ohm speaker load
- A single 1kHz test frequency
- Both channels operating
- Total harmonic distortion of 0.7%
It is a valid indication of the amplifier's output into 4 ohms, but it should not be directly compared with full-range ratings measured from 20Hz to 20kHz into 8 ohms.
Advanced High Current Amplifier Design
The PMA-600NE uses Denon's Advanced High Current single push-pull power-amplifier circuit.
Denon specifies output transistors capable of supplying approximately two to three times the peak current of a conventional audio power transistor.
The amplifier combines this with:
- Discrete power-amplifier construction
- A wide-range amplifier circuit
- A high-current dynamic power supply
- Schottky barrier diodes
- Solid internal heat sinks
- Carefully selected audio components
The aim is to provide stable control, sufficient current for musical peaks and clear reproduction from quiet details through to higher listening levels.
Main Transformer with Separate Windings
The main power transformer uses separate windings for the audio and control circuits.
Separating these power supplies helps reduce electrical interaction between the sensitive audio path and the control electronics.
The amplifier also uses Denon's Signal Level Divided Construction to organise circuits according to their signal level and function.
This physical separation is designed to help prevent high-level power and control signals from interfering with lower-level audio signals.
Microprocessor Stop Mode
The PMA-600NE uses a microprocessor for control functions, but this circuitry is not required continuously during music playback.
Microprocessor Stop Mode halts unnecessary processor activity when it is not needed, reducing high-frequency clock activity around the audio circuitry.
This happens automatically and does not require the listener to navigate a menu or change a setting.
Speaker Compatibility
Denon specifies compatibility with passive loudspeakers presenting an impedance between 4 and 16 ohms.
The PMA-600NE can be considered for:
- Compact standmount speakers
- Larger standmount speakers
- Efficient floorstanding speakers
- Wall-mounted passive speakers
A suitable loudspeaker should provide:
- An impedance the amplifier can drive safely
- Enough sensitivity for the room and listening distance
- Cabinet dimensions suitable for the available space
- Bass output appropriate for the room
- A tonal balance that complements the listener's preferences
Browse stereo speakers at Audio T or contact your local store to arrange a demonstration with suitable alternatives.
One Pair of Speaker Outputs
The PMA-600NE provides one stereo pair of speaker terminals.
It does not include Speaker A and B switching, independent room outputs or passive bi-wiring connections from separate amplifier terminals.
Customers requiring two switchable pairs of loudspeakers should consider an alternative amplifier with dedicated Speaker A and B outputs.
Speaker Cable and Termination
The rear binding posts accept correctly prepared speaker cable and suitable terminations.
When making the connection:
- Switch the amplifier off and disconnect it from the mains
- Confirm the left and right channels
- Maintain the correct positive and negative polarity
- Prevent exposed conductors from touching each other
- Prevent loose strands from touching the rear panel
- Tighten each terminal securely without excessive force
A short circuit between the speaker terminals can activate the amplifier's protection circuit and may cause damage.
Browse speaker cables at Audio T or ask your local store about suitable lengths and professional termination.
Bluetooth Music Playback
Bluetooth allows music to be received wirelessly from a compatible phone, tablet, portable player or computer.
It is useful for:
- Quick everyday listening
- Guests connecting their own devices
- Applications without a dedicated Hi-Fi connection
- Music, podcasts and internet radio from a mobile device
The PMA-600NE uses Bluetooth 5.1 and supports SBC and AAC audio codecs.
Denon publishes a maximum line-of-sight range of approximately 30 metres, although walls, furniture, interference and the connected device can reduce the practical range significantly.
Bluetooth is convenient, but a wired digital source or dedicated network streamer may provide greater stability and potential sound quality.
Bluetooth Reception Only
The PMA-600NE can receive Bluetooth music from a source device.
It cannot transmit its sound to Bluetooth headphones, wireless speakers or another Bluetooth receiver.
Use the front wired-headphone socket or add a suitable external Bluetooth transmitter if wireless headphone listening is required.
Bluetooth Standby
When Analogue Mode is switched off, the Bluetooth module can remain available while the amplifier is in standby.
A previously paired Bluetooth device can then wake the amplifier when it reconnects and begins playback.
Customers who do not require Bluetooth wake-up can switch on Analogue Mode before entering standby, reducing standby consumption and disabling the Bluetooth circuit.
No Built-In Network Streaming
The PMA-600NE does not contain HEOS, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect or internet radio.
Music streaming is available through Bluetooth, but customers wanting full network playback can add a separate streamer using:
- An analogue RCA input
- An optical digital input
- The coaxial digital input
The step-up Denon PMA-900HNE Network Amplifier includes HEOS, AirPlay 2, high-resolution network playback and USB storage playback within the amplifier itself.
Built-In 24-Bit/192kHz DAC
The PMA-600NE contains a PCM5141 digital-to-analogue converter.
This allows compatible digital sources to connect directly without requiring a separate DAC.
The digital inputs accept two-channel linear PCM at:
- 32kHz
- 44.1kHz
- 48kHz
- 88.2kHz
- 96kHz
- 176.4kHz
- 192kHz
Both 16-bit and 24-bit PCM signals are supported.
The maximum 24-bit/192kHz capability refers to compatible incoming digital signals. It does not mean that Bluetooth audio is transmitted at that resolution.
Two Optical Digital Inputs
Two optical digital inputs provide a straightforward connection for suitable equipment including:
- Televisions
- CD players and transports
- Network streamers
- Digital radio tuners
- Games consoles
- Satellite and cable receivers
- Media players
Having two optical inputs allows a television and another digital source to remain connected at the same time.
Coaxial Digital Input
One coaxial digital input is provided for a compatible source with an RCA-style digital output.
Suitable equipment may include:
- CD transports
- Network transports
- Digital radio tuners
- Media players
- Compatible television equipment
Optical and coaxial connections both use the amplifier's internal DAC. The better choice will depend on the available outputs, cable run and source equipment.
Set Televisions and Digital Sources to Stereo PCM
The PMA-600NE accepts two-channel linear PCM through its optical and coaxial inputs.
Do not send Dolby Digital, DTS, AAC or another compressed multichannel bitstream. Denon warns that an unsupported signal may produce noise and could damage the loudspeakers.
Select PCM, linear PCM or stereo PCM within the television, games console, disc player or streaming device's digital-audio settings.
No HDMI ARC Connection
The PMA-600NE does not contain HDMI ARC or eARC.
A television must be connected through one of the two optical inputs or the coaxial input where the television provides a compatible connection.
Volume is controlled using the Denon remote rather than through HDMI control.
Customers wanting HDMI ARC, HDMI switching and integrated television control should consider the Denon DRA-900H Network Stereo Receiver.
Analogue Mode
Analogue Mode, labelled ANALOG MODE on the front panel, switches off power to the digital-input circuit and Bluetooth module.
It can be used when listening through:
- The phono input
- The CD analogue input
- The Network analogue input
- The Auxiliary analogue input
- The Recorder analogue input
By disabling unused digital circuitry, Analogue Mode reduces high-frequency activity around the amplifier's analogue audio section.
When Analogue Mode is active:
- Coaxial cannot be selected
- Optical 1 cannot be selected
- Optical 2 cannot be selected
- Bluetooth cannot be selected
- Bluetooth standby is disabled
If Analogue Mode is switched on while a digital or Bluetooth source is selected, the input automatically changes to CD. Audio is muted for approximately five seconds while the circuitry changes state.
Source Direct Playback
Source Direct bypasses the bass, treble and balance control circuitry.
This provides a shorter signal path for listeners who prefer reproduction without tone adjustment.
When Source Direct is active:
- The bass control is bypassed
- The treble control is bypassed
- The balance control is bypassed
- The Source Direct indicator illuminates
Source Direct and Analogue Mode perform different functions and can be used together when listening to an analogue source.
Source Direct
- Bypasses bass adjustment
- Bypasses treble adjustment
- Bypasses balance adjustment
- Can be used with analogue or digital inputs
- Does not switch off Bluetooth or the DAC
Analogue Mode
- Switches off the digital-input circuitry
- Switches off the Bluetooth module
- Can only be used with analogue inputs
- Disables Bluetooth standby
- Does not automatically bypass the tone controls
Moving-Magnet Phono Stage
A dedicated moving-magnet phono input allows a compatible turntable to connect directly without an external phono stage.
The input is designed for:
- Moving-magnet cartridges
- Compatible moving-iron cartridges
- Suitable high-output cartridge designs
Denon specifies an input sensitivity of 2.5mV and input impedance of 47 kohms.
A signal-ground terminal is provided for a turntable earth wire. This can reduce hum in many systems, although some turntables may produce less noise when the ground wire is left disconnected.
The ground terminal is for reducing signal noise and is not an electrical safety earth.
Explore the Denon DP-450USB Turntable for a matching belt-drive vinyl source.
Moving-Coil Cartridges Need an External Phono Stage
The PMA-600NE's built-in phono stage does not support conventional low-output moving-coil cartridges.
Use a compatible external moving-coil phono stage or step-up device and connect its line-level output to the CD, Network, Auxiliary or Recorder input.
External Phono-Stage Upgrade
The built-in phono stage provides a convenient starting point, but a suitable external phono stage can be added later.
An external stage may provide:
- Lower background noise
- Greater cartridge compatibility
- Improved dynamic range
- Better bass definition
- Greater clarity and separation
- Support for moving-coil cartridges
- Adjustable gain or loading on selected models
Connect the external phono stage to a normal line input rather than the PMA-600NE's phono input.
Four Analogue Line Inputs
Four stereo RCA line inputs are provided for conventional analogue sources.
The labelled inputs are:
- CD
- Network
- Auxiliary
- Recorder
Suitable equipment may include:
- CD and SACD players
- Network music streamers
- Cassette decks
- External digital-to-analogue converters
- External phono stages
- Radio tuners
- Portable music players
The input labels are provided for convenience. Any suitable line-level source can be connected to CD, Network, Auxiliary or Recorder.
Analogue Recording Output
A stereo RCA recording output allows the selected source to be sent to a compatible recording device.
Suitable equipment may include:
- Cassette decks
- Open-reel recorders
- Standalone digital recorders
- Compatible analogue-to-digital converters
The recording output is intended for recording rather than driving an external power amplifier.
No Full-Range Stereo Pre-Amplifier Output
The PMA-600NE does not provide a variable full-range stereo pre-amplifier output for an external power amplifier or active speakers.
The rear connection labelled PRE OUT is specifically intended for a compatible active subwoofer.
Active-Subwoofer Output
A dedicated mono RCA output allows a compatible active subwoofer to be connected.
A carefully adjusted subwoofer can provide:
- Deeper bass extension
- Greater scale
- More weight from drums and bass instruments
- Improved low-volume listening
- Greater flexibility with compact speakers
The subwoofer must contain its own amplifier. The PMA-600NE cannot directly power a passive subwoofer.
The amplifier does not provide user-adjustable crossover or subwoofer-level controls. Level, crossover frequency and phase are normally adjusted using the controls on the connected subwoofer.
When wired headphones are inserted, the speaker and subwoofer outputs are muted.
Browse active subwoofers at Audio T or ask your local store for advice on positioning, level, crossover and phase.
Front Wired-Headphone Output
A front-panel headphone socket provides private wired listening.
Connecting headphones automatically mutes:
- The loudspeaker output
- The active-subwoofer output
Begin with the volume at a low setting and increase it gradually to protect hearing and avoid damaging sensitive headphones.
The amplifier does not provide adjustable headphone-amplifier gain.
Matching Denon DCD-600NE CD Player
The PMA-600NE was designed as a natural partner for the Denon DCD-600NE CD Player.
The two products share the same width, finish options and general styling.
They can be connected through:
- Stereo RCA cable, using the DCD-600NE's internal DAC and analogue output stage
- Optical digital cable, using the PMA-600NE's internal PCM5141 DAC
The analogue connection is a sensible starting point because it uses the CD player's dedicated AL32 Processing and conversion stage. However, Audio T can demonstrate both connections so customers can decide which presentation they prefer.
The PMA-600NE's supplied RC-1234 remote also includes controls for compatible Denon CD players.
PMA-600NE or PMA-900HNE?
Choose the PMA-600NE When
- A straightforward and affordable amplifier is preferred
- Bluetooth provides enough wireless playback
- Network streaming will be added separately
- A moving-magnet cartridge will be used
- One pair of loudspeakers is sufficient
- The matching DCD-600NE CD player will be used
Choose the PMA-900HNE When
- HEOS network streaming is required
- AirPlay 2 is important
- High-resolution USB playback is wanted
- A moving-coil cartridge will be used
- Speaker A and B connections are useful
- Bluetooth headphone transmission is required
Explore the Denon PMA-900HNE Network Integrated Amplifier for the more extensively equipped model.
PMA-600NE or Marantz PM6007?
Choose the Denon PMA-600NE When
- Built-in Bluetooth is important
- Analogue Mode appeals
- A Denon CD player will be used
- One pair of speakers is sufficient
- The Denon presentation is preferred after demonstration
Consider the Marantz PM6007 When
- Speaker A and B outputs are useful
- Selectable digital filters appeal
- Bluetooth is not required
- A Marantz CD player will be used
- The Marantz presentation is preferred after demonstration
Explore the Marantz PM6007 Integrated Amplifier to compare another popular amplifier at a similar level.
Remote Control and System Operation
The supplied RC-1234 remote provides control over:
- Amplifier power and standby
- Input selection
- Volume
- Muting
- Compatible Denon CD players
- Compatible Denon network audio players
The remote includes dedicated operating modes for compatible Denon CD and network players.
Available CD-player commands can include:
- Power
- Play and pause
- Stop
- Track selection
- Random playback
- Repeat playback
- Programmed playback
- Pure Direct
- Display dimming
The remote may not operate every function on every Denon product.
IR Control Connections
Rear IR Control input and output connections allow compatible Denon network audio equipment to be integrated with the amplifier's control system.
These connections are intended for compatible Denon products rather than general-purpose trigger control.
Automatic Standby
Auto Standby is switched on by default.
The amplifier enters standby automatically when there has been no operation and no audio input for approximately 15 minutes.
The function can be disabled using the amplifier remote when required.
Black and Premium Silver Finishes
The PMA-600NE is available in black or premium silver.
Both finishes share the same metal front panel, internal circuitry, connections and published performance.
Placement and Ventilation
Place the amplifier on a strong, level and well-ventilated equipment support.
Avoid:
- Covering its ventilation openings
- Installing it inside a tightly sealed cabinet
- Placing another heat-producing product directly on top
- Positioning it beside a radiator
- Exposing it to direct sunlight
- Allowing moisture or liquids near the amplifier
- Running speaker cables where exposed conductors could touch
- Bundling audio cables tightly together with mains cables
Leave enough rear space for speaker, subwoofer, analogue, digital, control and mains connections.
Key Features
- Two-channel integrated amplifier
- 45W per channel into 8 ohms
- 70W per channel into 4 ohms
- 4 to 16-ohm speaker compatibility
- Advanced High Current amplifier circuit
- Single push-pull output stage
- High-current output transistors
- Discrete power-amplifier construction
- Wide-range amplifier design
- High-current dynamic power supply
- Schottky barrier diodes
- Solid internal heat sinks
- Main transformer with separate windings
- Signal Level Divided Construction
- Microprocessor Stop Mode
- One stereo pair of speaker terminals
- Bluetooth 5.1 reception
- SBC Bluetooth codec
- AAC Bluetooth codec
- Bluetooth standby
- Approximate 30m line-of-sight Bluetooth range
- 24-bit/192kHz digital-to-analogue converter
- PCM5141 DAC
- Two optical digital inputs
- One coaxial digital input
- Two-channel PCM support
- 32kHz to 192kHz digital input
- 16-bit and 24-bit digital input
- Moving-magnet phono input
- Turntable signal-ground terminal
- Four conventional analogue line inputs
- CD analogue input
- Network analogue input
- Auxiliary analogue input
- Recorder analogue input
- Analogue recording output
- Active-subwoofer output
- Front wired-headphone output
- Analogue Mode
- Switchable digital and Bluetooth circuitry
- Source Direct mode
- Bass control
- Treble control
- Balance adjustment
- Automatic standby
- IR Control input and output
- RC-1234 system remote control
- Compatible Denon CD-player control
- Compatible Denon network-player control
- Black finish available
- Premium silver finish available
- Metal front panel
- 434mm cabinet width
- Approximately 6.8kg weight
- Two-year Denon manufacturer warranty
Frequently Asked Questions
How powerful is the Denon PMA-600NE?
Denon specifies 45W per channel into 8 ohms from 20Hz to 20kHz, with both channels driven at 0.07% distortion.
Where does the 70W figure come from?
Denon specifies 70W per channel into 4 ohms at 1kHz with both channels driven at 0.7% distortion.
Which power figure should be used when comparing amplifiers?
The 45W full-range, 8-ohm specification provides the more representative comparison with conventional stereo-amplifier ratings.
Which speaker impedances are supported?
Denon specifies passive loudspeakers between 4 and 16 ohms.
Can two pairs of speakers be connected?
No. The PMA-600NE provides one stereo pair of speaker terminals.
Does it have Speaker A and B outputs?
No.
Can speakers be bi-wired from the amplifier?
It does not provide separate Speaker A and B terminals for conventional amplifier-side bi-wiring.
Does it include built-in music streaming?
No. It does not contain HEOS, Wi-Fi, Ethernet or internet music services.
Does it support AirPlay 2?
No.
Does it support Spotify Connect?
No. Spotify can be played from a compatible phone or computer through Bluetooth or through a separately connected streamer.
Does it have Bluetooth?
Yes. It can receive music from a compatible phone, tablet, portable player or computer.
Which Bluetooth version does it use?
Denon's European manual specifies Bluetooth 5.1.
Which Bluetooth codecs are supported?
SBC and AAC.
Does it support aptX?
No.
Can it send audio to Bluetooth headphones?
No. Bluetooth operates as an audio receiver rather than a headphone transmitter.
Can Bluetooth switch the amplifier on?
A previously paired device can wake the amplifier from Bluetooth standby when Analogue Mode is switched off.
Does it have a built-in DAC?
Yes. It uses a PCM5141 digital-to-analogue converter.
What is the maximum digital resolution?
Compatible two-channel PCM signals are supported at up to 24-bit/192kHz.
How many optical inputs are included?
Two.
Does it have a coaxial digital input?
Yes. One coaxial input is provided.
Does it have digital outputs?
No.
Can it connect to a television?
Yes. Use a compatible optical or coaxial digital output from the television.
Does it have HDMI ARC?
No.
Which audio format should the television output?
Set it to PCM, linear PCM or stereo PCM.
Does it decode Dolby Digital or DTS?
No. Do not send Dolby Digital, DTS, AAC or another compressed multichannel bitstream to the digital inputs.
Does it have a USB input?
No.
Can it connect directly to a computer by USB?
No. A computer can connect through a compatible optical or coaxial interface, Bluetooth or a separate USB DAC.
What is Analogue Mode?
Analogue Mode switches off the digital-input circuit and Bluetooth module while listening to an analogue source.
Can digital inputs be selected in Analogue Mode?
No. Coaxial, Optical 1, Optical 2 and Bluetooth are disabled.
What happens when Analogue Mode is selected during Bluetooth or digital playback?
The input changes automatically to CD and the amplifier mutes briefly while its circuitry changes state.
What does Source Direct do?
Source Direct bypasses the bass, treble and balance adjustment circuitry.
Can Source Direct and Analogue Mode be used together?
Yes, when listening to an analogue source.
Does it have a phono stage?
Yes. A moving-magnet phono input is included.
Can a moving-coil cartridge be connected directly?
No. A conventional low-output moving-coil cartridge requires a suitable external phono stage or step-up device.
Does it have a turntable ground connection?
Yes. A signal-ground terminal is provided.
How many analogue line inputs are included?
Four, labelled CD, Network, Auxiliary and Recorder.
Does it have a recording output?
Yes. A stereo RCA recording output is provided.
Can an external power amplifier be connected?
No. It does not provide a variable full-range stereo pre-amplifier output.
Can an active subwoofer be connected?
Yes. One dedicated line-level subwoofer output is provided.
Can it power a passive subwoofer?
No. The subwoofer must contain its own amplifier or use a suitable external subwoofer amplifier.
Does the amplifier control the subwoofer crossover?
No user-adjustable bass-management controls are provided. Crossover, level and phase are normally adjusted on the connected subwoofer.
Does it have a headphone output?
Yes. A wired-headphone socket is located on the front panel.
What happens when headphones are connected?
The loudspeaker and active-subwoofer outputs are muted.
Can the remote control a Denon CD player?
Yes. The supplied RC-1234 remote includes controls for compatible Denon CD players.
Does it switch into standby automatically?
Yes. Auto Standby is enabled by default and activates after approximately 15 minutes without operation or an incoming audio signal.
Which colours are available?
Black and premium silver.
What are the dimensions?
Approximately 434 x 121 x 308mm (W x H x D).
How much does it weigh?
Denon's current UK product information specifies approximately 6.8kg.
What warranty is included?
Denon provides a two-year manufacturer warranty through an authorised retailer, subject to its full terms and proof of purchase.
Related Denon Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Denon PMA-600NE demonstrations
- Stereo speaker matching
- Comparisons with the Marantz PM6007
- Comparisons with the Denon PMA-900HNE
- Denon DCD-600NE system matching
- Turntable and moving-magnet cartridge advice
- External phono-stage matching
- Bluetooth pairing and setup
- Television optical and coaxial setup
- Stereo PCM configuration
- Analogue Mode and Source Direct guidance
- Active-subwoofer integration
- Speaker-cable selection and termination
- Equipment-support and ventilation advice
- Room and speaker-positioning guidance
- Denon manufacturer-warranty guidance
- Ongoing system and after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss speakers, Bluetooth, television sound, turntables, phono stages, subwoofers and system matching for the Denon PMA-600NE.