Audio T Verdict
The Denon DP-450USB is a versatile turntable for anyone who wants the enjoyment of vinyl without being restricted to an amplifier containing a dedicated phono input.
Its switchable moving-magnet phono stage allows it to connect to either a conventional line input or a suitable phono input, while the front USB connection provides a straightforward way to preserve records as MP3 or uncompressed WAV files.
The S-shaped tonearm, removable universal headshell, adjustable tracking force and anti-skating control also provide more setup and cartridge flexibility than many simpler plug-and-play turntables.
Support for 33?, 45 and 78rpm records, automatic tonearm lift and an unusual removable dust cover complete a practical package that balances convenience, flexibility and proper Hi-Fi operation.
Denon DP-450USB Hi-Fi Turntable with USB
The Denon DP-450USB is a three-speed belt-drive turntable supplied with a moving-magnet cartridge, switchable phono stage and direct USB recording.
It is designed for listeners who want a turntable that is straightforward to use but still provides adjustable tracking force, anti-skating, cartridge replacement and external phono-stage upgrade options.
Its principal features include:
- Belt-drive operation
- DC servo motor with rotational-speed monitoring
- 33?, 45 and 78rpm electronic speed selection
- Static-balanced S-shaped tonearm
- Removable universal headshell
- Pre-fitted moving-magnet cartridge
- Switchable built-in moving-magnet phono stage
- Direct MP3 and WAV recording to USB flash drive
- Automatic tonearm lift and platter stop
- Removable dust cover with record-display stand
- Black and white finish options
Belt-Drive Turntable
The platter is driven by a belt connected to a DC servo motor.
Separating the motor from the centre spindle helps reduce the direct transmission of motor vibration into the platter, record and cartridge.
The DP-450USB also uses a sensor to monitor platter speed. The motor-control system can then make corrections to help maintain accurate and stable rotation.
Denon publishes wow and flutter of 0.08% WRMS and a signal-to-noise ratio of 65dB for the current UK model.
Three-Speed Record Playback
A rotary control on the front-left corner selects the required speed without moving the drive belt manually.
The available settings are:
- 33?rpm for most 12-inch albums and many 7-inch records
- 45rpm for singles, EPs and selected audiophile pressings
- 78rpm for compatible older records
A 45rpm centre adaptor is supplied for records with a large centre hole.
Check the Cartridge Before Playing 78rpm Records
The turntable motor supports 78rpm, but many traditional shellac records require a wider dedicated 78rpm stylus than the stylus fitted for conventional microgroove LPs and singles.
Using an unsuitable stylus may produce poor results and could damage the record or stylus. Ask Audio T to confirm the correct cartridge, stylus and tracking force for the records you intend to play.
S-Shaped Tonearm
The DP-450USB uses a static-balanced S-shaped tonearm with an effective length of 220mm and a published overhang of 16mm.
The curved arm design is partnered with:
- An adjustable rear counterweight
- A calibrated tracking-force ring
- An adjustable anti-skating control
- A damped cueing lever
- A lockable armrest
- A removable universal headshell
These adjustments allow the tonearm to be balanced correctly and matched to a range of suitable replacement cartridges.
Pre-Fitted Moving-Magnet Cartridge
A Denon moving-magnet cartridge is supplied pre-mounted to the removable headshell.
The cartridge has a published output of 2.5mV at 1kHz and is designed to track at approximately 2.0g.
The supplied cartridge allows the turntable to be used after the platter, headshell and counterweight have been installed and the tonearm has been balanced correctly.
The recommended replacement stylus is the Denon DSN-85. Denon estimates approximately 400 hours of playback from the supplied stylus, although actual life will depend on record condition, cleanliness, tracking force and handling.
Replaceable Cartridge and Universal Headshell
The removable headshell makes cartridge replacement easier than on a tonearm with a fixed headshell.
Denon specifies compatibility with cartridges weighing approximately 5g to 13g.
A replacement cartridge must be:
- Mechanically compatible with the headshell
- Within the supported weight range
- Aligned to the correct overhang
- Used with the correct tracking force
- Matched to the correct anti-skating setting
- Connected to a compatible phono stage
Denon specifies that the stylus tip should sit approximately 50mm from the headshell mounting surface, providing the required 16mm overhang.
Browse turntable cartridges at Audio T or ask your local store to recommend, fit and align a suitable replacement.
Switchable Built-In Phono Stage
A record cartridge produces a much smaller signal than a CD player, music streamer or other conventional source. It also requires RIAA equalisation before it can be played through a normal amplifier input.
The DP-450USB contains a moving-magnet phono stage that can be switched on or off according to the equipment being used.
Set Equalizer to On When
- Connecting to an AUX input
- Connecting to a normal analogue line input
- Using an amplifier without a phono input
- Connecting to suitable active speakers
- Using a compact music system with a line input
Set Equalizer to Off When
- Connecting to an amplifier's moving-magnet phono input
- Using a dedicated external moving-magnet phono stage
- Using another suitable external phono pre-amplifier
- An upgraded phono stage will perform the RIAA equalisation
- A suitable ground connection is available
Do Not Use Both Phono Stages at the Same Time
Connecting the DP-450USB to a phono input while its internal equalizer is switched on will normally produce heavily distorted and excessively loud sound.
Connecting it to a normal line input with the equalizer switched off will produce an extremely quiet and tonally incorrect result.
Check the rear equalizer switch before playing a record.
External Phono-Stage Upgrade
The internal phono stage provides a convenient starting point, but it can be bypassed when a suitable external moving-magnet phono stage is available.
An external stage may provide improvements in:
- Background-noise performance
- Dynamic range
- Bass control
- Clarity and detail
- Stereo imaging
- Cartridge loading and upgrade flexibility
Set the Denon's equalizer switch to off and connect its RCA cable and earth wire to the external phono stage.
Explore the Rega Fono MM Mk5 as one possible dedicated moving-magnet upgrade.
Moving-Coil Cartridge Compatibility
The removable headshell and adjustable tonearm allow a mechanically compatible moving-coil cartridge to be considered.
However, the DP-450USB's built-in phono stage supports moving-magnet cartridges only.
A conventional low-output moving-coil cartridge therefore requires:
- A suitable external moving-coil phono stage
- Correct gain and electrical loading
- Accurate cartridge alignment
- Correct tracking force and anti-skating
- Confirmation that its weight suits the tonearm
USB Recording Is Not Available with a Moving-Coil Cartridge
Denon states that direct USB recording cannot be performed when the turntable is fitted with a moving-coil cartridge.
The USB recording circuit is designed around the internal moving-magnet signal path. Customers who need both cartridge upgrades and digital recording should discuss the complete setup with Audio T before changing the supplied cartridge.
Direct USB Recording
The front USB Type-A connection allows the analogue signal from a record to be converted into a digital file and saved directly to a compatible USB flash drive.
No computer needs to be connected during recording.
Two recording formats are available:
- MP3: 44.1kHz at 192kbps
- WAV: 44.1kHz at 16-bit
MP3 uses data compression to create smaller files, while WAV preserves the recording as uncompressed CD-quality PCM audio and uses considerably more storage space.
Recording a Record to USB
- Insert a compatible FAT16 or FAT32 USB flash drive.
- Place the stylus over a silent section before the music begins.
- Press the MP3 or WAV recording button.
- Begin record playback.
- Allow the required side or section to play.
- Press the same recording button again to stop.
- Wait until recording has stopped before removing the drive.
One continuous file is created between pressing record and pressing stop. Recording does not stop automatically when the record finishes.
The USB Port Records but Does Not Play Files
The USB connection cannot play music stored on a USB drive.
It also cannot operate as a computer USB audio input, connect directly to a Windows computer or Mac, work through a USB hub or record to an external hard drive.
Use a directly connected, writable USB flash drive formatted as FAT16 or FAT32.
MusiCut for DENON
Denon's documentation describes MusiCut for DENON software for editing MP3 recordings created by the turntable.
Its functions can include:
- Splitting a continuous recording into individual tracks
- Detecting silent gaps between songs
- Assigning track numbers
- Editing file names
- Retrieving compatible song information
The software is intended for MP3 recordings rather than WAV files. Software availability and compatibility with current computer operating systems should be checked before relying on it as part of the purchase decision.
Automatic Tonearm Lift and Platter Stop
With Auto Stop enabled, the tonearm raises automatically when it reaches the end of a compatible record and the platter stops rotating.
This helps reduce unnecessary stylus wear when the listener is unable to lift the arm immediately.
The feature does not return the tonearm to its rest. After the arm has lifted, move it back manually and secure it in the armrest.
Auto Stop is enabled using a button on the rear panel and is switched on by default.
Manual Cueing and Operation
The DP-450USB remains a manually operated turntable during normal playback.
The listener must:
- Select the correct speed
- Release the armrest
- Position the tonearm above the required groove
- Lower the tonearm using the cueing lever
- Return the tonearm to its rest after playback
The damped cueing mechanism lowers the stylus gradually, reducing the risk of dropping it heavily onto the record surface.
Removable Dual-Purpose Dust Cover
The sculpted dust cover is removable rather than permanently hinged to the rear of the plinth.
Removing the cover during playback avoids creating a large hinged surface that can collect airborne vibration or acoustic energy from nearby loudspeakers.
When it is not covering the turntable, the supplied stand holds the cover upright and allows it to support the sleeve of the record currently being played.
Remove the Dust Cover During Playback
Denon instructs users to remove the dust cover before playing a record.
Store it safely in the supplied stand rather than leaning it against furniture or placing it where it could be scratched.
Initial Turntable Setup
The DP-450USB requires some assembly and adjustment before first use.
The main setup stages are:
- Place the turntable on a strong, level and stable surface.
- Fit the platter over the centre spindle.
- Use the supplied ribbon to place the drive belt around the motor pulley.
- Fit the turntable mat.
- Install the rear counterweight.
- Attach and lock the headshell.
- Balance the tonearm horizontally.
- Zero the tracking-force scale.
- Set the tracking force to 2.0g.
- Set anti-skating to 2.
- Connect the audio cable and earth wire as required.
- Select the correct equalizer setting.
- Connect the supplied AC adapter.
Complete the mechanical setup before connecting the AC adapter to the mains.
Tracking Force and Anti-Skating
The supplied cartridge is designed to operate at approximately 2.0g tracking force.
After balancing the tonearm, rotate the tracking-force scale to zero without moving the counterweight. Then rotate the complete counterweight until the 2.0 mark aligns with the reference line.
Set the anti-skating dial to 2 so that it corresponds with the tracking force.
Incorrect adjustment may cause:
- Poor tracking
- Distortion
- Channel imbalance
- Skipping
- Uneven stylus wear
- Unnecessary record wear
A proper stylus-pressure gauge provides a more accurate confirmation than relying solely on the calibrated counterweight scale.
Placement and Isolation
A turntable converts extremely small mechanical movements into an electrical signal, so its support and position can have a substantial effect on performance.
Place the DP-450USB:
- On a rigid and level support
- Away from loudspeaker cabinets
- Away from heavy footfall where practical
- Away from radiators and direct sunlight
- Away from power supplies that may produce hum
- Where the tonearm can move without obstruction
- Where the removable cover can be stored safely
If vibration through a suspended floor causes skipping or acoustic feedback, a correctly installed turntable wall shelf may provide a substantial improvement.
Hum and Grounding
The supplied audio cable includes an earth wire.
When the Denon's internal phono stage is bypassed, connect the earth wire to the ground terminal on the amplifier or external phono stage where available.
If the internal phono stage is switched on and the turntable is connected to a normal line input, Denon recommends securing the unused earth wire safely out of the way.
To reduce hum:
- Keep the AC adapter away from the cartridge and audio cable
- Avoid running audio and mains cables tightly together
- Check that the headshell is locked securely
- Confirm that cartridge lead wires are firmly connected
- Use the correct equalizer setting
- Connect the earth wire where appropriate
Stylus and Record Care
Dust collected by the stylus can reduce clarity, increase distortion and accelerate wear.
For best results:
- Use a suitable record-cleaning brush before playback
- Clean the stylus gently from back to front
- Never brush sideways across the cantilever
- Store records vertically in suitable inner sleeves
- Keep fingerprints away from the playing surface
- Replace damaged or heavily worn records where necessary
- Check tracking force after moving the turntable
Browse record-cleaning products at Audio T for brushes, sleeves, fluids and cleaning machines.
Denon DP-450USB or Rega Planar 2?
Choose the Denon DP-450USB When
- Direct USB recording is important
- A built-in phono stage is required
- 78rpm playback is useful
- Automatic tonearm lift is preferred
- A removable universal headshell is useful
- Black or white finishes suit the room
Consider the Rega Planar 2 When
- A simpler performance-focused design is preferred
- USB recording is not required
- A separate phono stage or phono-equipped amplifier is available
- 33? and 45rpm playback is sufficient
- Automatic lift and stop are unnecessary
- A traditional full dust cover is preferred
Explore the Rega Planar 2 Turntable with Nd3 Cartridge to compare a more minimalist alternative.
Black and White Finishes
The Denon DP-450USB is available in black or white.
Both finishes provide the same tonearm, cartridge, built-in phono stage, USB recording and three-speed operation.
Key Features
- Three-speed Hi-Fi turntable
- Belt-drive operation
- DC servo motor
- Rotational-speed monitoring
- 33?rpm playback
- 45rpm playback
- 78rpm playback
- Electronic speed selection
- Static-balanced S-shaped tonearm
- 220mm effective tonearm length
- 16mm overhang
- Adjustable counterweight
- Adjustable tracking force
- Adjustable anti-skating
- Damped cueing lever
- Removable universal headshell
- Pre-fitted moving-magnet cartridge
- 2.5mV cartridge output
- 2.0g recommended tracking force
- Denon DSN-85 replacement stylus
- Switchable built-in MM phono stage
- 150mV phono-equalized output
- Stereo RCA output
- Separate earth wire
- Direct USB recording
- MP3 recording at 44.1kHz and 192kbps
- WAV recording at 44.1kHz and 16-bit
- FAT16 USB support
- FAT32 USB support
- Front MP3 recording button
- Front WAV recording button
- Automatic tonearm lift
- Automatic platter stop
- Switchable Auto Stop
- Removable dust cover
- Dust-cover record-display stand
- 45rpm centre adaptor
- Black finish available
- White finish available
- Approximately 414mm width
- Approximately 5.8kg weight with cover
- Two-year Denon manufacturer warranty
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Denon DP-450USB include a cartridge?
Yes. A moving-magnet cartridge is supplied pre-mounted to the removable headshell.
Is the cartridge already aligned?
Yes. The supplied cartridge is mounted to the headshell, but the headshell, counterweight, tracking force and anti-skating must still be installed and adjusted correctly.
What tracking force should be used?
Denon specifies approximately 2.0g for the supplied cartridge.
What should the anti-skating control be set to?
Set it to 2 when using the supplied cartridge at 2.0g tracking force.
Which replacement stylus is required?
The official replacement stylus is the Denon DSN-85.
How long should the stylus last?
Denon estimates approximately 400 hours, although record cleanliness, correct tracking force and careful handling will affect stylus life.
Can the cartridge be upgraded?
Yes. Denon specifies cartridges weighing approximately 5g to 13g, but alignment, overhang, tracking force, anti-skating and phono-stage compatibility must all be checked.
Can it use a moving-coil cartridge?
Potentially, but a suitable external moving-coil phono stage is required. The built-in phono stage supports moving-magnet cartridges only.
Can USB recording be used with a moving-coil cartridge?
No. Denon states that USB recording cannot be performed with an MC cartridge.
Does it have a built-in phono stage?
Yes. A switchable moving-magnet phono stage is included.
Can it connect to an AUX input?
Yes. Set the rear equalizer switch to on.
Can it connect to an amplifier's phono input?
Yes. Set the rear equalizer switch to off and connect the earth wire where appropriate.
Why is the sound extremely quiet?
The internal equalizer may be switched off while the turntable is connected to a normal line input. Switch it on or use a suitable phono input.
Why is the sound extremely loud and distorted?
The internal equalizer may be switched on while the turntable is connected to another phono stage. Switch the Denon's equalizer off.
Which speeds are supported?
33?, 45 and 78rpm.
Can it play 78rpm shellac records?
The turntable supports 78rpm rotation, but a suitable dedicated 78rpm cartridge or stylus may be required for traditional shellac records.
Is a 45rpm adaptor included?
Yes.
Is it fully automatic?
No. It is manually cued, but it can automatically raise the tonearm and stop the platter at the end of a record.
Does the tonearm return automatically?
No. It lifts automatically when Auto Stop is enabled, but it must be returned to the armrest manually.
Can Auto Stop be switched off?
Yes. A control is provided on the rear panel.
Can it record records directly to USB?
Yes. A compatible USB flash drive can be used without connecting a computer.
Which USB recording formats are supported?
MP3 at 44.1kHz and 192kbps or uncompressed WAV at 44.1kHz and 16-bit.
Does recording stop automatically?
No. Press the selected MP3 or WAV recording button again when the recording is complete.
Does it automatically split an album into tracks?
No. One continuous file is created for each recording operation. Compatible editing software can be used afterwards.
Can it play music from a USB drive?
No. The USB port is for recording only.
Can it connect directly to a computer by USB?
No. It is not a computer USB audio interface.
Can it record to an external hard drive?
No. Denon specifies compatible USB flash drives rather than external hard drives.
Which USB formats are supported?
Compatible FAT16 and FAT32 USB flash drives are supported.
Can a USB hub be used?
No.
Should the dust cover remain fitted during playback?
No. Denon instructs users to remove it before playing a record.
What is the dust-cover stand for?
It stores the removable cover during playback and can display the sleeve of the record being played.
Which finishes are available?
Black and white.
What are the dimensions?
Approximately 414 x 132 x 342mm (W x H x D).
How much does it weigh?
Approximately 5.8kg with the dust cover.
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 DP-450USB demonstrations
- Turntable assembly and setup
- Tonearm balancing
- Tracking-force adjustment
- Anti-skating adjustment
- Cartridge alignment and fitting
- Moving-magnet cartridge advice
- Moving-coil compatibility advice
- Internal and external phono-stage comparisons
- Amplifier and active-speaker matching
- USB recording guidance
- 78rpm cartridge and stylus advice
- Turntable-support and isolation advice
- Hum and grounding assistance
- Record and stylus-cleaning advice
- Denon manufacturer-warranty guidance
- Ongoing turntable and after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss setup, cartridge options, phono stages, USB recording and system matching for the Denon DP-450USB.