With the DP-500BT, Denon expands its line of turntables with a model that combines analogue charm with wireless Bluetooth connectivity. Inspired by the DP-3000NE, this new belt-driven model features a semi-automatic design, a phono preamp, and Bluetooth connectivity compatible with aptX HD and aptX Adaptive. Priced at €849, it is designed to meet the needs of vinyl enthusiasts who want to enjoy their records on both a traditional hi-fi system and with wireless speakers or headphones.
A carefully crafted design for stable vinyl playback
The Denon DP-500BT draws on the design principles of the brand’s traditional hi-fi turntables. It features a chassis designed to minimise vibrations, combined with wide feet that incorporate metal components and a rubber base. Its finish, accented with metallic details, gives it a sleek and refined look, continuing the aesthetic of the Denon DP-3000NE.
The turntable’s rotation is driven by a belt-drive system coupled with a DC motor. This design helps isolate the platter from vibrations generated by the motor. The die-cast aluminium platter also contributes to rotational stability, a key factor in maintaining a consistent playback speed and allowing the cartridge to read the information engraved in the groove smoothly.
The turntable also features a statically balanced S-shaped tonearm, designed to ensure precise tracking. It is equipped with a moving-magnet (MM) cartridge, mounted on a removable universal headshell. The DP-500BT supports the three main rotation speeds: 33, 45, and 78 revolutions per minute. It can therefore play various record formats, provided the appropriate stylus is used.
Denon DP-500BT: aptX HD and Adaptive Bluetooth
One of the standout features of the Denon DP-500BT is its Bluetooth connectivity. This allows you to stream audio directly from vinyl records to a compatible speaker or headphones, without needing a traditional hi-fi amplifier. This feature makes it easy to integrate the new Denon turntable into a living room or listening space that already has wireless audio equipment.
To ensure this transmission, Denon includes several Bluetooth codecs, including SBC, aptX, aptX HD, and aptX Adaptive. In particular, aptX HD allows for the transmission of a digital audio signal with a higher resolution than that of the standard SBC codec. Meanwhile, aptX Adaptive adjusts the transmission settings based on the conditions of the wireless connection.
The Denon DP-500BT semi-automatic turntable features an RCA analogue output, along with a built-in, switchable phono preamp. This allows users to connect the turntable directly to a line input on an amplifier that lacks a phono input or to active speakers with an auxiliary input. Users can also disable this preamp to use a phono input or an external preamp. This dual-approach design offers several options for expanding their system.
Note from the expert
The electrical signal output by a phono cartridge is very weak and requires special processing before being sent to an amplifier. The phono preamplifier performs two essential functions: amplifying this signal to line level and applying RIAA equalisation, which restores the frequency balance altered during the record’s pressing. Thanks to its built-in phono preamp, the Denon DP-500BT can be connected directly to an amplifier’s line input or to active speakers, without requiring an external preamp.
A semi-automatic turntable designed for everyday use
Denon has also prioritised ease of use with a semi-automatic system. Music lovers position the tonearm on the record themselves to start playback. At the end of the side, the tonearm lifts automatically and the turntable stops spinning. This feature minimises unnecessary wear on the stylus when the record reaches the end.
With the DP-500BT, Denon offers a turntable that combines the traditional mechanical elements of analogue playback with the capabilities of modern audio equipment. Its belt drive, aluminium platter, S-shaped tonearm, and MM cartridge form the foundation of its hi-fi design. Bluetooth aptX HD and Adaptive, the switchable phono preamp, and the automatic tonearm lift provide even greater flexibility for everyday use.
