Denon PMA-2000AE (2005–)
The PMA-2000AE is a pre-main (integrated) amplifier that Denon released in July 2005 at a Japanese list price of ¥150,000. It was developed as the successor to the PMA-2000 IV. The "AE" stands for Advanced Evolution, which puts it near Denon's higher-end SA series. It is a big dual-mono design rated at 80W + 80W into 8 ohms (20 Hz - 20 kHz, 0.07% THD), with a maximum practical output of 160W + 160W into 4 ohms at 1 kHz. It weighs 24.0 kg and measures 434 × 181 × 480 mm (W×H×D).
The output stage is a single push-pull circuit built around UHC-MOS (Ultra High Current) devices. Denon claimed they could supply three to ten times the current of a conventional amplifier element. The power supply is unusually elaborate. It has two transformers connected in parallel with an LC (Leakage Canceling) mounting method to reduce stray flux, independent winding sections for preamp and output stages, high-current Schottky barrier diodes for rectification, and a large block electrolytic capacitor. Inside, the layout is twin-monaural, with the power amplifier blocks arranged in left/right symmetry. The chassis is a six-block separated structure made from 1.6 mm black-treated steel plate. Denon also used its Precision Signal Ground and Precision Mechanical Ground schemes, OFC internal wiring, and machined, gold-plated pin jacks for the phono and CD inputs.
The phono stage is fully discrete, with a low-noise FET in the first stage. A rear-panel switch selects MM or MC. MM input sensitivity is 2.5 mV/47 kΩ with RIAA deviation of ±0.5 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. MC is 0.2 mV/100 Ω with ±0.5 dB from 30 Hz to 20 kHz. Line input sensitivity is 135 mV/47 kΩ with Source Direct off, and 135 mV/16 kΩ with Source Direct engaged. Signal-to-noise is rated at 108 dB for line inputs, 89 dB for MM (at 5 mV), and 74 dB for MC (at 0.5 mV). Frequency response extends to 100 kHz ( - 3 dB). A Power Amp Direct input bypasses the preamp section entirely and switches from the front panel. There is also a pre-out for another amplifier or subwoofer. Hi-Fi Review noted the amp has a bypassable tone control, and that the signal path can be cut to a minimum by using the direct input to connect a source straight through.
The weight needs a caveat. A Japanese retailer listing gives 9.8 kg, which conflicts with the 24.0 kg figure from audio-database.com. With the dual transformers and six-block construction described above, the heavier figure seems more plausible.
Documentation on the PMA-2000AE's reception is thin. No period reviews from major US or UK publications have surfaced, and the record is mostly owner forum threads and classified listings. What exists is positive: owners describe it as powerful, rich-sounding, and well-built. Owners report a jumpy input selector (a DIY fix video exists) and occasional trouble with power-on or howling during vinyl playback. The amplifier is still on the used market, with asking prices from roughly €800 in Europe to around US$1,499 from a Japanese dealer.
eBay Listings
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.
Related Models
- Denon DL-160 (1979)
- Denon PMA-717 (1984–86)
- Denon AU-310 (1975)
- Denon AU-340 (1978)
- Denon DA-401 (1975)
- Eico 3150 (1967)
- Fisher CUSTOM-ELECTRA-I (K-14/K-15) (1957)
- Fisher CUSTOM-ELECTRA IV (E33/E44) (1960)
- Akai AM-2400 (1978)
- Akai AM-2600 (1977)