Denon PMA-715R (1994–1996)

The Denon PMA-715R is a stereo integrated amplifier made from 1994 to 1996. It was sold alongside the nearly identical PMA-715RG, a gold-finished version with wooden side panels. The 715R itself came in a black metal case without side panels, and the two shared the same internal circuitry. Prices were ¥59,800 for the 715R and ¥66,000 for the 715RG around 1996.

Denon put some thoughtful engineering into this chassis. The amplifier uses what the company called a "super stable A circuit" to keep the power transistor's operating point locked to an ideal state regardless of temperature drift. The S.L.D.C. (Signal Level Divided Construction) layout physically separates the small-signal, large-signal, and microcomputer circuits to minimize interference. A double-structured chassis and a heavy transformer base add rigidity. Denon also fitted a low-impedance volume control, which they claimed meaningfully improved the signal-to-noise ratio at normal listening levels.

The phono stage is a real highlight. It handles both MM and MC cartridges, with RIAA accuracy of ±0.5 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. The MM input is rated at 2.5 mV/47 kΩ with a 94 dB S/N ratio. The MC input accepts 0.2 mV/100 Ω at 75 dB. For line-level sources, the S/N ratio is a strong 107 dB with Source Direct engaged. Power output is rated at 65W + 65W into 8 ohms (20 Hz-20 kHz), or 120W + 120W into 4 ohms per EIAJ, with total harmonic distortion of 0.008% at 1 kHz. The amplifier also has bass and treble tone controls (±8 dB at 100 Hz and 10 kHz), a loudness contour, and switched and unswitched AC outlets.

The 715R came with the RC-176 infrared system remote, which could control compatible Denon CD players, cassette decks, and tuners. A service manual covering both the PMA-915R/RG and PMA-715R/RG exists, which confirms the 915-series as a sibling model. The two are often discussed together by owners, with some saying they are "almost no different."

Among vintage Denon collectors, the 715R is regarded as a well-built, functionally complete amplifier that represents good value. One owner reported a volume pot that causes channel imbalance. That was a "99% certain" hypothesis, not a confirmed diagnosis.

Known Specifications

Output: 65W + 65W (8Ω, 20 Hz–20 kHz); 120W + 120W (4Ω, EIAJ)
THD: 0.008% (rated output −3 dB, 1 kHz, 8Ω)
Phono: MM 2.5 mV/47 kΩ; MC 0.2 mV/100 Ω
Line inputs: 150 mV/47 kΩ (Source Direct off); 150 mV/10 kΩ (Source Direct on)
S/N ratio: 107 dB (line, Source Direct on)
Power consumption: 162W
Dimensions (PMA-715R): 434 × 141 × 351 mm; 9.4 kg
Dimensions (PMA-715RG): 470 × 141 × 351 mm; 10.4 kg
Remote: RC-176, infrared, 2× AA batteries