Denon PMA-1520
Denon PMA-920
(1988 - 1989)


Powerful integrated with 16bit/4fs digital facilities (identical to that of the DAP-5500), high-speed opto-couplers between the pre and main stages for Denon's staple "Optical Class-A" bias system (introduced with the POA-8000 1981 monoblocks).

Having used the similar but non-digitalia-equipped smaller sibling for several years (PMA-920, below), I'd say these did very well on my overplayed AR-3a but quite poorly on my NS-10M Studio monitors. Very powerful, very tight but almost bright: forgiving loudspeakers necessary, otherwise you're in for a slight fizz.
Both optionally available with high-gloss sideburns to warm up the scene some.