The DRM-555 by Denon is one of the rare single-transport cassette decks that features autoreverse capabilities. On some players, this feature compromises the performance of the tape playback, but the advanced full-logic transport and tape head electronics ensure that the DRM-555 performs just as well in either direction. This deck features both Dolby B and C noise reduction and Dolby HX Pro headroom extension to increase high-frequency performance at higher recording levels. To make a better recording from an FM broadcast, Denon includes a switch enabling you to insert an MPX filter to block the broadcast's carrier signal from causing mistracking in the Dolby noise reduction. The DRM-555 also has a manual bias control for fine tuned adjustments.
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Written By
rickko(Unregistered User)
Date Created
01/10/2004
Summary
After 26 years of excellent service my Sanyo deck stopped outputting signals, sigh. Time to move on... Instead of reparing it I decided to replace it with the DENON DRM-555.
I find it to be highly satisfactory except for the noisy (mechanical) transport when it auto reverses, stops, starts etc.
The price was right because it was a "demo" model. Unfortunately the MPX filter switch does not work as far as I can tell. It does not illuminate the MPX indicator on the display. If 'The Good Guys' can't fix it under their full service contract they must replace it with a new one. I'm OK with that.
All features (other than noted above) seem to work well. I run it into a Nikko EQ-II equalizer so I can easily compensate for any sound deficiencies that may be inherent to the recorded signal output.
I've played commercial tapes as well as tapes I recorded on the Sanyo twenty-six years ago. They all sound as good as when they were recorded.
There is good separation of stereo.
I found the recorded quality of various input signals from the turntable, FM Stereo Tuner and CD connected to my system to be excellent.
I hope this tape deck will perform as well and as long as did the Sanyo.
Strength
The display's brightness is adjustable.
Automatic sensing and biasing of tape type (i.e. Normal, C02, Metal, etc.).
Auto Reverse.
Selectable recording: Doly B, C NR, or Normal.
HDX sensing.
Auto silence 4 second recording control .
Excellent control of input signal.
Memory feature allows one to mark a specific location on playback so you can return to it by simple push of a button.
Good looks.
Weakness
You can't adjust the output signal.
The MPX Filter may not be working.
Left & Right channels input signal when recording cannot be controlled.
Tape transport area not illuminated.
The Balance, Bias and Headphone volume adjusting knobs have side-to-side, up-and-down play in them (cheap IMO).
I miss the analog VU meters.
The transport mechanism is VERY noisy, I'd say that's my biggest disappointment.
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5.00 out of 5
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Written By
evade(Unregistered User)
From
Kanata ON Canada
Date Created
07/06/2003
Summary
Good but not great sound as I used to get from my Aurex (Toshiba). Not quite the quality of build and construction I would expect from the Denon name.
Strength
Good, but not great sound.
Weakness
Noisy transport and auto-reverse.
Made in China quality.
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Written By
(Unregistered User)
From
Neuchâtel (Switzerland)
Date Created
04/24/2003
Summary
This cassette player/recorder sounds quite well, it is functionnal, and has minimal functions. Looking at the DENON label, I expected more of this product.
Strength
Sounds well. not expensive. You can choose the level of the record. Bias fine and balance buttons. Vu-meter. Dolby B and C.
Weakness
Heavy and noisy mechanism, only two inputs. Counter NOT in minuts and seconds. NO specialized commands for rewinding. Counter is not very precise.
3.33 of 5
