Denon - PMA-S10II Solid state integrated amplifier

Denon PMA-S10II

Description:

Denon PMA-S10 II – Hi-Fi Integrated Amplifier UHC-MOS

The Denon PMA-S10 II is a reference integrated amplifier produced in Japan between 1997 and 2001, positioned at the top of Denon’s consumer range of the era. Aimed at high-end audiophile listening, it represents one of the most successful examples of applying UHC-MOS technology in a compact and versatile design.

The heart of the device is the UHC single push-pull circuit, employing UHC-MOS transistors (Ultra High Current MOS-FET) developed to combine the current delivery capability typical of bipolar transistors with the natural tonal characteristics of MOS-FET devices. This allows the amplifier to handle difficult loads — such as low-impedance speakers — without sacrificing signal quality in the most delicate dynamic nuances.

The internal structure adopts a twin-monaural configuration with fully separated amplification blocks for the left and right channels, and a six-block shielded layout to isolate circuits at different signal levels. The main power transformer is mounted on a multimaterial laminated structure with high vibration-damping capacity, minimizing the transfer of mechanical resonances to the active circuits. The isolation feet, made of sintered alloy, convert residual vibrations into heat rather than propagating them to the chassis.

The power section uses high-current fast-recovery diodes in parallel, paired with low-impedance electrolytic capacitors and film capacitors with complementary frequency characteristics. The internal wiring from the transformer to the output stages is made of large-section OFC to minimize energy losses. The stated output is 100W + 100W into 8 Ω and 200W + 200W into 4 Ω.

The phono stage supports MM and MC cartridges with a discrete first-stage, low-noise FET circuit, powered by a dedicated and independent stabilization section. The signal-to-noise ratio reaches 91 dB for MM and 78 dB for MC, impressive values for an integrated amplifier of this generation. For those wondering what is the best vintage integrated amplifier for low-output MC cartridges, the PMA-S10 II remains a solid reference today.

The speaker output terminals are machined brass with gold plating, with a 6 mm widened terminal block hole to accommodate generous conductors. The RCA connectors, also large with gold plating, and the internal OFC wiring complete a build quality consistent with the product’s positioning. The rear panel offers two switched outputs and one un-switched output, remote control included.

Weighing 30 kg and with a 1.6 mm steel chassis with a “separate” level paint finish, the PMA-S10 II belongs to that category of uncompromising Japanese integrated amplifiers of the 1990s. On the used and quality vintage hi-fi market, it is considered a rare piece — production was extremely limited — and continues to attract collectors and enthusiasts seeking performance barely replicable at equivalent prices with new equipment.

Specifications:

Dimensions (LxWxH) 434 x 181 x 485 mm
Weight: 30.0 kg
Finish: Champagne Gold
Country of origin: Japan
RMS power per channel: 100 W
Reference load: 8 ohm
Amplification type: Class AB
Total harmonic distortion (THD) 0.01 %
S/N ratio: 110 dB
Analog inputs: Line, Phono MM, Phono MC
Phono stage: MM+MC
Line input sensitivity: 150 mV
Input impedance: 47 kOhm
Phono load impedance: 47 Ω
Year of production: 1997-2001
Electrical consumption: 300 W
Remote control
Note: Look closely—the photos are part of the description
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