New DN-C500E Dual Disc CD Recorder from Denon

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Denon Electronics was showing the new DN-C550R dual-drive combination CD player/CD-R/CD-RW recorder. With the increased popularity of dubbing and recording compact discs, Denon has developed the new DN-C550R Player/Recorder, making it easier than ever to create CDs in one, all-inclusive package. Professional features such as balanced XLR inputs and coaxial S/PDIF inputs (SCMS defeatable) make the DN-C550R invaluable for pro-quality CD recording. An added feature is a second drive allowing for professional dubbing and playback of CDs.

The DN-C550R is packed with features allowing its interface with many of the compact disc formats available today. Drive 1 can be used as a dedicated Playback deck, accepting both pro and consumer CDs, CD-Rs, and CD-RWs, as well as supporting playback of HDCD encoded discs via the built-in HDCD decoder. Drive 2 can function as either a CD-R/CD-RW recorder, or as a second playback drive with the same playback functions as Drive 1. Both drives of the DN-C550R are also PC/data disc compatible, while both analog and digital inputs of Drive 2 are SCMS defeatable. The analog XLR inputs feature full 24-bit A/D conversion for highly accurate recordings from analog sources with increased dynamic range. Digital coaxial or optical inputs are included, and using the internal digital sampling frequency converter, the DN-C550R will convert 32kHz and 48kHz rates to the CD standard 44.1kHz. Furthermore, a special text input feature allows disc and track names to be entered for display on the units' easy-to-read front panel, allowing for instant recognition and simple documentation of discs.

Both decks of the DN-C550R feature digital and analog outputs featuring 24-bit D/A converters, allowing for a variety of recording and playback options. Dubbing can be done in either real-time or at 2X speed, allowing for fast and seamless duplication (HDCD dubbing compatible). Several different recording modes are also available to suit the users needs -- Scan Rec Dubbing Mode allows selection of specific tracks for recording, while Disc Dubbing Mode directly records all information, including HDCD data and user-input text, from one disc to the other. A Synchronized Recording Function can be used to begin recording as soon as signal is seen by the unit.

A wide variety of playback modes are also incorporated into the DN-C550R. A Repeat Mode lets the user select one or all tracks from Drive 1 and/or 2 for repetitious playback. The Relay Play Mode gives automatic, continuous play from Drive 1 to Drive 2. The Mix Program Play Mode supports programmed playback of one or both discs, and the Mix Random Play Mode plays random selections from Drive 1 and/or 2.

For unprecedented reliability and stability, the DN-C550R features a linear-type transformer in the power section for optimum power calibration during use. The unit comes housed in an attractive aluminum faced 2U housing with built in rack ears for easy installation.

The DN-C550R is available immediately for the suggested list price of $850.00.