Comparing Denon RCDN10 vs. RCDN11 vs. RCDN12: Understanding the Differences
When it comes to compact audio systems, Denon offers a range of versatile models to cater to various preferences and needs. The RCDN10, RCDN11, and RCDN12 stand out among Denon's line-up, each packed with unique features and functionalities tailored for different audiophiles. Understanding their differences can help you choose the right fit for your audio setup.
Design and Connectivity
RCDN10:
- Features CD compatibility, FM (RDS) / AM tuner, and network audio streaming.
- Offers Spotify Connect, Tidal, Deezer, and other streaming services.
- No support for Amazon Prime Music or Pandora.
- Equipped with AirPlay 2 and a simple yet functional design.
RCDN11:
- Similar to the RCDN10 but adds DAB/DAB+/FM (RDS)/AM.
- Supports Amazon Prime Music and Pandora.
- Incorporates voice control with Google Assistant and Apple Siri.
RCDN12:
- Superb sound from an elegant, compact package. With a DAB/FM radio tuner, CD player, and HEOS® Built-in streaming, plus HDMI ARC for TV sound, phono input, and subwoofer pre-out, it’s the perfect audio hub for a modern living space.
- Features a Phono MM input and additional outputs including Main Pre-Out and Speaker Terminal.
- Incorporates Roon Tested certification for enhanced audio experience.
- Supports Amazon Prime Music and Pandora.
- Incorporates voice control with Google Assistant and Apple Siri.
Audio Performance
RCDN10, RCDN11, and RCDN12:
- All models provide a high-quality power output of 2 x 65 W.
- Support a range of lossy and lossless audio formats including FLAC HD, ALAC, WAV, AIFF, and DSD for rich sound reproduction.
- Gapless playback is supported across all models for a seamless listening experience.
Additional Features
RCDN12:
- Differentiates itself with a wider frequency response in the analog section (10 Hz–40 kHz) compared to the other models.
- Incorporates a dedicated section for DAB reception, enhancing digital radio capabilities.
- Features Bluetooth headphone transmission, a unique addition for personal audio enjoyment.
| Features | RCDN10 | RCDN11 | RCDN12 |
| High-Quality Power Output | 2 x 65 W | 2 x 65 W | 2 x 65 W |
| CD Compatibility | CD / CD-R/RW / WMA / MP3 | CD / CD-R/RW / WMA / MP3 | CD / CD-R/RW / WMA / MP3 |
| Tuner | FM (RDS) / AM | DAB/DAB+/FM (RDS)/AM | DAB/DAB+/FM (RDS) |
| Phono MM Input | No | No | Yes |
| Network Audio Streaming | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Supported Streaming Services | Spotify Connect / Tidal / Deezer / others | Spotify Connect / Tidal / Deezer / others | Spotify Connect / Tidal / Deezer / others |
| Amazon Prime Music / Pandora | N/A | Yes / No | Yes / No |
| AirPlay 2 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Roon Tested | No | No | Yes |
| Internet Radio | TuneIn | TuneIn | TuneIn |
| HEOS Multi-Room and Streaming | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Control - Works with Amazon Alexa | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Auto Power On by Optical Input Signal | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| TV Remote Learning | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Quick Select Buttons | No | No | Yes |
| Bluetooth / aptX / NFC | Yes / No / No | Yes / No / No | Yes / No / No |
| Bluetooth Headphone Transmission | No | No | Yes |
| USB Audio: Front/Rear | Yes / No | Yes / No | Yes / No |
| USB-A: DSD/WAV/FLAC/AIFF/ALAC | 5.6 / 192 / 192 / No / 192 | 5.6 / 192 / 192 / No / 192 | 5.6 / 192 / 192 / No / 192 |
| Ethernet/Wi-Fi | Yes / Yes | Yes / Yes | Yes / Yes |
| WiFi Setup: WPS/Wi-Fi Sharing | Yes / Yes | Yes / Yes | Yes / Yes |
| Lossy Formats: MP3/WMA/AAC | Yes / Yes / Yes | Yes / Yes / Yes | Yes / Yes / Yes |
| Lossless Formats: FLAC HD/ALAC/WAV/AIFF/DSD | Yes / Yes / Yes / No / Yes | Yes / Yes / Yes / No / Yes | Yes / Yes / Yes / No / Yes |
| Gapless Playback | Yes (FLAC, WAV, DSD) | Yes (FLAC, WAV, DSD) | Yes (FLAC, WAV, DSD) |
| Tone Control: Bass/Treble/Balance | Yes / Yes / Yes | Yes / Yes / Yes | Yes / Yes / Yes |
| Low Noise OELD Display | 3 line | 3 line | 3 line |
| Clock | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Sleep Timer | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Programmable Timer: Once/Daily | Yes / Yes | Yes / Yes | Yes / Yes |
| Inputs/Outputs | |||
| AUDIO: Analog In/Out | 1 / 0 | 1 / No | 2 (AUX, PHONO MM) / No |
| AUDIO: Digital Optical In/Out | 2 / 0 | 2 / No | 1 / No |
| AUDIO: HDMI ARC Input | No | No | Yes |
| OTHER: Subwoofer Pre-Out | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| OTHER: Main Pre-Out | No | No | Yes |
| Speaker Terminal: Push Type/Screw | Yes / No | Yes / No | No / Yes |
| Headphone Out | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Specifications | |||
| AUDIO SECTION (ANALOG IN) | |||
| Power Output (4 ohms, 1 kHz, 0.7% THD) | 60 W | 60 W | 2 x 65W |
| Number of Channels | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Freq. Response (Analog In) | 20 Hz - 20 kHz | 20 Hz - 20 kHz | 10 Hz–40 kHz |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio (Audio) | 86dB | 86dB | 90dB |
| Input Sensitivity/Impedance (Analog In) | NA | NA | 200mV / 30 kohms |
| Total Harmonic Distortion (Audio) | 0.1 (1 kHz/5W/ 4 ohms) | 0.1 (1 kHz/5W/ 4 ohms) | 0.1 (1 kHz/5W/ 4 ohms) |
| AUDIO SECTION (PHONO (MM)) | |||
| Freq. Response (Phono) | N/A | N/A | 20Hz–20kHz (RIAA deviation) |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio (Phono) | N/A | N/A | 74dB |
| Input Sensitivity/Impedance (Phono) | N/A | N/A | 2.5mV / 47 kohms |
| DAB SECTION | |||
| Receiving Range (Band III) | N/A | N/A | Yes |
| Signal to Noise Ratio DAB (Mono/Stereo) | N/A | 85 dB | 85 dB |
| TUNER SECTION FM | |||
| Frequency Range FM | 87.5–108 MHz | 87.5–108 MHz | 87.5–108 MHz |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio (Mono/Stereo) FM | 74 / 70 dB | 74 / 70 dB | 70 / 70 dB |
| Total Harmonic Distortion (Mono/Stereo) FM | 0.3 / 0.4% | 0.3 / 0.4% | 0.4 / 0.4% |
| General | |||
| Available Colors: Black/White/Grey | Yes / Yes/Yes | Yes / Yes/Yes | Yes / Yes/No |
| Remote Control | RC1222 | RC1222 | RC1255 |
| Power Consumption (W) | 55 | 55 | 55 |
| Standby Consumption (W) | 0.4 | 0.4 | 0.4 |
| DAB Antenna Included | No | No | Yes |
| Maximum Dimensions (W x D x H) in mm | 280 x 305 x 108 | 280 x 305 x 108 | 280 x 305 x 108 |
| Weight (kg) | 3.4 | 3.4 | 3.4 |
Conclusion
Choosing between the Denon RCDN10, RCDN11, and RCDN12 largely depends on your specific audio needs. If you prefer a traditional setup with basic connectivity and streaming options, the RCDN10 might suffice. The RCDN11 steps up with added streaming compatibility, voice control, and varied tuner options. For those seeking a broader range of connectivity and advanced features like HDMI ARC input and Roon Tested certification, the RCDN12 emerges as an enticing choice.
Understanding these distinctions will help you select the ideal Denon system that perfectly complements your audio setup and preferences.