Denon DNP-730AEx Wi-Fi and DLNA Player

Denon DNP-730AEx is a network audio player designed for digital music playback through a home audio system. It plays recordings from a computer, network-attached storage or USB flash drive. Built-in Wi-Fi, Ethernet and DLNA 1.5 provide a choice of home-network connections.

The player supports common MP3, WMA and AAC files, as well as ALAC and high-resolution AIFF, WAV and FLAC recordings. AIFF, WAV and FLAC playback supports resolutions up to 192 kHz/24-bit.

Music from your home network

Wireless connections use IEEE 802.11b, 802.11g and 802.11n. This is useful when no network cable runs to the audio system. Ethernet provides a more consistent wired connection and reduces reliance on wireless coverage.

DLNA 1.5 gives access to music stored on a computer or NAS. The player can reach a computer’s music library over either a wired or wireless home network, so files do not have to be copied to separate storage.

It plays 2.8 MHz and 5.6 MHz DSD files through DLNA. Gapless playback is available for DSD, WAV, FLAC, AIFF and ALAC recordings, making it particularly useful for concerts and albums whose tracks should flow without pauses.

Internet and wireless playback

Once connected to the home network, the player can access internet radio. Spotify Connect was also provided where the service was available in the relevant region and requires a subscription.

AirPlay was intended for music from compatible iPhone, iPod touch and iPad devices, as well as an iTunes library. Compatibility with current services, applications and operating-system versions may vary.

USB input and control

The front USB input plays music from a USB flash drive and was also designed for direct connection of compatible Apple iOS devices. Its front-panel position makes changing media easier.

Wireless setup options include WPS and Wi-Fi Sharing with a compatible iOS device. WMM is also supported. The three-line OLED display shows additional information about the selected source and current recording.

The player was controlled through the Denon Remote App. A Remote Out connection also enables control of a compatible Denon amplifier or CD player. Current compatibility between the app and a phone’s operating system may vary.

Digital signal processing

Digital signals are handled by a Burr-Brown PCM1795 digital-to-analogue converter. Its conversion circuit supports 32-bit, 192 kHz processing and includes a function for reducing digital timing errors, or jitter.

The Simple & Straight circuit architecture uses a shortened signal path and specialised components selected for the audio circuit. Automatic standby reduces the need to switch the unit off manually, while standby mode uses little power.

Placement and network selection

Place the player on a stable shelf with clear access to the front USB input. Keep the display visible from the normal listening position and allow space behind the unit for Ethernet and control connections.

Choose Ethernet if the wireless signal near the audio system is weak. When using Wi-Fi, position the player within reliable router coverage. Black and Premium Silver finishes were offered to complement differently coloured system components.

Technical specifications

Product type	Network audio player, music streamer
Wireless network	Built-in Wi-Fi; IEEE 802.11b, 802.11g and IEEE 802.11n
Wired network	Ethernet connection
Network standard	DLNA 1.5
Network sources	Computer, NAS and internet radio
Streaming features	AirPlay; Spotify Connect where the service is available and a subscription is held
Compressed formats	MP3, WMA, AAC
Lossless formats	ALAC, AIFF, WAV, FLAC
High-resolution playback	AIFF, WAV and FLAC up to 192 kHz/24-bit
DSD playback	2.8 MHz and 5.6 MHz through DLNA
Gapless playback	DSD, WAV, FLAC, AIFF and ALAC
Front connection	USB input for a USB flash drive and compatible Apple iOS devices
Digital-to-analogue converter	Burr-Brown PCM1795
Conversion circuit	32-bit/192 kHz processing
Signal feature	Digital-signal timing error (jitter) reduction
Network setup	WPS, Wi-Fi Sharing with a compatible iOS device, WMM
Display	Three-line OLED
Remote control	Denon Remote App; Remote Out for a compatible Denon amplifier or CD player
Power management	Automatic standby; low consumption in standby mode
Circuit architecture	Simple & Straight, shortened signal path
Finishes	Black and Premium Silver

FAQ

When should I choose Ethernet instead of Wi-Fi?

Choose Ethernet when there is a network socket near the system or the wireless signal is unstable. Wi-Fi is more convenient when you do not want to run a cable.

Can I play music without a computer?

Yes. Files can be played from a USB flash drive connected to the front input or from NAS storage. Internet radio requires a home-network connection.

Which recordings benefit from gapless playback?

It is useful for concerts, classical works and continuous albums. No additional pause is inserted between DSD, WAV, FLAC, AIFF or ALAC tracks.

What is the easiest way to configure Wi-Fi?

If the router supports WPS, you can use it to establish the connection. Wi-Fi Sharing was also provided for compatible iOS devices.

Will the current Spotify and Apple features work?

Current compatibility with Spotify Connect, AirPlay, direct iOS playback and the Denon Remote App has not been verified. Before buying, check compatibility with your service, device and software version. Spotify Connect requires an active subscription.

What is the front USB port for?

It is intended for music playback from a USB flash drive and direct playback from compatible Apple iOS devices. Media can be changed without moving the player.