The DAC's in this unit are really some of the most advanced on the market. You do not require an external DAC as these really bring out the sound on regular cd's. The sound difference is really notable as soon as you put one on that you are acquainted with; more detail, louder in a good way, and make the music more enjoyable. What I also like is that it does not do anything other then play cds/SACDs, no streaming built in. In regards to SACD's, if you have never listened to one, this unit really shines when you have one that is extraordinary and even those that are questionable. It is a big unit that comes with a remote that may or may not be useful. The finish is friendly to others in the household. I would suggest that you use hi-end interconnects (Audioquest is what I'm using) as I do think they make a difference. Overall, I think it is worth the price as it really does make the music sound crisper, more detailed, bigger soundstage (depending on speakers and amp/pre-amp but I think that compatibility would not be an issue), very easy to set up and use.

I was using the Denon DCD-1700NE for a past couple years and just moved up to the DCD-3000NE. The 1700 is nothing to sneeze at as it’s a very good SACD/CD player, but…the 3000NE takes it to another level (as it should). Built like a tank at 37lbs and dead quiet in operation as well as noise floor, extremely black space between tracks. SACD micro and macro details will leave you speechless, from solid lows through clean, smooth, detailed midrange to shimmering and airy highs the presentation is simply amazing. ESS Sabre ES9018K2M 32-bit/384kHz quad DAC brings every nuance of the music to your ears. With Denon’s 7th generation Ultra AL32 processing, my large collection of Redbook CD’s sound better than ever and may even rival some of my SACD’s! This is a truly great machine. With the right setup of preamp, amp and speakers, this Denon just shines and could be the last SACD/CD you’ll ever need. Expensive, yes. Worth the expense, absolutely!

Paired with a Marantz amplifier, absolutely amazing sound.