Pros:
Great sound quality. Makes bit-for-bit copies of CDs and great conversions of LPs.
Cons:
Requires CD-Audio disks and uses DCMS.
The Bottom Line:
Highly recommended, especially for those who want to convert LPs to CD.
Overall Rating:
Author's Review
Highlights
Records analog, digital or coax. High-speed or real-time cd duplication. Great sound quality with built-in 24-bit digital analog converter. Plenty of inputs and outputs. Relay mode for disk-to-disk playback.
The Denon CDR-W1500 interface
First I question the learning curve of the other reviewers. The interface was not "plodding". The interface has many features and I'm glad that it does. Denon could have chosen to dumb down the unit to appease people who are confused by buttons. Keep the manual handy for a little while and you will catch on quickly.
Create CD's from an analog source
The Denon CDR-W1500 creates really fantastic CDs from analog sources (LPs!), much better than my PC setup. This is the unit's greatest strength.
Copy CD's
Most people can make bit-for-bit copies of CDs with their PCs using "raw mode" in Nero or Easy CD Creator so the disk copying feature is not the strongest IMHO. But people without a computer can use it and you don't have to boot anything here to use the stand-alone feature.
The unit makes exact copies, not "near CD quality" as some might suggest. A digital bit-for-bit copy is an exact copy. There's nothing to debate here. You won't be disappointed.
CD Text
The unit also displays CD text, and you can also add the text when making a CD.
Sound Quality
I find the internal 24-Bit DAC pleasing. The sound quality is warm and accurate. Most CD players and recorders in the consumer market are weak in this area and the unit shines. I mainly use my own external DAC because my amp is a Technics (not audiophile quality IMO) so the external DAC makes up for it.
Conclusion
I have had the unit for 1.5 years and it has never let me down. I use it every day with great results and I highly recommend it.