Catalyzes the conversion of acetaldehyde to acetyl-CoA, using NAD(+) and coenzyme A. Can also act on propanal and butanal to form propanoyl-CoA and butanoyl-CoA, respectively. Is the final enzyme in the meta-cleavage pathway for the degradation of aromatic compounds such as phenols, cresols and catechols. NADP(+) can replace NAD(+) but the rate of reaction is much slower. acetaldehyde + CoA + NAD(+) = acetyl-CoA + H(+) + NADH Is not activated by Mn(2+), Mg(2+), Ca(2+), Zn(2+) or Co(2+). Activity increases gradually over the pH range 6.5-8.5. Aromatic compound metabolism; phenol degradation. Heterotetramer composed of two DmpG (aldolase) and two DmpF (dehydrogenase) subunits, which allows a direct channeling of acetaldehyde between the two active sites. Belongs to the acetaldehyde dehydrogenase family.