Denon AVR-3300 Dolby Digital Audio/Video Receiver Review

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(More customer reviews)Featuring the newest Analog Devices SHARC 32-bit DSP processor, the AVR-3300 provides Dolby Digital and DTS decoding with superb precision. The AVR-3300 is the most affordable A/V component to include the SHARC processor as the heart of the DDSC-D technology, and features premium 24-bit, 96 kHz DACs on all output channels. Prepared for the future, the AVR-3300 features 8 Channel external input, for connection to future multi-channel surround formats, along with 8 pre-amp outputs, providing a full upgrade path. A high quality, discrete power output section provides a total system power of 850 watts (1 kHz, 6 ohms).
In addition to providing five pairs of composite and "S" video inputs, the AVR-3300 is equipped with two sets of component video (Y, CB, CR) inputs (DVD and TV/DBS), and one set of component video outputs for connection to high resolution video displays. Dual Surround Speaker switching allows the use of two different types (and placements) of surround speakers - connect a pair of diffuse surround speakers for movie soundtracks, and a direct radiator type surround speaker for multi-channel music surround.

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Denon ASD-3W Wifi Network iPod Dock (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)For the 1st couple of days I was feeling so-so on this product. The user interface is slow and clunky. So it took some getting used to. I don't know how many times I entered the wep key and ssid for wireless access. But after some time I have successfully used all the features and I'm quite happy with it.
I have a new ipod classic and this is my 1st experience with video on ipods. On the tiny screen, videos look quite good and (at least I) can watch a reasonable amount of them that way. I was hoping for a better video experience when using the ASD-3W. The video quality is just ok on my HD panasonic tv. Something just slightly below ordinary non-HD tv broadcasts. And some are better than others depending on the quality of the equipment used to shoot the video as well as any conversion software. So if you were looking to rip your DVD library to your ipod and enjoy those movies like you did from a DVD player, you will be disappointed. But for TV series and video podcasts, it's not too bad.
The best thing though is along with all the music/video on the ipod, you have access to internet radio and also pics and music you have stored on your pc through win media player. This really makes the deal on this device. There is just tons of great FREE music and podcasts out there and this product allows you access to all that. The higher res channels/stations sound quite good too. It's also cool to view your digital pics stored on the PC while listening to your favorite internet radio station.
I wish the video quality was better, but I think the start-of-the-art isn't quite there yet, but reasonably acceptable for now. I'm sure in several years we will have 1080p coming out of the ipods and devices like this will be the main AV entertainment device. I'm saving up for the next generation or the one after that. But I'm happy and pleased with this new addition to my AV system.

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Denon DRA-395 Multi-Source/Multi-Zone AM/FM Stereo Receiver Review

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(More customer reviews)If I could "easily" return this unit, I would - unfortunately I bought it via the web. The bottom line is that the unit just sounds OK, that's it. Yes it has lots of features, but the sound is just slightly better than a boom box. I hooked the same speakers, CD player, and monster cable interconnects up to another amp and it was much, much better - night and day. If you're OK with something that looks decent and has plenty of features, then maybe you'll like this unit. If you care about the quality of the sound and want "high fidelity", look else where. Denon has become a provider of mass market, made in China stuff these days - no where near the quality they delivered 10+ years ago.

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Let the music play throughout your house with Denon's DRA-395 multiroom-capable AM/FM stereo receiver. The receiver is engineered to serve as the heart of a 2-channel music system while providing high-fidelity sound and composite-video switching for stereo video sources such as DVD players, digital video recorders, digital satellite systems, cable boxes, and VCRs. Delivering 80 watts per channel x 2 into 8 ohm speakers (from 20 Hz to 20 kHz with no more than .08 percent total harmonic distortion), the DRA-395 can drive virtually any modern loudspeakers with authority and clarity.
The receiver divides the circuits handling low- and high-level audio signals into separate blocks to minimize the signals' influences on each other. This chassis design, new to the DRA-395, is called Signal Level Divided Construction (SLDC). The resultant output signals are cleaner than before, possessing greater fidelity and clarity.
The DRA-395's multi-source function lets you enjoy 2 different programs in up to 3 different rooms simultaneously by feeding the receiver's dedicated zone 2 and zone 3 preamp outputs to powered speakers or to other stand-alone amplifiers and standard speakers. With such a setup you could watch and listen to the DVD player in the main room while other family members listen to the CD player in other parts of the house. Separate A and B speaker outputs (with binding-post terminals for both sets) provide additional speaker setup flexibility.
The supplied RC-894 remote control commands not only the receiver but can also operate the main functions of a Denon CD player and a cassette deck. You can connect external remote control equipment, such as Denon's RC-616 and RC-617, which would permit use of the RC-894 remote from a sub room (zone 2 or 3) so you could switch a sub room output on and off, select a sub-room source, adjust volume, and recall preset radio stations.
The receiver offers 6 stereo analog audio inputs, including a phono input for use with your turntable. (The phono input is compatible only with moving-magnet-type phono cartridges.) The back panel sports 2 tape outputs.
Other useful features include bas and treble tone controls, tone defeat, muting from the remote, a motor-driven rotary volume control, last-function memory, and switched AC outlets for powering other components.
What's in the Box Receiver, two remote controls, remote batteries (two AA, two AAA), FM indoor antenna, AM loop antenna, a user's manual, a warranty card, and a service-station list.

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Denon AVR-2309CI 7.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver Review

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(More customer reviews)I bought this receiver to replace an aging Sony STI-910 receiver when I upgraded the home theater system with a Sony PS3 that we use for blu ray movies and games. The first thing you'll appreciate is the automated speaker setup and synchronization system. It makes life pretty easy and eliminates the need to manually calibrate the sound output for your room.
I have a fairly big room and was surprised how accurate it got my speakers tuned. You'll need a good 2 hours to get the receiver setup, synchronized, and mapped to your inputs. One thing that some may find hard to do is the setup of each input. It requires you to map each audio, video, and source with each of the primary functions such as DVD, TV/CBL box, etc. But once you do the first one, it becomes much easier.
The remote control is a bit funky though. Denon decided to save space and created the remote with buttons on both sides. The botton side is primarily used to setup the receiver and select the various equalization modes. The front side is used to control each of the devices. This takes some getting used to and is a bit of a hassle for the price you're paying.
But remote issues aside, the sound is great. I cross shopped the Harmon Kardon 354 series, Pioneer Elite, and new Marantz around the same price range. If you have a PS3, you'd better check out the blogs first. The HK has a lot of issues with the PS3 and even after the latest firmware update, there are still some remaining issues. This kept me away from the HK even though that was my original choice.
The Marantz didn't have as many features as the Denon, even though it was just released. I think the sound of the HK and Marantz is slightly warmer than the Denon, but you'll only really notice this slight difference if you're listening to a lot of classical, jazz or vocal pieces.
For home theater, it really drew out a lot of nuanses that my Sony was simply not reproducing. Even my wife and kids noticed the difference with the first blu ray we popped in. The detail was much more pronounced and the auto speaker calibration really balanced out how my speakers were reproducing the volume and sound accuracy for the room.
For music, the receiver had quite a few equalization modes, but what impressed me was how much better the sound stage was in the direct bypass mode compared to my Sony. It was much clearer and had a deeper sound stage with better separation. It's not quite audiophile specs, but it's much better than many of the other low to mid end consumer components I've listened to.
The HDMI switching worked well with the PS3, Denon upscaling DVD player, and TV/CBL box I had hooked up to it. The Denon 2309ci did a good job of upscaling sources from my normal DVD and component inputs too.
I'd recommend this unit to others as the features, compatibility, sound and picture quality are very good for the price. I would have rated it a full 5 out of 5 if the remote was a more user friendly.
Hope this helped.

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A/V Surround Receiver featuring Dolby Tru HD, dts HD Master Audio and 1080p HD Video enhances your level of video and audio performances.

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Denon AVR-789 630-Watt 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver Review

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(More customer reviews)I've done tons of research on a receiver in this price range. I can tell you that this unit is the best for the money. I've research the yammy 663, onkyo 606, and the 789/1909. The 789 and the 1909 are the same unit just made for different retailers. The four digit receivers from denon are for local retailers and the 789 is manufactured for higher volume retailers like BB or CC. I tried two 606s before spending the extra $150 on this model. The first 606 i had suffered from the humm/buzz problem that's all over the avsforum. The second unit i had dropped the video signal after a couple minutes of switching sources or powering the unit on and off. So i went with the 789 and couldn't be happier. My new 7.1 sounds amazing and the Audessey features are the best. i wouldn't attempt to set up a 7.1 with out it. The remote kinda sucks, but i got a Harmony 890, so all remotes go into storage anyway. I have it hooked up to a ps3, 360, comcast cable box, denon dvd, vcr, and ipod. All the SD signals get pushed to 1080p. The upscaling is so much better than the 606 it's not even funny. i would recommend anyone looking for a hdmi receiver that upscales to get this model.

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Equipped with the latest video and audio processing functions, the AVR-789 brings high performance surround sound and extensive video flexibility at a truly affordable price. For the ultimate audio experience, the AVR-789 features Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio decoding to handle the explosive soundtracks found on many of today's advanced Blu-ray high definition discs, along with Dolby Digital Plus and DTS ES 6.1 surround decoding functions. The video section includes Faroudja's renowned DCDi processing and upconversion to provide near-HD picture quality from conventional sources such as cable, satellite and DVD, while at the same time providing a single video output connection to your HDTV. In addition, the video section features the latest specification HDMI v1.3a signal handling, with three inputs capable of handling Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio soundtracks as well as uncompressed LPCM multi-channel sources. Setup and operation are a snap, aided by Denon's enhanced icon-based on screen display that also features a screen saver. To eliminate jarring shifts in volume between TV shows and commercials, the AVR-789 features Audyssey Dynamic Volume automatic volume-leveling system, as well as Audyssey Dynamic EQ to ensure rich bass and smooth tonal balance, even at low volume levels. Audyssey MultEQ in-room acoustic optimization and enhanced multimedia connectivity are just a few of the many additional advanced features that the AVR-789 offers.

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Denon AVR4310CI 7.1-Channel Multi-Zone Home Theater Receiver with Networking Capability and 1080p HDMI Connectivity Review

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(More customer reviews)I got this only 2 weeks ago, so this is a preliminary report:
From my testing so far:
Pros:
1. Great sound; drastic (positive) improvement over previous Denon 1508 I had in this setup.
2. Video: The upconversion from any source to HDMI is good and works without a hassle. (The worst case testing of standard cable to 1080p doesn't look good and is more grainy than I would have liked; but standard DVD looks fantastic on my Panasonic 1080p plasma with this receiver).
3. Audussey setup: was quite easy (just took some 10 minutes) and once done, had done a good job of measuring distances and capacities of speakers I have (Martin Logan Aeons for the front, Vignette for the center, ML Grotto for the sub, but a low end polk audio for surrounds in my 5.1 setup), and correctly set the relative power etc for the speakers. I can see the difference in one of the side chairs in my listening setup.
4. On screen GUI: Great improvement over my previous Denon/Marantz etc. Again this works flawlessly, and the GUI, while it can be improved, is good enough for most people.
5. The remote: the primary remote, after you get used to it, is great. Now I could dispose of my Panasonic TV remote as well as my DVD player's remotes and just use one remote effortlessly. I also have a Harmony remote that I stopped using long time ago, and this remote is better than the harmony remote in my experience (one simple reason is that harmony remembers the state of the equipment and expects you to use only the remote always; so if you do manual change, for e.g, walk up to the TV and switch it on, harmony gets confused!). Again a great improvement over previous/lower end Denon models.
5. Network access/firmware upgrade: just having these features is a plus (BUT...I had lot of issues with this - that I am covering below)
6. Ipod direct connectivity using front USB input: great again. (I was able to connect both iphone first gen and a ipod video 5th gen as well as a ipod nano 3rd gen and use them correctly using the onscreen menu). There is an audio improvement mode that improves the compressed mp3 music ("Restorer" - has 4 modes - off or no processing, 64, 96bit and HQ - high quality?)
7. Several inputs - 6 HDMI inputs there is even a set of front inputs - hdmi, composite,USB inputs for convenience.
8. Doesn't get too hot! I tried pushing this - a higher volume on my sub-4 ohm Martin Logans and no sweat! Receiver does get hot but not too hot that you will burn your fingers! This is one big reason I bought this receiver - my experience with other brand rececivers was quite bad - at 75-90 watt/channel, these receivers trip my house fuses frequently; Denon (both my old 1508 at 75 watts and 4310 now at 130 watts) does admirably well in this regard and I have no complaints - only superlative praises for the efficiency and power handling of Denon.
Now for the CONS and the problems I encountered:
1. Poor, unfinished, mediocre web access - while it does allow you to change the source, do the setup of components, control multi zones, volume control etc using [...] (browser) access), it looks very primitive - not one that you expect in a 2000$ receiver.
2. NET/USB and other network Modes: Several bugs here - let me try a few,, but I am not finished finding them yet!
a. Doesn't recognize any NAS drives in the home network; only sees Windows media servers in the network! So to play music in a NAS drive, I have to first add it to a WMP library and then I can play that from Denon. This is more a feature request than a bug.
b. While navigating through list of songs/albums etc, there is no page up/page down keys and so going down one entry at a time and lack of search is a pain when you have thousands of songs.
c. There is a minor bug in playing media server/USB files: while the display goes to sleep after a minute or so, the album art stays in the screen in the same place - this will be bad for plasma TVs!
d. Ipod troubles: I have a first generation iphone and so when I connect that, there is a warning on iphone that says this device is not compatible and so I should put the phone in airplane mode. Say no to this screen and it continues to work normally! Not sure if it is apple's bug or denon's bug! But Denon is recognizing older ipods to current generation.
Quite a few problems I saw with NET/USB/Media server/internet radio have been solved with the firmware updates over the last month..
I want to give 4.5 stars, only because most of the problems I saw can be fixed by software updates (I hope Denon will act fast), and the rest, the most important thing for me - audio quality, video quality, power handling - are worth 6 stars.
I haven't got to testing Audussey DSX - the height and wider channel features presented by this receiver. I will update this review as I test more features...
Update: July 2010: After almost a year and several firmware upgrades later, I still haven't tested the Audissey DSX feature. But the problems I noted with media server/Net are still there - in particular, the media server is still sooooo slow, I can't really use it. In fact, my Denon is wired to the wireless router. Sharing music between my systems using wireless on Windows 7 pcs/notebooks is reasonably (much) faster but Denon is quite slow - literally takes several seconds for each key press. Internet radio, napster, usb drives etc are quite useable (no issues there).
The http screens for this receiver are still primitive - no changes there. You will still need the on-screen menus if you want to make changes. The best you can do with http access is to change the input, change volume/mute (more like a simple remote).
Ultimately, the sound quality is great and audio performance of this receiver rocks - the sole reason for my buying this receiver. In spite of all the other small issues I mentioned, the sound quality and power performance (runs quite cool for the power it handles) is one of the best I have seen at this price range.
UPDATE: 11/26/2010: With the latest firmware updates, the network access and Ipod/USB access etc seem to have improved several fold. Now access to media on my NAS box in the home network is quite snappy, and I can play a song in a couple of seconds after selecting the song.


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The new AVR-4310CI is a technological tour de force, designed for consumers wanting to network their AV system. Ethernet connectivity opens up your AV system to host of exciting capabilities like audio and jpeg photo streaming and Internet radio. Additionally, subscription music services like Rhapsody and Napster are supported. The AVR4310CI packs a punch with 7-channels of onboard amplification producing 910-watts of total power (130 per channel). The amplifiers can be assigned for 7.1 channel surround sound, or a 5.1 channel system in the 'main" room and power a pair of speakers in a second 'zone". This only scratches the surface of the AVR4310CI Multi-zone (3) / multi-source (3) capability. Enhanced power amp assign features, second and third zone programming feature allow the AVR4310 to be the hub of a sophisticated whole house system. For video connectivity, the AVR4310CI is equipped with 1080p compatible HDMI 1.3a Repeating technology, delivering both audio and video to your HDTV with single HDMI cable. This HDMI connectivity supports the latest generation surround sound formats available on Blu-ray disc, including Dolby TrueHD and DD+, dts-HD and dts-HR. Also included is Dolby Laboratories new Pro Logic IIz Matrix decoding featuring front height effects channels that expands front soundstage. The AVR4310CI boasts a number of Audyssey technologies, and is the first to offer Audyssey DXS processing. DSX (Dynamic Surround Expansion adds front height and/or width channels to expand the soundstage. Advanced Audyssey MultEQ XT analyzes a speaker systems interaction with room acoustics at 8 positions, and then delivers custom tailored correction processing to optimize clarity and tonal balance throughout the listening space. Audyssey Dynamic Volume is an automatic volume-leveling system that tracks audio dynamics to eliminate the irritating volume swings between TV shows and commercials.

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Denon AVR-2809CI 7.1-Channel Multizone Home Theater Receiver Review

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(More customer reviews)Hi,
I had this receiver (Denon AVR-2809CI) for 2 weeks before I returned it. The sound is great and the remote is awesome. The video passed through perfectly fine as well. There was a problem though. It took a week researching on what could be the problem and it looks like others are having this problem as well.
If you have a Sony flat panel LCD that starts with the letters KDL (ex. KDL-52XBR4, KDL-Z4100, KDL-W3000) then you will have picture and sound dropouts. They will last for 3 seconds then picture and sound will restore. It'll happen anywhere between one to five times an hour and can get quite annoying.
I've spoke to Denon and there is no cure (firmware) or settings that can fix this problem with Sony LCD TVs. Those with rear projection Sony LCDs should be fine.

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A/V Surround Receiver featuring Dolby Tru HD, dts HD Master Audio and 1080p HD Video enhances your level of video and audio performances.

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Mirage Nanosat 5.1 Compact Home Theater Speaker System 5 satellite speakers and a powered subwoofer with black brushed aluminum finish and a Denon AVR-1611 7.1 Channel A/V Home Theater Multi-Source / Multi-Zone Receiver with HDMI 1.4a supporting 1080p an Review

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(More customer reviews)Best Buy's Magnolia room recommended this combination for me, but I found it bundled for much less money on Amazon (Electronics).
The Denon receiver comes with a microphone that you attach to a tripod and that takes calculations at six places around where you will sit. It then decides what is the best for the five speakers.The process is easy and straightforward. I went through it twice and was happy with both results. The subwoofer is discreet, not too booming, and the small multidirectional Mirage speakers are attractive and come with wall mounts that I attached to the front of bookcases in the rear and around the new Samsung LED TV in the front. The Denon AV1611 model comes with the capacity to attach 7 speakers, therefore two in another room.
The four stars are because all this is in a small room, next to an open two story staircase, so it's hard to really test the capacities of the system. But for what I have, it sounds pretty good. Everything went together easily.
The Denon also comes with a tuner and Am/FM antennas.

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Denon AVR-788 Dolby Digital Surround Receiver Review

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(More customer reviews)I'd give it 4.5 stars if I could.
I've had this for about four weeks and only now I am beginning to finish the setup. It sounds very good, for both music and movies. Here are the pluses:
1. It has a audio calibration system that equalises the response to match your listening environment. This one has a 6-position Audyssey MultEQ system (the capability to measure more than one position is important) It seems to do a fine job, although it said my center speaker was inverted in phase when it was in fact correctly wired. It computed the speaker distances precisely and The EQ result looks (they show you graphs) and sounds correct. The setup takes a good 20-25 minutes and you are supposed to do it each time you move furniture. Thats a bit of a drag.
2. It has audio over HDMI support (from the PS3 for e.g.) and supports deep color. It cannot do DTS-HD or Dolby TrueHD, but it can take a 7.1 uncompressed PCM input, which is all you need (i think) because the blu-ray spec requires PCM while DTS-HD and TrueHD are optional. I am not using any of these features yet (so this point is from theory not experiment), but its good to have these for future blu-ray support.
3. It does not get very hot at my listening levels (-12 to -24 db). So I was able to cram it into my existing cabinet (albeit with a little carpentry, since it is over a foot deep)
4. Standby power consumption is under 2 watts. While playing music it consumes about 60 watts at my listening levels.
Like I said, it works well for me and I plan to keep it. But its not perfect:
The Downsides:
1. The remote is terrible, and the user interface is not so good. I liked the remote in pictures - it has big buttons and less clutter than other receiver remotes, but this one is unique. It has buttons on the back (with a cover), That would be alright if you only put those buttons there that you dont need often. However I find that some everyday buttons are in the back - for e.g. the button that changes Sound Modes (DTS/Dolby/ROck/Jazz etc. is in the back) Not well thought out. The manual way to save each FM station requires you to press a button on the back and then two buttons on the front to save one preset. Go figure!
I suspect that all high/mid end receivers have so many features that it will be tough to find one with a good interface, unless you get a all-in-one system like a Bose Lifestyle or 3-2-1.
2. The manual is not fun reading - and some things are not explained. I had to call Denon once to figure out something. (it took two calls and a 5 minute hold the second time, and then I got to a somewhat bored sounding technician. But he seemed knowledgeable.)
3. When I connected the subwoofer line level output to my Bose 701s LFE input (powered subwoofer) I got an audible hum (probably at 60 Hz). I had to buy a ground loop isolator from Radioshack ($12) that removed it.
Overall, a good receiver. In an ideal world, you would try out five brands and keep the one that sounds best to you. The only store where I could compare two brands in A/B fashion was Tweeter, where they had Pioneers and Yamahas set up. I liked the Pioneer Elites better but I think it was because the Yamaha's were setup sub-optimally. Circuit City let me hear a Denon but without the EQ. All in all, I feel that the speakers make a bigger difference than the receiver. I hope some of this helps you in case you are agonizing over the choices. If you'd like to read more about my home theater components, there is a blog entry here: http://spyglasshill.wordpress.com/2008/08/20/the-lexus-of-home-theatre/

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The Denon AVR-788 delivers power and performance and is ready to take on HD video sources.Its video circuitry now has HDMI 1.3a audio/video capabilities supporting deep color video signals and digital surround audio signals.This makes ease of connection and operation a snap for the beginner or expert user.Attention to audio detail and accuracy has been improved with the addition of Audyssey MultEQ processing, assuring audio room balance even with difficult acoustical conditions.Dolby Digital and DTS Digital signals are masterfully decoded and reproduced yielding stunning surround sound presence like never before.Calibration has been simplified using the plug and go concept with the supplied microphone.Using the optional ASD-3W/3N iPod docks allows for network capability, allowing more sources to be played back from devices on your home network.Additionally the AVR-788 can accommodate two-source two-zone control for enhanced audio installations.

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Denon AVR-988 7.1-Channel Multizone Home Theater Receiver Review

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(More customer reviews)This was a strong performing receiver at $1200. Now it is an amazing value. Why?
Pros
1) Clean high current power- in the end, the most important thing. Strip away all the bells and whistles and "features" and listen to it. Many receivers brag about 100 watts of power and yet sound thin. Denon is known for amplifier quality. This Denon receiver was designed for the $1200 instead of the $500 price point and has the parts quality that reflects it (good power supply, shielding, and separate circuit boards for Digital, Analog Video and Analog Audio) The receiver has 110 watts for 7 channels and will drive your speakers for better bass and clarity.
2) 1080P Upconversion- there is two types of upconversion. In other words, what are you doing to a VCR or other analog video signal to make it HDMI? Some receivers "Transcode", which means they convert from regular composite video, S-Video, or Component video to HDMI. This is done for convenience. You get all of your sources on one HDMI cable going into the TV, but don't expect any improvement in video quality. The other way of conversion is called upconversion or "scaling." Now you are taking a 480i signal and converting it to 1080i or 1080P. The quality of that process varies widely. Some upconverters make the image look horrible. Some only upconvert to 1080i. Denon uses a Faroudja FLi2310 video processor that provides video scaling up to 1080p resolution. On other words, it makes your old stuff look good. Not as good as true HD source material, but it is a significant improvement.
3) Dolby True HD and DTS-HD Master Audio- decodes them both.
4) Multi-Zone/Multi-Source: Use 5 of the channels for home theater and the 2 other channels to power a second zone (like speakers for an outdoor deck) with a different source. So you can watch movies in the family room and still have a CD playing outside. The second zone can be fed from the coax digital or optical digital input (rather than only analog), something that many other multi-source receivers can't do.
5) Auto Setup: Many people buy a receiver and never bother to set it up to compensate for their room and speakers. I prefer to set up a receiver manually for inputs, speaker size and distance and it can make a huge difference in sound quality. Denon makes setup easy. Once you plug in the microphone, the receiver automatically detects and enters in auto-setup mode. The Audyssey Multi EQ XT can be setup for 8 favorite listening setups...you can calibrate it for a couple watching movies vs a group watching a football game. There is a large difference among auto EQs, and Audyssey does a good job.
6) Auto Lipsync- Have you noticed the image not match up with the sound? Rather than put up with that movie experience, the Denon receiver will allow you to correct for the delays between the video and audio processing.
7) Shh...don't tell anyone, but this receiver is very, very close in performance to Denon's AVR 2808. Just less expensive!
8) Yes, it even still has a phono input.
9) Music restorer- Playing an iPod? Use this to make compressed audio sources sound less worse.
Drawback
Although it will convert other inputs to HDMI, it only has two HDMI inputs. For those who want more HDMI inputs, add a HDMI switcher box. One of the best reviewed ones is the Oppo. It works with Tivo, Comcast cable boxes, and with Denon receivers.
OPPO HM-31 Certified HDMI 1.3 and 1080p Switch

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A/V Multi Source/Zone Receiver

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Denon AVR-2808CI 7.1-Channel Multizone Home Theater Receiver Review

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(More customer reviews)I've owned a few receivers in the past (mostly Sony ES models), but none of them compare to this one. Denon specializes in audio, and it shows! Don't get me wrong, I love and own alot of Sony's products (two TVs, PS3, Vaio computer, DVD player, etc.), but after picking up this Denon and pairing it with a Polk speaker/sub setup, I've never been happier, and the upgrade from the Sony ES it replaced is substantial in many ways.
Denon AVR-2808ci Pros:
-Sound quality is absolutely incredible! Even compressed music from iPod is great ("Restorer" feature really helps!). Highs, mids and lows are all accurately reproduced, and there are tons of custom EQ options!
-Audyssey Auto-Calibration is accurate and thorough.
-Includes decoding of all current and future sound-fields (DTS-HD Master Audio and Dolby TrueHD, as well as Uncompressed PCM and everything else you can imagine, all via HDMI version 1.3a)!
-Display is large and includes alot of necessary info-this thing tells you what it's doing.
-Solid build quality and nice looking!
-Connectivity options (HDMI, toslink, digital coax, component video, s-video, etc.)
-Video upconversion via HDMI using built-in Faroudja DCDi processor, or just passthrough and use as a convenient HDMI switcher (assignable inputs).
-Excellent sound processors, both for movies and music, complement a solid, beefy amplifier.
-Customizable as all heck: 4-stage dimmer, "Quick Select" feature for three sources, learning lcd remote, volume level options, mute level options, default settings per-source, massive amount of EQ/channel level/crossover settings, and more!
-Main remote works great, learns and controls just about all of your gear.
This receiver is truly great for anybody who is serious about their Home Audio/Home Theater. The only drawbacks are that it is very complex, which is fine except that Denon doesn't make it any simpler to understand in the manual. It definitely takes some time to set this thing up and learn its interface. The Sony's I've owned in the past were far more user-friendly from the initial set-up/calibration onward. However, they never delivered results that were even close to this unit, and once you learn it, it does make sense and is relatively user-friendly after setup.
Cons:
-Complex manual and interface takes time to learn.
-On Screen Menu lags a little and blacks out picture rather than a nice overlay. Also, it's not the better looking, more user friendly GUI that more expensive models have (as well as all Sony's).
-Smaller secondary remote only works for other Zones (not a big deal really, but still...)
-Main remote takes forever to program/set up for universal usage. complicated.
-Only two HDMI inputs (could've used at least one more at this price range).
-No HD radio or Sirius support (does have XM).
Overall, minor gripes aside (nothing's ever perfect), I'm incredibly pleased and excited to own this unit and have it as the central hub to my Home Theater. I have Blu-ray now (PS3) and the advantages and options both now and in the future are vast. I'm confident that the Denon AVR-2808ci will allow me to take full advantage of that and other things for years to come. Mostly, though, it just cranks out amazingly good audio from any source, and that is ultimately what receivers are for. Highly recommended!

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Denon AVR-1508 Dolby Digital EX Decoding A/V Receiver Review

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(More customer reviews)I was replacing a Marantz SR7500 with this receiver!
Audio quality is good. It seems to be driving a old Martin logan speakers (which are usually picky - needs good high power current amplifiers at 6 or 4 ohms to drive them). Denon 1508 is still not up to it and falls a little short. But I am not hearing any other extra noises/sounds/hisses from the amplifier.
Cons:
1. remote is still too complex to use; still don't know how to setup other components to work correctly with this remote ( I had programmed Marantz and before that even a harmon-kardon remotes correctly!)
2. Didn't give an onscreen for configuring the receiver, though I have the TV attached using component cables.
3. video: no upgrading to even 720p at this price; just a passthrough
Update after 6 months of use:Finding more problems as I try to use different features! Tried connecting HDMI input of DVD player to the receiver; looks like this receiver can only connect HDMI to HDMI (won't work unless you connect your TV to HDMI)
Update: Another thing I found was the volume is low with Martin logans compared to if I use a normal 6 or 8 ohms speakers - this does mean that it is straining to supply high currents.

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Denon AVR-791 7.1 Channel A/V Home Theater Multi-Source / Multi-Zone Receiver with HDMI 1.4a supporting 1080p and 3D (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)There are three $500 receivers to consider, if you're buying one in 2010 - Onkyo TX-SR608, Pioneer VSX-1020-K and this one. All three feature the latest HDMI 1.4, which is necessary for 3D signals. Here's how they compare:
-The Onkyo is the most powerful in terms of real world performance, followed by the Denon and finally the Pioneer. All three perform at par for normal listening volumes, but the Onkyo can handle very high volumes the best, while the Pioneer runs out of breath
-The Denon has Audyssey Multi-Eq, which automatically calibrates the receiver for use in your room (a mic is provided). The Onkyo has a similar but less versatile Audyssey 2EQ. Pioneer has its own system called MCACC which also works well, but Audyssey may be slightly better.
-All three can upconvert analog sources via HDMI - hence you'll only need one HDMI cable to connect to the TV. The 1.4 spec supports an audio return channel, so the TV's sound can be output to the receiver without extra cables. The Pioneer and Denon use the excellent Anchor Bay chipset, while the Onkyo uses the slightly inferior Faroudja DCDi chipset for video processing.
-The Pioneer and the Denon have a front USB input where you can connect your iPod directly. You can browse playlists etc using the receiver's remote via the onscreen display. Since this is a digital connection, the sound quality is excellent - while the iPod can be connected to the Onkyo via an analog cable, it does not sound as good and cannot be navigated using the remote.
-The Denon offers an equal variety of inputs as the other two, but has fewer of them - eg, one optical input vs 2 for Pioneer and Onkyo
- The Pioneer's iPhone app is just a gimmick and of limited utility - I would prefer using the main remote.
Overall, I decided to purchase the Denon since it has Audyssey MultiEQ and adequate power (unlike the Pioneer) as well as excellent video processing and iPod connectivity (unlike the Onkyo). I have been using it for about a week and am very pleased with the level of performance offered.
Update on December 3, 2010: The receiver continues to perform well and I have no new complaints. However, I have noticed that both Pioneer VSX-1120-K and Onkyo TX-NR708 are available for ~$500, while discounts on this and other Denon receivers are marginal (here on Amazon). Hence, both those higher spec'd receivers now represent better value than the AVR-791/1911, if you're looking to spend ~$500 on a receiver. Also, the Onkyo TX-SR608 and Pioneer VSX-1020-K are now available for ~$350 and hence have become more compelling alternatives to this receiver.

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Packed with great features that assures a superb 7.1-channel surround sound experience, the Denon AVR-791 supports Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio decoding and it includes the latest HDMI 1.4a technology, which provides for 3D pass-through capabilities to your HDTV (broadcast and Blu-ray). It also features Dolby Pro Logic IIz, a technology that adds a vertical dimension at the front for a more exciting surround sound experience. Additionally, the AVR-791 features Denon's Audyssey MultEQ and AutoSetup capabilities, and it includes a tower type microphone for more accurate measuring.

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Denon AVR-1908 A/V Dolby Digital Surround Receiver w/ HDMI Switching Review

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(More customer reviews)After doing some research, I decided on the Denon 1908 because it had most of the state-of-the-art features of higher priced receivers, and I wanted to stay in the ball park of $1000 for both receiver and speakers. For the speakers I bought Harman Kardon HKTS-18 5.1 Channel Speaker System (which are amazing for their price!).
Setting up the receiver does take some effort. I fell into a few traps, and had a friend who is knowledgeable in home theaters come over and help me. Here are some things to watch out for:
(*) While it does have an HDMI out, it does not up-convert other inputs to HDMI. Simply put, the only signals which can be output through the HDMI out are those which are INPUT through HDMI connections on the receiver. It will not, for instance, take a component signal and output through HDMI. Thus, you must hook up all of the TYPES of connections from receiver to TV that you have INPUT types for. If you have HDMI inputs, you need to hook up the HDMI output to the HDTV. In addition, if you have component inputs, you must hook up the component output from receiver to HDTV. BOTH, of course, can be hooked up at the same time. Note that this also requires changing the TV input separately if going form component to HDMI inputs (a small hassle, and those with intelligent remotes can set this up to be transparent to them).
(*) The set-up screen will NOT output over the HDMI line! So, even if you are going to purely use HDMI connections throughout your system, you still need to hook up the component or S-Video out to HDTV to do set-up.
(*) Auto and Manual Setup must BOTH be done to get best results. The auto-setup is used to have the receiver determine best output levels for all speakers via a 6-point process of setting up a microphone (supplied!) at various location. BE sure to have a tripod during this operation (the microphone has a tripod connector on the bottom). The Manual Setup is used for other stuff. For example, one must set the speaker 'size' here (small or large, the difference being large speakers do BOTH bass and treble, small speakers dedicated to treble, as in most 5.1 speaker packages). But, most important, it is in the Manual setup you must TURN ON any self-powered bass speaker. This is also where the system can be setup to have all bass output dedicated to the bass speaker (leaving the other speakers to do what THEY do best!). Moral is, do BOTH the auto and manual setups.
(*) There are two remotes supplied. The MAIN remote has a 'hidden' feature. That is, if you turn it over, there is a door you can open up to another set of remote buttons, and these are the ones used for setup. At first one can think one was sent the wrong remote when looking at illustrations in the setup manual, but it turns out these are just the buttons 'hidden' on the BACK of the remote.
All in all, once you get it setup, this receiver is awesome! If I had a complaint it would be that the main remote could have more input selection buttons on the front (it has six, but one can hook up many more than six external components). Also, the names on these buttons do not reflect some of my components (e.g., I have a PS-3 hooked up via HDMI, but there is no 'game' input button on the remote). But one can assign any input to any button, so this is a VERY minor complaint.
The sound is great, and I'm VERY pleased with this receiver! :)


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Denon AVR2310CI 7.1-Channel Multi-Zone Home Theater Receiver with 1080p HDMI Connectivity Review

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(More customer reviews)I looked at all the brands and settled on Denon because they offer a very complete set of features for the money. This model is basically identical to the Denon AVR-890 model sold in big box stores except it has some extra features that are useful for custom installations (if you have your HT installer do it for you) and has two remotes instead of one on the 890
What I liked about this model over many of the competitors:
- Audyssey MultEQ is an advanced auto setup system which adjusts all the settings for your speakers. You plug in the included microphone, it outputs test tones and calculates the optimum settings for you. It takes measurements over 6 positions to ensure that the calibration settings work well over the whole listening area. Audyssey (in my opinion) is a more sophisticated system than what you would find in the competitors like Pioneer and Yamaha. Denon implements the complete set of Audyssey MultEQ features, shows you the resulting settings, and permits you to tweak the settings afterwards even.
- Audyssey Dynamic EQ - This is a GREAT feature. It's not unlike the Dolby Volume feature offered on other brands. What it does is it makes the sound more natural when you have the volume control lower than the reference standard (the volume the studio used for their reference). When you listen at low volumes, the human ear becomes less sensitive to certain tonal ranges, so this circuit helps restore the tonal balance of the sound. It also balances the level of the channels based on your volume level to make sure you can hear the rear channels better at lower volumes. I think this feature works GREAT and it's something anybody can notice. I think this is a must-have feature. Again Denon is to be commended for offering this feature on all their receivers in 2009
- Dynamic Volume is a useful feature to keep the sound level from blasting you when commercials come on. It's nice for watching TV.
- Denon has better control over video and audio settings. You can adjust the crossover frequency individually for each set of speakers. So if you have large speakers in the front and small satellites in the back, you can customize the bass management individually for each pair of speakers, taking advantage of each speakers' full bandwidth. For some reason many other receivers, Pioneer, Marantz, Yamaha often don't have this per-speaker adjustment. If you use Audyssey to set up your system, the Denon will use this capability to optimize your speakers' bass capabilities.
Also, Denon remembers the VIDEO settings for each input so you can have custom brightness, contrast, color for each input.
- Denon 890/2310 uses the Anchor Bay ABT2010 video processor which is a top grade processor. It does a superb job of scaling and deinterlacing video (Anchor Bay's video processor is well reviewed) probably as good or better than most TVs. It works for both analog sources AND HDMI, converting all your video to the maximum resolution of your TV up to 1080P or any other resolution that is optimal for your set. You do have the option to turn it off and passthrough the signals if you don't see a benefit. For most people, unless you have a top of the line TV, this processor can benefit all your sources
- Many receivers take a long time to resync the HDMI signal when you change inputs. On my previous Onkyo, the screen would blank out for 7-12 seconds when I switched from Cable to DVD. The Denon does it as quick as any I've seen, only 2-3 seconds
- Denon has Graphical User Interface over analog and HDMI connections. So you can adjust the settings while a video signal is being played and you will see the menus overlaid on top (especially useful when you are adjusting video settings). Many other receivers only do GUI overlay for analog connections, but not HDMI. With the Denon 890, you can see Volume Level indicator overlaid over the picture while you are playing back HDMI sources.
- It runs very cool. Many receivers run very hot but this one is good if your ventilation is more limited in your AV cabinet.
- It offers Dolby PLIIz, which allows you to run 7.1 speakers and give you height channels (five speakers in the front). I don't use this feature but it's an improvement over a normal 7.1 setup.
The BAD:
- This model does not have Preamp outputs so you can't add an external amp later if you need more power.
- The manual is hard to understand. Fortunately, there are some great FAQ web pages put up by one guy (search for Denon FAQ)which takes all the mystery out of the settings and adjustments
So, the Denon 890 is a superb product that is leading the pack in this price range. They didn't cripple the product in any way except the lack of preamp outputs.
As far as sound quality, it's debatable whether brand X is better than brand Y, but I can say Denon doesn't make poor performing products in general. Their amps are solid performers that are average to above average in meeting their rated power specifications. Even thought this unit isn't the heaviest chassis, it still packs a punch for its price range.

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The new AVR-2310CI was designed for consumers wanting exceptional audio and video performance. Its 7-channel amplifier produces 735-watts of total power (105 per channel), delivering detail and dynamics to music and movie soundtracks. The amplifiers can be configured for 7.1 channel surround sound, or a 5.1 channel system in the 'main" room and power a pair of speakers in a second 'zone". It's equipped with 1080p compatible HDMI 1.3a Repeating technology, delivering both audio and video to your HDTV with single HDMI cable. This HDMI connectivity supports the latest generation surround sound formats available on Blu-ray disc, including Dolby TrueHD and DD+, dts-HD and dts-HR. Also included is Dolby Laboratories new Pro Logic IIz Matrix decoding featuring front height effects channels that expands front soundstage. The AVR2310CI boasts a number of Audyssey technologies. Advanced Audyssey MultEQ analyzes a speaker systems interaction with room acoustics, and then delivers custom tailored correction processing to optimize clarity and tonal balance throughout the listening space. Audyssey Dynamic Volume is an automatic volume-leveling system that tracks audio dynamics to eliminate the irritating volume swings between TV shows and commercials. Audyssey Dynamic EQ is also on board to ensure rich bass and smooth tonal balance at low volume listening levels. In addition to enhanced HDMI 1.3a repeating (5 in, 1 out), the AVR2310CI features 1080p i/p conversion, analog to HDMI upscaling and HDMI to HDMI scaling. Video conversion is accomplished using a premium Anchor Bay Technologies 2010 chip set featuring 10-bit multi-cadence processing. This chip set also provides video noise reduction, picture enhancement, and adjustment capabilities not available on lower priced models. The AVR2310CI also features component video switching (2 in, 1 out), seven analog inputs, and multi-zone (2) / multi-source (2) capability.

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Denon AVR-5803 - AV receiver - 7.1 channel - black Review

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(More customer reviews)Possibly the best A/V Receiver on the market (although recently succeeded by the AVR 5805, which seems to have more amp channels than a reasonable person could use). One problem, however, is Denon Link compatability (a proprietary digital connection that only works with other high grade Denon equipment). The Denon Link is now available in three different forms, series 1, 2 and 3. If you have an AVR 5803 with the series 1 Denon Link and have a Denon DVD player that also has such a link, you want to make sure that they are of the same series or they may not be compatable. Denon offers free upgrades of these links, but that entails your retuning your component to them and waiting several weeks to get it back. This is sort of inconvenient if you have to send your receiver away for a month or so, since your A/V system needs a receiver (or pre-amp and amplifiers) to work. If you have a spare receiver sitting around that is OK, otherwise it is a pain.

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Denon AVR-888 7.1-Channel/5.1+2-Channel Independent Zone Home Theater Receiver with HDMI I/O and Serial I/R Control (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)I bought the Denon AVR-888 when I realized that the Sony STR-DG820 wouldn't meet my home theater needs (the Sony does not support HDMI to DVI conversion). Compared with the Sony I have to agree with other reviewers: the operations guide and remote are unnecessarilly complex. Compared to the Sony remote the Denon is just a laugh and something they should be embarassed shipping with a product in this price range.
All that said, the sounds and picture quality from the Denon are amazing. The unit will convert most inputs to HDMI so there is one cable from the receiver to the TV. This is a great feature that simplifies the tangle of cables. The automated sound optimization for the surround speakers works great and it is worth going through the six sound station checks. Again, funky controls can make this a hassle, you really need to look at the direction of arrow buttons to get through the process. I don't know who at Denon thought that the backward arrow was a good use for "next" but it is used often in configuring the system.
The system also defaults to coax input for sound instead of HDMI so I had to go to the HDMI settings and make the proper selection.
One other drawback is that there are only 2 HDMI inputs, which was frustrating given that the Sony had 4 inputs. To connect my PS3, DVD, and TiVo I ended up buying the OPPO 3 to 1 HDMI switch. The OPPO unit works great, auto-switching between the PS3 and DVD based on port (the low number ports take priority over the high number ports). This makes it easy for the family to use.
Lastly, the remote ... it really is poor, it does not provide the ability to easily switch between all inputs; instead, for some of the inputs you have to turn the remote over, open a flip panel and select the input. To solve this issue I bought a Logitech Harmony 1000 that controls the Denon, TV, TiVo and DVD and makes using the system very easy for everyone.

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Dolby Digital Surround Receiver

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