Denon 8K Receivers And Amplifiers

Denon 8K Receivers And Amplifiers

Denon released several 8K AV receivers and amplifiers (1) that we review in this article. The AV receiver is a very important device in the architecture of your audio (2) and video domestic layout (5) and home theater arrangement (3). The AV receiver is the hub where all your technical equipment connects (7). The receiver retrieves inputs from different sources (6) and routes them forward to output devices (4).

For example. You take one of these Denon 8K receivers, or any other AV receiver fits the example: you perform the connection of a game console to your AV receiver (that is an input). Now your receiver outputs the sound previously received to the speakers connected to it. Likewise, it also outputs the video on the television which is also connected to it.

If you want to dive deeply into these 8K models, we have them reviewed in the following links: we have studied the 8K Denon AVR-X2700H, the Denon AVC-X6700H, the AVC-X4700H, and the AVC-X3700H.

Denon has now in the market the first 8K AV receivers in their product portfolio. The Denon AVC-X6700H, AVC-X4700H, AVC-X3700H, and AVR-X2700H multi-channel amplifiers are based on the X-series multi-channel amplifiers and are intended to usher in the next generation for home theater, music, and gaming applications. The highlight is the HDMI 2.1 board with image processing of 8K / 60 Hz and 4K / 120 Hz.

We have reviews with pictures and technical data of the AVC-X6700H and the two models AVC-X4700H and AVC-X3700H. Now the AVR-X2700H is also added, which is even available in two versions. Because Denon publishes a separate DAB variant available in their Denon 8k receivers listing.

Common to all new AVR is the support of HDMI 2.1 and 8K upscaling – however in the case of the smallest model, the AVR-X2700H only with 30 Hz. All other models are capable of 8K upscaling with 60 Hz.

See the picture below, where we highlighted the 8K option that you will find available in all Denon 8K receivers

Of course, the performance for the Denon 8k receivers also varies: If the AVC-X6700H offers 205 watts for 11 channels, the AVR-X2700H (DAB also) only has 150 watts for 7 channels. For example, the Denon AVR-X2700H (DAB also) stalls at a maximum of 5.2.2-3D audio configurations, while the Denon AVC-X6700H offers up to 9.2.4 or 7.2.6 configurations and the AVC-4700H and X3700H each 7.2 .4 for object-based sound.

Common to all models is support for Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision, HDR10 +, DTS: X as well as smart additional functions via the Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and Apple AirPlay 2. The Denon 8k receivers can also be integrated into the extended Denon ecosystem thanks to Heo’s built-in integration. The manufacturer also mentions support for eARC, 4K with 120 Hz and VRR, QFT, QMS, and ALLM as further features. So everything is ready for the next generation of consoles.

 

 

AVC-X6700H from behind. Easily recognizable: Particularly high-quality speaker cable connection terminals

 

AVC-X4700H from behind

 

AVC-X3700H from behind

Denon is celebrating 111 years of company history as a leading provider of high-quality audio products this year – which is why the new models should once again set standards thanks to full 8K support. The new models of the X series offer exciting and immediately usable new features for home cinema enthusiasts, music fans, and gamers. The main criteria of the new Denon AVRs were to make home cinema with support for eARC and HDR10 + future-proof and to enable gaming experiences with 4K / 120Hz as well as features such as VRR, QFT, QMS, and ALLM.

This is combined with well-known Denon advantages such as the setup assistant, the Audyssey MultEQ XT calibration system, and the reliable and easy-to-use Heos module, which remained untouched. The support hoped for by some of DSD 11.2 MHz and MQA will therefore not exist in 2020. There is currently no support from Dolby Atmos Music (via streaming) onboard.

The prices Of these Denon 8K receivers are the one that follows:

• AVC-X6700H (2.499 dollars) (July)
• AVC-X4700H (1.499 dollars) (July)
• AVC-X3700H (1.099 dollars) (August)
• AVR-X2700H (649 dollars) (September)

Denon 8K Receivers 2020

Denon AV Receiver 2020	Denon AVR-X2700H (DAB)	Denon AVC-X3700H	Denon AVC-X4700H	Denon AVC-X6700H
Amplifier channels	7 channels	9 channels	9 channels	11 channels
Pre Outs	–	11.2 channels	11.2 channels	13.2 channels
Output power	150 W	180 W	200 W	205 W
8K/60-&-4K/120-HDMI-Passthrough	+	+	+	+
8K-Upscaling	+	+	+	+
HDMI inputs/outputs	6/2 (6 inputs and 2 outputs)	7/3 (7 inputs and three outputs	8/3 (8 inputs and three outputs)	8/3 (8 inputs and three outputs)
2 subwoofer outputs	+	+	+	+
Phono input	+	+	+	+
DTS:X Pro	–	–	–	+
Audyssey MultEQ XT32, LFC, Sub EQ HT	–	+	+	+

Key Features Of The Denon 8K Receivers

The Denon AVC-X6700H, AVC-X4700H, AVC-X3700H, and AVR-X2700H (DAB) AV receivers use the latest HDMI technologies with a dedicated “8K” HDMI input for 8K / 60Hz and 4K / 120Hz video Pass-through and support for new HDR formats (including HDR10 + and Dynamic HDR).

The new HDMI function QMS (Quick Media Switching) also makes it possible to switch directly between different resolutions and frame rates without displaying a black screen.

The new Denon 8K receivers also support HDR10, HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma), Dolby Vision, 4: 4: 4 Pure Color Subsampling, and BT.2020 pass-through image formats. They are also able to scale existing HD and 4K content to 8K.

When it comes to audio transmission, the Denon AVC-X6700H, AVC-X4700H, AVC-X3700H, and AVR-X2700H support the eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel), which allows uncompressed, object-based audio data to be transferred from the television to the television using a single HDMI cable AV receiver to transmit.

The Denon AVC-X4700H and AVC-X6700H also offer support for almost all 3D audio formats, including Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology, DTS: X, DTS Virtual: X, IMAX Enhanced, and Auro-3D.

The newly introduced 13.2-channel signal processing with external amplification also allows users to watch the latest IMAX enhanced films with 7.2.6 or 9.2.4 configurations. “DTS: X Pro” is available via a firmware update.

The AVC-X6700H supports eleven amplifier channels with 13.2-channel signal processing, the AVC-X4700H, and the Denon AVC-X3700H up to nine amplifier channels with 11.2-channel signal processing. The Denon AVR-X2700H is designed for up to seven amplifier channels.

The Auro 3D engine is supported by the Denon AVC-X6700H and AVC-X4700H. Both AV receivers and the AVC-X3700H offer IMAX enhanced decoding.

The Denon AVC-X3700H, AVC-X4700H and AVC-X6700H models also feature a new preamplifier mode in which the internal amplifiers are switched off when the receiver is used as an AV processor and all speakers are supplied by external amplifiers.

Since every home theater is unique, Denon uses Audyssey’s room acoustic correction system, which automatically takes audio measurements and optimizes the performance of the AV receiver accordingly.

The newly introduced “Dual Speaker Setup Preset” function makes it possible to save two speaker configurations and to switch directly between them. For example, users can save both the Audyssey calibration result directly from the receiver and a user-defined MultEQ curve created using the Audyssey MultEQ Editor app on the receiver.

Alternatively, Audyssey measurements could also be made for two different speaker configurations, e.g. 2.0 for music and 5.1.4 for films.

Thanks to the HEOS built-in, the AVRs of the X series are able to wirelessly stream music from numerous streaming services such as Spotify and Spotify Free, Napster, Amazon Music (HD), TuneIn, Deezer, SoundCloud, and TIDAL, to HEOS-compatible components, like streaming the Denon Home 250 in every room.

In addition to HEOS, all receivers also support Apple AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth. AirPlay 2 can also stream music from Apple Music.

The AVRs of the X series also have the “Roon Tested” certification, so users can use their music library on PCs and smart devices using the Roon user interface. Via AirPlay 2, the certified AV receivers from Roon can be identified and set up or connected to a Roon core device by cable.

In addition to the possibility of high-res audio streaming, each of the Denon 8k receivers is also equipped with a USB input on the front, which supports the playback of MP3 and high-resolution audio formats (WAV, FLAC, ALAC, and DSD 2.8 / 5.6 MHz ) enables.

The multi-channel amplifiers can be controlled via voice command if required via Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri. Amazon Alexa can be used for numerous functions – including switching between inputs for different players. Using Google Assistant and Apple Siri, users can, for example, adjust the volume or jump to the next track.

Video and HDMI in The Denon 8K Receivers

• (New) 8K: Breathtaking detail thanks to 8K pass-through and upscaling.
• (New) 4K / 120Hz: First-class motion sharpness thanks to 4K pass-through with 120 frames per second
• (New) Variable Refresh Rate (VRR): Reduces or prevents delays, interruptions and frame tearing and ensures a smoother gaming experience
• (New) HDR10 +: Support of HDR10 + pass-through for the optimal use of HDR10 + -compatible televisions
• (New) Dynamic HDR: Optimizes the performance of HDR TVs with Dynamic HDR through dynamic metadata for each individual scene or recording
• (New) Quick Media Switching (QMS): Watch more and wait less, to put it in one sentence. Thanks to Quick Media Switching, black screens are now a thing of the past
• (New) Quick Frame Transport (QFT): Lower latency times for a pleasant and smooth entertainment experience in all Denon 8k receivers.
• eARC support: Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) supports the latest lossless and 3D audio formats for audio transmission directly from the TV to the AV receiver via an HDMI cable
• Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM): Support low latency games on Xbox One (compatible TV required)
• Imposing colors: Support for 4: 4: 4 Pure Color Subsampling, HDR10, HDR10 +, Dolby Vision, Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG), Dynamic HDR, 3D and BT.2020 pass-through for impressive colors and contrasts as well as outstanding clarity
• HDCP 2.3: Support of the latest copy protection standard on all HDMI connections

Audio & Surround-Sound In The Denon 8K receivers

• (New) DTS: X Pro: Allows up to 13 channels to be processed (AVC-X6700H model only)
• Immersive 3D-Sound: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced (ab AVC-X3700H) und Auro 3D (ab AVC-4700H)
• Premium class DA converter: 32-bit DA converter from AKM for high-resolution audio decoding
• High-Res-Audio: Decoding of lossless files in the formats ALAC, FLAC and WAV with up to 24 bit / 192 kHz as well as DSD 2.8 MHz and 5.6 MHz via the USB input on the front or connected devices

Music Streaming And SmartHome With The Denon 8K receivers

• “Roon Tested” certification: Optimal use of music libraries with searchable and navigable information about artists and songs
• HEOS® built-in: music streaming via WLAN and multi-room audio technology with compatible components; HEOS supports streaming services such as Spotify and Spotify Free, Napster, Amazon Music (HD), TuneIn, Deezer, SoundCloud, and TIDAL
• Integrated AirPlay 2: With AirPlay 2, songs from Apple Music can be streamed wirelessly to the Denon 8k receivers; it also allows grouping with other AirPlay2 compatible devices to listen to music all over the house
• Convenient voice control: practical control of music playback and AVR via Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple Siri.
• Bluetooth support: Wireless music streaming and transmission to Zone 2 or HEOS compatible speakers with the free HEOS app. This is available to all Denon 8k receivers
• (New) Bluetooth transmitter: Allows easy connection of Bluetooth headphones, which enables family members or friends with hearing impairments to listen to music at their own volume using headphones; Music can be played simultaneously through headphones and speakers

Setup and improvement of the user experience

• Room calibration & optimized room acoustics: Simple, precise setup and dynamic volume control thanks to Audyssey EQ calibration
• (New) Storage of two Audyssey presets: Storage of two Audyssey configurations, between which you can switch directly – for an even more detailed sound experience. These presets are available for all models of Denon 8k receivers.
• Quick selection: Four quick selection buttons on the front of the device and on the remote control, on which preferred audio settings for each source can be saved
• Remote control apps (iOS / Android): Denon AVR remote control for basic control and setup of the AVR; the Audyssey MultEQ Editor app is available for further adjustment of the room EQ curve

For Gamers

Several new features of the Denon 8k receivers give gamers an advantage, including exceptional motion sharpness with 4K / 120 Hz pass-through and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), which counteracts frame tearing and increases overall precision. Gamers get a head start with ALLM (Auto Latency Mode) and QFT (Quick Frame Transport) to reduce delays and improve response times. Players see the enemy before they see them – in excellent 8K picture quality. The new models in the Denon 700 series are also able to scale existing HD and 4K content to 8K  in order to make the advantages of 8K resolution accessible to a wider range of sources.

Stream movies & TV shows with premium audio quality

The Denon 8k receivers series continue to support eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel), which allows uncompressed, object-based audio data to be transmitted from the television to the receiver using a single HDMI cable.

 The TV plays video data directly from TV apps in the best available quality (4K or 8K), while the AV receiver identifies the best possible surround format for decoding. Thanks to eARC and the latest HDMI connectivity up to 8K Ultra HD, the new X-Series AV receivers make it possible to connect the latest 8K-capable televisions, streaming devices, game consoles, and other players directly.

Denon AVR-X2700H

We have a complete and updated review of this model in this article.

The Denon AVR-X2700H supports Audyssey MultEQ XT, the other models Audyssey MultEQ XT32 and SubEQHT for independent calibration of both subwoofer channels. Customers who want further customization options can also purchase the Audyssey MultEQ Editor app.

Denon AVR-X2700H (DAB) 7.2-Channel 8K AV Receiver

Denon AVC-X3700H

We have a complete and updated review of this model in this article.

Denon AVC-X3700H 9.2 Channel 8K AV Receiver

 

Denon AVC-X4700H

We have a complete and updated review of this model in this article.

Denon AVC-X4700H 9.2 Channel 8K AV Receiver

Denon AVC-X6700H

We have a complete and updated review of this model in this article.

 

Denon AVC-X6700H 11.2-channel 8K AV receiver with 13.2 preamp outputs

The Denon AVC-X6700H is the only model reserved for DTS: X Pro, which enables DTS: X decoding of up to 13 channels with speaker configurations such as 7.2.6 or 9.2.4.

 

8K And Gaming-Features

Let us now turn to the new features and start with the 8K features.

The devices have dedicated “8K” HDMI support for 8K / 60Hz and 4K / 120Hz video pass-through, as well as support for key HDR formats (including HDR10 + and Dynamic HDR). The new HDMI feature QMS (Quick Media Switching) also makes it possible to switch directly between different resolutions and frame rates without a black screen being displayed. Of course, the new models of the X series still support HDR10, HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma), Dolby Vision, 4: 4: 4 Pure Color Subsampling, and BT.2020 pass-through.

 

 

Features not only for TV manufacturers (Samsung, Sony, LG, Panasonic), but also for AV amplifiers and AV receivers (2020) from Denon are very important for gamers.

An exceptional motion sharpness with 4K / 120 Hz pass-through and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), which counteracts frame tearing and increases precision overall, is a core feature of the 2020 Denons. In addition, ALLM (Auto Latency Mode) and QFT (Quick Frame Transport) are available to reduce delays and improve response times.

Now we come to another new core feature because the new models of the Denon X series are also able to scale existing HD and 4K content to 8K to take advantage of 8K resolution to a wider range of sources to make it accessible. Here we are looking forward to the quality of the upscaling.

So far, the models AVR-X4500H, AVR-X6500H, and AVR-X8500H have been able to convince with clean upscaling to Ultra HD. However, since there are now numerous 4K media and more and more displays in native 8K resolution are coming onto the market, further development was consistent – however, it must be said that most 8K TVs can very well extrapolate from FullHD or UltraHD to 8K. Let’s see what the Denon 8K receivers do here, which of course, as usual,

Everything is there: Full 8K support, plus eARC

The new AVRs of the Denon X series continue to support eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel), which allows uncompressed, object-based audio data to be transmitted from the television to the receiver via a normal HDMI cable. The TV plays video data directly from TV apps in the best available quality (4K or 8K), while the AV receiver identifies the best possible surround format for decoding.

 

With Auro-3D: AVC-X4700H, here in premium silver

 

And here the AVC-X6700H

DTS: X Pro®,

This is added to the AVC-X6700H in the form of an update, and it is of interest to very experienced multi-channel and home cinema lovers. So far, for example, Trinnov pre-stages (Altitude) have supported the new, expanded DTS: X standard. DTS: X Pro® supports DTS: X decoding of up to 13 channels with speaker configurations such as 7.2.6 or 9.2.4. The newly introduced 13.2-channel signal processing with external amplification also allows users to enjoy the latest IMAX Enhanced films with 7.2.6 or 9.2.4 configurations. The DTS: X Pro feature was released via a firmware update in 2020.

Flexible configuration options, in the picture the 6700H with the particularly high-quality screw connections

Of course, there is also the full range of the relevant decoding formats. The AVC-X6700H and AVC-X4700H offer support for almost all 3D audio formats, including Dolby Atmos®, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology, DTS: X®, DTS Virtual: XTM, IMAX® Enhanced and Auro-3D®.

The AVC-X6700H supports eleven amplifier channels with 13.2-channel signal processing, the AVC-X4700H, and the AVC-X3700H up to nine amplifier channels with 11.2-channel signal processing. The AVR-X2700H (DAB) is designed for up to seven amplifier channels. The Auro-3D® Engine is supported by the AVC-X6700H and AVC-X4700H. AVR-X6700H, AVR-X4700H, AVC-X3700H also offers IMAX Enhanced Decoding.

New Preamp Mode

The Denon models AVC-X3700H, AVC-X4700H, and AVC-X6700H now also come up with a new preamplifier mode that was previously only available with the flagship AV amplifier AVC-X8500H. In the pre-amplifier mode, the internal amplifiers are switched off when the receiver is used as an AV processor and all speakers are supplied by external amplifiers. This ensures a pure signal path and higher output voltages with less distortion.

Interior with first-class structure

 

 

As you know it from Denon, the new amplifiers and receivers also shine with a very clean structure on the inside, nowhere is there a tangle of cables or unsupported boards.

Everything is screwed tight, and the discrete power amplifiers are constructed so that each power amplifier finds identical working conditions. Large cooling units and solid transformers screwed to the housing base are further features.

HEOS® Built-In – Streaming und Multiroom

The HEOS app is proven, practical, and very reliable and compatible, obviously, with all Denon 8K receivers.

 

Thanks to the HEOS® built-in, the AVRs of the X series are able to wirelessly access music from numerous streaming services such as Spotify and Spotify Free, Napster, Amazon Music (HD), TuneIn, Deezer, SoundCloud and TIDAL to HEOS-compatible components stream. Customers can also enjoy their favorite songs wirelessly in any room. You can either play the same music in every room or choose a different song for each room.

Multiroom with HEOS

The user can equip several rooms with Denon Home loudspeakers and control the entire system via the HEOS app. In addition to HEOS, Apple AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth are also supported. AirPlay 2 can also stream music from Apple Music.

 

Roon compatibility For The Denon 8K receivers

The X-Series AVRs are Roon Tested certified, so users can get the most out of their music library on PCs and smart devices using the advanced Roon user interface for all Denon 8K receivers. Via AirPlay 2, Roon certified Denon AVRs can be easily identified and set up by Roon or connected to a Roon Core device by cable.

In addition to the possibility of high-res audio streaming, each receiver is also equipped with a USB input on the front, which enables easy playback of MP3 and high-resolution audio formats (WAV, FLAC, ALAC and DSD 2.8 / 5.6) MHz).

Compatible With All Three Voice Assistants

The Denon 8K receivers can be conveniently controlled via voice command via Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri. Amazon Alexa can be used for numerous functions – even switching between inputs for different players. Using Google Assistant and Apple Siri, users can, for example, adjust the volume and jump to the next track.

Convenient Setup With The Denon installation wizard

Of course, there is also a practical assistant for the initial setup in all the Denon 8K receivers. So that you know what it’s about and how helpful the great assistant for the initial setup is, we have put some snapshots of the last generation of the assistant here.

 

With the Denon Assistant, it is easy to set up the Denon 8K receivers, in about twenty minutes.

Denon’s installation wizard visually guides users through every step of the setup process. The Audyssey MultEQ XT / XT32 measurement (at up to 8 listening positions) is integrated into the initial setup process, as is the important connection to the network or the connection to the TV.

Audyssey MultEQ

The AVR-X2700H supports Audyssey MultEQ XT, the other new models Audyssey MultEQ XT32 and SubEQHT for independent calibration of both subwoofer channels for more balanced and controlled bass performance. Customers who want more customization options can also purchase the Audyssey MultEQ Editor app, everything stays the way it is, and that’s not a mistake.

Practical feature for two-speaker configurations

The models of the X series, the Denon 8K receivers, also support the newly introduced “Dual Speaker Setup Preset” function, which makes it possible to save two speaker configurations and to switch directly between them. For example, users can save both the Audyssey calibration result directly from the receiver and a user-defined MultEQ curve created using the Audyssey MultEQ Editor app on the receiver, so that they can be compared easily and the preferred settings selected. Alternatively, Audyssey measurements could also be made for two different speaker configurations, e.g. 2.0 for music and 5.1.4 for films.

Conclusion

Denon’s new AVC-X and AVR models now support the pass-through of 8K signals up to 60p and 4K up to 120p.

AVR-X3700H with a microphone and remote control

The Denon 8K receivers master upscaling to 8K resolution and offer, among other things, six HDMI inputs and two outputs. There are also two subwoofer output ports plus phono input. The AVC-X3700H costs 1099 euros and offers nine amplifier channels with an output power of 180 watts. It provides seven HDMI inputs and three outputs. The AVC-X4700H has one more HDMI input to offer, which also achieves an output power of 200 watts and will cost 1499 dollars. The top model is AVC-X6700H for 2499 dollars. It can do all the features of the other models, but offers an output power of 205 watts with eleven amplifier channels for 13.2 processing channels and has eight HDMI inputs and three HDMI outputs on board. He is the only one to understand DTS: X Pro, but only with an upcoming firmware update.

The new Denon 2020 AV amplifiers and receivers offer an extremely sensible further development and are now completely “ready” for the 8K era. As usual, Denon is ahead of its time and also integrates important new features for gamers. High-quality power amplifier technology, “state of the art” in decoding formats, flexible configuration, and with the proven Heos module, the 2020 models will undoubtedly continue the successful series.

They supply seven amplifier channels and work with an output power of 150 watts. They are 8K-60p and 4K-120p capable, so they can loop through a corresponding video signal and pass it on to the TV. Denon then specifies the information as follows: Support for 4: 4: 4 Pure Color Subsampling, HDR10, HDR10 +, Dolby Vision, Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG), Dynamic HDR, 3D and BT.2020. With Dynamic HDR, each individual scene is then optimized using dynamic metadata, provided the television supports the technology.