Denon AVR3802 AV Receiver Review
Written: Jul 06 '02 (Updated Jul 06 '02)
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Pros: Sound and construction quality. Solid value.
Cons: Large size, very heavy. Small display LEDs.
The Bottom Line: Be sure to give this Denon AVR an audition. IMHO, it's the best value in the $800 price range.
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| advocate46's Full Review: Denon AVR-3802 7.1 Channels Receiver |
Introduction
It’s difficult to overstate the importance of the audio-video receiver (AVR) in the home theater system (HTS). Due to all the features, functions, and technical requirements, the selection process can be extremely difficult and time consuming. Perhaps the only thing that has more affect on the sound is the speakers. Since subject deserves another review, I plan on reviewing my new Klipsch reference series speakers soon.
The AVR needs to have enough power to drive the speakers to the loudest levels that you like, so your needs may vary from mine. I use my HTS for mostly video, but as a musician, I need to have a system with great accuracy and tonal qualities. Ideally, the unit should sound as real and natural as possible, sounding neither “bright” nor “warm”. The output sound quality should be consistent whether played softly as background music, or at deafeningly loud concert levels. Output wattage ratings can be deceiving, but generally a surround system needs equal wattage for all 5 or 7 channels. Your wattage needs will depend on the efficiency of your speakers. Your mileage may vary, but about 80 watts per channel is typically adequate for most needs. At the loudest levels you enjoy, the bass should not cutout, the vocals should still sound clear, and the drums should still have punch and sparkle. With a well-matched system, the speakers and the receiver will start to audibly distort at about the same time.
When evaluating an AVR, it is important to compare the features and capabilities of each product. Perhaps the most important feature is the digital signal processing (DSP) abilities. The AVR needs to be able to process Dolby Digital and DTS signals, as well as the newer DTS-ES format with accuracy and fidelity. DSP quality varies tremendously, so expect much better sound from the more expensive processors. Most of the time surround signals are analog, so the AVR must have Dolby ProLogic 2 and DTS Neo capabilities. Some people also will use the “theater” or “stadium” modes to simulate a larger sound stage, but this is not to my liking.
Your AVR is also an electronic AV switch, so pay particular attention to this important function. Compare and note the quantity of audio and video inputs. Be sure there are component video inputs and that they are capable of high bandwidth (HDTV) video, as well as the standard SVHS and composite video formats used with older sets.
The AVR user interface can be the difference between a great product and a nightmare. When auditioning the AVR, note the remote control, LEDs, lights, buttons and knobs. Ask yourself if this is easy to use, or if there could have been a better way. Try using the remote control from a distance, and while not pointing directly at the AVR. This is subjective, so your needs and preferences may vary.
And finally, make a judgment on the construction quality and technical accomplishments of the AVR. Do the buttons and knobs feel flimsy, or heavy duty? Is the cabinet mostly plastic and flimsy, or steel and rigid? Weight is also a good indicator or quality. All electronics generates some heat, but you want to keep this to a minimum. Unfortunately, sometimes the best sounding equipment generates the most heat.
General
I’ve been using my Denon AVR3802 audio video receiver since mid April, 2002, so I’ve become very experienced with the unit. I’m quite satisfied and I would recommend it to anyone looking for an AVR in this price range. The next Denon AVR model higher (4802) is THX certified, costs about $1500 more, but otherwise is very similar to the 3802. The AVR3802 has enough output power (110 watts into 7 main channels) to drive most speakers to the levels most people demand, and has a user interface that is as simple as HTS can be.
For detailed specifications and features, please refer to the Denon website: http://www.del.denon.com/catalog/products.asp?l=1&c=2
Audio
This is where the AVR3802 really stands out. The unit puts out completely natural and uncolored audio to my Klipsch reference speakers whether played soft or loud, music or movies. Digital sounds (DD and DTS) from DVDs are even more impressive, with a smoothness that natural tonal quality that rivals separate components. The unit uses the same DSP as all the Denon AVR units costing more. I have read others describe the Klipsch speakers as “bright” or “harsh”, but I am experiencing the most natural and transparent sound that can be bought in this price range. Perhaps it’s just a great match, but as a musician, I’m completely satisfied with the combination.
One nice thing is the unit has 7 different power amplifier (speaker) outputs. Other models only have 5, which requires an additional amplifier if you want to either have more surround speakers or play speakers in another room. The additional channels can be assigned as surround or stereo (for a remote room).
Video
The AVR3802 has more than enough video inputs and is capable of playing HDTV component signals as needed. I’ve only used the SVIDEO and composite video inputs, so I can’t comment on the component video performance. All the video I’ve seen, however, has been flawless.
User Interface
Perhaps this is where some might feel the Denon unit has fallen short of the mark, but I don’t agree. Some of the key features that are buttons on most AVRs are on a rotary switch. All AV inputs, and digital mode selections are on separate rotary knobs. These functions are buttons on the remote control, where they will normally be changed, anyway. Once the unit is setup, and the AV functions established for each source, there is little need to change. The result is a great looking, easy to use, easy to program product.
The LEDs on the front panel are small, but easy to read when up close. Some might find the output sound level LEDs too small, but I do not pay much attention to that anyway. I adjust the volume to my ears, not my eyes.
The remote control is perhaps a bit on the cheap side for this price range. It’s a multi-type programmable unit so it reads other remotes if the units preprogrammed functions aren’t adequate. All of the important functions are on the remote, but the backlight button only lights up a few of the key functions such as volume control, channel changing, and VCR type navigation. The unit must be pointed almost directly at the component to be operated.
I must agree with the others that the written manual has a lot to be desired. I’ve seen worse, but this manual is marginal at best. It does point out some answers to some of the most obvious questions the owner might have, however. Things such as to not expect a SVHS signal if the input is composite. Duhhh…!
Physical
The AVR3802 is pretty large and heavy. The cabinet is very strong and rigid, while being very attractive as well. There seems to be a good deal of heat generated, so external ventilation is required if the unit is inside a closed cabinet.
I am especially impressed with the feel of the buttons and knobs. When turning the rotary knobs, you get a sure feeling when you have made a selection. The buttons are a bit stiff to operate; even Arnold could not break them. When you mute the audio output, the unit clicks audibly, probably because the unit uses heavy-duty relays.
The AVR3802 uses banana plugs for speaker connections. There are provisions for using bare speaker wire, but this proved to be very difficult. The problem is that the terminals are closely spaced, but it can be done. It’s better to just get some banana plugs. I shopped around for awhile at the local stores here in Silicon Valley. I found some great banana plugs at Action Surplus down the street here in Sunnyvale. They are super heavy duty, only $2.99 each, and gold plated to boot. One slight problem is that they come as a pair of terminals, and the horizontal spacing between the wire pairs on each plug does not allow you to use one plug with one speaker. If you turn them vertically however, they line up perfectly with the receiver layout. This is ok since each plug is colored completely in red or black. So I ended up wiring the left and right ground speaker wires to a single black banana plug, and the left and right signal speaker wires to a single red banana plug, etc. For a 5 or 5.1 speaker setup, you need a total of six plugs. That is because the bottom speaker terminals only use one of the connectors from each of the bottom pair of plugs. If you prefer, cutting apart the molded body can separate the banana plug terminal pairs. I would have done that if they did not line up with the receiver terminals. Give Action computer a call to order your banana plugs at: 408-739-0316 X4. Be sure to order 3 of each color.
Note also that this unit (and all Denon products to my knowledge) is manufactured in Japan. It used to be that this meant an inferior product compared to built in the USA. Since virtually all electronics is now built in the Far East, Japanese now means the highest available manufacturing standards. This comes at a price, but I feel that the added expense is worth it in this case. I have never been more impressed with the feel and quality of an electronics product. I have a great deal of confidence about the durability of this unit.
Conclusion
I am extremely pleased with almost everything about the Denon AVR3402 receiver. The audio and video quality is especially good, while the physical quality is quite impressive as well. The unit is technologically advanced, while keeping unnecessary fluff to a minimum. I would recommend this unit to almost anyone looking for an AVR in this price range.
System
Denon AVR3802
4 each Klipsch RB3 mains and surround speakers
1 each Klipsch RC1 center speaker
1 each Klipsch RS12 subwoofer
JVC XVF85 DVD changer
Hitachi 27” tube TV with SVHS inputs
Philips VRA999 SVHS VCR
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 739.00
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Epinions.com ID:
advocate46
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Location: Silicon Valley, CA
Reviews written: 5
Trusted by: 0 members
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