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Home » Denon AVR-X3800H Review: 9.4-Channel Home Theater Receiver with Dolby Atmos

Denon AVR-X3800H Review: 9.4-Channel Home Theater Receiver with Dolby Atmos

Denon AVR-X3800H Review
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In 2023, about 23 billion dollars worth of consumer electronics were returned worldwide. Only 5% were found to be defective. This shows how vital it is to pick high-quality gear, like home audio systems. The Denon AVR-X3800H, a 9.4-channel receiver, aims to give you an immersive sound experience worth your money.

This A/V receiver supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and has many connectivity options. It’s made to improve your Dolby Atmos home theater. As you read on, you’ll see how its features and performance stand up in today’s market. It costs $1,699.

In This Article

Key Takeaways

  • Supports 9.4 channels for an expansive sound field.
  • Delivers an impressive 105 watts per channel at 8 ohms.
  • Equipped with HDMI 2.1 capabilities for 8K video resolutions.
  • Features advanced room calibration with Dirac Live and Audyssey MultiEQ XT32.
  • Comes with built-in streaming service compatibility for seamless access.
  • Lightweight at 27.6 lbs, making it relatively easy to install.

Introduction to the Denon AVR-X3800H

The Denon AVR-X3800H is a top choice for those who love great sound. It’s perfect for both serious audiophiles and casual viewers. This receiver aims to make any movie, music, or game more immersive.

Launched in 2022, it brings big improvements over its predecessor. It can handle up to 11.4 channels, a jump from the 9.2 channels before. This means better multi-room audio and more complex surround sound setups.

It also packs a punch with 105W of power per channel at 8 ohms. This keeps your sound clear and strong, even when it’s loud. It supports Dolby Atmos and 8K resolution, making it stand out in today’s market.

The Denon AVR-X3800H also has advanced calibration features. Audyssey MultEQ XT32 and optional Dirac Live updates help tailor the sound to your room. This is key for a top-notch home theater experience.

Denon AVR-X3800H features

Denon AVR-X3800H Review

The Denon AVR-X3800H review explores its technical features and user experiences. It’s a 9.4-channel home theater audio receiver priced at $1,699. It aims to bring immersive sound for a cinematic feel, but also has areas for improvement.

This receiver has a strong 9-channel setup, aiming to boost your home audio. It supports full Dolby Atmos and DTS:X layouts, perfect for those who love wide soundscapes. Yet, users say its performance is about 10 dB lower than its predecessor, the AVR-X3700H. The peak performance is 95 dB, so it’s important to think about where it fits in your setup.

Users like the new room correction through Audyssey XT32 technology. It can be set up in about 15 minutes. This feature helps manage sound to fit different room acoustics, making playback clearer and more dynamic.

Even though the Denon AVR-X3800H supports immersive sound, it has issues with jitter and crosstalk. These problems are similar to its predecessors. For a more customized experience, you can opt for Dirac Live, but it costs $259 for limited bandwidth or $349 for full bandwidth.

In conclusion, the Denon AVR-X3800H tries to balance high-quality home theater audio with new features like HDMI 2.1 and 8K video support. You should consider its pros and cons before deciding if it’s right for your home theater.

Design and Build Quality

The Denon AVR-X3800H shows a focus on looks and performance. It’s a 9.4-channel receiver made to fit well in your home theater. It offers strong features too.

Physical Appearance and Layout

The Denon AVR-X3800H has a classic and easy-to-use design. It has two big control knobs for simple use. The front display is clear, making it easy to see important info.

This design makes using the receiver a breeze. It also looks good in any home.

Material and Durability

The Denon AVR-X3800H is built with top-quality parts. It’s made to last and work well for a long time. Its sleek look and strong build show its high craftsmanship.

Denon AVR-X3800H design

Key Features of the Denon AVR-X3800H

The Denon AVR-X3800H is a top choice for home theaters. It offers advanced audio and video tech for a better viewing and listening experience. Whether you love movies or music, this receiver has you covered.

Support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X

The Denon AVR-X3800H shines with its support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. These formats create a three-dimensional sound that feels real. It also works with newer formats like Auro-3D and 360 Reality Audio, keeping your audio up-to-date.

HDMI 2.1 Capabilities

The Denon AVR-X3800H is ready for the future with HDMI 2.1. It can handle high-bandwidth video like 8K at 60Hz and 4K at 120Hz. This means smoother gaming and movie watching. HDMI 2.1 makes sure you can enjoy the latest video tech without any issues.

Denon AVR-X3800H features

Denon AVR-X3800H Performance

The Denon AVR-X3800H is a top pick in home theaters. It offers amazing sound quality for everyone. With 9.4 channels and built-in amplification, it provides balanced sound across all frequencies.

Overall Sound Quality

This receiver makes music and movies sound natural. It’s great for both casual listening and serious audiophiles. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for even better sound.

Amplifier Performance Analysis

The Denon AVR-X3800H has 180 watts per channel at 6 ohms. It gives about 125-130 watts at 8 ohms with two channels. This makes it work well with many speakers.

It can drive multiple speakers without losing quality. The sound is dynamic and rich, perfect for all kinds of content.

Denon AVR-X3800H performance

It also supports up to four subwoofers for better bass. Automatic setup and room correction options make it easy to get great sound. Learn more about how it fits your space and preferences.

Denon AVR-X3800H Specs

The Denon AVR-X3800H is known for its top-notch specs. It offers excellent audio and advanced video processing. Its design focuses on detail, making your experience better.

Power Output and Channel Configuration

The Denon AVR-X3800H has a powerful setup. It supports 11.4 channels, with 9 channels of built-in amplification. This means you get immersive sound in any room.

It delivers about 125 to 130 watts per channel into 8 ohms. At 6 ohms, it goes up to 180 watts per channel. Plus, it has four subwoofer outputs for better bass.

Video Processing Capabilities

The Denon AVR-X3800H shines in video processing. It has six HDMI 2.1 inputs and three outputs, supporting up to 40 Gbps. This means you can enjoy 8K at 60Hz and 4K at 120Hz without issues.

It also supports HDR formats like HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and Hybrid Log Gamma. This makes it a great choice for home theater fans.

Denon AVR-X3800H specs detail

Spec Feature Details
Channels 9.4
Power Output 105W at 8 Ohm, 135W at 6 Ohm
HDMI Inputs 6
HDMI Outputs 3
Data Rate for HDMI 40 Gbps
Video Pass-Through Capability 8K at 60Hz, 4K at 120Hz
HDR Formats Supported HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, Hybrid Log Gamma
Number of Supported Subwoofers 4
Audio Formats Supported Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced, Auro 3D
Bluetooth Connectivity Yes
Wi-Fi Connectivity Yes
Streaming Services Supported AirPlay 2, Spotify, TuneIn, Deezer, Tidal, Netflix, Amazon Prime
Setup Features Fast and user-friendly

Setup and Installation Process

The Denon AVR-X3800H setup is easy for everyone. It has clear on-screen instructions. You can connect your devices and set up settings to enjoy great sound.

Initial Connections and Configuration

When setting up the Denon AVR-X3800H, you’ll find HDMI and other inputs. The receiver’s interface makes it simple to follow each step. Setting up your speakers and devices is quick and easy.

Room Calibration Features

The Denon AVR-X3800H has advanced room calibration. It uses Audyssey MultEQ XT32 to improve sound quality. This ensures the best sound, no matter where you place your speakers. You can also choose Dirac Live for even more control.

Denon AVR-X3800H setup

Connectivity Options

The Denon AVR-X3800H is a top choice for your home theater. It has many HDMI ports and wireless options. This makes it easy to connect your devices for a great audio and visual experience.

HDMI and Other Input/Output Ports

The AVR-X3800H has 6 HDMI ports, all supporting HDMI 2.1. This means you can enjoy 8K at 60Hz and 4K at 120Hz. It also has many analog and digital audio inputs for other devices.

Type Quantity Details
HDMI Inputs 6 Supports 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through
HDMI Outputs 3 Includes 2 HDMI 2.1 outputs
USB-A Port 1 Supports up to 24-bit/192 kHz resolution
Analog/Digital Audio Inputs Multiple Various configurations available

Wireless Capabilities

The AVR-X3800H is great for wireless streaming. It has a dual antenna system and supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. You can stream your favorite music with AirPlay 2, making it easy to enjoy without wires.

Denon AVR-X3800H connectivity

The Denon AVR-X3800H offers many ways to connect your devices. This ensures you can enjoy your media without any trouble.

Comparing Denon AVR-X3800H with Previous Models

The Denon AVR-X3800H is a big step up in the A/V receiver market. It’s compared to its predecessor, the AVR-X3700H. This shows the AVR-X3700H differences, like better performance and price.

Differences from Denon AVR-X3700H

When you compare the Denon AVR-X3800H to the AVR-X3700H, you’ll see some changes. The new model has less power for audio, with a peak output of 95 dB. The AVR-X3700H could go up to 101 dB, a 10 dB difference. The voltage output is also lower in the AVR-X3800H.

But, the general amplifier performance is almost the same. This means Denon tried to keep costs down while adding new features.

Market Positioning

The AVR-X3800H is aimed at the high-end of the A/V receiver market. It’s for people who want great features but don’t want to spend too much. It costs $1,699, which is $500 more than the AVR-X3700H.

Despite the higher price, it offers 8K pass-through and more HDR formats. The Denon AVR-X3800H is for those who want quality sound and connectivity without spending too much. For more comparisons, check out this in-depth review.

Denon AVR-X3800H comparison

User Experience

The Denon AVR-X3800H makes using your home theater easy. Its on-screen menus are simple to follow, helping you set up your system. But, the remote control might be hard to use in dark rooms because it doesn’t light up.

On-Screen Menus and Remote Control

The Denon AVR-X3800H’s interface is easy to navigate. You can quickly change audio settings and speaker setups. The remote control lacks backlighting, but it’s easy to use for main functions. This makes your experience with the Denon AVR-X3800H good.

Interactivity with Streaming Services

The Denon AVR-X3800H shines with its HEOS ecosystem. It lets you easily connect to your favorite music streaming services. It’s also great for playing music in different rooms, thanks to its multi-room audio feature. For more on its connectivity and streaming, check out this detailed review.

Denon AVR-X3800H user experience

Listening Experience with Different Content

The Denon AVR-X3800H offers an amazing listening experience with music and movies. Its advanced technology makes your entertainment sessions even better. You’ll enjoy top-notch audio that takes your experience to new levels.

Performance with Music

The Denon AVR-X3800H excels in music playback. It produces clear and engaging sound for all music genres. The receiver’s detailed highs and rich lows create an immersive listening atmosphere.

Whether it’s classical symphonies or the latest pop hits, the audio performance impresses. You’ll feel every nuance of your favorite tracks.

Film Sound Quality Analysis

The Denon AVR-X3800H’s film sound quality is remarkable. It excels at reproducing film soundtracks, making your audiovisual experiences better. You’ll notice how it brings movies to life, almost like being in a top commercial theater.

This receiver’s ability to deliver dynamic soundscapes is impressive. Every action scene and dialogue comes through with precision. It ensures a detailed and immersive experience.

Denon AVR-X3800H Price Point

The Denon AVR-X3800H costs $1,699. It’s seen as a top pick in the home theater world. It’s for those who want the best sound quality and lots of features in their systems.

Value for Money Analysis

Many think the Denon AVR-X3800H is worth the money. It’s $500 more than the Denon AVR-X3700H. But it has many new features that make it worth it.

It might not have the best sound quality, but it has 8K video and multi-room streaming. These are big pluses.

Pricing in the Context of Competitors

Compared to the Marantz Cinema 50, the Denon AVR-X3800H is a good deal. Both have great features, but Denon focuses on value. It supports all major HDR formats and has lots of setup options.

Pros and Cons of the Denon AVR-X3800H

The Denon AVR-X3800H has both great features and some drawbacks. Knowing the pros and cons helps you decide if it’s right for your home theater.

Strengths of the Receiver

This model shines in audio processing, delivering rich sound for music and movies. It has six HDMI inputs for connecting modern devices. It also works well with different types of content, making it versatile.

  • High-quality audio performance
  • Advanced processing capabilities
  • Support for a wide range of audio formats
  • HDMI 2.1 and 8K video pass-through features

Limitations and Areas for Improvement

Despite its benefits, the Denon AVR-X3800H has some drawbacks. It has lower DAC performance than older models, affecting sound quality. The non-backlit remote is hard to use in the dark. Sometimes, auto-calibration doesn’t work right, leading to poor sound.

Aspect Denon AVR-X3800H Denon AVR-X3700H
Price $1,699 $1,199
Peak Level Performance 95 dB 101 dB
Optimal Output Voltage Lower than 2.0 volts 2.0 volts
SINAD Ranking Negatively impacted N/A
Dynamic Range Unchanged Unchanged

Knowing the Denon AVR-X3800H’s pros and cons helps you decide if it’s right for you. It’s important to understand both its strengths and weaknesses before buying.

Conclusion

Looking for the best home theater receiver? The Denon AVR-X3800H might be what you need. It offers advanced features and top-notch sound. This review shows it’s a great choice for those who love immersive audio.

Even though it has some areas for improvement, its performance is outstanding. The Denon AVR-X3800H costs $1,699. This makes it a good deal compared to pricier models like the Denon AVR-X4800H.

It supports Dolby Atmos and has many connectivity options. This makes it a strong contender. This review highlights its value for those wanting to improve their home theater without spending too much.

In short, the Denon AVR-X3800H is a solid choice for a home theater. It has a strong design, great sound, and is ready for the future. It’s a good pick for anyone looking to upgrade their audio experience.

FAQ

What are the main features of the Denon AVR-X3800H?

The Denon AVR-X3800H supports 9.4 channels. It works with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. It also has HDMI 2.1 and lots of connectivity options for a great home audio experience.

How does the sound quality of the Denon AVR-X3800H compare to other receivers?

People say the AVR-X3800H has balanced and natural sound. It handles complex soundscapes well. This makes it a strong competitor in the high-end receiver market.

What is the price of the Denon AVR-X3800H?

The Denon AVR-X3800H costs

FAQ

What are the main features of the Denon AVR-X3800H?

The Denon AVR-X3800H supports 9.4 channels. It works with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. It also has HDMI 2.1 and lots of connectivity options for a great home audio experience.

How does the sound quality of the Denon AVR-X3800H compare to other receivers?

People say the AVR-X3800H has balanced and natural sound. It handles complex soundscapes well. This makes it a strong competitor in the high-end receiver market.

What is the price of the Denon AVR-X3800H?

The Denon AVR-X3800H costs $1,699. It’s seen as a good value for quality audio in home theaters.

How easy is it to set up the Denon AVR-X3800H?

Setting up the AVR-X3800H is easy. It has on-screen guides for HDMI and connections. This makes installation simple and user-friendly.

What are the connectivity options available on the Denon AVR-X3800H?

The AVR-X3800H has 6 HDMI 2.1 inputs and outputs. It also has many analog and digital audio connections. Plus, it supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and AirPlay2 for easy streaming.

Does the Denon AVR-X3800H support 8K video?

Yes, it supports 8K video on all HDMI inputs and outputs. This makes it a good choice for future-proofing your home theater.

How does the Denon AVR-X3800H handle music playback?

The receiver offers clear and engaging sound for all music genres. It creates an immersive listening experience with detailed highs and rich lows.

What are the limitations of the Denon AVR-X3800H?

Some users mention slight DAC performance drops compared to older models. There’s no backlit remote. Also, auto-calibration settings can sometimes be off.

Is the Denon AVR-X3800H compatible with the HEOS ecosystem?

Yes, it works with the HEOS ecosystem. This makes it easy to access a wide range of streaming services.

How does the Denon AVR-X3800H compare to the Denon AVR-X3700H?

The AVR-X3800H keeps most of the AVR-X3700H’s features. But, it has slight audio processing performance drops. It’s a robust receiver overall.

,699. It’s seen as a good value for quality audio in home theaters.

How easy is it to set up the Denon AVR-X3800H?

Setting up the AVR-X3800H is easy. It has on-screen guides for HDMI and connections. This makes installation simple and user-friendly.

What are the connectivity options available on the Denon AVR-X3800H?

The AVR-X3800H has 6 HDMI 2.1 inputs and outputs. It also has many analog and digital audio connections. Plus, it supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and AirPlay2 for easy streaming.

Does the Denon AVR-X3800H support 8K video?

Yes, it supports 8K video on all HDMI inputs and outputs. This makes it a good choice for future-proofing your home theater.

How does the Denon AVR-X3800H handle music playback?

The receiver offers clear and engaging sound for all music genres. It creates an immersive listening experience with detailed highs and rich lows.

What are the limitations of the Denon AVR-X3800H?

Some users mention slight DAC performance drops compared to older models. There’s no backlit remote. Also, auto-calibration settings can sometimes be off.

Is the Denon AVR-X3800H compatible with the HEOS ecosystem?

Yes, it works with the HEOS ecosystem. This makes it easy to access a wide range of streaming services.

How does the Denon AVR-X3800H compare to the Denon AVR-X3700H?

The AVR-X3800H keeps most of the AVR-X3700H’s features. But, it has slight audio processing performance drops. It’s a robust receiver overall.