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Denon AVR-3806 7.1-channel

 

 

A/V Receiver

 

 

This AVR’s advanced auto EQ system puts every seat in the sweet spot. — by Neil Gader

Denon A/V receivers are known for delivering genuine techno- logical advancements, not whoopee-cushion gimmickry, and the mid-priced AVR-3806 is no exception. With the addition of XM capability, HDMI v.1.1 switching with analog source/video upconversion and HDCD decoding, this 120Wpc 7.1-channel receiver easily trumps its overachieving forbear, the AVR-3805.1The 3806 also features Audyssey Lab’s MultiEQ XT auto-setup/room EQ system—tech- nology previously reserved for elite,

premium-priced components.2 Sonically, the AVR-3806 did not dis-

appoint. Credit Denon’s performance- oriented PURE DIRECT mode, which bypasses all unnecessary video and audio circuitry. The Denon also caters to audiophiles by allowing reassign- ment of unused surround back chan- nels for biamping duties up front.

The AVR-3806’s voicing was similar to that of Denon’s earlier 2805, strong- ly midrange-oriented, infused with rich textures, and possessed of a darker overall personality. Treble was lightly rolled off, resulting in reduced high-fre- quency “air” and slightly narrowed soundstages. Nevertheless, orchestral harmonics were well preserved and sibilance was held in check. Where the AVR-3806 distanced itself was in bass extension, offering slam that left the

2805 gasping for air in comparison. Even so, the 3806 gave up some control and definition when pressed hard. On Bryn Terfel’s rendition of “Il Mio Cuore Va” [Sings Favourites: DG], the largest bass drum crescendos demonstrated an exaggerated roundedness that under- mined the drum’s native timbre.

Most auto-setup/EQ protocols leave me cold, but the Audyssey system is one I’m inclined to use. The key differ- ence is that Audyssey takes measure- ments at multiple listening positions, collecting both time delay and frequen- cy information. Crunching that data, Audyssey compensates for room/ speaker interactions, setting specific EQ curves and crossover points for each speaker. The result: an enhanced sweet spot for all listening positions. On James Taylor’s Live at the Beacon Theater the before/after comparison was startling. Image focus, soundstage width, and soundspace continuity were markedly improved, and center chan- nel information was more stable and better integrated. On a sound effects tour de force such as King Kong, there was not only greater energy but improved low level detail and a far greater sense of envelopment.

The Denon AVR-3806 is a sweet combination of innovation, perform- ance, and value. And I can’t say enough about MultiEQ XT from Audyssey

Labs. It adds to the home theater expe- rience immeasurably, proving once again that Denon knows the difference between gimmicks and genuine advancements to the art of surround sound.

User Interface/Ease of Use

Sound Quality, Film

Sound Quality, Music

Value for Money

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The Last Word

•Smooth, midrange-oriented voicing

•HDMI support

•Value

•Audyssey MultiEQ XT system really works

•Bass loses some control and definition when the receiver is pushed hard.

Specifications

Denon AVR-3806

7.1-channel A/V Receiver, $1299

•Dimensions: 17.1" x 6.7" x 16.9"

•Weight: 38 lbs

Manufacturer Information

Denon Electronics (USA), Llc.

(973)396-0810 www.usa.denon.com

1. An iPod docking station for the AVR-3806 will be offered later this year. 2. Audyssey’s MultiEQ XT system debuted on Denon’s then flagship AVR-5805.

68 The Perfect Vision ❘ MAY / JUNE 2006

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Denon specifications Receivers, Denon AVR-3806 7.1-channel

AVR-3806 specifications

The Denon AVR-3806 is a powerful and versatile AV receiver that has made a mark in the home theater space. Esteemed for its blend of cutting-edge technology and user-friendly design, the AVR-3806 brings cinema-quality sound into the comfort of your own home.

At the heart of the AVR-3806 is its impressive amplification system, delivering 7.1 channels of audio. The receiver features Denon's proprietary AVR architecture, enabling it to produce an authentic surround sound experience. It delivers a robust 120 watts per channel, ensuring that every audio detail is rendered with clarity and power, whether it's the subtle whispers of dialogue or explosive action sequences.

One of the standout features of the AVR-3806 is its support for a wide array of audio formats, including Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio, and various multi-channel surround formats. This capability ensures that users can enjoy high-definition soundtracks with remarkable fidelity. The unit also supports both analog and digital audio signals, making it highly versatile in handling a variety of media inputs.

The AVR-3806 boasts Denon's advanced Auto Setup and Room EQ technology, which automatically calibrates the receiver to the specific acoustics of your room. Using the included microphone, the system analyzes the sound profile and adjusts speaker levels, delays, and EQ settings accordingly, resulting in an optimized listening experience.

Connectivity is another strong point of the Denon AVR-3806. It features multiple HDMI inputs and outputs, allowing for seamless integration with various devices such as Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and streaming services. Additionally, the unit supports HDMI upconversion, which enhances the quality of standard-definition content for playback on high-definition display systems.

For the convenience of users, the AVR-3806 comes equipped with a user-friendly interface that makes setup and navigation straightforward. The included remote control features a clear layout, allowing easy access to the receiver's diverse functions.

Notably, the Denon AVR-3806 includes built-in audio processing capabilities, supporting multi-room functionality, which enables users to enjoy different audio content in separate rooms simultaneously.

With its combination of powerful performance, advanced features, and ease of use, the Denon AVR-3806 is a remarkable addition to any home entertainment system, appealing to audiophiles and casual listeners alike. Whether you are watching movies, playing games, or listening to music, this receiver is designed to deliver an immersive audio experience that brings content to life.
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