What Hi-Fi? Verdict
An immaculate all-round performance – for the money it’s a sensational machine and extremely difficult to beat
Pros
- +
Hugely entertaining sound
- +
tight, punchy bass
- +
unbelievable amount of detail
Cons
- -
Nothing at this price
Why you can trust What Hi-Fi? Our expert team reviews products in dedicated test rooms, to help you make the best choice for your budget. Find out more about how we test.
Home cinema amplifier Product of the Year 2009
This amplifier's sturdy, understated appearance is typical Denon. It has a vibration-resistant construction, designed to help reduce the effect of outside interference on sound quality.
The '1910 also features shorter signal paths than previous models, and Denon goes to great lengths to highlight the new high-current power supply, claimed to promote a much cleaner sound.
The '1910 covers all the key feature bases, with HD audio decoding, four HDMI inputs, multichannel inputs, and automated speaker set-up.
And, while analogue video upconversion and upscaling are features found in the majority of amps available, the Denon also features HDMI-to-HDMI upscaling.
Don't go on an Audyssey
This model uses Audyssey MultEQ to help set up your speakers, which allows the readings to be taken from up to six different seating positions.
We found, however, that the '1910 performed best with the Audyssey system turned off. We'd suggest you perform a manual set-up, or allow Audyssey to measure your speaker distances and levels and then turn the EQ off once the set-up procedure is complete.
We'd also recommend enabling the amp's Direct Audio mode for optimum sound quality.
Superb at surround sound
Denon amps at this price point have traditionally been very competitive, but this is on another level.
You can't pick any holes in its approach to surround sound. The amp manages to create tension not only through the subtle, quieter moments of House Of Flying Daggers, but also in the larger-scale action sequences.
See all our five-star home cinema amplifer reviews
As people gather to watch the echo game, the Denon gives a fantastic spread of sound.
Then, when Mei's shawl collides with the drums, the amp hits you with immensely powerful and detailed bass. When she finishes and the drummers take over, they are rhythmical and entertaining.
This is a frighteningly good all-rounder, with movies and music. It loves being driven loud but still gives you fantastic insight at lower volumes.
