This, complete with its brace of remote controls, is the new Denon AVR-3808, a network-capable HD Audio receiver which slots into the range between the £900 AVR-2808, reviewed in the Awards issue, and the £2000 AVR-4308, tested in November's WHFSV.
The £1300 unit's HDMI 1.3a connectivity means it can handle Dolby True HD and DTS-HD audio, supports Deep Colour and xvYCC, and has Auto Lip Sync. There are four HDMI inputs, analogue and digital video upscaling to 1080p and connections for an iPod using Denon's optional ASD-1R dock.
Other features include network streaming of music files and internet radio via an Ethernet connection, USB sockets front and rear, and PC set-up and control, with the option of remote diagnosis, update and upgrade via an internet link.
It delivers 7x160W, uses three independent transformers and nine independent power supply circuits, and has both Denon's Advanced AL24 Plus conversion and the company's Dynamic Discrete Surround Circuit HD.
A Compressed Audio Restorer can be used with all computer-stored music files, and there also a comprehensive Pure Direct provision for the best audio quality.
Audyssey MultEQ XT is used for automatic set-up, there's a new photo-real Graphical User Interface, and the receiver can deliver entertainment into up to three zones, a second handset being provided for use in the remote zones.
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