Audio Video News

Denon today introduced its least expensive IMAX Enhanced AV receiver — a feature-packed 9.2-channel model that lists for $1,100.

Rated to deliver 9 x 105 watts into 8 ohms, the AVR-X3600H is capable of 11.2-channel processing for driving 7.2.4 speaker setups and supports Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG high dynamic range (HDR) in addition to Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and DTS Virtual:X surround processing.

A future firmware update will activate Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, which adds an overhead dimension in setups that lack dedicated height speakers. The receiver is also certified by the Imaging Science Foundation (ISF) and provides a full suite of video calibration controls plus ISF Day and ISF Night video modes.

The X3600H provides eight HDMI inputs and three outputs that support 4K/60-Hz video, 4:4:4 Pure Color sub sampling, and BT.2020 pass-through. HDCP 2.3 copy protection is also supported on all HDMI ports and the receiver is equipped with Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) for more responsive gaming when connected with a compatible TV.

Equally well-appointed for sound, the X3600H has an Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) for transmitting immersive audio from TV apps to the AVR over a single HDMI cable and derives its power from discrete high-current amplifiers on all channels. AKM 32-bit digital-to-analog (D/A) converters support high-resolution audio decoding of 2.8/5.6-MHz DSD files and multiple lossless file types, including ALAC, FLAC, and WAV at up to 24 bits/196 kHz. Vinyl enthusiasts will appreciate the inclusion of a phono input.

Like its X-Series counterparts, the AVR-X3600H supports voice control through Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Siri, and the custom-installation-focused Josh.ai platform, which integrates with Crestron and Control4 systems. Amazon Alexa can be used to switch inputs for different media players, while the Google Assistant and Apple’s Siri can be used to adjust volume and skip tracks.

App-based wireless multiroom music is supported via Denon’s Heos platform, which provides an All Zone (a.k.a. Party) Mode and access to a variety of free and premium streaming services — including Spotify, Pandora, Amazon Music, TuneIn, iHeart Radio, SoundCloud, SiriusXM, and Tidal.

New smart-home focused features include the ability to assign the same HDMI input source over multiple inputs and choose different audio sources plus Audio Select and AirPlay Off so the receiver will not appear on every iOS device throughout the home.

Automated room calibration is also onboard via Audyssey MultEQ XT32 processing with Dynamic Volume and Dynamic EQ, and low-frequency control, allowing listeners to optimize sound, particularly from a subwoofer, based on the unique characteristics of the listening environment.

For more information visit usa.denon.com.