★ *GET IT HERE: **bit.ly/3apHyLM**, **bit.ly/D37008K* ★ *QOTD: What matters most to you? Dual sub outs or more next gen HDMI inputs?* ★ CLICK ⌄ “SHOW MORE” in the description for answers to many of your questions* ★ *RULES: Please be respectful. NO OUTSIDE LINKS, URLs, email addresses, etc.*
I’m going to side on the future proof HDMI choice. There’s lots of options for great bass with a single sub but no fix for inputs that aren’t capable of carrying a signal that it can’t handle.
Next gen HDMI input for me! Plus if you do a subwoofer right...should you even know that you have dual sub outs versus single? I'm admittedly bias in my answer as as I'm evidently not a big shake-the-room-subwoofer macho guy compared to others.
@Bryan Ruby - Two subwoofers, independent or not, does not equal twice the bass. Properly set up, two subs should equal better bass over a wider area. The reason why a second sub output being independent is potentially important is that it would allow you to apply specific room correction to each sub individually based on their placement. If you have two sub outputs but they are not independent, then both subs would get the same treatment which may or may not be the best.
I like the dual sub outs more as a feature, to me the number of HDMI inputs can be adjusted with a splitter box and I’ll probably be fine. But! The top feature that I like about Denon is the tactile volume knob on my current receiver; it feels great to turn! I’m considering that if I get something else I’ll try to solder a Denon volume switch into it.
i have spent a fortune on reccomendations from this channel only to come to the sad conclusion that my hearing isn't good enough to tell the difference most of the time. Your reviews are excellent and they help me feel better as I sit here pretending that I know what "forward" means when it comes to an amp. I am surrounded by Klipsch boxes that, as far as I can tell, do little more than make me question my volume choices when playing guitar in rock bands when I was younger. On the bright side, I have decided that I am going to get a haircut like yours when I get out of lockdown.
As a former drummer from the 80s who was surrounded by Marshall full stack amps, I understand you. My polk speakers all sound the same. I couldn't tell the difference for the life of me.
Maybe you need a break from your horns. I suggest finding a local retailer where you can hear a pair of Martin Logan ESL’s. Night and day sound difference vs Klipsch.
I think one of the main selling points of the X series Denon’s for home theatre enthusiasts is the quality of the rca outs generally being better than other receivers and it’s ability to do full 11 channel processor mode disconnecting the internal amps.
I had Yamahas, Onkyos and Denons over the past 25 years. Obviously receivers have evolved in how they sound over the years. However, each has a typical sound characteristic. To me the biggest jump in sound quality, was when I switched from Onkyo to Denon. The soundstage, detail, fullness, warmth, and musicality was so much better. I like that “Denon” sound a lot. It’s like if I had changed my speakers too. I have the X3400H to which adding external amplification made another big impact, bringing my speakers to deliver its full potential. Another great improvement was investing in two large subwoofers. Great review guys, the way you describe the sound quality and characteristic is very detailed and helpful, this is always my favorite part. It’s the most important part that many reviewers don’t provide sufficient detail. Next year is time to upgrade the receiver again and I’m glad the HDMI 2.1 issues are slowly getting fixed. It’s not the first time that manufacturers are going through a learning curve with HDMIs, always a matter of waiting for the right moment to buy a new receiver. Will you also review the new Pioneer Elite receivers?
@@dr.anthonyforgione4253 It’s been a long time since my first Denon, at least 8-9 years and would believe that today’s Onkyo would sound differently. The big difference to me at the time, Denon impressed me because it had a more detailed, fuller snd more refined musical sound. The Onkyo was more metallic, neutral with harsher highs, it was not as involving, to me as if I had updated my speakers. Not sure if there is so much of a difference anymore, based on the reviews, however Denon still seem to have it’s unique characteristic whereas Onkyo continues to be more neutral.
I have a Denon X3500H in my secondary family room setup and it’s been fantastic. Spec-wise for power output, everything seems to be comparable to what the X3700H has to offer minus the 8K output. It’s a shame only one hdmi has 8K support with this one and at this point, it don’t think I’d upgrade any of my receivers in either of my setups until they all have full 8K hdmi inputs across the board. I know 8K is really limited at this point, but I think an amp/receiver upgrade for me, would really boil down to when 8K things become the new norm. Fantastic review though Andrew! You and “New Record Day” easily have the best videography and in-depth reviews that I love. The amount of time when it comes to writing a review and shooting all the B-roll, I know has to be incredibly time consuming. There’s plenty of RU-vidrs out there that review this kind of stuff, but your attention to detail and the extra effort that you put into your videos “editing wise” really is what makes me continue to come back each week. Thank you!
For anyone still thinking about buying this, WAIT, the new x3800H was just announced and it has ALL HDMI 2.1 ports (Maybe they're making up for the manufacturer defects). I bought the x3600H for $800 when the x3700H came out, I have plenty of HDMI 2.1 ports on my TV, and I just EARC those devices out, so I'm still very happy with my purchase. No need to upgrade soon, but if you're looking at this model, just wait a little longer for the new one.
The way supply chain issues are going that means the new model won't be physically available for a year. Even now most current receivers are on back order.
I have the Denon 4700x and I have been very happy with it the whole time. The room correction has been well worth it. I have grown the system and I am now running it as a 7.1.4 system, set up mostly for Auro 3-D (fit the constraints of my room better that a pure Atmos setup). The issues with 8k are not a big concern for me yet, this is not in a room that is used for gaming, but I did get the adapter box for when steaming boxes support it. Right now all I have connected are the Shield and Apple TV. It is in my plans to move to seperate Amps down the line. (I do have one smaller amp to be able to support all 11 amplified channels.)
I bought this AVR about a week ago and it’s doing a great job. Only one 4K 120/8K input and output is fine for me because that’s enough for one Xbox Series X. Around new year I started updating my home entertainment in the living room. First a new Xbox and 4K OLED. While I was setting the TV I realized that my over 10 years old budget 5.1 setup can’t handle all the new stuff. So I started searching for AVRs and speakers. That’s how found this channel. I like the down to earth presentation and analyzation of the products.
Glad you gave Denon another shot. I’m a long time Denon fan when it comes to A/V receivers. I’ve been at this hobby for about 30 years & started with Yamaha, have experience with Onkyo, Pioneer etc. I prefer the warm full bodied sound of Denon and find some of the others to sound more clinical/digital in comparison. YMMV. All ears have preferences & I haven’t had all the products in my room for direct comparison. Dual subs with independent settings is an exceptional feature for those who haven’t tried it
I bought the X3500H a few years ago and it’s the best AV upgrade I’ve ever made. Always wanted a DENON amp but they were out of my price range. Denon’s website and their technical directories and libraries are extremely well laid out. This alone is worth the investment in this brand
Just purchased the 4700h....I love how it's so simple to set up. My first home theater I've put together it wasn't as difficult as I thought. Thanks as I've watched your videos on home theater consistently for assistance.
I recently purchased a Denon 4700h. Absolutely love the sound, and clarity out of this unit. With that stated it took over 20 hours or so to figure out setup. These guys have loudness, and compression setup by default and distorts all over the place. They put in mid range compensation, roll off the top end and have around 10 or so settings around compression by default. I don't understand that or like it. Finding all those settings to turn off is what took time. I think with those settings turned off it's one of the best I've ever heard.
Good review. Not necessarily related to this but I've found a new "torture test" album for testing systems. Charles Mingus' "Blues & Roots". I've been listening on the newest stereo vinyl release. Soundstage, dynamics, basically everything except vocals. It will definitely put a set of speakers and an amp through its paces.
An 8K HDMI splitter is only $40-60. Fixes the single one available issue for relatively cheap. Yes, it is something else to buy, but if that was the only reason not to get this receiver, there is your fix. I got one and it works perfectly. I can easily switch from the Xbox to the PS5 with no problem.
I bought this while waiting for the Yamaha A8A and was lucky enough to get it days before the price increase. So far I'm very happy. I'm listening to music on multi channel stereo and now I want to upgrade my height speakers (15 year old Bose AM 10 cubes). I'm happy enough with this for now. I probably won't bother upgrading anytime soon. Thanks for this review
I had the x3700h. I found that it sounded flat and the sound wasn't as defined as my old denon avr. I went to best buy and listened to x2700, x3700, and x4700. I found that the x2700 sounded the most defined. So I returned my x3700 and got the x2700. I am happy.
Great review thanks. I own the x3700 and love it. It's easy to use, has great sound, and integrates really well into my home theater system. Plus it has the pre-amp mode to use with external amplifiers!
I have an X-4700 and almost returned it because if the harshness in the treble. I ended up running Audyssey on frequencies only below 500hz which totally solved the issue for me.
I decided to go with 6700h because of auro 3d and 13 preouts. Should be receiving it on Monday. And for speakers because of Your review of Heco aurora 700 I decided to go with aurora 1000 towers, center 30 and aurora 300 for surrounds. These are also arriving on Monday.
Great review! I have the X3700H powering LS50 Meta for L/R and a sub. I agree with the harshness of treble when Audessy is left unchecked, using the app to limit correction to only below 300-500hz solves the issue and doesn't mess with the great KEF speakers. However, I see this as an issue if you have speakers that'd you'd like to EQ for their full range. I really appreciate the X3700H's great bass management and pre-outs for future flexibility.
When I came 2-channel music... I actually preferred the sound of the budget 7.2 Sony STR 1080 (£400) receiver over the mid price Denon 6500 receiver (£1800)
Love the honesty in your reviews, no tell tale BS going on like a lot of others on RU-vid. Great well thought out content and your suggestions are bang on. The song "warning call", by Chvches is now my go to for testing any set up. If it isn't right that song will let you know. Thanks. Please keep em coming.
Hey guys I really enjoyed that video very informative. As for the question of the day I’m always probably going to go with the thing that’s a little more future proof
Had my 3700 for a few months and love it dearly. It blew my mind coming from the Sony 1080. The powerful room filling sound. Very reliable as well, in that it just works. No weird annoying quirks. The HDMI isn't an issue fir me as I connect my Xbox Series X and PS5 directly to the TV using eARC to feed the audio back onto the Denon. I've just been sent that box that fixes the HDMI issue but I don't need it. It's purely there for when I come to sell my 3700 although that won't be happening anytime soon.
That's how I have my PS5 connected for audio as well, but the frustrating part is having an LG CX OLED that does not offer DTS codec pass through. LG and Samsung have removed this codec from their TV's!
PS5 users wanting HDMI 2.1 features should steer clear from all the new denon line up. It has VRR+HDR issues that they seem not to know how to fix. Countless emails and countless troubleshooting steps , 2 units tested , 2 PS5s , 2 different tv models and the issue still happens. The videos are on my channel with the description and what tests were done
I have the 3600H which was the 4K/60Hz model that came out before the 3700H upgrade. My UST projector and PC are limited to that so I am just fine and it all comes down to sound quality and ease of use. The Denon is a winner. It's clearly designed for mainstream users in an increasingly crowded field and it gives great performance and value for the money. As Andrew says, it's solid. Right now, the 2 independent subwoofer outputs are most important to me and I wouldn't be able to live without them. 4K/120 Hz or 8K/60 Hz will only become important once I get a projector and a PC graphics card that can meet the standard.
I just went with the 6700h, after running a 7.2.4 configuration, the power just wasn’t enough. It felt like it was struggling and weak, also getting hot (+125 degrees F!)from driving all those speakers. So I tried adding 2 external amps and setting the Denon to preamp mode only. The sound is definitely clearer and details are there in every movie. I’m very impressed with the Denon, I can connect all of my sources, it’s a smooth machine. Since adding the external amps, now the temperature runs around 80 degrees F with an AC Infinity fan on top.
@@demwillams8898 I ordered 3 EMOTIVA BAS X amps from EMOTIVA. A 3 channel amp, A 4 channel amp and A 7 channel amp. This was perfect, because I can focus the front three channels LCR with more power, then run my side and rear channels with the 4 channel amp, my Dolby Atmos channels with the 7 channel amp. I have only 4 Dolby Atmos speakers atm, I will be adding 2 heights for more immersion. I’m getting around 85 to 90 db from the listening position, I’m sitting 7 feet from the LCR front main stage, the Denon is set to -20.0 on the volume and is calibrated to Flat. If your focus is just music, I’d say go with just the 2 channel amp only, if you went with the EMOTIVA brand, their BAS X is around $399 with plenty of juice. They do have their higher end 2 channel amp at the $2k mark 😣 When I switch over from movies to music, I have to turn the volume down to -30.0, the sound very loud, but clean.
@@demwillams8898 For sure! Hope you find something that works, not all amps are the same, I only went with the Emotiva Brand because they sound great and run very cool, I can triple stack the amps on top of each other without use any fans for them!
@@cruzgallegos5071 stacking is a huge plus. I cut out some rear sections in my cabinet and run some USB ac infinity fans off both the avr and Xbox. They work great but with amps I think I'll need more. I have a basic 5.1 setup but have been thinking about a changup to atmos or a 7.1. My issue is my front stage and subs are expensive (enough for me anyway) so adding units is also expensive haha. Do you have a build thread on avsforum at all? Would be interesting to see the amp setup. Either way, thank you. I've been on the fence for running external amps or just upgrading avr, but I think I'll take the plunge. I'll do one last full setup/test/tweak of my system for a baseline and hopefully see good gains...literally haha
On My first denon I had spilled water on it and the safety feature shut the system off to protect it. After drying it. It still works till this day. Has it for over 6 years. I hope the ONKYO has this feature because kids can very hard on equipment. Lol
I used to be a huge Denon fan, but no I would not touch them with a 10000 foot poll. Had two of them both HDMI boards went bad in less than two years. They also run very hot and are known to overheat. They have manufacturing issues with the boards.
I have been using the Denon x3700 with Q Acoustics 3050i package with QB12 since April. Added one of your favourite amp take the load of front channels, NAD 320BEE using it as a power amp. This is god setup for me and many of my friends have said so.
I bought the Denon x3700H I have been spending the last couple of weeks trying to get it "right". I found that I do have to push it to drive my Focal 826 Chorus V speakers to a satisfactory listening level. Now that I found the Onkyo TX-RZ50 in stock, the Denon is going back.
Considering picking up the X2700H to power a Dali Oberon front stage. From my tests (with a combination of Led Zeppelin and an Atmos Mixed film), the X2700H sounds great. The RZ50 just doesn't seem to be available in my region. PS - I love how you get your partner's opinion on these reviews, makes for a really engaging video. 🙂
I own a AVR-X2700H and it's a lovely amp/AVR. It has a sweet sound quality with great bass and mids. Highs are natural and not exhausting to listen. Ours is a 5.2.2 acoustically treated enclosed theater room having dimensions of 16x12x9 feet (1700cuft). KEF T301s as the front stage T101s as rears and Ci160er pair as heights, Dual PB1000 Pros.
Dual PB1000 pros? you're speaking my language. I only ordered one, but that's because HIFI is quite pricey in my country 😅 ... What difference do you notice having two of them? I'm moving on to HIFI after using Sonos surround sound for a number of years. REALLY looking forward to having it set up!
Brother I really appreciate your thoughtful Law of Diminishing Returns discussion and logic. For your survey ... The features that get me to make my selection include performance, value and some future proofing expandability ... and thanks to you both I have learned that Onkyo also allows Sonos Integration. Cheers, Eric
I have the Denon AVR-X6500H and love mine, no need for 8K or 120FPS with HDMI 2.1 since there are no movies or games that will take advantage of it yet. It’s a monster of a AV receiver!
That's a great receiver, but the Series X had been out for a year, now... WITH 4K120 games. These guys new the tech was coming down the pipe and didn't update their product line.
@@frankeezee doesn't matter what system you have they don't really do proper 4k 120fps. They can barely do 4k 60fps having a beast of a pc it can do 4k 60fps but true 4k 120fps on high or ultra settings good luck my friend. NO WAY a console system that costs 500 dollars is gonna get close to doing 120fps.
I love your videos and still weighing this up and the Onkyo. I have no idea if I order one, when I would get it with chip shortages. I love the interviews with Kristi at the end but feels slightly uncomfortable as a viewer with the conversation happening with her offscreen. It's probably just me. I find it easier to listen it to it as a podcast and it's easier to consume at that point in the video. Would be great to see both of you onscreen - but understand if she's not comfortable doing that. Keep up the great work and the charity work is awesome!
Ive been waiting for a Denon sound quality description for so long since Ive never heard one being a lifetime Yamaha fan. Thank you so much for this and yes I will try out a new Onkyo when more advanced units come out.
From Kristi’s comment about Audyssey sounding fuller, am I right assuming you set Audyssey Dynamic EQ on? I’m asking because typically Audyssey tends to calibrate the subwoofer with a total flat response, which many consider as “Audyssey stole my subwoofer”. It seemed strange to me listening to someone saying that the sub got a bump after Audyssey. Yes, it happens, but only after turning on Dynamic EQ or Dynamic Volume. I’m really curious about this. Thanks Andrew. I loved your very old series about replicating IMAX at home.
You can always go into the Audyssey MultiEQ App (not free BTW) and adjust the curve/hump anyway you like. Can't do it without the App (that I'm aware of) but the App does make customization pretty easy.
i had the same problem with "compressed" highs and way to resolve it is apply speaker correction on audyssey app only to about 1 khz /somebody even recommends 700hz/ leave the middrange and highs natural.. that resolve artificial sounding highs.. another tip is set audyysey on "FLAT" not "REFERENCE" on the receiver audio menu.. u will be happy with results
@@andrewhoward4570 u need the app in order to do this.. just limit room correction applied on the speakers to about 1 khz.. the "flat" and "reference" mode is in receivers menu itself under audio/audyssey/multex32 - flat or reference... hope that helps
My first AVR was a Denon 740h. I used it in 2 channel and hooked up a Denafrips Ares 2 to it for music. I was in audiophile heaven. Denon make great products if you are into HT and music.HDMI rules!!!!
I am not sure why there are multiple HDMI inputs on receivers. One or two E-ARC ports to get the sound from the TV to the receiver is all I need. Let the TV do the video switching and let the receiver do the sound.
That's all well and good - if your TV has eARC. Mine does not, even though it's a decent 2020 model. So the receiver ports come in handy then. Otherwise I'd be stuck with compressed surround sound capped at around 1 mbit/s, until I swap out the TV.
Audio delay is the answer. I'm having an LG CX and during movies the delay is not a problem. But if you for example use it for gaming, in game mode the tv produces audio delay compared to the instant response of picture. Hooking up the console or PC through an AVR the problem is solved.
Andrew, you feel like one of my old audiophile friends, wish I had found your review of the Denon960 before I bought it. Was waiting on it to arrive when I ran across your review, which I hoped was being ungenerous at the time. As it turned out you were right on the mark with your assessment, much to my chagrin. Now I'm wishing I had researched more thoroughly. I owned and had been around Denon in the past, trusted them, so i didn't scrutinize as I should have. Thanks for your review.....wanna buy a 960 cheap?? lol
I Had 2 Denon receivers over the last few years. The X3400 and the the X4500. I would have kept them except for the dialog issues when listening to movies. It was very soft on both receivers and couldn't hear it well especially in quiet scenes. The receivers don't have dialog boost so you end up either cranking up the centre channel or turning up the volume. Anyway, I ended up getting the Yamaha 1080 and it's much better for me.
I had the same problem with my X4300H but only with the center channel speaker connected. Center channel volume was at 0db instead of 12db matching my other speakers, that resolved my soft or low dialog issue.
Love mine. I’m a convert from Yamaha, never thought I’d switch. Good price and great sound. Run all polls series Front consists of S55 and S30. Six S10 for surround and atmos.. audessy was a deal maker over my Yamaha. Had it for three month and run it 16 plus hours a day. Retired and a streaming addict.
For 5 or 8 dollars. I Downloaded DEREMOTE for Denon Marantz. Far better than the original app. Individual speaker mixer is a brilliant godsend. At the moment, only for APPLE IOS.
One thing i think the Denons have is a pre-out mode. So if you are going separates, it cuts power to the amps reducing distortion. (From what I understand) supposed to convert it into a more efficient preamp
My Yamaha RX-A1000 is solid with no issues, so after 10+ years I assumed I would upgrade to a new Aventage, like the A6A, to get Atmos and other modern features. But a brief, negative mention of the new Yamahas in this video caught my attention. I’ve looked for a video review on your channel of the new Yamahas but can not find one. What do I need to know about the Yamahas that is holding them back, and where else should I look? At under $2000. Thank you.
I absolutely hate mine. (bugged version). Got the external extra box to fix the bug, but guess what, it doesn't pass VRR. Bugs my system out once a day so I have to reset all my devices to get it running again. Get glitchy graphics sometimes, have to reset all devices. Headaches and headaches for $1,300 bucks. I doubt i will ever purchase Denon again.
Agree, I have the x2700h & am really frustrated with Denon. I have the glitched model also & the hdmi adapter kit you speak of & it sucks as well. Every time I change signals on TV via Xbox I get black screen with source box on screen
Nice review. I really like my x3700, I have recently changed to full Preamp mode and an external Emotiva A700 which took 2ch pure direct music and bass performance in movies to another level.
Hi Sam. I was thinking of doing that as well with my Yamaha 1080. Does the A700 absolutely bring the performance to another level? I run it in 7 channels.
@@daledrolet1332 I can't speak for the Yamaha, and depends on your speakers as to whether it has the power you need, but it made a noticeable improvement to my 5.1.2 system made up of large Jamo 6ohm towers/centre etc. Plenty of power for an average size room, and the headroom for bass gives the overall sound far more muscle and depth. I think it was worth it for the improvement in 2ch music performance alone. If you can pickup the A700 on clearance now that the A7 is out, you can save a lot.
leaning towards the denon for the separate sub's but.. (I Have an older Onkyo now which I love). My main issue with movie audio has always been the speech/vocal though, I hate having to pump the center for hear wtf they are saying. pumping the center takes away from the surround experience imo, since the center is now much louder then the rest of the speakers. I would also like an avr that packs a punch on lower volumes, I have tinnitus and it drives me nuts, so I must keep below harmful sound levels. Not an easy choice on a budged..
I have tinnitus too, and it's a very frustrating affliction, especially when you're chasing sound perfection from your AV! 'Is that humming coming from system or my head?' 😂
For me, more HDMI 2.1 ports is probably the most important. I have the PS5, Series X and a RTX 30 series PC so need this from an AVR. The other reason is my LG CX only passes through PCM and Dolby (but seems to struggle with passing through DD+) so I really don’t want to use the TV’s HDMI ports for anything. I’m sure by time they sort out the HDMI 2.1 issues we will be on 2.2! As for the dual sub outputs - these AVR’s take up so much space I would want this feature as well, so I’ll have both!
@@denniszhu7957 I ended up buying the RX-A6A and am very happy with it. It actually has more features than I need at the moment but it’s good to know I can expand my set up or try new things with it. I think Andrew will have a review of the similar A8A soon so it will be good to hear what he and Kristi make of it.
I own this receiver, and I wish I didn't. Wouldn't work right with 8k tv until I received the adapter kit, which took months. Now I have the adapter kit, game mode doesn't activate through it and it randomly ceases working and have to reboot the whole system. It's an absolute nightmare. Wish I'd waited for onkyo RZ50
One point to bring up is that you can run external amps off of the X3700H for all your home theatre channels in case you want more quality power. Not all of its competitors offer this at this price point, including Denons' own X2700H that sits right below the X3700H in the line-up. As for your question, the pre outs, and the dual sub outs are huge to me. I own an older Denon and will most likely upgrade to another Denon when it's time because of the long term durability I have enjoyed. Thanks for the great content Andrew and Kristi.
Sadly, the 3700h doesnt covert analog video signals to hdmi.... i need that because is important to me, because i love laserdiscs and old gen stuff like old gaming consoles... and the denon 3700h doesnt conviert to hdmi signal like the old 3600 or the superior 4700h...
I'm in week 2 of X3700 ownership and am very happy. I was leaning towards an Onkyo RZ50 but they are nowhere to be found. I've been been very pleasantly surprised with the Denon. I have a weird setup, Front LR are Klipsch Cornwall IV & Hersey IV center channel w/ SVS ultra surrounds. 2 speed woofer 10s are coming imminently, can't wait...
Some great articulation …but I’m still waiting for someone (anyone really) to accurately describe the Denon signature sound. I have the X4700H (upgraded from a 12 year old Onkyo) and love the coloration, but I’ve yet to hear it described accurately! So come on Andrew, give your thesaurus some exercise and tell me exactly what I’m hearing …please. I’d also like to hear your view on what the 4700 (the real sweet spot in the X series range) brings to the table over and above the 3700! I’m not talking specs here! I’d like yours and Kristi’s subjective opine vs the equivalent Onkyo and Yamaha AVR. 🙏
Denon signature sound tends to be: solid, strong, bass has weight, somewhat warm sound, detailed but not bright, not sibilant, has authority, sound has power. Other hifi brands may have greater imaging.
@@dr.anthonyforgione4253 I totally agree with your description. It certainly reproduces more mellow highs than my old Onkyo, and while the bass is definitely fuller, it doesn’t extend quite as well and appears to get a little choked in my ported sub boxes. I really don’t want to buy sealed boxes to get a smidgen more drive, so perhaps I can find a happy medium by adjusting the sub frequency curve in the Audyssey app. Thank you.
I took a chance on this amp 10 months ago - as it was I could actually find with dual subs and the ability to do 11 channels with an external amp. (Which I’m running 7.4.2 with klipsch & SVS subs) Overall I’m happy. It’s not perfect for 2 channel - but I’m really enjoying music in spacial audio (atmos) and the surround processing is good.
I just purchased the DENON AVR-X6700H. This model is made in JAPAN, the sound and build quality are superb. The serial number is over 70000 so it has the upgraded HDMI ports. I'm using dual SVS SB-16 Ultra subwoofers.
Good review. The Denon X3700 and all the X series receivers have a killer preamp mode and completely customizable amp channels. The receiver in preamp mode beats out a lot of much more expensive processors in distortion performance. You can check a full set of measurements at Audio Science Review.
I have loved onkyo for years, but now with the hdmi issue I really didn't want to buy another one. I do like the power onkyo has and I like how they sound.
These early HDMI 2.1 boards are a fraud! $100 for the first one who can get 4K, 60hz, ALLM, HDR 10-bit, and VRR all working at the same time from my Xbox One X, connected to the 8K or game input on my SR8015 which then uses main 1 output to my Samsung Q8FN. This includes you too SU! I can only get ALLM mode working out zone 2. No idea why, TV picks up the input as a AVR and not game system when using main 1 and main 2. If I enable VRR and use main 1, main 2 or zone 2 out, it’s game over with random black screens else resolution errors. The resolution errors occur if I incorporate the “fix box” into the chain. Do I need a fix box for my fix box? 4K, 60hz, HDR, ALLM, and VRR works perfectly fine when the Xbox is directly connected to the TV. Help!!! Anyways, as always, nice review! Good to know the substitute DACs for the AKMs are working well.
Thanks for the review. Unfortunately I had to get the denon avc-3700x(EU version) because the new avrs from onkyo and Pioneer are not available in Germany/EU and there is absolutely no information when they are going to be available. When I hear music with audyssey on I can hear the sizzling( emphasized drum snare and hat), but as soon as I put the device on direct or pure direct, it is gone. It was important to me that the avr has dsd capabilities over hdmi, which denon 3700x has. It's a very good device and I am enjoying it.
First of all, thanks for great review (and your all other videos too!) I have been looking either upgrade my set up (5 b&w m-1 + b&w ASW610+Yamaha RX-V485) with new receiver OR sell it second hand and buy soundbar solution sony A7000/Sonos arc full setup. Onkyo is hard to get byt where I live so currently I have an order placed on an Denon x2700h (have been looking on 3700 as well, but for my 5.1 set up i think it would be overkill)..... then this video shows up :) so now I am trying to convince my self that it is worth adding in extra 400$ ... My mind is jumping back and forward between these options, and your videos have been a great source of information. big thanks!
The fact you said the speakers help make the receiver better. Shouldn't it be the other way around? I have the onkyo tx rz 3100. That makes any speaker come to life.
Really liked this video guy's, and just upgraded to this avr from a Yamaha HTR-6250. This avr is definitely superior to the older Yamaha, but one feature the Yamaha had, was that I could save my audio speaker levels for listening to music or watching video...the Denon doesn't have that handy feature (too bad).
Why would you care about a receivers video capability? Why would you not plug all your hdmi connections into a calibrated tv and run one hdmi cable down to the receiver via earc? For example, would it not be better to plug my consoles and blu ray player into my lg c2 then run one hdmi cable down to the 3700 via earc? Or do tv’s compress that sound in a way before it gets to the avr?
I hear ya, but some of us got an xbox, playstation, Neo Geo, Sega Dreamcast, Nintendo Switch, and some other things. With a Samsung Q80T, there aren't enough HDMI inputs for this, and also the Samsung Q80T only has one HDMI port that will work with HDR. I have several HDR capable devices and everything runs from the Dennon X4300H into the ARC port on the Samsung. It's a crazy setup, but it works well.
Because the ARC port on my Sony 4K doesn't support LPCM 7.1 back to the receiver from my PS4. It wants to downmix everything sent out of the ARC to Dolby Digital+. I've learned to never trust a display for audio.
This video is exactly what I needed. Comparing the latest receivers to their counterparts in their respectable price range really helped me make an informed purchase!
I dont know why they rate in at 105 watts when I have a denon from the 90s there is no comparison in power the new receivers are gutless when comes to power 90s and 80s
Well I just ordered my first Denon receiver ever, the avr-x3700 upgrading from a Yamaha rx-v781. I was debating between the Onkyo trz50 and the Denon avr-x 3700, the independent sub outs did it for me plus I heard of a lot of switching issues with Onkyo trz50. But I like to say I appreciate you and Christy's reviews of products and keep up the great work 👍
The sound characteristics alluded to, are they are more related to the preamp section, the amp section or the whole thing? I'm using the X4700H with multi-channel power amps. Factoring in the cost of the amps the whole thing is more price comparative to the Rotel and NAD receivers. Curious how a Denon with separate power amps would compare. BTW the X3700H measures better than the NAD on a certain website (I'm sure you know the site I'm referring to it). I would consider the NAD if it had better reliability - preferred Anthem's ARC to Audyssey and expect likewise with Dirac. I've owned both in the past and I'm hesitant to buy NAD again, especially with the upgrade modules, which are so overpriced that one is simply better off buying a new receiver.
I just moved from x4700h to Arcam avr20 and couldn’t be happier. Arcams stereo performance matches my lyngdorf 1120 integrated amp for 2k. Also in many many other aspects it trumps Denon from on screen displays, temperature ,power or amp quality
@@whitecrowuk575 Arcam isn't know for its reliability. I've had NAD and it gave me problems and its "upgradeability" isn't worth it considering the price of the upgrade modules - just buy a new receiver. I've had an Anthem (i.e. 720) and it was good. I've had other Denons without issue. I would only consider NAD if its reliability was better or Anthem if it was slightly cheaper and its teething pains have been dealt with, although I don't like the requirement to pay additional funds for 8K functionality that is currently available in mass market receivers. I've owned Arcam (separates) in the past and was not sufficiently impressed with its sound in comparison to the Denon I had at the time. I'm generally happy with the Denon, but I wish it would dump Audyssey for Dirac. In my experience the best receiver sound wise was the Anthem with ARC vs the Denon and the NAD with Audyssey. But the cost and limited functionality along with the reliability issues don't warrant the cost of a $3,000 plus receiver for a cheaper Denon with equal or more functionality that might not sound as good. I get more enjoyment from a piece that provides me good sound vs a piece of kit that promises me great sound but is in for repair or upgrade or has bugs preventing me from enjoying movies and music. Enjoy your Arcam while I do slightly wish I still had the Anthem - got rid of the Anthem for several reasons, one of which was not addressed in the 740 version while the 1140 does address the issue but is not worth the price of admission for me.
@@johnpereira6934 Anthem is very nice looking AVR for sure and did consider but was split like you between 740 and 1140 again latter price was bit too much and as a sort of boutique AVR (Arcam included) plagued with bugs. When it comes to Arcam they had absolutely terrible launch of their AVR line last year - dreadful - I did test SA30 lately and certain things annoyed me so much i've retuned it after few days even though it was discounted heavily. But then decided to give another shot with AVR20 - start was not the best with the update over the air taking 2.5h! But now im finally satisfied - matched stereo performance against Lyngdorf 1120 (integrated amp for 2k). Comparing to Denon apart from stereo performance - its better in all respects - no hum from preouts when connecting to external amp, better TV menus, faster switching between different sources (Denon was super super slow to the point had to plug my ATV into TV), obviously Dirac with bass management, runs cool no external ventilation needed (airfinity can be quite loud), useful and more stable app as well as web config possible - all in all great receiver so far and great audio - and surprisingly finally no issues (well except for OTA updates).
I bought a single large sub, so I prefer next gen HDMI ports over a multi sub output. I put my money where my mouth is and bought the RZ50. I'm genuinely impressed with how good it sounds. Thanks for putting it on my radar
I’m on my second Denon receiver now. Can’t remember what the first one was but it was a flagship model when I bought it like 15 years ago. Was great but I needed more inputs, so I updated to a 2300w like 4 years ago when I needed more HDMI inputs and the 2300 had the most I could find for under $1000. I’ve been very satisfied with it.
3000 series is the sweet spot for the lineup imo. Honestly until Onkyo came out of nowhere with dirac products this was the product to beat. It's the textbook definition of a good product as per it's measurements (think both Gene and Amir measured). Also worth knowing they advertise it as doing 70% of it's 2 channel full range wattage with 5 channels driven. As for your question I think independent subwoofer pre-outs can be important but depends on how dedicated you are to using getting the best from them. You can get better performance manually aligning everything in REW with a umik-1 assuming you have something like a miniDSP 2x4/2x4hd or variable phase dials like your SVS. However not everyone is going to want to put in the extra effort like I have to get my HSU vtf2-mk5s playing their best on my Denon x1400h. In my experience Audyssey lacks in setting up the subwoofer to main crossover region which is one reason why I think most people prefer dirac but I can't confirm myself...yet. Honestly I think for my upgrade timeline the Onkyo rz70 is what I'll end up with assuming rumors are true (auro3d andDirac Live bass control).
Thank you so much, Andrew and Kristie, for your detailed reviews of Onkyo RZ50, Yahama RX-A8A, and Denon X3700H. I have been debating which one of these to pick for my 7.2.2 home theater. Looks like Onkyo RZ50 wins the battle hands down. Now the question becomes how long I have to wait before I can get my hands on the RZ50.
@@eriklowney Great idea. I heard the rumored RZ70 will have 11 amplified channels, 2 independent sub outs, and Auro 3D, plus DIRAC. If that's the case, it would be a most FLAWLESS AV receiver to date.
Good review and I applaud your courage to mention a long time ago that the Denon video boards were bad. And it's a problem they had for a very long time I had a Denon AVR 1312 purchased in 2016. I used it in a regular stereo setup never bothered to use the video pass-through. Then two years three months later decided to cook up a TV in my stereo room realizing it no longer worked. I called the Denon talk to their technical support they said too bad so sad. I used it as a stereo amp for another year and I will never own another Denon.
Not really, Denon just announced their AVS-3 box which is a 3 port HDMI 2.1 switcher. With that, you’ll have three 4K 120hz ports… should be around $200.
If it’s an add on what’s the point it’s not built in to that receiver natively and if it cost extra and does not come with the unit by default it still a deal breaker sadly
I bought one a few days ago. Will pair it with three Kali LP-6 active speakers, as LCR, two Yamaha HS50 active speakers as surrounds, and a XTZ 12.17 Edge subwoofer. Should make for an awesome beginner's budget surround system. 😊
I just purchased the AVR-X3700H, Is there a way I can setup Audyssey for movies and music and have it automatically switch depending on the input I choose? Or do I have to switch Audyssey Manually? if so I'm getting rid of it for example have Audyssey 1 for movies when I am watching apple TV input and Audyssey 2 (2.1 channel) when I am listening to the CD input, thanks in advance
@@andrewrobinsonreviews thanks man, useful info. I'm a long time onkyo fan, hoping they are working back toward a seat at the big boys table. I've never used dirac, but more than willing to try it out
I own an Onkyo Integra TX-DS838. that I bought from circuit city in 1999. this receiver will blow any new Denon. including the X4700H. although it doesn't have any HDMI inputs and has no WIFI. I used an optical cable from Samsung Q90T. and you can"t beat the quality of sound. it has a total of 480 watts RMS. it's too powerful to use all channels. it's hooked up to 4 Polk Audio Tower speakers + Center.
For music listening, the Auro3D upmixing is worth upgrading to at least the X4700h, it sounds so much more natural than the dolby or DTS upmixing to me.
