Denon 3910 Owners Thread [Text View] - Page 21

rahivictory

10-30-05, 03:21 PM

bhollis

10-30-05, 04:33 PM

Dear Bhollis,

Thanks for the excellent reply. SSE to me, always appears a bit of shimmering or edge effect usually at the transition between something bright and the rest of the image.

As for macroblocking, you'd recognize it for sure. Basically it is like seeing pixelation but the pixels are very large like 1 - 2 sqaure inches.

I think I'm gravitating towards this DVD player, the only thing that is holding me back now is cost.

I'd be interested if anyone could offer best places to find this player as inexpensively as possible...

Rahi

Rahi,

All the authorized dealers pretty much stick to MSRP--at least with their advertised price. And you're taking your chances with the e-tailers. I initially ordered a 3910 from one of the e-tailers who assured me the unit was not gray market and was in a factory sealed box. When I got it, I found that the serial numbers had been removed from the unit and the box. Sent it back and decided to buy from an authorized B&M dealer. After some dickering, I got the authorized dealer knock off around $400 from MSRP.

If you're thinking about the 3910 and are concerned about the cost, I'd recommend you also take a hard look at the 2910. Very similar features and perfomance at about half the price. (No Denon Link, though.) Another option for a good low-cost DVD player seems to be the OPPO.

Good luck.

bucky63

10-30-05, 04:53 PM

DAMCB

10-30-05, 06:01 PM

I read back a few posts that they were up to release "D". Not sure what release is shipping with new units now though. Any new owners get a unit with "C" or "D"?
I just purchased a 3910 a few hours ago, checked the firmware and found the following: ESS-6609-D, MAKE DAY 719D, DRV-030825, SYSTEM 6767-5, DSP 770, C 2004102B. The unit has a June 05 build date, with the following serial #5068410***. I don't know if this is the latest release or not, and if it will pass SACD on the D-Link. I thought that I could swap out my 2910 with the new 3910 this afternoon while HRH was out shopping, but the new player has a 1 3/8" larger height and hits a brace at the rear of the stand below the TV. Sh*t!!!!. I guess we get busted no matter how sneaky we try to be.

JohnGZ28

10-30-05, 06:07 PM

I guess we get busted no matter how sneaky we try to be.

:D

DAMCB

10-30-05, 06:54 PM

Has anyone notice audio drops when using a Gefen HDMI switcher (in my case the 2 way switcher) with the 3910?

I notice my 3910 suffers with audio drops when then Gefen switcher is active (powered up) and the display either off or connected to the other source. The only way the audio drops stop is to either disconnect the HDMI or make sure the gefen switcher is not powered up at all.

I might have to try getting a DVI to HDMI cable and use the DVI outs of the 3910 or try a DVI switcher.
I have used a Gefen 2x1 DVI switcher with my TW HD cable box and the 2910 player with no problems for over a year. I found that the Gefen switcher could be powered over the DVI cable connection with the other components, and unplugged the Gefen power supply. You might want to try this. I run all the video directly to the display, and all of the audio to the AVR 3805, with the exception of a single single S-Video cable out for set up. I know that this won't solve your HDMI audio problems, but it might allow your system to work while the industry works out the HDMI/HDCP/component issues. Good luck!

bucky63

10-30-05, 07:40 PM

I have used a Gefen 2x1 DVI switcher with my TW HD cable box and the 2910 player with no problems for over a year. I found that the Gefen switcher could be powered over the DVI cable connection with the other components, and unplugged the Gefen power supply. You might want to try this. I run all the video directly to the display, and all of the audio to the AVR 3805, with the exception of a single single S-Video cable out for set up. I know that this won't solve your HDMI audio problems, but it might allow your system to work while the industry works out the HDMI/HDCP/component issues. Good luck!

Thanks DAMCB,

I found your method is the only way that even lets me use my HDMI switcher. I have two limitations though...

One is I can't listen to music and watch TV at the same time because the switch is powered on when the DirecTV box is on and the other is I have to leave my DirecTV box on when watching a movie which causes the display of the DirecTV box to stay on.

I guess I should have bought the DVI switcher...

BuckNaked

10-30-05, 08:19 PM

I thought that I could swap out my 2910 with the new 3910 this afternoon while HRH was out shopping, but the new player has a 1 3/8" larger height and hits a brace at the rear of the stand below the TV. Sh*t!!!!. I guess we get busted no matter how sneaky we try to be.

Oh what a tangled web we weave, when we practice to deceive......

DAMCB

10-31-05, 09:34 PM

Thanks DAMCB,

I found your method is the only way that even lets me use my HDMI switcher. I have two limitations though...

One is I can't listen to music and watch TV at the same time because the switch is powered on when the DirecTV box is on and the other is I have to leave my DirecTV box on when watching a movie which causes the display of the DirecTV box to stay on.

I guess I should have bought the DVI switcher...
bucky63- Have you contacted Gefen support? I had problems with my first DVI switcher and the piece of cr*p Samsung 841 player I had. They were extremely helpfull, and were aware of all the compatability issues with their switchers and various components. They let me return the switcher and refunded all of the purchase price even though the problem was caused by HDCP issues with the Samsung. Since HDMI is backward compatible with DVI, you might ge able to use cable adapters from Monster or Audio Quest to use DVI inputs/outputs with your existing cables.

bucky63

10-31-05, 11:06 PM

I bought the HDMI switcher used so I don't think Gefen would take it back now.

I ordered another DVI to HDMI cable for the 3910 off of ebay for $12. Now the HDMI switcher is controlling two DVI inputs to one DVI output... Hey, maybe I should have found a DVI switcher instead! But noooooo, I had to think I was buying the more compatable switcher for future source purchases. Well maybe it will work out in the end.

I'll try and call Gefen and see what they say about it.

DAMCB

11-01-05, 01:59 AM

Oh what a tangled web we weave, when we practice to deceive......
BN- your right!

BuckNaked

11-02-05, 08:39 PM

Well, I just got mine out of the box, set up, and playing.

Demo'd "Kill Bill 1" (Japanese version) DVD and it was playing fine until one scene when it just froze up. Had the classic stop/freeze of a bad or very dirty disc, so I took it out cleaned it and put it back in.....feeze frame in the exact spot. I couldn't FF or skip by it.

Mind you, I just got this disc a week ago from Japan and it has played fine in my Sony NS-900V. I also tried it in my $59 WalMart DVD player and it worked fine there too.

Has anyone else experienced this? Do you think I just got a defective unit?

DAB

11-03-05, 12:37 PM

I have a PanRP82, -getting a pio5060 soon. and wanted HDMI_to_HDMI
I understand from a PQ the RP82 should work ok.
But i want to play SACD and want to have only two eq's in the living room/
Denon 3803 and a SACD/DVD player.
I am not so concern about BR/HD future horizon- it's still 5 yrs away for me...
the $~1200 price tag will hurt but doAable.
I have heard the PIo79avi dvd player maybe as good.
one issue here is the size of the 3910. i wanted to have a smaller foot print less impac in the living room{ small}. {other eq in closet under the living room)
I guess what i am asking is this 3910 really that good of a machine?
pro= good HDMI PQ- SACD

cons: $$$$$ and large
db

Ralph Potts

11-03-05, 01:26 PM

Greetings,

Since you have posed this question in the 3910 owner's thread you should stand by for feedback that is positive for the most part.

I guess I will start.

The 3910 is certainly worth the money in terms of it's overall performance as a music player and a video player. I have mine connected to a Sony HS51 front projector via HDMI on a 92" screen. Picture quality is excellent. The 3910 is the 3rd DVD A/SACD machine I have owned. It is by far the best of the units I have had.

In terms of size and cost those are issues you will need to weigh. It is certainly smaller than your Denon receiver and a little larger than a " regular " DVD player.

Best of luck.

Regards,

ezirl

11-03-05, 01:59 PM

Ok, I am a complete newbie and I need some help with my Home theatre setup!
I know this is not the normal area to post this kind of question but since I have the 3805/3910 combo I figured this would be a no-brainer for you guys.

This is what I have:
Receiver – Denon 3805
DVD – Denon 3910
Monitor – Hitachi 50VF820

My Hitachi has…
2 HDMI (in)
2 Component (in)
2 S-video (in)
4 A/V (in)
1 A/V w/ S-Video (out)
1 Optical Digital (out)

I plan to go with a cable card so I wont have to worry about a set-top box.
The final item was delivered today and I plan to set everything up this weekend.

I appreciate any advice you can give me.

Regards

ssabripo

11-03-05, 02:20 PM

BillP

11-03-05, 02:58 PM

You may also want to consider analog interconnects from the 3910 to the 3805 for high res audio (since I believe the DACs are better in the 3910 than the 3805).

ezirl

11-03-05, 09:24 PM

Thanks guys

The 3805 dosent have HDMI

ajkelly

11-03-05, 10:59 PM

pawrampe

11-04-05, 07:01 AM

Ralph Potts

11-04-05, 08:44 AM

Hello all,

Another newbie here. Picking up my Denon 3910 tomorrow. Excited to get things hooked up. Here's what I recently purchased:

Denon 3806 receiver
Denon 3910 DVD player
Sony HS-51 projector
Stewart Firehawk 110 dia. screen (comes tomorrow as well)
B and W speakers (600 series w/ a 700 series sub)
Sony 715 DVD/hardrive recorder

i was curious if anyone has the same set up. Would any one comment on how they have there system hooked up. whats the sweet spot for sitting/how far back was the projector was mounted/how far below the ceiling was the projector mounted (my theater room is 27 x 16 with 7' 10' ceiling height).
any thoughts or recommendations would be very much appreciated.
any HDMI switching issues?
any Denon link issues?

regards,

Alan

Greetings,

Alan, it may be difficult to find someone who has the same setup that you do. I can comment on the HS51 and 3910 pairing though. I have my 3910 connected to my HS51 via HDMI with the 3910 set to output 720p Y CR,CB. Image quality is superb. I am using a 92" Dalite High Contrast Cinemavision screen. I have two seating rows in my room. The first is 12 feet from the screen and the sceond is 16 feet. No problems with screen door.

My projector is flush ceiling mounted using a Chief RPA 2131 mount. The projector is mounted roughly 11 feet from the screen. My room is 14 X 24 with an 8 foot ceiling.

Regards,

dedwards

11-04-05, 09:31 AM

BuckNaked

11-04-05, 09:32 AM

Any past owners of the Sony DVP-NS975V, and now current 3910?

I am trying to determine how much of a video and audio difference there is. Even a B-Stock unit is about $600 more, and before I spend that I was hoping to get a comparison.

Thanks,I'm not familiar with the capabilities of the '75, but I just upgraded from the DVP-NS900V . From my perspective, the big difference is DVD-Audio. That was the main driver for me to upgrade, that and the region-free capabilities. I enjoy watching R2 DVDs, and now I don't have to worry about where I get my DVDs: Japan, UK, China....NTSC or PAL, it plays 'em all.

I just got my 3910 two days ago, but one big difference I have noticed is the degree of video calibration needed to optimize the player. With my 900, I could just use my eyes to calibrate the picture on my display. Now I have get the DVE or Avia disc in order to optimize the settings. The black areas are just devoid of all detail (black crush? I know there is a term for it).

As for audio, I love the D-Link connectivity with my 3805. SACD and DVD-A sound absolutely amazing. I demo'd the new Talking Heads hi-rez box set last night and I was blown away. Then, Avalon, Boys & Girls, DSOTM SACDs all performed exceptionally, although I didn't A/B with my 900, which is quite a SACD machine in its own right.

I guess for me it's the features and functionality that pushed me over. I really love my Sony, but the promise of DVD-A, multi-region DVDs, AL-24 Processing Plus, and D-Link were too strong. I also feel that HD is a year or two out, and I really am quite happy watching DVDs at 480p on a 42" plasma. Hope this helps.

pepar

11-04-05, 09:50 AM

Hello all,

Another newbie here. Picking up my Denon 3910 tomorrow. Excited to get things hooked up. Here's what I recently purchased:

Denon 3806 receiver
Denon 3910 DVD player
Sony HS-51 projector
Stewart Firehawk 110 dia. screen (comes tomorrow as well)
B and W speakers (600 series w/ a 700 series sub)
Sony 715 DVD/hardrive recorder

i was curious if anyone has the same set up. Would any one comment on how they have there system hooked up. whats the sweet spot for sitting/how far back was the projector was mounted/how far below the ceiling was the projector mounted (my theater room is 27 x 16 with 7' 10' ceiling height).
any thoughts or recommendations would be very much appreciated.
any HDMI switching issues?
any Denon link issues?

regards,

Alan
Close, but no cigar for me. I'm using the 3910 with a Sony HS20 firing onto a 92" wide 16:9 Stewart Firehawk w/THX Microperf. (My pre/pro is an IR RDC-7.) While both the pj and Denon support HDMI, I am using DVI. My STB-DVR, a SA8300HD, has only HDMI - for digital video - but I "adapt" it to DVI with a simple cable and switch it and the 3910 external to the RDC-7 with a DVI switcher. I output 720p from the 3910 and the picture from the 3910 is gorgeous. (The true hi-def sigal from the cable box is STUNNING.) Properly set up, you will be knocked out by your DVD/pj combo. A fellow HT nut had an HS20 and moved up to the HS51 after a "fortuitous" lightning strike. The blacks are to die for by themselves. When you factor in the price, it becomes a screaming value.

I have two rows or seats, the rear on a 12" riser. The front row is about .9x screen width from the screen. The second row is at a distance of 1.4x screen width. The front row can be a bit overwhelming and, for me, the second row could be a foot or two closer. But hey, I wanted two rows!

DAMCB

11-04-05, 12:14 PM

Any past owners of the Sony DVP-NS975V, and now current 3910?

I am trying to determine how much of a video and audio difference there is. Even a B-Stock unit is about $600 more, and before I spend that I was hoping to get a comparison.

Thanks,
Hi pawrampe- I briefly owned two Sony 975 players, and returned both of them for QC problems. The first had a bent chassis even though the shipping box showed no damage, and the second developed a loose HDMI input socket which caused picture loss. The PQ was pretty good, but not what I wanted. The audio was good, but not great, and the unit wouldn't play DVD-Audio disks. I upgraded to a Denon 2910 for a year, and just purchased a 3910. IMO either player is a huge improvement over the Sony 975. I suggest that you A-B compare them with your favorite music and the HQV Benchmark DVD test disc.

bucky63

11-04-05, 12:28 PM

My personal opinion for the best audio when connecting the 3910 to the 3805 is to use the Denon Link for any M/C music or Movies and to use the 2-Channel analog outs for Redbook CDs, SACD and DVD-A stereo music.

I have to turn off the Denon Link in the setup of the 3910 for Alpha 24 to be active in the DVD player when playing back CDs and DVD-A.

Listening to 2-channel music through the analog outs is smoother and more alive sounding in my setup.

JasonColeman

11-04-05, 10:56 PM

Thanks guys

The 3805 dosent have HDMI
I'm sure that nobody here knew that...:rolleyes: I'm certain that Shervin was suggesting connecting your 3910 to your display with HDMI.

J.

BuckNaked

11-05-05, 12:56 PM

My personal opinion for the best audio when connecting the 3910 to the 3805 is to use....the 2-Channel analog outs for Redbook CDs, SACD and DVD-A stereo music.Bucky - Forgive me if this sounds like an ignorant question, but how could two channels provide you with the full spectrum of SACD or DVD-A? :confused:

Thanks.

JohnGZ28

11-05-05, 01:18 PM

My personal opinion for the best audio when connecting the 3910 to the 3805 is to use the Denon Link for any M/C music or Movies and to use the 2-Channel analog outs for Redbook CDs, SACD and DVD-A stereo music.

Bucky - Forgive me if this sounds like an ignorant question, but how could two channels provide you with the full spectrum of SACD or DVD-A? :confused:

Thanks.

I think he should have left off the "2-channel" and just said "analog outs"

overcast

11-05-05, 01:46 PM

Zen Traveler

11-05-05, 02:06 PM

I think he should have left off the "2-channel" and just said "analog outs"

Or he could have meant 2 channel SACD's--not all are "Multichannel." ;)

JohnGZ28

11-05-05, 02:16 PM

Or he could have meant 2 channel SACD's--not all are "Multichannel." ;)

Good point. My favorite SACD, Miles Davis: Sketches of Spain, is 2 channel.

BuckNaked

11-05-05, 02:52 PM

--not all are "Multichannel." ;)Hmmmm. All mine are multichannel. I sort of thought that was the point of SACD.

emmanuel_ramos

11-05-05, 02:59 PM

It is my hope that it is OK for me to post this request for help in this thread. If this is not the right place, please direct me.

I have a Denon 3910 which is connected via DVI to a BenQ PE8700.

Everything works great when the Denon is set to output at 480p. When I change it to 720p or 1080i, I get quite a bit of snow on the screen.

At first, I thought it was the projector so I sent it back and got it replaced for another projector. I just received it and I stil have the same issue with the snow on the screen.

Is the Denon 3910 defective? Anyone seen this issue before with this or any other combination? In reading through most Denon threads I do not see people having issues with the 720p or 1080i outputs.

Can someone help me figure this out?

Best regards,

Emmanuel

overcast

11-05-05, 03:00 PM

Hmmmm. All mine are multichannel. I sort of thought that was the point of SACD.
The point is high defintion audio. Multichannel is just marketing nonsense for HT people.

htguy1

11-05-05, 03:14 PM

Hi,

I listen to all my DVD-A and SACD as 2 channel. The reason is that if you have really good equipment, and a good recording you will get a much more natural expiereince via 2 channnel than the 5.1 mix. (My Snell JIV speakers seem to disappear and the sound field really does seem to be bigger that my room)

In my view:
1) The 5.1 mixes are so often overdone that it is distracting.
2) With all the sound from so many directionsyou miss the little nuances that make Hi-rez music so amazing. (The small echoes off the studio wall, the snapp of the pic on the guitar strings, the amazing "crackle" of the bow string as it moves acroos the violin string...)
3) To get teh above benefit the chain must be good to great, so you can just focus on front speakers and 2 channel setup, and switch between 5.1 or 7.1 setup and 2 channel stuff in the same room.

I hope this makes sense.

God bless...

Mark

Zen Traveler

11-05-05, 03:22 PM

Hmmmm. All mine are multichannel. I sort of thought that was the point of SACD.

I agree that's why I buy SACD's, but make sure you read the back and see "multichannel" on it before you make that assumption. ;)

Zen Traveler

11-05-05, 03:30 PM

Hi,

I listen to all my DVD-A and SACD as 2 channel. The reason is that if you have really good equipment, and a good recording you will get a much more natural expiereince via 2 channnel than the 5.1 mix. (My Snell JIV speakers seem to disappear and the sound field really does seem to be bigger that my room)

I have really good equipment and I prefer multichannel over 2 channel on the 40 disks I own.

The point is high defintion audio. Multichannel is just marketing nonsense for HT people.

Well, it appears we all have our opinions. ;) I prefer multichannel to 2 channel and I don't consider it nonsense.

I won't clutter up the DVD-3910 thread with my opinion on Multichannel vs 2 channel after this post. :cool:

overcast

11-05-05, 03:48 PM

Well I have really good equipment, and I prefer 2 channel. :)

BuckNaked

11-05-05, 05:35 PM

...make sure you read the back and see "multichannel" on it before you make that assumption. ;)How timely. I just received "Simple Minds Greatest Hits" SACD today in the mail, and guess what? 2.0 hi-rez stereo, no multichannel.

JBaumgart

11-05-05, 07:15 PM

DCIFRTHS

11-06-05, 01:31 AM

The thing I like best about my 3910 is its ability to play both SACD's and DVD-A's, using either analog or Denon Link, at such a high quality level. And yes I do prefer multi-channel assuming the disk's mix is done well. I've been selective with my purchases, and almost all of them sound fabulous in multi-channel. I just wish there was a better selection.

A while ago I purchased the multichannel Bat Out Of Hell album. It is the worst mix I have ever heard :mad: This is one of my favorite albums as I grew up with this music as a teenager.

Paradise By The Dashboard Light is particularly bad. I think I read somewhere that they lost some of the original tapes. This is definitely one case where they should have just done two channel , and left it at that.

I listened to the CD two times, and never again :mad:

pepar

11-06-05, 09:23 AM

Because a lot of people, would rather have hi quality 2 channel than the cheesy sound field effects most dvda and sacd have in muli. I don't play any of my SACD's in anything but 2 channel because it sounds stupid. When exactly do you have instrument sounds coming from any where except in front of you.
You can prefer 2-channel sound from SACD/DVD-A for any reason you want, but we're allowed to think your reasoning is silly, too. Elliot Scheiner and other masters of the studio console work with the artists to remix the multichannel masters into the new 5.1 mixes. There was no "original" performance that the stereo mixes were emulating - they came from the minds of the artists/emgineers/producers. And now the 5.1 mixes do the same. And what about Pink Floyd? They performed in quad, but the storage/playback technology at the time - vinyl records - were 2-channel. Do you think Dark Side of the Moon is cheesy?

Having said that, not all surround mixes are created equal. Some can be gimmicky. But to dismiss them all as stupid is just wrong. Read reviiews before buying.

DAMCB

11-06-05, 01:43 PM

Hi- I have to relocate my Denon 3805 receiver to a rack next to the TV and 3910, and turn it to face 90 deg. from the other components. Can I connect the room to room cables and pass IR commands for the 3805 through the 3910's sensor? I know that this would be to simple and cheap to work, but I thought I would ask anyway. Denon's RC-616 and RC- 617 IR system is to expensive to use, and SpeakerCraft's system requires sticking a small wired IR emitter over the remote sensor on the 3805.

JohnGZ28

11-06-05, 02:23 PM

pepar

11-06-05, 06:52 PM

If it sounds stupid in your system perhaps your system is not set up for it.

Go to a concert at the Kimmel Center in Philadelphia. You are immersed in sound when the orchestra is going full tilt. The sound is all around you not just in front of you. It's as if you're sitting right in the middle of the orchestra.
Ohmigod, sound coming at one from all directions. How novel!

JohnGZ28

11-06-05, 07:26 PM

Ohmigod, sound coming at one from all directions. How novel!

Novel????

At intermission I found the manager and told him how stupid it sounded. When I went to the Spice Girls concert all the sound was in front of me and the Philadelphia Philharmonic should sound the same.

He agreed with me and we pulled down about $500,000 worth of acoustic treatments in the 15 minute period. We couldn't get it all though so it sound like a bad SACD for the second half of the concert. :D

bucky63

11-07-05, 09:06 AM

pepar

11-07-05, 09:35 AM

Sorry for starting a 2-channel vs M/C discussion in the 3910 forum...

What I meant was when I listen to any 2-channel music I would rather use the 3910's DAC's over the 3805's. I use the Denon Link for any M/C music because I like using the Front Room EQ with my setup.
Perfectly understood! And much better than dismissing 5.1 as "stupid" like another poster.

bhollis

11-07-05, 11:31 AM

Sorry for starting a 2-channel vs M/C discussion in the 3910 forum...

What I meant was when I listen to any 2-channel music I would rather use the 3910's DAC's over the 3805's. I use the Denon Link for any M/C music because I like using the Front Room EQ with my setup.

I use the same setup, for the same reasons. Works very well for me. Seems a shame to let the 3910's DACs go to waste.

RowdyUSP40

11-08-05, 06:34 PM

Has anyone had any luck getting the latest and greatest firmware via Denon's site??

vthee

11-08-05, 07:02 PM

do they even post firmware on there website anymore?

RowdyUSP40

11-08-05, 07:15 PM

do they even post firmware on there website anymore?

Good question! I sure hope so... the wait time for them to send it is unacceptable.
I need an upgrade for my new player... It has ver. 6609-A :eek: :eek: Can ya believe that crap!! -A :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

Karma16

11-08-05, 08:58 PM

HI Folks,
This is my first post on AVS. Thank you all for such a nice site.

I am an owner of a 3910. I guess that qualifies me to comment here. I am new to current technology home theater. But I am very familiar with high end audio. My theater system is set up in my bedroom. I also have a formal listening room equipped with Audio Reseach, Mark Levinson, Martin Logan, etc. This is strictly a music system.

After reading this forum, I realized that I may have a unique setup for my 3910 so I would like to tell you about it. Audio quality is very important to me. For DVD use, I route the 3910 via the coax output through my 3805 to my Hitachi 42HDT52 TV. But for audio (mostly CD's) I use the 3910's analog 2 Ch output to a passive preamp which drives a Krell KVA-2250 power amp. Also input to the passive is the 3805's front left/right preamp output. Thus, I can switch the Krell between the 3910 (for audio) and the 3805 (for video).

All other speakers (except the sub) are driven from the 3805 amps. These are used only for video. The sub presented a problem because I wanted to be able to choose to drive it from the 3805's sub out or from the left/right output going to the Krell when the 3910 direct feed is selected. I solved this by drilling a few holes in the passsive's panels, installing a couple of RCA's, and added a switch. I can now switch the sub to either source.

The result of this modification is a dirct path from the 3910 analog outputs to the Krell when I have the system set up for audio. I can tell you the 3910 is wonderful CD player though not the best I have heard. Audio quality is outstanding. So is the the video performance. I'm very happy with this set up.

Sam S

11-08-05, 09:02 PM

Good question! I sure hope so... the wait time for them to send it is unacceptable.
I need an upgrade for my new player... It has ver. 6609-A :eek: :eek: Can ya believe that crap!! -A :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

Not sure if you're being sarcastic or not....Your player has a very recent firmware. 6609-A actually comes after 6609-1,-2,-5,-7,-9 et al.

RowdyUSP40

11-08-05, 10:54 PM

Not sure if you're being sarcastic or not....Your player has a very recent firmware. 6609-A actually comes after 6609-1,-2,-5,-7,-9 et al.

Thanks Sam, I did not know that. I thought it was 6609-A, 6609-B etc...
My understanding was we were up too -D or maybe even -E.

What rev do I need for the DL3 for SACD?? Or better yet do you know what's the latest?

Sam S

11-08-05, 11:08 PM

Thanks Sam, I did not know that. I thought it was 6609-A, 6609-B etc...
My understanding was we were up too -D or maybe even -E.

What rev do I need for the DL3 for SACD?? Or better yet do you know what's the latest?

Someone posted a few days back about a recent build 3910 with -D. However, there is no documentation about what changes it contains. The last official firmware you can download from Denon is -A. I believe DenonLink should be active with your unit if it came with -A. Does the DenonLink jack say 3rd on it? Or, is it covered with a sticker "S.E."?

BillP

11-09-05, 10:08 AM

ACtually, since July, the latest upgrade version from Denon has been B.

pepar

11-09-05, 11:20 AM

ACtually, since July, the latest upgrade version from Denon has been B.
Which you can skip if, like me, you do not use Denon Link.

RGrim

11-09-05, 04:39 PM

I currently have a DVD-3910, which if I'm not mistaken, is almost a year old. For safety purposes, lets say it's less than a year old. Anyways, I have yet to do a firmware update on it. I'm currently running a HDMI cable to my Miysubishi 1080p DLP television from the 3910. Without having to read all 169 pages of comments, could someone tell me what exactly the latest firmware update fixes or corrects. Thanks in advance.

Krazykaj

11-09-05, 04:59 PM

I'm not sure anybody yet fully knows what the actual latest firmware is, let alone what the actual fixes/updates/upgrades are . . . :(

What firmware do you currently have?

Cheers
KJ

RowdyUSP40

11-09-05, 06:05 PM

Someone posted a few days back about a recent build 3910 with -D. However, there is no documentation about what changes it contains. The last official firmware you can download from Denon is -A. I believe DenonLink should be active with your unit if it came with -A. Does the DenonLink jack say 3rd on it? Or, is it covered with a sticker "S.E."?

"S.E."

I will do the -B from http://oldusa.denon.com/support/upgrades.asp when I get a chance.

Hooked up D-Link today and it works with the -A. Haven't tried SACD or DVD-A though.... I don't have any :( :( :( YET! I'm going shopping Friday to pick up a couple of dozen $$$$$$$ wee!!! One of the Fry's near me has a really good selection.

Will it pass SACD over D-Link with the -A firmware???

JohnGZ28

11-09-05, 06:19 PM

"S.E."

I will do the -B from http://oldusa.denon.com/support/upgrades.asp when I get a chance.

I wouldn't wait if I were you. Who knows how long that site is going to stay up. It takes less than 5 minutes to download. Grab it now, install it when you get a chance.

Just my .02

RowdyUSP40

11-09-05, 06:33 PM

I wouldn't wait if I were you. Who knows how long that site is going to stay up. It takes less than 5 minutes to download. Grab it now, install it when you get a chance.

Just my .02

Your right! Off to do it now...

Sam S

11-09-05, 07:15 PM

ACtually, since July, the latest upgrade version from Denon has been B.

Whoops, yep you're correct. It does get confusing keeping up with all this stuff!

RowdyUSP40

11-10-05, 01:11 AM

Couldn't resist.... got the upgrade done. Took a little doing though... had to download a trial version of Roxio because I couldn't get my RecordNow 7.3 to work. Then had to find a firmware update for my cd burner (my computer is only a couple months old... go figure!) for the Roxio to work.

After all that everything went smooth. :) :) Thanks to this forum and all the knowledgeable people here to make things like this possible for me.

VIDEOKNG

11-12-05, 12:48 PM

DAMCB

11-12-05, 07:30 PM

I'm currently waiting on a new 3910 which is backordered. I hope that when it arrives it will have the latest upgrades since I do use SACD and multi-channel speakers.

I understand when using the Denon Link 3 hooked to a Denon 3806, everything is taken care of for CDs/DVDs/SACDs/DVDAs through the link. No need for analog cables.

It will be nice to get rid of all my analog cables which were needed with my Denon 3300 a/v reciever and the Sony 775 SACD player and Panasonic RP91 DVDA player.
Hi- I recently purchased a 3910 with a mfr. date of 6/05, firmware version ESS-6609-D; it's serial number is 5068410***. I haven't installed it yet, but I verified that it passed SACD over D-Link III to my 3805 receiver. The manual shows the setup screen on page 35 that allows you to choose between D-III and D-II output. According to the info on Denon's old website(see link in several previous posts) all new units w/ the last 5 serial number digits of 10000 and higher have D-Link III enabled. You might want to check the S/N on the player when it arrives and return it unopened and/or exchange it for a later version. Good luck!

bhollis

11-12-05, 08:19 PM

I'm currently waiting on a new 3910 which is backordered. I hope that when it arrives it will have the latest upgrades since I do use SACD and multi-channel speakers.

I understand when using the Denon Link 3 hooked to a Denon 3806, everything is taken care of for CDs/DVDs/SACDs/DVDAs through the link. No need for analog cables.

It will be nice to get rid of all my analog cables which were needed with my Denon 3300 a/v reciever and the Sony 775 SACD player and Panasonic RP91 DVDA player.

It's true that with Denon Link 3 you don't need analog cables. You'll also be able to take advantage of your receiver's equalization capabilities. There is a downside to going digital versus analog, however: You bypass your 3910's lovely DACs (which I believe are better than the DACs in your 3806).

I decided to sort of split the difference with my 3910/3805 setup: Denon Link 3 for DVDs and most other situations, plus 2 analog cables for when I want top audio quality from my 2-channel CDs.

IwantmyTHX

11-12-05, 08:46 PM

You bypass your 3910's lovely DACs (which I believe are better than the DACs in your 3806).

How do the 3910's compare to the 4806's?

VIDEOKNG

11-12-05, 09:42 PM

So I just need to attach 2 audio cables from the 3910 to the 3806 to enable the 3806's DAC's when listening to 2 channel audio?

I need the DL3 for multichannel SACD/DVDA and DVD Video.

bhollis

11-13-05, 12:03 AM

So I just need to attach 2 audio cables from the 3910 to the 3806 to enable the 3806's DAC's when listening to 2 channel audio?

I need the DL3 for multichannel SACD/DVDA and DVD Video.

You've got it backwards. If you want to use the 3806's DACs, just use the Denon Link. That way, all your output from the 3910 is digital, and your 3806's DACs will do all the digital-to-analog conversion. If you want to take advantage of the 3910's DAC's, then you need to use the 3910's analog outputs. You can use all six analog outputs if you want to use the 3910's DACs for SACDs and DVD-Audio disks, or you can do what I did and just use the L and R analog outputs (plugged into the CD input on my 3805). With my configuration, if I select DVD as the source on my 3805, anything I listen to--SACD, DVD-A or standard CD--all comes to my 3805 via the Denon Link and is converted from digital to analog using the receiver's DACs. But if I'm interested in getting the best audio quality from a standard 2-channel CD, I switch the source on my 3805 to CD, in which case the receiver receives the signal via the 3910's analog outputs--in other words, via the 3910's DACs. I hope that's clear(?)

One caveat here. Unless you have some really good speakers and are at least a little anal about your audio, you probably won't notice much difference whichever way you go. To be honest, I'm not sure I notice much of a difference. But it does make me feel a little better knowing that, at least some of the time, I'm putting the 3910's DACs (for which I paid a premium, by the way) to some use.

bhollis

11-13-05, 12:06 AM

How do the 3910's compare to the 4806's?

Sorry, I don't know. I'm trying not to pay attention to the new Denon A/V receivers, since I really can't afford to start wanting one. My guess is that the 3910's and 4806's DACs are about on a par.

bhollis

11-13-05, 12:44 AM

Sorry, I don't know. I'm trying not to pay attention to the new Denon A/V receivers, since I really can't afford to start wanting one. My guess is that the 3910's and 4806's DACs are about on a par.

Actually, I just took a look at the specs on the 4806, and it looks like it has the same audio DACs as the 3805. My understanding is that the DACs in the 3910 are superior to the DACs in the 3805, which means that they would also seem to be superior to the DACs in the 4806. Someone please chime in and correct me if I'm wrong about this.

BuckNaked

11-13-05, 12:51 PM

If you want to take advantage of the 3910's DAC's, then you need to use the 3910's analog outputs....you can do what I did and just use the L and R analog outputs (plugged into the CD input on my 3805)....if I'm interested in getting the best audio quality from a standard 2-channel CD, I switch the source on my 3805 to CD, in which case the receiver receives the signal via the 3910's analog outputs--in other words, via the 3910's DACs.If you go this route, do you need to turn off Denon Link in the 3910 set-up menu? I noticed that when I try your configuration, I don't get the AL 24 Plus light illuminating on my 3910. In my thinking, the 3910's DACs are not engaged unless this light is on. Thanks.

AnthemAVM

11-13-05, 01:02 PM

Now that Audioenvy is gone, I thought it might be a cool idea to create a geographical list of owners.
I found a cool tool that incorporates Google maps to show your location Try it out, it's free. Just thought it might fun and informative.
Go to the map!
Let me know what you guy's think.
Michael

http://www.frappr.com/denon3910

bhollis

11-13-05, 01:49 PM

If you go this route, do you need to turn off Denon Link in the 3910 set-up menu? I noticed that when I try your configuration, I don't get the AL 24 Plus light illuminating on my 3910. In my thinking, the 3910's DACs are not engaged unless this light is on. Thanks.

We're bumping up against the limits of my knowledge here, but I don't think you need to turn off Denon Link in this situation. Even with Denon Link enabled, the 3910 still outputs analog from the L and R terminals (see page 35 of the owner's manual). So there should be no need to disable Denon Link in order get analog 2-channel output from the 3910. Moreover, if I wasn't getting analog output from the 3910 into my 3805's CD input, when I switch to CD as my source on the 3805, I wouldn't hear anything. Finally, when I have DVD selected as my source, the 3805 indicates that the incoming signal is digital/Denon Link. But when I have CD selected as my source, the 3805 indicates that the incoming signal is analog. And as far as I know, that incoming analog signal can only be coming via the 3910's DAC's.

You raise a good question about the AL24 Plus indicator light, though. Not sure, but my guess is that this light is always off when Denon Link is enabled, and is always on when it's not.

Now for the $64K question: Do you hear any difference with my configuration when switching between DVD and CD as the source on your receiver? I like to think I do, but it's pretty subtle. If you don't hear any difference, then of course this is all much ado about nothing.

VIDEOKNG

11-13-05, 03:10 PM

I hope that's clear(?)

.

Very clear, thank you, now I've got it! :)

bucky63

11-13-05, 07:36 PM

Unless it is a programming error, if the 3910's AL24 light is not on the AL24 processor is not active. So, you do have to deactivate the 3910's Denon Link to activate the AL24 processing for the 3910's analog outs.

BuckNaked

11-13-05, 07:54 PM

...when I have CD selected as my source, the 3805 indicates that the incoming signal is analog. And as far as I know, that incoming analog signal can only be coming via the 3910's DAC's.

You raise a good question about the AL24 Plus indicator light, though. Not sure, but my guess is that this light is always off when Denon Link is enabled, and is always on when it's not.It makes sense that the analog signal is being processed through the 3910's DACs, but I would love to know why that AL24 light isn't on when the Denon Link is enabled, and if I'm not hearing everything I could. Obviously, you can't A/B as it requires a trip into the setup menu to turn D-Link on/off.

ssabripo

11-14-05, 08:58 AM

pepar

11-14-05, 09:13 AM

hehehehe.....added myself!

there is also a frappr account for SVS subwoofer owners! ;)
I looked at it, but passed because I think it is just another site gathering demographic information.

Dary

11-14-05, 06:34 PM

I just received my 3910 region free USA version. I´m a bit worried and hope someone here can help.
The unit has manufacture date June 2005 and S/N is above 10.000 but it DOESN'T have DL3 on the setup menu! (Back-plate also says DL3). The unit firmware is ESS 6609-5, Make Day 831. Certainly the region free service done by the vendor actually used an old firmware version. Now my questions:
1) Could this downgrade permanently damage the unit?
2) Can I use the 6609-B upgrade? (That is very difficult to answer. I saw a post about June 2005 units coming with -D firmware)
3) Some posts ago there is a link to UK forum where I downloaded -B upgrade. Is it ok for USA units?

Regards,
Dary

pepar

11-14-05, 06:41 PM

overcast

11-14-05, 07:45 PM

I looked at it, but passed because I think it is just another site gathering demographic information.

Yeh the matrix has you man :rolleyes:

Ferdinand77

11-14-05, 08:37 PM

pepar

11-14-05, 10:49 PM

Yeh the matrix has you man :rolleyes:
. . . i guess i should have taken the red pill . . .

VIDEOKNG

11-14-05, 11:07 PM

My local Denon dealer is still trying to track down a new 3910....they really do sell very well.

Just got my new HDMI cables in the mail today!

BillP

11-15-05, 04:00 PM

Hi guys,

Right now have the Denon 2200. Seriously considering either the 2910 or the 3910. 3910 a bit pricey. Anyhow, is there a big diff in sonics and video performance from the 2200 to the 2910 ? or is it better i hold off till prices drop to jump into the 3910 ?

tks.

Ferd
Audio is the same in the 2200 and 2910 if you use the player's DACs (they have the same audio DACs); the audio DACs are better in the 3910. For PQ, if you have a DVI/HDMI input on your display and don't have an MB problem, the 2910 and 3910 should be better than the 2200.

pepar

11-15-05, 04:34 PM

My local Denon dealer is still trying to track down a new 3910....they really do sell very well.

Just got my new HDMI cables in the mail today!
Dakmart in Florida is an AUTHORIZED DENON B-stock reseller with ten of them for sale on ebay.

tbg@home.se

11-18-05, 09:04 PM

Hia.

I want to upgrade my dvd to the newest firmware so that i can play sacd over denon link etc... but I am in Europe and have a region free player ... what firmware to use? where can i get it?

BTW anyone have a 3805, how do you upgrade the firmware in it?

Thanks.

/T

JohnGZ28

11-18-05, 09:40 PM

DigiPete

11-18-05, 10:08 PM

Rich Gibson

11-21-05, 11:13 AM

This is the magic point. No manufacturer can create something that is perfect with all other manufacturers products. Small differences in standards implementations, particularly when they are emerging standards, can create mismatches.

YMMV with the Samsung.

Perhaps the Oppo is a better combination with Samsung. :)

Forgive my butting in but the owner of a major private HT store here in the Washington DC area told me he dropped the entire Smasung line because of the constant repairs necessary for the Samsung DLP units. If the MB mentioned with the 3910 (BTW I just received my 3910 SDI modified from Pixelmagic..wonderful DVD player/SDI combo...utter horrid service from Pixel Magic in Hong Kong..they did not include radiation document and it was held by Customs for a week) and the Samsung involves a DLP Samsung, perhaps it's not the 3910.

This guy was pissed with the amount he has spent repairing the color wheel assembly on the Samsungs. I'f I'm off target please excuse my ignorance.

Rich

Codeman

11-21-05, 12:14 PM

Can any owners tell me how much the layer change delay is with the 3910? I currently have a 2900, and would like to upgrade, but I'm really spoiled by the complete lack of delay.

TIA!

pepar

11-21-05, 12:28 PM

Can any owners tell me how much the layer change delay is with the 3910? I currently have a 2900, and would like to upgrade, but I'm really spoiled by the complete lack of delay.

TIA!
"Secrets" (http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/cgi-bin/shootout.cgi?function=search&articles=all&type=DVD+Player&manufacturer=15&maxprice=0&deInt=0&mpeg=0) lists the 2900 at an amazing 0.0 seconds delay and the 3910 at .5 seconds. But that's the only specs at which the 2900 beats the 3910. It's not really a fair comparison beyond that. The 2910 is a fairer comparison.

Codeman

11-21-05, 01:05 PM

Thanks, pepar.

Krazykaj

11-21-05, 04:28 PM

Hi Codeman, :)

On some movies (25% of them maybe) I have noticed a 'split' second delay with the 3910 at the DVD layer change; otherwise I never really notice the layer changes on all the other DVD's. However, the 3910 is not completely layer-change-pause free . . .

But yeah, the 3910 is still pretty good IMO.
I too upgraded, from a 2200 originally, which had, and also spoiled me with, zero layer change pauses. So I was a bit annoyed with the tiny, occasional layer pauses in the 3910 with some DVD’s (especially for a player of its price/class, and also when lesser players even manage to not have the issue).
But as I said, it is only on some movies, and the other improvements I got with the 3910 in terms of sound and video far out-do my quirks with the layer changes :D

My thoughts . . .;)
Cheers
KJ

pepar

11-21-05, 05:24 PM

jjtoma

11-21-05, 06:59 PM

BillP

11-21-05, 08:17 PM

The 3910 audio DACS are better than the ones in the 3805, so for SACD or DVD-A, you'd be better off with the analog outs than Denon-link.

JBaumgart

11-21-05, 10:12 PM

Try them both, which won't cost you any more because the Denon Link cable comes with the player. Some of us here prefer its sound over analog, which can only be attributed to how much of an improvement the Auto EQ makes in your room vs. the difference in the DAC's. In a perfect or near-perfect listening environment, using the analog connection SHOULD sound better.

Codeman

11-22-05, 08:29 AM

pepar

11-22-05, 09:46 AM

Thanks, kj. I think I'm just going to have to get a 3910 and do a side-by-side. I sure do appreciate your comments! I try to get my mind made up before I make big purchases, but it's just not happening this time. I've been on the fence for months with this one. And I want off!

What bugs me is the presence of the lag on any player to start with. Buffering and caching have been a part of computers for decades. Even many portable and automotive CD players have good coding to handle skips. There is no excuse for stationary DVD players to have such problems. A few memory chips and some good software algorithms are all that's needed. Just a 1 second read-ahead buffer would fix this. Maybe there is a techical issue that makes it more difficult than it seems like it should be, but darned if I can imagine what that might be.

Awww.....I'm ranting about a pet peeve of mine, so I'll shut up.
If you look at the universe of benchmarked DVD players on Secrets (http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/cgi-bin/shootout.cgi?function=search&articles=all&type=&manufacturer=0&maxprice=0&deInt=0&mpeg=0), you will see ONLY TWO that have 0.0 layer change delay - the 2900 and 2200. All others are more; very few are .5 (the 3910 is) and a lot are 1 second. And many, many more are even more than that. I know your reference is now ZERO and that every layer change on any other deck you buy will seem to last forever, but you'll just have to console yourself with the stunning picture and sound of the 3910 or "3910-class" model that you eventually buy. :)

Codeman

11-22-05, 09:59 AM

I know, pepar. I guess a person could suffer worse fates, huh? :D

tsteves

11-22-05, 05:42 PM

jjtoma
Like JBaumgart the auto room setup is helpful to me as well. There's no harm in running both ways. Listen to analog when you want and dlink when you want.

lumpy9138

11-22-05, 06:46 PM

I've got two questions here. I was just going through this post, trying to find some answers, and realized there is a new firmware available for the 3910. First question being, what does this firmware upgrade do for the 3910? The second question is: I just tried playing a regular CD in the 3910, and it will only play in two channel audio. How do I get it play w/ DTS neo6 or Dolby PrologicIIx? Sorry if these questions were addressed earlier in the thread, I scanned quite a bit of it, but none seemed to suit my questions.

Sorry, I am using a Denon 3805 for my reciever. It is connected via D-link.

BillP

11-22-05, 08:01 PM

I've got two questions here. I was just going through this post, trying to find some answers, and realized there is a new firmware available for the 3910. First question being, what does this firmware upgrade do for the 3910? The second question is: I just tried playing a regular CD in the 3910, and it will only play in two channel audio. How do I get it play w/ DTS neo6 or Dolby PrologicIIx? Sorry if these questions were addressed earlier in the thread, I scanned quite a bit of it, but none seemed to suit my questions.
Do you know the code for the new firmware? THe last one I am aware of came out in July. Did a new one just come out? Regarding your 2nd Q, sorry, but regular CDs only have a 2-ch stereo track. You need an SACD or DVD-A or the flip side of a dual disc to get multichannel.

lumpy9138

11-22-05, 08:47 PM

I understand that regular CD's only have two ch. stereo, but I want to use Dolby or DTS when I paly two ch. audio. My reciever will not let me switch surround modes when playing a CD on my 3910.

pepar

11-22-05, 10:27 PM

Don't ya just love it when someone pops in and says "I see there is new firmware for the 3910" without mentioning a version number? :eek: :D

pepar

11-22-05, 10:35 PM

I understand that regular CD's only have two ch. stereo, but I want to use Dolby or DTS when I paly two ch. audio. My reciever will not let me switch surround modes when playing a CD on my 3910.
You should be able to process a 2-channel CD with DPL or DTS: Neo.

lumpy9138

11-22-05, 10:59 PM

pepar

11-22-05, 11:07 PM

I apologize for my ignorance, hence why I am asking for help. How do I determine what firmware I have? If I can process DPL and DTS, why will my reciever not aloow me to change over to it?

Again, I apologize for my ignorance, but if I knew all the answers, I wouldn't be asking for help.
I went back and added smilies! We watch for new firmware here like they watched Old North Church to see how the Brits were coming! Nervous anticipation.

What is your receiver? Are you using a digital connection from the 3910 to it? Is DPLIIx simply not an option when selecting modes?

lumpy9138

11-22-05, 11:18 PM

pepar

11-22-05, 11:26 PM

My reciever is a Denon 3805, connected via the D-link connection. When I play back a 2ch CD, it plays in 2 ch stereo. If I try to change the sound field( DPL or DTS) it will not change. the only option that seems to work is turning on the pure direct mode.
I'm not using D-link, so I'm not familiar with setting it up, but it does sound like a setting somewhere. Have you looked in the 3805 manual? BTW, I think Pure Direct bypasses all processing.

JBaumgart

11-22-05, 11:33 PM

I apologize for my ignorance, hence why I am asking for help. How do I determine what firmware I have? If I can process DPL and DTS, why will my reciever not aloow me to change over to it?

Again, I apologize for my ignorance, but if I knew all the answers, I wouldn't be asking for help.

Did you press the Surround button on your receiver's remote? Then you can press "Music", "Cinema" etc. Even the 3910's original firmware will allow you to process 2 channel CD's into the various surround modes - this is a function of the receiver, not the DVD player.

dtsfanoh

11-22-05, 11:52 PM

lumpy9138

11-23-05, 12:03 AM

Did you press the Surround button on your receiver's remote? Then you can press "Music", "Cinema" etc. Even the 3910's original firmware will allow you to process 2 channel CD's into the various surround modes - this is a function of the receiver, not the DVD player.

Yes, I did hit the surround button on the reomte. It does not do anything.

JBaumgart

11-23-05, 01:30 AM

lumpy, can you access the surround modes when using your TV or FM tuner? If so, then it's likely a connection or set-up issue with the 3910. Any other audio connection besides the Denon Link cable? To check if it's active, go to the audio set-up menu in the 3910.

Also, have you tried hitting the I-mode button (I think that's what it's called - don't have it in front of me) on the bottom left of the receiver's remote? What happens when you do?

lumpy9138

11-23-05, 08:32 AM

pepar

11-23-05, 08:44 AM

I have a DVD 2900 (had it since they were released). I love it and have no issues...but was wondering if the 3910 is truly worth the upgrade ? or best to wait and see how this HD DVD format war plays out? I am in no hurry. Thanks.
If you like to be the first on your block with the latest gadgets, then hi-def optical players may be only 6 - 9 months away. I say "may be" because release dates keep slipping. And if you bought the first one to hit, you would not find many titles for it. Consequently, you will be watching your DVD collection for some time as the studios release titles in such a way as to maximize their revenue. This should be read as meaning that, ater the initial title releases, they will dribble them out making as much a splash as possible with each one.

If you like to sit back and watch a new product develop and improve while the prices fall, it may be 1 - 2 years before you buy the Next Big Thing in an optical player. There will probably be many more titles by then, but you will still be watching some of your DVD collection.

And then there's the matter of the two competing formats. Perhaps you'll want to buy both. I won't. And inevitably, the DVD performance of first round or two of BD/HD-DVD players will not equal a high quality present-day model. So, again, you will be watching DVDs for years.

These are my opinions and how I plan on playing the technology cycle. With all that in mind, I bought a 3910 earlier in the year and was just blown away at both the video and audio quality. And I bought a 2910 for a secondary, bedroom mini-theater.

Ralph Potts

11-23-05, 09:05 AM

I have a DVD 2900 (had it since they were released). I love it and have no issues...but was wondering if the 3910 is truly worth the upgrade ? or best to wait and see how this HD DVD format war plays out? I am in no hurry. Thanks.

Greetings,

I upgraded from the 2900 to the 3910 in October 2004. I really liked the 2900 and like you had no problems with it while I had it. The 3910 is an improvement over the 2900 especially musically. On the video side the 3910 has more flexibility in terms of connection types and offers excellent image quality.

If you currently have a display device which is component video capable then I would recommend that you stick with the 2900. It's component video output offers very good picture quality and is on par with the 3910's component video output. If you have a display capable of accepting HDMI/DVI then I would say that you should consider the upgrade. There is a discernible difference in image quality going from the 2900's component video output to HDMI/DVI on the 3910 especially on a larger screen.

Regards,

DigiPete

11-23-05, 10:19 AM

Hello

I am downgrading from EAD separates to a Denon AVR-3806. I have
a 2200 now. If I pick up a 3910, would it be better
to use Denon-link or analog with better dac's from 3910? Anyone with
this experience please chime in. I think the 3805 had same dacs as 3806.

Thanks

Jim
:)

I would try it both ways and see what sounds best to you.
Using Denon Link gives you capabilites like room equalization, bass management, tone controls etc which you cannot get if you go analog out from your 3910 to your 3806.

Pete

JBaumgart

11-23-05, 11:59 AM

Yes, I can access other surround modes when using other devices. As far as the I-mode goes, it is currently set to auto.

I do currently have the analog connections hooked up, but i believe I set it up to use the D-link.

When you go into the 3910's setup, do you see that either D-link 2 or 3 is active (not grayed out)? Mine used to be 2 until I upgraded its firmware to 3, but even with version 2 there was no problem playing surround formats with the 3805 receiver. Anyway if the display shows that either 2 or 3 is active, when you play a CD does the Denon Link indicator light up on the front of the 3805? What happens when you disconnect your analog cables?

I still have a Denon Audio set-up tips white paper file that I could email to you if you want to send me a PM with your email address.

dtsfanoh

11-23-05, 04:04 PM

Greetings,

I upgraded from the 2900 to the 3910 in October 2004. I really liked the 2900 and like you had no problems with it while I had it. The 3910 is an improvement over the 2900 especially musically. On the video side the 3910 has more flexibility in terms of connection types and offers excellent image quality.

If you currently have a display device which is component video capable then I would recommend that you stick with the 2900. It's component video output offers very good picture quality and is on par with the 3910's component video output. If you have a display capable of accepting HDMI/DVI then I would say that you should consider the upgrade. There is a discernible difference in image quality going from the 2900's component video output to HDMI/DVI on the 3910 especially on a larger screen.

Regards,

I have a 65' Mits model with component input only. NO DVI/HDMI. I keep reading that many see no appreciable difference between a component vs DVI/HDMI picture. I have not seen an A/B comparison, which would be ideal. Thanks for the reply.

BuckNaked

11-23-05, 05:38 PM

Has anyone else encountered any difficulty playing DualDiscs in the 3910?

I'm relatively new to the medium, but I have experienced random skipping and other audio problems with two different copies of the same title.

I have had no problems with the "DVD side" of the discs, but when I try listening to the "CD side" the machine behaves very poorly, similar to what I have read as general complaints about DualDiscs in other players.

I know the 3910 is supposed to play DualDiscs without incident, and I've read no other complaints on this forum, but I'm wondering if maybe others have not yet flipped their discs to try and listen to the "CD side" as opposed to the hi-rez "DVD side".

(Incidentally, the titles were "Talking Heads: 77" and "More Songs About Buildings and Food" from the Talking Heads "Brick" boxed-set in case anyone has it.)

BGLeduc

11-23-05, 05:47 PM

I only own 2 Dual Discs; Dire Straits - Brothers in Arms, and Aerosmith - Rockin the Joint. In my 3910, BIA does not play, Aerosmith does (although it takes its time loading).

No problems with the DVD side of either.

In fact, while I have not tried Aerosmith, the CD side of BIA does NOT play in 1/2 of my players.

Brian

Ralph Potts

11-23-05, 06:11 PM

lumpy9138

11-23-05, 08:43 PM

[/QUOTE]
When you go into the 3910's setup, do you see that either D-link 2 or 3 is active (not grayed out)? Mine used to be 2 until I upgraded its firmware to 3, but even with version 2 there was no problem playing surround formats with the 3805 receiver. Anyway if the display shows that either 2 or 3 is active, when you play a CD does the Denon Link indicator light up on the front of the 3805? What happens when you disconnect your analog cables?

I still have a Denon Audio set-up tips white paper file that I could email to you if you want to send me a PM with your email address.

I just was able to check the menu, and the denon link was set to off. :confused: I coulda swore that it was turned on. :mad: Anyhoo, I now can use the different surround fields. Of course now this brings up another question: When it was turned off the AL24 light was lit, turned on the Denon-link light was lit. What is the Al24 used for then?

Ferdinand77

11-23-05, 09:39 PM

hi guys

currently have a denon 2200 and i'm thinking going for a 2910 or 3910. The 3910 is almost 2x the price of the 2910 here in my country.

Question: is there a big jump in picture and sound quality from my 2200 to the 2910 ? I'm using an infocus 4805 projector on a 92 inch with lexicon as my sound processor.

thank you for the inputs.

Ferd

Bad Scooter

11-23-05, 10:42 PM

Well, after much careful research on here and elsewhere, I decided on the DVD-3910. I made absolutely sure I got one with the latest firmware, (variant "D" in this case) in order to have multi-region capability.

So I load my first Region 2 disc, and I get the message "Wrong Region". What gives? How can this possibly be the case based on all of the posts I have read on this forum stating that the latest firmware made the player multi-regional. I have D-Link 3 enabled, so this must be the most recent firmware......right???

DigiPete

11-24-05, 12:25 AM

Badabbing

11-24-05, 12:37 AM

hi guys

currently have a denon 2200 and I'm thinking going for a 2910 or 3910. The 3910 is almost 2x the price of the 2910 here in my country.

Question: is there a big jump in picture and sound quality from my 2200 to the 2910 ? I'm using an infocus 4805 projector on a 92 inch with lexicon as my sound processor.

thank you for the inputs.

Ferd

The 3910 is twice the price in any country I believe. The 2910 has nearly identical video sections to it's brother. The audio section however is a different story. I believe the DAC's are batter quality and you have more circuitry isolation with the 3910. Overall you're paying for the extra audio refinements and audio quality. If audio is important to you as it is to me, the 3910 is a much better option even at twice the price. If your enjoiment comes from mainly DVD video, then the 2910 should do nicely.

SC

Bob Lee

11-24-05, 01:47 AM

Look here for 6609-E multiregion firmware

http://www.avforums.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2170317&postcount=427

DigiPete

Does this MR "E" upgrade only work if you are currently at the "D" level? In my case I am currently running the "B" firmware. Also, if you apply this MR upgrade, will that prevent you from successfully applying any additional firwmare upgrades that Denon might come out with? If not, then will applying any firmware upgrades on top of this remove the MR capability?

Ferdinand77

11-24-05, 02:12 AM

The 3910 is twice the price in any country I believe. The 2910 has nearly identical video sections to it's brother. The audio section however is a different story. I believe the DAC's are batter quality and you have more circuitry isolation with the 3910. Overall you're paying for the extra audio refinements and audio quality. If audio is important to you as it is to me, the 3910 is a much better option even at twice the price. If your enjoiment comes from mainly DVD video, then the 2910 should do nicely.

SC

Hi Sc,

actually i would like to improve the picture qualty from dvd's and the sound of the dvd's. I use it for cd sometimes but my priority is for pix quality and audio quality on the dvd-video playback. Will the 2910 do it for me from the 2200 ? How big is the diff in the two ?

thanks.

BillP

11-24-05, 09:00 AM

Some who have directly compared the 2910 and 3910 have reported slightly better PQ (about 10% better) and much better audio (maybe 25% better). The audio of the 2200 and 2910 should be exactly the same (same exact audio DACs).

Bad Scooter

11-24-05, 09:11 AM

Look here for 6609-E multiregion firmware

DigiPeteThank you DigiPete. Any special instructions on how to do this? I assume I unzip and save to a CD-R set to "data disc", then put in the 3910 and push 'Play"?

Thanks.

drachenbremser

11-24-05, 10:08 AM

I have a DVD 2900 (had it since they were released). I love it and have no issues...but was wondering if the 3910 is truly worth the upgrade ? or best to wait and see how this HD DVD format war plays out? I am in no hurry. Thanks.

Hi,

I owned a 2900 for 1 1/2 years and upgraded to the 3910 six month ago. For a couple of days I had both players at home to do a A/B comparison until the 2900 was sold. For both audio and video the 3910 is a very much better unit than the 2900. Soundstage is more open and clearer with the 3910, especially for SACD and DVD-Audio. I have never regret the change from 2900 to 3910.

DigiPete

11-24-05, 10:34 AM

Does this MR "E" upgrade only work if you are currently at the "D" level? In my case I am currently running the "B" firmware. Also, if you apply this MR upgrade, will that prevent you from successfully applying any additional firwmare upgrades that Denon might come out with? If not, then will applying any firmware upgrades on top of this remove the MR capability?

This will work if you already have Denon Link 3 on your unit.

This will not prevent future updates, since all the updates do is overwrite the rom with new instructions. Future upgrades may remove MR capability, so you will have to get MR versions of the firmware if you want that capability.

DigiPete

11-24-05, 11:02 AM

Thank you DigiPete. Any special instructions on how to do this? I assume I unzip and save to a CD-R set to "data disc", then put in the 3910 and push 'Play"?

Thanks.

Turn on the dvd player and press OPEN/CLOSE to open the drawer.
Place CD in the player and press OPEN/CLOSE.
After closing the drawer the update starts automatically.
The display shows “LOADING”. Then it shows “ERASE" and "WRITING”. After a little while the display shows “COMPLETE”.
The drawer opens automatically; take CD out of the dvd player.

Turn the dvd player off with the on/off button, and then on again.

---Confirming the firmware version---

Remove any disk from the player.
With drawer closed, turn the player off with the on/off button.
While pressing both “PLAY” and “OPEN/CLOSE” at the front of the player at the same time, turn the player on using the on/off button.
Keep the “PLAY” and “OPEN/CLOSE”depressed for 3 seconds.
Wait for the loading message to clear from the display.
On the remote control then press in sequence “3” “2” “ 6 “ “ 5 “.
Then, on the remote control, press “MENU” repeatedly to read out the firmware version.

Version : ESS 6609-E, MakeDay 902D, DRV 030825, SYS 6767-5, DSP 6770 C20041028.

Turn power OFF using on/off button.

Denon usually recommends initializing the player after an update. Many people don't, but I do just to make sure all the ones and zeros are ok. Make sure you write down all your customized settings for the player, as the initialization will reset them all.

---Initialization---

Remove any disk from the player.
With drawer closed, turn the player ON with the on/off button.
While pressing both “PLAY” and “FF/Skip” at the front of the player at the same time, then press the “OPEN/CLOSE” and hold all three buttons depressed for 3 seconds.
"INITIALIZE" will be displayed on the front panel.
Release the 3 buttons
Initialize is now complete.

You will have to re-enter all your custom settings in the player (takes 2 minutes if you have the values written down).

gimp

11-24-05, 02:55 PM

If you like to be the first on your block with the latest gadgets, then hi-def optical players may be only 6 - 9 months away. I say "may be" because release dates keep slipping. And if you bought the first one to hit, you would not find many titles for it. Consequently, you will be watching your DVD collection for some time as the studios release titles in such a way as to maximize their revenue. This should be read as meaning that, ater the initial title releases, they will dribble them out making as much a splash as possible with each one.

If you like to sit back and watch a new product develop and improve while the prices fall, it may be 1 - 2 years before you buy the Next Big Thing in an optical player. There will probably be many more titles by then, but you will still be watching some of your DVD collection.

And then there's the matter of the two competing formats. Perhaps you'll want to buy both. I won't. And inevitably, the DVD performance of first round or two of BD/HD-DVD players will not equal a high quality present-day model. So, again, you will be watching DVDs for years.

These are my opinions and how I plan on playing the technology cycle. With all that in mind, I bought a 3910 earlier in the year and was just blown away at both the video and audio quality. And I bought a 2910 for a secondary, bedroom mini-theater.

Once again you have crystallized my thoughts exactly! Love my 3910.

gimp

11-24-05, 03:04 PM

Swearengen

11-24-05, 04:54 PM

I can see many have written down their customed settings on the 3910. I have ordered a 3910 and would like some opinions about the settings. Is there a thread where people share settings?

pepar

11-24-05, 05:13 PM

I can see many have written down their customed settings on the 3910. I have ordered a 3910 and would like some opinions about the settings. Is there a thread where people share settings?
Not sure what you mean there, Mr. McShane. Most settings are dictated by one's equipment configuration. And if you're referring to contrast, brightness, etc, I think most people make those adjustments on their displays.

QuadESL63

11-25-05, 12:27 AM

Just got my 3910 back from Denon Canada via the local dealer that I bought it from. They have fixed the BTB issue (mine is manufactured on 28th Oct '04 but I still have this issue) and upgraded the firmware to ESS 6609-E for me :)

Actually, what so special about the "E" version except for DL3?

pepar

11-25-05, 02:37 PM

Actually, what so special about the "E" version except for DL3?
You are the only one on the world with that firmware.

:)

keyser

11-25-05, 04:36 PM

You are the only one on the world with that firmware.
What do you mean, "E" is the latest firmware... there´s a link to a download over at avforums.

Does anyone know what has changed from the first DL3(B) firmware?

DigiPete

11-25-05, 06:45 PM

What do you mean, "E" is the latest firmware... there´s a link to a download over at avforums.

Does anyone know what has changed from the first DL3(B) firmware?

Have not seen a write up yet on what is new in the -E firmware.

Nothing obvious that I can see so far.

I still can't play the MP3 mono files that I have...

IwantmyTHX

11-25-05, 07:51 PM

Hey all,
Thanks for all the great info I just purchades the Avr4806/DVD3910 and as to not sidetrack this thread I posted som questions here. (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=608343)
TIA, Jeff

IwantmyTHX

11-25-05, 10:10 PM

OK set up the 3910 to the AVR-4806 "temporarily" using the firrewire cord (as the DL was missing) to my surround speakers(POlkRt-55's) which were sitting on the floor, 4 feet apart, and DVD-A at 0.0 is ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!.

Bob Lee

11-26-05, 02:32 AM

Has anyone who owns this disc had any problems playing it? I recently upgrade from the 2200 to the 3910. On the 2200 the disc played just fine, but on the 3910 there is extreme pixelation and stuttering, rendering the disc unusable. The player also seems to have a problem interpreting the disc's format, as once when I popped it in the 3910 treated it like a data disc and displayed its folder structure on my screen. Is the 3910 considered to be more finicky about these sorts of things than other players? I am currently running the "B" version of firmware.

Ralph Potts

11-26-05, 09:15 AM

RMK!

11-26-05, 12:31 PM

RMK!

11-26-05, 12:32 PM

Greetings,

I have the Shawshank redemption SE disc and it plays just fine on my 3910.

Regards,

Ditto

Bob Lee

11-26-05, 12:38 PM

Ditto

Hmm...I'm hoping then that there is something wrong with the disc itself and not the player. However, the disc plays perfectly on my 2200 as well as a couple of other DVD players I have in the house.

BillP

11-26-05, 01:43 PM

I am experiencing significant macroblocking on my 3910 specifically on the U 571 DVD underwater scenes. I use this DVD as an audio (subwoofer) demo quite a bit and the MB is more noticeable here than on any other DVD I own or have rented. In fact, I thought that MB was no longer an issue (I had the problem on previous 1910 and 2910 models). I have a LG DLP RP connected via DVI running @720P. Again, the MB has been almost totally absent until I purchased this DVD. Any comments or suggestions?
Although the 3910 reportedly has less MB than any other Faroudja player, I'm surprised you bought the 3910 after seeing MB with the 1910 and 2910 when paired up with your display. The only cure is a non-Faroudja player, like the Pioneer 59ai or 79ai, or Onkyo SP1000 (all similar in quality to the 3910).

Badabbing

11-26-05, 02:17 PM

Hi Sc,

actually i would like to improve the picture qualty from dvd's and the sound of the dvd's. I use it for cd sometimes but my priority is for pix quality and audio quality on the dvd-video playback. Will the 2910 do it for me from the 2200 ? How big is the diff in the two ?

thanks.

As BillP quotes in the following post the difference is between the 2910 and the 3910 is substantial. If you have a decent investment in your A/V gear it's worth the extra price you pay for the 3910. It was for me. Would it have been nice to save $500.00 on a 2910? Sure it would have, but I've been there before and trying to save money when you're dealing with such a high quality piece of gear has almost always been the wrong choice for me. I look at it this way, if I can ask myself why should I spend the extra cash for any high price component versus the lower price model, then I have the extra cash to spend. I just have to justify it. Again, it's a big pill to swallow at 1200.00+ but it's worth every penny if the rest of your gear is up to par. Remember, it's all relative when you purchase A/V gear.

Good luck on your decision,

SC

RMK!

11-26-05, 02:19 PM

Although the 3910 reportedly has less MB than any other Faroudja player, I'm surprised you bought the 3910 after seeing MB with the 1910 and 2910 when paired up with your display. The only cure is a non-Faroudja player, like the Pioneer 59ai or 79ai, or Onkyo SP1000 (all similar in quality to the 3910).

Bill,

I suspected that the Faroudja chipset and my DLP was the issue. For the most part, I'm very happy with the 3910. I use it 60%/40% movies/music and have a Denon AVR and use Denon Link single cable connection. I may look into the Pioneer players though as I could use the Firewire connection instead for Denon Link. Thanks for the info.

GX624

11-26-05, 03:23 PM

Hi guys,

I'm on firmware version 6609-6.
Can I just do the latest upgrade from the website, or do I have to do all the upgrades in between?

Appreciate the help.

pepar

11-26-05, 03:36 PM

Hi guys,

I'm on firmware version 6609-6.
Can I just do the latest upgrade from the website, or do I have to do all the upgrades in between?

Appreciate the help.
Any and all "upgrades" are complete in that no previous ones need to be applied first.

antman27

11-26-05, 03:47 PM

Tag along
I have had my 3910 about a year and never upgraded any firmware how do I find out what I have ?
What advantages is there to upgrading mine seams to be working fine.

BillP

11-26-05, 04:26 PM

As BillP quotes in the following post the difference is between the 2910 and the 3910 is substantial. If you have a decent investment in your A/V gear it's worth the extra price you pay for the 3910. It was for me. Would it have been nice to save $500.00 on a 2910? Sure it would have, but I've been there before and trying to save money when you're dealing with such a high quality piece of gear has almost always been the wrong choice for me. I look at it this way, if I can ask myself why should I spend the extra cash for any high price component versus the lower price model, then I have the extra cash to spend. I just have to justify it. Again, it's a big pill to swallow at 1200.00+ but it's worth every penny if the rest of your gear is up to par. Remember, it's all relative when you purchase A/V gear.

Good luck on your decision,

SC
That was my thought process as well. I went for the 3910 since I was very interested in the audio component, not just video. For someone just interested in video, it's a lot harder to justify the 3910 over the 2910. The 3910 sounds even better than the 2900, whereas the 2910 uses the same audio DACs as the 2200 (which does not sound as good as the 2900). Of course, this all assumes you are using the player's DACs, which I am.

BillP

11-26-05, 04:27 PM

Tag along
I have had my 3910 about a year and never upgraded any firmware how do I find out what I have ?
What advantages is there to upgrading mine seams to be working fine.
Register your player on the US Denon.com website, and it will tell you if there is an upgrade for you (the last one I know about in the US came out in July). Some of the most recent updates allowed SACD over DenonLink, and fixed something that was a problem for me, namely that whenever I changed the aspect ratio (to watch a 4:3 DVD), it changed the black level to enhanced (very annoying, but fixed earlier this year).

GX624

11-26-05, 06:19 PM

Any and all "upgrades" are complete in that no previous ones need to be applied first.

Got it.

Thanks, pepar. :cool:

Pedro1985

11-27-05, 05:33 AM

Hello Folks

I´ve Got yesterday The Denon DVD-3910 and it´s indeed a great machine really loved it.

But in the last tests i´ve seen something curious: When playing movies or even shows and i want to enter in its menu (to change the audio or do another thing), i have to press the MENU botton at the RC. Great, i enter in the menu make the changes that i want, but after it, i have to return to the movie/show but pressing the MENU Botton to come back dont occurr nothing! , and don´t come back to the scene that i was watching. So to return to the movie/show i have to go to Start Program/show/movie and in the most of cases starts from the begining (depending the DVD). So, I´d like to hear from the Denon 3910 owners if this is a common think from this player or it is could be a defect (in this case a firmware problem)?

Thanks,

Pedro

echnaton

11-27-05, 06:46 AM

Any and all "upgrades" are complete in that no previous ones need to be applied first.

Just to be really clear here....when you come from 6609-6 and you want to go to the multi-region '6609-E' version of the firmware that just came out, then you need to apply the official 3-disc version of the firmware first. '6609-B' I believe is the version. After that you can safely apply the single-disc 'E' upgrade.

pepar

11-27-05, 12:13 PM

Just to be really clear here....when you come from 6609-6 and you want to go to the multi-region '6609-E' version of the firmware that just came out, then you need to apply the official 3-disc version of the firmware first. '6609-B' I believe is the version. After that you can safely apply the single-disc 'E' upgrade.
Sorry. I've never used MR firmware. Sounds like the MR version flashes only the specific part that controls region and the official firmware is needed to upgrade everything else.

BuckNaked

11-27-05, 02:27 PM

Make sure that you turn OFF the HDMI video output prior to playing the Dual Discs. Doing so creates a sync error if your 3910 has the latest firmware which updated HDMI to 1.1 and you are using the analog audio outputs.Placidman - No joy on the HDMI fix. I assume you are referring to the "HDMI/DVI Select" button on the remote. This is set to "off" and I still have audio dropout, skipping, variable tempo issues with the "non DVD" side of the DualDiscs. The only other place I saw any reference to HDMI was in the set-up menu, and those were all greyed out, as I am using component out to my display.

BuckNaked

11-27-05, 02:38 PM

Hmm...I'm hoping then that there is something wrong with the disc itself and not the player. However, the disc plays perfectly on my 2200 as well as a couple of other DVD players I have in the house.I have one disc, "Kill Bill" which is a "Region 0" DVD that freezes at exactly the same point on my 3910. The same disc plays fine on a high-end Sony as well as a $59 Wal-Mart player. Maybe the 3910 is just a little finicky. :confused:

BuckNaked

11-27-05, 02:51 PM

I have had my 3910 about a year and never upgraded any firmware how do I find out what I have?Antman - Thanks to DigiPete for posting this a few days ago:

---Confirming the firmware version---

Remove any disk from the player.
With drawer closed, turn the player off with the on/off button.
While pressing both “PLAY” and “OPEN/CLOSE” at the front of the player at the same time, turn the player on using the on/off button.
Keep the “PLAY” and “OPEN/CLOSE”depressed for 3 seconds.
Wait for the loading message to clear from the display.
On the remote control then press in sequence “3” “2” “ 6 “ “ 5 “.
Then, on the remote control, press “MENU” repeatedly to read out the firmware version.

Version : ESS 6609-E, MakeDay 902D, DRV 030825, SYS 6767-5, DSP 6770 C20041028.

What advantages is there to upgrading mine seams to be working fine.Indeed, your player probably is working just fine. From what I gather, the "D" firmware release upgrades you to to "Denon Link 3" which allows you to pass SACD signals via D-Link. (non a big issue, if you don't have or don't want SACDs...or if you prefer the 6 analog cables for passing SACD which isn't a bad way to go either). The "E" firmware release allows you to play DVDs from any region, whereas now you can just play Regions 1, 9, and 0. (also not a big issue, if you don't have or don't want DVDs from regions outside North America).

Ralph Potts

11-27-05, 03:13 PM

Placidman - No joy on the HDMI fix. I assume you are referring to the "HDMI/DVI Select" button on the remote. This is set to "off" and I still have audio dropout, skipping, variable tempo issues with the "non DVD" side of the DualDiscs. The only other place I saw any reference to HDMI was in the set-up menu, and those were all greyed out, as I am using component out to my display.

Greetings,

BN, yes that is what I was referring to. Sorry it did not take care of the problem.

Regards,

DigiPete

11-27-05, 05:59 PM

DigiPete

11-27-05, 06:09 PM

Antman - Thanks to DigiPete for posting this a few days ago:

From what I gather, the "D" firmware release upgrades you to to "Denon Link 3" which allows you to pass SACD signals via D-Link. (non a big issue, if you don't have or don't want SACDs...or if you prefer the 6 analog cables for passing SACD which isn't a bad way to go either).

The "E" firmware release allows you to play DVDs from any region, whereas now you can just play Regions 1, 9, and 0. (also not a big issue, if you don't have or don't want DVDs from regions outside North America).

Actually -B firmware gets you Denon Link 3rd edition (SACD capable).

-E firmware is region-free, but there is region-free -B firmware also available.

There are bug fixes in each suceeding version, just don't what they are at this point.

HOOPOFFICIAL

11-27-05, 11:59 PM

I am new here but would appreciate some guidance. I was trying to recalibrate my Denon 3910 but the test tones are not constant. They Buzz, stop, Buzz, stop etc.. Has anyone else experienced this issue. I do have the most recent firmware upgrade. Test tones worked before I installed the "upgrade" but I installed it months ago and never re-checked the test tone generator. Hence, I don't know if there is a cause and effect relationship. Any help will be much appreciated. thanks.

pepar

11-28-05, 08:12 AM

Dary

11-28-05, 08:51 AM

But in the last tests i´ve seen something curious: When playing movies or even shows and i want to enter in its menu (to change the audio or do another thing), i have to press the MENU botton at the RC. Great, i enter in the menu make the changes that i want, but after it, i have to return to the movie/show but pressing the MENU Botton to come back dont occurr nothing! , and don´t come back to the scene that i was watching.Hi.
Let me try to help you here also. The behavior you got from the Menu key is normal. While playing a DVD, if you press Menu, it will get you to the DVD Menu. Pressing Menu again it will never get you back to the point you were before pressing it the first time. Also, once you are back to the menu, I think it will depend on how the specific media navigation was setup to be able to get back to the point you were before pressing Menu (and after changing options on the DVD menu).
Regards,
Dary

pepar

11-28-05, 09:12 AM

HOOPOFFICIAL

11-28-05, 09:49 AM

pepar

11-28-05, 10:05 AM

Pepar, thanks for responding. Yes I did that before I posted. I know that this has helped another issue or two that I had with this "finicky" player. It did not work this time. Other than the test tone issue, the player sounds fantastic through all digital or analog connections. Finally got the Rackshack meter and I wanted to tweek some levels for DVD-A / SACD playback using the meter instead of my ears.

In a related issue, I still haven't found a way to adjust the Sub level. At Dolby reference volume on my B&K Ref50 the sub test tone barely is audible. I can't get a reading to set the sub at all.
It doesn't address your 3910's noisy test tones, but you could use a test DVD such as Avia or Digital Video Essentials (DVE) to set your levels. While they are DD 5.1 discs, using the 3910's (decoder and) analog outputs should properly set you up for DVD-A/SACD as well.

As for you sub, does it have any output during movies? If not, I'd start with the basics - wiring, power, etc. Are there settings on the sub and are they all set correctly?

HOOPOFFICIAL

11-28-05, 10:30 AM

It doesn't address your 3910's noisy test tones, but you could use a test DVD such as Avia or Digital Video Essentials (DVE) to set your levels. While they are DD 5.1 discs, using the 3910's (decoder and) analog outputs should properly set you up for DVD-A/SACD as well.

As for you sub, does it have any output during movies? If not, I'd start with the basics - wiring, power, etc. Are there settings on the sub and are they all set correctly?

The sub works fine when routed through a digital stream. I'm not so sure when it goes through the analog outputs. I get very little sub information on DVD-A or SACD recordings. Of course, they could be mixed that way. I am going to try to play a movie with strong bass using the analog 5.1 connections (bypassing my digital connection) to see what happens. In theory, the Denon should produce the same amount of bass effects as with the digital connections, correct? If it does, I am not going to worry about it but I don't think that this is going to happen. I think there is an issue with the analogue output from the sub channel.

I called Denon and the tech was not very helpful. He told me to reset the unit and if that did not work, send it in for service. The unit is just over 1 year old so it is out of warranty. Go figure.

pepar

11-28-05, 11:53 AM

The sub works fine when routed through a digital stream. I'm not so sure when it goes through the analog outputs. I get very little sub information on DVD-A or SACD recordings. Of course, they could be mixed that way. I am going to try to play a movie with strong bass using the analog 5.1 connections (bypassing my digital connection) to see what happens. In theory, the Denon should produce the same amount of bass effects as with the digital connections, correct? If it does, I am not going to worry about it but I don't think that this is going to happen. I think there is an issue with the analogue output from the sub channel.

I called Denon and the tech was not very helpful. He told me to reset the unit and if that did not work, send it in for service. The unit is just over 1 year old so it is out of warranty. Go figure.
That your sub works at all would indicate that wiring is OK. Check your bass management settings.

If you have main power amp inputs, try running the 3910 analogues outputs directly to it. But be careful with volume levels.

pepar

11-28-05, 11:55 AM

I called Denon and the tech was not very helpful. He told me to reset the unit and if that did not work, send it in for service. The unit is just over 1 year old so it is out of warranty. Go figure.
I would re-flash the firmware as one final try at fixing it before considering service. No, actually, I would try banging on it as one final try before considering service. :)

HOOPOFFICIAL

11-28-05, 12:18 PM

QuadESL63

11-28-05, 12:29 PM

-E firmware is region-free, but there is region-free -B firmware also available.

I got my 3910 back from the factory, and they have upgraded my player to the "E" firmware. However, I still can't play non-region 1 DVDs.

Do I have to do something (key presses, etc.) to change it to region-free even if I have the "E" firmware? Or, is there a non-region-free "E" version?

Sam S

11-28-05, 01:09 PM

I got my 3910 back from the factory, and they have upgraded my player to the "E" firmware. However, I still can't play non-region 1 DVDs.

Do I have to do something (key presses, etc.) to change it to region-free even if I have the "E" firmware? Or, is there a non-region-free "E" version?

It seems as though there is both R1 -E firmware, as well as multi-region -E firmware. This is not uncommon. You'd have to reflash your player with the multi-region version to play the other discs.

QuadESL63

11-28-05, 01:24 PM

It seems as though there is both R1 -E firmware, as well as multi-region -E firmware. This is not uncommon. You'd have to reflash your player with the multi-region version to play the other discs.

Yes, it makes sense. I don't think Denon Canada will give me a region free player since that will probably don't sit well with Hollywood studios. I have two other region free players so it is not really a big deal. I have been confused by the other posts about the region free capability of the "E" firmware, and I just want to clarify.

I guess no one really know what the "E" firmware will do :p

Now that they have fixed the BTB problem for me I can finally enjoy mine! Hopefully, this is my last DVD player purchase until the true HD players are here with enough software supports.

pepar

11-28-05, 02:33 PM

Pepar, by reflashing, do you mean resetting the machine per the user manual instructions? As far as bass mgt settings, regardless of where I set it, the amount of bass or lack there of is about the same. I have Monitor GR60 towers for the front so I do have the crossover set below 80 (65). I think my experiment with the Movie soundtrack will be definitive. If the bass is powerfull through the analog inputs, my problem is limited to a crappy test tone generator that I can bypass using a test disc. If the bass is weak, I have a much bigger issue that I will need to make a servicing decison on.
Actually, I mean following the entire procedure for "upgrading" the firmware. It's possible some of the BIOS(?) got scrambled and this would fix that. And then re-initialize, too. If that doesn't do it, then there's most likely a hardware issue.

PS. Nice touch with the banging it comment. I would agree.
There's actually a sound scientific basis for this. Sometimes electrical contacts oxidize reducing conductivity or even breaking the circuit. Smacking it up 'long side the head loosens the oxidization re-establishing proper electrical contact. So, both the left and right sides of our brains have something to feel good about when applying an "external shock" in this manner. :)

DigiPete

11-28-05, 08:15 PM

I got my 3910 back from the factory, and they have upgraded my player to the "E" firmware. However, I still can't play non-region 1 DVDs.

Do I have to do something (key presses, etc.) to change it to region-free even if I have the "E" firmware? Or, is there a non-region-free "E" version?

Sorry, I meant to say "there is a region free version of the -E firmware" which you can get here:

http://www.avforums.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2170317&postcount=427

Cheers
DigiPete

QuadESL63

11-29-05, 11:44 AM

Sorry, I meant to say "there is a region free version of the -E firmware" which you can get here:

http://www.avforums.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2170317&postcount=427

Cheers
DigiPete

Thanks for the clarification! ;)

pottsy

11-29-05, 01:57 PM

Anyone else get lots of CUE after applying this firmware? My HD+ does a half reasonable job of softening it, but it's very visible on Toy Story (R1).

http://www.apotts.plus.com/cue_off.jpg

HOOPOFFICIAL

11-30-05, 11:20 AM

Actually, I mean following the entire procedure for "upgrading" the firmware. It's possible some of the BIOS(?) got scrambled and this would fix that. And then re-initialize, too. If that doesn't do it, then there's most likely a hardware issue.

There's actually a sound scientific basis for this. Sometimes electrical contacts oxidize reducing conductivity or even breaking the circuit. Smacking it up 'long side the head loosens the oxidization re-establishing proper electrical contact. So, both the left and right sides of our brains have something to feel good about when applying an "external shock" in this manner. :)

Pepar, thanks for your assistance. I reflashed and reset and the test tones work fine now. I am still experimenting with the overall bass issue. Quick question to anyone, does cross over LFE only apply to speakers set to SMALL? Thanks again!

pepar

11-30-05, 12:12 PM

Pepar, thanks for your assistance. I reflashed and reset and the test tones work fine now. I am still experimenting with the overall bass issue. Quick question to anyone, does cross over LFE only apply to speakers set to SMALL? Thanks again!
I think if you set it to LARGE for your main speakers ONLY LFE is sent to your sub. And I think that the x-over setting does only affect bass routed from MAINS to SUB.

My position on LARGE vs SMALL is that there are NO LARGE speakers, at least none that most can afford. My test for that is this: If a speaker system benefits from adding a subwoofer, then it is NOT LARGE. Nothing short of something like an Infinity Prelude (with it's separate subwoofer!) is full-range in my book.

Try setting all to SMALL and cross over at Dolby standard 80Hz and see what happens.

HOOPOFFICIAL

11-30-05, 12:32 PM

pepar

11-30-05, 12:50 PM

Interesting thought. It kills me to redirect bass information away from a tower speaker that is designed to pump out bass. I have Monitor GR60's and they sound fantastic when you play a quality recording. I typically play two channel music using direct analog connections bypassing the DAC in my prepro. I do this with my old Adcom CD player and the Denon 3910. I guess that I need to start thinking about HT content differently.
There's bass and then there's BASS. Movie sound tracks can have content to 20Hz, and even lower sometimes. I'd be surprised is any single cabinet speaker has quality, meaningful output at 20Hz. And 16Hz? Fuggetaboutit. Most music will NOT have content that low, but I'd bet something like Chris Squire's frettless Rickenbacker can come close. Chest thumping bass drum also need to move a lot of air to actually thump one's chest, too. Another point made by the "send it all to the sub" crowd is that you are less likely to excite as many troublesome room nodes with all the sub-100Hz frequencies coming from one spot. Try it both ways and see which you like.

Speaking of direct mode in the 3910, I currently have the 6 analog connections for DVD-A/SACD and the normal two channel connections being sent to my prepro. My prepro (as stated above), has the ability to bypass digital processing (DAC) if desired. Is it redundant having both sets of analogs hooked up? Basically, if I have a two channel CD in the 3910 and select DVD-A on my prepro, it is only going to pick up the 2 channels from the 6 anyway. Is the informaton passed via all analogs outputs processed the same in the 3910? Just curious. Thanks again.
Probably redundent. And I'm guessing the quality of what is outputted via the 6-channel analog outs is far better than the "normal" stereo outputs. (But that's just a guess.)

tjt123

12-01-05, 01:10 AM

Just picked up a floor model 3910 yesterday from my local authorized retailer (full warranty). It has a Mfg date of June 2004 which (based on what I've read in this thread) means I shouldn't have the Blacker than Black problem.

I have it hooked to an Infocus SP7200 and when I use either HDMI or Component connection, regardless of how high I set the brightness, I can't see the shadow on the THX optimization screen from the Star Wars DVD. I do see the shadow if I use the Composite connection.

I then hooked the 3910 up to my old standard def TV via Component cable running 480i and I CAN see the shadow on my old TV (36" Toshiba direct view). If I pull the cable out of my TV and plug it into the SP7200 (still running 480i) I can't see the shadow.

My assumption here is that the 3910 is fine since it passes BTB via 480i to my SD TV and that it's a limitation of my projector. However is it possible that the Denon is detecting a High Def digital TV (projector) on the other end of the Component cable and sending a different signal then it does with the Standard Def TV?

Does anyone have an SP7200 with the 3910? Can you see BTB on the THX screen?

By the way, I assume this is related but when I turn on the "Enhanced Black Level" the whole THX logo and a few of the black boxes go away (regardless of how high I set the brightness). It basically looks like the lowest several levels of black have been pushed below BTB so I can't see them at all. Based on the manual, it sounds like that is exactly what it does so right now this feature is completely useless for me.

-TIM

pepar

12-01-05, 09:18 AM

tjt123

12-01-05, 04:28 PM

Enhanced black is the wrong setting. And check setup on your PJ and make whatever adjustment needs to be done there regarding black level. Then calibrate the system with Avia or DVE or even the THX Optimizer that is on a lot of THX DVDs. Only after that can you really tell if you have a BTB problem.

I actually did calibrate with Avia first. However since it doesn't have a BTB test I switched over to the THX Optimizer. Based on just using the THX Optimizer through HDMI or Component Video to my projector, it appears that I have the BTB issue since I can't see the THX shadow (even after turning brightness far above the settings that Avia had me set it to).

What is confusing me here is that I then pulled the component cable out of my projector and plugged it into my SD TV and I was able to see the THX shadow (3910 480i component out to SD TV).

To make matters more confusing if I take my old $100 Panasonic DVD player and feed 480i Component to my projector I can see the THX shadow (I'll double check this tonight but I'm 99% sure that this did work).

Here are my tests:

3910 480i Component to Projector - Can't see BTB
3910 720P HDMI to Projector - Can't see BTB
3910 Compsite to Projector - CAN see BTB
3910 480i Component to SD TV - CAN see BTB

$100 Panasonic DVD 480i to Projector CAN see BTB
$100 Panasonic DVD 480i to SD TV CAN see BTB

So it looks to me like my Projector can see BTB from my cheap player and my 3910 can send BTB to my SD TV via Component.

So does what I'm describing (no BTB to HD Projector but BTB Ok to SD TV) fit the 3910 BTB issue as seen by others or does it sound like I have something in my projector that is blocking BTB?

-TIM

pepar

12-01-05, 04:52 PM

So does what I'm describing (no BTB to HD Projector but BTB Ok to SD TV) fit the 3910 BTB issue as seen by others or does it sound like I have something in my projector that is blocking BTB?
Wow, OK. As my unit has passed BTB from Day 1, I can't assist further. Mine was built Oct '04 and I haven't a clue as to why yours is not working the same. Others will need to step up with their experiences.

You might try upgrading to the latest firmware. Even if you have the latest, I'd suggest going through the whole upgrade procedure again, including re-initializing. HOOPOFFICIAL, somewhere back the thread a page or so, had a test tone issue and he followed the same suggestion and is working fine now.

Paul Klassen

12-03-05, 12:13 AM

Ok I am trying to turn on the Denon Link in the menu but it is not highlighted and I cannot do anything with it. I have the DL3 and my unit is only a couple months old with a serial number over 10000.

Please help

Thanks
Paul

JohnGZ28

12-03-05, 12:22 AM

Paul Klassen

12-03-05, 01:30 AM

Take the DVD out of the tray.

Thank You. It would be nice if they tell you that in the manual(and if they did then I am just an idiot :) )

Paul

DennyH

12-03-05, 11:16 AM

I know there are some wonderfully smart people here so I am bringing my problem to you. A few months ago, my DLink connection stopped working after 6 months of flawless operation(coax still works great). The 3805 will indicate that there is no signal by listing "Ext In". I have Ext In as my "no signal" input. If I change it to "analog" as the no signal input, the 3805 will indicate analog when I set everything up for DLink. Here something interesting happened. After it stopped working I changed the DLink cable that came with the unit to a standard Cat5 cable and everything started working again. This could have been a bad coincidence because two months later, the DLink stopped working again and this time, changing the cable out didnt help at all.
I talked to my dealer where the 3910 was purchased and he was of very little help. Heck, he didnt even know anything about upgrading to DL 3 when asked about it. So, I had a choice to make. Send the 3805 in to Denon for repair or send in the 3910. I chose the 3805. Seven weeks later I received the 3805 back and much to my chagrin, nothing had changed. My DLink still doesnt work.
I upgraded to DL 3 to see if that would help the situation, but it didnt.
If I have to send the 3910 to Denon, I. of course, will but if you guys have any other suggestions, please lay them on me. I hate being without my theater room for 7-8 more weeks. :eek: I will take any suggestions, no matter how simple they might sound. I dont think I have overlooked anything, but who knows?
Would it be a waste of money to purchase a true DLink cable just to see if that might work again, or are the Cat5's in fact the exact same thing, like I've been told?

PooperScooper

12-03-05, 11:32 AM

Hi all,
Forgive the intrusion, but I'm trying to drum up entries into the new sticky thread I created the other day: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=611824

It's a thread intented for people looking for a new player (or help with an existing one) to quickly find other people using a DVD player with the same TV/display/PJ they are using. The format is quite simple and only takes a couple of minutes to enter your info. "templates" are there to copy/quote. Thanks for taking the time.

larry

Timbo21

12-04-05, 10:16 AM

I actually did calibrate with Avia first. However since it doesn't have a BTB test I switched over to the THX Optimizer. Based on just using the THX Optimizer through HDMI or Component Video to my projector, it appears that I have the BTB issue since I can't see the THX shadow (even after turning brightness far above the settings that Avia had me set it to).

What is confusing me here is that I then pulled the component cable out of my projector and plugged it into my SD TV and I was able to see the THX shadow (3910 480i component out to SD TV).

To make matters more confusing if I take my old $100 Panasonic DVD player and feed 480i Component to my projector I can see the THX shadow (I'll double check this tonight but I'm 99% sure that this did work).

Here are my tests:

3910 480i Component to Projector - Can't see BTB
3910 720P HDMI to Projector - Can't see BTB
3910 Compsite to Projector - CAN see BTB
3910 480i Component to SD TV - CAN see BTB

$100 Panasonic DVD 480i to Projector CAN see BTB
$100 Panasonic DVD 480i to SD TV CAN see BTB

So it looks to me like my Projector can see BTB from my cheap player and my 3910 can send BTB to my SD TV via Component.

So does what I'm describing (no BTB to HD Projector but BTB Ok to SD TV) fit the 3910 BTB issue as seen by others or does it sound like I have something in my projector that is blocking BTB?

-TIM

Hi Tim :) ,

I had a similar problem. I wasn't geting BTB from my 3910 to my Infocus Sp7205 via HDMI, but I was getting it on the component inputs.

No matter how high I turned the brightness on my pj the third pluge bar, or THX shadow, didn't come up.

Try this, which fixed it for me:

a) Turn up the brightness setting on the 3910 to +4 on one of the five picture memories. When you turn up the brightness on your pj, hopefully, like mine you will see BTB.

b) Just recalibrate using Avia/DVE keeping the 3910 brightness to +4, & just adjust brightness on pj to correct level.

I just think that there is just some imbalance between the bits of kit. Likewise if you notch up the contrast on the 3910 you may find that you can't get the correct setting by then using your pj's contrast. I guess the pj just needs for it's source to be within certain boundaries - if this is the case with yours.

Let us know if it works.

Good luck,

Tim.

Swearengen

12-04-05, 05:44 PM

***EDIT***

No problems anyway...got it solved! Sorry for any inconveniences!

pepar

12-04-05, 08:32 PM

***EDIT***

No problems anyway...got it solved! Sorry for any inconveniences!
Wow, I hit F5 to see if anyone had a reply to your post and it nearly disappeared completely! What was the problem and what did you do to fix it?

Jeff

tjt123

12-04-05, 11:13 PM

Hi Tim :) ,

Try this, which fixed it for me:

a) Turn up the brightness setting on the 3910 to +4 on one of the five picture memories. When you turn up the brightness on your pj, hopefully, like mine you will see BTB.

b) Just recalibrate using Avia/DVE keeping the 3910 brightness to +4, & just adjust brightness on pj to correct level.

Tim.

Thanks...I'll try that. I have to wait though as I took the floor model and he didn't have the correct remote and had to order me one. The remote he loaned me won't let me get into those adjustments and I don't see a button on the front of the unit to get me into those setup options either.

Just to add to the data, I re-ran my earlier tests to confirm and also took my 3910 to my parents house to try it on their HD RPTV. I could only try component as I didn't have a DVI cable.

Results are:

3910 to 7200 via HDMI or Component (1080i, 720P, 480P, 480i) No BTB
3910 to HD RPTV (CRT rear projection) via Component (480P) No BTB

3910 to 7200 or SDTV via composite passes BTB
3910 to SD TV Component (480i) passes BTB
Cheap Panasonic to 7200 via Component (480i) passes BTB
Mid range Sony DVD to HD RPTV via Component (480P) passes BTB

The moral of my story is that I fail BTB on HDMI or Component when hooked to any High Def display and pass it in all other cases.

Interestingly on the 3910 to SDTV Component (480i) test I actually had the component cables plugged into my SDTV and was seeing the shadow on THX screen. Without turning off the DVD or touching anything, I pulled the cable out of the back of the TV and plugged into the 7200 and selected that input and didn't see the THX shadow. The 3910 can't tell what is plugged into it via component can it??? It's sending the same signal regardless of what is on the other end...right?

The only reason this bothers me is that I can't use the "HDMI/DVI BLACK LEVEL" in it's ENHANCED setting since my projector then cuts off the lowest levels of blacks entirely. Does anyone out there actually use the ENHANCED setting with their projector? Is it worth my time messing around to get it to work or am I just better off using the NORMAL setting (which looks great by the way...but we always want to squeeze just a little more performance out of this stuff :-).

-TIM

Timbo21

12-05-05, 09:30 AM

pepar

12-05-05, 10:37 AM

In regards to enhanced black I didn't find any improvements over normal once I had balanced contrast & brightness. I believe the black level on enhanced is 7.5 ire, whereas it's 0 on normal. This is for the UK PAL system, so it may be different values for you guys. I think it's for use if you have a mismatch in black volatges between player & display, but don't quote me :) .

I know there was a problem with the 3910s passing BTB, but can't remember if it was a firmware fix, or if it had to be sent back to Denon. Have you got latest firmware? If it isn't firmware thing then I should think Denon should fix it even if it's out of warranty, since it would have been a problem from the start, and Denon state that the 3910 passes BTB. Anyway, hopefully it won't come to that.

T.
Just like the whole world EXCEPT the US knows that "football" is played with a round ball, the whole world sets black level to 0 IRE. The US plays football with an oblong ball and sets black level to 7.5 IRE. Go figure. If you're mixing gear - US & UK - then I have no idea which setting you'd settle on. I guess it'd be whichever one "works" and is able to be calibrated properly with test DVDs/gear.

bucky63

12-08-05, 10:36 AM

Probably redundent. And I'm guessing the quality of what is outputted via the 6-channel analog outs is far better than the "normal" stereo outputs. (But that's just a guess.)

I believe they would be redundant only if you turned the "6-channel source direct" to "on" in the 3910's audio menu. If Source Direct is on then the sound quality should be exactly the same between the Stereo outs and the FR & FL of the 6-channel outs (same type of DACs).

If you have the "source direct" set to "off", then the 6-channel output are set and controlled by the 3910's speaker setup menu. At a minium the difference between the 2-channel analog outs and the FR & FL of the 6-channel outs is the time delay based on the speaker distance from the listener even if the front speakers are set to "Large".

VIDEOKNG

12-09-05, 03:18 PM

I'm still waiting for shipment of my 3910 here in NY. My first one arrived damaged back at Halloween and the unit has been back-ordered from Denon ever since.

At least I'm assured on getting the latest model and updates included but man are these things rare this time of year.

My Denon dealer thinks it may take till January now.

ezervoud

12-09-05, 04:58 PM

Does anybody have a clue on when we should expect 3910's follow-on product? :confused:

JohnGZ28

12-09-05, 06:02 PM

Does anybody have a clue on when we should expect 3910's follow on product? :confused:

What's a "follow on" product? :confused:

ezervoud

12-09-05, 06:08 PM

What's a "follow on" product? :confused:
The product that will substitute 3910, like dvd-1920 was for dvd-1910.

JohnGZ28

12-09-05, 06:24 PM

The product that will substitute 3910, like dvd-1920 was for dvd-1910.

Hopefully nothing soon.

I hope Denon R&D is hard at work trying to make a relatively cheap HD/Blu Ray universal player. :)

ezervoud

12-09-05, 06:32 PM

Hopefully nothing soon.

I hope Denon R&D is hard at work trying to make a relatively cheap HD/Blu Ray universal player. :)

I like optimistic people, but this sounds too good and too soon to be true :)
I've "heard" rumors about 3920 without getting any specs and I thought that this thread would be the best place to ask.

Sam S

12-09-05, 08:00 PM

Does anybody have a clue on when we should expect 3910's follow-on product? :confused:

We're not likely to see any replacement until the Blu-ray/HD-DVD thing gets a bit more sorted out.

HDKing

12-09-05, 08:19 PM

I have a problem with my 3910 that happens only on a few discs, but I'm wondering if anyone's heard of it or has had it happened to them. On some discs when I put them in, it sounds as if the disc just keeps spinning without being able to find a starting point. It makes a loud rattling sound and spins at a VERY high speed. I received Shaun Of The Dead as a gift and returned it and got a new one. The new disc didn't have the problem, but now I have a few others that share this same problem. These discs play fine in other DVD players, but the 3910 does this everytime I put them in it.

porshah

12-09-05, 09:44 PM

I had a similar problem reading DVD's and SACD's. Sometimes I got it to work by opening and closing the tray several times. Eventually got fed up and had to bring it to Denon. I didn't pay $1K for a player to put up with that. I was lucky, I live about 10 miles from Denon's NJ headquarters, and brought it there in person. They repaired it in a week.

Timbo21

12-10-05, 10:54 AM

I've heard that the 3920 is due Spring time

BillP

12-10-05, 01:35 PM

I've heard that the 3920 is due Spring time
That sounds about right (the 3910 will be 2 years old).

VIDEOKNG

12-10-05, 06:02 PM

The next player I buy after the 3910 will be a universal (if necessary) HD-DVD player. That may take a few years though.

Paul Klassen

12-10-05, 07:05 PM

I dont know if this was covered earlier or not but I asked this question before.

It does not say in the manual but it will indeed play these DVDs flawlessly.

Paul

pepar

12-10-05, 10:41 PM

The next player I buy after the 3910 will be a universal (if necessary) HD-DVD player. That may take a few years though.
I'm with you and the 3910 should see us through quite nicely, thank you.

ezervoud

12-11-05, 03:26 AM

If you put in to the equation the industry's new irrationality called HD-DVD/Blue Ray war, DVDs and DVD players are here to stay for years to come.

BillP

12-11-05, 08:02 AM

I predict it will be 3 years before the format war is over, prices for the players and the discs are reasonable, and there is a wide selection of classic old movies in the winning format. The 3910 will do nicely until then indeed, and beyond for audio at least!

pepar

12-11-05, 09:55 AM

nakhter

12-11-05, 08:40 PM

My DVD front display has gone completely blank, it does not
display any information about DVD, CD, etc. on the panel.

The player seem to be playing the DVD/CD fine but can't display any
information about the DVD on the display panel. Is there any dimmer or
setup that makes the display panel go dark ?

Any one experienced similar problem with the set ?

Thanks
Nadeem

P.S. When I open the loading tray the front does display "Open".

Don1959

12-11-05, 08:58 PM

nakhter:

The 3910 has a pure direct mode that shuts off sections of the player.... the final cycle shuts off the display too.... try pressing the pure direct select button and see if that helps..

Don

nakhter

12-11-05, 10:50 PM

Quick Question :

Select pure direct from the setup menu and set it to "ON" ? or is there a button
on the box which can be turned ON and OFF ?

Thanks

Don1959

12-12-05, 12:17 AM

I use The remote buttons, lower right, DIM and PURE DIRECT SELECT can cycle the display off.

Don

nakhter

12-12-05, 09:23 AM

Thanks!

The display was off so I turned it on, that was good. But now the
display only shows info if I press any button and then it goes away.

Is there a setting to keep it 'ON' at all time, could not find the setting in the
manual.

Thanks
Nadeem

KAKARI

12-12-05, 01:08 PM

OK, Any solutions for the BTB problem with the 3910 in HDMI ? On my HS60, i can't see the BTB on the THX OPTIMIZER

HELP

Don1959

12-12-05, 01:30 PM

Nadeem:

Make sure the display is at its brightest... the DIM button cycles through the brightness levels, including off.

Then make sure that PURE DIRECT is in NORMAL mode (has four setting: NORMAL, 1, 2, ALL OFF).

Your display should be on all the time now......?

If not, try doing a hard power off with the small power button ( not the big standby button), wait a few seconds and power back on.....

If none of this works.... sorry.... I am out of ideas....

Good luck

Don

tranle

12-12-05, 07:59 PM

I just wanted to know if any of you have problem playing the DVD-Audio from the Eagles: Hotel California, the stereo play list.

I don't have any problem playing the multi-chanel play list. So I am trying to figure if it is:
a) my 3910 is broken.
b) my 3910 is not compatible with encoding on the stereo play list.
c) That stereo DVD-Audio play list is broken.

Thanks.

JBaumgart

12-12-05, 08:37 PM

Just tried it - works fine on my player.

VIDEOKNG

12-12-05, 09:26 PM

My first copy of that Eagles DVDA went defective on me and sounded like a scratchy record when played in the stereo DVDA mode.

I had to swap it out.

That was on a Panasonic RP91.

pawrampe

12-14-05, 03:27 PM

I have a problem.

The 3910 has a habit of displaying dark backgrounds/shadows as being very grainy. This is most apparent with a dark backround. The black shade is grainy and the grain moves around, and in sections, blocky.

I am using the HDMI connection, outputting at 1080i. I have changed it from RGB to Y CR B (whatever it is). EVERYTHING else is set to 0. Since changing the HDMI output, things are better, but not 100%.

For example, in the very beginning of Starwars Episode 1, when the two Jedi's arrive on the blockade ship/station, you can see this in the corner of the doorways, in the shadow. Space looks fine, it's the shadows that are driving me nuts. This is not the only movie that does this.

What is this called?
Any suggestions?

PooperScooper

12-14-05, 04:02 PM

What display and how did you calibrate? It could be MPEG compression noise, macroblocking, improper calibration, or issues in the display's video processing. Or a combination of all of the above. :)

larry

pawrampe

12-14-05, 04:03 PM

PooperScooper

12-14-05, 04:20 PM

pawrampe

12-14-05, 04:31 PM

I'd make sure the calibration is correct and then see what happens. Also, the 3910 does have the Faroudja chip that can cause macroblocking, but I wouldn't blame it until all other possibilities are eliminated. Does it happen when feeding the Sony 480p?

larry

I did change it to 720p and found the same issue, and the colors were off comparatively to 1080i by a hair.

I'd say that it is fairly well calibrated. I had the set calibrated for one of the inputs, saw what was done, and was not at all impressed that I could not do the same and for far far less. I'm fairly picky, but I'd say that the TV itslef is operating properly and calibrated.

I have minimized the issue by selecting the following...

HDMI Black Enhancement is on
Brightness +2

and those are now the only two settings that are on. Is what I think I'm seeing Macroblocking? Too many terms. I read in the manual that the Black Enhancement is to reduce/eliminate floating black (whatever that is). I tried increasing the DNR, but that had no effect.

JohnGZ28

12-14-05, 05:24 PM

Sony Qualia 006

DirectTV does not display the same issues... :(

You may want to post your question in the Ultra High end forum in the Qualia 006 thread and try and get a reply from DOCDVD.

pawrampe

12-15-05, 10:39 AM

Very good news, at least for me...

Here are the settings that have eliminated the problem completely...

HDMI Format - 720p
HDMI output - RGB
Black Enhancer - Off
Progressive Mode - Auto 2
Contrast +2
Brightness +4
Values in the SET Menu - 0/0/0
DNR - Set to 0. It does little to remove consistant random noise.
Noise reduction in the TV itself - Med or High. Clears up noise in solid greys.

The shadows look great now. Boy were they disturbing before...

Sam S

12-15-05, 07:38 PM

VIDEOKNG

12-15-05, 11:57 PM

Anyone else waiting for a backorder of a 3910?

My first shipment of the 3910 came in damaged so my Denon dealer ordered a replacment but that was back on November 1st.

He says Denon is backordered on the 3910. I have to wait as I've based my whole HT on having the 3910 mate with the AVR3806.

I was just wondering if anybody else is waiting for a new one? At this rate I may end up with a 3920! :rolleyes:

IwantmyTHX

12-16-05, 01:21 AM

rmongiovi

12-16-05, 01:35 AM

Several months ago, Kris Deering reported the best HDMI output format for this player was Y Cb Cr instead of RGB.

Why is this? What is the difference between the two as it relates to the HDMI output?

A bit of googling seems to indicate that if you pick RGB you get 8 bits per, and if you pick Y Cb Cr you get 12.

More bits, of course, only equals more discrete color values if your display can handle it, but providing the extra resolution can't hurt....