Just FYI for those looking to buy this player...

pretty decent sale on Costco.com with lifetime warranty:Here! :D (http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11098980&whse=&topnav=&browse=&s=1)


980.00 for me out the door and from a authorized Denon dealer. :D :D :D
I feel like I stole this thing.

You guys trying to get the thread closed?

You guys trying to get the thread closed?


true.dat!

lets move on to the next subject..... :)

Every DVD-A I've tried will play the 5.1 track automatically if instead of hitting open/close with the tray open, you just hit play instead. Of course that won't help you if you wanted the stereo track, but I think I've only actually used the DVD-A video menus once & that was because I was curious. Hitting play will work on the Talking Heads dualies FWIW, although I'll admit I'm tempted to find the imports to avoid Dual-Disc entirely as well...

Anyway try hitting play w/the tray open & that may just avoid any temptations of playing the pseudo-red book side...

Edit: Mea culpa - came home & played one of the Talking Head dualies and realized it was an odd exception case. Hitting play with the tray open plays the 2 channel loop. Although if I hit Stop & then Play, the 5.1 mix comes up and plays fine. My apologies for the erroneous original data - still likely better than the pseudo-CD, but mildly complex to get there, although easy enough to avoid the video menu if you want...

That's because the TH Brick set is misauthored (a statement I first heard uttered by Charles Hansen of Ayre fame). Most universals will act as you describe, playing the multichannel group if "play" is pressed with the tray open. TH Brick is an anomaly. It's possibly why its playback has been problematic on several players...but that's a topic that's for another thread (and has been beat to death).

For anyone looking, the Talking Heads discs are available at Amazon's UK site.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/search-handle-form/026-8082056-9299617

J. (Still trying to find Elbow's "Cast of Thousands" CD/DVD for Region 1) :confused:

ps- a lot of Ohioans up in here! :D

Are those discs 96/24 for the DVDA portion? and are they for sure DVDA and not DVDV DD 5.1?

Are those discs 96/24 for the DVDA portion? and are they for sure DVDA and not DVDV DD 5.1?
HMV indicates that they are indeed 96/24 for both surround and stereo on the DVD-A disc. I don't know how credible that info is, but here's the link: http://www.hmv.co.uk/hmvweb/displayProductDetails.do?ctx=12;-1;-1;-1&sku=444482.

J.

That looks right, I'll have to order one and see, and then maybe get the rest.

Be sure to post your findings! :)

J.

FWIW... I have the TH Brick set (came out in the fall as an 8 disc set, then in Jan-Feb as individual dualdiscs in US and Europe has cd+dvd-a), and there are many many posts about them in the surround forum, among others. What do you want to know? 24/96 MPL for both stereo and 5.1. Winner of many surround awards. Incredible surround mixes, addtl tracks on each. The 5.1 Burning Down the House Alternate Mix is a demo delight.

You just answered my questions, thanks.

I just wanted to make sure that the European releases were also 96/24...not just simply 5.1 DVD. I'd rather have the European discs if they are indeed Redbook CD and DVD-A w/ video instead of DualDisc (bad word). It cooks my nuts (think Xmas song) that a disc won't play in the 3910. So what if I can flip it over...I shouldn't have to...DualDisc just blows. :p

J.

I ordered 3 of them from Amazon.uk, I'll let you know.

I just wanted to make sure that the European releases were also 96/24...not just simply 5.1 DVD. I'd rather have the European discs if they are indeed Redbook CD and DVD-A w/ video instead of DualDisc (bad word). It cooks my nuts (think Xmas song) that a disc won't play in the 3910. So what if I can flip it over...I shouldn't have to...DualDisc just blows. :p

J.


Yes, all the 'double-disc' TH sets are true DVD-A. Indentical to the US releases except two discs instead of one. I got mine all from amazon.uk

Excellent...:) I'm all over it!

J.

I'm trying out a 3910 right now.

This thread is so long, i would need a wrap up of important things to know.

I'm connected thru HDMI 720p to a CRT FP and using Mch sacd thru analog out. It is a 2004 production unit.

1- Do i need a firmware upgrade of any kind ? IF yes whre can i find it ?
2- What about the enhanced black feature ?

Seems to have some stange navigation issue in setup as i cannot get into Mch speaker setup.

Thx

I'm trying out a 3910 right now.

This thread is so long, i would need a wrap up of important things to know.

I'm connected thru HDMI 720p to a CRT FP and using Mch sacd thru analog out. It is a 2004 production unit.

1- Do i need a firmware upgrade of any kind ? IF yes whre can i find it ?
2- What about the enhanced black feature ?

Seems to have some stange navigation issue in setup as i cannot get into Mch speaker setup.

Thx

Give one of these places a call regarding the firmware they may be able to help you.

HECOTRON INTERNATIONAL INC.
1370 PONCETMONTREAL,QCH3M 3A4
514-736-1313


FILLION ELECTRONIQUE
5690 SHERBROOKE ESTMONTREAL,QCH1N 1A1
514-254-6041

I'm assuming you purchased the 3910 in CA. Unfortunately Denon Canada does not have any firmware info on the website.

As for the enhanced black most people don't use it but you can always flip back and forth to see if you like it better.

I took the unit at Fillion, so i'm ok.

Anyway, it's going back. Compared to an HTPC, PQ sucks. I can see large area of MB in the black scenes.

Sound wise, it's ok, but not for the price.

I took the unit at Fillion, so i'm ok.

Anyway, it's going back. Compared to an HTPC, PQ sucks. I can see large area of MB in the black scenes.

Sound wise, it's ok, but not for the price.

It definitely is not a unit for everyone. In home testing is the only way to find out.

I have to admit that I have not tried the CD side of these dual-discs in the 3910 but why would one want to? The hi-rez mch DVD-A side is excellent. Or are you just curious?

Kal
As I realized this weekend, the other reason I'd much rather have the separate Redbook CD and DVD-A combo (European version) of the Talking Heads discs instead of the DualDisc is because the bonus tracks (at least on Remain in Light) are only on the "CD" side of the DualDisc and not accessible with the 3910.

J.

I bought the Brick dualdisc set so I didn't have a choice back then. But one way around it is to rip the "cd" side to your harddrive, then burn a real cd. Some may even say it sounds better with a nice EAC rip (discussion for a different thread entirely). :)

I realized this has probably asked a million times but after hours of searching this thread I can't find the exact answer I'm looking for. I am using my 3910 with a 4306 receiver and a hitachi plasma. My question is: if i run HDMI from the 3910 to the 4306 and then HDMI from the 4306 to the plasma should I also use the denon link cable form my sound or just use the HDMI for sound and video? If I hook up both will the 3910 automatically "sense" the disc and send the audio out through the appropriate path? ie HDMI for DVD and denon link for DVD-A/SACD? Thanks in advance for helping me understand this.

I have the same setup and use the Denon Link cable for sound. You have to select DLIII in your setup for it to work. The sound is really incredible. I have both hooked up, and the system uses Denon Link all of the time for sound.

Diverace

I have searched, and maybe I overlooked it, but I have not been able to find any posts where someone has indicated whether they have successfully connected a 3910 via Firewire to a Pioneer receiver (mine is a 49TXi). I am interested if anyone has successfully done this, and if they have what issues (if any) have you encountered.

I am thinking of purchasing a B-Stock 3910 from Dakmart (who seems to be a Denon authorized reseller).

Any information would be GREATLY appreciated.

Thank you
Bryan

I have searched, and maybe I overlooked it, but I have not been able to find any posts where someone has indicated whether they have successfully connected a 3910 via Firewire to a Pioneer receiver (mine is a 49TXi). I am interested if anyone has successfully done this, and if they have what issues (if any) have you encountered.

I am thinking of purchasing a B-Stock 3910 from Dakmart (who seems to be a Denon authorized reseller).

Any information would be GREATLY appreciated.

Thank you
Bryan

I don't think I've read of any issues using a Firewire connection.... I don't think you'll have any problems.... although I don't use it myself.

Here is a post from a few pages back.

"Am I going to run into any "proprietary" connection issues with the 3910's IEEE audio connection? I ended up going with a Pioneer receiver and plan on using it's IEEE connection with the 3910 for the multi-channel stuff."

No.
I have a 3910 set up with a 59TXi. Ran iLink (IEEE/Firewire) from the Denon to the Pioneer without any special menu setup with NO problem.

As a matter of fact - the quality of the audio was markedly better than standard digital, through either coaxial or optical cables (high-quality cables used). In virtually every way the quality is better than any other digital reproduction I've heard since 1982, including multi-thousand dollar systems. There are some serious technical reasons why iLink should be better and they turn out to be valid and audible.

I am thinking of purchasing a B-Stock 3910 from Dakmart (who seems to be a Denon authorized reseller).

Any information would be GREATLY appreciated.
They are. I bought a B-Stock 2910 from them. Buy with confidence.

Hi all...
I have been debating many upgrades to my system.

The 3910 is one (as I have the Denon 3805 receiver).

I was wondering if anyone who has this DVD player also has the NEC 50xr5?
If so, how is the combo?
Any MB issues? What are you feeding it... 480P, or an upconverted signal?

Thanks in advance!

shane

Shane, I also have the 3805 and was waiting for the new generation denon dvd players, which I hope will include the denon-link on lower-end models as well (an hypothetical 2920, let's say). Do you think it's worth it to buy a 3910 now? When is this going to be replaced any way, these players have been around for two years, that's an eternity :)

Actually badsatan...
I'm totally with you on this. I even asked a salesman today whether or not he knew of something new for Denon in this vein. He knew of nothing and checked his computer, but it showed nothing.

You are right. This model has been out for a long time, and is in need of a replacement. I could wait... I guess. I've waited a long time already. I originally bought the 3805 in order to connect to a D-link DVD player like the 3910. But I'm jonesin' for a new dvd player and it's a choice between this or the Pioneer elite DV-79avi.

Time will tell, I guess.

Still curious about the MB issue with the NEC panel, though.

shane



Shane, I also have the 3805 and was waiting for the new generation denon dvd players, which I hope will include the denon-link on lower-end models as well (an hypothetical 2920, let's say). Do you think it's worth it to buy a 3910 now? When is this going to be replaced any way, these players have been around for two years, that's an eternity :)

Actually badsatan...
I'm totally with you on this. I even asked a salesman today whether or not he knew of something new for Denon in this vein. He knew of nothing and checked his computer, but it showed nothing.

You are right. This model has been out for a long time, and is in need of a replacement. I could wait... I guess. I've waited a long time already. I originally bought the 3805 in order to connect to a D-link DVD player like the 3910. But I'm jonesin' for a new dvd player and it's a choice between this or the Pioneer elite DV-79avi.

Time will tell, I guess.
There was talk on another thread - 2910 maybe - maybe even this thread - that Denon will not be intoducing ANY new models due to BD/HD-DVD being just around the corner. The poster said he read it somewhere, but never followed through when challanged - by me - to provide a link. Nonetheless, it's not so far fetched for them to at least freeze further intos until they see how the next gen is going to do. Another point I'd like to make is this: Denon's line is "complete" right now and, perhaps, needs no updating. Just what could be improved on either the 2910 or 3910 and not increase the price? And the 5910 is certainly all it could be.

There will be at least one newer player from Denon at CEDIA but, afaik, nothing announced for HD-DVD or BD yet.

Kal

There will be at least one newer player from Denon at CEDIA but, afaik, nothing announced for HD-DVD or BD yet.

Kal
Any thoughts on where it will fit into their line - top, bottom, somewhere in between?

I recall reading somewhere on this forum where Kris Deering said that the last top of the line SD DVD player Denon will make is the current 5910. That certainly leaves open the possibility for a less expensive model to be brought out.

I recall reading somewhere on this forum where Kris Deering said that the last top of the line SD DVD player Denon will make is the current 5910. That certainly leaves open the possibility for a less expensive model to be brought out.
Yeah, that's what I was remembering; somebody posted that Kris "said", but no one ever linked to where Kris said it. And Kris never popped in to straighten us out on the matter.

Yeah, that's what I was remembering; somebody posted that Kris "said", but no one ever linked to where Kris said it. And Kris never popped in to straighten us out on the matter.
The exact quote is in the link below, he says "supposedly", and being that he has worked closely with Denon on their DVD products I would tend to believe his input.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7048914#post7048914
Denon 5910 Owners Thread - AVS Forum

The exact quote is in the link below, he says "supposedly", and being that he has worked closely with Denon on their DVD products I would tend to believe his input.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7048914#post7048914
Denon 5910 Owners Thread - AVS Forum
Thanks, keenan, for firming that up.

Here's the link to DenonUK with the new 5910A(1080p over HDMI)

Denon A1XVA(1080p over HDMI) (http://www.denon.co.uk/site/frames_main.php?funk=main&main=prod&sub=1&Pid=268&MID=3&action=detail)

http://www.denon.de/site/datadir/gr/1_gr_av_DVDA1XVA_PSilver.jpg

1080p output via HDMI. World's First Consumer Product to be Powered with the Silcon Optix Realta chip with Hollywood Quality Video (HQV) processing by Teranex World's First DVD player to feature 10-Bit DVDO Professional Scaler Exclusive 10-bit DPIC (DENON Pixel Image Correction)
THX Ultra-Certification
DVI-D and HDMI Outputs with selectable 480p/720p/1080i/1080p output and simultaneous output (at same scale rate)
2 sets of Component Video outputs, 1 with Gold BNC connections - continuous 480p/576p output even with DVI or HDMI outputs activated
Built-in Dolby Digital, DTS, DVD-Audio and SACD decoders with 5.1 analog outputs
Highest quality 24-bit, 192-kHz Audio DACs on all channels
Dedicated and discrete PCM-1792 DAC’s in differential mode for 2 channel outputs
HDCD decoding
Advanced AL24 Processing for 2 channel playback, and AL24 Processing Plus for 5.1 channel playback
DENON LINK 3rd edition with SACD playback.
Two IEEE-1394 Outputs
Pure Direct Modes
3 box, 5 block internal layout to isolate analog, digital and video circuits.

But that is just an upgrade to the current 5910 (or A1XV in Europe). The upgrade is available separately and costs about 300€. I don't know if it's only firmware or if there are some parts to be replaced also.

Here's the link to DenonUK with the new 5910A(1080p over HDMI)

Denon A1XVA(1080p over HDMI) (http://www.denon.co.uk/site/frames_main.php?funk=main&main=prod&sub=1&Pid=268&MID=3&action=detail)

http://www.denon.de/site/datadir/gr/1_gr_av_DVDA1XVA_PSilver.jpg
<drool>

But that is just an upgrade to the current 5910 (or A1XV in Europe). The upgrade is available separately and costs about 300€. I don't know if it's only firmware or if there are some parts to be replaced also.
Yes, I think it's called a 5910ci here in the US. It a 5910 with 1080p output added. Currently sold 5910s should already have the upgrade.

Keenan-

Any word on those TalkingHeads discs yet?

J.

I have the discs but I sent my 5900 to Denon for the drive/laser fix, so I have nothing to play them on. The CD versions work fine in my car though. Hopefully I'll have the 5900 back in a week and I'll let you know.

That new 1080p capable 5910A is interesting, but it looks so silly with only a single disk tray, this massive player, and only support for one disk? boo! I'd like a 3 or 5 disk tray please, then you could stick entire seasons of TV shows in there :).

Course I'm waiting to see Denon's (I HOPE) Blue-Ray/HD-DVD combo player, perhaps the DVD-4910 ? Who Knows!

- D

Has anybody heard about a possible f/w upgrade to the 3910 that would enable 480i over HDMI? I am using a VP30 and to my eyes, I get a slightly better picture using the component output at 480i rather than the HDMI output at 480p (at least on certain DVD's). It is not huge, but I'd love to be able to compare 480i over HDMI esp. since I am getting the ABT102 deinterlacer daughtercard for the VP30.

Unless I'm mistaken, Denon hasn't come out with any upgrades for the 3910 since DL3 landed. Nor have I heard anything from my local dealer.

J.

Any word of a 3920 model coming out this year?

Any word of a 3920 model coming out this year?
Not yet. They usually update their models every 2 years, so it's time for a new one, unless they decide to focus on high res instead. Since there is no new Faroudja chip yet (w/o MB), there's really no point updating the 3910 at this time, with high def on the horizon.

I know this player has always been really really SLOW to respond to commands, but I have just lived with that!!! :mad: But now I have just made a Compilation of video clips from favourite movies using Shrink Reauthor. When every clip finishes I have a 3/4 min long pause before the next clip appears on the screen!!! This is like a freeze frame of the last scene for a number of seconds before my next clip appears. Its the Denon being so SLOW to recognized the next video clip!

When I put the disc into my other two cheaper players at home there is no LONG PAUSE between clips at all! They just move straight into the next clip smoothly and quick! Thats great just what I intended when I compiled all these clips together!

I just want the spead of my Denon to do the same as the cheaper players in recognizing the clips I compiled on DVD?

Can I fix this please :mad: HELP!!!!

I'm thinking about exchanging my 79avi player for the denon 3910. Do you guys know if there is any MB issues with this player hooked up to a pioneer 930hd plasma?

Unless I'm mistaken, Denon hasn't come out with any upgrades for the 3910 since DL3 landed. Nor have I heard anything from my local dealer.

J.

Suddenly Mr. Hahn I want to leave your Island.

The last info out of Denon was from CES and those upgrades haven't been released yet.

I'm thinking about exchanging my 79avi player for the denon 3910. Do you guys know if there is any MB issues with this player hooked up to a pioneer 930hd plasma?
You better try it out in a store since plasmas seem to be especially prone to MB.

Suddenly Mr. Hahn I want to leave your Island.
???????????

The last info out of Denon was from CES and those upgrades haven't been released yet.
I downloaded the DL3 upgrade a few months ago.

Kal

???????????

Kal

I should have copied Jason's sig. in my post.

His sig. is

"Man...you come right out of a comic book!"

I replied

"Suddenly Mr. Hahn I want to leave your island."

Both lines are from from Jim Kelly's character in the movie Enter the Dragon.

I downloaded the DL3 upgrade a few months ago.
Were there any other changes/improvements than the DL3? I passed on it at the time because I don't use Denon Link, but if video or audio was tweaked, I'd do the upgrade.

I should have copied Jason's sig. in my post.

His sig. is

"Man...you come right out of a comic book!"

I replied

"Suddenly Mr. Hahn I want to leave your island."

Both lines are from from Jim Kelly's character in the movie Enter the Dragon.
And to finish the thought...

Williams: Mr Han, suddenly I wish to leave your island.
Han: It is not possible.
Williams: Bullshit, Mr. Han-man!

Classic...!

J.

And another gem...

Han: It is defeat that you must learn to prepare for.
Williams: Man, I won't waste my time with it. When it comes, I won't even notice it.
Han: Oh, How so?
Williams: I'll be too busy looking good!

Leave it to Jim Kelly...:D

J.

Were there any other changes/improvements than the DL3? I passed on it at the time because I don't use Denon Link, but if video or audio was tweaked, I'd do the upgrade.
Don't recall.

Kal

Any word of a 3920 model coming out this year?
It will be the "3930" and it's supposed to come out in July.

I'm limited on cash. Is getting the DVD-3910 for about $700 worth it over a Panasonic S97/Oppo? It costs $500 more...is there any way any of you guys could describe how much picture quality I would be gaining? Any analogies or just experiences would be appreciated.

It will be the "3930" and it's supposed to come out in July.
I was informed no replacement for the 3910 on the way, but there is for the 2910.

Was going to buy a 3910 in the next few weeks, but now not so sure aarrrggghhh.
In the industry, so get to buy at cost but still do not want to waste the money if a new player is around the corner.

Any further info available on a 3930 at all?

I'm limited on cash. Is getting the DVD-3910 for about $700 worth it over a Panasonic S97/Oppo? It costs $500 more...is there any way any of you guys could describe how much picture quality I would be gaining? Any analogies or just experiences would be appreciated.

I tried out both players on my display and the Denon is definitely above the Oppo (I actually went with the Sony 9100ES). It's worth the extra cost to me, but only you can decide for yourself. Maybe try them both out and keep the one you perfer.

I was informed no replacement for the 3910 on the way, but there is for the 2910.

Was going to buy a 3910 in the next few weeks, but now not so sure aarrrggghhh.
In the industry, so get to buy at cost but still do not want to waste the money if a new player is around the corner.

Any further info available on a 3930 at all?
Even w/o details on a successor - or even confirmation of its existence - the 3910 is a great universal player. Normally, I'm in favor of procrastination when it comes to acquiring technology, but this is not one of those times. If you need a (new) player now and have the money now, GO FOR IT NOW!

It will be the "3930" and it's supposed to come out in July.
I heard CEDIA (September).

Kal

I'm having problems finding a 10 meter HDMI cable that will work with my 3910 to my Panisonic 700u projector. Before I purchase another I would like to know if anyone has found a cable that will make that long of a run? My current cable (Cobalt) flickers some. Has anyone tried Ram or Gefen?

I have my 3910 connected to my DVDO VP30 with a 1M cable, but my VP30 is driving my Marantz VP12S2 through a 75' (23M) HDMI cable. The cable is from BetterCables.com and is identified by "Product Part #: HDMI-23-HH"; I run 720P and the picture is pixel perfect.

I'm having problems finding a 10 meter HDMI cable that will work with my 3910 to my Panisonic 700u projector. Before I purchase another I would like to know if anyone has found a cable that will make that long of a run? My current cable (Cobalt) flickers some. Has anyone tried Ram or Gefen?
I buy from RAM occasionally, but check the seating of the connector. And make sure the cable isn't "pulling" on the connection. HDMI cables, especially long ones, tend to be stiff and stubborn.

I tried out both players on my display and the Denon is definitely above the Oppo (I actually went with the Sony 9100ES). It's worth the extra cost to me, but only you can decide for yourself. Maybe try them both out and keep the one you perfer.

Yeah that's what I'm going to do. Unless there's a night and day difference I'll be selling the 3910. If anyone is interested shoot me a pm.

I'm having problems finding a 10 meter HDMI cable that will work with my 3910 to my Panisonic 700u projector. Before I purchase another I would like to know if anyone has found a cable that will make that long of a run? My current cable (Cobalt) flickers some. Has anyone tried Ram or Gefen?


I have been using a 10m hdmi from bettercables.com with the ae700u and various dvd players (currently a 3910) for over a year now and never had a signal problem. Great picture, no flicker whatsoever. Good luck,

Scott

Can someone verify for me which Denon 3910 build dates do not pass blacker than black?

My recollection of the dates was around Sept thru Nov 2004. Do a search in this thread to confirm.

Can someone verify for me which Denon 3910 build dates do not pass blacker than black?
It's also easy to check for using the THX optimizer included on many DVDs (such as Star Wars).

It will be the "3930" and it's supposed to come out in July.

s2silver,

Could you elaborate on Denon's next DVDPs? I heard that 2930 is also coming. Do you know the price points?

I haven't heard anything about a "2930" but the DVD 3930 is supposed to include many of the features of the 5910, but on a 3910 chassis AND closer to the 3910 price point. Of course, it's not built yet so much can change, but that's what I hear from well-placed sources.
It seems to be market forces at work: HD and/or BRD will become the state-of-the-art within the next year, so the best SD players become more affordable. Obviously, that's also a boon to the music lovers/audiophiles among us who buy the Denon as much for its music playing qualities, including SACD and DVD-A.

Heard anything on the 3930 using the HQV processor instead of Faroudja?

I haven't heard anything about a "2930" but the DVD 3930 is supposed to include many of the features of the 5910, but on a 3910 chassis AND closer to the 3910 price point. Of course, it's not built yet so much can change, but that's what I hear from well-placed sources.
It seems to be market forces at work: HD and/or BRD will become the state-of-the-art within the next year, so the best SD players become more affordable. Obviously, that's also a boon to the music lovers/audiophiles among us who buy the Denon as much for its music playing qualities, including SACD and DVD-A.
Do you know whether they will use the 5910 scaling chip (rather than the Faroudja one currently in the 3910) and the 5910 audio DACs? If so, it might be worth an upgrade (just don't tell my wife).

Do you know whether they will use the 5910 scaling chip (rather than the Faroudja one currently in the 3910) and the 5910 audio DACs? If so, it might be worth an upgrade (just don't tell my wife).

What I heard was that 3930 would be similar to 3910 and a little bit cheaper. But I don't know that it is still true.

Heard anything on the 3930 using the HQV processor instead of Faroudja?
Yup. That too. ;)

I'm thinking about exchanging my 79avi player for the denon 3910. Do you guys know if there is any MB issues with this player hooked up to a pioneer 930hd plasma?

Why are you thinking about going from the 79 to the 3910?

I can get both players heavily discounted, the Denon costing $53 more than the Pioneer.

Having a hell of a time deciding.

Would go for the Denon in a second if I weren't so afraid of MB. Am leaning to Pio.

Why are you thinking about going from the 79 to the 3910?
Would go for the Denon in a second if I weren't so afraid of MB. Am leaning to Pio.
If you take a look at the Secret's reviews, you'll see the answer to your question. MB is very display dependent. What display do you have? I've never seen MB with the 3910 on my Sammy HLN DLP.

Thanks Bill

Was looking at reviews last night and I now realize it was the 2910 I had searched by mistake.

Tired I guess....long week;)

The 2910 review on Secrets doesn't say much but, having gone back this morning, the 3910 is very good. Much more useful info.

My display is the Hitachi 50VS810 LCD rear projector.

Am also somewhat tempted by the 2910 due to price. Though I want the player for SACD & DVDA it will primarily be a movie spinner.

Thanks Bill

Was looking at reviews last night and I now realize it was the 2910 I had searched by mistake.

Tired I guess....long week;)

The 2910 review on Secrets doesn't say much but, having gone back this morning, the 3910 is very good. Much more useful info.

My display is the Hitachi 50VS810 LCD rear projector.

Am also somewhat tempted by the 2910 due to price. Though I want the player for SACD & DVDA it will primarily be a movie spinner.
I have not read of any MB complaints with LCDs, so you should be safe with the 2910 or 3910.

Well I've decided to sell my DVD-3910...pm if interested. What DVD player should I look at strictly for 480p? Is there anything I should look for in particular spec wise?

Well I've decided to sell my DVD-3910...pm if interested. What DVD player should I look at strictly for 480p? Is there anything I should look for in particular spec wise?
If you provide the reasons you're not happy with it, it would be easier to give advice for an alternative. The Pioneer 59ai or 79ai, and Onkyo SP1000 are the players most similar to the 3910 (but without any MB).

I have just picked up a 3910 from Audio Visions (a high end store in my area). I paid $1500 for this sucker and find that it may not even pass some tests my $200 Toshiba can pass...blacker than black. Build date was Sept 2004. What really sticks in my craw is that a friend bought his from Crutchfield with a build date of October 2005 with Denon link 3 already updated and it took 3 days for delivery. I have waited 1.5 months for mine. I was told there was such a "demand". According to Denon website and my serial number Denon link 3 is not installed, I will have to do a software update.

Is it true the blacker than black issues were units manufactured Sept 2004 to Dec 2004?

Sounds about right on the dates. Return it and ask for a new one?
Seems strange that they are selling you a "new" one with that build date.

Eric (my Audio Visions rep) should know better.

My eval unit from Crutchfield (went eventually with a Marantz DV9600 from Eric) had a Oct 2005 build date, and DL3 installed.

I have just picked up a 3910 from Audio Visions (a high end store in my area). I paid $1500 for this sucker and find that it may not even pass some tests my $200 Toshiba can pass...blacker than black. Build date was Sept 2004. What really sticks in my craw is that a friend bought his from Crutchfield with a build date of October 2005 with Denon link 3 already updated and it took 3 days for delivery. I have waited 1.5 months for mine. I was told there was such a "demand". According to Denon website and my serial number Denon link 3 is not installed, I will have to do a software update.

Is it true the blacker than black issues were units manufactured Sept 2004 to Dec 2004?


If you had to wait that long I would have assumed you would've got a player with the latest build date. I picked one up from my local dealer a month ago and had to wait two weeks to get it. Build date was Jan/06.

On another note, as far as connecting my 3910 to 4806, is DenonLink better than HDMI for audio?

Kevin W,

Assuming you've got DL3, it will pass SACD, while HDMI won't.

I have just picked up a 3910 from Audio Visions (a high end store in my area). I paid $1500 for this sucker and find that it may not even pass some tests my $200 Toshiba can pass...blacker than black. Build date was Sept 2004.
Check it for butt-hair imprints; someone was sittin' on that one.

Eric (my Audio Visions rep) should know better.

My eval unit from Crutchfield (went eventually with a Marantz DV9600 from Eric) had a Oct 2005 build date, and DL3 installed.

I talked to Mike the manger of the store. He seems to be upset as well. Didn't know about receiving "outdated units." He is talking to his supplier. I told him that units were available with at least a manufacture date of 1/06. He said that he would try to get me another unit within two days (Crutchfield has them). He doesn't understand why I would have to wait six weeks for a unit manufactured almost two years ago. I also told him he should check any new orders for customers to make sure of the serial number (which shows date of manufacture) and the tell tale signs of the "black versus unblack circles" on the packing. Also told him of the black stickers designating the color of the unit versus the stickers under the serial number of the unit designating whether the unit can pass "blacker than black."

the tell tale signs of the "black versus unblack circles" on the packing. Also told him of the black stickers designating the color of the unit versus the stickers under the serial number of the unit designating whether the unit can pass "blacker than black."

Just so I'm clear.....

If the unit passes BTB there will be a black sticker under the serial number?

May buy one of these soon. Want to get my facts straight.

Search this thread. A more than a few pages back a member posted pics of the 3910 carton showing the black dots designating "color of the unit" versus whether the unit could pass "blacker than black." It is my understanding that units produced between at least August 2004 and November/December 2004 can not pass that calibration test. In my case I found myself with one of those units in March of 2006 that was "supposedly new." My player was manufactured in September 2004 with no stickers under the serial labile. Just those in the corners designating the color of the player.

Just so I'm clear.....

If the unit passes BTB there will be a black sticker under the serial number?

May buy one of these soon. Want to get my facts straight.

Yep. My 3910 has the 2 solid black dots next to the serial number on the outside of the box.

Yep. My 3910 has the 2 solid black dots next to the serial number on the outside of the box.

As much as I respect Denon, I can't believe they are still trying to sell these defective units. I have always respected their AVR receivers, I expected more from their DVDs. Granted, they are great according to reviews, but when you spend some cash for a DLP TV, and expect to calibrate it with a "good" DVD player you expect a bit more. I guess I am in the minority, or maybe not. Quite a few folks wouldn't know the difference that pay premium price for a player that does not do what is supposed to do.

Well, i just got myself a 3910 and couldn't be happier...I had an H/K DVD22 which was starting to die on me (kept freezing up on me and layer changes seemed to become more and more apparent for some reason) I was hoping it would last until Christmas and I'd then jump to either BluRay or HD-DVD...well, that idea went out the window. I initially got the LG 511. Great picture and audio, but HATE the slot loading design. Took it back and got the last NS70 Sony Circuit City had....again, great picture and audio, but I still had that urge to find out when the more expensive Denon's could do. So I took the Sony with me and did a side by side with the Sony, a 2910, and a 3910. Both the Denon's offered considerably sharper image quality, however, the 2910 seemed washed out in comparison to the Sony. I decided on the 3910 after discovering it was running through component at 480i while the Sony was upconverting to 720p...and yet the Denon still destroyed it in image quality. The 3910 now sits in my entertainment center while the Sony was given to my parents. I no longer have the bug to upgrade and probably won't even look at the new formats for several years due to the image quality on this player. I got a break on this model due to it being in the guy's shop for a while (seems to be one of the first ones...build date is June 2004!!), however, after seeing some of the prices others are grabbing these at I was kicking myself but in the long run, I won't care...I've got the excellent image from an excellent player. I've applied all the updates and I don't see black dots next to the S/N, but it does seem to pass BTB when doing the THX calibration test.

question about my new 3910. I'm wondering if I should go with optical out to my 3805 or analog for CD's? I'm guessing analog.... I’m not really sure which has the superior DAC.

also, does anyone have any DVD Audio disc's they would like to recomend?

Well, i just got myself a 3910 and couldn't be happier...I had an H/K DVD22 which was starting to die on me (kept freezing up on me and layer changes seemed to become more and more apparent for some reason) I was hoping it would last until Christmas and I'd then jump to either BluRay or HD-DVD...well, that idea went out the window. I initially got the LG 511. Great picture and audio, but HATE the slot loading design. Took it back and got the last NS70 Sony Circuit City had....again, great picture and audio, but I still had that urge to find out when the more expensive Denon's could do. So I took the Sony with me and did a side by side with the Sony, a 2910, and a 3910. Both the Denon's offered considerably sharper image quality, however, the 2910 seemed washed out in comparison to the Sony. I decided on the 3910 after discovering it was running through component at 480i while the Sony was upconverting to 720p...and yet the Denon still destroyed it in image quality. The 3910 now sits in my entertainment center while the Sony was given to my parents. I no longer have the bug to upgrade and probably won't even look at the new formats for several years due to the image quality on this player. I got a break on this model due to it being in the guy's shop for a while (seems to be one of the first ones...build date is June 2004!!), however, after seeing some of the prices others are grabbing these at I was kicking myself but in the long run, I won't care...I've got the excellent image from an excellent player. I've applied all the updates and I don't see black dots next to the S/N, but it does seem to pass BTB when doing the THX calibration test.

You wouldn't see black dots on the box because even though you have an older manufacture date the problems seem to appear in units manufactured in August/September of 2004 through the end of 2004. From what I have read units manufactured prior to August/September 2004 and those manufactured after Jan 2005 seem to be fine.

I've applied all the updates and I don't see black dots next to the S/N, but it does seem to pass BTB when doing the THX calibration test.

Are you referring to firmware updates? How are firmware updates obtained for the 3910? Are they end user installable or does the unit have to be taken to a repair shop for the updates?

Are you referring to firmware updates? How are firmware updates obtained for the 3910? Are they end user installable or does the unit have to be taken to a repair shop for the updates?
Firmware updates never fixed a unit that did not pass blacker-than-black; a trip to a service center was/is always necessary.

Firmware updates never fixed a unit that did not pass blacker-than-black

Yeah, I figured that. :( How about just regular old firmware upgrades? Does Denon release them and can I obtain them? I'm looking to purchase a 3910 and am considering used units. Someone that posted in this thread has one for sale, but it has a manufacture date of 6/2004 so I'm assuming there would be newer firmware available for that unit.

Yeah, I figured that. :( How about just regular old firmware upgrades? Does Denon release them and can I obtain them? I'm looking to purchase a 3910 and am considering used units. Someone that posted in this thread has one for sale, but it has a manufacture date of 6/2004 so I'm assuming there would be newer firmware available for that unit.
We all got the updates from the Denon website and installed them ourselves. I believe the most recent was four-six months ago. Just a guess - anyone posting a unit for sale on THIS thread will have the latest firmware already installed.

We all got the updates from the Denon website and installed them ourselves.

How is that information accessed on the website? Do you have to register with the units serial number?

How is that information accessed on the website? Do you have to register with the units serial number?
Go to Denon's site and click on "owners|product updates" - select model and enter serial number. If any is availble - I guess it tracks downloads - it will be displayed. AS I skipped the last upgrade (I don't use DL3) it is telling me that one is available. I never looked before, but I see there are other things in the version notes beside DL3, so I am going to download and install it.


[DVD-3910] (5/23/2005)
Firmware Update - US Models Only -
This Firmware updates the following reported anomalies on the DVD-3910 or DVD-3910S.

1. Programmed CD playback of discs with at least 10 tracks.
2. Playback on “Raging Bull” disc.
3. Playback on “River Dance” disc PAL version.
4. HDMI improvement for displays with 258+ EDID memory.
5. Improvement when connecting HDMI to a TV or projector.
6. IEEE-1394 improvement.
7. Adds Denon Link III.

pepar, thank you very much.

I got as far as my post above shows, but clicking the "download" link produces a 404 error. What is the version "name" and can anybody link me directly to thie upgrade?

Are there any improvements over Denon's firmware in the JVB Digital -E version (for $20)?

I got as far as my post above shows, but clicking the "download" link produces a 404 error. What is the version "name" and can anybody link me directly to thie upgrade?

Are there any improvements over Denon's firmware in the JVB Digital -E version (for $20)?


I couldn't get past clicking on "I accept" on the "Terms and Conditions of End-User License Agreement" page... It just returned to the original search page. Also, couldn't find a version name of the (5/23/2005) update being displayed.

If I remember correctly my last firmware update was ESS-6609-B. Not sure if that is the latest "Official" update from Denon for my player or not??

I couldn't get past clicking on "I accept" on the "Terms and Conditions of End-User License Agreement" page... It just returned to the original search page. Also, couldn't find a version name of the (5/23/2005) update being displayed.

If I remember correctly my last firmware update was ESS-6609-B. Not sure if that is the latest "Official" update from Denon for my player or not??
If memory serves me, -B is the latest Denon version. I'm going to call and ask why I can't download it. I'm also goig to contact JVB Digital and ask about their -E version.

If memory serves me, -B is the latest Denon version. I'm going to call and ask why I can't download it. I'm also goig to contact JVB Digital and ask about their -E version.


Please let us know what info you get from JVB...

Please let us know what info you get from JVB...
Spoke to JVB Digital first and they had no info on 6609-E. The info they had on -B was word-for-word what Denon has - see my above post - on it. No info? Couldn't bring myself to drop even as little as $20.

Spoke to Denon next and ask why I couldn't d/l -B. The person went "with me" to the d/l site and got the same result as I; page not available. However, he said they go there nearly daily and the page layout is different from the one he saw yesterday. He thought that it was being redesigned and asked me to give it a week and try it again. He implied I could call him back then if it still didn't work. I asked him about -E and he had no info, nor did he have - or perhaps did not admit to having - any files to send me, -B or -E.

I'd really like to find out what's new in ESS6609-E!

Spoke to JVB Digital first and they had no info on 6609-E.

Wow, that really gives me a lot of confidence in their company! How can you not have any information about something that you sell?

Heck. I am still working on issues with a 3910 I bought in Feb that was just picked up last Friday. I know it doesn't pass BTB. My AV store (High End) called me at work and asked me to look at the label. Even though they know the unit was made 9/04 they said there should be "stickers" indicating the unit had been upgraded. I told them there were no stickers (as a matter of fact I educated the manager of the store last night what those stickers mean and where they should be placed on the original shipping box!) My dealer said he knew that but these were the questions Denon was asking! Man, the first time I bought a Denon was for the AVR-3300 which many people had problems with, not me that sucker was a work horse. I am very satisfied with my upgrade to the 3806 even with its problems with the HDMI switching issue (for that I don't blame Denon only my HD provider STB.)

Wow, that really gives me a lot of confidence in their company! How can you not have any information about something that you sell?
The department I talked to fixes them. Another department sells 'em. :)

I think the correct information is available somewhere in the company, but it might be in Japan.

Keenan-

Any word on those TalkingHeads discs yet?

J.
Got my player back yesterday. These discs are fantastic, as has been mentioned, these discs are a must-have for any Talking Heads/HiRez audio fan. Speaking in Tongues is worth the price just for the alternate version of Burning Down The House, I've been playing this album for a few hours now. :p :D

P.S. You have a pm

Got my player back yesterday. These discs are fantastic, as has been mentioned, these discs are a must-have for any Talking Heads/HiRez audio fan. Speaking in Tongues is worth the price just for the alternate version of Burning Down The House, I've been playing this album for a few hours now. :p :D

P.S. You have a pm


Were the dualdisc versions of these not playing properly on some people's 3910s? I went with the seperate DVDA+CD versions form amazon.uk to be on the safe side.

Were the dualdisc versions of these not playing properly on some people's 3910s? I went with the seperate DVDA+CD versions form amazon.uk to be on the safe side.
Not sure, I know there was some discussion about it, but I don't recall if there was an issue or not. To me, DualDisc is an anomaly and if the product can be had as in the UK version, I will always go there first as those 2 formats(DVD-A and CD) are proven, reliable formats. Plus, I've seen DualDisc packaging that is unclear exactly how the material is encoded on the disc(48/24, 96/24, etc).

keenan
"these discs are a must-have for any Talking Heads/HiRez audio fan"
... "the alternate version of Burning Down The House"
How's "Swamp"?

er, as to thread related - still loving 3910 with 3805 to reworked maggie mg3.3r's and ae700.

keenan
"these discs are a must-have for any Talking Heads/HiRez audio fan"
... "the alternate version of Burning Down The House"
How's "Swamp"?

er, as to thread related - still loving 3910 with 3805 to reworked maggie mg3.3r's and ae700.
It sounds great, the whole disc is well done IMO. I haven't listened to some of this stuff in years, and to hear it this way now...well, only live would be better. :p :D

I don't know about the discs themselves, but I for one can't get the Talking Heads Dualdiscs to play on my 3910. Well, almost never. My player is a 9/04 manufactured player, current -B firmware, connected via component vid and 1394 to my Pio 55Txi. Love the machine, DVD, CD, DVD-A, SACD playback all excellent. However, it hates hates hates DualDiscs. I assume its most likely a problem specifically with my player as I not only have the well documented problems playing the CD side of a DualDisc but the DVD side as well. I've got a lot of DualDiscs and 9 times out of 10, the player will load the disc, stay on "Loading" for 30sec-1min and then stop with 0h0m0s on the display- it just won't recognize the disc either set to Audio or Video mode. Occasionally if I load a DVD+R video disc first, then eject it, then load the DualDisc it will recognize it, but that dosn't always work. I suspect this is a problem with my individual player, but has anyone else run up against this?

The "Stop making sense" gig in philly, at the tower was one of my favorites as a "youngster". Great show from determined to be wierd band, with a lot of great sidemen for that tour.
um, I can't wait to listen to the new release on my 3910. (<-thread related!)

I don't know about the discs themselves, but I for one can't get the Talking Heads Dualdiscs to play on my 3910. Well, almost never. My player is a 9/04 manufactured player, current -B firmware, connected via component vid and 1394 to my Pio 55Txi. Love the machine, DVD, CD, DVD-A, SACD playback all excellent. However, it hates hates hates DualDiscs. I assume its most likely a problem specifically with my player as I not only have the well documented problems playing the CD side of a DualDisc but the DVD side as well. I've got a lot of DualDiscs and 9 times out of 10, the player will load the disc, stay on "Loading" for 30sec-1min and then stop with 0h0m0s on the display- it just won't recognize the disc either set to Audio or Video mode. Occasionally if I load a DVD+R video disc first, then eject it, then load the DualDisc it will recognize it, but that dosn't always work. I suspect this is a problem with my individual player, but has anyone else run up against this?
Do you hear the drive spinning up and down while it tries to read the disc? If so, you may have a problem with the laser traverse assembly. I recently had my 5900 repaired because of a bad assembly, it would do the very same thing, wouldn't recognize certain discs initially, but by fussing around as you have done, it would eventually play them. The problem with mine got worse and worse as time went on. You may have a problem getting it fixed under warranty as I'm not sure Denon supports DualDiscs.

Just sent my 3910 in to be repaired for the same reason. It got progressively worse at reading CDs. I could hear/feel the drive spinning up and down as it tried to read the disc, but after about 20-30 seconds the display would read all zeros, as if there were no disc in the drive. I don't know the cause of the problem, but the repair shop had to order a part to fix it.

On my invoice it's called a traverse mechanism assembly.

Here are two confirmed bugs with the 3910:

When listening to a DTS CD, the DTS and 5.1 channel indicators do not light though it properly passes the DTS signal to my 4806 for decoding (via optical or DL3). Instead, the display erroneously shows only Left and Right channels active as if it were a regular 2-channel CD.

However, if you cycle the power or if the DTS CD is the first one played after powering up, the indicators will work correctly. If you then open and close the tray the indicators will not light; but power down and up and hit Play and the indicators work again.

This appears to only be a problem with the 44.1kHz format. With 96kHz/24bit, the DTS and channel indicators work correctly every time.

I have the latest E firmware and this problem has persisted. This is not an anomaly with my unit as it was also reported on the michaeldvd website in their review.

Has anyone else seen this? I didn't see it mentioned in a quick search of this forum. I realize this is not a high priority item as the unit does pass the DTS signal but it's annoying and I hope Denon will fix it.

Also, as others have reported, my unit does not pass BTB. I haven't seen any explanation for the problem. Has anyone seen any official comments about this?

BTW for those asking about the E firmware, it reportedly improves color performance and I can confirm that it does make the unit region free (the B firmware is single region). You're supposed to upgrade to B before upgrading to E.


Michael

Also, as others have reported, my unit does not pass BTB. I haven't seen any explanation for the problem. Has anyone seen any official comments about this?
As reported earlier in this massive thread, the problem units were manufactured in the fall of 2004. The only way to fix it is to send it to Denon for a free upgrade (you have to pay for shipping). It is not fixable with firmware.

Were the dualdisc versions of these not playing properly on some people's 3910s?
I can't get any DualDiscs (the "cd" side) to play properly on either my 3910 or my Toshiba SD-H400 Tivo player. They'll play fine in my car, but that doesn't cut it. I frickin' hate those damn discs! :mad: The worse part is that the bonus content on the TalkingHeads discs is on the "cd" side only! :eek:

Anyways, I'll pick up the UK versions of those...they are really awesome! Remain in Light, Naked, and Speaking in Tongues will be the first! :D

J.

Remain in Light, Naked, and Speaking in Tongues
Now there's a visual . .

On my invoice it's called a traverse mechanism assembly.

Just got my 3910 back from repair today and they:

replaced the optical mechanical assembly
realigned optic tangent and tilt
realigned for DVD single/dual layer


Works great now. Plays all my CDs without spinning out of control.

Good deal!

You might notice some menu speedup, since the assembly was replaced on my 5900 the menu speed is noticeably faster, something that was always an "issue" with the player.

Just got my 3910 back from repair today and they:

replaced the optical mechanical assembly
realigned optic tangent and tilt
realigned for DVD single/dual layer


Works great now. Plays all my CDs without spinning out of control.
Was this covered by either factory or extended warranty? If not, what did it cost you?

J.

ps- thanks to Keenan...an avid supporter of the 3910, even though he isn't an owner. Another excellent resource! :)

Now there's a visual . .
Keep dreaming semi-snoozer...and your little dog, too! :D :p
It'd be like the final scene in Raiders of the Lost Ark where everybody thinks they're in for a good show but ends up with their eyeballs exploding...not really a good time for anyone.

J.

It sounds great, the whole disc is well done IMO. I haven't listened to some of this stuff in years, and to hear it this way now...well, only live would be better. :p :D
What about the bonus tracks...like "Fela's Riff" and "Unison" and "Double Groove" and "Right Start?" Are those on the DVD-A version?

Thanks,

J.

What about the bonus tracks...like "Fela's Riff" and "Unison" and "Double Groove" and "Right Start?" Are those on the DVD-A version?

Thanks,

J.
Those are only on the CD disc.

I recently tried out a brand new 3910...did it likely have the E firmware?

I recently tried out a brand new 3910...did it likely have the E firmware?
Build date?

Not sure what it was, but it did pass BTB. It was from Crutchfield.....so I'm guessing it was recent?

I recently tried out a brand new 3910...did it likely have the E firmware?

If the E firmware is region free, then more than likely it did not have it.

As reported earlier in this massive thread, the problem units were manufactured in the fall of 2004. The only way to fix it is to send it to Denon for a free upgrade (you have to pay for shipping). It is not fixable with firmware.


Thanks. I didn't see that. I'll check with Denon Monday. I hope they didn't set a time limit on the free upgrade.

Anyone had a chance to verify the DTS CD indicator problem?

Was this covered by either factory or extended warranty? If not, what did it cost you?

J.

ps- thanks to Keenan...an avid supporter of the 3910, even though he isn't an owner. Another excellent resource! :)

Covered by an extended warranty, so I'm afraid I don't have a repair cost for you.

Speaking of extended warranties . . . never used to see value in these things, but recently they have paid off big for me. It seems that build quality isn't what it used to be.

On my 5900, the part was $113.50 and the labor was $75.00 to replace the laser tracking assembly.

Those are only on the CD disc.
Are the track listings at Amazon.uk off? Here's the link (http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000BW9VBG/qid=1144555272/sr=2-1/ref=sr_2_11_1/202-5511539-0327851). I noticed that reviewers referenced the 4 outtake tracks, but the track listings don't reflect them. Would you mind posting what you've actually got?

Thanks!

J.

Are the track listings at Amazon.uk off? Here's the link (http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000BW9VBG/qid=1144555272/sr=2-1/ref=sr_2_11_1/202-5511539-0327851). I noticed that reviewers referenced the 4 outtake tracks, but the track listings don't reflect them. Would you mind posting what you've actually got?

Thanks!

J.
The Amazon listing is correct except it's missing the 4 extra tracks on the CD disc. Below is the back cover of the case, the listings are correct for each disc, note that it list Bonus Tracks as "(CD Only)". Both CD and DVD-A have the original 8 tracks with only the CD having the 4 bonus tracks, and everything listed corresponds exactly with what is on the actual discs.



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v637/keenanj/THRIL.jpg

Sorry for the long post, but this is driving my crazy --

Here is my setup - Denon 3910 video signal output via DVI to a Pioneer PRO1410 (61" Plasma) HDMI input via Gefen HDTV Cat5 repeaters. Setup has worked flawlessly for nine months until two weeks ago.

Here is my problem - Watched a movie with kids and the system functioned perfectly as normal, shut down the system, attempted to watch a second movie forty-five minutes later and the video signal would not hold steady. Picture changes from perfect image to grey "no signal" screen continuously. Consistent tempo of about half a second of picture followed by half a second of grey "no signal" which repeats regardless of whether a DVD is loaded in the player or not. The actual "no signal" verbiage does not appear, but it's the same screen as when there is no signal.

What has been done -

Second 3910 player results in identical video issue when connected to my Pioneer Plasma.

An LCD plasma connected to my 3910 results in perfect picture when connected directly to the DVD player or at the other end of the Gefen extenders.

My 3910 connected to second Pioneer Plasma 1410 TV at reseller's facility results in same rythmic flicker, but not an actual full grey screen.

Pioneer plasma service technician connected Samsung DVD player via HDMI and the picture is perfect connected directly or via the Gefen devices.

Gefen devices have been replaced and symptons or issues have not changed.

Second 3910 player has not been connected to second Pioneer TV, so I don't have those results.

Finger Pointing - Pioneer technician says it's the DVD player, because Samsung works great. Home Theater installer says it's the TV, because LCD TV works perfectly and second 3910 has same symptons. TV reseller says it's the DVD player because of the flicker when my 3910 is connected to a second Pioneer Plasma.

Next Steps - I'm going to take the Denon 3910 in for repair, but was wondering if anyone had any advice. This is a very strange problem as testing with duplicate gear has resulted in more confusion instead of clarification.

TXS - Banymi

The Amazon listing is correct except it's missing the 4 extra tracks on the CD disc. Below is the back cover of the case, the listings are correct for each disc, note that it list Bonus Tracks as "(CD Only)". Both CD and DVD-A have the original 8 tracks with only the CD having the 4 bonus tracks, and everything listed corresponds exactly with what is on the actual discs.
Thanks for the info, Jim! That'll do the trick nicely!

J.

I'm auditioning both a Denon 2910 and 3910. I have been having difficulty getting either of these units along with my ARCAM AVP700 to play multi-channel 5.1 sound. All I get out of either player with my processor is 2 channel sound. I have the Denon wired up to the ARCAM using the 5.1 analog output. I setup the Denon with the SACD setup to be in multi-channel mode. One interesting note is that on the Denon 3910 the super audio and blue disk illuminated but only the Left and Right speakers illuminated whereas on the 2910 when I tried that unit I got all 5 speakers plus the LFE channel to illuminate on the Denon display. I'm assuming that the display indicates which channels are being driven. Confused as to why 3910 would not have displayed all speakers. Could it be defective?? With neither setup am I getting any multi-channel sound. Any ideas?

Did you go into the setup menu and configure the 3910's settings? Many of the settings can't be accessed while a disc is playing, so that may be part of the problem. You need to setup your speaker configuration, size, etc and indicate how you want multichannel music played back. It doesn't sound like a defective player, but maybe just a matter of setting it up properly.

Hopefully that'll fix the problem.

J.

I'm auditioning both a Denon 2910 and 3910. I have been having difficulty getting either of these units along with my ARCAM AVP700 to play multi-channel 5.1 sound. All I get out of either player with my processor is 2 channel sound. I have the Denon wired up to the ARCAM using the 5.1 analog output. I setup the Denon with the SACD setup to be in multi-channel mode. One interesting note is that on the Denon 3910 the super audio and blue disk illuminated but only the Left and Right speakers illuminated whereas on the 2910 when I tried that unit I got all 5 speakers plus the LFE channel to illuminate on the Denon display. I'm assuming that the display indicates which channels are being driven. Confused as to why 3910 would not have displayed all speakers. Could it be defective?? With neither setup am I getting any multi-channel sound. Any ideas?

You may also want to make sure you actually have a MULTI Channel SACD you are plugging into this player. Not all SACD's are MULTI cahnnel, I have many that are 2 channel hires stereo. This does not mean you can't get LFE out of the stereo mix, you just have to have a processor that allows to send the LFE mix to the sub. Bottom line is there are many titles in the SACD format that are not MILTI channel.

SC

I just received a 40' HDMI cable form Better Cables and am having the same flickering from the HDMI output as with the 10m Cobalt cable. I guess I'll just use an adaptor and the DVI output

Check out the thread talking about the new line: a 3930 with the Realta chip. Sweet!

Check out the thread talking about the new line: a 3930 with the Realta chip. Sweet!
Yeah, just when my wife finally stopped kicking my ass..."Honey, guess what....? Denon just came out with..." (continuing asswhipping!). Just kidding...but for real, I never thought I'd drop a Cleveland on a DVD player...much less twice in as many years. I'll be waitin' for HD (of whatever variety or flavor) before I upgrade again.

J.

I bought my 3910 about a year ago with the thinking that:

1) It's an excellent unit and
2) It's good enough to be my last standard definition optical player and
3) I will most likely own it for a few years after I buy a hi-def player.

Know what's changed now? Not a damn thing.

Just my $.02.

Know what's changed now? Not a damn thing.
Actually, you (and your little dog) have gotten a bit older...:p :D

J.

Yeah, just when my wife finally stopped kicking my ass..."Honey, guess what....? Denon just came out with..." (continuing asswhipping!). Just kidding...but for real, I never thought I'd drop a Cleveland on a DVD player...much less twice in as many years. I'll be waitin' for HD (of whatever variety or flavor) before I upgrade again.

J.


Well at least Jesus is in your corner.... :D :D :D

I have a good feeling if I tell my wife "Honey, I want to upgrade the player again". I'll be seeing Jesus faster than planed! :eek: :eek:

No doubt I'll be waiting for the HD players..

Actually, you (and your little dog) have gotten a bit older...:p :D

J.


Dogs look different here in Texas.... :confused: :confused:

Actually, you (and your little dog) have gotten a bit older...:p :D

J.
It's not a dog. It's Willy from Philly. Meowww. :)

Well at least Jesus is in your corner.... :D :D :D

I have a good feeling if I tell my wife "Honey, I want to upgrade the player again". I'll be seeing Jesus faster than planed! :eek: :eek:

No doubt I'll be waiting for the HD players..
Yup...same here. Maybe 2 or 3 years down the road, but sooner than that'd certainly be my undoing. :D

BTW, I know it's dog...but "And your little cat, too" just doesn't cut it! ;) Apologize to Willy for me, I know how sensitive cats can be! :D

J.

Check out the thread talking about the new line: a 3930 with the Realta chip. Sweet!

Thanks for the heads up.

So much for being a member of the "Denon Owners Club" and getting advanced info on stuff. :rolleyes:

At least Velodyne sends out a newsletter regularly.

Yup...same here. Maybe 2 or 3 years down the road, but sooner than that'd certainly be my undoing. :D

BTW, I know it's dog...but "And your little cat, too" just doesn't cut it! ;) Apologize to Willy for me, I know how sensitive cats can be! :D

J.
I thought "and your little dog, too" was your version of "and the horse you rode in on." :)

No, it's from "The Wizard of Oz." But I do like your version...:D

J.

No, it's from "The Wizard of Oz."
Ahh, yes. I completely missed the reference. Must've been been the poppies.

Or that nasty tornado...:eek:

J.

Any word on any firmware coming down the pipeline? I'm experiencing a bizarre surplus of CD-Rs since the DL3 update came out. Maybe designer coasters?

J.

Sadly, I have the experience of having bought a 3910 sometime back and have just discovered that the Below Black issue is unique to my build date (Sep 04). Based on the thread, sounds like I have to send it in to be 'fixed". My real question is, does Below black matter or is it simply available to insure proper display calibration?

Would I actually "see" a difference if the unit was passing below black?

Thanks for any and all guidance.

Me too, I just discovered that my 3910 is made in 9/04 and is supposed to have some kind of a black-to-blacker problem. How bad is that. I bought it in Dec/05 and have been watching movies since without noticing any major quality issues. The only thing is that it doesn't play all CD-R or DVD-R as advertised which I heard is a common with this model. Please correct me if I'm wrong.

I'm auditioning both a Denon 2910 and 3910. I have been having difficulty getting either of these units along with my ARCAM AVP700 to play multi-channel 5.1 sound. All I get out of either player with my processor is 2 channel sound. I have the Denon wired up to the ARCAM using the 5.1 analog output. I setup the Denon with the SACD setup to be in multi-channel mode. One interesting note is that on the Denon 3910 the super audio and blue disk illuminated but only the Left and Right speakers illuminated whereas on the 2910 when I tried that unit I got all 5 speakers plus the LFE channel to illuminate on the Denon display. I'm assuming that the display indicates which channels are being driven. Confused as to why 3910 would not have displayed all speakers. Could it be defective?? With neither setup am I getting any multi-channel sound. Any ideas?

Greetings,

Make sure that you press the SACD setup button on the front panel and that you set it to Multi mode. If it is set to Stereo mode it will only play the stereo tracks from multi channel SACDs. The point regarding stereo only SACD's is a good one and you should make sure that when you are playing a disc that you knowwhich it is.

You don't mention DVD Audio so I will assume that yuo have not tried any yet.

Regards,

Me too, I just discovered that my 3910 is made in 9/04 and is supposed to have some kind of a black-to-blacker problem. How bad is that. I bought it in Dec/05 and have been watching movies since without noticing any major quality issues. The only thing is that it doesn't play all CD-R or DVD-R as advertised which I heard is a common with this model. Please correct me if I'm wrong.
First of all, use THX Optimizer, present on many DVDs such as Star Wars, to see whether your specific unit does pass BTB or not (don't assume anything based on the build date). If it does not pass BTB, then only you can decide whether you like the PQ or not. Worst case: you may be losing some detail in dark scenes.

BillP,

If one calibrates so that he doesn't see BTB bars (keeps black level at zero), how would he still be missing detail? I guess it depends when the BTB "cutoff" is at. If it happens just above black (or zero) then that can be a problem? Is this how you understand it? Just curious.

BillP,

If one calibrates so that he doesn't see BTB bars (keeps black level at zero), how would he still be missing detail? I guess it depends when the BTB "cutoff" is at. If it happens just above black (or zero) then that can be a problem? Is this how you understand it? Just curious.
Well, that's a good question and I'm sure someone will step up with the technical reasons. For me though, I just accept that to be correct my DVD player must pass below black. I drank the Kool-Aid. :)

BillP,

If one calibrates so that he doesn't see BTB bars (keeps black level at zero), how would he still be missing detail? I guess it depends when the BTB "cutoff" is at. If it happens just above black (or zero) then that can be a problem? Is this how you understand it? Just curious.
Sorry, but I am certainly no expert on this (I'll let someone else answer). THX is a good way to see whether your unit CAN pass BTB, although AVIA and DVE are more accurate for actually adjusting the contrast and brightness settings. Those adjustments, though, should be made on the display, not the player, with the player set to 0 IRE and Normal black level (for the 3910).

How I understand it is that BTB is for black level (brightness) calibration. It gives you a proper reference point for setting your display's black level. Actual NTSC video does not contain below black, so you are not missing anything. In fact, the black bars in AVIA are designed specifically to set proper brightness even if your DVD payer does not pass BTB.

Scott

How I understand it is that BTB is for black level (brightness) calibration. It gives you a proper reference point for setting your display's black level. Actual NTSC video does not contain below black, so you are not missing anything.
Isn't the THX Optimizer done in NTSC?

Folks,

Just Got the money back this week. I´ve sent back my 3910 for the store and want my money back. This Model, as 5900, and 3800, have a serious problem to read some CDs (recognize), bad laser unit. And it isn´t a problem with some, it occurs in ALL 3910. I´ve tested my CDs that it wasn´t recognizing in others 3910, and occurs the SAME. So i will neVermore buy a Denon (don´t believe that a brand new spending unit could have this serious problems) now i am thinking to get a Marantz 9600, that folks haven´t problem with laser unit. ;)

Folks,

Just Got the money back this week. I´ve sent back my 3910 for the store and want my money back. This Model, as 5900, and 3800, have a serious problem to read some CDs (recognize), bad laser unit. And it isn´t a problem with some, it occurs in ALL 3910. I´ve tested my CDs that it wasn´t recognizing in others 3910, and occurs the SAME. So i will neVermore buy a Denon (don´t believe that a brand new spending unit could have this serious problems) now i am thinking to get a Marantz 9600, that folks haven´t problem with laser unit. ;)

You should return the CDs and demand a refund from the manufacturer for not making them compatible with the Denon. ;)

BillP,

Why can't some adjustments be made on the player (unless there is a certain flaw with the player's settings)?

Sorry, I don't mean to be singling you out. :) Just interesting stuff here.

David, everyone seems to recommend that you make the adjustments on the display, and then just fine tune with additional adjustments on the player if needed.

David, everyone seems to recommend that you make the adjustments on the display, and then just fine tune with additional adjustments on the player if needed.
Done correctly with the display's setup controls, no "additional adjustments" will be necessary.

Done correctly with the display's setup controls, no "additional adjustments" will be necessary.
Agreed, for most of my viewing (at night). I did make a custom setting on the player just for rare daytime movie viewing.

Agreed, for most of my viewing (at night). I did make a custom setting on the player just for rare daytime movie viewing.
I haven't the foggiest idea why DVD players even have picture controls. Are there displays that do not?

One reason I can think of for player picture controls is the situation where the player and other sources share the same TV input. For example, a cable box and player routed through a reciever with a single out to the TV. In that scenario, the tv's picture controls could be optimized for the cable box, and then any additional adjustment necessary to optimize the picture for the player could be made with the player's controls.

Do I win something?

I haven't the foggiest idea why DVD players even have picture controls. Are there displays that do not?
I'd guess that the logic is that not all TVs that do have picture controls have them for each separate input. Especially now when you might have gear connected via composite, s-video, DVI, HDMI, or component (I'm sure I'm ommiting many), it makes more sense to calibrate the TV for that particular input. However, it requires that you have your source set up properly to send an accurate signal to the display...and therein lies the BTB/IRE issue with some of the earlier 3910s. At least I think so...:rolleyes:

J.

I haven't the foggiest idea why DVD players even have picture controls. Are there displays that do not?

If one is routing several inputs through a receiver for instance, the display would see that as a single input, thus any changes on the display become global not source dependent. That would be alot more hassle than being able to configure each source with one or more configurations. I would not want my STB settings for SD used when I am watching a DVD as the criteria are different, for example.

One reason I can think of for player picture controls is the situation where the player and other sources share the same TV input. For example, a cable box and player routed through a reciever with a single out to the TV. In that scenario, the tv's picture controls could be optimized for the cable box, and then any additional adjustment necessary to optimize the picture for the player could be made with the player's controls.

Do I win something?
Yes, you win, that's exactly the primary reason. Plus, different types of discs, video vs film for example may need different adjustments, anime may require different settings...having those settings is very handy. My 5900 has 5 different selections with about 4 different settings for each.

I agree with Hammerli.

Watching some DVD's with the 3910 last night. Picture seems a bit on the "green" side. Anyway to correct this? Is this a known function of this player? Case in point in watching Walt Disney's "Sleeping Beauty" the blue fairy Merryweather's gown looks almost a blue green. When played on the old Toshiba it was most definitely blue.

Also watched Brokeback Mountain last night on the 3910, again a definite pronounced green hue compared to when viewed with the Toshiba. Particularly noticeable with the background showing sky and clouds.

Not aware of any green hue problems with the 3910. But it's probably necessary for you to adjust your picture settings some from the ones you were using with the Toshiba to optimize the picture for the 3910. You might think about getting an Avia or DVE disk to help you calibrate the picture. Between the display's adjustments and the many adjustments available with the 3910, you've got plenty of room to tweak.

Watching some DVD's with the 3910 last night. Picture seems a bit on the "green" side. Anyway to correct this? Is this a known function of this player? Case in point in watching Walt Disney's "Sleeping Beauty" the blue fairy Merryweather's gown looks almost a blue green. When played on the old Toshiba it was most definitely blue.

Also watched Brokeback Mountain last night on the 3910, again a definite pronounced green hue compared to when viewed with the Toshiba. Particularly noticeable with the background showing sky and clouds.


As far as the green issue, I think this occurs on some displays if you are using component connection? I had a similar issue and I corrected it by changing the (tint or gamma can't remember which one to +1) Made a difference and now the player looks great.

First of all, use THX Optimizer, present on many DVDs such as Star Wars, to see whether your specific unit does pass BTB or not (don't assume anything based on the build date). If it does not pass BTB, then only you can decide whether you like the PQ or not. Worst case: you may be losing some detail in dark scenes.
Does it matter which Star Wars Episode or not. I think of renting them from Netflix.
Thanks

Does it matter which Star Wars Episode or not. I think of renting them from Netflix.
Thanks

My 3910 had a green push on the DVI output. When I sent it in to have the blacker-than-black fixed, I mentioned this as well and it came back with no green push. However, I now have to set the dvi output to enhanced blacks, or they are washed out. It's as if enhanced is where normal should be and normal is just too light.

There are picture settings, that you can use to adjust the tint to lessen the green. Maybe even perfectly correct the problem. I don't know, I didn't use the DVI output all that often.

Does it matter which Star Wars Episode or not. I think of renting them from Netflix.
Thanks
I believe it's on all the episodes.

My 3910 had a green push on the DVI output. When I sent it in to have the blacker-than-black fixed, I mentioned this as well and it came back with no green push. However, I now have to set the dvi output to enhanced blacks, or they are washed out. It's as if enhanced is where normal should be and normal is just too light.
Have you run Avia/DVE since getting it back?

I've looked at SMPTE color bars since I've gotten it back. The green tint was pretty noticeable without even test patterns. I'm judging the blacks against my Iscan HD+'s internal test patterns which I assume are fairly accurate (I have no way to know for sure) with the DVI input set to video levels (or whatever the Iscan calls it, can't remember now).

I've looked at SMPTE color bars since I've gotten it back. The green tint was pretty noticeable without even test patterns. I'm judging the blacks against my Iscan HD+'s internal test patterns which I assume are fairly accurate (I have no way to know for sure) with the DVI input set to video levels (or whatever the Iscan calls it, can't remember now).
Well, you really should run a brightness/contrast test and calibrate the display before reaching a conclusion about normal/enhanced black being reversed.

That's what SMPTE bars are for. You can set tint, saturation, and brightness with them. Contrast can be tough, although they do have a 100% white box.

I don't think you fully understand the DVI's brightness issue I'm having.

First, they are not reversed. (And if they were, calibrating would certainly not change that) They are both lighter than they should be. Enhanced should be darker than normal. Which it is. However, on mine, enhanced is putting out levels that where the normal setting should be (black at digital 16), while normal is even lighter. Black at 32, maybe? Calibrating the display to compensate with AVIA/DVE would certainly bring the levels to where they should be for viewing, but that's not the point. Video black is defined at the digital level of 16, and that's what you would expect the DVI output of the 3910 at normal to output. That's the display compensating for a problem with the source output. Like if the analog outputs had blacks at 20 IRE. Yes, you could lower the brightness on the display. But again, that don't make it right.

I could change the picture level settings in the 3910 itself. But why? You'd think the default, or the 0 setting should be fairly accurate. And actually I haven't tried this yet. It's possible that the brightness wouldn't go down far enough to fix it. Out of curiousity, I'll give it a shot next time I use it.

The question is, how do I know what digital levels are being output? As I said, I am basing it off the internal test patterns of my Iscan HD+, which have so far proven fairly accurate. Enhanced blacks come the closest to matching the black of it's brightness/contrast pattern. When I simply do a pass through of The DVI signal, the levels don't change, so it appears the Iscan is not screwing with the video levels much. And the black levels of the other Iscan inputs have matched fairly closely to the Iscan's test patterns, including the SDI input, which also uses the digital black level of 16. So I'm more trusting of the Iscan's level's being correct.

And here's another bit of evidence. I believe enhanced blacks should not be passing blacker-than-black. However, with my 3910 set to output enhanced blacks, somehow it's outputing a fine blacker-than-black signal. ????? Becuase the ehnaced blacks are where normal should be.

That's what SMPTE bars are for. You can set tint, saturation, and brightness with them. Contrast can be tough, although they do have a 100% white box.

I don't think you fully understand the DVI's brightness issue I'm having.
While that may not be completely untrue, I did not take your "I've looked at SMPTE color bars since I've gotten it back." to mean you had made any adjustments to calibrate it since you've gotten it back. If you were implying that as well, I apologize. I do, however, disagree with your using the word "compensate" as that implies something is wrong. It may just be different; indeed, changing video circuittry, as they must've done to fix the BTB issue, would likely result in changes in the outputted signal.

Again, if you've calibrated it since you've got it back, I apologize. If not, then I'm back to my original point that you should do that before thinking that there's a problem.

Ah, I see what you mean. I said "looked at" because I didn't change anything. Everything was fine and the same with my SDI output, which is what I mainly use.

I stand by the word "compensate", because if the DVI output set to normal is outputing a black video level of 32 (just guessing at the number here) instead of 16, wouldn't that be wrong?

Ah, I see what you mean. I said "looked at" because I didn't change anything. Everything was fine and the same with my SDI output, which is what I mainly use.

I stand by the word "compensate", because if the DVI output set to normal is outputing a black video level of 32 (just guessing at the number here) instead of 16, wouldn't that be wrong?
Well, I don't know. Your previous baseline - it's settings and performance before sending it back - is no longer valid. I'm afraid I know diddly about the iScan, but I think I understand your previous comments now about its internal test patterns. Yes, neither the display nor the iScan have changed, so that combo would perform the same as before. The 3910, however, is "different" and now the display needs to be re-calibrated to the "different" player you now are using.

Actually, I only think the black levels changed from when I had sent it back. I never looked at them that hard. I couldn't get past the green tint. I am pretty sure they weren't as washed out. About 80% sure.

The original point I was just trying to make is that the DVI black level on mine is off. Not necessarily when it happened.

You keep mentioning calibrating the display. If the black levels are being output at 32 from the DVI output, and I calibrate the display to show it properly that's great because that what I should do for proper viewing. But that doesn't change the fact the DVI output is too washed out. Again, if the composite output is too washed out from the standard, and I brought the brightness down on the display, it's not changing the fact that the composite output is not ideal.

I am not completely sure it is wrong though. Just all evidence points to it now. I just got through checking the composite and the SDI (moded deck) outputs on a waveform and vectorscope monitor and they are dead accurate as I thought. Does anyone have any idea how to verify the DVI output?

Pepar, if you wouldn't mind, could you try something? Put your HDMI/DVI black level setting to enhanced. And put in a DVD with a test pattern that has blacker-than-black. Does it display blacker-than-black? If the setting is on normal, does it display blacker-than-black? Mine always displays blacker-than-black. And I don't think that's right. I think I should not be able to discern BTB on the enhanced setting. I am curious if that's an anomoly of my player. Or if that's standard 3910 behaviour.

One more thing, I checked and I can't darken the DVI output with the picture settings. Only lighten it. The default setting of 0 doesn't go lower only higher and therefore brighter.

The bads~
I can't believe how prominent the (I don't know the term) macroblocking(?) is. I have a 5678w Samsung 1080P 56" etc, and with all settings on the TV to default there is some serious black boxes in the dark areas of movies. I have read about this plenty, but I was lead to believe that this was minimal and not really noticable. My default setting for brightness on the TV is 50, but if I set it to 37, I don't notice the MB anymore. The screen is noticably darker too though. The TV is notably very bright so it doesn't bother me too much having the brightness turned down, and it will make the bulb last longer right? Anyway,
Is there a way to have this fixed?

The goods~
I had arguably the worst DVD player according to a few review sites dv-434 (pioneer), but it's been good to me until I got my Sammy. The difference in picture quality and sound was everything I hoped it would be and more. I don't have the best ear for audio, but I knew I was in for a treat when I popped in my first dvd "Star Wars III" and was immediately blown away at the improved sound quality just from the opening music. I could distinctly hear where the intruments were in the recording.
I'm so happy I did some research on this purchase. Though my MP3's sound better than before, this dvd player has opened my ears/mind to what MP3's lack. At Magnolia I had the salesman show me the difference in sound between the 2910 and 3910. I didn't think I would notice much since the 2910 sounded as good as I thought possible. Then switching to the 3910 the sound enveloped the room more and with more warmth and depth. Once I hooked it up at home I found the same experience, and for once my wife agrees with a purchase! :rolleyes:

Also, I notice when switching from 480P/720P/1080i the resolution on my Sammy is pretty much the same. I don't notice much of a difference between them except that 1080i has visible horizontal lines in it (interlaced?). The TV automatically upconverts the signal to 1080P so I'm assuming this is the reason?

Calibrate the TV using the new 3910.... I have a 3910 and a Toshiba 1080p tv and I see no macroblocking....

It will make your great combination look fantastic.....

Don

Others have complained about MB with the new Samsung DLPs. Calibration may reduce it, but the only way to eliminate it is with a non-Faroudja player. If you can, return it for a Pioneer 59i or Onkyo SP1000 (or the HD-DVD player just released).

Thank you, for the input. I'll try the 3910 side calibration, and if that doesn't work then maybe I'll wait until 3930...

Thank you, for the input. I'll try the 3910 side calibration, and if that doesn't work then maybe I'll wait until 3930...
No MB with that one (Realta instead of Faroudja). Sounds like it's as good as the 5910 at a 3910 price.

I am trying to connect my 3910 to my 3806 via HDMI 2 and run monitor out (HDMI) to my Mits TV. All I get is a blue screen. I do not even show the setup menu on the tv. When I switch to component via TV input I get the 3910 setup menu.

Currently, this is my configuration. Dish Vip211 HD receiver HDMI out to 3806 HDMI input 1, Monitor HDMI out to Mits 52628 HDMI input 1. Denon 3910 HDMI out to Denon 3806 HDMI input 2.

Denon 3806 HDMI assign as follows:

DBS HDMI 1
DVD HDMI 2

I do have component cables running from the 3910 directly to the MiTS component inputs. Is this causing the problem? I have heard of problems with settop boxes not playing nice with Denon receivers but this is not my problem. My Dish network receiver uses the 3806 as a switch flawlessly. I can not seem to get the 3806 or 3910 to play nice with each other. If I switch to component via TV I get a picture and audio from the 3910 with a noticable green push. Very noticable. Manufacture date of the 3910 is September 2004. I know about the blacker than black problems with the unit and Denon is letting me use this unit on loan until they get me a more recent manufacture date for the player. I bought this about two months ago.

I have just tried a direct connect via HDMI from 3910 to Mits tv HDMI 2. No signal.

I assume that you have enabled HDMI on the 3910...?

Don

At this point I will plead ignorance. How does one do that. I don't find the Denon Manual much help.

Don,

Did you mean I should push that little button on the remote that said HDMI? Thank you for putting everything into perspective. Denon manuals and I have never been best of friends. Thanks for the nudge.

Don,

Did you mean I should push that little button on the remote that said HDMI? .
Yes. And cycle through the settings on the 3910's display. I don't use HDMI, but I believe after you enable it there, you'll find more setting in MENU.

Don,

Did you mean I should push that little button on the remote that said HDMI? Thank you for putting everything into perspective. Denon manuals and I have never been best of friends. Thanks for the nudge.

Yes ... there are two buttons at the top left of the remote... select and format... under the HDMI/DVI label..... SELECT allows you to select HDMI (RGB or YCbCr) or DVI or OFF... FORMAT allows you to chose the output rez... 1080i/720p/480p...

The 3910 will not output HDMI/DVI and component at the same time.... at least mine will not....

Don

I just bought a Monoprice 5x1 HDMI switcher to switch between my 3910, HD Directv box and my Panasonic AE900. Everything works OK except the 3910's picture alternates between a picture and a blue screen every couple of seconds using either the DVI or the HDMI outputs. Bypassing the switcher shows no problem. All the 3910's output resolutions show this problem.

Does anyone have a Monoprice HDMI switcher working correctly with their 3910?

I don't have the switcher, but I have a DVDO VP30 connected to my Marantz VP-12S2. With a straight run from the 3910 to the Marantz, no issue; With the 3910 connected to the VP30 I get exactly the same symptoms that you report of alternating picture/blue screen.

Sounds like another HDMI h___ story with two manufacturers needing to cooperate to resolve the issue.

The bads~
I can't believe how prominent the (I don't know the term) macroblocking(?) is. I have a 5678w Samsung 1080P 56" etc, and with all settings on the TV to default there is some serious black boxes in the dark areas of movies. I have read about this plenty, but I was lead to believe that this was minimal and not really noticable. My default setting for brightness on the TV is 50, but if I set it to 37, I don't notice the MB anymore.
[/COLOR]

I calibrated the 3910 last night (ire = 0, and enhanced black normal (default was 7.5 and normal)) and set the TV brightness back to default. Problem solved or at least less noticable. I haven't done a lot of testing, but initially I didn't notice any MB. It was originally set to 7.5 and was way too bright.

I don't have the switcher, but I have a DVDO VP30 connected to my Marantz VP-12S2. With a straight run from the 3910 to the Marantz, no issue; With the 3910 connected to the VP30 I get exactly the same symptoms that you report of alternating picture/blue screen.

Sounds like another HDMI h___ story with two manufacturers needing to cooperate to resolve the issue.

Greetings,

I have my 3910 connected to a Gefen 4x1 HDMI switcher. No issues what so ever. I also have a Parasound ZHD 5X1 HDMI switcher which I am currently reviewing, and it also has no issues with the Denon.

Neither of you mention how long your cable runs are ( total to include the cable running between the 3910 and switcher/VP30 ).

BTW my display is a Sony VPL-HS51 front projector.


Regards,

Greetings,

Neither of you mention how long your cable runs are ( total to include the cable running between the 3910 and switcher/VP30 ).



I have a two 3 foot HDMI and DVI to HDMI cables cables for connecting either the HDMI or DVI output to the switcher. I connect the switcher to the projector with a 35 foot Blue Jeans HDMI cable.

Monoprice says they have not heard of any problems like I described so is offering to exchange my switcher for a new one.

I also have an Gefen 2x1 HDMI switcher that also has problems. It only passes 1080i to my AE900. The other resolutions do not pass. The funny thing is it passed all resolutions to my AE500 projector. The Gefen also messed up the audio of the 3910 when I connected the Gefen switcher to 3910's HDMI output so I only used the DVI output. I contacted Gefen and they are saying I need to send the switcher back to them so they can install in firmware that supports 256 bit EDID.

I'm sad to hear the new VP30 has the same problem. Makes me think it is more complicated problem with the 3910 HDCP protocol.

Does anyone have the 3910 HDMI output connected to a 3806 (or other receiver with HDMI switching) and outputting to AE900 projector? Any problems???

Neither of you mention how long your cable runs are ( total to include the cable running between the 3910 and switcher/VP30 ).

I run a 1m HDMI-HDMI cable between the 3910 & the VP30; The VP30 is driving a 20M HDMI-HDMI cable and HDMI-DVI adapter to the VP12S2.

The 3910 can drive the 20M run directly, my issue is when I put the VP30 in the chain. My Moto 6412 and HTPC also are HDMI/HDMI 1M and DVI/HDMI 1M to the VP30. They have no issues.

Yes ... there are two buttons at the top left of the remote... select and format... under the HDMI/DVI label..... SELECT allows you to select HDMI (RGB or YCbCr) or DVI or OFF... FORMAT allows you to chose the output rez... 1080i/720p/480p...

The 3910 will not output HDMI/DVI and component at the same time.... at least mine will not....

Don
What is the difference between the 2 HDMI modes and which one is better to use - RGB or YCbCr?

What is the difference between the 2 HDMI modes and which one is better to use - RGB or YCbCr?

To tell you the truth... I don't really know... I think it has something to do with the colour space used.... any way I use YCbCr and it looks good.... just calibrate using the same as you will watch with......

Don

Put your HDMI/DVI black level setting to enhanced. And put in a DVD with a test pattern that has blacker-than-black. Does it display blacker-than-black? If the setting is on normal, does it display blacker-than-black? Mine always displays blacker-than-black. And I don't think that's right. I think I should not be able to discern BTB on the enhanced setting. I am curious if that's an anomoly of my player. Or if that's standard 3910 behaviour.


Could somebody try this? I am still wondering whether this is usual for a 3910, or if mine is miscalibrated.

Basically, I'd like to know if when the DVI output set to enhanced, does the 3910 pass a blacker-than-black signal?

Since I have it set to Normal (which is the way it should be set, according to Secrets), I can't tell you. Mine does pass BTB on Normal and 0 IRE, using AVIA for calibration.

Greetings,

I also have a Parasound ZHD 5X1 HDMI switcher which I am currently reviewing, and it also has no issues with the Denon.

Neither of you mention how long your cable runs are ( total to include the cable running between the 3910 and switcher/VP30 ).

BTW my display is a Sony VPL-HS51 front projector.


Regards,

Placidman,

How is your review of the ZHD going? I have the ZHD also and is hooked to my 3910, a HD tivo, and another dvd player (Sony 5 dvd carousel). I have noticed since I hooked up the ZHD, I have occasional dropouts where I see a blue screen for just a second or less. This seems to happen about once or twice during a normal viewing period for me (2 hour movie). I have a dvi-hdmi adaptor hooked to a 5m dvi cable between the switcher and my JVC HX-1 projector.

This never happened when I just used a gefen DVI switcher (although I had other issues with it).

I don't know about Denon players, but their receivers do indicate whether an HDCD disk is being read.

When I put a HDCD disk in my Denon 3910, and then press "Play", the display shows "HDCD" in tiny letters just above the track time.

When I put a HDCD disk in my Denon 3910, and then press "Play", the display shows "HDCD" in tiny letters just above the track time.And the blue light goes out because the AL 24 plus decoder has been supplanted by the HDCD decoder.

YCC is the native colorspace of NTSC, HDTV and DVD. Selecting RGB output on HDMI means that the conversion from YCC to RGB occurs in the STB.
Selecting YCC means conversion gets delayed until the TV/monitor.

For me, I find YCC output from my Comcast DVR gives me better PQ.
Try watching content with smoothly changing colors or brightness; I found less noise and artifacts with YCC output than with RGB output.

- Ian


To tell you the truth... I don't really know... I think it has something to do with the colour space used.... any way I use YCbCr and it looks good.... just calibrate using the same as you will watch with......

Don

How can I display the current firmware version ?

How can I display the current firmware version ?I'm guessing this question has already been answered in this or other threads. If you're not lazy to find it yourself, just search with Google and type "denon 3910 firmware".

How can I display the current firmware version ?

Welcome to AVS forum and the 3910 thread. There's a ton of info available here from a lot of people willing to share it but you do have to take the initiative and do a little work to get answers to the basic questions.

Search the thread there are plenty of post on how to check the latest version.

A search can be tough when there are close to 6000 posts on a thread.

A search can be tough when there are close to 6000 posts on a thread.

Not very tough if you have the where-with-all to afford a $1400 DVD player. :D

Not very tough if you have the where-with-all to afford a $1400 DVD player. :D

Good one :) Touche

A search can be tough when there are close to 6000 posts on a thread.
Not so tough with the "search this thread" in advanced mode.

A search can be tough when there are close to 6000 posts on a thread.Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish... (Chinese Proverb)

From Denon's reply to my e-mail:

To confirm the software version on the DVD3910:
1. Turn the small power button off on the front of the unit.
2. Hold down the PLAY and OPEN/CLOSE buttons on the front of the unit, both at the same time.
3. Turn the power back on and continue holding the buttons for 3 seconds, then let go.
4. After “>II LOADING” shows on the display, press the 3,2,6,5 buttons on the remote (in that order) and then press the MENU button to see the version.

I haven't tried it yet, as I just got home, but hopefully this'll do the trick! :)

Jason

Actually it took less than a minute to find thread #463. Enjoy. :cool:

JohnG,advanced member
Thank you for your constructive critizism. As a new member of this forum I will endeavor to be a good citizen. I did search and even tried to use advanced search. It was my patience that failed. After reading many interesting posts and going off on many tangents, I made my first post. I shall be more careful with any further inquires for help and do more to improve my compute skills as well.
Please accept my apologies.
Mike (miklet)

Thank you very much for your time and information, I will try this tonight.
Mike (miklet)

I consider myself justifiably scolded :)

Despite being techie when it comes to hifi I'm not good with computers.

Tough crowd...:p

J.

BTW, any word on any new firmware since DL3? It seems we've hit a dry spell...maybe they'll come out with an upgrade/fix for DualDisc! :eek:

J.

JohnG,advanced member
Thank you for your constructive critizism. As a new member of this forum I will endeavor to be a good citizen. I did search and even tried to use advanced search. It was my patience that failed. After reading many interesting posts and going off on many tangents, I made my first post. I shall be more careful with any further inquires for help and do more to improve my compute skills as well.
Please accept my apologies.
Mike (miklet)

No apology needed.

Welcome to the club and enjoy the player. We just like to haze the newbies. :)

I suppose "auto squeeze mode" is not possible in a firmware update?

Has anybody with a 3910 tried the European version of the Talking Heads discs yet? I don't know how NTSC or PAL factors in with DVD-A, though much of the contnet on the discs is straight up DD DVD, if I'm not mistaken. I'd like to bone up on the hi-rez remasters, but I don't want to drop the cheese if there's going to be some region issues.

J.

Your obveusly doing a grate job Mr. Colman. Its cleer that the studient counsel (funny how they mispaled that) reely love you.

Your obveusly doing a grate job Mr. Colman. Its cleer that the studient counsel (funny how they mispaled that) reely love you.
The funny thing is that they incorrectly spelled so many words (including my name), but what makes it hilarious is that they're thanking me for making them smarter! :D:D:D Doh! :eek: I'll post a picture of the note when I get home...it's been on my fridge for 2 years now! Can't part with a keeper like that...

J.

ps- love your spelling of tipo...nice touch! :)

As promised...

J.

Hang in there. I'm sure you're making them smarter every day.

As promised...

J.
Ohmigod, that's good stuff. Jay Leno/Tonight Show good stuff.

As promised...

J.
How does the picture of the Beatles fit into that note? :confused:

How does the picture of the Beatles fit into that note? :confused:
Just happens to be on his fridge . . .

I have followed this thread for some time and decided to buy the 3910. My dealer
says he gets his directly from Denon so should be latest build. When it came in, guess what, Sept. 2004 build date. I complained about this sitting in the warehouse for 1.5 years and I asked the dealer to ask Denon why this happened. One interesting point from the Denon Rep. was that these units have never had problems and what they built back then is exactly what is being built today. What gives? My dealer says Denon will take back the unit. So I returned it today and the dealer says that when the 3930 comes out he will match the price he gave me for the 3910. Hopefully, I won't have to wait too long.

I have followed this thread for some time and decided to buy the 3910. My dealer
says he gets his directly from Denon so should be latest build. When it came in, guess what, Sept. 2004 build date. I complained about this sitting in the warehouse for 1.5 years and I asked the dealer to ask Denon why this happened. One interesting point from the Denon Rep. was that these units have never had problems and what they built back then is exactly what is being built today. What gives? My dealer says Denon will take back the unit. So I returned it today and the dealer says that when the 3930 comes out he will match the price he gave me for the 3910. Hopefully, I won't have to wait too long.

Unless you have an immediate need for a DVD player you may be better off waiting for the 3930. Following are a couple of quick points.

The 3910 only had one major problem with a specific production run. Some units would not pass blacker than black. Other than that, firmware updates have handled most other "problems". Some displays have issues with macroblocking when matched with the 3910. Dual discs don't fair to well when played on the 3910.

Unless you have an immediate need for a DVD player you may be better off waiting for the 3930. Following are a couple of quick points.

The 3910 only had one major problem with a specific production run. Some units would not pass blacker than black. Other than that, firmware updates have handled most other "problems". Some displays have issues with macroblocking when matched with the 3910. Dual discs don't fair to well when played on the 3910.
If he gets a unit with the BTB fix in place he can upgrade the firmware - if it's not already installed - and have the latest thing. If he got a good price, that's even better. As for waiting for a 3930, perhaps he wants a player now. He did say he's been following the thread for some time. Beyond that, one can always wait for the next model. And wait. The macroblocking is a fair knock, though, if he's got a particula plasma.

Just my $.02.