What operating system on the computers? I used XP Pro with success. Was the receiver powered up with the green light? Dumb question - you have a 3806, right?

Hey guys - I'm trying to follow the procedure way back in post # 2381 to upgrade the firmware in my 3806.

I got the file and the serial cable, installed the program on a laptop and connected to the RS-232 port on the AVR.

Every time I try to run the program, it says Communication error. Any ideas? I tried 2 different cables and 2 different laptops - same result.

DE

Thanks for the replies, guys.

I switched back to the original laptop, with the new serial cable, and that worked. The upgrade process itself was quick and painless.

I don't know how everyone else is handling the loss of settings, but I came up with a good trick. Used a digital camera to take a picture of each of the setup screens, prior to the firmware upgrade. Made it easy to put everything back together.

DE

I don't know how everyone else is handling the loss of settings, but I came up with a good trick.
Some people just use the Setup Tool to save and restore the settings. Although it's no longer available at the original link (http://www.audioproducts.com.au/APGNZEnduser/ShowProducts.aspx?pid=AVR3806BK&type=2), there is a mirror copy at Archive.org (http://web.archive.org/web/20070903112410/http://www.audioproducts.com.au/APGNZEnduser/ShowProducts.aspx?pid=AVR3806BK&type=2). Or you can search for it at audioproducts.com.au (http://www.audioproducts.com.au/downloadcenter.aspx).

Is there a way to remove a fuse or connector to only the power amp section of the 3806? I'm only using the preamp outs and the thing still heats the entire room.

Is there EVER a signal on the optical outs? I've tried several things and never ever gotten a signal out. Denon tech support looked for about 15 minutes and finally said he would kick it up the chain and have someone call me back but no response after a week.

did you make sure to set the "Zone 2 / REC OUT" source? under the function knob on the left side of the unit, you have to select a specific source to output to the REC OUT's. that should be in your manual somewhere under recording...

Is there EVER a signal on the optical outs?
Do you have a signal connected to an optical or coaxial input? That is the only type of signal that the 3806 can pass to an optical output.

posted this else where but maybe can get more info here

I own the AVR 3806 built a home theater last year - got lots of info from this forum. Now with the blu ray craze had some questions.
I was wondering how I can get 7.1 on this amp thru blu ray.
Someone had mentioned that I could do 7.1 pcm thru HDMI would ps3 or the 2 blu ray players do that? AM i correct in this assumption?
Or do i need to get the S550 and do analog to get to 7.1.
IF the HDMI 7.1 PCM works, does anyone know How to set that up in Ps3 and also for those 2 blu ray players are their options to output 7.1 PCM thru HDMI.

ALSO on the amp what settings would need to be done to receive the 7.1 thru the HDMI; if that works?
I just don't know how the settings work with the surround feature on the amp and the dolby settings etc, since the AMP doesn't have DOBLY TRUE HD?
I am sorry if this is all over the board, just not up to speed on all the changes as I was when I was researching and building my home theater. Especially since I decided to go back to school, so have been out of touch.
Thanks again for all the information - Especially with black friday approaching I know a few places will offer the SONY BDP s350 for around 180 dollars so it seems like a good deal if it will work but if not maybe I will splerge for the S550 with the analogs and also give up on my PS3 idea also.
ANKUR

this receiver will do 7.1 PCM over HDMI but I believe you may need a firmware update, spend some time searching this thread for "7.1 firmware" or something like that and you'll dig up the info.

once the firmware is updated there is nothing you have to do in the receiver to "enable" the 7.1, as long as your audio input mode is set to "auto" it should automatically detect the incoming signal. the only thing you should have to set up will be on the BD player.

the PS3 is a perfect match for a receiver like this because it decodes every format and will output up to 7.1 PCM.

did you make sure to set the "Zone 2 / REC OUT" source? under the function knob on the left side of the unit, you have to select a specific source to output to the REC OUT's. that should be in your manual somewhere under recording...


batpig,
Thanks MUCH! I almost replied "are you talking to me" as I didn't see how this could be related. The word "optical" literally shows up in only two places total in the owners manual. Both are simply labels on connections. Although this doesn't solve my issue (I want two channel downconverted PCM to a front speaker DAC/crossover) doesn't this mean all the people needing a digital source out to zone 2 actually have it? There are numerous postings (and the owners manual) indicating you cannot have a digital source sent to zone 2. It seems to me you can and there is even switching between the sources. Hell I might even put a system on the patio as I now know I only need one tiny optical cable instead of a half dozen interconnects or speaker wires!

well are you talking about the optical out or zone 2, because they aren't the same thing and have different restrictions. the procedure I discussed (setting the correct source for REC OUT) is to get the optical output active, and I do believe that for this it's only digital in > digital out.

for multizone, I don't think 3806 can output any digital audio to zone2/3, so if you are trying to set up a second zone speaker set on the patio you will still need those analog cables.

well are you talking about the optical out or zone 2, because they aren't the same thing and have different restrictions. the procedure I discussed (setting the correct source for REC OUT) is to get the optical output active, and I do believe that for this it's only digital in > digital out.

for multizone, I don't think 3806 can output any digital audio to zone2/3, so if you are trying to set up a second zone speaker set on the patio you will still need those analog cables.

You lost me. How is optical out not zone 2 or zone whatever. If I run opt out to another room (call it zone2, basement system, or whatever), I have a separate output from the main output with separate source switching. I just tried it and the opt out 4 is switched separately and unaffected by main source switching or main volume setting etc. How does the optical out if call "zone 2" versus "REC OUT" have "different restrictions"? This seems to solve the hassle people were expressing from having to connect a rats nest of analog cables just to listen to a digital source in another location.

all I'm saying is that they aren't the exact same thing in terms of functionality, even though you can accomplish the same thing. some differences off the top of my head:

1. the zone 2 pre-outs are analog only
2. the zone 2 pre-outs have variable volume control at the receiver (REC OUT is fixed)
3. you can directly control source/volume with a zone 2 remote (or the main remote) for zone 2, whereas to change source with REC OUT you have to physically hit the button and turn the knob (correct me if I'm wrong here) and it is fixed volume
4. because the zone 2 pre-outs are source/volume controlled at the receiver, all you need is a simple amplifier to power the 2nd zone speakers. whereas with the optical REC OUT, you need a processor/receiver to decode the digital audio, provide volume control, and then amplify it for the speakers.

again, I'm not criticizing your solution or anything, if it works for your setup that's great!

I am just excited for all the people that wanted digital sources in a remote location. Maybe I misinterpruted the issue (it has been over a year since I've read this entire thread) but I thought your discovery was significant enough to want to inform all the people that were told "no digital sources can be output to zone 2". It seems to me the only down side to using optical out for a 2nd location would be if you wanted to listen to analog sources. How many people still use cassettes, or vinyl? I assume if they were aware of this option almost all would opt for optical out and a cheap receiver in the other location as oposed to another power amp, analog cables from all digital sources to the Denon 3806, analog cables from the Denon receiver to the remote location and hard wiring the optional remote control unit. The optical digital hook-up even gives one multi channel sourround capablity instead of just stereo. This seems HUGE to me but I may have misunderstood the questions they were asking. The owners manual makes no mention of it.

Does anyone (batpig?) know if HDMI digital audio input is also sent to the 3806 opt outs? So far I have confirmed that the opt in and coaxial in are passed unaltered to the opt out. With all the copy protect crap on HDMI I don't feel safe assuming it will behave the same. I can't test it without buying a 25' hdmi cable. Ideally I'd like to get 2 channel PCM from the 3806 opt out no matter what format is input digitally (bit stream or PCM). I need PCM to go to my front channel digital crossover. My DirecTV DVR opt out will switch from bit stream to PCM depending on programming (even changing for commercials). Bit stream to my digital crossover = very nasty potentially damaging noise. Eliminating the 3806 DAC, 3806 analog circuits, crossover analog circuits, and crossover ADC and going digital directly to the crossover is a much better sounding signal path. Except for the bit stream noise.:mad:
Obviously I could set everything to send only PCM to the 3806 but that would elimate all digital surround formats.

no HDMI audio can be downconverted at all, it won't come out of the optical out or the zone2/3 outs. that is still the case on the new models as well.

Ideally I'd like to get 2 channel PCM from the 3806 opt out no matter what format is input digitally (bit stream or PCM).
The 3806 cannot convert a bitstream input (such as DD or DTS) to a 2-channel PCM output.

Will multichannel LPCM via HDMI into a firmware upgraded 3806 produce any output from the 3806 opt out?

nope - HDMI audio and other outputs do not mix, period, even on newer models.

Thanks. All the talk about the PS3 7.1 LPCM into the firmware upgraded 3806 had me thinking I could split the LPCM front channels to the digital input of my x-over. I think it would be possible if the PS3 would output HDMI and optical simultaneously but as far as I can tell it won't. Damn this is frustrating! I'm going back to my simple and pure vinyl, preamp, power amp to speakers.

PS3 only outputs one audio type at a time unfortunately...

Well I just firmware-upgraded my 3806 via the rs232 port - no problems. I connected my PS3 to my new AE3000U Panny projector which, before the update, had been having handshake problems. I have a 20' HDMI run to the projector, but I tested it first with a 5' HDMI cable (through the 3806) and the video worked great. But... the 20' one still doesn't handshake correctly through the 3806. I am now assuming that the 20' cable might be bad - does that sound correct? 20' is well within the capability of HDMI cable, right?

Also, I happily notice that I am now getting PCM Multi Channel - even 7.1 into the 3806. I don't have any true 7.1 content yet (the base ps3 does show a 7.1 signal tho). But, here is the problem... when playing regular 5.1 PCM Multi Channel content through the PS3, I only get surround sound through the two side surround speakers. Nothing from the rear channel(s). Is this normal? Shouldn't PCM decoded audio from the PS3 and add a rear channel simulation? Is there anyway I can get the rear channels going just with the same audio going to the sides? Thanks very anyone can provide on this. -Mike

you have to manually uncheck the "7.1" outputs on the PS3 in your HDMI Audio setting, the PS3 sends "blank" channels so your receiver is getting 5.1 but "tricked" into thinking it's receiving a 7.1 signal. If you check the display or hit "status" I bet you will see that the Denon thinks it's getting a 7.1 signal even though the sound is 5.1, so it is unable to turn on PLIIx matrixing for the rear channels. Disable the 7.1 options on the PS3 and it should work, let us know how that goes.

Got it working - I didn't realize you had to hit the cinema button on the remote to get the PLXII thing going. First I noticed that when I hit the DSP simulation I would get all 7 speakers. Then I tried the cinema button and it worked. I guess I am still pretty wet behind the ear when it comes to all this audio decoding stuff. At any rate, before that I did try the PS3 5.1 only and of course that didn't do the trick. So now I have the PS3 set to auto which includes all of the 7.1 stuff and it is working perfectly - only problem is the long hdmi cable still is not working, so it is temp sitting on the floor with crazy cable runs.... other than that I am happy. Thanks a lot for your advise and help!

what cable r u using? Long runs need good quality but dont need to be expensive. I like dvigear.com

Are there some settings somewhere that I am missing to get a composite video signal from a VCR to be output on the component video outs?

I see settings to choose whether or not to digitize analog signals and send them to the HDMI output, but I thought the 3806 would convert all analog video signals types to all other types analog types. The exception being that it won't take a high def component feed and down convert it so that it could come out on the composite or s-video outputs. But shouldn't any composite input be seen on the component output. I do see the composite input come out of the composite outputs, but I don't see it on the component outputs. I also see component inputs coming out of the component outputs, so the component connection to the projector appears to be fine.
Thanks

it should work fine, make sure VIDEO CONVERT is set to ON for that input, it's a different setting than the HDMI video settings.

Thanks Batbig, I thought you might have it, but when I got home last night, I checked the video conversion menu and all inputs were checked on, to do the conversion. I tried running the composite VCR connection into other inputs and it converted to component out fine. I tried other sources into the VCR1 input and nothing worked. The composite VCR1 feed does come out on the composite outputs, just not the component.

Do I just have a bad unit that can't convert the VCR1 composite input to component? Is it even possible with the circuitry to be broke in such a way that one input can't convert while the others do? Is it all handled in the same chip? It's not a big deal as I don't need anymore inputs, but just curious if there is something else I might be screwing up. Any ideas? Thanks.

With multi-channel hi res lpcm input to the 3806 via hdmi will the 3806 mix the center and sub signals into the front channels if one configures the 3806 as "no sub, "no center"? Does the same answer apply to the pre-outs?

Can someone point me in the direction of what cord is needed for the for the firmware update and where to purchase it from?

Also can you tell me where to find the new firmware file? I looked in through this thread and couldnt find it.

Thanks in advance.

Tom

I did the firmware upgrade and since then my subwoofer does not give any sound. When testing all speakers work fine except the subwoofer. Anybody has an idea what could cause the problem? I searched this forum and tried all advice found, but still no sound.
I even tried to run auto setup and my subwoofer is not recognized by Denon.
Any help will be appreciated.
Thanks.

I did the firmware upgrade and since then my subwoofer does not give any sound. When testing all speakers work fine except the subwoofer. Anybody has an idea what could cause the problem? I searched this forum and tried all advice found, but still no sound.
I even tried to run auto setup and my subwoofer is not recognized by Denon.
Any help will be appreciated.
Thanks.

What sub and how do you have it hooked up?

I did the firmware upgrade and since then my subwoofer does not give any sound. When testing all speakers work fine except the subwoofer. Anybody has an idea what could cause the problem? I searched this forum and tried all advice found, but still no sound.
I even tried to run auto setup and my subwoofer is not recognized by Denon.
Any help will be appreciated.
Thanks.

In your speaker configuration have you indicated the existence of a sw?

In your speaker configuration have you indicated the existence of a sw?

Yes, I manually changed sw to "yes", but still no sound is coming from the subwoofer.

All I had to do was ... to turn the subwoofer off and then again on. I hope everything will be fine now.

All I had to do was ... to turn the subwoofer off and then again on. I hope everything will be fine now.

Sounds like its not triggering auto mode on your sub (if its got one). Try increasing the volume on the sub and lowering it on the 3808 and vice versa.

Anyone have this hooked up to a Panasonic DMP-BD35 Blu-ray?

I have a 3806 that I love and have upgraded the firmware to 7.1 although currently I have just a 5.1 setup.

I have just ordered the Blu-ray and am looking for tips/advice/settings that you have tried that can optimize both.

Thanks in advance!

put the BD35 on "PCM" output. plug it into the 3806 with an HDMI cable. pop in a blu ray and select the TrueHD/DTS-MA track. that's about it, you are optimized!!

Wow! This is going to be great! I have some HDMIs coming from monoprice. Can't wait!!!! :):):)

Help.. I’ve been trying to update the firmware on my 3806 for about 5 hours total time spent with no luck. I’ve tried two different “usb to serial” cables (one is keyspan) w/a vista 32 bit laptop. When I open up the program and it says check communication. I get an communication error every time. Can somebody tell me what com port the rs-232 is? Keyspan is defaulting to com8 and denons setup tool looks like com3 might be an option. BTW the setup tool did communicate with my 3806.

The second part of this question is do I really need this update? I just picked up a panny bd35k and at the moment I'm running 5.1 to paradigms 60's in front with 590 center and 470s on the sides. My TV is a sony crt 720/1080i.
Will I even notice a difference in the sound (I'm more interested in the audio) with the update? BTW I'm also running full HDMI 1.3.

Hi guys. I have a 3806 and I'm wondering does it do 1080p switching? I decided to dig out the manual tonight, and it says no, but Denons web site says yes, so which is it? I will be getting a PS3 and a 1080p tv next month and wanto to be sure everything will play nice together.

Edit: I just checked the firmware and I have the following:

Main 52
Sub 41
DSP 43

I have Macs, so am I sol on the firmware upgrade? I don't think I need it anyway, I only have a 5.1 speaker setup for now. Just need to be sure it will switch 1080p sources.

sure it will, where does it say it won't handle 1080p?

I have a 3806 and I'm wondering does it do 1080p switching?Mine does. ;)

I have a 3806 upgraded software and a Panny DMP35 both DTS and Dolby set to PCM but only DTS master shows 7.1 on the display of the 3806. Dolby True HD shows Milti chanel in but it not showing the rear surrounds. I have tried several discs of each.
Any help would be appreicaited.

I have a 3806 upgraded software and a Panny DMP35 both DTS and Dolby set to PCM but only DTS master shows 7.1 on the display of the 3806. Dolby True HD shows Milti chanel in but it not showing the rear surrounds. I have tried several discs of each.
Any help would be appreicaited.

Make sure you find a dolby tru 7.1 track AND make sure you actually select it in the audio option menu.

most TrueHD soundtracks are still 5.1 - check the specs for the particular movie and see what it says

After reading a few post it looks like BD35 on DTS MA 5.1 does a re-mapping to the rear surrounds the Denon displays this a 7.1. No re-mapping takes place with Dolby True HD and all of my disc are 5.1.

I have a MacBook Pro which I use Fusion to run virtual XP. If I get a usb serial adapter and fire up XP will i be able to install the firmware update to the 3806? Anyone tried this yet?

Ok, I don't think I understand some things here. I have my ps3 connected to the 3806 via hdmi. When the ps3 is on the 3806 shows multi channel in on the screen. Am I correct in thinking that if I update the firmware I can listen to the newer surround formats (DTS HD MA & Dolby True HD) on the 3806? Is that what 7.1 pcm is? I was under the impression I'd need to buy a new receiver to get those. Does the ps3 do the actual decoding and then send the discrete channels to the 3806 for amplification? Sorry for all the questions.

Am I correct in thinking that if I update the firmware I can listen to the newer surround formats (DTS HD MA & Dolby True HD) on the 3806?

No. Upating the firmware will not allow the 3806 to decode TrueHD/DTS-HD. It WILL allow you to receive a 7.1 PCM stream via HDMI (as oppossed to the 5.1 that it is limited to without the update)

Does the ps3 do the actual decoding and then send the discrete channels to the 3806 for amplification?

Yes

No. Upating the firmware will not allow the 3806 to decode TrueHD/DTS-HD. It WILL allow you to receive a 7.1 PCM stream via HDMI (as oppossed to the 5.1 that it is limited to without the update)



Yes

So in other words, because the ps3 does the decoding and sends it to the 3806 I will be able to hear DTS HD MA and True HD on the 3806.

So in other words, because the ps3 does the decoding and sends it to the 3806 I will be able to hear DTS HD MA and True HD on the 3806.

Correct

Nice! I have ordered a usb serial adapter and will try the firmware update when it arrives, thanks.

Is it posible to use my Sony 46 X 3500 builit in speaker as Center speaker?

How should I wire it?

Thanks.

don't use your TV as a center speaker, it will sound terrible.

I am trying to set up my HTPC with my 3806 receiver. The problem I am having is that I can only get 2 channel sound to display on my AVR. I am trying to figure out if it is the PC output or a problem with the receiver. Am using a EVGA geforce 9300 motherboard that should be able to output 5.1 or 7.1 PCM.

Are there any known problems with HTPC's and the 3806? I read a little about the firmware update but if I don't need 7.1 (only 5.1) do I still need it? If the HTPC is trying to send 7.1 and my receiver will not accept it would it down convert to 2 channel?

I'm pretty sure I know the answer to this already, but I'm going to ask anyway. Does the 3806 do CEC?

don't use your TV as a center speaker, it will sound terrible.

Compared to a real center speaker, yes! But I don't like the looks of it.

But is it posible?

I am trying to set up my HTPC with my 3806 receiver. The problem I am having is that I can only get 2 channel sound to display on my AVR. I am trying to figure out if it is the PC output or a problem with the receiver. Am using a EVGA geforce 9300 motherboard that should be able to output 5.1 or 7.1 PCM.

Are there any known problems with HTPC's and the 3806? I read a little about the firmware update but if I don't need 7.1 (only 5.1) do I still need it? If the HTPC is trying to send 7.1 and my receiver will not accept it would it down convert to 2 channel?

Can anyone help with this?

I'm pretty sure I know the answer to this already, but I'm going to ask anyway. Does the 3806 do CEC?

No, although it will allow a DVD with CEC and a TV with CEC to interact with each other. My DVD player is connected via HDMI to my 3806 and the 3806 has HDMI out to my TV. For example, when I turn on my DVD player, the TV turns on as well.

I can't seem to do the firmware update. I tried a usb to serial adapter, no communication. Then I tried an rs232c straight cable and a borrowed laptop, no communication. I've tried changing the port settings, no luck. Any advice?

Some people just use the Setup Tool to save and restore the settings. Although it's no longer available at the original link (http://www.audioproducts.com.au/APGNZEnduser/ShowProducts.aspx?pid=AVR3806BK&type=2), there is a mirror copy at Archive.org (http://web.archive.org/web/20070903112410/http://www.audioproducts.com.au/APGNZEnduser/ShowProducts.aspx?pid=AVR3806BK&type=2). Or you can search for it at audioproducts.com.au (http://www.audioproducts.com.au/downloadcenter.aspx).
Pointing folks to archive.org is worthless unless they merely want to see what a site /used/ to look like. It does nothing for content other than flat HTML.

The target site merely relegated this model to an old model - all the info and downloads are still available here (http://www.audioproducts.com.au/productinfo.aspx?PID=AVR3806BK).

Success! I remembered having an old Compaq desktop in the garage, and it has a serial port on it. So I quick threw a hard drive in it and installed XP. Once connected to the 3806 the communications check passed quick and I did the update. 7.1 pcm, yay!

In short: how loud should the 3806 be for me?

My issue is that it just seems like it's not nearly as loud as I expected it to be.

I've got it hooked up to Klipsch speakers:
RF-35 in front
RC-35 center
RB-35s in surround and rear (I bought the system more for music than movie sound effects)
RW-12 subwoofer

I've been reluctant to crank the volume past -10dB - does it actually go into the positive range? Again, I had hoped that given this much wattage into 7 channels I would not have to flog this thing like a rented mule to get it to surpass my old Denon 5.1 AVR in volume.

I've also noticed that the volume from different sources varies GREATLY. I have a TiVo using "standard" RCA line in, and my XBOX is connected via an optical port. The TiVo volume blows the XBOX out of the water. When using the XBOX with the volume at about -15dB I can still hold a casual conversation or hear the phone ring.

I thought that I had the setup correct, and am actually looking at purchasing a replacement for this unit because of my dissatisfaction, but thought it best to post up just in case I've not set something correctly (or nearly need to crank the knob some more).

Pufferfishy, every input device outputs at different levels thus you experience difference between your connected devices. On the setup, I don't recall exactly where, you can ample the incoming signal for a low output device so you kind of balancing your devices as to hear at the same level.

Pointing folks to archive.org is worthless unless they merely want to see what a site /used/ to look like. It does nothing for content other than flat HTML.
I can download the ZIP and PDF files from archive.org. Sorry it was worthless for you.
The target site merely relegated this model to an old model - all the info and downloads are still available here (http://www.audioproducts.com.au/productinfo.aspx?PID=AVR3806BK).
Thanks for the new link.

I can download the ZIP and PDF files from archive.org. Sorry it was worthless for you.Mea Culpa - my browser blocks scripts - once I allowed the back end redirection the links work for me too. Typically the WayBack machine isn't so friendly. My bad.

a 3806 + Klipsch (very efficient speakers) setup should have huge volume, it should blow you out of the room when cranked.

since you say it's specific to the XBox 360 input, check and see if there is any Dynamic Range Compression (DRC) enabled (check both the 360's audio output settings and also the Denon's surround parameter settings). there are Dolby Digital -specific range compression settings that would affect the 360 input but not the analog input from the Tivo.

also, it may just be something about the input level. as mentioned above, you can specify a "source leve" specific to each input, so you can boost that input by +10dB or whatever to level it with the Tivo's audio.

Volume of 0 = the unattenuated signal from the amp, the volume control on these receivers is not a "gain" it's actually just an attenuation of the fully amplified signal. Anything in the negative means the signal is simply being attenuated, so as long as you are at 0 or below you are perfectly safe. It does go into the positive (maybe +10 or +15?) but at that point you are adding gain to the signal, so introducing additional distortion.... even then, it's still probably "safe", and if the receiver happens to get angry it will simply shut itself off in protect mode. You are more likely to damage a speaker from clipping/distortion at that point than hurt the amps, but it's still unlikely with a receiver as capable as the 3806.

Are your speakers all set to small and crossed over to the sub? Have you run Audyssey?

a 3806 + Klipsch (very efficient speakers) setup should have huge volume, it should blow you out of the room when cranked.Hmmm - decidedly not the case.
since you say it's specific to the XBox 360 input, check and see if there is any Dynamic Range Compression (DRC) enabled (check both the 360's audio output settings and also the Denon's surround parameter settings). there are Dolby Digital -specific range compression settings that would affect the 360 input but not the analog input from the Tivo.

also, it may just be something about the input level. as mentioned above, you can specify a "source leve" specific to each input, so you can boost that input by +10dB or whatever to level it with the Tivo's audio.
I will have to double check the settings - but sounds like it will put me on the right track..... Currently all inputs are at 0dB so at least I can add some gain to the XBOX
Are your speakers all set to small and crossed over to the sub? Have you run Audyssey?Yes and Yes. I think I tested with 5 or 6 points in the room.

All these issues with one receiver. Can anyone here say "class action"?

But who gets the first letter? Ridiculous...

a 3806 + Klipsch (very efficient speakers) setup should have huge volume, it should blow you out of the room when cranked.
I have a 3806 (handshake issues be damned!) with a 7.1 Klipsch setup in a 24 x 12 home theater with a Sanyo PLV-Z5 set at 92" diagonal.

RF35 for the fronts.
RC35 for the center.
RS35 for the front surrounds.
RS25 for the rear surrounds.
RW10 for the sub.

The sound is absolutely Crystal-Clear and Earth-Shattering! For my setup I can't ask for any better (except to maybe pass audio and video through HDMI which I've gone through every possible setting scenario and still can't seem to get it working at all).

BTW... has anyone experienced 3806 "handshake issues" with the PLV-Z5? I've never got the 3806 HDMI to pass video before. I run my HDMI direct from input device to projector and use fiber-optics for sound. Receiver was purchased in December of 2005 and hasn't had any firmware updates.

This is the changelog for the latest fw upgrade (at least for the EU version)

Changelog of Firmware AVR3806

28.09.2007
00.76
When the customer connected the source equipment to the COMPONENT input of an AV amplifier and AV amplifier and Display with HDMI connection, the customer controlled MASTER VOLUME up and down, a Flashing Noise indicates in a picture at once.

06.09.2006
00.72
Improvement of the transaction of Bass management setting
Improvement of support the Audio Digital signal at PC resolution (SVGA, XGA, etc.) from the HDMI input with DVD-3930 or DVD-2930

16.06.2006
00.59
Supporting the LPCM 7.1ch digital signal
Supporting the PC resolution (1600x 1200, 60Hz max.) from HDMI iput

05.12.2005
00.56
adjustement the pop noise when operating the REC SELECT
Depending upon the timing after the function is switched, the Setup OSD is sometimes not indicated when the System Setup Button was operated continuously.
Improement of the RS232C Serial Control

Hi everybody, I'm currently going through my audio system upgrade and I'm almost ready to pull a trigger on a nice set of speakers (Dali Helikon 800s),
the problem is that these speakers are 4ohm, for the time being I'd like to use my HT 3608 receiver until I get something more appropriate (maybe Cary SLI 80), so the question is... can this Denon 3608 handle 4ohm load??

Thanks:)

absolutely, the 3800-level Denons have very robust power supplies and amps. And, if it does push too hard, the AVR will shut itself down before you damage anything.

The nice thing is that it has pre-outs, so if you find that when you really crank the volume it sounds "weak" or goes into "protect" mode, you can just add a nice 2-channel amp to power the fronts and take a load off the 3806.

Try it out, see how it works, and then add an amp if you need to. You can get a killer used 2-channel amp for not much cash these days. Shoot, you can get a brand-new Emotiva XPA-3, which will do 400W/ch into 4 ohms for 2-channels, for $499.
http://www.emotiva.com/xpa3.shtm

absolutely, the 3800-level Denons have very robust power supplies and amps. And, if it does push too hard, the AVR will shut itself down before you damage anything.

The nice thing is that it has pre-outs, so if you find that when you really crank the volume it sounds "weak" or goes into "protect" mode, you can just add a nice 2-channel amp to power the fronts and take a load off the 3806.

Try it out, see how it works, and then add an amp if you need to. You can get a killer used 2-channel amp for not much cash these days. Shoot, you can get a brand-new Emotiva XPA-3, which will do 400W/ch into 4 ohms for 2-channels, for $499.
http://www.emotiva.com/xpa3.shtm

Thanks a lot, that's good news. As for the two channel I'm still debating on what to use but I might as well use the preout for now and go with two channel amp of choice.

Thanks again:D

Hi everybody, I'm currently going through my audio system upgrade and I'm almost ready to pull a trigger on a nice set of speakers (Dali Helikon 800s),
the problem is that these speakers are 4ohm, for the time being I'd like to use my HT 3608 receiver until I get something more appropriate (maybe Cary SLI 80), so the question is... can this Denon 3608 handle 4ohm load??

Thanks:)

The manual, at least for the EU version, is negative on the use of 4Ohm impedance speakers. You may use from 6 to 16Ohm impedance speakers. If you use 4Ohm speakers it will trigger the protector circuit

that's what the manual says but plenty of people do it anyway and are just fine, even with lower level (2800) Denons.

It seems the ability of the 3806 to drive low impedance speakers is difficult to determine other than trying the actual speakers. I use my 3806 as a preamp. Just for the heck of it I hooked my electrostatic speakers to the speaker terminals of the 3806. They are very very very inefficient (< 80dB for std. input 2.83V) and drop as low as 1.8 ohms. I played music all day at a level slightly louder than the loudest I nomally would. The 3806 got very hot but it always does. It never shut down. I was only driving two speakers and I've read others post that their unit shut down in only a few minutes driving bookshelf 4 ohm rated speakers. Interestingly I once set the 3806 (preamp output only) at max volume overnight to "breakin" a new crossover. Sometime during the night it shutdown. That was with NO speakers and the room was not hot (<70 degrees). I suspect multiple identical speakers that drop to low impedance in the midrange would be a worst case scenario. I still don't understand why mine shutdown w/o speakers hooked up.

I run large full range Dalquist DQ30 towers that are 4 ohm and very inefficient. They are in a pretty large room (18 x 36) and I listen to concerts and movies at reference levels.
The receiver shut down on me a few times and I ended up buying a Crown pro amp from Guitar Center for a couple hundred bucks for the mains and it has been fine since then.

I have a 3806 (handshake issues be damned!) with a 7.1 Klipsch setup in a 24 x 12 home theater with a Sanyo PLV-Z5 set at 92" diagonal.

RF35 for the fronts.
RC35 for the center.
RS35 for the front surrounds.
RS25 for the rear surrounds.
RW10 for the sub.

The sound is absolutely Crystal-Clear and Earth-Shattering! For my setup I can't ask for any better (except to maybe pass audio and video through HDMI which I've gone through every possible setting scenario and still can't seem to get it working at all).

BTW... has anyone experienced 3806 "handshake issues" with the PLV-Z5? I've never got the 3806 HDMI to pass video before. I run my HDMI direct from input device to projector and use fiber-optics for sound. Receiver was purchased in December of 2005 and hasn't had any firmware updates.

I had a handshake issue with my 3806 and sanyo z5, it was taken care of when I did the firmware update on the denon.

Simple question regarding firmware updating with my 3806:

The latest firmware, does it contain all previous updates, or does one have to install the previous firmware versions first? Is this latest one "all inclusive"? If so, which is the correct version number and where may I find the link to this latest upgrade?

There's 86 pages to sort through here and I've yet to find a link. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

The latest firmware, does it contain all previous updates, or does one have to install the previous firmware versions first? Is this latest one "all inclusive"? If so, which is the correct version number and where may I find the link to this latest upgrade?

There's 86 pages to sort through here and I've yet to find a link. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!See if searching for the latest 'rapidshare' gives you anything. I believe you just need the latest - actually there may only be 1 firmware release posted here anyway.

Latest FW Info
S/N: 6011516309
Main Ver00.76
Sub Ver00.56
DSP Ver00.45

Actually, I just ran across the following post on page 77 (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=12224920#post12224920) from "jimrobinette", 15 November 2007:


There's a part later in the post which has the link to the firmware.



All,

Just updated the firmware in my 3806 (bought Apr 2006) and thought I would quote a couple of other posts just to consolidate some info for people who are just coming to the thread.

It was a very simple procedure, the only problem being that I had to find a computer with a serial port! Since I own Mac computers, I had to borrow a Windows laptop.

1. Download file below
2. Decompress the file (look for a .rar extractor online).
3. There a two files: german language .pdf and an .exe file.
4. Double click the .exe file and it will install and put a shortcut on your desktop.
5. Run the program from the icon on the desktop and you are back in English for the rest of the procedure.
6. It will turn your 3806 off and then back on, updating in three phases, with the third being the longest.
7. It will take about 10-15 min.
8. You will soon be finished and enjoying 7.1 PCM!

I used a standard serial cable from Radio Shack.

To check firmware:
1. Turn on amp
2. ON/STBY steady green
3. Press small on/off
4. Hold both STATUS and ROOM EQ while turning on
5. Release STATUS/ROOM EQ
6. Press STATUS for mode AVR
7. Press STATUS again.

Before update, mine was:

Main - 00.56
Sub - 00.42
DSP - 00.43

After update:

Main - 00.76
Sub - 00.56
DSP - 00.45

I would like to thank Dutchman01 and aaronwt for their links and informative posts throughout this thread. Hope this helps somebody.

Take care,

Jim

Also, in the .pdf instructions, it shows a serial port cable used, male end (3806) to female end (pc). Has anyone tried using a serial port male end (3806) to USB (pc) connector?

The link for the EU version of the firmware is available upon request
There you will also find instructions in english

I recall having used successfully a usb-serial converter but there are so many out there that my success does not guarantee yours!
If you encounter problems remember to reduce the speed to 64Kbits, that should do it

The link for the EU version of the firmware is this (http://firmware.denon-online.eu/index.php)
There you will also find instructions in english
Check the link again. I input the correct information and received the following message:

Unfortunatelly we could not identify your product
Please re-check type of model, colour and serial number!
If you have filled in all data correctly, please contact your retailer who has sold you the DENON product, in order to update the software.

The DVD players serial number could not be verified.


So... I'll contact Crutchfield and see if they have the instructions and update in english... just to compare with my now translated version! LOL!

I had the same issue and the local Denon shop advised me to change the color ... and it worked. :)
As I said, this is the EU site, is your player bought in EU?
It could be that they actually check the origin :rolleyes:

Yeah... I purchased mine through Crutchfield.com here in the US. Funny... I wonder why Denon refuses to place these firmware updates on their US support page? "Hey! We have updates for your system, but you gotta ask nicely!"

I spent a few hours and translated the German .pdf into English. It's not perfect, but should suffice.

I bought an RS-232C cable on eBay and should receive it in a few days.

Also, in the .pdf instructions, it shows a serial port cable used, male end (3806) to female end (pc). Has anyone tried using a serial port male end (3806) to USB (pc) connector?

I tried to do it using this, but it didn't work.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16812149115&Tpk=usb%20serial%20adapter

So I bought this instead, and it worked just fine (had to find a pc with a serial port though).

http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2036255

I spent a few hours and translated the German .pdf into English. It's not perfect, but should suffice. Manual available upon request. Hope this helps in any way.

I bought an RS-232C cable on eBay and should receive it in a few days.

I could email you a copy of the instructions, should you want them from the official source. All you need to do is pm me with your email address

And... just like that. Firmware updated. My 3806 now works EXACTLY as I had hoped it would! Handshake issues are gone and the receiver passes audio and video, seamlessly, through HDMI. And the best part... 7.1 PCM, which sounds fantastic by the way, coming from my Sony PS3 Blu-ray player!! If only this thing had a better GUI.

I would like to thank all who helped provide the new firmware update with their related posts. It certainly has made life a bit easier with my 3806. Thank you!

Why does DENON refuse to offer these firmware upgrades to their customers in the US? I was about to spend 30 dollars in shipping, plus whatever they'd have charged me to update the firmware. Ridiculous.

And... just like that. Firmware updated. My 3806 now works EXACTLY as I had hoped it would! Handshake issues are gone and the receiver passes audio and video, seamlessly, through HDMI. And the best part... 7.1 PCM, which sounds fantastic by the way, coming from my Sony PS3 Blu-ray player!! If only this thing had a better GUI.

I would like to thank all who helped provide the new firmware update with their related posts. It certainly has made life a bit easier with my 3806. Thank you!

Why does DENON refuse to offer these firmware upgrades to their customers in the US? I was about to spend 30 dollars in shipping, plus whatever they'd have charged me to update the firmware. Ridiculous.

Thanks much for the translation!
Did you end up using a usb to serial cable?
I tried a prolific brand usb to serial w/o luck. I've literally looked at about 200 communication NG errors. I have to finally give up.

Banana plugs.

Hi, just found this forum and hoped to ask a question about my 3806. I bought this when it was first released in the UK. The binding posts on the back only seem to take non-banana plug connections (which is a pain) ie just the screw down type. The Uk manual only refers to being able to screw down, but the US one mentions banana plugs... Am I missing something obvious?

Many thanks
Matthew

take a photo for us, it's hard to say without seeing what they look like

Did you end up using a usb to serial cable?
I didn't even try the USB to serial cable. I did use the straight RS-232C cable, socket to plug ends, which I purchased through eBay... but I got impatient and bought one at Radio Shack anyway. Now I own two cables. Anyone want one cheap? PayPal?? LOL!

(Called Radio Shack and they originally said they didn't have one in stock, that's why I bought on eBay. Then I checked Radio Shack online and it said they did have one locally. The clerk re-checked his stock and found it. Time saved, but now I have two cables as I'm certain the other one will arrive today in the mail!)

This cable is really a "one-and-out" purchase. By that I mean I'll probably never use this cable again. Haven't needed one until now and will probably never need one again. But... I saved a ton in shipping and heartache in having this receiver gone for the Super Bowl!

Advice: Make certain you're running Windows XP and that you do have an RS-232C serial port available on your PC. Follow all the instructions in shutting down software before running the program. I even went so far as to turn off my internet connection and shut off my firewall before running this thing. It accepted the upgrade without incident the very first time I tried.

Hope this helps... oh, and if anyone wants a deal on a cable, just email me (kevin@sky-decks.com). I'll mail out to US only via USPS Priority Mail, flat-rate envelope.

EDIT: I just read the part about not publishing the instructions on the internet. Don't want to get sued... so I killed the link... sorry!

...but the US one mentions banana plugs... Am I missing something obvious?
Probably. Sometimes the center of the binding post will have a little cap on the end of it that covers the banana plug hole. Don't ask me why some manufacturers do this... I don't know. You'll see the cap on the end that looks like a little "hub cap". Just pry them off with a thin tool and you should be good to go. Make sure the cap is screwed down tightly on the binding post so the banana plug can be inserted all the way in.

Matt,

welcome to the forum!

All you have to do is to remove the small red /black plastic covers with a knife or screwdriver and you'll be able to use the banana plugs, though.

Regards, Chuck

Banana plugs.

Hi, just found this forum and hoped to ask a question about my 3806. I bought this when it was first released in the UK. The binding posts on the back only seem to take non-banana plug connections (which is a pain) ie just the screw down type. The Uk manual only refers to being able to screw down, but the US one mentions banana plugs... Am I missing something obvious?

Many thanks
Matthew

I have a Denon 3806 and need to re-run Audyssey because I have re-arranged my room. Plus, I did the firmware upgrade a long time ago and never re-ran Audyssey after the upgrade. Anyway, I was reading through this entire thread and somewhere around March 2007 there was a reference to a PC based setup program that you run on a PC and connect to the 3806 through the serial port on the back. The link to the program didn't work, but got me to a site in Australia. I just kept poking around on the site until I found it. Here is the link to the site - the download section.

http://www.audioproducts.com.au/downloadcenter.aspx

Has anyone used this setup tool? Is it worth the trouble? Setting up the 3806 is not the easiest or most intuitive thing to do, so I thought I might try this program.

I downloaded the program and pdf file with instructions. The instructions are a very poor English translation, I assume from the original Japanese. If I wind up using it, I'll post my results and my impressions of the program.

It appears that you can save your setup to your PC and then restore it later.

Robert

Yes, I used it to restore my settings after the firmware upgrade. Assigning all the inputs and renaming them all was much easier with the pc tool than the remote.

Just took an old computer with a serial port downstairs and did the update. No problems at all.

Handshake is much improved. I used to have to turn my Oppo 981 on last, open the tray, wait for the Oppo screensaver and then load the DVD. If I did any other sequence, it wouldn't pass the signal into my Optoma HD 70 via the Denon.

Still have to run Audyssey set up.

I don't have Blu-ray yet but decided to update anyway.

Added the PS3 this weekend. No problems with any of the surround codecs through HDMI or video through the Denon and into my HD 70.

For lack of a better analogy, my 3806 seems to have been "unlocked" since the update. Sound clarity appears to be much richer with more depth, and my subwoofer sounds the best it ever has! All-around, I wish I'd found out about this update last year to have enjoyed more time with it. I really don't know why Denon refuses to offer this update to their US customers like me. If I didn't find this EU update, I'd still be without HDMI function. Thanks again to all who helped in this thread! Maybe now I can sell my component cables once and for all!

Hi Everyone,
Question about the 3806...why does this receiver still cost so much? I realize it is a solid piece of equipment, but I see the 2808 and 2809, both of which seem to have more features are less expensive. As well, the 3808ci is only a $200 dollars more than the 3806. Is there something with the 3806 that keeps it price so high, even though the receiver is a couple of models back in the Denon line up. Thanks.

where are you seeing prices? the model is discontinued. I see a refurb on ecost for $600ish or so but that's it, what are you seeing?

It generally sells on ebay for $400-500 or so, which is a little less than 988/2808 sells for used. Sounds right on to me, people are willing to pay extra for the quality of the 3800 series (3801/3802 still sells for $150-200-ish, 3803 for $250ish, 3805 for $350-400).

The 3806, with analog>digital video conversion, MultEQ XT, and 7.1 PCM over HDMI, is still a very strong featured receiver and not even close to obsolesence.

I'm seeing the prices for all units at Dakmart...I've heard this is a reputable Denon dealer...b stock, but comes with Warranty.

oh, that's just because they are an authorized dealer providing a warranty, so they charge a premium. I wouldn't pay $800 for it. They also charge almost $600 for the 2807, when you can get the 988/2808 cheaper if you look around, so dealer pricing isn't always 100% rational relative to the used market.

I see...so let me ask you. Do you think the 2809 or 3808 are an upgrade over the 3806?

The 3808CI definitely is, it's two years newer, at the same "level", and has many more features, extra HDMI inputs, etc.

The 2809 vs. 3806.... depends on your preferences. The 2809 has a lot more features plus 4 HDMI, but there are some people who believe the 3800 level has superior sound quality so would prefer to have the older 3806 and give up a few extra new features.

Great...that is helpful info. Thanks.

Some questions.

With the 3806 running toslink from macbook pro to vcr2 input via optical. Hook x-can v3 to vcr2 output but no sound. 3806 doesn't convert digital to analog.

Hook analog out headphone out on macbook pro to vcr2 input. Hook x-can to vcr2 outputs on back of 3806. No sound thru vcr2 output to headphone amp. (analog to analog)

Do I need a dac to make this work?.

How do I get output to any of the output jacks on the back of the 3806 to power the headphone amp?

Do I need an external dac?

Plays fine thru speakers with either of the above setups.

x-can plays when headphone jack on 3806 is plugged into rca cable from headphone out jack, but methinks the power isn't very strong for the headphone amp.

Happy to take pictures if it will help.

Unhappy to buy a dac to convert signal.

Any ideas? I've read the manual, tried a myriad of settings in setup with no luck.

Do I need to run the power amp assignment to zone 2 for output and uncouple the front speakers as dual wired?

Does this have something to do with hdmi cables that are hooked up for the tv and disc players?

Sorry if this isn't written clearly.

TIA

to get sound out of the REC OUT jacks (analog or optical) you need to press the ZONE/REC SELECT button on the left side of the unit, under the big function dial, and then once it says "REC OUT" you select the source.

As you have found, however, I don't believe it does analog>digital or digital>analog conversion for the REC OUT jacks.

I just connected a squeezebox network music player via TOSLINK optical to my 3806.

No matter how high I push the volume, I can't get my subwoofer to kick in.

This has never been a problem with the other components I have connected (DVD/CD player, cable box, various CD players)...as I increase volume on the 3806, my paradigm sub will eventually turn on...not so with the squeezebox no matter how high I go.

I'm a novice when it comes to the 3806...had it for a few years, and dread adding new A/V components or messing with the settings.

Is there a simple way to increase the SW level so my sub will kick in?

I've looked through the manual and I'm just not sure...I wanted to ask here before I start fooling with the settings.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

what surround mode are you in?

what surround mode are you in?

Right now 5CH...I've tried a few others as well.

and the sub works fine with 2 CH music coming from your CD player?

and the sub works fine with 2 CH music coming from your CD player?

I play my CDs through my Denon CD/DVD player - I know it has some sort of bass management...never had a problem with SW level when playing CDs or DVDs through it on any of the surround settings or direct.

try setting the subwoofer to "LFE+MAIN", both in the standard speaker settings and the special "2 CH DIRECT/STEREO" settings.

try setting the subwoofer to "LFE+MAIN", both in the standard speaker settings and the special "2 CH DIRECT/STEREO" settings.

I will check to make sure it is set up that way tomorrow...my wife just got home, and now it's dinner time.

She'll kill me if I tinker with this thing anymore this evening.

:rolleyes:

Thank you for your help.

I made the changes in setup to reflect LFE+MAIN and now there is a lot more bass present, but the SW still stays off on most sources. When I stream a DTS file, the SW clicks on like always though.

Why do I get better SW response through the analog EXT OUT jacks on my Denon DVD player than I do with the TOSLINK digital out on this squeezebox when playing the exact same material? Is that what bass management is all about?

Sorry if these questions would have been best posed elsewhere and/or come across as too novice.

When you say the EXT OUT jacks on the DVD player are you referring to multichannel analog? and you are using the EXT IN jacks on the 3806, right? So the DVD player is performing the bass management -- in this situation, the 3806 will play whatever is given to it on any channel. When you are using the EXT IN jacks the 3806 is just being used as an amplifier, so since the ".1" analog cable is getting information from the DVD player.

The difference you are hearing may be as simple as the bass management settings on DVD player vs. AVR not being the same. With the squeezebox you are getting a 2.0 signal, whereas it sounds like your DVD player is giving a pre-bass-managed 2.1 signal over multichannel analog, which "forces" output on the subwoofer channel.

I made the changes in setup to reflect LFE+MAIN and now there is a lot more bass present, but the SW still stays off on most sources.

That doesn't make any sense, the only reason there would be "more bass present" when you switch to LFE+MAIN is because your subwoofer is on! It's impossible that you are getting more bass with LFE+MAIN but the subwoofer isn't the one doing it.

I still believe you have improper bass management going on in the receiver. Do you have your speakers set to LARGE or something?

I still believe you have improper bass management going on in the receiver. Do you have your speakers set to LARGE or something?

I think when I went in to change the setting to LFE+MAIN, I noticed speaker set to LARGE - you are saying this is incorrect?

I did auto-setup with the mic a few years ago, and haven't really messed with the 3806 since.

Thank you for your assistance.

well there we have it. the reason your sub isn't playing is because you haven't told the receiver to use bass management. that is what the small/large designation actually means. when you set a speaker to "large" you are telling the receiver to send it a full range signal and not redirect to the sub. unless the speakers are set to "small" the receiver will not perform bass management.

well there we have it. the reason your sub isn't playing is because you haven't told the receiver to use bass management. that is what the small/large designation actually means.

THANK YOU!

That's it...sub came to life after I made that change.

Always knew this receiver was way over my head...

Thanks again for taking the time to help me...I've been listening to this thing set up incorrectly for the last two years.

excellent, better late than never :)

perhaps you should even venture into bold new waters and try re-running Audyssey MultEQ XT ;)

perhaps you should even venture into bold new waters and try re-running Audyssey MultEQ XT ;)

I'm in a tiny apartment in NYC...don't know how much help the setup would be since I'm sitting so close to the speakers/system...literally only a few feet away.

Maybe some day if I get a real "home" someplace I'll try the audyssey setup again.

I wish the 3806 were more intuitive, and I didn't have to come her to get answers...thanks again.

Anyone know the reason why the volumn cut off or max out at -2 when I play music from Squeezebox in two chs and is there a way to increase that since I want to play louder. Thanks in advance!!!

Hi, i have a Denon 3806 and a Oppo 980 conected HDMI
The 3806 have Hdmi 1.1 the Oppo 1.2
Oppo configuration:
If your receiver supports HDMI v1.1 Multi-Channel PCM audio, most likely it also support DTS
and/or Dolby Digital decoding and has surround speakers. Please set these DVD player
options:
o Speaker Setup Page > Down-mix to “7.1 CH” or “5.1 CH” (Depending on your
receiver and speaker configuration)
o Speaker Setup Page > Front Speaker to “Large”
o Speaker Setup Page > Center Speaker to “Large”
o Speaker Setup Page > Surround Speaker to “Large”
o Speaker Setup Page > S. Back Speaker to “Small” (for 7.1CH setup only)
o Speaker Setup Page > Subwoofer to “On”
o Audio Setup Page > Digital Output to “Raw”
o Audio Setup Page > HDMI Audio to “Auto”
o Audio Setup Page > SACD Output to “PCM”

The 3806 HDMI seted on Auto

Can I reproduce SACD ?
Thanks
:):):)

si! it should work just fine :)

Can the 3806 convert video that comes in via HDMI (from a Popcorn Hour unit) to component output?

The signal would not have any kind of copy protection on it.

Alternatively, if this does not work; does anybody know if I can feed video via component from something like the Popcorn Hour and feed the audio via HDMI from the Popcorn hour? I don't know if the Popcorn hour can feed video to two outputs simultaneously (or split video and audio this way).

The monitor does not have HDMI.

no, no receivers will convert HDMI IN to Component OUT. You can buy a separate device for this, many people use HDFury to convert HDMI to component (i.e. if you already had installed a component video distribution system in your house, it's a lot easier to use this than re-wire the whole joint with HDMI):
http://www.hdfury.com/

You can mix component video with HDMI audio if you want, as long as the device can output both at the same time. You just have to assign both to the same input name.

Does the Popcorn thing have HD audio? If not, why not just use component + optical?

well there we have it. the reason your sub isn't playing is because you haven't told the receiver to use bass management. that is what the small/large designation actually means. when you set a speaker to "large" you are telling the receiver to send it a full range signal and not redirect to the sub. unless the speakers are set to "small" the receiver will not perform bass management.

Setting the speakers to small made a big difference with my 3806. Much better sound and better low end out of my SVS cylinder.

Thanks again Batpig for your Denon writeup. I'm sure it's helped lots of people!!

Thanks for the compliments, Craig :)

I wonder how many people don't understand the small/large setting (which is confusingly named unfortunately) and sit there wondering why their bad-ass sub feels so wimpy....

I am trying to hook up a Wii to my HT. I have the Wii going through my Denon 3806 reviever, then via HDMI to my Panasonic AE900 projector. When I had the Wii hooked to the receiver with just a video cable, it worked. When I tried to "upgrade" to component, there is a handshake problem.
I have checked the manuals for all of my components and it seems like it should work. the Wii picture will occasionally show up on the screen, but then goes to blue. I have the settings on the receiver set to video convert over the HDMI.

Why would it send the signal without problem with a single video cable, but not with component? Any help is appreciated.

Why would it send the signal without problem with a single video cable, but not with component?
Maybe the component cable is flakey. Have you tried connecting the component cable directly to a display to check it?

Maybe the component cable is flakey. Have you tried connecting the component cable directly to a display to check it?

Yes, it worked fine hooked directly to a plasma. I also tried using the other 2 component ins on the receiver.

I'm not sure what else you could try. I tested the Wii 480p component through my 3806, then via HDMI to my LCD monitor, and it works fine for me.

Yes, it worked fine hooked directly to a plasma. I also tried using the other 2 component ins on the receiver.
Have you updated your receiver to the latest firmware? Handshake issues are non-existant since I updated.

Have you updated your receiver to the latest firmware? Handshake issues are non-existant since I updated.

I am at work at the moment and don't have my manual. I don't remember it having a USB port or ethernet port. How do you upgrade the firmware?

edit: looked at the online manual and don't see anything in there about being able to update the firmware

edit: nevermind. Did a search here and see that it is through the serial port. Is the latest firmware version the same one that is in post #2381 from 3-16-08? And being an update from the Europe site, is there any problem installing it on a US version?

Is the latest firmware version the same one that is in post #2381 from 3-16-08?
That's the right one.
And being an update from the Europe site, is there any problem installing it on a US version?
I had no problems installing it my US model.

I am having a recurring issue with my 3806. If I am not giving enough information, please let me know. Occasionally, I will hear a small pop through the speakers and then I will lose audio. On the display, it shows nothing for the input icons. Sometimes, I can reset the audio by going into the main Tivo menu or power cycling the amp, but I have incidents like right now where nothing will reset it. And then it started losing video as well. I reset the HDMI cables, switch the input settings, try bluray, component and optical cables, power cycle, reset the microprocessor, and the 3806 doesn't register any input. Yesterday, it reset itself as I was trying different things, today nothing works. Any suggestion or do I need to send for repair or buy a new one?

This happened a few months ago and then one of the cable cards in the Tivo failed and was replaced and it didn't happen for a while. At the time, I thought the cable card was the issue but now I am not so sure. I don't want to buy something new but I don't know how else to troubleshoot the issue.

Thanks,
Ross

Sometimes it pays to check the mundane...like making sure all the connections (speakers, everything else) are in solidly.

I have had issues recently with both the upstairs *3806* and downstairs rigs *Onkyo* that could be traced to loose speaker wire connections.

I am having a recurring issue with my 3806. If I am not giving enough information, please let me know. Occasionally, I will hear a small pop through the speakers and then I will lose audio. On the display, it shows nothing for the input icons. Sometimes, I can reset the audio by going into the main Tivo menu or power cycling the amp, but I have incidents like right now where nothing will reset it. And then it started losing video as well. I reset the HDMI cables, switch the input settings, try bluray, component and optical cables, power cycle, reset the microprocessor, and the 3806 doesn't register any input. Yesterday, it reset itself as I was trying different things, today nothing works. Any suggestion or do I need to send for repair or buy a new one?

This happened a few months ago and then one of the cable cards in the Tivo failed and was replaced and it didn't happen for a while. At the time, I thought the cable card was the issue but now I am not so sure. I don't want to buy something new but I don't know how else to troubleshoot the issue.

Thanks,
Ross

Additional info: In the status menus it showed DSP Error 1 and shows a firmware version of 0.0. Based on that I decided to upgrade the firmware last night and while the first two sections updated, the DSP section shows a communication timeout. Tried lowering the receive and transmit settings for the COM port, but I think that section of the EEPROM must be dead or corrupted.

Hi I have a PS3 connected to 3806 via HDMI and since 3806 has only one HDMI out I have a HDMI out to my projector and component out to my TV. The problem is I can't see any video signal from component out to tv. Is Denon capable of sending video signal to both component out and HDMI out (I don't watch it simultaneously) or does HDMI overides component signal? thanks.

no receiver can "downconvert" HDMI video due to copy restrictions. easiest thing would probably be to split the HDMI output.

It was dropped on a slate floor, and is now completely non-functional.

I'm not gonna give her any more grief about it...as she feels bad enough as it is.

Is there a universal remote that will control the 3806?

Any recommendations?

It was dropped on a slate floor, and is now completely non-functional.

I'm not gonna give her any more grief about it...as she feels bad enough as it is.

Is there a universal remote that will control the 3806?

Any recommendations?

First of all you could buy a replacement of the original rc
Secondly, Logitech's Harmony (http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/remotes/universal_remotes/devices/4708&cl=roeu,en?WT.ac=pl|5505||hp) series of rc's would do the trick, as well

your wife just did you a favor, go buy the Harmony One ;)

your wife just did you a favor, go buy the Harmony One ;)

So I will be able to control all the major functions of the 3806 with the Harmony remote...even without a functioning original 3806 remote?

Only universal remotes I've ever used, you had to "teach" the universal remote with the original remote before it would work...I've always hated the original 3806 remote, and would love to be rid of it forever if possible.

Thank you for your input on this issue as well as other 3806 issues I've had in the past.

Cheers,

Jake

Harmony's have the ability to "learn" like other universals, but the primary benefit is that Logitech maintains a massive database of IR commands for thousands of manufacturers. The Denon database has every command you will need. Everything is programmed on your computer via a graphical interface and then you just plug in the remote with a USB cable and upload your commands.

And the "Activity" based design is awesome, all your wife will have to do is push one button that says "Watch TV" or "Watch a DVD" and the remote will automatically turn on all of your devices, set your TV and receiver to the correct inputs, and you can map any button to do whatever you want. Read up on Harmony reviews online to get a feel for them.
http://reviews.cnet.com/remote-controls/logitech-harmony-one/4505-7900_7-32825878.html

And you don't have to justify spending the money, because it's her fault that the other one broke and she feels bad about it! Capitalize upon this opportunity and grab the Harmony One before she gets mad at you about something else. ;)

Anyone know if you can select Zone-2 and Zone-3 to "Source" so that when they are turned on it goes to what ever source is on in the main Zone?

Thanks,

yes, but you have to use the source select button and knob on the unit itself, you can't do it with the remote AFAIK.

press the "ZONE 2/3 / REC OUT" button on the left side, under the source select dial, to select the appropriate Zone, and then rotate the knob until it says "SOURCE".

Great, Thank you.

Does the 3806 provide a way to mute the speaker outputs without muting the pre-out outputs? (with the idea that I want to use both, but not at the same time)

no, unfortunately they are both active at all times.

no, unfortunately they are both active at all times.
OK. That's what I thought.

are you trying to use one receiver to drive two separate 5.1 setups or something?

are you trying to use one receiver to drive two separate 5.1 setups or something?
Yes, that's the idea. The other setup will use the line-level pre-out signals from the 3806.

Sorry to bother, but there are 89 pages, and my searching so far has revealed nothing. My boss has an AVR-3806 and needs a firmware update. We are in the US, and I went to the denon site and found absolutely nothing. Can anyone tell me where I can download the latest firmware (and instructions for updating). Thanks!

I'm interested in connecting the 3806 by cable to the Harmony RF Extender in order to receive IR commands without pasting the IR blasters onto the front panel of the 3806. Has anyone done this?

I failed to find the size of the "Remote Control-for other rooms" female ports on the 3806 in the User's Guide. I failed. :rolleyes:

Does anyone know if they are 1/8" or 3.5mm?

I have a 3806 and just updated to the latest firmware version yesterday. Thanks to this thread it was very easy to do.

I have a Sony Blu ray player connected to my 3806 via HDMI. Quick question: is it correct that whenever I play a Blu ray with True HD (which I know the 3806 is not capable of) that the front panel of the receiver will display "Multi channel in" and not Dolby Digital or something else?

yes, that is correct. the 3806 only takes PCM over HDMI, so to hear the lossless audio codecs you will need the player to decode first. sound quality is identical either way.

the display should read "MULTI CH IN" in "standard" decoding mode.

I have a 3806 and just updated to the latest firmware version yesterday. Thanks to this thread it was very easy to do.

Any reason to update my firmware? What might the current firmware do that the original firmware does not do? My 3806 works perfectly, so I sort of hate to mess with something that isn't broken.

I wouldn't touch a thing if you have it all working fine.

The firmware AFAIK allows for 7.1 PCM over HDMI (I believe you were restricted to 5.1 with the original firmware) and may fix some HDMI "handshake" problems with certain devices. If you search the thread I'm sure you will turn up some other info.

I wouldn't touch a thing if you have it all working fine.

That's what I was thinking. I'm more inclined to get a new 4310 anyway.

Thanks.

I understand that some are hesitant to do an firmware upgrade... I succeded in bricking a laptop about 15 years ago in a bios update that went awry... However, today I took laptop in hand and had at it...

Some questioned whether or not a null modem cable is to be used.. No... Just a plain, straight serial cable... COM1 at 8,N,1 and 115,000...

It took about 10-12 minutes... Goes in 3 stages... Shows the CMOS being erased, then the new file written... 1 & 2 go pretty quickly, say a minute or two each.. 3 is the DSP section, and it takes much longer... I'll be honest, I held my breath as the completion bar crawled across the screen... Mine did the last 1/3 almost instantly, after a moderate, heart-pounding pause...

Will I do 7.1 over HDMI, I doubt it.... Just upgraded cause it was there to do, although the handshake fixes may solve a future issue...

Going back to a previous question...sort of....


My TV is component, no hdmi. Am I correct that I can feed the component video into the receiver for video, and the audio from blu ray (which I should set up to come in as pcm) over hdmi? Is there a way to program the machine to make such a set up default (as opposed to separately dialing in video and audio each time).

Thanks.

The 3806 will NOT convert HDMI video down to component. I think if you are using the component from your Blue Ray, you will need to use either the Optical or Coax cable for the sound. It would depend on your Blue Ray player. I am not sure the player will send the audio over the HDMI unless it is also sending the video.

You should configure your Blue Ray player to output the video on Component and the audio on Optical/Coax. Then setup one of the 3806 inputs (like the DVD input) to use the component input you plugged the Blue Ray into, and the Optical/Coax you plugged the audio into. Once that is done, all should work fine. And you should not have to change things.

Greg

Going back to a previous question...sort of....


My TV is component, no hdmi. Am I correct that I can feed the component video into the receiver for video, and the audio from blu ray (which I should set up to come in as pcm) over hdmi? Is there a way to program the machine to make such a set up default (as opposed to separately dialing in video and audio each time).

Thanks.

I really think it depends on the player -- some players should let you output HDMI audio so you can hear the lossless tracks, even while you are using component for the video.

Batpig is correct; my blu ray player can in fact output audio to hdmi and video to component.

The question is how best to set up the Denon to accommodate that.

I would assign BOTH a component video input and an HDMI input to the same "name", e.g. "DVD". Hook up the BDP with both cables, and the component video signal should output through out of the component MONITOR OUT.

You may have to toggle "Input Mode" to "HDMI" (in Input Setup) to force it to get the audio from the HDMI connection.

Hopefully that works.

Sorry to bother, but there are 89 pages, and my searching so far has revealed nothing. My boss has an AVR-3806 and needs a firmware update. We are in the US, and I went to the denon site and found absolutely nothing. Can anyone tell me where I can download the latest firmware (and instructions for updating). Thanks!


http://www.aaronwt.net/downloads/

http://www.aaronwt.net/downloads/Denon3806Firmware/

Batpig....

To toggle HDMI audio....is that done from the setup menu or from another location? I have finally moved the blu ray player to what I hope will be its new home and am currently working on the project. Once I get the video feed going (think hooking it up via composite in order to get to the set up menus will work)...then I'll work on the audio feed.

Thanks.

Hmm, looking at the manual (pg 28-29) it looks like the 3806's "Input Mode" is the older style which toggles between Auto/PCM/DTS/ANALOG/EXT-IN. On newer models this is called "Decode Mode" and there is a separate "Input Mode" button while allows you to force a certain input source.

Anyway, it shouldn't be an issue if this works, because HDMI audio is the highest-priority audio signal, so it should default to that if you have correctly assigned both the HDMI and component video inputs to the same "name".

OK; go the Panasonic Blu-Ray to work nicely with the 3806. Component 1080i video and PCM decodes from hi res audio over HDMI.

Thanks all for your help. This lets me move along until I trade in a bunch of toys for an Oppo 83 or the follow-on.

HDMI 1.1 or 1.3a?
UK site: http://www.denon.co.uk/site/popup/index.php?Pid=238&action=start&ver= (1.1)

US site: http://www.usa.denon.com/ProductDetails/623.asp 1.3a

not that it really matters.. ^_^

the 3806 came out long before 1.3, the HDMI inputs are clearly HDMI 1.1 as detailed in the specs. where exactly are you seeing it listed as 1.3a?

Oh yeah 1.1 for sure for sure

HDMI 1.1 or 1.3a?
UK site: http://www.denon.co.uk/site/popup/index.php?Pid=238&action=start&ver= (1.1)

US site: http://www.usa.denon.com/ProductDetails/623.asp 1.3a

not that it really matters.. ^_^

Only the fields with a green check mark are valid for the 3806 - referring to the US site

I just want to confirm what I think I understood from a previous conversation on this thread.

If I send an audio/video signal to the 3806 via HDMI it should be able to decode the audio without having a display attached to the receiver. Is that correct?

What I'm doing is using an HTPC and sending the HDMI output of the video card to the 3806 for audio and the DVI output of the card to a Panasonic projector.

I want to ensure that I can do this without having to attach the projector directly to the receiver. The reason is that the HTPC and receiver are on opposite sides of the room and it saves a second long HDMI cable run.

Thanks!

Hi Josh,

The only kink in your plan is that you may need a display attached to the receiver in order to configure your input mode (dvd for example) to hdmi 1 or 2. This could only be a temporary thing, since you would not need a display connected after the receiver is configured. I have a friend with a similar setup to yours. He picked up a small 10" monitor for his media rack and connected a component video output from the receiver to the monitor. This saved him from turning on his projector anytime he wanted to make adjustments to ther receiver.... and it of course allowed him to make adjustments to equilizer settings whenever he wanted.

Hope that helps.

-James

I have been having trouble with HDMI thru my 3806. I have a Panasonic BD player connected to one of the HDMI inputs on the 3806. I also connect my PC with an DVI/HDMI cable to the other input. I have run the PC at both 720P and 1080i outputs. It is a NVIDIA GF7600GS card. The output from the 3806 is connected to my Sony 720P RPT with a HDMI cable.

I am having intermittent troubles getting the BD player to connect to the TV with the HDMI switched through the 3806. Sometimes it works fine. Other times, the BD player will not connect. I can see the TV try to sync the signal, then the BD Player gives an error 73, HDMI/HDCP error. Recently, while this problem was happening, I also noticed that the 3806 would not convert its Setup display to show over the HDMI. Normally the 3806 Setup display converts correctly and displays on the HDMI output.

I have read in the 3806 manual that if a "non-standard" signal is input on the HDMI, may not convert the video to HDMI. But I am not sure this is the cause since the BD player is sending a digital HDMI signal that does not need conversion. Also, the PC is configured to treat the 3806/HDTV as an HDTV at either 720p or 1080i.

Anyway, when the problem occurs, I have tried disabling the PC display to the 3806, and even tried disconnecting the PC cable. No joy. Turning the 3806 and/or TV and/or BD player does not seem to clear things up either. Strangely, leaving everything off overnight, without changing anything, and it works fine again.

Any ideas about this? Does the latest firmware have any affect on the video conversion/switching?

Greg

the latest firmware could definitely improve handshaking, it may be worth a shot if your component aren't "playing nice".

Hi Josh,

The only kink in your plan is that you may need a display attached to the receiver in order to configure your input mode (dvd for example) to hdmi 1 or 2. This could only be a temporary thing, since you would not need a display connected after the receiver is configured. I have a friend with a similar setup to yours. He picked up a small 10" monitor for his media rack and connected a component video output from the receiver to the monitor. This saved him from turning on his projector anytime he wanted to make adjustments to ther receiver.... and it of course allowed him to make adjustments to equilizer settings whenever he wanted.

Hope that helps.

-James

Thanks for the response. I do have an HDMI monitor that I could connect temporarily. I'll check it out after my ATI card and HDMI cable arrive and see if it needs to be permanent or not.

I'm running into what I think are EDID issues with the 3806 and ATI Radeon 4670 card. When playing multichannel PCM content the receiver only displays 2-channel direct.

There is an EDID Overide Thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1091403) that discusses a manual fix for this problem. Has anyone seen this issue or have the .inf file needed to fix this?