Denon 3806 Owners Thread [Text View] - Page 3

ethw

12-14-05, 03:37 PM

spinee

12-14-05, 03:52 PM

I also cannot get anything but just regular stereo on DVD. I'll dig up my Sony manual to see if I'm missing something tonight. Anyone knows why?
don't know that specific model, but my old sony player had menu options that let you choose between raw dts/dd and pcm for digital output. if you set it for pcm, all you'll get is stereo.

BodegaBay

12-14-05, 04:44 PM

...DirecTV HD-Tivo to 3806 (HDMI-HDMI and optical for sound)
...I guess the only problem I have is with sound: no sound on DirecTV with only HDMI, hence my optical connection...

I think the HD-Tivo unit used an earlier version of the HDMI spec without audio, hence audio output is either the digital or analog outs. I own a HD-Tivo and it has never passed audio through the HDMI connection.

ethw

12-14-05, 05:02 PM

spinee - thanks, will check the DVD setting, it's a Sony DVP NS-575P

BodegaBay - before 3806, I had only the HDMI connection from the HD-Tivo to my TV and sound was passing through so it was working for me. My unit is about 9 months old.

BodegaBay

12-14-05, 05:21 PM

BodegaBay - before 3806, I had only the HDMI connection from the HD-Tivo to my TV and sound was passing through so it was working for me. My unit is about 9 months old.

You're right that you'll get audio through HD-Tivo's HDMI, but I believe that is only for 2 channel, not multi-chanel digital (e.g. DD and DTS). Do you remember if you got sound from the TV on HD channels? Just to confirm, you did not connect any analog audio cables from HD-Tivo to the Sony TV, just HDMI, right?

ethw

12-14-05, 07:11 PM

that's right, only HDMI cable from Tivo and got audio (SD & HD) on the TV before.

BodegaBay

12-14-05, 07:25 PM

That is interesting.

Nathan_R

12-14-05, 11:09 PM

Question: you folks with 6412s, have you contacted your local cable service providers on a possible solution for the hdmi issue?

I've had an ongoing, polite dialogue with a Comcast service rep regarding the hdmi repeater / hdcp handshake issue, but he/she will not forward my comments to the engineering department or give me a way to contact the firmware team directly. In fact, Comcast is telling me the HDMI port on the 6412 isn't even active.

Back on topic, after playing with the 3806 for a couple of weeks, I'm pretty damned pleased with it. The video transcoding feature is quite nice. I've found that the auto-setup routine isn't for me, though. It just can't possibly replace an SPL meter for accuracy. It's a good start, and cuts down on calibration time, but it's not (and nor do I expect it to be) perfect.

BodegaBay

12-14-05, 11:19 PM

...I've found that the auto-setup routine isn't for me, though. It just can't possibly replace an SPL meter for accuracy. It's a good start, and cuts down on calibration time, but it's not (and nor do I expect it to be) perfect.

That's too bad. With my setup, the Auto Setup is damn near perfect. The Room EQ nicely tunes the peaks and valleys inherint in my room.

Malik1

12-14-05, 11:37 PM

I was having HDMI issues(Just flashes, no picture, no sound) and I called Crutchfield tech support to discuss it. They called denon they basically told the tech at crutchfield that it was definitely a synching problem. They said that the receiver must be turned on first and they used the sorry a$$ excuse that "the technology is still new" Well if it is that new then they need to stop using customers' homes and bank accounts for their test bed and refine the research that they should have done themselves prior to the release of a product. I am really upset because I actually love my set up when it is working right. I'd hate to return this stuff go Yamaha and not be totally pleased. I have some things to consider.

BodegaBay

12-15-05, 12:02 AM

I was having HDMI issues...they used the sorry a$$ excuse that "the technology is still new" Well if it is that new then they need to stop using customers' homes and bank accounts for their test bed and refine the research that they should have done themselves prior to the release of a product. I am really upset because I actually love my set up when it is working right. I'd hate to return this stuff go Yamaha and not be totally pleased.

It's not a "sorry ass excuse." They are correct in that the technology is still new. The HDMI spec is still changing to meet high definition and high resolution needs at time progresses. Denon, AFAIK, is following the HDMI 1.1 spec to the letter and is implementing it correctly. As other veteran members here have alluded to, it's the other component manufacturers (namely OEMs for cable boxes and certain DVD player mfgs.) that do not get it right. If you decide to return this unit for the Yamaha, you'll more likely encounter the same problem.

Denon, like Yamaha, are multi million dollar companies that have a lot of R&D resources. You bet they're going to test their products -- moreso than these other cable boxes manufacturers.

tucson_bill

12-15-05, 10:16 AM

that's right, only HDMI cable from Tivo and got audio (SD & HD) on the TV before.And did you have Dolby digital selected on the HR10-250? And do you now? Most set don't have a decoder. SD vs. HD doesn't mean anything to the audio, but if you select dolby digital and your set doesn't have a decoder -- no sound. More than one thread on this over in the Tivo Community HDTV Tivo Powered PVRs (http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/forumdisplay.php?f=36) Forum.

s2silber

12-15-05, 10:32 AM

Denon, like Yamaha, are multi million dollar companies that have a lot of R&D resources. You bet they're going to test their products -- moreso than these other cable boxes manufacturers.
Maybe so, but a senior STB engineering contact at one of the major satellite TV providers told me that while many other consumer product companies had provided their receivers to them for testing to ensure proper interoperability, Denon had not. It may be worth finding out whether Denon has now done so.

ethw

12-15-05, 01:34 PM

Just wanted to report in on my recent purchase/setup. I havent done the AutoEQ yet but I have the following so far:

DirecTV HD-Tivo to 3806 (HDMI-HDMI and optical for sound)
Old Sony DVD Player to 3806 (component and coax for sound)
3806 to Mitsubishi 52725 DLP (HDMI-HDMI only)

I have video on the TV and can switch between DVD and DirecTV (SD and HD). I guess the only problem I have is with sound: no sound on DirecTV with only HDMI, hence my optical connection. I also cannot get anything but just regular stereo on DVD. I'll dig up my Sony manual to see if I'm missing something tonight. Anyone knows why?

I will also hook up my PS2 via component and perform the AutoEQ tonight and report back.

My follow up report: DVD now has full audio (I just didnt set up my DVD properly previously). Performed AutoEQ last night and everything looks great and the sound was awesome, although 3806 set everything to large (I have 6.5 inch in ceilings). Anyone knows if I manually change all speakers to small, do I lose all the other automatic calibrations? Also, hooked up my PS2 via component but can only get a funky picture.

s2silber

12-15-05, 02:06 PM

My surround speakers, along with all the others, were also set to "Large" during the AutoEQ. You can go into the speaker settings and change them to "Small" if you like. Not only that, but you can choose the crossover point within the "Small" setting, e.g., 40-60-80, etc. You will not lose any other EQ settings unless you change them manually.

jimed1

12-15-05, 03:37 PM

that's right, only HDMI cable from Tivo and got audio (SD & HD) on the TV before.
The HD Tivo will not output audio over HDMI and optical at the same time. You have to choose between 2-channel over HDMI, or DD over optical in the menu. You can't have both simultaneously.

marlonm

12-15-05, 11:44 PM

Greg,
Thanks so much for your response. Quick question -- if my set-top box does not work with HDMI and I need to use the DVI or TOS port (what is this?) into the 3806 and then the HDMI from the 3806 to the TV, does the signal quality improve because of the HDMI? If so how? In the world of computers that I work in, you can't improve resolution if you start low and want to go higher except through simulated interpolation. Can you explain?
Thanks,
Marlon
First, DVI does not carry audio. A DVI video signal can be fed into an HDMI device with a cable adaptor. But that does not provide the audio signals. So you will need to connect audio cables from your STB to your 3806. This could be either Coax or TOS. Lacking that, you will have to use the Stereo outputs on the STB.

Second, many cable STB do not play correctly with HDMI switching devices. If that is the case with your STB, you will need to use the component video feeds from the STB to the 3806. You can still use the HDMI cable from the 3806 to the TV, but will need to enable video conversion for the HDMI on the 3806. Also, you need to go through the 3806 setup screens and assign the various inputs. Assign the coax/TOS port you plug the STB into to the TV/DBS input. Also assign the component input you use to TV/DBS. It should then switch to the TV correctly.

Greg

BodegaBay

12-16-05, 12:03 AM

...if my set-top box does not work with HDMI and I need to use the DVI or TOS port (what is this?) into the 3806 and then the HDMI from the 3806 to the TV, does the signal quality improve because of the HDMI? If so how? In the world of computers that I work in, you can't improve resolution if you start low and want to go higher except through simulated interpolation. Can you explain?

TOS = Toslink or Optical Digital Output (it's the fiber optic cable that carries digital audio from the STB, DVD, or any other digital electronic equipment to your Receiver or Processor. The processory then deciphers those compressed signal to the amplifier which in turns sends multi-channel sounds to your speakers.

STB (via DVI-HDMI cable) ==> 3806 (via HDMI-HDMI cable) == TV is good because the video signal stays within the digital domain. It won't improve per se, but it certainly will not degrade because it does not have to go through a Digital to Analog conversion (if you were to use component cables from your STB).

Here's a good site (http://hometheater.about.com/od/hometheaterbasicsfaq/a/hometheaterfaq.htm) to read about the basic of Home Theater.

gfbuchanan

12-16-05, 03:24 PM

Marlon, I think BodegaBay answered your question. HDMI and DVI are really the same digital video signal. The difference is in the plug used, and that HDMI can carry audio, and DVI cannot carry audio. Conversion from HDMI to DVI for video is just doing a "gender bender" type wiring conversion to get the correct connector and pin-out.

Converting from Component to HDMI (digital) in the 3806 should not improve your picture. Any time you go through a conversion (digital/analog or analog/analog), you will lose some quality. How much you lose depends on what the conversion is, how many times you do the conversion and how good the converting equipment is.

Since the source at your set-top-box (STB) is digital, the best picture quality is to stay in the digital domain all the way from the source to your display. But many people report they see little, if any, difference between component and HDMI. I think the amount of difference you see is proportional to the $$$ you spent to get the all digital path (have to justify those $$$ somehow. ;) )

If you can get the video signal to work with DVI/HDMI from the STB, by all means use it. Even if you have to use a digital connection, coax or optical (TOS-link), for the sound. If your STB is like many and will not pass HDMI video through a switching receiver, then you should compare your picture quality with the STB connected directly to the TV via HDMI, with the quality of the component video switched through the 3806. Then you can decide if you see enough difference to forego the convenience of using the 3806 as your video switch.

Greg

Greg,
Thanks so much for your response. Quick question -- if my set-top box does not work with HDMI and I need to use the DVI or TOS port (what is this?) into the 3806 and then the HDMI from the 3806 to the TV, does the signal quality improve because of the HDMI? If so how? In the world of computers that I work in, you can't improve resolution if you start low and want to go higher except through simulated interpolation. Can you explain?
Thanks,
Marlon

kgturner

12-16-05, 08:27 PM

i just received my 3806 in the mail today. i previously had a 3805 so i have a pretty good idea of how to set it up. i've hooked up my denon 5900 via a monoprice dvi-hdmi cable. audio is handled via denon link 3. i hooked up my htpc via another monoprice dvi-hdmi cable (video card is an ati 9600pro with catalyst 5.6 drivers). audio is a lowly miniplug-rca cable. i've gone through the menu and assigned each hdmi input to the appropriate component (5900 is hdmi 1 / htpc is hdmi 2). however, i cannot get any video from my htpc. i've tried swapping cables and swapping inputs. no picture at all. i don't get any type of hdcp warning message. i can connected the htpc directly to my projector without issue.

so here's the rub. is my video card incompatible with the hdmi switching? who here has an htpc connected dvi-hdmi to the 3806 and is able to get picture? what video card are you successfully using? i was thinking of upgrading my video card to an nvidia anyways so this would be a perfect excuse to give the misses. but i'd like to be certain it's not some other issue first. i guess i'll play with it some more after i'm done primering the wall tonight. i'd appreciate any input you guys can provide. especially successful video card suggestions.

kevin t

marlonm

12-17-05, 07:09 AM

Greg,
Thanks for the explanation!!
Marlon, I think BodegaBay answered your question. HDMI and DVI are really the same digital video signal. The difference is in the plug used, and that HDMI can carry audio, and DVI cannot carry audio. Conversion from HDMI to DVI for video is just doing a "gender bender" type wiring conversion to get the correct connector and pin-out.

Converting from Component to HDMI (digital) in the 3806 should not improve your picture. Any time you go through a conversion (digital/analog or analog/analog), you will lose some quality. How much you lose depends on what the conversion is, how many times you do the conversion and how good the converting equipment is.

Since the source at your set-top-box (STB) is digital, the best picture quality is to stay in the digital domain all the way from the source to your display. But many people report they see little, if any, difference between component and HDMI. I think the amount of difference you see is proportional to the $$$ you spent to get the all digital path (have to justify those $$$ somehow. ;) )

If you can get the video signal to work with DVI/HDMI from the STB, by all means use it. Even if you have to use a digital connection, coax or optical (TOS-link), for the sound. If your STB is like many and will not pass HDMI video through a switching receiver, then you should compare your picture quality with the STB connected directly to the TV via HDMI, with the quality of the component video switched through the 3806. Then you can decide if you see enough difference to forego the convenience of using the 3806 as your video switch.

Greg

marlonm

12-17-05, 09:40 AM

I need a little bit more help. I have most everything working but dvd audio with my setup; 3806 with LG LDX-514 DVD player and Vizio Plasma. The TV works through HDMI out from the 3806. I connected the DVD to the receiver via HDMI cable and the picture is fine but I get no sound. The Tuner and TV generate sound through the speakers without a problem. I connected the DVD to the TV directly via HDMI cable and sound and picture work fine so the player is generating sound and picture through the HDMI interface. However it will not switch sound through the receiver. I have told the 3806 that DVD input was through HDMI1 and have played with most other setting but I cannot figure this one out. Any ideas or thoughts are welcome. Thanks, Marlon

mooneydriver

12-17-05, 11:53 AM

Hmmm ... don't rule out the possibility of a bad HDMI cable. If you have another one, swap them and see what happens.

gfbuchanan

12-17-05, 02:21 PM

Marlonm.

Is your problem no sound from the 3806 or from the TV speakers? Check the 3806 to see if it is configured to pass the HDMI audio to the TV or keep it at the 3806. This could be the problem.

Greg

Kshah

12-17-05, 02:58 PM

I have a Denon 3806 and a motorola 6412 cable box which I am trying to connect to my Plasma via HDMI. I put all the inputs to the receiver with one HDMI out to my TV and I could not get a picture from my cable box. I read there are compatibility problems with the 6412 HDMI. I also read that I should connect the cable box with component cables. Is it possible to connect the cable box to the receiver with components and then have a HDMI cable go to the TV. I tried this solution and still was not able to get a picture. I messed with the receiver setting to convert the signal, but I still got nowhere. I have a denon DVD player also connected to the receiver with the HDMI which works fine. Please help!!

kgturner

12-17-05, 03:10 PM

Johnla

12-17-05, 03:22 PM

Kshah

12-17-05, 05:22 PM

That cable box needs to have a firmware revision of at least 12.22, for it's HDMI output to work properly. Anything prior to a FW of 12.22 has some issues.

How do I know what firmware I have on my box. And is it possible to upgrade my firmware. The box I have is given to me by my cable company.

One other note....when I connect my TV directly to the cable box via HDMI, it works fine. The troubel is when I route the box through my 3806 receiver with HDMI. Thanks for the help.

kgturner

12-17-05, 07:25 PM

nevermind. my htpc screen resolution was set too low apparently.

Malik1

12-17-05, 09:48 PM

It's not a "sorry ass excuse." They are correct in that the technology is still new. The HDMI spec is still changing to meet high definition and high resolution needs at time progresses. Denon, AFAIK, is following the HDMI 1.1 spec to the letter and is implementing it correctly. As other veteran members here have alluded to, it's the other component manufacturers (namely OEMs for cable boxes and certain DVD player mfgs.) that do not get it right. If you decide to return this unit for the Yamaha, you'll more likely encounter the same problem.

Denon, like Yamaha, are multi million dollar companies that have a lot of R&D resources. You bet they're going to test their products -- moreso than these other cable boxes manufacturers.
Why I think Denon's excuse is bogus is my complementary sat receiver works flawlessly with the HDMI input on the 3806 and my TV. I can't say the same for my receiver or the dvd player I own (Denon's 2910). I had a $200 Samsung DVD player that I had zero problems with when it came to HDMI. I consider myself "stepping up" by purchasing a 3806 and 2910 and "now" I have problems. I expect a much higher standard of excellence and quality from Denon than I would from a cheap Samsung dvd player or some no name sat receiver. Now if Denon were following a technology to the letter as you said then two Denon products should operate seamless together. Right?...Wrong!!! Let me use an other example. Let's say you bought a BMW to upgrade from your functional but plain Toyota. You bought the BMW because it's quality and performance and it had a new technology in it's breaking system. That new breaking system failed and caused you to get into an accident. My question is, would you accept the excuse "the technology is new" or would you expect a multi-billion dollar corporation with a reputation for excellence to have done their R&D prior to releasing this technology to the public. I realize this is an extreme but possible example but the concept remains the same. What would you expect? Everyone on this forum has or desires mid to high end systems if we did not have expectations we'd buy Sparkomatic and not B&W.

eloser

12-17-05, 09:54 PM

Has anyone experienced problems connecting an upconverting DVD player (Oppo, Samsung, Toshiba) to this receiver? Are there any "HDCP" or "Handshaking" issues? I would be outputting at 1080i to a 1080P Toshiba TV. I'm considering this receiver and the 3805 and utilizing the HDMI Switching with the upconverting DVD player and an SA-8300HD DVR... Otherwise, I think I would go with the 3805 and switch the video using the TV's HDMI inputs.

spinee

12-17-05, 11:08 PM

Has anyone experienced problems connecting an upconverting DVD player (Oppo, Samsung, Toshiba) to this receiver?
currently using it with the oppo player @ 720p with no problems. all my other sources are analog, and everything is sent on to the tv via HDMI.

Nathan_R

12-18-05, 01:46 AM

That cable box needs to have a firmware revision of at least 12.22, for it's HDMI output to work properly. Anything prior to a FW of 12.22 has some issues.

Holy crap, so 12.22 on the 6412 fixes the handshake issue through the 3806 to the display? Yay-- time to fire off another email to Comcast Atlanta!

leadercrat

12-18-05, 09:03 AM

Hey Team,

I'm a club member and don't try to bug too much for advice and counsel on things. But I need some assistance on where to go for a multi channel amplifier $500 - $700 (if it exist?). It wasn't real clear on the best place to post, but I thought this owner's thread might have folks that have gone done this path, so I tried here first... I do have a preference for integration and will occaisionally compromise some incremental quality to get seamless integration. See my set up in my signature. Denon doesn't appear to offer what I need, it looks like the PMA-2000 IVR is the only choice, and it is 2 channel and TOO expensive. Can you point me in the right direction in terms of products, keeping mind my goals of integration and price range. Any counsel would be appreciation. Thanks so much of your time.

Leadercrat

Johnla

12-18-05, 12:26 PM

How do I know what firmware I have on my box. And is it possible to upgrade my firmware. The box I have is given to me by my cable company.

You can't do it yourself, the cable company must do it. I can say if they just send it down through the cable to the box, or if they must have the box updated by some other way, like by a service tech. As for will it fix all of your problems? I have no way to say that it will or will not. But the firmware 12.22 did fix a lot of problems with audio issues via the output through the HDMI port, so I would imagine it fixed some other problems also.

Freakinflyin

12-18-05, 03:04 PM

Hi All...

Can anyone tell me if the 3806 will run...

Paradigm,

Studio 100's
ADP470's
CC570
Seismic 12

or will I need to piggy back a power amp...?

Thanks for any help!

alex1971

12-18-05, 03:33 PM

is my video card (ati 9600pro with catalyst 5.6 drivers) incompatible with the hdmi switching? who here has an htpc connected dvi-hdmi to the 3806 and is able to get picture? what video card are you successfully using?

kevin t

Should be no Problem !
I use a ATI 9500Pro and its DVI-Output. (IIyama 19" CRT at VGA)
From DVI with DVI-Cable to AVR-3806 (DVI-HDMI-Adapter).

The catalyst (5.12) reports AVR-3806 as a DVI Monitor. I can choose 1280x720 50Hz.

It runs perfect. PC > AVR-3806 > Sanyo PLV-Z3 Beamer ! (The Beamer reports "720p")

eloser

12-18-05, 09:14 PM

I know there isn't any 1080P material out there yet, but will the 3806 with its current HDMI version be able to repeat/switch 1080P material?

wuttuptae

12-18-05, 09:51 PM

Hi All...

Can anyone tell me if the 3806 will run...

Paradigm,

Studio 100's
ADP470's
CC570
Seismic 12

or will I need to piggy back a power amp...?

Thanks for any help!

I'm currently running the AVR-3806 with Studio 100's, CC-470, and ADP-370's (will be changing them to 470's shortly). Since the Seismic 12 is powered, you're fine there, too. No complaints in 5.1 home theater, but I'm a little disappointed in musicality.

alex1971

12-19-05, 03:02 AM

I know there isn't any 1080P material out there yet, but will the 3806 with its current HDMI version be able to repeat/switch 1080P material?

Yes !
Look here:
http://www.denon.de/site/frames_main.php?main=prod&ver=&MID=3&sub=1&action=detail&Pid=238

2 HDMI-Eingänge bis 1080p-Auflösung
sowie HDMI-Ausgang,

BodegaBay

12-19-05, 03:25 AM

Why I think Denon's excuse is bogus is my complementary sat receiver works flawlessly with the HDMI input on the 3806 and my TV. I can't say the same for my receiver or the dvd player I own (Denon's 2910)....Now if Denon were following a technology to the letter as you said then two Denon products should operate seamless together...

...That new breaking system failed and caused you to get into an accident. My question is, would you accept the excuse "the technology is new" or would you expect a multi-billion dollar corporation with a reputation for excellence to have done their R&D prior to releasing this technology to the public...I realize this is an extreme but possible example but the concept remains the same.

Oh you're right -- it is an extreme example and is not analogous to the discussion at hand. I appreciate you trying, but that's reaching. My M3's brakes do just fine.

Read the problems with the spec here from the HDMI Org's President (http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/forum/showthread.php?p=20930#post20930) and here from Secrets Home Theater forum (http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/forum/showthread.php?p=20160#post20160).

Bottom line, you bought the unit at Crutchfield. If you feel the Denon 3806 is an inferior product or that the "sorry ass excuse" from the Denon engineer is representative of their product, then return the unit. Go buy the Yamaha 2600 and post in that thread.

sgotlieb

12-19-05, 08:59 AM

That cable box needs to have a firmware revision of at least 12.22, for it's HDMI output to work properly. Anything prior to a FW of 12.22 has some issues.

I have the SA 8300HD STB provided by Adelphia, and as reported earlier in this forum it does not work via hdmi to the 3806 (I do get audio from it, but no video). Does anyone know of a firmware upgrade for the SciAtlanta 8300HD that will fix this issue?

Currently I have all my inputs going through component to the 3806 and out to my Samsung HLN567W via HDMI/DVI cable. It looks good, but I would like to take advantage of the STBs hdmi port and the monster priced cable I purchased :o .

Thank you!

Malik1

12-19-05, 12:23 PM

Oh you're right -- it is an extreme example and is not analogous to the discussion at hand. I appreciate you trying, but that's reaching. My M3's brakes do just fine.

Read the problems with the spec here from the HDMI Org's President (http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/forum/showthread.php?p=20930#post20930) and here from Secrets Home Theater forum (http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/forum/showthread.php?p=20160#post20160).

Bottom line, you bought the unit at Crutchfield. If you feel the Denon 3806 is an inferior product or that the "sorry ass excuse" from the Denon engineer is representative of their product, then return the unit. Go buy the Yamaha 2600 and post in that thread.
OK Boss now you're catching an attitude and that is not what this is about. You are taking this personal. You're so hung up on me saying "sorry ass excuse". That being said, can you honestly believe that rushing any technology at the customer's expense is right? That was the point of the example and it was meant to be extreme. Also, I guess you missed the part when I said I love my set up when all is well. Yes I am irritated with the situation but I never said Denon over all was substandard. I think they messed up with these pieces. The tech at Crutchfield said I was not the only one experiencing this.

I would like my system "as is" to operate correctly consistently. That's all I'm asking.

Bottom line: consumers pay for 100% of a product and should receive 100%. Regardless of who is the manufacturer may be.

datamage

12-19-05, 12:55 PM

Tom Grooms

12-19-05, 01:55 PM

Quick question,

Is the 3806 supposed to remember settings bases on input or decoding type? For example, mine remembers settings for DD/Stereo/EXT IN/etc but not on a per-input basis. If I change SW levels for VCR1, it affects VCR2/DVD, etc. Is this right?

- D.Yup, set it up correctly and if its coming in from the source, it will play it. There is no need to have different SW levels for different sources. Set it and forget it!

tsax6010

12-19-05, 02:06 PM

There is no need to have different SW levels for different sources. Set it and forget it!

There are very good reasons to have different SW levels defined. I do not like a lot of bass when listening to music in my hardwood floor room, but I want more punch during movies, etc.

My brother-in-law is able to set SW levels for different inputs on his Denon AVR-1906 using the "personal memory plus" feature, but I cannot find this same function on the 3806.

Would love an answer to this question as well...

rolltide362

12-19-05, 04:27 PM

Seem to be having trouble converting my video.

I want to be able to watch 3 TV's off of this receiver.

SAT -->going in via HDMI
DVD --> going in via Component

TV1 --> HDMI Monitor Out
TV --> Component Monitor Out
S --> S-Video Monitor Out

This should work right? The HDMI Out works fine but if I am watching an HDMI Source feed it only works on TV1. If I fire up my DVD Player, I can watch on the TV1 & TV2, I guess because the DVD Player is going to the receiver via a Component set.

So it looks as if the unit is not down converting. How do I tell it to do so. I have also tried to run the video feeds thru the Zon2 and have not had much luck either. Tried the manuel, but give me a break.

Any help would be appreciated!

Ryan

datamage

12-19-05, 05:10 PM

There are very good reasons to have different SW levels defined. I do not like a lot of bass when listening to music in my hardwood floor room, but I want more punch during movies, etc.

My brother-in-law is able to set SW levels for different inputs on his Denon AVR-1906 using the "personal memory plus" feature, but I cannot find this same function on the 3806.

Would love an answer to this question as well...

Precisely. Since movie tracks send the info for the LFE channel, I don't have a problem with the sub on that. But let's say I play my PS2, I like to boost up the SW level a bit to get more punch. I have a fairly decent compromise now so I don't have to adjust SW levels at all times, but I'd love to know if it can be set on a per-input basis. Thanks.

- D.

mddoran

12-19-05, 05:34 PM

Just completed the installation of my 3806 the manual is less than helpful I have elected to not use the video HDMI switching going from components directly to TV and using optical to connect audio to the receiver. Can not use Denon HDMI output as no more inputs avail on TV, want to use s-video. Mark

spinee

12-19-05, 05:50 PM

Seem to be having trouble converting my video.

I want to be able to watch 3 TV's off of this receiver.

SAT -->going in via HDMI

TV1 --> HDMI Monitor Out
TV --> Component Monitor Out
S --> S-Video Monitor Out

This should work right? The HDMI Out works fine but if I am watching an HDMI Source feed it only works on TV1. If I fire up my DVD Player, I can watch on the TV1 & TV2, I guess because the DVD Player is going to the receiver via a Component set.
it doesn't downconvert from an HDMI to any other signal. page 15 of the manual shows HDMI only goes to HDMI, while everything else will upconvert to HDMI. pretty sure that's true of ALL their receivers (as well as anyone else's), to prevent piracy through the "analog loophole".

rolltide362

12-19-05, 07:30 PM

Wow you are right, didnt see that page as I have been focused on the Zone 2/3 pages. Thanks

sgotlieb

12-19-05, 07:42 PM

How do you get on screen display of the volume control?

I am not getting on screen display of the volume change from the 3806. It is connected to my TV via HDMI, all of my inputs are connected via Component and upconverting. I have Master Volume display turned on, but it is not showing on the TV. Any ideas? I was really looking forward to this feature as my old JVC didn't have it.

Thanks!

rolltide362

12-19-05, 09:30 PM

gfbuchanan

12-19-05, 10:20 PM

The owners manual discusses this. You select the audio source first. Then you select the video source. There may be a "trick" you have to select to only change the video. Check the manual.

Greg

OK, so far you guys are 3 for 3.

Can I watch TV in the main room via HDMI and listen to a different audio source. When we have a party, I want to have music on and a kick butt HDTV video signal coming in.

I have notived when I select a different source I can get the DVD (Component) to come up. So this may be an HDMI issue.

Thanks again for answering my novice questions.

RC

CADCONV

12-19-05, 10:25 PM

In order for me to get the different audio / video source on the other receivers I've used I've had to select the picture (video) first and then select an audio source that didn't have a picture (video) signal assigned to it. Otherwords, I couldn't display a video image from a single disc DVD player and play a CD from a DVD/CD changer that was also setup to play DVD's as well.

sgotlieb

12-19-05, 10:31 PM

OK, so far you guys are 3 for 3.

Can I watch TV in the main room via HDMI and listen to a different audio source. When we have a party, I want to have music on and a kick butt HDTV video signal coming in.

I have notived when I select a different source I can get the DVD (Component) to come up. So this may be an HDMI issue.

Thanks again for answering my novice questions.

RC

It looks like page 28 of the manual covers this. It looks like you would select the audio source first, then use the Video Select button to change the video. Unfortunately, it states that "It is not possible to select HDMI input signals". I do not have an HDMI input connected to test this out.

italia101

12-19-05, 10:55 PM

mooneydriver

12-20-05, 12:07 AM

I just set up my 3806 tonight as well as new speakers. I connected an HDMI cable from the Denon 765 to the 3806. I could not get any sound. I then connected RCA cables and got sound. What am I doing wrong. The manual is helpless. Thanks.
Under audio setup, you should select "HDMI" (1 or 2) as the input source, and then setup the HDMI output to "AMP". That might do the trick.

libracolo

12-20-05, 08:52 AM

s2silber

12-20-05, 09:18 AM

There's a chance that the HDMI input/outputs on the '3806 may not work with the STB, but you should still try, making sure that all the audio and video assignments are done properly in the menu. If not, and he wants to be able to run just one line into the TV and do all the switching with the receiver, run component from the STB into the 3806 and run HDMI out to the TV.

flstc98

12-20-05, 09:37 PM

I'm unable to get the 3806 OSD on my Samsung HL-P4663W DLP?

The DLP is only one year old and has an HDMI input. I'm connected from the 3806 to the DLP via HDMI. Went through the setup using the display on the 3806 and everything seems to be working fine. Great sound and picture but no OSD. All I get on the DLP when I go into Set Up is "Not Supported Mode"

The OSD option in Video Set up is set to "on".

I have read some posts regarding the OSD being in 480i? Maybe it will never work with my DLP but thought if anybody could help it would be here.

The specs for my DLP are as follows:

Samsung DLP TV
DNIe (Digital Natural Image Engine)
1080i and 720p HDTV, 480p and 480i compatibility
1280 x 720p digital conversion of all video inputs
Digital Video Interface (DVI) and HDMI equipped
Progressive Scan DVD component video input
2 sets HDTV component video inputs
Translucent on-screen display (OSD) system

Is there a problem with getting the 3806 OSD to show up on this DLP that somebody knows of? Not sure if it matters or not but I'm on D*TV and using the HR10-250 HD TIVO. The connection from the HR10-250 to the 3806 is HDMI also.

Any suggestions or solutions much appreciated. I'm a newbie to the AV world so go easy on me.

DaveN

12-20-05, 09:48 PM

If the 3806 is only driving 4 speakers can channels be bridged?

tsax6010

12-20-05, 10:01 PM

mooneydriver

12-21-05, 12:06 AM

First I apologize if any of my questions seem stupid or redundant (I saw some potentially same posts earlier). I am helping the CEO of my company set up his new system. He has the 3806 that he is using with the new Mits 73" 1080P DLP and the Phase III Moto DCT6412. He wants to be able to run everything via HDMI ( he has 2 HDMI inputs on the TV, 1 HDMI output on the cable box, and the remaining on the 3806). I saw an earlier post that said the 3806 was having problems with the 6412 (DVI->HDMI), however he has the Phase III box which is HDMI, not DVI. Does this apply then? Has anyone been able to run the setup with just HDMI, and if so, could you share some info with me? This is my first exposure to the 3806, and to say the documentation is less than stellar is an understatement. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
There's a message earlier on this page that says Phase III 6412s with firmware 12.22 and above should work properly with the 3806 HDMI switching. I have a Phase II with firmware in the 9.xx level, so I am not able to confirm this. You should give it a try, as s2silber says.

The firmware version can be found on the settings/diagnostics menu of the 6412 (check dvr chatter dot com for details).

sgotlieb

12-21-05, 08:10 AM

libracolo

12-21-05, 08:36 AM

Thanks to both S2Silber and Mooneydriver for the info. I left a message for one of the senior techs at Comcast yesterday to find out what firmware version the boxes have (since the CSR's are completely clueless). Also, thanks for the link, I didn't know about that site, now subscribe to that one as well. I just moved to the Comcast area, used to be with TWC and the SA 8300HD's, which to me were alot more intuitive than the 6412's.

spinee

12-21-05, 10:29 AM

I am having the same problem as flstc98 with the OSD on my Samsung HLN567W. Any help is greatly apprecieated. I can't find a Tech support number in the 3806 manual to report the issue.

I am stuck with out OSD of the master volume and it is killing me since I sit 16 feet from the receiver. Please help.

i did a little experimentation this morning, and it appears that OSD doesn't work with any output but 480i. i hooked up my dvd player and tried it at 480p, 720p and 1080i with no luck, but switching to 480i works perfectly.

sorry, i couldn't test 720p via component, since my player only outputs 480i on the component out.

Denon_Kid

12-21-05, 11:37 AM

I just set up my 3806 tonight as well as new speakers. I connected an HDMI cable from the Denon 765 to the 3806. I could not get any sound. I then connected RCA cables and got sound. What am I doing wrong. The manual is helpless. Thanks.

Under audio setup, you should select "HDMI" (1 or 2) as the input source, and then setup the HDMI output to "AMP". That might do the trick.

just to add to this, if you 1st make HDMI video assignments the 3806 will auto-assign the digital audio assignments to match the video assignments.

Denon_Kid

12-21-05, 11:50 AM

here's the problem (and a gripe to follow):

i use a sci-atlanta hd cable box and i just got a denon dvd 1920 with my 3806. after getting my panasonic hdmi module to work ok in my 42phd plasma i was ready to hdmi tv and dvd to the 3806. my 1st attempt went ok, i made my video and audio assignments and the audio was working on both (hdmi audio assigned to "amp"). then after mucking around with some other 3806 settings i lost my tv audio. odd since the front display would show the recognized audio cooming from the tv hdmi cable source but no sound to the speakers. i then tested my dvd player and that was fine.

i then set hdmi audio to "tv" and both my tv and dvd audio can be heard just fine from the plasma's speakers. i then went back to hdmi audio set to "amp" and noticed something different about being on tv vs. dvd. when i switch to dvd i see panel recognize the audio then i hear a click (must be 3806 clamping the speakers to the amp), but when i choose tv i dont hear the same distinctive click.

thinking i may have goofed a setting somewhere i reset the 3806, did my hdmi video and audio assignments (the same way as i did the 1st time) but still same issue.

i did not yet try swapping the assignments. anyone have any ideas wtf is going on?

here's one gripe so far - hdmi audio passthrough is not really "passthrough", the audio has to be terminated either at tv or amp, one cannot have both at the same time.... thats crappy...

thanks.
DK

Denon_Kid

12-21-05, 12:49 PM

I know there isn't any 1080P material out there yet, but will the 3806 with its current HDMI version be able to repeat/switch 1080P material?

1st i've seen of a lcd supporting 1080p (well, there are others, but this was the 1st i saw), i wonder what Westinghouse is anticipating.... Westinghouse LVM-37w1

i dunno enough about the 3806 yet, but is this units firmware upgradeable, and is it done through the rs232 port?

tsax6010

12-21-05, 03:31 PM

1st i've seen of a lcd supporting 1080p (well, there are others, but this was the 1st i saw), i wonder what Westinghouse is anticipating.... Westinghouse LVM-37w1

i dunno enough about the 3806 yet, but is this units firmware upgradeable, and is it done through the rs232 port?

No upgrade needed. The 3806 allready supports it.

http://www.denon.co.uk/site/frames_main.php?main=prod&ver=&MID=3&sub=1&action=detail&Pid=238

Click on "More details" at the bottom of the product page.

As far as 1080p LCD tv's are concerned, Epson is comming out with 2 RP-LCD HD monitors in January called Epson CrystalPro HD. Both claim 1080p HDMI inputs.

http://epsonpresskit.mediaroom.com/file.php/225/Fact+Sheet+-+Epson+CrystalPro+HDTV+Monitors.pdf

Denon_Kid

12-21-05, 08:57 PM

can 3806 convert analog and digital audio inputs out to hdmi monitor (just do a simple a/d conversion) ??

jruphoff

12-22-05, 05:19 PM

I just got a Denon 3806 and tried hooking up my Denon dvd-755s Dvd player to it. The 755s has a DVI out and the 3806 uses HDMI so I have a conversion cable. I started the dvd player and it was playing. When I switched the receiver to DVD the dvd player froze. I could not do anything with it, not even turn it off. I had to pull the plug to get it back. This happens every time. Even if i leave the receiver in dvd mode the player freezes as soon as I turn it on. The Player is HDCP compliant so that is not an issue. I have called denon and they are sending me a firmware upgrade for the player but said they have not heard of this problem before. This is not just an image freeze. This is a full out player lock-up. This counter stops, the whole thing stops. Any ideas? thanks

jruphoff

12-22-05, 05:20 PM

And i hooked it up using component cables and it worked fine.

biffbyun

12-22-05, 08:41 PM

Maybe someone can help me. I have a simliar issue with a 3806 and a Denon DVD 1910. I have if connected through dvi to hdmi on the receiver I can get no signal to the projector. I have tried changing from 720p to 1080i and nothing at all. I have it working through 480p through component fine. Any suggestions?

gfbuchanan

12-22-05, 09:40 PM

First, test to see if the DVI -> HDMI conversion works if hooked directly to the TV. If not, then you need to check the DVD player setup to enable DVI output. If yes, make sure you have assigned the 3806 to use the correct HDMI port for input.

Greg

QUOTE=biffbyun]Maybe someone can help me. I have a simliar issue with a 3806 and a Denon DVD 1910. I have if connected through dvi to hdmi on the receiver I can get no signal to the projector. I have tried changing from 720p to 1080i and nothing at all. I have it working through 480p through component fine. Any suggestions?[/QUOTE]

biffbyun

12-22-05, 09:50 PM

Greg, thanks for the suggestion. I have tried hooking up to the projector by itself and it works flawlessly. I'm hoping someone that has experience with the 1910 and 3806 will chime in with some eureka resolution. I have assigned it to the HDMI1 input and set it up in the menu, but whatever I do, I just can't seem to get it to work. Please help!

First, test to see if the DVI -> HDMI conversion works if hooked directly to the TV. If not, then you need to check the DVD player setup to enable DVI output. If yes, make sure you have assigned the 3806 to use the correct HDMI port for input.

Greg

gfbuchanan

12-22-05, 10:32 PM

Denon_kid,

Sorry but no. See the second note after step 6 of "Setting the HDMI In Assign" on pages 66-67 of operating instructions, "Input signals input from the analog and digital terminals are not output to the TV." Not quite sure why you would want to do this anyway?

Greg

can 3806 convert analog and digital audio inputs out to hdmi monitor (just do a simple a/d conversion) ??

gfbuchanan

12-22-05, 10:53 PM

Did you happen to switch the Input mode to "EXT IN" or "Analog" on the DVD input? That will kill the sound.

Greg

here's the problem

....then after mucking around with some other 3806 settings i lost my tv audio.

DK

ezervoud

12-23-05, 04:40 AM

jruphoff

12-23-05, 09:15 AM

The 1910 is the same DVD player as the 755s only it is black. The problem i am having is that the player locks up when i switch the receiver to dvd. I have had it working strait to the tv with a DVI cable with no issue. It has to do with the receiver and the dvd player not playing nice.

sbrawn

12-23-05, 09:43 AM

Picked one up this aft at Tweeter. Still in the box and I'll probably set it up tomorrow night. I'll post my impressions when I have a chance to experiment.

If you have questions and don't have access to the operating instructions, I can check on anything that's in their documentation

I'm anxious to test Denon Link 3 with my DVD-3910 to compare audio to analog 5.1 sound.

I wish Denon would update their new site to include firmware updates. Their products are great, but their web site redesign in progressing at a snail's pace.

/George

I'm new to this forum, so please bear with me... I have just purchased and setup my 3806 receiver and 2910 DVD player, and I couldn't be happier! I am using Mirage Omni-directional speakers (8-Ohm), and the sounds are fantastic. We cranked up Trans-Siberian Orchestra's Christmas Eve-Sarajo, and there was no distortion, the house was vibrating, and the tones were crystal clear.

I'm using the DVI output from the DVD player into the TV monitor and using the Optical output for the audio. The upscaling of the DVDs to 1080 is superior to anything I have viewed previously on DVD. Last night I played my first DVD Audio disc (Rachmoninov), and it was like I had never heard that piano concerto before.

The only problem I have encountered isn't with the Denon equipment - it is with my cable company Cox Communications. I receive the HD cable, and when I tried to use the HDMI ports in the 3806, I receive a message from Cox stating that it is a violation of copyright protection and that the HDMI port on the Cox box has been disabled. I have spoken with 2 different tech support people at Cox who confirm this and say that there is no way to disable this "feature"!

Other than that, I love the 3806 and the 2910, and would recommend them highly! :p

Denon_Kid

12-23-05, 10:11 AM

The only problem I have encountered isn't with the Denon equipment - it is with my cable company Cox Communications. I receive the HD cable, and when I tried to use the HDMI ports in the 3806, I receive a message from Cox stating that it is a violation of copyright protection and that the HDMI port on the Cox box has been disabled. I have spoken with 2 different tech support people at Cox who confirm this and say that there is no way to disable this "feature"!
highly! :p

sounds to me like the cable box needs a firmware upgrade. the box did not successfully complete it's handshake with the 3806, so the cable box tries to protect the content by disabling it's own hdmi port....

the 3806 works with many other cable boxes with hdcp, so call Cox and tell them their box needs a upgrade and/or they have not implemented hdmi protocol correctly....

s2silber

12-23-05, 10:48 AM

I have run the Audyssey setup on my 3806 and I've noticed something weird. Whenever I choose either Audyssey, Front or Flat my front right (FR) speaker barely produces sound. If I switch to manual it works just fine. I checked the amplification levels and both FL and FR speakers are set to zero. Is there something that I have overlooked or missed?
I haven't experienced anything as dramatic with Audyssey as a speaker barely producing any sound, but I do find that I just don't like the sound in Audyssey mode as much as I do with the other settings, or turning Room EQ completely off. The imaging may be more "up front" from different positions in the room in Audyssey mode, but it just sounds sort of "squeezed," particularly when it comes to center channel dialogue. I've ended up listening mostly in either "Front" mode or completely off. I understand that the Audyssey settings can be tweaked to one's liking, but I'm not really patient or gifted enough to do that to my complete satisfaction.
Anyway, what you should do to see what's happening to your FR speaker when in Audyssey mode is go into the Audyseey "Parameter Settings" and see whether it's mapped out much different than in the other modes.
BTW, please send me a PM about where you ended up buying the Denon.

ezervoud

12-23-05, 12:41 PM

I haven't experienced anything as dramatic with Audyssey as a speaker barely producing any sound, but I do find that I just don't like the sound in Audyssey mode as much as I do with the other settings, or turning Room EQ completely off. The imaging may be more "up front" from different positions in the room in Audyssey mode, but it just sounds sort of "squeezed," particularly when it comes to center channel dialogue. I've ended up listening mostly in either "Front" mode or completely off. I understand that the Audyssey settings can be tweaked to one's liking, but I'm not really patient or gifted enough to do that to my complete satisfaction.
Anyway, what you should do to see what's happening to your FR speaker when in Audyssey mode is go into the Audyseey "Parameter Settings" and see whether it's mapped out much different than in the other modes.
BTW, please send me a PM about where you ended up buying the Denon.

s2silber, thanks for your reply! I have gone through the "Parameter Settings" but there is nothing alarming there. I just makes no sense :confused:

s2silber

12-23-05, 02:54 PM

ezervoud

12-23-05, 04:44 PM

By "Parameter" settings, I mean those bar charts for each speaker showing varying levels of sound frequencies from high to low. If that looks unremarkable, I would just start all over again with the mike and auto-set up run-through.
Yes, I know, you mean the equalization frequencies :)
I've had separate EQ units for about 20 yrs now but with this amp I decided that it was not needed and I didn't hook it up. It's a 12 year old Yamaha unit but it does have a graphic eq with a pink noise generator. You think it's worth giving it a try?
Tomorrow, I'll follow your advise and re-run the auto set-up. - Thanks

WillyJ

12-23-05, 09:26 PM

I just purchased the 3806 also and cannot get the HDMI input to sync up with either my Comcast HD DVR or my VOOM sat receiver. Using good quality cables no longer than 10 feet. The HDMI out to TV works fine. Reading these posts it looks like a common problem and not isolated to the Denon. It seems the signal is very fickle anyway and adding the Denon in between the Comcast and TV is the source of the problem as they will work fine directly linked. Many of you have asked why not wire direct? Well, the Denon will convert EVERY signal to the HDMI out including the OS menu which is a very handy thing as you don't have to remember to switch from one input to another on the receiver and the TV to view alternate feeds and signals. It is a major aggravation to have to switch both the receiver and the TV just to view the on screen menu while making a change to the receiver setup.

As an aside, I agree with the others that the sound of the Denon is excellent. Much better than my existing receiver. Yes, the manual is ambiguous but thorough. Their technical support by phone, fax or email is non-existent but thankfully you probably won't need it. Marantz is a part of Denon and here again, great sound and engineering but very little in the way of support and documentation. Another caveat: You may have to purchase a remote control from an older Denon if you want to control the front panel display dimmer feature with a remote control rather than the front of the unit. Denon decided to leave this dimmer button off the newer remote controls. Go figure that one out!

If anyone can figure out how to get the HDMI input to work with a DVI signal, I would appreciate a post to the solution.

Denon_Kid

12-23-05, 11:21 PM

Denon_Kid

12-24-05, 11:06 AM

libracolo

12-24-05, 12:33 PM

For those of you using the 6412 Phase III box (with HDMI outputs), I spoke with someone fairly technical at Comcast yesterday and I have the reason why you "cannot" run HDMI from the 6412 to the 3806 and to your tv. If you are running version 12.18 of Firmware for the 6412, there is a known issue with the HDCP (it is active but there is a bug). Until they upgrade to version 12.22 the bug will not be fixed. My local Comcast office said they were not planning to upgrade until 1Q06 because they would need to take the boxes down 6 hrs for the upgrade. However (and I haven't tried this yet, so can't speak to the truthfulness) he said that if you run the cable to the Denon and then to the tv, and add a pr of RCA cables from the cable to the Denon it "goes around the bug". I didn't like that idea because then I thought I would be limiting my audio, but he said it will read the audio from HDMI first, and basically ignore the RCA jacks. I figure it's worth a try anyway. Good luck getting your cable company to upgrade the firmware anytime sooner than their schedule.

Dewa

12-25-05, 05:38 AM

gday, i have just splashed the cash on a Denon 3806 & was really looking forward to plugging my Panasonic AE700 projector into it via the HDMI cable. But Low & Behold it does not configure. I have had the HDMI cable going into the projector directly from a DVI output of a digital TV box for quite some time & it worked well. The Amp sends picture to the projector via component without a hitch
I have all the relevent conversions & outputs for video swithced on in the 3806 set up menu, but no matter how many times i try and reset power on & off it wont seem to give me anything out of the AMP via HDMI.
I am almost ready to pack it up and take it back as this was the only reason i upgraded from a Yamaha RXV 2500.
Mind you the remote is a lot easier to navigate and the 2nd zone function works well.

merry xmess

fleabowitz

12-25-05, 07:27 AM

I just bought the 3806 an issue with my LGDVB418 DVD player which does 1080i upcoversion via HDMI. I send the HDMI from the DVD player out the the 3086. Every time i power off the DVD player and power on, then switch the DVD imput, the TV displays snow, then after a few seconds it recognizes the DVD source. The problem is that for some reason the DVD player is losing the resolution setting and only outputting 480i and the picture has a purple huge. I then have the manually change the resolution on the DVD player back to 1080i, then the TV display goes black, comes back with the proper settings. Also, i cannot get the audio to work through the HMDI cable. I have to use a coax digital cable for sound. Anyone have any advise?

Denon_Kid

12-25-05, 10:54 AM

sgotlieb

12-25-05, 10:54 AM

just a update. the audio issue i was having from SA 8300HD hdmi to avr3806 went away. i unplugged the power from 8300HD, plug it in and the unit reboots. voila, now i have audio via hdmi to 3806.

so, when in doubt try rebooting the cable box...

DK

Denon_Kid,

I have the same STB, but I can't get video to work through the HDMI. Are you saying that you are getting both audio and video from the HDMI connection between the SA8300HD and the 3806?

I am going to give the reboot a try right now.

Denon_Kid

12-25-05, 10:59 AM

Denon_Kid

12-25-05, 11:05 AM

Denon_Kid,

I have the same STB, but I can't get video to work through the HDMI. Are you saying that you are getting both audio and video from the HDMI connection between the SA8300HD and the 3806?

I am going to give the reboot a try right now.

yes, i have both video and audio woking fine from SA8300HD to 3806, no issues.

also, make sure you initialize the STB:

1. make sure the 3806 hdmi assignments are correct
2. turn on 3806 and select the correct input
3. turn off the STB
4. press the "guide" and "info" buttons on front of STB
5. follow the onscreen setup (use advanced option).
6. power on STB, and in the settings make sure your video is set to "auto hdmi/dvi".
7. make sure STB audio setting is set to "hdmi"

also make sure your tv is tuned to the hdmi input....

fleabowitz

12-25-05, 06:11 PM

My audio termination is set to AMP. Is that correct?

Dewa

12-25-05, 06:53 PM

you dont need to set any conversions on the 3806 if you are using only hdmi/DVI video sources.

if you do pack it up and get something else, get a pioneer elite...

Probably wasn't clear enough in my 1st posting, anyway. The DVD is component out to the AR. But not sending signal HDMI from the AR to the projector.
I was of the idea that this 3806 would upconvert this signal to be sent from the AR to the projector via HDMI :confused:

ebarak

12-25-05, 08:34 PM

Post all questions & answers about setting up Denon 3806 here tweaking/inputs settings etc.

Hi,
Just received my Denon 3806 and lunar Denon 2910 ( I am waiting to the 3910).
However, I did not know how to connect the DVD player to the 3806 so I can listen to CDs.
The only cable I received with 2910 is the Audio Video cord (Yellow, Red and White cord…)
Can you please tell me how to connect it?
Thanks,
:(

s2silber

12-25-05, 09:03 PM

The best way of connecting the 3806 and 2910 is by HDMI for both audio and video; second best for audio would be coaxial/optical digital cable connection and component video cable. The very last thing you want do do is use the Yellow, Red and white cords that came in the box. :eek:

Denon_Kid

12-25-05, 09:24 PM

Probably wasn't clear enough in my 1st posting, anyway. The DVD is component out to the AR. But not sending signal HDMI from the AR to the projector.
I was of the idea that this 3806 would upconvert this signal to be sent from the AR to the projector via HDMI :confused:

what is the supported formats of your projector? do any of them match the displayed format you see from your 3806 "status" when you are on dvd input?

try setting "hdmi out" convert to on, and be sure the video convert for dvd is "on".

i may be mistaken, but from what i can tell the 3806 does not really "upconvert", rather it does a "conversion" from one type of input to the hdmi out. so, 480p in on component gets converted over to hdmi out, but still as 480p, etc.

Dewa

12-25-05, 10:06 PM

However, I did not know how to connect the DVD player to the 3806 so I can listen to CDs.
The only cable I received with 2910 is the Audio Video cord (Yellow, Red and White cord…)
Can you please tell me how to connect it?
Thanks,
:([/QUOTE]

There are a few cables that will let you listen to CD's

You only need to connect the DVD player and put your CD's in the DVD player. Play on the DVD will play your CD.
Now the connection you can use is either red & white from DVD output to 3806 DVD input.
For better sound transfer you can use and Optical connection or if you have another red/white/yellow cable
you could connect (choose just one of the 3) yellow to the COAX out of the DVD player & connect it to the COAX in on the 3806.
Then you will need to go to
audio input select>>>then digital input select >> go down to DVD and select COAX1 if this is the one you plug it into.

i hope this helps

Dewa

12-25-05, 11:06 PM

what is the supported formats of your projector? do any of them match the displayed format you see from your 3806 "status" when you are on dvd input?

try setting "hdmi out" convert to on, and be sure the video convert for dvd is "on".

i may be mistaken, but from what i can tell the 3806 does not really "upconvert", rather it does a "conversion" from one type of input to the hdmi out. so, 480p in on component gets converted over to hdmi out, but still as 480p, etc.

I understand the upconvert / conversion. I would like just one cable to simply transfer the data from the amp to the Projector.

HDMI out convert =ON Video convert for DVD =ON

Now where am i looking for "status" on the DVD input?
The DVD shows 'wide screen' on the display

The projector support lots of diff formats.
RGB. HDMI. VIDEO. PC(VGA)

It may not be the biggest problem as my DVD player is getting long in the tooth & near the end of its illustrious carreer.
Its just that i have no other equipment to test this with.

Dewa

12-25-05, 11:25 PM

DVD is set as RCA1 in Video inputs

Denon_Kid

12-26-05, 11:03 AM

I understand the upconvert / conversion. I would like just one cable to simply transfer the data from the amp to the Projector.

HDMI out convert =ON Video convert for DVD =ON

Now where am i looking for "status" on the DVD input?
The DVD shows 'wide screen' on the display

The projector support lots of diff formats.
RGB. HDMI. VIDEO. PC(VGA)

It may not be the biggest problem as my DVD player is getting long in the tooth & near the end of its illustrious carreer.
Its just that i have no other equipment to test this with.

the "status" button in under the front panel of the 3806. select dvd on the 3806, then use status button........

i mean what resolution formats are supported on the projector (1080i/p, 720i/p, 576i/p, 480i/p)??

ezervoud

12-26-05, 01:48 PM

Happy Holidays to all!!. I had an issue while calibrating with Audyssey for the first time my 3806, resulting in one of my front speakers sub-performing. As s2silber recommended, I re-run Audyssey and got totally different results? The differences started from Audyssey miscalculating this time the distances of the speakers. Secondly, I got plenty of differences, in comparison with the first run, in equalization settings as well as levels. To be honest I had swivel my back speakers by 45 degrees and measured a different 6th position. Fair I said, it might had to do with that. Without changing anything I run once again Audyssey and got a totally different set of results. Different distances, equalizations, levels, the whole nine yards. What's the case here? has it happen to anyone else?

spinee

12-26-05, 06:07 PM

Happy Holidays to all!!. I had an issue while calibrating with Audyssey for the first time my 3806, resulting in one of my front speakers sub-performing. As s2silber recommended, I re-run Audyssey and got totally different results?
.
.
.
What's the case here? has it happen to anyone else?
i ran twice as well, mainly because i feared what happened to you might have happened...i just didn't trust it to do everything and wanted to see if it gave me consistent results from run to run.

and it did...mostly. it correctly measured the distance to each speaker both times (we'd measured by hand before starting, and it was dead on). it correctly measured the size of each speaker, and the EQ curves were similar enough. the only difference was the xover frequency it measured for the surrounds: first time it selected 200KHz, second time 150.

i suspect it's very sensitive to ambient noise, so i did everything i could to quiet the place down: shut off the heat, hid myself around the corner in the hall while it was working (i didn't want sound reflecting off ME and messing up the measurements), even closing the door to the kitchen so it wouldn't mess up its little head if the fridge came on during measurement.

so put me down in the "it (probably) did a decent job" category. well, at least it did a consistent job.

Dewa

12-26-05, 06:28 PM

OK the status of my AR when it has been selected to DVD is as follows:
DVD
DOLBY PLII cinema

Dolby D:48khz
Format=2/0/0
Press the button again
Dial.Norm
Offset - 4dB
Press button again
DVD
D=OPT1

when i have a DVD playing & i press the status button...these are the results
OUTPUTMODE HDMI
HDMI MONI INFO
480p 1080i 720p 576p

Formats supported by the projector via HDMI are as follows:
525p (480p)
625p (576p)
1125 (1080)/60i
1125 (1080)/50i
750 (720)60p
750 (720)50p
VGA480

Dewa

12-26-05, 07:21 PM

Ok some kind of progress

i connected a digital TV reveiver with DVI out HDMI adaptor used to input HDMI to the Amp.

Yes i get a HDMI picture to the Projector.

This shows the HDMI out of the Amp is working, there is nothing wrong with the cable.
It still shows that the RGB to HDMI conversion for DVD is not working or set up correctly.

Denon_Kid

12-27-05, 05:49 AM

Dewa

12-27-05, 05:57 AM

it is set for RGB.
if i change it
nothing chandes in the output :mad:

jruphoff

12-27-05, 01:17 PM

ckelly33

12-27-05, 11:42 PM

I'm having a minor problem running 2 zones. I'm using my 3806 to run 5.1 in zone 1 and using my back surround speakers as my zone 2 speakers. I'm picking up my tuner (AM/FM/XM) sounds great but that's all I can hear in my second zone. Is there a trick to getting it to play other sources (CD, TV, etc.) in zone 2 via the back speakers?

While I'm asking questions. I read on a previous post that someone got their OSD to display via HDMI. The only way I've been able to get this done is via an S-Video cable. I have a Sharp LCD LC45GX-6U which displays an input error/incompatible signal when trying to display OSD via HDMI. Is this TV specific issue or am I doing something wrong with the 3806?

Dewa

12-28-05, 06:07 AM

I'm having a minor problem running 2 zones. I'm using my 3806 to run 5.1 in zone 1 and using my back surround speakers as my zone 2 speakers. I'm picking up my tuner (AM/FM/XM) sounds great but that's all I can hear in my second zone. Is there a trick to getting it to play other sources (CD, TV, etc.) in zone 2 via the back speakers?

I am having no problems getting CD to play zone 2 while listening to a DVD in the main zone.
just ensure you select the zone 2 output quickly or try choosing it 1st then turn zone 1 on.

Dewa

12-28-05, 06:11 AM

What is with the remote on the 3806 NOT having backlit buttons, sure the touch pad is illuminated by geezus blow me are denon trying to save a few bucks on a dozen LED globes.

ckelly33

12-28-05, 07:40 AM

Thanks Dewa. What's the deal with not being able to "freely" control Zone 2? It seems odd to me that a device like this would be so finiky about what order or how quickly you control the zones. Anyone out there know if Denon is planning to fix this and make it easier to work with zone 2?

jakenn2

12-28-05, 09:44 AM

I just bought a 3806, and, thanks in large part to the posts on this thread, got it up and running. I have everything running into the 3806 (Toshiba upconverting DVD player through HDMI, Comcast HD DVR through component, laserdisc through s-video, and Playstation 2 through component). Video output from the 3806 is through the HDMI output into the DVI input on my Mitsu WT-42313 CRT rear projection (via a Monoprice HDMI-DVI cable). Everything is fine except for the PS2, which has wavy and distorted video if it displays at all. I know that some TVs have a problem handling 480i over HDMI/DVI, but the laserdisc and OSD display just fine. If I connect the PS2 directly to the TV over the component outputs or if I watch a DVD on the PS2 (where the output is 480p), the signal displays properly. The PS2 is set to "Y Pb Pr" rather than "RGB" for the component outputs. (It doesn't display anything if I set it to RGB.)

I just ran all of the cables under the house, and I'd rather not run a component cable just for the PS2. I bought the Denon so that I could make it idiot-proof by running everything to the TV over one wire. :confused:

Does anyone have any ideas? Thanks in advance.

-Jack

sgotlieb

12-28-05, 01:46 PM

yes, i have both video and audio woking fine from SA8300HD to 3806, no issues.

also, make sure you initialize the STB:

1. make sure the 3806 hdmi assignments are correct
2. turn on 3806 and select the correct input
3. turn off the STB
4. press the "guide" and "info" buttons on front of STB
5. follow the onscreen setup (use advanced option).
6. power on STB, and in the settings make sure your video is set to "auto hdmi/dvi".
7. make sure STB audio setting is set to "hdmi"

also make sure your tv is tuned to the hdmi input....

Denon_Kid,

I followed the above steps (multiple times) and I do not get any audio or video via hdmi from the SA 8300HD to the 3806. I am curious, what firmware versions does your STB have? My SA 8300HD from Adelphia has:

PTV OS: OS, Home Server Edition 1.4
Flash: 1.87.23.1
App(s): ispguid v2.06, hgra v3.2.05

Perhaps Adelphia needs to upgrade the 8300HDs.

Digerati.

12-28-05, 01:55 PM

Perhaps Adelphia needs to upgrade the 8300HDs.

Most likely due to what Adelphia has chosen to support... there are very few markets in which the 8300HD HDMI switching works. Cablevision is apparently one of them... Adelphia? - maybe not...

WillyWonka

12-28-05, 02:25 PM

i think i've found a little bug in 3806's software....
if the dsp mode is set to a 2 ch dsp, no test sound is comig from the subwoofer in the speaker level setting menu.... all the other speakers yes, but the sub no.
can you confirm this ?

Dewa

12-28-05, 04:18 PM

i think i've found a little bug in 3806's software....

can you confirm this ?

Yes i think the 3806 is full of BUGS & incomplete issues, Its called rushing a product to the market before testing is complete.

Pity really.

ethw

12-28-05, 07:11 PM

Dewa

12-29-05, 07:26 AM

Jack, I have exactly the same problem with my PS2! Not sure if its the 480i via HDMI issue as I get regular SD programming just fine. Further, PS2 outputs in 480p via component anyway. Anyone knows why? Thanks!

The way i would work around this kind of issue would be to connect the PS2 to a DVD recorder or a VCR. Utilising the LINE input on such a unit and then connecting the unit to the amp.
PS2......put it in the room where you keep your bong and munchies. sorry, never had much time for games.

Dewa

12-30-05, 01:27 AM

i tried the micro processor re set. This did not help. Thank you denon, just wait til you open for service after new year and i give you an earful!

Zigga

12-30-05, 02:40 AM

datamage

12-30-05, 07:09 AM

Hey everyone. I was wondering what dB level you guys normally watch DVD's at. I have to turn the 3806 all the way up--between -5dB and 0dB--just to get it the right loudness. Is there something wrong? My 5.1 speakers (aperion audio--give them a look if you need speakers) are all 88dB sensitive. What do you guys recommend? I would appreciate your help.

Hi there. Depending on the movie, I usually have mine set anywhere from -30 (rare) to -20. I calibrated my system for 80dBs @ -20, but of course it varies from movie to movie.

- D.

Denon_Kid

12-30-05, 09:26 AM

Hey everyone. I was wondering what dB level you guys normally watch DVD's at. I have to turn the 3806 all the way up--between -5dB and 0dB--just to get it the right loudness. Is there something wrong? My 5.1 speakers (aperion audio--give them a look if you need speakers) are all 88dB sensitive. What do you guys recommend? I would appreciate your help.

you can up the input db level of individual inputs. try up'ing your dvd input to +3 or +6, or more if you need it.

Dewa

12-30-05, 02:24 PM

you can up the input db level of individual inputs. try up'ing your dvd input to +3 or +6, or more if you need it.

in the menu 3.3 you can set each input level for volume to be adjusted so you dont have to jump on the volume bottun when you select a different input. Another hint is to set cable boxes and the like to high volume and attenuate it with the amps adjustments

datamage

12-30-05, 08:18 PM

Oh, right,. I forgot to mention that I have my DVD input @ +6.

- D.

eloser

12-30-05, 09:51 PM

Johnla

12-30-05, 10:37 PM

Does this mean that I can hook my cable up out of the wall into this unit?
No. The coax connector is only for the radio tuner.

or do I have to go through a STB via Composit/Component/S-Video. HDMI

Yes, that's what you will need to do.
It does not have any kind of TV or cable tuner in it, so you can not just hook your cable TV up direct without the cable box.

Dewa

12-31-05, 12:04 AM

Just ordered my 3806S from a local dealer... I was looking at the pictures of the back online and noticed that there is a connection for a 70 OHM Coax Cable. Does this mean that I can hook my cable up out of the wall into this unit? or do I have to go through a STB via Composit/Component/S-Video. If I can run it directly into the receiver, will this input upconvert/scale/process (terminology) to component/HDMI

I don't know what uses this might have, but saw the connection and wasn't sure if it were for radio (under the FM/AM Antenae inputs) or cable/OTA

BUying such equipment and asking these questions displays to me that you need to ssek professional advice on the installation of this unit. Spend a few dollars on a professional, it will be worthwhile getting it done properly the 1st time.

kidziti

12-31-05, 12:21 AM

BUying such equipment and asking these questions displays to me that you need to ssek professional advice on the installation of this unit. Spend a few dollars on a professional, it will be worthwhile getting it done properly the 1st time.

Or you can just study the manual. I'm in a similar situation as eloser - but there is nothing wrong with figuring it all out yourself, and in the end, you really get to understand the equipment and the set-up.

ebarak

12-31-05, 01:32 AM

ezervoud

12-31-05, 04:46 AM

Hi
Need help in connecting my computer (Thinkpad T41) to my Receiver (Denon 3806) or my player (Denon 3910).
Can I connect the computer directly to the player so it can reads and plays the files (both Audio and Movies) directly?
If not, how can I connect the computer to the receiver? I would like to be able to play music and movies through my computer.
I do not know what is the sound card in my computer; is it important for this issue? How can I check that?
Thank you and Happy New Year :)

You can connect your laptop to 3806 via RS-232 in order to apply new firmware only and certainly not for audio streaming. For that you would need the newer 4306 or an external device such as SqueezBox3 from SlimDevices (http://www.slimdevices.com/) or PhotoBridge and SoundBridge from Roku Labs (http://www.rokulabs.com/). I think that all you will need from your computer will be an ethernet adapter or wifi.
If you want to connect your 3910 to your T41 to listen/view music/videos on your computer you would need your sound card to connect from 3910's analog outputs.
Happy New Year to everyone!!!

ebarak

12-31-05, 09:56 AM

spinee

12-31-05, 11:00 AM

Can I connect the computer using an external USB sound card? if I can do it, can you please recommend a USB sound card that will be good for listening to music?
i use an edirol ua-3 (i think the current version is the ua-3fx, which adds a bunch of useless sound effects). it's cheap enough, and has both analog & digital in & out, as well as guitar & mic inputs.

spinee

12-31-05, 11:03 AM

Oh, right,. I forgot to mention that I have my DVD input @ +6.

i've found the same behavior with DD inputs compared to others...i normally listen @ -40dB(ish), but with a DD disk, i need to set it to -22dB or so. with the same disk player using PCM (a cd) i use the normal -40dB, which tells me it's a function of the DD encoding/decoding rather than the player itself.

Mane3215

12-31-05, 12:03 PM

Are there any good online authorized dealers for this product?

morseland

12-31-05, 04:33 PM

There are a list of Etailers on the Denon homepage website. I believe there are other authorized dealers not listed.
I received my 3806 for Christmas and set it up in my playroom/ theatre room that I constructed in my basement last winter. Using the microphone setup the sound separation and overall sound clarity was two fold better than my previous Onkyo 603. Everything worked great for about an hour and I turned the receiver off. After returning an hour later the receiver refused to turn on, the blinking red protection circuit shut the system down when trying to turn the denon back on. I doublechecked all connections and made sure the unit was well ventilated. The unit still refused to come on. I am returning it to the New Jersey factory service center. I will keep you informed. I have two matching subwoofers running off the sub preout off a Y connection, could this be the problem. I reinstalled my Onkyo and everything runs fine.
Has anyone had problems with the protection circuit? Also can you reboot the microprocessor on the 3806? Thanks for any help.

s2silber

12-31-05, 05:14 PM

You can reboot the microprocessor; simple instructions for doing so are in the manual. You may want to try this once before going through the trouble of sending it back to the factory service center.

Mane3215

12-31-05, 05:15 PM

Sheesh do any of the authorized online dealers give ya a break on the retail pricing?

DaveN

12-31-05, 06:57 PM

My 3806 arrives Wed. I read the manual but I need some guidance.

My front speakers are Gallo Reference III which have two sets of speaker inputs, one of which activates a second voice coil in the woofer. I had previously treated the Gallo woofer as a sub with LFE going to each front speaker and my SVS subwoofer.

If I set the unit for bi-amp and the sub control to LFE+ Main with the speakers as large and a subwoofer in my system will this work correctly? Will the LFE go to the second coil and sub w/o sending full range to the upper drivers of my Gallos?

Dewa

12-31-05, 08:25 PM

Can I connect the computer using an external USB sound card? if I can do it, can you please recommend a USB sound card that will be good for listening to music (that is storage in my computer)?
Happy New Year!!!!

The best and easiest way to send you music to the 3806 is to do it wirelessly. If you have a wireless card in your computer get yourself a hold of an APPLE AIRPORT EXPRESS.

It will work cross platform and will allow you to send music from your computer without wires or any need for USB sound cards. airport express (http://store.apple.com/133-622/WebObjects/australiastore.woa/80505/wo/YK3k6FWiU9Za2IRy1GW1mDO6pMB/1.SLID?mco=4F2A42CA&nplm=M9470X%2FA)

tucson_bill

12-31-05, 09:07 PM

Are there any good online authorized dealers for this product?No. They don't have too because Denon protects them with its warrantee policy. They will knock the price down on last years model. If it suits your needs the 3805 can be had for lots less than retail.

DLoAZ

12-31-05, 10:27 PM

and speaking of zone 2, does the AVR-3806 have the same limitation that only analog audio sources can go to zone 2? Mine is still on order from the local installer, and I would like to plan the cabling.

So far it seems I want to use digital from the DVD/CD player (Denon 1920) so that the Equalization can work. But then I need to run parallel analog cables for zone 2? At least the 3805 had this restriction. I understand that there could be only one set of Audio A/D converters, or one set of DSP path, but what exactly is the restriction?

Thanks if anyone has tried the zone 2 feature.

Didn't find anything in the manual saying that it does however, I've tried and can't get any of my optical signals to come out on zone 2. The only one that does it successfully is the tuner (which is analog). So, seems like you've probably guessed right. I'll check it out on Monday and post back.

Johnla

01-01-06, 03:13 AM

I received my 3806 for Christmas and set it up in my playroom/ theatre room that I constructed in my basement last winter. Using the microphone setup the sound separation and overall sound clarity was two fold better than my previous Onkyo 603. Everything worked great for about an hour and I turned the receiver off. After returning an hour later the receiver refused to turn on, the blinking red protection circuit shut the system down when trying to turn the denon back on. I doublechecked all connections and made sure the unit was well ventilated. The unit still refused to come on. I am returning it to the New Jersey factory service center.

If I had one for that short amount of time doing something like that, which sounds like it's clearly a defective unit almost right out of the box if it only worked for about a hour. I would certainly not take it, or send it to their service center to have it repaired. I would instead have whoever sold it to you, replace it with another brand new one.

BodegaBay

01-01-06, 05:11 AM

OK Boss now you're catching an attitude and that is not what this is about. You are taking this personal. You're so hung up on me saying "sorry ass excuse". That being said, can you honestly believe that rushing any technology at the customer's expense is right? That was the point of the example and it was meant to be extreme. Also, I guess you missed the part when I said I love my set up when all is well. Yes I am irritated with the situation but I never said Denon over all was substandard. I think they messed up with these pieces. The tech at Crutchfield said I was not the only one experiencing this.

I would like my system "as is" to operate correctly consistently. That's all I'm asking.

Bottom line: consumers pay for 100% of a product and should receive 100%. Regardless of who is the manufacturer may be.

Well "Malik," I don't care much for someone with under 10 posts/one month's experience in the forum giving 'tude into the thread bitching like it was all Denon's fault.

Of course I don't think rushing technology at the customer's expense is right. (And I personally feel that Denon got the HDMI correct with the 3806. Tell you what, my professional colleagues and I will ask this question to the Denon engineers at CES this week). But we don't live in that ideal world and if you want to play, you gotta pay -- especially for early adopters. If you truly think your "bottom line" is correct, then apparently you paid 100% retail but only got 95%, 90%, 80%, etc. of the product because of the HDMI issue. Then by all means, please return it for 100% refund from the retailer. You sound like your a idealistic man, Malik. And you would stick up to that 100%-to-100% in idealology.

Dewa

01-01-06, 07:39 AM

Well "Malik," I don't care much for someone with under 10 posts/one month's experience in the forum giving 'tude into the thread bitching like it was all Denon's fault.
.
Stop being an apologist for Denon. They have had some sure ass failings with the 3806. I can't wait till this new years period is over & i can stick this HDMI issue up their proverbial technological ARSE.

Dewa

01-01-06, 07:49 AM

Didn't find anything in the manual saying that it does however, I've tried and can't get any of my optical signals to come out on zone 2. The only one that does it successfully is the tuner (which is analog). So, seems like you've probably guessed right. I'll check it out on Monday and post back.
wow i was unaware of this & just gave it a spin.

nope no digital to zone 2

maybe they just want us to do the usual, you know corporate thing they think all we will purchase is denon product and use the denon link for everything.
i wonder if denon link works for zone 2

ezervoud

01-01-06, 01:01 PM

Can I connect the computer using an external USB sound card? if I can do it, can you please recommend a USB sound card that will be good for listening to music (that is storage in my computer)?
Happy New Year!!!!

If I'm not mistaken the 4306 carries a USB port whereas the 3806 comes with an RS-232C serial port. In both cases, however, these ports are for admin purposes.

amarcc

01-01-06, 01:17 PM

If I'm not mistaken the 4306 carries a USB port whereas the 3806 comes with an RS-232C serial port. In both cases, however, these ports are for admin purposes.

Actually, the USB port on the 4306 is used primarily to stream digital audio from USB flash drives.

The 4306 ethernet port is used for admin purposes (in addition to a serial port, perhaps). The ethernet port allows home users to control the 4306 using the 4306's built-in web-server, to update firmware, to save configuration settings, and so on. The ethernet port is also used to stream Internet radio through the receiver, and to play music served by computers on network.

mooneydriver

01-01-06, 01:57 PM

I have a Denon 3806 with Audyssey MultEQ XT equalization. I noticed a rather annoying problem with Audyssey on. Occasionally, there are TV shows with fairly low source volume levels (for example, certain documentaries on INHD or Discovery HD), which require that I bump up the volume. With Audyssey on (doesn't matter whether it's set to Audyssey, Front, Flat, or Manual), I cannot increase the volume setting on the Denon beyond a certain level (for example, -4 dB when using DTS Neo:6, or -1 dB with 5/7-ch Stereo). I've noticed this with stereo audio sources. I believe this issue appears with multichannel sources as well. One might think that Audyssey is limiting volume to prevent clipping or distortion, but the volume limitation does not appear to be a function of source volume -- with some of these documentaries, the volume barely reaches the level of normal conversation when Audyssey starts limiting the volume.

The only way to get around this problem is to turn Audyssey off entirely. With Audyssey turned off, you can increase the volumeall the way to the upper limit.

By the way, I tried changing the input levels (under audio settings). No dice. If I increase the input level by 6 dB, Audyssey starts cutting off at -10 dB instead!

This is a major annoyance for me, because I paid for and prefer to use Audyssey equalization, but everytime this happens I need to turn it off. My wife gets frustrated as well, because she cannot increase the volume to her liking and she'd rather not deal with details such as equalization settings.

Details: Audio source is a Motorola 6412 DVR connected via Optical. Changing optical input ports on the Denon did not help.

(cross-posted as a separate thread as well)

DLoAZ

01-01-06, 03:55 PM

Tried my Cox 3250HD into the HDMI on my 3806 then out to the Monitor. No way; HDCP problem... don't want to fight it anymore.

Next tried running RCAs from the 3250HD into the 3806 component inputs. Expected them to go out on the HDMI to the TV, changed the input to RCA in... No go. I understand why the HDMI could be screwed because of a bad HDCP handshake between the 3250HD and the 3806 but... why would the components not get converted and output on the HDMI? Anybody tried this? What am I doing wrong?

mooneydriver

01-01-06, 04:03 PM

Dewa

01-01-06, 05:29 PM

PISH

01-01-06, 07:36 PM

New guy here...I have read all postings to this forum,fantastic! So far everyone is very helpful, and informative,excellent! I don't have the 3806 in my HT yet but
I control the time I get it. Traded EAD preamp/processor & poweramp for 3806. At this time I have the 1920 in an unopened box, maybe to unpack it 1-2-06. To me
the 1920 is a keeper, the thread I have read for this unit is equal to this one.
I going to make a comment in something I do not know much about, "VIDEO".
I have read in past posts of that most of members here have cable or satellite box
with a HDMI output. And most of those owners take that HDMI output to input of 3806, which is causing problems, because of the firmware. So if this is the case, why not just send the cable/satellite box HDMI output directly to TV? I'll admit I do not have up to date TV , so if I guess the TV (display), connection panel only has one HDMI input and this is why the use of the 3806 is used for video. One input (#1) is used by the DVD player, and the other input (#2) is used from the "box". The 3806 is used as a video switcher between the DVD player and the "box"? ( unless of coarse the TV would have two HDMI inputs, then the 3806
could left out of the loop)
One item on this thread that is a concern, is the limiting of volume. EQ is on or off, listening to what type of input, setting up inputs attenuations. I know I have good tech support from the audio store, but there is something about setting this unit up for myself that I want to accomplish. I hope I don't say, "I should have went with the Pioneer VSX-74TXVi". I'm sure all receivers these days are very complicated to setup and understand. But to understand is first, but to offer help and solve problems is a goal I would like to share.

Past Equipment: Front speakers: B&W DM7
Center: B&W CC6
Sub and rears: Custom build, (local DIY enthusiast)

Preamp/Processor: EAD Encore
Poweramp: EAD Powermaster 500
DVD player: Sony DVP-C650D (5 disc changer)
TV: (the weak link!) Panasonic 27" (CRT)

DLoAZ

01-01-06, 10:15 PM

The same setup works for me - 3806 transcodes component video to HDMI just fine.

Right steps:

1. Video Setup --> Component in Assign --> select the right RCA inputs for the source
2. Video Setup --> Video Convert --> make sure it's set to ON for the source you want
3. Video Setup --> HDMI Out Setup --> Analog to HDMI Convert needs to be ON. Also make sure the Color Space is set to YCbCr.

Thanks for the steps. Sure seems like I tried these but could have just been tired of screwing with it and gave up too soon. I'll try again. Thanks for confirming that it actually works. It helps to know that I'm not just flailing.

Cheers!

gfbuchanan

01-01-06, 10:58 PM

Pish,

Not quite sure what your question is. People want to use the 3806 to switch the HDMI signal to simplify their setups. First you only have to run one connection from the receiver to the display, instead of several. Second, you can keep your TV set to a single input source. Then when you select the source (like DVD or STB), you don't have to also use the TV remote to set the proper source on the TV. So it is mostly a convinence (WAF) factor.

I am not sure what the problem is for those folks that say it is not loud enough. I have a set of Paradigm Monitor speakers, and it runs plenty loud enough in my 16x16x9 family room with an open wall to the kitchen. My spouse will not let me turn it up beyond about -10DB.

The setup is not that hard. But there are several steps, and the instructions are not that clear. I have had to re-read the instructions several times to understand the intricacies of the configuration. But you can get a good running system pretty quickly.

Greg

...I have read in past posts of that most of members here have cable or satellite box
with a HDMI output. And most of those owners take that HDMI output to input of 3806, which is causing problems, because of the firmware. So if this is the case, why not just send the cable/satellite box HDMI output directly to TV? I'll admit I do not have up to date TV , so if I guess the TV (display), connection panel only has one HDMI input and this is why the use of the 3806 is used for video. One input (#1) is used by the DVD player, and the other input (#2) is used from the "box". The 3806 is used as a video switcher between the DVD player and the "box"? ( unless of coarse the TV would have two HDMI inputs, then the 3806
could left out of the loop)
One item on this thread that is a concern, is the limiting of volume. EQ is on or off, listening to what type of input, setting up inputs attenuations. I know I have good tech support from the audio store, but there is something about setting this unit up for myself that I want to accomplish. I hope I don't say, "I should have went with the Pioneer VSX-74TXVi". I'm sure all receivers these days are very complicated to setup and understand. But to understand is first, but to offer help and solve problems is a goal I would like to share.

gfbuchanan

01-01-06, 11:40 PM

DLoAZ,

Sorry but the 3806 does not convert analog audio signals to HDMI. Nor will it output digital inputs on the HDMI output. The only audio signal it will send out on the HDMI output is one that comes in on an HDMI input. This is stated in the notes in the upper left corner of page 67 of the manual. Also see the NOTE: on page 8 which says, "Audio signals are only output from the HDMI monitor out terminal when audio signals are input to the HDMI input terminal."

But I am just curious. Why do you want to pass the audio signals out of the 3806 to the TV? I have not seen any TV speakers that can compare to the speakers we run off the 3806. So why pass the audio to the TV?

Greg

Tried my Cox 3250HD into the HDMI on my 3806 then out to the Monitor. No way; HDCP problem... don't want to fight it anymore.

Next tried running RCAs from the 3250HD into the 3806 component inputs. Expected them to go out on the HDMI to the TV, changed the input to RCA in... No go. I understand why the HDMI could be screwed because of a bad HDCP handshake between the 3250HD and the 3806 but... why would the components not get converted and output on the HDMI? Anybody tried this? What am I doing wrong?

mooneydriver

01-02-06, 02:40 AM

gfbuchanan:

I believe DLoAZ was asking about video transcoding to HDMI; not about analog audio (hence the mention of component inputs).

Also, my issue with volume limiting is not a problem with "not loud enough." It's the inability to increase the volume setting beyond a preset dB limit (-4 dB) when Audyssey is on.

eloser

01-02-06, 07:23 PM

Does anyone know if the 3806 is THX Certified? I checked the Denon Website and it's not listed as a format whereas the 4806 has it listed.

Thanks
E

mooneydriver

01-02-06, 08:04 PM

No, it's not.

racer713

01-02-06, 08:29 PM

Hi, new to the site. Just picked up the 3806 2 days ago and I have a couple of questions. I have read through 90% of this post so I do not think that they are repeats. Concerning the MultEQ Xt indicator light. According to the manual when in Audyssey mode the light should be green. When mine says it is in Audyyssey mode the light remains red? Any ideas? Anyone else using Def Tech speakers with this amp? if so what did you set your size to for 2006 fronts? Thank you in advance.

Bozeman

01-02-06, 09:24 PM

Can anyone give me advice on running 2 subs with the 3806--I was going to just Y out of the sub-out, then simply run separate RCA's to each sub. This might not work, or not enough bandwidth for 2 subs--dont know, thanks for your help!

Richard637

01-02-06, 11:01 PM

I am a new 3806 owner. The receiver seems to run very hot. I previously had a Denon 2600 and it was nowhere near as hot. I placed a temperature probe on top of the receiver and it registered 105 degrees in a 68 degree room with the receiver on the top shelf of an open rack. It runs about the same temperature at idle. Is this normal?

Daz-man

01-02-06, 11:20 PM

Okay, I have a set of speakers which can be bi-amped and I know how to hook them up to the 3806. But once you hook them up can you not control the HF to the tweeter and the LF to the woofer? Otherwise I don't see any benefit.

brad79

01-02-06, 11:36 PM

datamage

01-03-06, 02:32 AM

Hi, new to the site. Just picked up the 3806 2 days ago and I have a couple of questions. I have read through 90% of this post so I do not think that they are repeats. Concerning the MultEQ Xt indicator light. According to the manual when in Audyssey mode the light should be green. When mine says it is in Audyyssey mode the light remains red? Any ideas?

Hmm,. mine lights up red as well. Any others?

- D.

epsilon

01-03-06, 03:08 AM

From p. 30 of the manual:

The MultEQ XT indicator also lights red if the “Speaker
Configuration”, “Distance”, “Channel Level” or “Crossover
Frequency” is set manually after conducting the Auto Setup
procedure.

Dewa

01-03-06, 05:01 AM

quick question from newbie regarding the multi-zone features on the 3806...

I am running a 5.1 and then two other systems with 2-speakers each (audio only) from this thread it appears that I will have to have a second amp to power the third zone? Or could I run the third zone from the rears of the 7.1? I am guessing a very basic amp would work for the third zone (2 outdoor speakers)

Secondly, regarding volume controls I want to install Niles/IR four-source keypads in the two other zones, will these volume controls tie in directly with the reciever or do I need a separate component to tie the controllers into?

Thanks in advance!

The way to work around 2 other zones and not using another Amp, is to run both pairs of speaker wires to a simple A/B speaker switch. Works 4 me.
The Niles volume controls are over kill, and over pri$$ed. Generic in wall vol controls will suffice. There is no need for IR controls if you are using the 2/3 zones for audio only.

racer713

01-03-06, 07:48 AM

Thanks Epsilon. This is a great Forum.

brad79

01-03-06, 12:49 PM

Dewa,

Quick question, without IR how do I go about fast forwarding tracks/changing stations? Where is a good place to find generic volume controls (I thought they were priced very high as well)

brad79

01-03-06, 01:10 PM

Looks like a good option for the other zones is to connect the Denon RC-616 IR re-transmitter, I could just get an extra remote, has anyone else used this device?

Pros/Cons vs. actual multisource volume/control panels?

Dewa

01-03-06, 08:22 PM

Dewa,

Quick question, without IR how do I go about fast forwarding tracks/changing stations? Where is a good place to find generic volume controls (I thought they were priced very high as well)

What is it with people, you get what you pay for.
If you want a system that allows you to have 2 or 3 zones and the ability to multi task and cotrol all of the stations disc settings volume controls go & buy a BOSE lifestyle unit.

Everybody wants all this functionality but are not willing to pay for it or are too willing to slag off the BOSE speaker quality.

Solution for you buddy, go get yourself a speakercraft MZC66. You'll be able to do everything you ever dreamed of. In stereo with composit video feed to any zone.
You see there are tradeoffs.

You need to discuss the AV requirements of your house with a decent consultant before you make your purchases. Band aid solutions cause more problems and usually cost more in the long run.

Rant Over.

gfbuchanan

01-03-06, 10:43 PM

Mooneydriver

OK, When DLoAZ said RCAs I just thought of audio, not video. Guess he may have forgotten to turn on the HDMI convert function.

As for the -4 DB, guess I don't understand the issue. If it goes loud enough, what is the difference if it says -4DB or +5DB? I think of that number as an indication of the relative loudness, not an reference level output.

The manual does say something about if offsets/equlizations are set to positive values, it reduces the maximum level.

Greg

gfbuchanan:

I believe DLoAZ was asking about video transcoding to HDMI; not about analog audio (hence the mention of component inputs).

Also, my issue with volume limiting is not a problem with "not loud enough." It's the inability to increase the volume setting beyond a preset dB limit (-4 dB) when Audyssey is on.

globalhopkins

01-03-06, 11:22 PM

spinee

01-04-06, 08:55 AM

Potential 3806 buyer here with a couple of questions:

1) XM radio - Does it show on the TV or on the receiver itself who the artist is and/or song playing?
2) XM radio antenna - does it use the standard XM antenna? I can't tell by the picture of the back of the unit. It almost looks like a miniature usb cable connection
3) Can anyone download the manual from the website? I have tried on 2 different computers and both fail while trying to load the PDF.
4) And finally - I have read it is NOT possible to convert HDMI to Component. Since I only have 1 component cable running through my walls to the TV from my current Denon 1803 system, does it make since for me to upgrade and pay extra for the HDMI functionality I will never be able to use. (I don't plan on running HDMI cable through the walls.) I want to upgrade because of the 3 component inputs and the 2 component outputs. I figured I could add a 4th input (DVD) using HDMI.

1) shows on the receiver, according to the manual, by pressing the STATUS button to cycle through each item. it may also show on the tv, but since i'm not an xm subscriber, i can't really answer that one.
2) it's a special type designed for this type of receiver.
3) yes
4) you have read correctly. it is not possible to convert from HDMI to component. and that will more than likely be true for every receiver from now until the end of time, unless somebody creates some sort of pirate box to defeat the copy protection scheme in HDMI.

depolk

01-04-06, 10:27 AM

AbsolutelyFree

01-04-06, 01:38 PM

I recently bought a Denon 3806 and Polk Audio RM20's. My wife had a set of 5 year old Paradigm Monitor 7's. Our living room was wired for 4 speakers before we moved in. The fronts are 7 feet off the ground, and the rears are about the same height.
I was hoping to figure out a way to use the Paradigms as front speakers and the polk 5.1 system to generate a 7.1 system, but because of the locations of the built in connections, it seems impossible. Please correct me if I am wrong (I sincerely hope to be wrong).
Right now, I have the Paradigms connected to Zone 2 on the Denon, but actually listening to music through the system is remarkably painful as one has to mute the Amp to not get sound concurrently from the 5.1 system and the paradigms. Is there an easy way to set this up (vcr-2 (ipod input) or tuner or DVD/cd player when played via zone 2 will mute zone 1)?
Also, I have a Pioneer plasma TV with a separate media box. The coax television cable plugs into this box. I am hoping that I can output TV signal from the media box into the TV input on the Denon and have that signal then go to the TV through the HDMI output on the Denon. Using this method, I will not have to use the Pioneer remote to change the input from input 1 to antenna, etc. Does anyone know if that is possible? I have connected an S-video cable to the monitor out port on the media box into the Denon TV S-video in plug, but I get no signal. I think that the media box will not output TV signal using S-video, but I am hoping to be incorrect on this issue as well.
Sorry about the length, but this AVR has the worst manual and setup I have ever seen in electronic equipment, though I am a total newb.

Commiserating with you on the manual; it's truly a case-study in tech writing done wrong. Anyway, regarding your proposed 7.1 configuration, depending on how your room is set up, this should work. A true 5.1 confuguration would have two speakers in the front and two surround speakers mounted at about 90 degrees to the left and right of your listening position, plus the sub. Since you have pre-wired "rears" those could serve as your 7.1 additions. Just put the Polk "fronts" to the left and right of your listening position at 90 degrees and those will be your surrounds (these can be mounted above your ear level so you don't need to be limited by height) and put the Polk "surrounds" at the back which are already wired for it and those will be your rears. Ditch the "Zone" configuration and you would be set. Of course you'll need to run new wires for the surrounds.

I don't have much imput about your media box problem. Why are you outputing svideo? Can't that box do Component? If it can, then you'd go component into the 3806 and HDMI out to your TV (one cable and no imput changes on the tv).

Also, if you want to listen to pure stereo in this configuration, the receiver has built in "sereo mode only". Several buttons on the front of the 3806 let you play arround with various stereo, digital, and simulated audio formats. Pure Direct is a good mode for listening to audio only. I use the "Auto" mode setting which automatically detects the incoming signal (stereo drives only the fronts and the sub, digital or simulated drive everything).

slick316

01-04-06, 04:07 PM

dedwards

01-04-06, 04:52 PM

slick316

01-04-06, 04:58 PM

^^
Not what I was wanting to hear, but kind of what I was expecting. Thanks for the input.

spinee

01-04-06, 05:39 PM

Quick question regarding the remote, is it nice? I mean, would you, or do you, use it as a replacement for a universal remote? I heard that the 3805 had a quirky remote that most people didn't like, just wondering if this new one was better.
How about - aggravating piece o' crap, isn't fit to hold the batteries for my MX-700.

That's my vote anyways - I like the receiver though...
i'll agree on both points. it's a weird hybrid: they apparently wanted it to look like a touchscreen but didn't want to put the $$$ necessary into it, so it's a weird "soft hardbuttoned" remote. i put all its stuff into my MX-500 and tossed it into a drawer.

epsilon

01-04-06, 06:45 PM

I third that opinion. MX-500 rules, I still haven't found a worthy replacement (ok, maybe the 700 is better ;)

mooneydriver

01-04-06, 10:00 PM

I was going to go with "useless piece o' crap", but I must agree with dedwards, it's a rather aggravating piece of failed human interface design. Fortunately, I have a Pronto!

DaveN

01-04-06, 10:24 PM

Anyone have the remote code for the Panny 50" plasma. I've yet to hit it among the 30 Panny codes.

Dewa

01-05-06, 06:04 AM

Quick question regarding the remote, is it nice? I mean, would you, or do you, use it as a replacement for a universal remote? I heard that the 3805 had a quirky remote that most people didn't like, just wondering if this new one was better.
the remote is sweet, the learning function is really cool & easy to set up. Its a pity the numbers & ch/vol buttons are not illuminated.

get a logitech harmony 880 they work with everything.

Dewa

01-05-06, 06:18 AM

Thats what you get when you buy a Pioneer. Great display, shithouse interface with its outdated stupid Media Box. Don't worry pioneer are going broke so hopefully Media Boxes will be a thing of the past.

Dewa

01-05-06, 06:48 AM

Potential 3806 buyer here with a couple of questions:

1) XM radio - Does it show on the TV or on the receiver itself who the artist is and/or song playing?
2) XM radio antenna - does it use the standard XM antenna? I can't tell by the picture of the back of the unit. It almost looks like a miniature usb cable connection
3) Can anyone download the manual from the website? I have tried on 2 different computers and both fail while trying to load the PDF.
4) And finally - I have read it is NOT possible to convert HDMI to Component. Since I only have 1 component cable running through my walls to the TV from my current Denon 1803 system, does it make since for me to upgrade and pay extra for the HDMI functionality I will never be able to use. (I don't plan on running HDMI cable through the walls.) I want to upgrade because of the 3 component inputs and the 2 component outputs. I figured I could add a 4th input (DVD) using HDMI.

Thanks! MIKE

Any other receivers that can do 3 Comp In / 2 out without HDMI?
yamaha RXV2500 does that beautiful sound shithouse user interface and a dog of a remote, not as functional as the 3806 but pay le$$.

why not use the component cable as a draw wire and pull a HDMI cable thru in its place. :)

globalhopkins

01-05-06, 09:26 AM

Any other receivers that can do 3 Comp In / 2 out without HDMI?
yamaha RXV2500 does that beautiful sound shithouse user interface and a dog of a remote, not as functional as the 3806 but pay le$$.

why not use the component cable as a draw wire and pull a HDMI cable thru in its place. :)

I have over a 50 foot run from my stereo system to the Plasma. I made my own Component Cables using coax cable. 50ft of HDMI cable will cost me an arm and a leg. :rolleyes:

I just went to the Yamaha USA site and the RXV2500 has only 3 Comp In / 1 out. :(
Yamaha's site is terrible for looking at the 'back view' of a receiver. Why can't it just load up the whole picture versus all the little sub sections?

tsax6010

01-05-06, 09:39 AM

I have over a 50 foot run from my stereo system to the Plasma. I made my own Component Cables using coax cable. 50ft of HDMI cable will cost me an arm and a leg. :rolleyes:

Check out monoprice.com

HDMI Cable male to male (22AWG) - 50ft (Gold Plated) for $99.99

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10231&cs_id=1023102&p_id=2678&seq=1&format=2&style=

They also have a 24AWG version for $65, but no available ETA on stock. For the distance I would imagine you would have less of a chance of digital "Falloff" problems on the signal with the 22AWG version.

Compare that to $300 for a 50' Monster cable from Crutchfield.

djwww98

01-05-06, 08:13 PM

Dewa

01-05-06, 11:33 PM

Check out monoprice.com

HDMI Cable male to male (22AWG) - 50ft (Gold Plated) for $99.99

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10231&cs_id=1023102&p_id=2678&seq=1&format=2&style=

They also have a 24AWG version for $65, but no available ETA on stock. For the distance I would imagine you would have less of a chance of digital "Falloff" problems on the signal with the 22AWG version.

Compare that to $300 for a 50' Monster cable from Crutchfield.
Just be careful with cheap HDMI cables, some around if not HDMI certified will have issues handshaking to other equipment.

Dewa

01-05-06, 11:40 PM

OK so we took the amp to the store and set it up & WOW there was nothing wrong with the Amp, so home again & plugges it in with a new HDMI cable. NO difference, Damn.

Ok the next step was to eliminate the Projector (Panasonic 700AE)
If i run HDMI into the Amp, then HDMI to the projector is perfect.

Ok so off to a mates house who also has the same projector, & we set it all up and yes did get picture from his DVD player, component out > HDMI into the projector.

Conclusion....THE PROJECTOR NEEDS to accept PROGRESSIVE SCAN
If the image is interlaced, the Projector will not accept an image from the amp. Some Plasmas will but it is probably something to do with the LCD and flicker rates of images.

Oh well its component for the time being until i sort out a DVD player with progressive scan & just deal with it :p :D

spinee

01-05-06, 11:45 PM

Quick question about Audyssey...should the set up test tones be extremely loud? I started to set mine up last night and when I started the Audyssey setup, it scared the crap out of me. Extremely loud. It was 2am so I aborted for fear of waking the neighborhood. It was like it was full static pink noise coming from each speaker at full volume. I'll be trying it again tonight, with earplugs. Is this normal?
okay, that's weird. when i did it, it was a rising test tone rather than pink noise. and yes, it was fairly loud: sounded like the martians were landing. sounded like kraftwerk, asleep at their keyboards. sounded like a herd of rampaging synthesizers.

(what i'm trying to say in my own obtuse way is: no pink noise, yes loud.)

leadercrat

01-06-06, 12:26 AM

What should I look for in the specifications of the 3806 vs 4306 regarding the capabilities, if any, of these receivers to receive upgrades? I am particularly interested in potential HDMI upgrades. Does Denon have a good history of providing upgrades for this class of receiver?

Thank you.

Leadercrat

FlyingDutchmen

01-06-06, 03:21 AM

I just spent the last two days comparing the Pioneer VSX-72-TXV head-to-head with the Denon AVR3806 in our showroon...or should I say resisting the urge to take the hammer to the Denon.
Anyways, here are my conclusions.
HDMI conversion / Switching:
Denon:
1) will convert all analog video to HDMI, however a serious loss in pq was noted. We ran our HD Sat out via component and DVI (adapted to HDMI) into the Denon and out to the Infocus 7210 Projector via both HDMI (adapted to M1/DVI) and component. Component in to component out, no change in pq. HDMI in to HDMI out, no change in pq. Component in to HDMI out, serious loss in pq.
2) HDMI or component in to HDMI out, will only passthrough 480P, 720P, and 1080i unscaled. Any other resolution, i.e. 480i, 1024 x 768 (via PC), etc... will be scaled to 1440 x 480P. This was confirmed by the IF7210.
3) HDCP handshake was unpredictable. Some HDCP compliant sources, such as the Denon DVD1920 and the Oppo OPDV971H worked perfect. However, others were a no go.

Pioneer:
1) same results as the 3806...
2) will passthrough any resolution without scaling. This was confirmed via our HTPC DVI, and component out to the Pioneer HDMI and component in, with several resolutions such as 800 x 600P, 1024 x 768P, 1280 x 720P, 1920 x 1080i, etc... So the big difference is not only that it allows multiple resolutions, but specifically interlaced 480i. We were not able to test 1080P since the IF7210 will not display it.
3) All sources that we connected via DVI/HDMI had no problems with HDCP handshake.

As for features, functionality, sound quality, etc... I think these have already been discussed in detail.

So my conclusion is that if you need trouble-free HDMI conversion / switching, the Pioneer is your choice, with a slight loss SQ and warmth. In the end, we decided to go with the Denon and live with the issues / problems with HDMI, since we will not be limited in our setup, but it does mean that we can not use one single HDMI run from the Denon to the IF7210, but we have two component and one DVI run through the walls, so it is not a problem.

Hopefully this helps some of you in making the choice.

Dewa

01-06-06, 06:34 AM

[QUOTE=FlyingDutchmen]I just spent the last two days comparing the Pioneer VSX-72-TXV head-to-head with the Denon AVR3806 in our showroon...or should I say resisting the urge to take the hammer to the Denon.
Anyways, here are my conclusions.

All it shows was that you were using a projector that does not have HDMI input. a 2nd rate infocus by screenplay. Try using the 2 on a Fujitsu 63" Plasma and then give us a better review, pure connectios none of the adaptor garbage please.

tsax6010

01-06-06, 08:33 AM

Just be careful with cheap HDMI cables, some around if not HDMI certified will have issues handshaking to other equipment.

monoprice.com is a forum sponsorer, and has received nothing but positive reviews from members here as to the quality of the cables.

FlyingDutchmen

01-06-06, 02:10 PM

Dewa,

Sorry we can't all afford a Panny 700AE... and have to make due with a 2nd rate Infocus.

alex1971

01-06-06, 04:18 PM

I just spent the last two days comparing the Pioneer VSX-72-TXV head-to-head with the Denon AVR3806 in our showroon...or should I say resisting the urge to take the hammer to the Denon.

... Any other resolution, i.e. 480i, 1024 x 768 (via PC), etc... will be scaled to 1440 x 480P. This was confirmed by the IF7210.

The AVR-3806 is not able to scale any resolution.
It has no deinterlacer and no Scaler.

What do you mean ?

Confirmes by IF7210 that the AVR-3806 is able to scale ? Just a joke...

tsax6010

01-06-06, 04:35 PM

2) HDMI or component in to HDMI out, will only passthrough 480P, 720P, and 1080i unscaled. Any other resolution, i.e. 480i, 1024 x 768 (via PC), etc... will be scaled to 1440 x 480P. This was confirmed by the IF7210.

The AVR-3806 is not able to scale any resolution.
It has no deinterlacer and no Scaler.

What do you mean ?

Confirmes by IF7210 that the AVR-3806 is able to scale ? Just a joke...

Correct. No scaler on the 3806, so this is not even possible.

Maybe your PC was changing resolutions based on PNP info it was getting back from either the projector or receiver. Try using powerstrip to check the actual output resolution instead on relying on what you set in Windows.

There has been discussion on this over in the JVC 1080p RPTV threads. When setting the PC to output 1080p via DVI-HDMI, the TV was sending back a max res support of 1080i. The PC would change output resolution to match.

Also, the 3806 natively outputs all of it's OSD info via 480i. It would not make sense that you would have a problem feeding it a 480i signal. Think of all those poor souls that must have been having problems for months now feeding regular 480i SD content through their 3806... :rolleyes:

colemanr

01-07-06, 03:00 PM

I have a 3806 that's about a week old and I'd like to know if what I'm seeing is a configuration issue on my end or a bug in the firmware.

I have the following setup:

3 devices connected via s-video
3 devices connected via component cables
Receiver connected to the TV (Samsung DLP 5067) via component cables

I frequently find that the receiver doesn’t properly switch from a device using s-video to one using a component connection or from component to component, as long as the OSD is turned off (the first option in the On Screen Display menu). Switching from component to composite or from composite to composite always seems to work, but often there is no video signal being output from the receiver after a switch to a component device. I’ve tried two different monitors and powering on and off the affected device, but the only thing that forces the receiver to output a video signal in this case is causing it (the receiver) to display something via OSD. In other words, there will be no video signal output until I either enter setup mode or hit the OSD button the remote to get the receiver to draw something to the screen. Once I’ve done that, the signal appears and stays connected.

The audio always switches properly and the receiver display indicates the proper device, so it clearly thinks that it switched.

The problem seems to be related to having the OSD turned off, because I can’t make it happen when the OSD is turned on. It seemed to happen most often with my Sony DVD player, but I just had it happen with my DirecTV HR10-250 (TiVo), so I suspect that it’s not the fault of the device.

This behavior is quite annoying, given that this seems to happen most of the time (if not 100%). Due to the way that I have things wired in my house, leaving the OSD on also is annoying and intrusive.

Can anyone else confirm or deny that this happens to them? For what it's worth, the component devices that I'm using (and that have exhibited the issue) are an HR10-250, a Sony NS575P DVD player, and an XBox.

Thanks,
Rob

freebee

01-08-06, 02:05 PM

Quick question about Audyssey...should the set up test tones be extremely loud? I started to set mine up last night and when I started the Audyssey setup, it scared the crap out of me. Extremely loud. It was 2am so I aborted for fear of waking the neighborhood. It was like it was full static pink noise coming from each speaker at full volume. I'll be trying it again tonight, with earplugs. Is this normal?

Funny... This same thing happened to me. I was running the Auto Setup/Room EQ for the first time, and very lound pink noise came out of all the speakers. And yes, it about made me jump out of my skin. My subwoofer started making a sound that I thought would take down the house. My reaction was to quickly push the power button and turn the receiver off. When I got up the courage to try again, the test tones were generated as expected. Very strange. I can only assume that it was a bug. Anyone else seen this?

c722

01-09-06, 12:37 AM

The AVR-3806 is not able to scale any resolution.
It has no deinterlacer and no Scaler.

sorry for the OT. Can the 4306 scale (from component/svideo) ? I assumed both (Denons) will at least transcode a 720p/1080i component in to HDMI, am I correct ?

alex1971

01-09-06, 01:13 AM

sorry for the OT. Can the 4306 scale (from component/svideo) ? I assumed both (Denons) will at least transcode a 720p/1080i component in to HDMI, am I correct ?

Both (3806 / 4306) are able to "transcode" analog Signals to HDMI.

Only 4306 is able to Deinterlace (480i > 480p / 576i > 576p) and Scale to 720P and 1080i

QZ1

01-09-06, 06:17 PM

I am about to buy a 3806. So. my Sony XBR800 (GWII) LCD and Motorola 6412 DVR have DVI, and this 3806 Receiver has HDMI.

So, do I just keep keep the DVR connected to my TV by DVI for Video and the DVR connected to the Receiver by Optical/Coaxial for Audio?

Or is there any reason to connect it through the Receiver?
I would need two DVI to HDMI cables, but then I would still need Optical/Coaxial for Audio, right?

I could trade in the DVR for one with HDMI, (eventually I will, it's just this one has been so good so far), and then the DVR could send HDMI A/V to the Receiver and that would output Audio to the Speakers and Video to the TV via HDMI to DVI adapter, is that right?

s2silber

01-09-06, 08:26 PM

Does the headphone output on the '3806 perform any DSP, or is it simply an independent stereo output channel rendering whatever listening mode the receiver was in before the headphones were plugged in irrelevant?

tokerblue

01-10-06, 09:28 AM

Two quick questions.

1. When you plug in headphones into the receiver, does the receiver still send output to the speakers?
2. I read the threads and it looks like the HDMI version is 1.1. I know the specs aren’t final yet, but is this a high enough version to pass HD-DVD and BluRay based on what is known?

tsax6010

01-10-06, 09:32 AM

I read the threads and it looks like the HDMI version is 1.1. I know the specs aren’t final yet, but is this a high enough version to pass HD-DVD and BluRay based on what is known?

According to Denon, YES.

colemanr

01-10-06, 10:01 AM

1. When you plug in headphones into the receiver, does the receiver still send output to the speakers?

I believe that the manual states that the speakers are automatically muted when the headphones are plugged in on the 3806. Earlier models had a separate button to do this.

Rob

tokerblue

01-10-06, 11:11 AM

tucson_bill

01-10-06, 02:23 PM

Ugh. I was hoping this wouldn’t be the answer.

Here’s the situation. My grandmother is hard of hearing, so I bought wireless headphones for her to watch movies with the rest of the family. I usually plug the headphones into a receiver with the mini to RCA plug. Is there an analog out (Stereo) that will pass audio to the headphones in the same manner?There are several things you could try. You didn't specify your audio source. You can put the headphones on zone 2 or 3, but you'd be limited to analog audio sources. If your movies are from a source with both digital and analog out, and you have free analog inputs you could still send the digital audio to the main zone and the analog to zone 2 or 3. If you have both digital and analog out but no free inputs on the 3806 consider putting a cheap stereo amp on the analog out just for the headphones. Probably the same one you would use anyway on the zone 2/3 pre outs. Seems like you should be able to come up with something that would work.

s2silber

01-10-06, 02:36 PM

Speaking of headphones, does anyone know the answer to my previously posted question, i.e., whether the headphone output on the '3806 performs any DSP, or is it simply an independent/analog stereo output channel rendering whatever listening mode the receiver was in before the headphones were plugged in irrelevant?

gfbuchanan

01-10-06, 02:46 PM

Another thought on headphones is to use one of the wireless headphones, connected to the Zone 3 output. You still have to have analog input, but it would get rid of the wires. This was suggested by the dealer when I bought my 3806.

Greg

tokerblue

01-10-06, 02:48 PM

You didn't specify your audio source.
- Source would most likely be a DVD Player (HDMI), STB (Toslink) or VCR (stereo analog).

If you have both digital and analog out but no free inputs on the 3806 consider putting a cheap stereo amp on the analog out just for the headphones. Probably the same one you would use anyway on the zone 2/3 pre outs. Seems like you should be able to come up with something that would work.
- Do I need a stereo amp or could I possibly plug the wireless base directly into the audio out to get both digital and analog inputs?

gfbuchanan

01-10-06, 03:06 PM

Just tried this. I was running a Dolby Digital input from the Coax (Blue Man Group, Complex mixed 5.1). Plugging in a headphone mutes the speakers, turns off Room Equalization, and down mixes the input to output Stereo (Left & Right). Same results for DTS. I did not hear any special DSP work to "simulate" a 5.1 system through headphones. But I am not sure what that would sound like anyway.

Greg

gfbuchanan

01-10-06, 03:09 PM

Not sure about this as I have not tried it. It was a suggestion from the dealer. But from what he said, I seemed that the wireless headsets would accept the output of the preamp (zone 2/3 out) directly. If the wireless headset has a pair of RCA analog inputs, I think it would work directly from the 3806.

Greg

- Do I need a stereo amp or could I possibly plug the wireless base directly into the audio out to get both digital and analog inputs?

tucson_bill

01-10-06, 04:15 PM

- Source would most likely be a DVD Player (HDMI), STB (Toslink) or VCR (stereo analog).

- Do I need a stereo amp or could I possibly plug the wireless base directly into the audio out to get both digital and analog inputs?I'm in the same boat as gfbuchanan having not tried it and not being familiar with your headphones. It sounds like the base is intended to plug directly into a headphone jack, so I assume it's expecting to be driven by headphone levels and not the line level output from the dvd player. Also, I assumed you would need a volume control. If you can connect to the zone 2 preout you'd have volume control via the 3806. For that matter, if you can assign the rear speaker outs to zone2 you could certainly drive headphones with that, but I'd be REAL careful with the volume control. Do I infer correctly from your last post that you don't have an available analog input on the 3806, or did it just sound simpler to come straight out of the dvd player?

edit: Just to make sure I've been clear, you've only specified digital outputs for the DVD player and the STB. If there aren't analog audio outputs on these two items none of my suggestions do you any good.

Scott Smith

01-10-06, 06:29 PM

Got a new one to add to the list.

Equipment:
3806 connected to LG Table Top DLP 52" 52SX4D 1280 x 720P Native Res Via HDMI and Component.
1920 HDMI to 3806
Dish 811 Component / Optical to 3806
Dish 510 DVR connected Composite / RCA Audio

Watching the 1920 no OSD from the 3806 Component or HDMI
Watching the 811 no OSD from the 3806 via Component or HDMI
Watching the 510 OSD works on component.

Is the low res on the DLP causing the problem?

tokerblue

01-10-06, 06:39 PM

I'm in the same boat as gfbuchanan having not tried it and not being familiar with your headphones. It sounds like the base is intended to plug directly into a headphone jack, so I assume it's expecting to be driven by headphone levels and not the line level output from the dvd player. Also, I assumed you would need a volume control.
- Sorry I wasn't clear. The headphones are a wireless Sony. There is a volume control on the actual headset, so I wouldn't need the 3806 to control the volume. I just need a way to get audio from whatever source may be playing, whether it's digital or analog.

Do I infer correctly from your last post that you don't have an available analog input on the 3806, or did it just sound simpler to come straight out of the dvd player?
- I'm buying the 3806 tonight and am hoping it has a simple analog out that plays whatever the receiver is receiving, which is why I'm hoping to avoid plugging it into the DVD player's audio out.. The headphone jack was the easiest option, but it mutes it. :(

spinee

01-11-06, 11:39 AM

Scott Smith

01-11-06, 12:11 PM

it may depend on the output of the 1920/811. i'm pretty sure that OSD is only available for 480i, so if either of those are set for 480p (or higher) there will be no OSD.

You are correct. Just got off the phone with Matt from Denon. He is a smart cookie and was able to explain it pretty well.

The OSD is in 480i and if the signal to the TV is anything other than 480i the TV can not display 2 diffrent resolutions at the same time.

So I asked "Why not have the OSD in diffrent formats?" He said it would run the cost up. He said, "Better yet, why can't the TV display 2 resolutions at the same time? :D

I said, "Since most of the programing is 1080i then why not make the OSD 1080i?

He said, "That would require a scailer so why not buy a 4806?" :D

tsax6010

01-11-06, 12:27 PM

You are correct. Just got off the phone with Matt from Denon. He is a smart cookie and was able to explain it pretty well.

The OSD is in 480i and if the signal to the TV is anything other than 480i the TV can not display 2 diffrent resolutions at the same time.

So I asked "Why not have the OSD in diffrent formats?" He said it would run the cost up. He said, "Better yet, why can't the TV display 2 resolutions at the same time? :D

I said, "Since most of the programing is 1080i then why not make the OSD 1080i?

He said, "That would require a scailer so why not buy a 4806?" :D

I was under the impression that the 480i OSD would be overlayed onto the 1080i signal :confused:

Digital2004

01-11-06, 12:51 PM

hi
question: does the 3806 have independant bass management ? DENON.DE says so.

also, does it have REAL TIME (and not just presets!) EQs capacity ? i suppose yes since it has the AUDISSEY software.

Scott Smith

01-11-06, 02:49 PM

I was under the impression that the 480i OSD would be overlayed onto the 1080i signal :confused:

Nope
2 options the way I see it.

A: Get used to not having volume on the screen.
B: Get a 4806 instead. :D

nmMIT

01-12-06, 10:01 AM

I have performed test on both the Denon AV3806 and the Yamaha RX-V2600 in the Sound Advice \ Tweeters Showroom and in my Home Theater room. I personally prefer the Denon for the Sound and Quality build (Made in Japan 2yr labor and parts warranty) But the bottom line is sound.

Here is my question regarding Upconversion and scaling, If the new DVD players are upconvering to 720 and 1080 with HDMI connections (Why do you need the Receiver to do the same work. Won't the 720 or 1080 scaling go through the Denon HDMI connection and out HDMI to the HDTV?

If the New Cable / Sat boxes are coming out at 720 and higher conversion why would it not be the same thing?

I am not saying Yamaha is inferior. I am saying for my personal taste I find the 3806 to be incredible sound quality, full bass, bold midrange and tight treble. Sound is full, warm and detailed.

Before I make a purchase this important I want to know the trade offs. Sound or scaling. Would you take the Sound and use a converter box, connect direct to the TV. What is the difference in 720 and 1080 TV programs. DVD is more important to me. Thank you for you advice......

tokerblue

01-12-06, 10:32 AM

Here is my question regarding Upconversion and scaling, If the new DVD players are upconvering to 720 and 1080 with HDMI connections (Why do you need the Receiver to do the same work. Won't the 720 or 1080 scaling go through the Denon HDMI connection and out HDMI to the HDTV?
- I think that most people are sending the HDMI to the receiver for one of two reasons. To pass the audio or to use the receiver as a HDMI switcher in the event their TV only has one HDMI input.

s2silber

01-12-06, 11:33 AM

That's true. Strictly a convenience thing when it comes to the 3806. The higher-end models, however, will upconvert, rather than transcode, lesser analog signals such as a VCR or analog connections from a DVD recorder or other non-HDMI capable players.

Mista fingers

01-12-06, 01:03 PM

No. They don't have too because Denon protects them with its warrantee policy. They will knock the price down on last years model. If it suits your needs the 3805 can be had for lots less than retail.

There are authorized dealers you can find online that will ship this product for less than $1000 to your door. You just have to look for them and call.

nmMIT

01-12-06, 02:32 PM

s2silber and tokerblue Thank you for your answer.

You are saying if I have a DVD Player that will output 720 / 1080 by HDMI or a Cable box that will output 720 by HDMI to the Denon 3806 that I would not see any improve with a receiver that does full upconversion and scaling.

The only video improve would be with older equipment without HDMI out connection like VCR etc.

Thank agin.

tokerblue

01-12-06, 02:57 PM

You are saying if I have a DVD Player that will output 720 / 1080 by HDMI or a Cable box that will output 720 by HDMI to the Denon 3806 that I would not see any improve with a receiver that does full upconversion and scaling.
- That's correct. It's possible that the scaler in the higher Denons would do a better job than the scaler in the DVD player, but it shouldn't do a noticeably better job. As for the cable box, it shouldn't since 720p or 1080i would be the native resolution for the HD stations.

The only video improve would be with older equipment without HDMI out connection like VCR etc.
- The scaler should improve any 480i or lower resolution source.

tsax6010

01-12-06, 03:26 PM

- The scaler should improve any 480i or lower resolution source.

Assuming the scaler in the receiver is better than the one in the television. From what I have read, the Yamaha's are not using the best quality scaler.

Mike in Mass

01-12-06, 04:00 PM

I have been unable to pass the HDMI signal from my Samsung TS360 through to my Panny DLP. I of course had no issues with my Denon 1920 DVD player.

Has anyone succeeded in passing HDMI from a TS360 via the 3806? Any ideas for me?

Thanks

Mike

lawson1632

01-13-06, 01:14 AM

Hi,
Thanks for posting.
Can you clarify your statement below (I am a bit of a neophyte)

he bad: I'm sad to report that the 3806 does not synch up with the HDMI input from a Comcast/Motorola 6412 DVR either (DVI output converted to HDMI via DVI-HDMI cable). HDMI from the Denon 1920 DVD player works fine. Fortunately, my TV has two HDMI inputs, so no worries yet. However, such an expensive receiver should not have trouble synching up with garden variety (HDCP-enabled) DVRs. That's not acceptable.

Thanks.

I have been determined to get my 3806 working with Comcast. I've traded email with Motorola about HDCP relaying & they said I need to update my cable DVR (6412 mark III with HDMI out) to firmware 12.23 to fix this. Unfortunately I can not get the new bits myself & need to have Comcast come out to upgrade me. Comcast is clueless about the firmware....

HDCP was a protocol designed by a group of lawyers.

Sam S

01-13-06, 01:32 AM

I have a quick question for those using their 3806 with a Denon DVD-3910 via DL3:

When you use DSD MULTI DIRECT as your sound mode for 5.1 SACDs, does the receiver dissable all of your speaker distance and level settings? Obviously, the RoomEQ feature goes away, because that would necessitate DSD->PCM conversion.

Scott Smith

01-13-06, 08:59 AM

I have been determined to get my 3806 working with Comcast. I've traded email with Motorola about HDCP relaying & they said I need to update my cable DVR (6412 mark III with HDMI out) to firmware 12.23 to fix this. Unfortunately I can not get the new bits myself & need to have Comcast come out to upgrade me. Comcast is clueless about the firmware....

HDCP was a protocol designed by a group of lawyers.

The easy solution would be to run component from the Motorola box to the 3806 with optical audio until this HDCP stuff gets ironed out.
Yea HDMI is neat and clean but are you going to see the diffrence?
No.

QZ1

01-13-06, 04:39 PM

Can the HDMI ports on the Denon 3806 pass a 1080p signal?
I am just looking ahead in case I get a TV that can take 1080p inputs.
I think there are a few, with more to come this Fall.

tsax6010

01-13-06, 04:56 PM

Can the HDMI ports on the Denon 3806 pass a 1080p signal?
I am just looking ahead in case I get a TV that can take 1080p inputs.
I think there are a few, with more to come this Fall.

It is listed on the Denon UK website in black and white.

http://www.denon.co.uk/site/frames_...=detail&Pid=238

Click on "More information and product comparison" at the bottom of the page.

Under "Connections" it lists the following:

HDMI / DVI-D Inputs 2* up to 1080p / -
*HDMI 1.1 with 6ch DVD-Audio-Support

I found the specs on the UK site after finding a couple of UK reviews (or more appropriately - press statements) touting 1080p switching on Google. I have also been told the the German site has the specs too.

After finding specs about the Denon AVR-3806 on the UK website that touted it's ability to switch 1080p over HDMI, I talked to the marketing manager (via phone) of Denon USA. He told me that it was able to do 1080p, but they did not market it as such since there is little to no 1080p source material.

Denon has historically provided higher bandwith (100Mhz) for their component connections than most of their competitors. It was no suprise that they would have allowed for higher bandwith on HDMI as well. Since there is no upscaling capabilities on the Denon, there should be no HDMI chipset issues, only bandwith constraints would allow or prevent a 1080p signal to pass through.

Outside of what I have stated above, I have no physical way to test what Denon has claimed. It was enough to make up my mind on which unit to buy though...

I would guess that a good test would be someone who owns a 3806, HP 1080p DLP, and either a 1080p scaler or HTPC.

FWIW - Pioneer has told me that their 72 and 74 receivers will not be able to pass through a 1080p signal when one becomes available in the future.

Thank you for contacting Pioneer Electronics, Inc.

The highest level signal which the reciever [VSX-74TXVi] will be able to output trough HDMI is 1080i.

Progressive only 720p or 480p. 1080 only interlace.

Thank you

Yamaha had the same response on their V2600

The RX-V2600 receiver cannot pass a 1080p signal and will not be able to be software upgradable to the HDMI 1.2 standard.

If you have any more questions please feel free to contact us at our toll free Customer Support line. 1-800-292-2982 Hours: Monday Thru Friday 8 AM to 4 PM Pacific time.
Sincerely
Ken

ckelly33

01-13-06, 05:20 PM

I've opsted this question before but now that I've talked to Denon tech supporrt, my confusion is worse rather than better.

I'm using my 3806 to power 5.1 surround in my main room. I'm using my back speakers as zone 2. The only thing I can use zone 2 for is AM/FM/XM and that works great BUT I use a PC in my setup so that I can listen to MP3's and I have it travelling from the PC to the Denon via optical. But no matter how I selct my Zone 2 input as my PC (befre zone 1, after, whatever) I cannot get ANY sound out of Zone 2 from anything other than AM/FM/XM. The PC plays without incident in Zone 1.

Tech support at Denon told me that Zone 2 is configured only to play analog sources, not digital. Does anyone here have experience to the contrary? I thought XM was 100% digital? If it only plays one source then why allow my to select multiple sources for zone 2?

Can somebody help me with these questions?!?

Scott Smith

01-13-06, 07:30 PM

Tech support at Denon told me that Zone 2 is configured only to play analog sources, not digital. Does anyone here have experience to the contrary? I thought XM was 100% digital? If it only plays one source then why allow my to select multiple sources for zone 2?

Can somebody help me with these questions?!?

If you run analog from the PC to the Denon it will work on zone 2.
This wont effect zone 1 at all. Zone 2 will use the analog and the main will use the optical from the PC.
I believe but am not positive that the XM is analog before it gets to the 3806.

I'm not aware of anything in the Denon receiver line that accepts digital on zone 2.

I have now made it a habbit to connect analog and digital on every source when installing a Denon receiver.