That's the main HDMI/video feature that distinguishes the 2807 from the 3806. In addition, some -- though not all -- people in this thread, including myself, have reported problems passing an HDMI video signal from certain satellite and cable STB's through the 3806 and out to their monitors.
As noted earlier, depending how important these video issues are to you, the 3806 has better audio DACs, DenonLink, more power and other audio feature upgrades.

I have no such problems hooking up my toshiba hd dvd player and cablevision 8300hd dvr via HDMI to my 3806. Switches perfectly and works like a charm.

I was wondering if denon will offer a upgrade fro this reciever to do 1080p upconversion and 1.3 hdmi standard?

The product sheet on Denons website already states HDMi Video outputs 1080P. Does it not do 1080p?

J

Originally Posted by Peter740
I was wondering if denon will offer a upgrade fro this reciever to do 1080p upconversion and 1.3 hdmi standard?


That would be nice, but I am afraid we are going to have to buy a new one for those features....I hope I am wrong....

BTW, any help with my question in post 1493 would be very much appreciated!

Best,
James W Barron
snowtrooper1966@hotmail.com

I posted this as a separate thread and then found this thread. So I am posting here also to get some expert help...

I got a Denon AVR 3806 recently and I have a 7.1 speaker setup. But I am unable to get the 7.1 output working from the receiver.
The Denon has 10 speaker outputs FL, C, FR, SL-A, SR-A, SL-B, SR-B, SBL, SBR and Sub. This is what I did. I connected my speakers to the respective outputs and left the SL-B and SR-B empty. In the speaker config, I chose Surround B speakers to none and chose 2 speakers for Surround back speakers. But after doing this, when I go to the speaker test menu, I get no output from the surround back left and right speakers. In the power amp assign menu for surround back speakers, I have it assigned as surround back. Is there something else that I am missing? Is there some other setting that I have to do? I have read through the manual back and forth and I don't seem to get it to work. Please help.

PS: Please note that the wiring for surround back is correct and I get a 5.1 output (in those speakers) when I connect to surround back speakers as surrournd B speakers and setting the mode to A+B.

I got a Denon AVR 3806 recently and I have a 7.1 speaker setup. But I am unable to get the 7.1 output working from the receiver...If you're not using speakers B, then there are still some more things to review as far as I know:
1. Check the display on the receiver to see if it recognizes the subwoofer and the other 7 speakers.

2. Go to the Speaker Setup Menu, select #3, Channel Level, do a manual test tone and check the db level on the sub. Audessey made mine at -12db. I can still hear mine at -12db, but maybe yours is different.

3. What about checking the settings on the sub itself? You didn't mention if you did.

If you're not using speakers B, then there are still some more things to review as far as I know:
1. Check the display on the receiver to see if it recognizes the subwoofer and the other 7 speakers.

2. Go to the Speaker Setup Menu, select #3, Channel Level, do a manual test tone and check the db level on the sub. Audessey made mine at -12db. I can still hear mine at -12db, but maybe yours is different.

3. What about checking the settings on the sub itself? You didn't mention if you did.

1) The display on the receiver as the 7 speakers and the sub (when I choose the surround back speakers in the speaker setup menu).
2) I think you have misunderstood the issue. I am not having issues with the sub. I am having issues with the receiver not sending any output through the surround back speakers. The sub is working fine. For the SBL and SBR speakers, I also tried increasing the db level. That also doesn't seem to work.

If the back speakers are not working, I would just re-run the setup program again from the beginning. It automatically detects all speakers.

Let us know what happens after that.

Also check for loose cables. I knock speaker cables loose from the receiver when pulling it out of the cabinet and putting it back in. I often also find cables loose on the speakers themselves. Lame but true.

I am new to the thread and have read some of the reports re HDMI issues especially with motorola cable boxes. I am just hooking up my new 3806, and I just switched from satellite to cable, so I have a brand new motorola box with HDMI (supposedly their newest and latest and greatest box). If I hook the cable box up to the TV with HDMI connectors - no problem. If I try to go through the HDMI in/HDMI out to TV the following message appears: "The set top does not support HD content protected repeaters. Please use YPbPr outputs for your HK connection. Is this the HDCP issue to which some of the posts refer? Any way around it? What is practical difference if I use component for video and digital hook up for sound? Denon 1930CI DVD works fine through HDMI connections. Thanks much.

If you have one of the 3412/3416 boxes, I believe that problem is fixed in firmware v16.20. What's yours?

Has anyone actually tried to pass 1080p via HDMI yet? I know Denon indicates that it will work but, it would be nice if someone could try it to confirm (Please).

P.S. Denon's website indicates that the 3806 will do 1080p. However, the user manual indicates no.

Thanks,

Frank

Ftlee,

yeah, I would ask the exact same questions.
I'm not sure whether the 3806 carries 1080P signals.
I've also heard some people saying it does carry 1080P though.. who knows??

Furthermore, crappy manual states that the 3806 does not carry audio signals thru HDMI, but in fact it does (my dvd only has 1 HDMI cable to the AVR & then to to the TV and it's working flawlessly).

Let's wait for some conclusive answers though.

Cheers / Avliner.

It does pass 1080p signals, but remember that your monitor must be capable or receiving and displaying 1080p.

If you have one of the 3412/3416 boxes, I believe that problem is fixed in firmware v16.20. What's yours?
Thanks for the reply Epsilon. My box is DCT 3412. I guess I will try to get a 3414 and see if that works.

Does anyone know if you can run different speaker configurations from the same source through the 3806? I have a 7:1 setup at home; however, there are few movies that offer a discrete 6:1 sound track, let alone true 7:1. Still, I'd like to keep my back surround speakers up for my annual viewing of LOTR, but at other times assign that amp to the front speakers in bi-amp mode, both configurations run from my Denon 3910 player through the 3806. In other words, can that amp be switched between rear surrounds and the "B" settings? (And can you set up Audyssey for both?) Can this be done? Thanks.

My 3805 won't stay powered up. The green/red power light button flashes, then shuts down. Has anyone experienced this before? What's going on?

HDMI is much simpler since you can can pass audio and video over one cable. It works the same, juts that you only have two HDMI inputs with the 3806. I will only use it with HD DVDs and BluRay so I can get the 96khz pcm sound over HDMI. My other HDMI devices go through my VP30 which then is connected to the receiver over optical/coaxial for sound.
Oh and no need for CAT6. I've been running a gigabit network over CAT5e for 5 years.I cannot get the audio on my 3930 to work. I wanted to use denon link for audio and directly connect hdmi to my plasma. Here's my setup:

1. Denon 3806 - denon link from 3930
2. Denon 3930 - denon link to 3806, hdmi to plasma
3. Elite plasma - hdmi from 3930

I can't get audio, just for music, to work. Denon link on or off, I still can't get audio to work.

I tried disconnecting denon link and went hdmi from 3930 to 3806 and I still can't get audio to work.

I can watch movies, but obviously, my audio comes from the TV.

I know this has been covered somewhere, but I can't find it. I have something in the 3930 thread too. It has to be either my receiver or dvd.

Anyone with suggestions? - thanks

Edit: Disregard my post, I figured it out. I needed to select 'Auto' as an input source.

Ok... very puzzled. Just ran the room EQ for the first time and it says every one of my speakers is out of phase. Huh? I moved them around a bit but it didn't help. Ran it 5 times, nothing corrected it. I'm using the pre-outs to an Emotiva external amp. Very confused :(

That happens sometimes, especially with horizontally facing center channel speakers. If you're positive that the speaker is wired correctly, just disregard and move on. The EQ processing will continue correctly.

Oh, so if I say Skip then it still does the calibration? It didn't seem like it was. Is there anything I can do to verify that it's turned on?

Yes, it does. Once the whole process is finished, you can review your results in the "Parameters" screen of the setup menu. There's an explanation from an Audyseey engineer somewhere in this thread about why this happens with horizontally seated center channel speakers.

Apple Airport Express...

http://store.apple.com/1-800-MY-APPLE/WebObjects/AppleStore.woa/wo/1.RSLID?mco=96190CF2&nplm=M9470LL%2FA
jc9394,

It states that there's an optical connection, but I just see the analog mini connection. Do you have to order one with an optical connection?

I was planning to wire it like this if there's an optical connection:
1. PC to Airport Express via Ethernet
2. Airport Express to Receiver via optical

Also, I have a generic soundcard, so maybe I could take a different route by getting a better soundcard that has an optical output. This might be a cleaner route for a similar price.

jc9394,

It states that there's an optical connection, but I just see the analog mini connection. Do you have to order one with an optical connection?

I was planning to wire it like this if there's an optical connection:
1. PC to Airport Express via Ethernet
2. Airport Express to Receiver via optical


The Airport Express has a female port that has both analog stereo and digital optical (this was first used by Sony on its MDs I think).

My setup is Wireless and works well; ethernet should be fine, but there is a specific settting in the setup to enable audio over ethernet in slave-mode.

One advantage of the Airport Express as a sound card is that is it bit-exact (i.e. no other processing than you specify is applied).
For example if you rip a DTS CD and play it over, you will get multichannel out (and not noise).

The only down-point: you have to purchase de mini-Optical to TOS-Link cable separately.

The Airport Express has a female port that has both analog stereo and digital optical (this was first used by Sony on its MDs I think).

My setup is Wireless and works well; ethernet should be fine, but there is a specific settting in the setup to enable audio over ethernet in slave-mode.

One advantage of the Airport Express as a sound card is that is it bit-exact (i.e. no other processing than you specify is applied).
For example if you rip a DTS CD and play it over, you will get multichannel out (and not noise).
The only down-point: you have to purchase de mini-Optical to TOS-Link cable separately.

Just posting to confirm another Airport Ex wireless connection. I was amazed how simple it is!

Apple has the special TOSlink with mini connector cable, but it is $$
but from mono-price, for 7bucks, you can get:
PREMIUM 6FT Optical Toslink 5.0mm Cable and a
Toslink Female to Toslink Mini Male Adapter
and call it a day. Wireless into the AVR is a very cool set up to me.
(BTW I am running a mac G5 but that does not matter)

The Airport Express has a female port that has both analog stereo and digital optical (this was first used by Sony on its MDs I think).

My setup is Wireless and works well; ethernet should be fine, but there is a specific settting in the setup to enable audio over ethernet in slave-mode.

One advantage of the Airport Express as a sound card is that is it bit-exact (i.e. no other processing than you specify is applied).
For example if you rip a DTS CD and play it over, you will get multichannel out (and not noise).

The only down-point: you have to purchase de mini-Optical to TOS-Link cable separately.Thanks for the tip. I bought a sound card with optical out yesterday and it worked pretty good. The output was noticeably better than analog. But, the software is very buggy and I'm returning it. I've read all sound cards are like this.

I'm planning to get the 3806 as my first receiver with hdmi inputs/output.

I currently have two devices witth hdmi outputs. The first is the Toshiba A1, which I use for dvd and hd-dvd and run the hdmi straight to my pj. The second is a universal player that I use just for audio cd/dvd-a/scad and not for video.

Both units are using the 5.1 analog outputs to my current reciever (as well as the digital audio outputs) for the advanced resolution sound each are cabable of.

By connecating each unit to the Denon with the hdmi cable, and then running the hdmi out my pj, is it true that the Denon will capture the advanced resolution sound?

I've been reading the manual as well as this thread so I may find answer to the following, but can I assume that I can assign the cd (my Oppo 970 universal) and dvd (Toshiba A1 Hd-dvd) source inputs to each of the hdmi inputs so the Denon will play the audio? I can't find that the hdmican be assigned in the manual .

Thanks.

Shelly

The sound is decoded in the HDA1 and sent via HDMI to the Denon. Works great. The inputs can be assigned, yes.

My setup using the 3806 involves a main zone (5.1 home theater) and another room (zone 2) consisting of an old pair of ADS M-9 tower speakers. I play CDs through zone 2 with no problems, but when I try to play Digital (cable) music, no sound plays through at all. I suspect that this is because my CD player connects to the AVR with analog cables, while the digital music channels connect to the AVR via optical (digital) audio cables from the Motorola 6412 set top box. Is my assumption correct that zone 2 cannot pass a digital source, or should I be able to listen to digital cable sound over zone 2?

You are correct, Zone 2 cannot pass a digital source... I think ;).

I second that emotion. Zone 2 is strictly for analogue sources. The only way to hear your STB's audio would be to add an analogue connection to your existing digital and then make sure the AVR's analogue input is engaged when listening in Zone 2. You can toggle the input back to digital when you're listening in the Main zone.

Just posting to confirm another Airport Ex wireless connection. I was amazed how simple it is!

Apple has the special TOSlink with mini connector cable, but it is $$
but from mono-price, for 7bucks, you can get:
PREMIUM 6FT Optical Toslink 5.0mm Cable and a
Toslink Female to Toslink Mini Male Adapter
and call it a day. Wireless into the AVR is a very cool set up to me.
(BTW I am running a mac G5 but that does not matter)Other than online, where do you think I can find the toslink to mini adapter locally?

Edit: Forget about my above question. However, I don't have a wireless router and don't want to buy one. Wondering if I can use the Airport Express as an ethernet to optical adpater connected as such:

1. PC connected to Airport Express via Ethernet
2. Airport Express connected to 3806 via toslink + toslink-mini adapter

Locally, Radio Shack would be the first place I would check out, then Comp USA, BB and CC.

Locally, Radio Shack would be the first place I would check out, then Comp USA, BB and CC.I bought all the stuff and the airport express doesn't work on my computer because I don't have a wireless router. I think I'm going with the sound card w/optical out route.

Hey Guys,

Quick Question. Is the denon 3806 capable of doing 6.1 surround? I dont have 7.1, only 2 center channels.

if so, where would i hook up the center rear channel? I tried looking at the manual, but it seems to focus only on 5.1 and 7.1

thanks

Hey Guys,

Quick Question. Is the denon 3806 capable of doing 6.1 surround? I dont have 7.1, only 2 center channels.

if so, where would i hook up the center rear channel? I tried looking at the manual, but it seems to focus only on 5.1 and 7.1
I don't know how you missed that. In the speaker connections section on p. 7, there is a diagram with a note saying "When using only one surround back speaker, connect it to the left channel".

I don't know how you missed that. In the speaker connections section on p. 7, there is a diagram with a note saying "When using only one surround back speaker, connect it to the left channel".


Err, i see it now. Thanks, I really appreciate it.

Hi there. Finally trying to hook up my "new" 3806 (actually, it's a year old, but the renovation of my third floor took much longer than anticipated). My deal seems simplicity itself: a Toshiba HD-DVD player and an HD DBS receiver, both connected to the Denon via HDMI, and the Denon connected via HDMI to a Panasonic TD-50PHD8UK via the appropriate blade. Three cables, no fuss, no muss. So far so good, right? Except...I don't get any picture on the TV!

I've verified that the blade and TV are working by going directly from the DVD player to the Panny. All is good. But when I plug the TV into the Denon, nada. I can't see the menus onscreen to run the "auto setup", let alone actually switch either source out to the display.

I'm sure I'm doing something really simple wrong. I have tried to RTFM, but either I'm really, really, tired, or it's not the most well-written or organized thing I've ever encountered.

Any assistance/advice would be much appreciated.

Thanks for your patience, and your help.

Cheers.

dshlapak

The OSD is output at 480i which I'm fairly sure is a resolution the Panasonic's HDMI blade doesn't accept. You need to be able to see the OSD to assign the HDMI Inputs to the correct source Inputs e.g HDMI 1 - DVD etc etc. You can do this from the Front Panel display if you need to though.

I've verified that the blade and TV are working by going directly from the DVD player to the Panny. All is good. But when I plug the TV into the Denon, nada. I can't see the menus onscreen to run the "auto setup", let alone actually switch either source out to the display.

Cheers.

I purchased a 5" b&w tv from Radio Shack to use near my couch for all onscreen displays from all my sources without having to even turn my pj or receiver on.

Each source, including the receiver, has a composite video cable running to an inexpensive 4 in 1 out analog switchbox (again from RS) which sets on a shelf of my component rack. From the switchbox, I run a 25' cable to the tv. I can manually with a button push chose whatever source I want (or the receiver itself) and then run the menus with the tv on my lap.

May not work for everyone but it solved my problem.

Shelly

I purchased a 5" b&w tv from Radio Shack to use near my couch for all onscreen displays from all my sources without having to even turn my pj or receiver on.


Well, the $20 RS TV did the trick for me, too. My wife even likes the "retro" look of the tiny, B&W set on top of the A/V console-says we'll tell everyone that the whole system runs through that. Much obliged for the great advice.

So, I've got the DBS working, and I've got picture from the Toshiba -A1 HD-DVD player, too. But, I can't get sound out of the latter. I did, for a few minutes, but without picture; now I've got the opposite problem. I'm pulling my hair out--not that I have much to begin with--but I swear I've got everything set right on both sides. Any further help?

Thanks.

Cheers.

dshlapak

The OSD is output at 480i which I'm fairly sure is a resolution the Panasonic's HDMI blade doesn't accept. You need to be able to see the OSD to assign the HDMI Inputs to the correct source Inputs e.g HDMI 1 - DVD etc etc. You can do this from the Front Panel display if you need to though.

Just run the OSD cable to any unused video input on your TV. Any RCA cable you have laying around is fine. In my case that's video in #5. Anytime I want adjust settings, I click to video #5 on my remote and I'm ready to go.

Nick

Just run the OSD cable to any unused video input on your TV. Any RCA cable you have laying around is fine. In my case that's video in #5. Anytime I want adjust settings, I click to video #5 on my remote and I'm ready to go.

Nick
That's exactly what I do as well, even have my Harmony programmed as a function/activity for it.

I have a 3806 receiver that's been running my system for the past several months. This week I will be getting a 720p projector and I want to know how to hook things up.

I have a D* HR20 HD Satellite receiver that has an HDMI output and my projector also has an HDMI input. My question revolves around the best way to hook up my projector. Should I run the signal straight from the satellite receiver to the projector or should I run it through the 3806? My understanding is that the 3806 won't pass through a 1080 signal but I'm wondering if it will diminish the signal if I'm just running the 720p.

Thanks for any advice.

Paul

I have a 3806 receiver that's been running my system for the past several months. This week I will be getting a 720p projector and I want to know how to hook things up.

I have a D* HR20 HD Satellite receiver that has an HDMI output and my projector also has an HDMI input. My question revolves around the best way to hook up my projector. Should I run the signal straight from the satellite receiver to the projector or should I run it through the 3806? My understanding is that the 3806 won't pass through a 1080 signal but I'm wondering if it will diminish the signal if I'm just running the 720p.

Thanks for any advice.

Paul
The 3806 will pass a 1080i signal, in fact, it should pass 1080p. Some source devices have trouble with repeater style devices like HDMI AVRs. I've never tried a HR20 through the 3806 but it should work.

As far as what signal to output from the HR20 I would try both and see what looks best. The 720p projector will probably have a better deinterlacer/scaler than the HR20. In fact, doesn't the HR20 have native output? If so, I would set it for that and see how the projector handles it.

How many HDMI sources do you have? If you don't need the 3806 to switch HDMI sources I would just send the HR20 video output directly to the projector, but I'm old school in that I believe the simplest path from point A to point B provides the best performance and reliability.

Is there a way to have the on-sceen display appear on TV mode? In other words, I have the receiver connected to input #2 and my DVD-3930 connected to input #1 on the TV. However, I want the volume bars to appear as I watch a DVD or a television broadcast. The only way for me to see my volume level or even the OSD setup menu is to switch my TV to input #2. This is very inconvenient.

One advantage of the Airport Express as a sound card is that is it bit-exact (i.e. no other processing than you specify is applied).
For example if you rip a DTS CD and play it over, you will get multichannel out (and not noise).I'm finding that using a sound card is much easier and that a good card allows bit-exact recording and playback. The sound quality is more clear than my 3930. But, this is due to flexibility to further adjust the EQ on the PC. I also realized to stay away from Sound Blaster cards. They're similar to Monster; over-hyped and under performing.

Is there a way to have the on-sceen display appear on TV mode? In other words, I have the receiver connected to input #2 and my DVD-3930 connected to input #1 on the TV. However, I want the volume bars to appear as I watch a DVD or a television broadcast. The only way for me to see my volume level or even the OSD setup menu is to switch my TV to input #2. This is very inconvenient.

I have not tested this myself and since I assume you have scoured the manual and it's not addressed there, my understanding is that to get an overlay of the of the OSD, you need to run the video to through the receiver and have an HDMI connection from the receiver to the display. Bear in mind I am not 100% sure about this but you won't break anything by trying.

Nick

I have not tested this myself and since I assume you have scoured the manual and it's not addressed there, my understanding is that to get an overlay of the of the OSD, you need to run the video to through the receiver and have an HDMI connection from the receiver to the display. Bear in mind I am not 100% sure about this but you won't break anything by trying.

NickYes, the manual doesn't cover it at this level of detail. I should add that I'm using S-video from the receiver to the TV and HDMI from the DVD to the TV. Your guess sounds logical and I would think that route would work. Good idea. I only have one hdmi cable (DVD -> TV), so I can't give it a try. I bet many people have this setup and could chime in.

Is it correct that I'm reading the power consumption to be a whopping 852 watts? The manual states "7.1A" on 120V, which I assume is equal to 852 watts. This will hog up my power conditioner.

I'm finding that using a sound card is much easier and that a good card allows bit-exact recording and playback. The sound quality is more clear than my 3930. But, this is due to flexibility to further adjust the EQ on the PC. I also realized to stay away from Sound Blaster cards. They're similar to Monster; over-hyped and under performing.

Yes indeed.

If you don't need the wireless feature, and have cabling long enough to run from the PC to the Denon, a bit-exact sound card will be advantageous: with Airport Express you will have to use iTunes (which is good for me, but some people don't like it). more over, on windows PC, you would have trouble doing AV other than through iTunes.

A little bit of google will give some results:
http://www.hydrogenaudio.org/forums/lofiversion/index.php/t29431.html

it's also a good idea to check M-Audio products.

Will the 3806 simply pass through either 720p or 1080i without doing any upconverting?

If so, is there a setup menu option to turn any upconversion Off or is this the default?

My sources output 720p and 1080i and I'd rather have them do any upconverting rather than the receiver.

thanks.

Shelly

Will the 3806 simply pass through either 720p or 1080i without doing any upconverting?

If so, is there a setup menu option to turn any upconversion Off or is this the default?

My sources output 720p and 1080i and I'd rather have them do any upconverting rather than the receiver.

thanks.

Shelly

The 3806 does not upconvert anyway and it will pass through your 720p/1080i

Is it correct that I'm reading the power consumption to be a whopping 852 watts? The manual states "7.1A" on 120V, which I assume is equal to 852 watts. This will hog up my power conditioner.


I thought the same thing, but at a pretty good level with 2 subs running also my Belkin Power Center shows between 1.5 to 2.5 amps draw.

I thought the same thing, but at a pretty good level with 2 subs running also my Belkin Power Center shows between 1.5 to 2.5 amps draw.Thanks for that info. 7.1A sounds like a max number anyways. Nice to know what it does normally.

I just printed out the manual and am trying to read this thread but I have some quick questions that I haven't found answers to yet.

(1) Using hdmi, is it possible to use both side and rear speakers for 7.1 sound with high rez audio from scad/dvd-a/Dolby +, Dolby True Surround)?

(2) After the Audysey calibration, is it still possible to change speaker level settings?

(3) Can separate speaker level settings be stored per Source Input? Or are there multiple Audysey settings from which to chose so that one can be readjusted to my speaker level preferrence?

These questions petain to my preference for Movies to have the back surrounds boosted by +4 in my large room, and to compensate for the LFE of high rez audio by boosting it 10db.

Tanks.

Shelly

With the AVR-3806, the LFE boost for multichannel inputs will be dealt with separately and seamlessly in the "LFE" Surround Parameter (for digital PCM input) or the "SW Level" setting (for multichannel analogue input). You don't need to mess with speaker levels for that alone.

According to the manual, Pro Logic IIx Music and Cinema can be applied to a 5.1 PCM or DSD input from DVD-Audio or SACD. I assume the same applies to a 5.1 input from a HD DVD unit. It can't do any processing on 176.4kHz or 192kHz PCM stereo though.

According to the "Future-proof receiver" thread, all HDMI Denons can accept and process 7.1 inputs over HDMI.

With the AVR-3806, the LFE boost for multichannel inputs will be dealt with separately and seamlessly in the "LFE" Surround Parameter (for digital PCM input) or the "SW Level" setting (for multichannel analogue input). You don't need to mess with speaker levels for that alone.

According to the manual, Pro Logic IIx Music and Cinema can be applied to a 5.1 PCM or DSD input from DVD-Audio or SACD. I assume the same applies to a 5.1 input from a HD DVD unit. It can't do any processing on 176.4kHz or 192kHz PCM stereo though.

According to the "Future-proof receiver" thread, all HDMI Denons can accept and process 7.1 inputs over HDMI.

That's very good news for me to hear and I appreciate your quick reply.

But what about my #3 question (3) Can separate speaker level settings be stored per Source Input? Or are there multiple Audysey settings from which to chose so that one can be readjusted to my speaker level preferrence?

If I can store separate speaker levels per input, the 3806 would have it all for me.

Thanks. Shelly

With the AVR-3806, the LFE boost for multichannel inputs will be dealt with separately and seamlessly in the "LFE" Surround Parameter (for digital PCM input) or the "SW Level" setting (for multichannel analogue input). You don't need to mess with speaker levels for that alone.

According to the manual, Pro Logic IIx Music and Cinema can be applied to a 5.1 PCM or DSD input from DVD-Audio or SACD. I assume the same applies to a 5.1 input from a HD DVD unit. It can't do any processing on 176.4kHz or 192kHz PCM stereo though. .

Looking in the manual, I cannot find any mention of PLiix being applied to 5.1 PCM of DSD from DVD-Audio or SACD. What page?

Also the LFE surround parameter suggests keeping LFE level at 0 for DTS et al movie and changing it to -10 for DTS music. Does this mean that the +10 boost is at the 0 level?

Bottom of the table on page 94, in my on-line copy. Shows the surround modes "MULTI IN + PLIIx CINEMA" and "...MUSIC".

And yes, if a receiver offers "-10dB" and "0dB" for LFE, then they're following THX guidelines. Their "0dB" means apply a +10dB boost relative to the other channels, and they denote it "0dB" because it's the correct setting (at least for DD/DTS). "-10dB" means no boost, so you'll have LFE 10dB too weak, assuming the source material's correctly encoded.

Bottom of the table on page 94, in my on-line copy. Shows the surround modes "MULTI IN + PLIIx CINEMA" and "...MUSIC".

And yes, if a receiver offers "-10dB" and "0dB" for LFE, then they're following THX guidelines. Their "0dB" means apply a +10dB boost relative to the other channels, and they denote it "0dB" because it's the correct setting (at least for DD/DTS). "-10dB" means no boost, so you'll have LFE 10dB too weak, assuming the source material's correctly encoded.On a slightly related note, does anyone here think all the Denon Dolby DSP modes sound worse than 7ch stereo? You lose a lot of the things you hear in 7ch stereo. Even with 7ch stereo, I don't think Denon makes a good receiver for movies when I compare it to the cinema DSP modes on my old sony. This is one of the things I'm most disappointed about when I chose Denon over the other brands.

Bottom of the table on page 94, in my on-line copy. Shows the surround modes "MULTI IN + PLIIx CINEMA" and "...MUSIC".

And yes, if a receiver offers "-10dB" and "0dB" for LFE, then they're following THX guidelines. Their "0dB" means apply a +10dB boost relative to the other channels, and they denote it "0dB" because it's the correct setting (at least for DD/DTS). "-10dB" means no boost, so you'll have LFE 10dB too weak, assuming the source material's correctly encoded.

Thanks for the clarification of the LFE setting.

And also for the table with the other information. I found it. Thanks.

But I thought that the Multi Ch In referred to the analog multi channel inputs. Does in also apply to the hdmi?

Have you sucessfully used DPL IIx with the hdmi audio from a hd-dvd or sacd/dvd'a player?

Shelly

No, the analogue input is "EXT IN". You can't do any processing on that.

I haven't used this receiver, or any other Denon receiver, I'm just reading the manuals and other people's experiences, so I'd take anything I say with a pinch of salt :) I do try to make sure I think I know what I'm talking about.

I have HDMI going from the Denon 3806 to my SXRD TV. The Cable in HDMI1 is working fine, however, the DVD is connected to HDMI2 and there is no sound. Any ideas why this is not working?

Is it correct that I'm reading the power consumption to be a whopping 852 watts? The manual states "7.1A" on 120V, which I assume is equal to 852 watts. This will hog up my power conditioner.

You are usually using less than 5% of that. No worries.

Nick

I just upgraded to a z5 (from a z4) and the HDMI (going thru 3806 from component Sat Receiver converted to HDMI) images are being projected in a orange shadow ghost like shadows (hard to describe, but something is up)...I didn't have any problems with the z4. It's not the cables...component thru the receiver is fine and HDMI direct from the A1 to the z5 projector is also fine. I'm just wondering if something is wrong with the projector and/or there is a compatability issue with the z5 and 3806? When I try going from A1 to z5 thru 3806 via HDMI switching , I get no HDMI link error and no picture from the A1?? At first I thought something was wrong with the 3806, but I switched back to the z4 and the HDMI from A1 thru 3806 is fine?? It's making me think the 3806 HDMI switching is not compatable with the z5?? and/or someting is up with my z5...or I don't have a setting right in the z5? Does anyone else have this combo? Have you had any problems? The place I bought the z5 from is closed until Mon... Any help would be appreciated. Thanks, Bill

From reading various threads on this and other forums, I am left with the unfortunate impression that HDMI switching can often be problematic. The only reliable hdmi connection remains going directly from the source to the monitor. Of course this will be a problem if you need the hdmi to go to the receiver for the purpose of decoding audio, or if you are running out of hdmi ports on the monitor.

No problem for me. I run my HD DVD player through my 3806 for the audio then it goes to my VP50. The VP50 also has 3 other HDMI devices connected and then that goes to my Samsung HLR 1080P DLP set over HDMI. I haven't seen any major problems with HDMI switching. And waht few problems I['ve had are releated to thetwo HDTiVos I have. Sometime when you switch to them instead of locking onto the signal in a half second like normal it will take 3 or 4 seconds to lock onto the signal. Once it's locked on it stays locked on. And the HD DVD player and my Sony 975 DVD player are solid over the HDMI connection.

First of all thanks to everyone who has posted here. I think I have read just about ALL of the posts here and they have been very helpful in me weighing my options of either keeping my existing Sony STR-DA4ES receiver or "upgrading" to the 3806.

I recently finally got a Denon 3910 player, which I had been lusting after since they came out and boy is it ever nice for music. I still have not played any DVD Videos on it, except for a bonus video of the doors on one of the discs from their new box set and that I sent to a 5' b&w set I keep near my listening chair top view the DVD-A options when I don't want to fire up the projector.

So, now that I have the option of using Denon Link, iLink and hdmi, I thought it might be a good time to look into a receiver upgrade.

I have the chance to purchase a 3806 from a dealer for $920 out the door. This would be a brand new model with the factory warranty.

Does this still sound like a good deal? Do you think I would be better off waiting until after the holidays when the price on this or better models might drop?

Thanks

I have the chance to purchase a 3806 from a dealer for $920 out the door. This would be a brand new model with the factory warranty.

Does this still sound like a good deal? Do you think I would be better off waiting until after the holidays when the price on this or better models might drop?

ThanksI believe the 06's are going to be 'last year's" model. That's why the price is low. I got mine last month for $899. The 4806 is selling for $1,999 where I am.

Well, I just couldn't resist. I have everything hooked-up and listened to some of a DVD-A disc using the Ext. In. I now need to update my Denon 3910 to Denon Link 3rd Edition.

Can you use Denon Link for one multi channel souce and Multi for another? I have some quad equipment I'd like to hook up as well. Sorry if this has already been covered.

And just to repeat what has already been said, set-up is a pain and the remote kind of blows.

Newbie here... I have a friend that recommended the Denon. So last night I picked up the 3806 at Bestbuy for $799. I'll be connecting it to a HELIOS H4000 dvd and a Panasonic TH-58PX60U. We'll see how it goes. The 58" is replacing a 42" business unit Panasonic. I'm going all HDMI from COX cable to 3806, DVD to 3806, 3806 to the Plasma. I have Klipsh speakers for the sound. I'll let this 3806 group know how it goes. Great to have you here for support. Reading all these post from here and others helped to decide.
Mike of Rhode Island

I really don't know the difference between AAC and DD/DTS, but it looks like my 3806 will not accept AAC signals as dolby digital or dts. Is that correct?

Which output terminals in the back to connect headphone amp into for output of all sounds from different sources. Seems I can't get certain sources to feed the headphone amp. TIA

(2) After the Audysey calibration, is it still possible to change speaker level settings?

After Audessey calibration and when using one of the modes in Audessey the front panel light will be green. On selecting the channel select button on the remote you can change the individual speaker outputs and if you change them from the Audessey settings the Auddesy light will be red instead of green letting you know that the Audessey settings have been overriden. Methinks..

Hi,
I am thinking of upgrading from my current Denon 2805 to the 3806. I understand that the 3806 does not upconvert 480i signals to 480p over HDMI so if one has a TV that cannot do 480i over HDMI this can be an issue. The question I have for the group is that if I am already running component cables to my TV (along with the HDMI cable) can I use the component cable for things that do 480i (the denon setup for instance)? I don't have any device that produces a 480i signal. The only thing producing this will be the denon setup.

thanks,

I thought I read somewhere that the 3806 can only output 24bit/192kHz in 2.1 channels via a digital input. I set the avr at both 2.1 & 7.1 and tried to pass through 7.1 channels from my PC sound card at 24/192 but I only get 2.1 channels. Does anyone know if this is true?

It says in the manual that it can handle a 6 channel 24bit 96khz signal or a 2 channel 24bit 192Khz signal.

Which output terminals in the back to connect headphone amp into for output of all sounds from different sources. Seems I can't get certain sources to feed the headphone amp. TIA
When you select a source that is connected only to a digital audio input (coaxial or optical), the pre-amp output is the only analog audio output on the back that will have sound; the other analog audio outputs on the back won't have any sound.

OK, major embarassment time, but I finally have my entire rack as close to perfect as I'm going to get it until someone invents a hybrid DVDA/SACD/CD/DVD/HDDVD/Bluray deck, and I'm sure this has been asked a million times but I cant find it:

I have 2 optical inputs and the 6 channel analogue input connected.

One is set on CD, one is on DVD, one is on DBS.

If I use the knob on the front left of the 3806 I can switch between these three inputs no sweat, and in fact have been doing that for the last 6 months I've owned it, because I cant figure out how to do it with the remote! On the remote, if I hit input, it selects the different sub inputs for each of those, so it goes to DTS, pure digital, auto whatever. All I want to do is switch between these MAIN headings. How the heck do I do that. The manual is a mess!

Sam

All you have to do is press the silver buttons(they have numbers on them and the input names) on the lower part of the remote to change the input. Although an easier way is to get a HArmony remote. Which is what I use. Then you just hit one button and everything changes to the correct input.

I guess you were trying to change the input with the wrong part of the remote. I did the same thing at first but a quick read of the manual explained it.

OK, major embarassment time, but I finally have my entire rack as close to perfect as I'm going to get it until someone invents a hybrid DVDA/SACD/CD/DVD/HDDVD/Bluray deck, and I'm sure this has been asked a million times but I cant find it:

I have 2 optical inputs and the 6 channel analogue input connected.

One is set on CD, one is on DVD, one is on DBS.

If I use the knob on the front left of the 3806 I can switch between these three inputs no sweat, and in fact have been doing that for the last 6 months I've owned it, because I cant figure out how to do it with the remote! On the remote, if I hit input, it selects the different sub inputs for each of those, so it goes to DTS, pure digital, auto whatever. All I want to do is switch between these MAIN headings. How the heck do I do that. The manual is a mess!

SamThe instructions, page 27 #1, tells you to hit the Input button first, but it doesn't clearly tell you when you need to or need not press it. If you just have a main zone, then just make sure the Input is on Auto and press the silver number buttons as aaronwt stated. You don't ever need to hit the Input button once it's selected at Auto. Prior to all that, you have to make sure you press the Amp button, in the upper left, to tell the receiver that you want to control the receiver, not a different component like the DVD player.

Ah of course, thanks!

I just got my 3806 last night. Got everything hooked up and powered it on. Went though the menus to assign audio and video inputs, etc.

Went to test it by watching part of a DVD and a few minutes in the front panel display went dark. I assumed that it was supposed to. But I can't find any thing in the manual about it and I can't find a setting that will allow me to change the behaviour.

I cycled power and it came back on for a while, but once I stopped playing with it, a few minutes later it went dark again. Should it be doing this? ANyone else see this behaviour?

Also, is there a way to assign a Surround B channel to bi-amp the center instead of the fronts?

Thanks,

--Doug

The panel goes dark in Pure Direct mode.

I turned off 'Pure Direct' by pressing the Direct/Stereo button and it stayed dark. In fact it cut video (it was on the TV input at the time) until I went back to Pure Direct. I think I've got a bum unit. Great.

Check whether your player is in Pure Direct mode. Also, you may have something set that defaults to Pure Direct.

Ok I have recently bought a RtoR and have it hooked up to my rec'r - now I checked the manaual and can't figure out how to record from my Cd player to my tape deck ...any help out there ?

thx

Ok I have recently bought a RtoR and have it hooked up to my rec'r - now I checked the manaual and can't figure out how to record from my Cd player to my tape deck ...any help out there ?
Is the CD player connected via analog, digital, or both?
Is the tape deck connected via analog, digital, or both?

For recordings, the 3806 allows digital-to-digital or analog-to-analog. It does not allow digital-to-analog or analog-to-digital.

Anybody getting uncompressed HDMI audio from their BluRay player thru the 3806? Any special set u p required? I've been using a Toslink Optical connection so far with my Samsung BluRay player. TIA.

Is the CD player connected via analog, digital, or both?
Is the tape deck connected via analog, digital, or both?

For recordings, the 3806 allows digital-to-digital or analog-to-analog. It does not allow digital-to-analog or analog-to-digital.

The CD player is connected both ways while the RtoR is connected analog only.

The CD player is connected both ways while the RtoR is connected analog only.

Well I called denon tech support and we figured it out basically following the info on page 60 in the manual. You use the zone 2/3/rec out button - go to zone 2 and rotate the function knob to source select and choose the CD. Whew can't help but yearn for the old days of rec out buttons on this one.....at least it works ! Something that I thought would be so simple.

I have a HDMI connection between the HD-A1 to the 3806....and HDMI out from 3806 to a 1080p HDTV....but I can't get video or audio to work. Strangely, cable box and xbox work fine (component in - hdmi out)

Anyone know how to fix this??

I've checked my HDMI assign in settings...and they look right.


Thanks for the help.

I have a HDMI connection between the HD-A1 to the 3806....and HDMI out from 3806 to a 1080p HDTV....but I can't get video or audio to work. Strangely, cable box and xbox work fine (component in - hdmi out)

Anyone know how to fix this??

I've checked my HDMI assign in settings...and they look right.
Welcome to the club. If you scan this thread from its inception, you'll notice that there have been many complaints about the Denon AVR 3806 failing to pass an HDMI signal from several different cable/satellite STB's out to monitors; some work, some don't. However, I don't think there have been any reports of the receiver not passing HDMI signals from DVD players. In my case, it won't pass a signal from my DirecTV HR10-250 -- even after I swapped out the AVR -- but it does pass HDMI signals from a couple of different DVD players I've tried.

Two part question:
(1) Can someone having the following setup verify if you get the onscreen display to overlay the picture on the TV when watching DVD or an over-air broadcast?

DVD to 3806 via HDMI
3806 to TV via HDMI


(2) By using 2 HDMI cables instead of running HDMI directly from the DVD to the TV, can you bypass the Faroujda video processor in the 3806 and use the processor on the DVD player? I assume you have to go into the "Video Setup" menu and turn off "Video Convert", but I need someone to verify this to be the proper steps. Denon support is non-existant since I was on hold for over 20mins. I have a 3930CI which has a better processor. Further, it's more direct and cheaper to use 1 HDMI cable. However, it's bothersome to constantly have to switch inputs on my TV to view the volume level on my receiver. I'm hoping the onscreen overlay will resolve my problems even at the cost of another HDMI cable.


By the way, here's Denon's new OSG GUI...






OK...it's Sony.

I have a HDMI connection between the HD-A1 to the 3806....and HDMI out from 3806 to a 1080p HDTV....but I can't get video or audio to work. Strangely, cable box and xbox work fine (component in - hdmi out)

Anyone know how to fix this??

I've checked my HDMI assign in settings...and they look right.


Thanks for the help.

Hey there,
First, make sure you have the latest firmware upgrade for the HD-A1. Connect it it up to the internet and download directly.

Beyond that, the only issue I ever had with no video\audio was a loose hdmi cable. It's very easy for the cable to pivot slightly on the back of the HD-A1. if it's crooked at all... no go. Also, it can be particular about the cable not being crooked while booting up, adjusting the cable after it's powered on is not a good troubleshooting technique.

Good luck!
J

Okay boys and girls, I have a PS3 and want to take advantage of the advanced audio decoding (sans DTS MA until an update) and PCM tracks from Blu-Ray discs.

The first thing is I bought X-Men 3. Soon (hopefully) I'll be able to decode its 6.1 discrete lossless track. According to reports it's a 24 bit/48 kHz recording, which will be de-compressed to 24/48, 6.1 PCM. Does anyone know how many channels and what bit depth (PCM) this Denon will accept over HDMI? Is it also smart enough to take the mono back channel from PCM sources and output it over both back speakers?

Also, SA-CD's can be internally converted to 6 channel, 24 bit/176.4 kHz PCM (and rumors say 192 kHz soon too). Will the Denon accept this as well?

If not, how is the Pioneer Elite 84TXSi in regards to multi-channel PCM?

Dan

Two part question:
(1) Can someone having the following setup verify if you get the onscreen display to overlay the picture on the TV when watching DVD or an over-air broadcast?

DVD to 3806 via HDMI
3806 to TV via HDMI


(2) By using 2 HDMI cables instead of running HDMI directly from the DVD to the TV, can you bypass the Faroujda video processor in the 3806 and use the processor on the DVD player? I assume you have to go into the "Video Setup" menu and turn off "Video Convert", but I need someone to verify this to be the proper steps. Denon support is non-existant since I was on hold for over 20mins. I have a 3930CI which has a better processor. Further, it's more direct and cheaper to use 1 HDMI cable. However, it's bothersome to constantly have to switch inputs on my TV to view the volume level on my receiver. I'm hoping the onscreen overlay will resolve my problems even at the cost of another HDMI cable.


By the way, here's Denon's new OSG GUI...






OK...it's Sony.

Cool, I like the new OSD GUI from Denon, where can I can the firmware download? :D

Back to your question #1. The only time I am able to get the onscreen display to overlay the picture on the TV when watching DVD is with the following connections
*DVD S-video or composite to 3806
*3806 HDMI to TV

I'm really hoping for the ability to see onscreen display with your proposed setup (i.e, dvd hdmi to 3806 and then 3806 hdmi to TV) since all my equipments are in the remote closet.
Anyone know if this can be done please chime in.

Yes, this can be done. I use the HDMI connections. As long as the TV is in 480i mode you can see the OSD overlayed.

My problem is I never run the TV in that mode. :rolleyes:


Cool, I like the new OSD GUI from Denon, where can I can the firmware download? :D

Back to your question #1. The only time I am able to get the onscreen display to overlay the picture on the TV when watching DVD is with the following connections
*DVD S-video or composite to 3806
*3806 HDMI to TV

I'm really hoping for the ability to see onscreen display with your proposed setup (i.e, dvd hdmi to 3806 and then 3806 hdmi to TV) since all my equipments are in the remote closet.
Anyone know if this can be done please chime in.

Yes, this can be done. I use the HDMI connections. As long as the TV is in 480i mode you can see the OSD overlayed.

My problem is I never run the TV in that mode. :rolleyes:I finally got through to Denon today and that's what they said. I now realize that this has been discussed many times here, but I never knew what all the talk was at the time.

Yes, this can be done. I use the HDMI connections. As long as the TV is in 480i mode you can see the OSD overlayed.

My problem is I never run the TV in that mode. :rolleyes:

I'm also running HDMI (DVD, HDMI--> 3806, HDMI to TV) connections, the only thing I see is the OSD overlayed but not for everything. For example, I can't see the volume displayed on the TV and I can't see the on-the-fly speakers/sub settings on the TV.

Are you saying once you set the TV to 480i resolution, you can see all the above?
If so, I need to figure out how to set my TV resolution to 480i then.

Is anyone using the Toshiba A2 with the 3806? I have the A1 and A2 both connected by HDMI. With the A1 the 3806 always shows it is receiving 96Khz pcm but with the A2 it only shows 48Khz. Some other people with the A2 and other receivers says its shows 96hz on their receivers. So I'm wondering if there is a problem with my A2 or becasue the 3806 has HDMI 1.2 if that causing a probem with the A2 which has HDMI 1.2a.
I have a 2807 boxed up that I'll pull out to see if the result is the same.

I have a PS3 connected to a Denon 3806 via HDMI and have been shopping a replacement for my HDTV. In particular, I've been considering a monitor that can handle 1080p/24. I've found a panel (PRO-HD1) I'm interested in which accepts 1080p/24 and upconverts it to 1080p/72 thereby eliminated the need for 3:2 pulldown AND the resulting video judder.

MY QUESTION IS THIS: If I feed the Denon 3806 1080p/24 via HDMI, once it passes through the Denon, what video is output & therefore received by the panel? Is it still 1080p/24 or will it have been converted to 1080p/60?

Clear as mud?

Does anyone know what, exactly, the "Bass Enhancer" option does on Denon receivers? Extensive searching over the last few years seems to reveal that no-one's terribly sure. I've seen lots of contradictory responses.

The fact that it's on by default suggests it may be badly named (obviously anything labelled "enhancer" on a piece of kit should normally be disabled). Is it actually a "enable bass management for multi-channel analogue out" switch?

I got a PS3 for couple weeks now and hook up to my TV (Sony KDF-55WF655) directly via HDMI, I didn't have the second HDMI cable until yesterday and want to hook it to the 3806. Does anyone encounter any issues with this setup?

I'll find outhopefully this weekend if I'm able to get to the Post Office to pick up my PS3. I'll be routing that to my 3806 and switching between the PS3 and the A2 for the audio over HDMI.

Before I ask my questions, I want to make one general comment. I have been inactive on this site, just reading many of the posts and trying to increase my knowledge. I would not be able to do that without the tremendous base of information provided by some very dedicated, technically knowledgeable posters. Thank you for your time and expertise answering good, bad and ugly questions.

When I purchased my 3806 several months ago and read the manual, I began to question my decision. The manual was confusing and was of little help when I tried to set up my system. I searched the web for help and found this site with over 1,500 posts addressing 3806 issues. While I am still an amateur I feel more confident and understand more about the intricacies of the 3806.

The question I have relates to the responsibility of Denon to its customers. If you check the Denon web site, you would assume that any questions and problems customers have are answered in the hard copy or on-line version of the manual. There are some FAQS that are very general. But there is no recognition of the many, many problems 3806 owners have encountered and how they have independently solved them. Has anyone on this site communicated with Denon management or knowledgeable technical staff and reviewed this issue with them? What type of response did you receive? I wonder if anyone pointed out that a high level Audyssey technical rep has participated in discussions and problem solving on another site?

These comments arise out of frustration with Denon and its hands-off attitude. If Denon was a low priced, mass-market manufacturer I would not be surprised with its attitude –You Get What You Pay For. However, Denon is marketing expensive, highly technical products. It cannot ship products and forget about follow up care. At least that’s my opinion.

I suspect I could post this same message on a number of other strings and the problems I mention would apply equally. Only the model number and the manufacturer might differ.

Am I being unrealistic and expecting too much from Denon?

Does anyone know how many PCM channels over HDMI the 3806 is capable of? I just got a PS3 for BD movies and I see there is an audio option for 7.1 pcm.

Before I ask my questions, I want to make one general comment. I have been inactive on this site, just reading many of the posts and trying to increase my knowledge. I would not be able to do that without the tremendous base of information provided by some very dedicated, technically knowledgeable posters. Thank you for your time and expertise answering good, bad and ugly questions.

When I purchased my 3806 several months ago and read the manual, I began to question my decision. The manual was confusing and was of little help when I tried to set up my system. I searched the web for help and found this site with over 1,500 posts addressing 3806 issues. While I am still an amateur I feel more confident and understand more about the intricacies of the 3806.

The question I have relates to the responsibility of Denon to its customers. If you check the Denon web site, you would assume that any questions and problems customers have are answered in the hard copy or on-line version of the manual. There are some FAQS that are very general. But there is no recognition of the many, many problems 3806 owners have encountered and how they have independently solved them. Has anyone on this site communicated with Denon management or knowledgeable technical staff and reviewed this issue with them? What type of response did you receive? I wonder if anyone pointed out that a high level Audyssey technical rep has participated in discussions and problem solving on another site?

These comments arise out of frustration with Denon and its hands-off attitude. If Denon was a low priced, mass-market manufacturer I would not be surprised with its attitude –You Get What You Pay For. However, Denon is marketing expensive, highly technical products. It cannot ship products and forget about follow up care. At least that’s my opinion.

I suspect I could post this same message on a number of other strings and the problems I mention would apply equally. Only the model number and the manufacturer might differ.

Am I being unrealistic and expecting too much from Denon?

I just got a Denon 3806 for my bedroom HT system. I had a nice Pioneer Elite (about a $4000 receiver) but it is 3 years old and for some reason will not sync up digital audio with my DirecTv Tivo HD satellite receiver. Works great with all other Satellite HD reveivers but not Tivo....so...I got this new 3806 Denon.

I totally agree with you that this Denon 3806 receiver is THE MOST confusing product and frustrating product I've ever encountered! The manual makes zero sense and offers zero help.

The manual isn't written very well but the 3806 is an excellent receiver. Just like my 3805 was. And I will upgrade to another Denon again next year when they incorporate HDMI 1.3 in the receivers. I'll either get the 3806 successor or a 43XX series.

I don't love the manual or the remote; but I think the Audyssey (spelling?) function is great. It makes my speakers sound much better than with my old Denon receiver. I also like the general audio quality of the machine. It also switches composite/s video/component signals without any visible deterioration. I have not had a chance to test the HDMI; but I gather that the current state of the art in HDMI switching is not included with this unit.

I am starting to consider upgrading the downstairs receiver; and I am not sure whether I should wait for the 3807 or look at the series just below this machine. Right now it is looking like I need a capability of upconverting analog to digital, as I have the suspicion that the upconversion in my LCD 40 inch Sony Bravia is fairly weak.

Well I re-did the Audessey set up 3 times in my 3806 between yesterday and today. I did 6 seperate setting and that is really the only to do the Audessy set up. However Audessy still makes all my speakers large and even does the crossover for my center channel at 60hz and my mains at 40hz...very weird! The real problem is with Audessy it rolls out all the bass and all of 16khz and boosts 2-4khz like crazy. I have Klipsch Ref series horn load speakers and they have PLENTY of energy at 2-4khz! With Audessy the sound is very harsh and nasal sounding.
So I did a copy of the Audessy curve to the flat/manual setting and adjusted to my and my wifes taste and I guess I will leave it at that I changed the crossover to 80hz too.
Audessey seem to be a waste.

Good day-

I've been considering either a Denon 3806 or a Denon 4306 for my new receiver. I just watch movies and I don't crank them either - no where near reference volume. I have a couple questions I was hoping I could get answered:

1) Over HDMI, can I get video passed untouched to my TV? The highest resolution would be 1080p24.

2) Does this receiver have enough power to run 4 ohm speakers? I have some Onix references that I would run this receiver with.

Thanks for any help!
Chris

Does anyone know how many PCM channels over HDMI the 3806 is capable of? I just got a PS3 for BD movies and I see there is an audio option for 7.1 pcm.

Aaronwt,

Were you able to get the 7.1 PCM to work? What settings were required on the Denon 3806?

I also found the Audessy too bright for my B&W speakers (LCR 601). I've tried it on the Tuner and thru my DVD player, and both are too bright. I am going to upgrade my DVD player soon, so I'll try it again then. Does anyone have any suggestions?

I also found the Audessy too bright for my B&W speakers (LCR 601). I've tried it on the Tuner and thru my DVD player, and both are too bright. I am going to upgrade my DVD player soon, so I'll try it again then. Does anyone have any suggestions?
Audessey has nothing to do with the sound from your tuner, cd, dvd ect. Audessey is supposed to set up your complete system with proper eq, crossovers, speaker distance and so forth. Guess what Audessey really does not work very well. I have been trying it over and over.

Good day-

I've been considering either a Denon 3806 or a Denon 4306 for my new receiver. I just watch movies and I don't crank them either - no where near reference volume. I have a couple questions I was hoping I could get answered:

1) Over HDMI, can I get video passed untouched to my TV? The highest resolution would be 1080p24.

2) Does this receiver have enough power to run 4 ohm speakers? I have some Onix references that I would run this receiver with.

Thanks for any help!
Chris
1. I think so, per Denon. It automatically passes through video from the DVD player.
2. Yes, my fronts are 4 ohms and the rest are 6 ohms. Check page 7 of the manual for more info.

Hi all, does the amp support 1080p component input and output 1080p HDMI signal? (without any up/downscaling)

The main reason i asking this because xbox360 can only output 1080p component / VGA but now almost all LCDTV only support 1080p HDMI input.
Thanks!

I don't have SW in my setup.
Does 3806 re-route LFT to mian if I have LFE+Main selected?
Thanks.

I don't have SW in my setup.
Does 3806 re-route LFT to mian if I have LFE+Main selected?
Thanks.
Then you shouldn't select LFE&Main.

Questions...moving AVR3806 to bedroom.

My bedroom TV does not have HDMI input, can I use component as monitor out and still use DVD player and PS3 with HDMI input to AVR?

Questions...moving AVR3806 to bedroom.

My bedroom TV does not have HDMI input, can I use component as monitor out and still use DVD player and PS3 with HDMI input to AVR?

No, as none of the Denon's will downconvert HDMI signals to analog.

Jeebus. This receiver sounds great...When you can figure the b***ard out.

So...I've got my SACD player (Denon 1920) wired to the 3806 with HDMI (pictures and movies) as well as analog connections.

How in the HELL do I know the 3806 is playing it as an SACD and not as the second layer "Redbook" version of the hybrid disc?

Pink Floyd Dark Side of the Moon is mixed in 5.1 surround, and I'm getting stereo...That's it. WTF? The DVD player displays "SACD" when I'm playing the disc, but the HDMI light is still lit. I should look through the 1920's thread as well...But figured I'd ask here while I was reading this thread. :D

The manual is of ZERO use, and as I've stated earlier in this thread, Denon customer support is helpful...After you wait on hold for at least 3 frickin' hours.

The HD part of an SACD usually contains both high-resolution stereo and high-resolution multichannel.

You need to tell the player to play the multichannel area. That's the "SUPER AUDIO CD SETUP" button on some Denon players.

The HD part of an SACD usually contains both high-resolution stereo and high-resolution multichannel.

You need to tell the player to play the multichannel area. That's the "SUPER AUDIO CD SETUP" button on some Denon players.

I'm SO kicking myself after posting that...I just popped back in here to say..."Hey guys, guess what? I'm a RETARD!".

There's a nifty little button on the DVD remote (I don't normally use it) that says "Super Audio CD Setup".

Thanks man.

Questions...moving AVR3806 to bedroom.

My bedroom TV does not have HDMI input, can I use component as monitor out and still use DVD player and PS3 with HDMI input to AVR?I would think so, but I'm not sure.

I would think so, but I'm not sure.
No it can not.

Aaronwt,

Were you able to get the 7.1 PCM to work? What settings were required on the Denon 3806?

No I have not. I heard that Resistance is the only software that has 7.1 and I have rented the disc but I'm still only receiving 5.1. BD movies sounds great and so does SACD over HDMI to the 3806. I was suprised the PS3 would pass the high resolution multichannel audio from the SACDs over the HDMI to the 3806. It sounds much better than from my Denon 2200.

Are there any firmware upgrades for the 3806 to solve the HDCP handshake issues? If so are they downloaded onto the 3806 via the ethernet connection or do you have to carry the receiver to an authorized dealer?

I currently have my HTPC running an ATI X1600 HDMI thru the 3806 to a Panny AE900 Projector. Both the ATI card and the Panny are HDCP Compliant. As of right now I have no problems. However, when I run the Cyberlink BD/HD Advisor, it's saying that my display is not HDCP Compliant. I'm pretty sure it's the 3806, because when I got to Display Properties or open the Catalyst Control Center, the display is listed as the Denon Receiver. I'm going to have a problem when I upgrade by DVD drive to either BluRay or HD-DVD or both.

Also, like many of you I have also had the HDCP Compliant issue with my Comcast SA8300 STB. However, this is not all the fault of the 3806. Under some investigation the SA8300 uses the HDMI 1.0 spec, which does not support HDMI Switching. It is up to your locality's Cable Provider to implement a firmware upgrade from Scientific Atlanta to bump the HDMI 1.0 to 1.1. Scientific Atlanta suggest contacting your cable service provider (a Manager Level Employee) and bugging them about doing an upgrade.

Dwight2001

The 3806 firmware isn't user upgradeable.

The 3806 firmware isn't user upgradeable.


Is there a firmware that an Authorized Dealer can install?

Not sure if this is the best place to ask this question...

But I just bought a used 3805 that was damaged during shipping. The function knob no longer works. The circuit board behind the knob needs replaced as it was jammed pretty hard and the electrical part of the knob has separated and is unfixable.

Does anyone know where I can find a schematic with the part number on it for that board? Do you think if I take the board out there will be a useable part number on it?

Let me know what you think.

Duane

Where did you buy it from, wouldn't they be responsible for fixing it?

In anycase, I think you're going to have a hard time repairing it yourself, plus, if you have the remote you shouldn't really even need that knob to function. I rarely, if ever, have to use any of the buttons/knobs on my 3806.

Is it causing the unit to be stuck in a certain function?

Where did you buy it from, wouldn't they be responsible for fixing it?

In anycase, I think you're going to have a hard time repairing it yourself, plus, if you have the remote you shouldn't really even need that knob to function. I rarely, if ever, have to use any of the buttons/knobs on my 3806.

Is it causing the unit to be stuck in a certain function?

I bought it from an individual on ebay. He's a real nice guy and offered to pay $100 towards fixing it. I also had the option to send it back, but I got a good enough deal on it that I decided fixing it might be ok.

Today I actually had the cover off so I could take a peek inside. The board is easily accessible. Take the transformer out and the board is only connected with 2 screws and the nut behind the knob. the wiring is connected via what looks to be a plug, though I did not unplug it to be sure. I took the board out and attempted to fix the switch. There is a dial with many contacts on its face, that ride agains 3 of the tiniest stamped wires I have ever seen. Those little wires were mangled. I broke out the 2x loupe and a pair of tweesers and attempted to straighten them out. I got them to the point where they were at least not touching each other and put everything back together. The knob now works somewhat. At least it doesn't click the relays off inside the receiver like it did when I first powered it up. All this and i forgot to see if there was a part number on the board.

Anyways, mostly I was worried that there might be other damage to the receiver that I was unaware of... this thing has lots of features, and I wasn't sure if somewhere down the road a problem would arise from the shipping damage with a feature that maybe I hadn't been using. Now that I have been using the reciever for a day or so, I feel confident that everything is working properly.

I would still like to replace that board if I could, but I would have to ship the receiver to NJ to have it repaired, and I am sure the total cost would be well over the $100 that the seller offered me, and I just can't afford to spend any more dough right now. I thought that I had found the part on the partstore.com website. It was titled "function knob assembly" but without a picture of it, I can't be certain. it was only an $9 item, so it's probably not it.

Anyways, the receiver sounds great... hopefully someone can help me out.
If not, then your right, I won't probably ever use the function knob, so as long as the wires aren't crossed, and everything else works, I'll never notice.

Duane

Not sure if this is the best place to ask this question...

But I just bought a used 3805 that was damaged during shipping. The function knob no longer works. The circuit board behind the knob needs replaced as it was jammed pretty hard and the electrical part of the knob has separated and is unfixable.

Does anyone know where I can find a schematic with the part number on it for that board? Do you think if I take the board out there will be a useable part number on it?

Let me know what you think.

Duane
If they were damaged during shipping, it might be worth following up with shipping company. Are not they responsible for any damages during shipping?

The following is the list of Denon's authorized parts distributors
http://usa.denon.com/PartsDistributors.asp

I am not sure, if they sell parts to individuals, but worth a shot.

Indeed, some of them do sell to individuals, but I can's find that particular curcuit board on there anywhere. I could replace the broken foot and the dented cover if I wanted, but I was able to fix them enough so that the damage is not noticeable while the unit is in the cabinet.

The shipping company was the USPS... and no shipping insurance was offered in the ebay auction. I think I am just going to forget this and live with it the way it is. This might lower the resale value of this receiver leaving it dinged up, but chances are, I won't be in the market for another receiver for 5 years or so... by that time, it won't be worth a whole lot anyways.

thanks

DUane

by the way, this receiver is extremely impressive... especially compared to my old sony.

Indeed, some of them do sell to individuals, but I can's find that particular curcuit board on there anywhere. I could replace the broken foot and the dented cover if I wanted, but I was able to fix them enough so that the damage is not noticeable while the unit is in the cabinet.

If you call them and describe the part (the PCB), they might be able to help.

If you call them and describe the part (the PCB), they might be able to help.

Yes, I might try that after the holidays. In the meantime, I have released the guy that sold it to me from any responsibility. It doesn't seem right to be tearing into this thing myself and then make him pay for it. For all he knows, I might be a total idiot and do more damage than good. Which is a possibility. :)

Thanks

Duane

You might try Gold Crown Electronics in Carson CA, they repair Denon equipment, they might be able to get you the parts.



http://www.goldcrownelectronics.com/
Gold Crown Electronics

I sent out some emails... we'll see if they can come up with something.

thanks again
duane

Just hooked up my new 3806 to a 7.1 setup using James Loudspeaker in-walls. The speakers are 8 ohms. Something seems wrong with the volume. I have to turn the volume almost all the way up to have it at a normal level for a movie. Is there some setting I'm missing? My Yamaha receiver is at about -55dB when watching a movie (different room, different speakers). The Denon is comfortable at about -10dB. Something has to be wrong.

Can someone else that owns this receiver comment on what their "normal" volume level (indicated on the receiver) would be for watching a movie?

Can someone else that owns this receiver comment on what their "normal" volume level (indicated on the receiver) would be for watching a movie?
It really depends on the efficiancy of your speakers. Rated at 1 watt of power 1 meter away some speakers are 87db and some are 104db...that is a big difference. Also the size and acoustic treatment of the room plays a big part. There is no one correct answer to your question.

It really depends on the efficiancy of your speakers. Rated at 1 watt of power 1 meter away some speakers are 87db and some are 104db...that is a big difference. Also the size and acoustic treatment of the room plays a big part. There is no one correct answer to your question.

I know the volume level will be different between different speakers, but would think it would be reasonably close. My 120 watt Yamaha upstairs plays my Jamo speakers comfortably at -55db. This Denon with the James speakers needs to go all the way up to -10db to get a reasonable volume. You can't even hear them until you get past -35db. This is a huge difference that doesn't seem like it could possibly be correct.

Is it possible that one brand of 6.5" speaker could be that much different than another?

The James speakers are rated at 89db @ 1 watt @ 1 meter.

Can someone else that owns this receiver comment on what their "normal" volume level (indicated on the receiver) would be for watching a movie?

GObble, I recently purchased a used 3805. I think it's pretty close to the 3806 except for hdmi and some setup features... amps I THINK are identical, or so I have been told. My speakers are power hungry 87db effecient, and this receiver makes them sing like no other receiver I own. Granted, it seems like I am running the volume higher than I would think for normal listening, but when I crank it all the way up it's fiercely loud... and clean.

for some reason the receiver limits the volume depending on how far apart your room eq settings set the channel levels, and also depending on what surround type you have selected. IN my system, sometimes max volume is +2 db like when using dts neo6, and other times max volume is like +12 for 2 channel stereo listening. I am not exactly sure why that is, unless it's to compensate for the different dynamic range in different types of coding. I think a comfortable listening level for me during a DD or DTS movie is around -20 db. That seems to give a pretty good theatre impression... although with the dynamic range compression turned off, it can get pretty loud at times, and way too quiet at other times.

I haven't had this receiver very long, so I don't know everything about it, but I am sure once you get it set up properly, you will be amazed with your 3806.

Have you ran the room eq yet with the mic? That made a huge difference in my system with SQ and overall volume in a room that is literally a sonic trainwreck.

merry christmas!
duane

You can always increase the output gain to your speakers to solve the problem....but of couse this does not answer the problem directly....Guess you have the same speaker cables...Check cables you never know

But maybe the output gain to your speakers was high when you had the other amplifier.
You can check your yamaha settings and compare....

You can always increase the output gain to your speakers to solve the problem....but of couse this does not answer the problem directly....Guess you have the same speaker cables...Check cables you never know

But maybe the output gain to your speakers was high when you had the other amplifier.
You can check your yamaha settings and compare....

what is this output gain you speak of? Is this a setting I am unaware of, or a setting found only on the 3806 and not the 3805? Sorry to be posting in the wrong thread, but the 3805 thread seems a little dead, and there's probably alot of 3806 owners that are familliar with the 3805.

thanks
duane

You know that when you perform the automatic settings for each speaker, the amplifier assigns a gain in db to each individual speaker depending on the room size and distance from listener....However, well for the 3806 for sure and I assume the 3805 as well, you can set these manually according to your needs.. the gain is from -12db to 12 db I think not sure now as my system is not here to check for you.

You can check in manual maybe regarding speaker settings or gain

Further your amplifier's equalizer settings can also effect the output from your speakers.

ok, norge, I know what you mean. I guess I never thought to change that setting on the receiver since it is set by the auto eq setup. I suppose if you increased all those levels by the same amount you would be able to increase the room spl for any given master voume setting, and still maintain the differences between each channel originally set up by the auto room eq. Thanks!

So, why DOES this receiver limit the max volume on different surround settings? Is it because of the dynamic range I talke about earlier? or something else. Just curious.

Duane

I just took the Denon upstairs and hooked it up to the same speakers the Yamaha is using. Something has to be wrong. The Denon at -20dB is the same volume the Yamaha is at -50dB. The Yamaha is 130 watts per channel. The Yamaha gets considerably louder than the Denon. It doesn't seem right that the Denon gets to a comfortable listening level at almost max volume. It seems like this would be up in a range past its sweet spot where I would get distortion. Are you guys really having to crank this thing that high to get a listenable level?

If I were watching a concert DVD, I could see having the volume up to the maximum level. I've never listened to any stereo or amp at anywhere near its maximum level. Again, something must be wrong.

gobble,
I can run the volume on the denon all the way up to it's set limit. Neo6 and PLII will go up to +2 db max. It is excruciatingly loud, and zero distortion at that level. It allows 2 channel music to a little higher on the scale, up to 8. But 8 on 2 channel is fast hearing damage territory.

I think the volume on these denons is set up a little differently than other receivers. Maybe you are worrying too much about the number on the display because it is so much different than your other receiver? Can you get the same volume with the denon by cranking it all the way up?

And again, have you ran auto setup? THe room eq really brings things to life, much better than I was able to do by ear.

Duane

I think I figured something out. My Yamaha starts at -99 and counts up to 0. 0 is the highest volume. It looks like the Denon starts at -80 and goes to +18. So I was thinking 0 is the highest volume but +18 really is. It gets pretty loud at +18. I think I'm ok.

I have run auto set up.

Quick question. Considering the Denon AV-3806 uses the Faroudja processor, would I have to worry about macroblocking issues with my Panasonic TH-50PX60U?

You have to check that both yamaha and denon amplifiers are set to the same output gain for each individual speaker.

Secondly and I think is the most that makes sense....what max db can the yamaha reach? and what maximum db can the 3805 reach? Maybe the answer to your question is that different amplifiers have different power outputs for the same gain. 50db on yamaha might imply a larger power output than from 50db on the 3805.

It depends ..I think from the input signal ..how powerful it is before being amplified....maybe circuitry in 3805 make the input signal at a lower signal before being amplified.

Quick question:

I can't seem to find an answer to this... did they ever approve licensing to pass sacd over denonlink?

duane

Quick question:

I can't seem to find an answer to this... did they ever approve licensing to pass sacd over denonlink?
Yes, the third edition (DL3). The 3806 is equipped for DL3.

norge,

just realized that if I turn the channel levels all up say 10db in setup, it lowers the max volume by 10db, so that really doesn't help. It's like this receiver knows where your reference level volume is going to be or something, and that changes depending on the dynamic range of the input. I was playing a regular cd in the dvd player... max allowable volume is +8... as soon as I put an HDCD in, max allowable volume is only +2. ???? I don't understand what the advantage is in this. Any ideas???

s2silber,

Does this mean that sacd will not go through denonlink in the 3805?

s2silber,

Does this mean that sacd will not go through denonlink in the 3805?
I believe it's the player that must have either Denon Link 3 capability or the available firmware update for it. If so, the 3805 should be able to handle it.

I was wondering if there are any HDMI problems with the 3806 paired with the Optoma HD72 projector? This thread is so HUGE I have searched and searched. I did see some people were having some issues but I did not see if they were resolved.

By problems I mean video w/ no audio, handshake issues, etc. etc.

I plan on setting the 3806 up with a PS3 and D* HDDVR(HR10-250) along with the Optoma HD72. Connecting all three via HDMI.

I'm ready to pull the trigger but I was interested in hearing anyone elses experience with a similiar set up.

I posted this same question in the Yamaha thread as these are the two I have narrowed it down to (3806 and 2700). I just want to confirm theses devices will all work together.

Thanks in advance.

Can someone else that owns this receiver comment on what their "normal" volume level (indicated on the receiver) would be for watching a movie?


I have B&W spoekers (601 LCR) and my tuner normal volums is -30 and my dvd pleayer is set between -20 and -10 depending the DVD. Hope that helps

I believe it's the player that must have either Denon Link 3 capability or the available firmware update for it. If so, the 3805 should be able to handle it.
Correct, the 3805 has always been DL3 capable, it's the player that needs to be updated/have capability.

I am having a problem passing a widescreen picture to the TV by hooking an hdmi cable from my cable tv box to the 3806 in widescreen mode although it works in 4:3 ok. The TV's remote refuses to scale it any larger when the 3806 is present although it works fine when passing the cable TV signal straight to the TV. I figure there is a fix for this. Has anyone had a similar problem?

I am under the distinct impression that feeding hdmi into the receiver can result in problems.

I gather that the SFA 8300HD in particular is not a good match to the hdmi into this receiver.

As always, your mileage may vary.

I'm really disappointed in this receiver. The audyssey auto-EQ makes my speakers sound terrible, and the DSP selection is a complete joke. My sony which is almost 6 years old makes everything sound much nicer. Playing regular TV on this pipes everything through the center and plays strange distorted noises out of the mains. It sounds best with pure-direct, and then you have to ask yourself - Why did I spend 1k on something to pass sound through?

What is denon's warranty on this receiver? I'm thinking about buying it and am deciding on whether or not the store's extended warranty is worth it.

I believe it is 3 years parts/labor. I went to a store that does it all inhouse for free under mfg. warranty. You can generally "demo" receivers with a 30 day return. I'm glad this policy is in play myself.

Can someone else that owns this receiver comment on what their "normal" volume level (indicated on the receiver) would be for watching a movie?

I use a pair of B&W 604s as front speakers, no sub. I typically use around -12 to -15dB for action movies and around -25dB for comedy/dialogue intense movies.

Cheers

I am starting to see posts about a 3808 for mid-next year. Looks like hdmi 1.3 is the key new feature. I don't know much about the upconversion capabilties compared with the 4308. Probably will have an ethernet port and ipod docking also. List price likely to be $1500.

Does anybody know the limits of the upconverter in the 3806? I actually only use my unit in component mode. My partial understanding is that the unit converts 480i to 480p; but no further. I am looking for confirmation on this.

Separately, as I understand it, hd dvd and blue ray players convert the high res audio to pcm streams over hdmi, which can be read by the 3806. But I wonder; wouldn't a fidelity buff be better off taking the analog sound off the hi res dvd player instead of sending a downconverted pcm signal to the receiver?

Guys,

I know the 3806 accepts 1080p50 and 1080p60 signal as passthrough, but does it accept 1080p24 as well ?

Thx ! ;)

I think I figured something out. My Yamaha starts at -99 and counts up to 0. 0 is the highest volume. It looks like the Denon starts at -80 and goes to +18. So I was thinking 0 is the highest volume but +18 really is. It gets pretty loud at +18. I think I'm ok.

I have run auto set up.


OK I checked out my volume settings. watching TV programs the volume is around -45-40 and a serious movie watching setting seems to go to around -38-35. I have extremly efficiant speakers with my Klipsch Ref system so take that into account. Turning it up to past -15 it is rock concert loud but still very punchy.

Tomorrow is the big day in which I will finally pick up the receiver. The last question I have is if the video processing is better than it will be on my sony KDL-40V2500. I am thinking about running everything (PS3, Xbox 360, wii, PS2) through the receiver and having it output to one HDMI on the back of the TV. Is this a good idea? Is the video processing on this receiver really worthwhile? I've been thinking of stepping down to the 2807 for quite sometime, but from what I see everyone doing, it looks like most users do end up using the video processing capabilities of this receiver.

Still trying to get my hd tivo receiver to work with the 3806 with the component in and hdmi to monitor. I can get sound via the optical but no picture. Everything that I have running HDMI to HDMI works fine. Also, my Wii I am trying to run via analog to HDMI, no picture.

I'm curious if anyone has 7.1 PCM over HDMI working? I guess you can only test this with a PS3 and 1 Blu-ray disc, but this thread seems to indicate it is only working with 5.1 PCM over HDMI.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=776271&page=1&pp=30

Thanks,
Chris

Simple Processing
- Level trimming (volume balancing)
- Distance adjustment
- Bass managementCan someone confirm that the Denon AVR-3806 does all that for PCM in both HDMI and analog ?

Thx ! ;)

I'm curious if anyone has 7.1 PCM over HDMI working? I guess you can only test this with a PS3 and 1 Blu-ray disc, but this thread seems to indicate it is only working with 5.1 PCM over HDMI.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=776271&page=1&pp=30

Thanks,
Chris
I can only get 5.1 pcm over HDMI. Although I've only tried it with Resistance. I haven't tried The Descent yet.

I recently got this receiver and have encountered some issues. First, the original 3806 I got decided that it would notoutput sound which includes not even doing receiver generated channel level tones. I did the reset and it then worked but then when I turned it off and back on it went into no-sound mode again. The HDMI was also flakey and when it did work the image on my Sanyo Z5 projector was completely red.

Returned that one and got a new 3806. Before unhooking my current receiver yet again (Pioneer Elite 84) I decided to just test this new 3806 with seeing if it would work with HDMI. I connected my Toshiba HD-A1 and PS3 to it and no go. I keep getting the "no hdmi link" error on the HD-A1 and it doesn't matter what sequence I turn everything on.

My question is does the display factor into this? I have read this receiver has problems with the Z5 so I am curious if it was connected to another display would the HD-A1 keep giving me "no hdmi link" errors or would it work? Basically, does the display matter for a component and a receiver to sync up with hdmi or is that a whole diff area that shouldn't matter in this issue I am having?

All I know is HDMI is a pain and I'm not a big fan of Denon right now.

Oh and my Elite 84 hasn't had any problems with anything HDMI and it is waaaaaaaay less touchy/buggy than the 3806. I merely got the 3806 because it was on sale and I wanted to see how it was and looked forward to having the LFE PCM issue fixed with it.

Hello All:

Picked up a 3806 o the day after Christmas. (Yes, not a good day to go out looking to buy anything). After, playing with the remote, reading the useless manual for 3 hours, reading all of this thread till 2 in the morning, and recieving my speakers yesterday all is up and running. Tossed the remote and the manual is in the woodstove.

Thanks to all that have posted their problems and solutions here. These helped getting this system setup.

Thanks again!

Gaffer97

I wish I had known about this place when I purchased my 3806.

Would have saved me literally days of grief & frustration.

Simple Processing
- Level trimming (volume balancing)
- Distance adjustment
- Bass managementCan someone confirm that the Denon AVR-3806 does all that for PCM in both HDMI and analog ?

Pleaaaaaaaaaaase ! ;)

Since the latest Firmware update to the SA8300HD running passport, I am having no handshake issues with my 3806.

I have also used an Oppo 971H DVI-HDMI connection with no problems (granted, no HDCP on this unit), and now the Oppo 981 HDMI outputting 1080p 60. I had a minor problem with the 981 and 3806 not negotiating the correct colorspace maybe 1 in 10 times, but this is an issue with the Oppo 981, not the Denon, and has been addressed in the beta firmware release for this Oppo player.

I guess all in all, any HDMI issues I have had so far have been an issue with an individual component, not the Denon AVR-3806.


I am under the distinct impression that feeding hdmi into the receiver can result in problems.

I gather that the SFA 8300HD in particular is not a good match to the hdmi into this receiver.

As always, your mileage may vary.

so this is a stupid question but I can't seem to find the answer.
Is the 3806's remote IR or RF based?
I ask because it turns out I have to replace my beloved Kenwood VR-4900 flagship reciever that had a nice touchscreen remote that was RF....I'd really like to have the benifit of RF again otherwise I need to re-arrange my components a bit.

Also when you're making adjustments to speaker levels such as adjusting the sub or rear surround db settings does it display on your TV or is it just on the front screen of the reciever?
thanks

The 3806 and it's remote is entirely IR only, you won't find many brands that offer or use RF. And when you do, they are almost never compatible with other brands or products that also may use RF. So unless that Kenwood remote can also do IR as well as RF, and also learn then needed Denon IR commands, you are out of luck.

The 3806 and it's remote is entirely IR only, you won't find many brands that offer or use RF. And when you do, they are almost never compatible with other brands or products that also may use RF.

thanks for the info.
Yeah I wasn't expecting to be able to use my kenwood remote I just liked the idea of a RF remote and was hoping to have one again.

I also am having a hard time giving up my Kenwood VR-4900. It's been a great receiver and the remote (while a bit BULKY) is wonderful to use! But now that I'm moving into HDTV and HDMI inputs I need the switching capabilities of some of the newer receivers. Anyone have a recommendation for a good replacement for my Kenwood?

I also am having a hard time giving up my Kenwood VR-4900. It's been a great receiver and the remote (while a bit BULKY) is wonderful to use! But now that I'm moving into HDTV and HDMI inputs I need the switching capabilities of some of the newer receivers. Anyone have a recommendation for a good replacement for my Kenwood?
My problem is the reciever is no longer talking to the remote. so I am having a hard time adjusting things like speaker delay, db levels etc etc. Everything you used to set via the interactive screens on the kenwood remote have stopped working and it's really a bummer.
I could live with no HDMI but not being able to adjust for things like a low or garbled center channel and not being able to tell the reciever to look for a mpeg signal for audio and such is really bothering me.

I understand adjusting the volume, but how often do you adjust your speaker delay? You should only be needing to set that once or twice I would think. Are you changing your speaker locations all the time?

My problem is the reciever is no longer talking to the remote. so I am having a hard time adjusting things like speaker delay, db levels etc etc. Everything you used to set via the interactive screens on the kenwood remote have stopped working and it's really a bummer.
I could live with no HDMI but not being able to adjust for things like a low or garbled center channel and not being able to tell the reciever to look for a mpeg signal for audio and such is really bothering me.

I understand adjusting the volume, but how often do you adjust your speaker delay? You should only be needing to set that once or twice I would think. Are you changing your speaker locations all the time?
Delay I dont' adjust often but I do frequently have to adjust speaker levels.
For example when we're watching a movie in daytime or evening when I can have real volume I'd have the rears and sub set for one setting.
Nighttime when I'm trying to keep the volume down I tend to turn the sub down and the center up to hear the dialog better(since midnight mode isn't that effective on the 4900)
These adjustments are much more difficult to do when you can't tell what you're doing.
Also in the process of trying to fix the synch issue I completely reset my remote AND reciever and haven't found a way to get into the speaker selection menu to adjust speaker size and sub selection.

Two part question:
(1) Can someone having the following setup verify if you get the onscreen display to overlay the picture on the TV when watching DVD or an over-air broadcast?

DVD to 3806 via HDMI
3806 to TV via HDMI


(2) By using 2 HDMI cables instead of running HDMI directly from the DVD to the TV, can you bypass the Faroujda video processor in the 3806 and use the processor on the DVD player? I assume you have to go into the "Video Setup" menu and turn off "Video Convert", but I need someone to verify this to be the proper steps. Denon support is non-existant since I was on hold for over 20mins. I have a 3930CI which has a better processor. Further, it's more direct and cheaper to use 1 HDMI cable. However, it's bothersome to constantly have to switch inputs on my TV to view the volume level on my receiver. I'm hoping the onscreen overlay will resolve my problems even at the cost of another HDMI cable.
I ended up buying a second HDMI cable because I need a longer one. The answer to #1 is no. If you are watching a DVD and wanted to see the 3806 setup menu, the DVD image cuts out and the 3806 setup menu appears, even if the DVD is set at 480i. If you are watching an over-air broadcast, the 3806 setup menu will not appear - at least for me.

I believe the answer to #2 is yes and no. By turning off video convert, the 3806 onscreen display no longer works. However, as in #1, there is no onscreen overlay if you turn video convert on.

I always use the display on the 3806. The only time I use the on screen display is for setup with the Audessy calibration. I don't want the 3806 doing anything to the signal.

Just to verify, the 3806 can be set just to pass through video up to 1080p60 correct?

Thanks,
Chris

Just to verify, the 3806 can be set just to pass through video up to 1080p60 correct?

Thanks,
Chris

The 3806 can handle 1080p 60 passthrough, but you do not have to "set it". No configuration is nessesary, as the 3806 will simply passthrough HDMI signals at their original resolution since there is no scaler.

The answer to #1 is no. If you are watching a DVD and wanted to see the 3806 setup menu, the DVD image cuts out and the 3806 setup menu appears, even if the DVD is set at 480i

Hi there,

my 3806 perfectly overlays the set up menu & volume control and doesn't cut out the image, though. HDMI from DVD to AVR and then to the TV set.

In other hand, I do have 2 more DVD's which are not HDMI equipped (component only) and in that case you don't see anything at all. Hope this helps.

Cheers / Avliner.

Hi there,

my 3806 perfectly overlays the set up menu & volume control and doesn't cut out the image, though. HDMI from DVD to AVR and then to the TV set.


Do you mind telling us what DVD player you have (with resolution setting) and what TV you have? I'm not getting the volume control info and only get the setup menu info. My picture also gets cut-off like a_ok2me also.


In other hand, I do have 2 more DVD's which are not HDMI equipped (component only) and in that case you don't see anything at all. Hope this helps.



That doesn't make sense at all.

I ended up buying a second HDMI cable because I need a longer one. The answer to #1 is no. If you are watching a DVD and wanted to see the 3806 setup menu, the DVD image cuts out and the 3806 setup menu appears, even if the DVD is set at 480i. If you are watching an over-air broadcast, the 3806 setup menu will not appear - at least for me.

I believe the answer to #2 is yes and no. By turning off video convert, the 3806 onscreen display no longer works. However, as in #1, there is no onscreen overlay if you turn video convert on.

I have the same situation as you. I've not figured out how to overlay the volume setting on my TV either when I use HDMI from DVD to 3806 and HDMI from 3806 to TV.

FYI, I have Sony NS-75H dvd and Pioneer Elite TV 1140.

hi guys

is there a 3807 coming soon with HDMI 1.3 for DOLBY DTS TRUE HD?

Hi there,

my 3806 perfectly overlays the set up menu & volume control and doesn't cut out the image, though. HDMI from DVD to AVR and then to the TV set.

In other hand, I do have 2 more DVD's which are not HDMI equipped (component only) and in that case you don't see anything at all. Hope this helps.

Cheers / Avliner.

This is only true at 480i/p. At higher resolutions, the 3806 does not have a scaler to overlay the OSD. At 720p+ you will not see any volume or speaker adjustments overlayed. If you enter setup, your 720p+ feed will be cut out and replaced with the Denon's screen.

Jbhungvt,

my TV is a Sony LCD 42", model KDF - E42A10, while my DVD is a Pioneer, model DV - 696A (it's an upscaling model, which also plays SACD & DVD-A).

I have it set at 1080i though.

Oh, by the way, I must apologize for a not-so-complete answer, as stated before. When I said that I don't have any info (OSD), the truth is that I do, but not overlayed as with the HDMI player. I got the OSD but the image cuts off (screen becomes black), but in both cases, no volume control appears on screen and that is due to the TV resolution.

Cheers / Avliner.

hi guys

is there a 3807 coming soon with HDMI 1.3 for DOLBY DTS TRUE HD?

Recent press releases say Yes. Take that FWIW.
http://www.audiodesignline.com/news/196602183

Is the 3806 able to perform bass management on the analog multichannel inputs?
(H/K receivers usually can, but a lot of receivers can not.)

I am pretty much a newbie at surround sound but I have my 5.1 setup hooked up to the AVR-3806. I can't for the life of me get sound to come out of the surrounds. I have them hooked up to the A section of the Surround speakers but the auto setup doesnt cause them to make any sound. I used a voltmeter to test to make sure that the cables were passing the signal as they should. I doubt it's the speaker's fault since there are two of them. Maybe there is some setting that I am missing or am plugged into the wrong connection in the back?

I switched the fronts and the surrounds and now I can hear the surrounds but not the fronts. That confirms that the speakers/wires work. I guess either my reciever isn't working right or I have it setup wrong. Any help guys?

Just got my 3806 hooked and have prolly spent about 20-25 hours playing with settings, but for the life of me I can't get sound out of the subwoofer. The most I get out of it is hum when I turn the sub up to about halfway (perhaps ground loop hum)

Some Details:
Sony DVD player to 3806 via Digital Coax (DVD)
MythTV/Ampache (movies and music) computer to 3806 via Stereo RCA (VDP)
SA8300HD cable box to 3806 (TV)
Front L/R, Center, Surr A and SubWoofer all NHT.

I run the Auto setup and it plays the test tone through the sub and gives it a reasonable level setting. Subwoofer is set to yes. I've tried both Large and Small for front speakers. I keep it set for LFE + Main.

I've been using the stereo computer and HD cable box as my sources for testing. For output mode, I believe that I usually have pressed the 7 Ch Stereo and it displays 5 channel Stereo. I've tried various other modes in a less than scientific manner.

As to ground loop: When I first plugged the RCA from the amp to sub, I got a hum from the sub. So I trotted out my old sub and haven't really gotten much out of that one either. I've also picked up a ground loop isolater from Radio Shack (270-054 http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2062214&cp). With that gizmo, there's no hum, but there's no signal either.

Anyone have any suggestions of anything to do or try? Much appreciated.

I am pretty much a newbie at surround sound but I have my 5.1 setup hooked up to the AVR-3806. I can't for the life of me get sound to come out of the surrounds. I have them hooked up to the A section of the Surround speakers but the auto setup doesnt cause them to make any sound. I used a voltmeter to test to make sure that the cables were passing the signal as they should. I doubt it's the speaker's fault since there are two of them. Maybe there is some setting that I am missing or am plugged into the wrong connection in the back?


Have you turned on the surround A speakers in Speaker Setup?

Just got my 3806 hooked and have prolly spent about 20-25 hours playing with settings, but for the life of me I can't get sound out of the subwoofer. The most I get out of it is hum when I turn the sub up to about halfway (perhaps ground loop hum)

Some Details:
Sony DVD player to 3806 via Digital Coax (DVD)
MythTV/Ampache (movies and music) computer to 3806 via Stereo RCA (VDP)
SA8300HD cable box to 3806 (TV)
Front L/R, Center, Surr A and SubWoofer all NHT.

I run the Auto setup and it plays the test tone through the sub and gives it a reasonable level setting. Subwoofer is set to yes. I've tried both Large and Small for front speakers. I keep it set for LFE + Main.

I've been using the stereo computer and HD cable box as my sources for testing. For output mode, I believe that I usually have pressed the 7 Ch Stereo and it displays 5 channel Stereo. I've tried various other modes in a less than scientific manner.

As to ground loop: When I first plugged the RCA from the amp to sub, I got a hum from the sub. So I trotted out my old sub and haven't really gotten much out of that one either. I've also picked up a ground loop isolater from Radio Shack (270-054 http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2062214&cp). With that gizmo, there's no hum, but there's no signal either.

Anyone have any suggestions of anything to do or try? Much appreciated.

What is the crossover set to for the sub on the Denon. Try moving it to 80-100 if it is set too high or too low. If you have a volume control on the sub itself, set it in the middle. Also, set your fronts to small if they do not have built-in subs themselves.

For simple testing, try just listening to FM music with good base with the receiver set to Dolby PLII Music mode.

Have you turned on the surround A speakers in Speaker Setup?

Yeah, I did that. I called Denon tech support this morning. They had me do a reset and then the auto setup. They said that if it isn't working then, then it is defective.

suxors! I bought it on ebay. maybe I can do the ol' switcheroo at a retail outlet.

suxors! I bought it on ebay. maybe I can do the ol' switcheroo at a retail outlet.

These receivers are not sold through big-box retail outlets, but rather audio specialty stores. Denon keeps records of serial numbers and the authorized dealers they are shipped to. I doubt switching it out for another is an option for you.

Some Ebay sellers are authorized Denon resellers for "B" stock units, if so you should have a full warranty. Otherwise, you should have some recourse through Ebay/Paypal purchaser insurance programs for buying a defective product - but you have to show an attempt to settle the dispute with the seller first.

Some Ebay sellers are authorized Denon resellers for "B" stock units, if so you should have a full warranty.


Denon B-stocks receivers do not have a full Denon 2 year warranty like their new products do, they only have a 90 day Denon warranty.

http://www.usa.denon.com/WebWarrHOME-B-STOCK-NoNS-406-Nov05.pdf


Now granted, Dakmart gives a 1 year warranty on most of their Denon B-stocks they sell, but I'm willing to bet that it's really only a Dakmart added extended warranty that takes over after the Denon 90 factory warranty is over. Plus Dakmart prices are not that great, you can often find a authorized dealer that will sell you a new Denon product for very close to what Dakmart wants for a B-stock. And another thing to consider is, Dakmart also does not exactly have a real stellar reputation either.

When I got my "B"stock 3806 from Ecost last year I purchased an additional year warranty from the for I think $20. I figured it would give me protection until I can replace the 3806 with it's successor.

Hey aaronwt,
How was your experience with eCost and a B stock 3806? I ordered one from them today and should be here by tomorrow. It seems there are tons of horror stories with them and was curious to know how yours went and how your 3806 has worked. Couldn't pass up the deal they have for them.

Hey aaronwt,
How was your experience with eCost and a B stock 3806? I ordered one from them today and should be here by tomorrow. It seems there are tons of horror stories with them and was curious to know how yours went and how your 3806 has worked. Couldn't pass up the deal they have for them.My experience with A stock repairs (thus it becomes B stock) is that they're never close to 90% fixed. They only fix it to the point where it's good enough.

Is the 3806 able to perform bass management on the analog multichannel inputs?
(H/K receivers usually can, but a lot of receivers can not.)
With "analog multichannel inputs" I mean the "EXT. IN terminals". I looked in the manual, but couldn't find a clear answer.

http://usa.denon.com/AVR3806DFU.pdf

Anybody?

No it doesn't perform bass management. I have a Denon 2200 SACD/DVD-A player connected to my 3806 and I have to use the Denon for bass management. At least now with the PS3 I can use that for SACD playback over HDMI which sounds much better tahn over the analog inputs.

I purchased my first home theater system after a **LOT** of research. Got the AVR 3806 and a complete KEF xQ speaker package (xQ5 as fronts, xQ2C center and xQ1 as surrounds).

Plugged in the power to the receiver and it made a loud noise (gun shot sound). I also noticed the electic smell. The receiver then powered up and initialized and went into stand-by mode in about 5-6 seconds with the power indicator flashing red. This is with no speakers connected. So shorted circuit was ruled out. I unplugged the power and plugged in again, the receiver again initialized and automatically went into a stand-by mode with the power indicator flashing red. Repeated this several times but the 3806 refuses to stay on, it automatically shuts off by itself.

Any guess why this is happening? Search around the internet didnt reveal much, but for the fact that a few more owners have the same issue. Has my new receiver gone bad?

Please help!
Thanks.

I purchased my first home theater system after a **LOT** of research. Got the AVR 3806 and a complete KEF xQ speaker package (xQ5 as fronts, xQ2C center and xQ1 as surrounds).

Plugged in the power to the receiver and it made a loud noise (gun shot sound). I also noticed the electic smell. The receiver then powered up and initialized and went into stand-by mode in about 5-6 seconds with the power indicator flashing red. This is with no speakers connected. So shorted circuit was ruled out. I unplugged the power and plugged in again, the receiver again initialized and automatically went into a stand-by mode with the power indicator flashing red. Repeated this several times but the 3806 refuses to stay on, it automatically shuts off by itself.

Any guess why this is happening? Search around the internet didnt reveal much, but for the fact that a few more owners have the same issue. Has my new receiver gone bad?

Please help!
Thanks.

Have you tried to reinitialize the processor? I believe the 3806 has a failsafe in case a surge is detected.

I can't remember off of the top of my head what the process is, but the instructions are in the owners manual.

Thanks.! (why didnt I think about it... duh..) I will try that soon as I am home this evening. Anyway, I sent a request for a replacement unit. Will provide an update on what happens upon reinitializing the processor.

-cheers!

Really weird your description though!
Are you leaving in the US by chance?

Reason for asking you is that it came to mind that you could have plugged a 120v unit into a 220v outlet... Hopefuly not.

Good luck & keep us posted.

Cheers / Avliner.

Seeing how it seems near impossible to get a silver 4306 from an authorized dealer (B-stock or no), does anyone think I'd really be missing out anything by going for a 3806S instead? I don't own an iPod and so far only have one HDMI player (my PS3). The extra HDMI port does seem appealing for the future. My display (2005 60" XBR1 Sony SXRD) probably has HDMI 1.0 or 1.1 if I'm lucky.

I am still hoping for a 3808S announcement from Denon, but at this point wouldn't hurt to get some ducks in a row.

I tried reinitializing the processor in Denon 3806, but that didnt cure the problem. Yes, I am in the US and am using the proper power supply. Looks like I received a bad unit. I am receiving the replacement unit on the 15th of Jan, so I will sit tight until then...

Thanks for your help.

No it doesn't perform bass management. I have a Denon 2200 SACD/DVD-A player connected to my 3806 and I have to use the Denon for bass management. At least now with the PS3 I can use that for SACD playback over HDMI which sounds much better tahn over the analog inputs.


Are you getting mutlichannel sound on a sacd from your ps3 through the 3806? If you are, what settings are you using on the 3086.

The ps3 lets me select the multichannel track, but I'm not hearing multichannel, only stereo.

Thanks

Are you getting mutlichannel sound on a sacd from your ps3 through the 3806? If you are, what settings are you using on the 3086.

The ps3 lets me select the multichannel track, but I'm not hearing multichannel, only stereo.

Thanks

I know I can select stereo and get something like 188Khz pcm(Some odd number like that) And when I check multichannel the Denon shows it's receiving 6 channels of 88Khz pcm(some odd number around that)
With the denon 3806 I do run everything with DPLIIx but it also clearly shows how many channels you are receiving. I'm also running the PS3 straight into the 3806 before heading to my VP50.

Just picked up the Oppo DV-981 and hooked it up to my 3806 (HDMI-HDMI). I have an Optoma H78DC3 projector (HDCP compliant) into the receiver (DVI-HDMI). When I power up the 3806 & the Oppo, all is good and I have an audio signal. When I power on the H78, I lose the audio (signal) and get no video. Powering up the projector first does not change the behaviour.

What is odd, is that I can get the audio (only) back (with the projector powered on), if I click on the OSD or Setup. Once I exit OSD or Setup, however, I lose the audio. (When I power off the projector, the audio returns.)

I turned off all the upconvert options on the 3806, thinking this might cause the problem...based on what I read in this forum. I swapped out the HDMI-HDMI cable. I also just upgraded the Oppo to the latest (beta) firmware. Nothing changed. (I can get display if I connect the HDMI-DVI cable direct to the Oppo.)

I did have this configuration working at one point, so I tried a reset on the 3806...still no success. I'm waiting on a response from Denon (Canada) tech support.

Any ideas on what the problem might be?

Just picked up the Oppo DV-981 and hooked it up to my 3806 (HDMI-HDMI). I have an Optoma H78DC3 projector (HDCP compliant) into the receiver (DVI-HDMI). When I power up the 3806 & the Oppo, all is good and I have an audio signal. When I power on the H78, I lose the audio (signal) and get no video. Powering up the projector first does not change the behaviour.

What is odd, is that I can get the audio (only) back (with the projector powered on), if I click on the OSD or Setup. Once I exit OSD or Setup, however, I lose the audio. (When I power off the projector, the audio returns.)

I turned off all the upconvert options on the 3806, thinking this might cause the problem...based on what I read in this forum. I swapped out the HDMI-HDMI cable. I also just upgraded the Oppo to the latest (beta) firmware. Nothing changed. (I can get display if I connect the HDMI-DVI cable direct to the Oppo.)

I did have this configuration working at one point, so I tried a reset on the 3806...still no success. I'm waiting on a response from Denon (Canada) tech support.

Any ideas on what the problem might be?

There are many on this forum including myself that have the 981 going through the 3806 via HDMI with no problems. Maybe the implentation of HDCP in your monitor is not compliant with the use of a switching receiver? This would be similar to the problems many have expierienced with HDMI cable boxes - though those issues were caused by the cable box and not the TV...

I just bought a 3806. Regarding the subwoofer, I heard that there are two places need to be set to LFE+Main in order to use the subwoofer in connection with the front speakers. One is the setting for subwoofer, but I can not find out what is the other place that also needs to be set to LFE+Main. Can anyone help me on this? Thanks in advance!

I just bought a 3806. Regarding the subwoofer, I heard that there are two places need to be set to LFE+Main in order to use the subwoofer in connection with the front speakers. One is the setting for subwoofer, but I can not find out what is the other place that also needs to be set to LFE+Main. Can anyone help me on this? Thanks in advance!
Under "Advanced Playback" in the set-up menu, go to the settings for Two Channel Stereo/Direct and also set that for LFE and Main.

Under "Advanced Playback" in the set-up menu, go to the settings for Two Channel Stereo/Direct and also set that for LFE and Main.

S2silber, thank you very very much! The paper menu should win an award for being the most difficult menu to understand :(

Thanks to everyone here for this thread. Based on the information I learned here, I am now the proud owner of a Denon AVR-3806.

Just got it all hooked up and am fooling around..

The auto setup set my Fronts and center to Large, do you guys suggest leaving it there?

In home theater setups I have always put the speakers on Small and used a x-over setting of 80hz, in the past...

There are many on this forum including myself that have the 981 going through the 3806 via HDMI with no problems. Maybe the implentation of HDCP in your monitor is not compliant with the use of a switching receiver? This would be similar to the problems many have expierienced with HDMI cable boxes - though those issues were caused by the cable box and not the TV...

Thanks, tsax6010...that is certainly a possibility, although it is strange that it was working at one point. I was thinking that it was more likely an issue with the receiver.

Well, after tinkering around all day. I think I got everything just where it should be.

Just finished auditioning DTS' Blu-Ray 2007 CES Demo disc. WOW! This 3806 really is amazing, I am so glad I went this way. Those Burr-Browns make all the difference.

I spent all day on here reading everything here in this thread and on the Audyssey 3806 thread. Thanks to Chris from Audyssey! I was having a problem getting it sounding right and what I realized is, during the day around here there is just too much outside noise. Cars drving by, airplanes, helicopters, teenage kids Car stereo systems. These were all afftecting the way calibration, especially in the lower bass regions.

So, I did the Autosetup again, this time makign sure the outside noise was not interfering, required me waiting till midnight, and ever then I had the redo some of the positional readings a couple times, cause of outside disturbances. Anyhow, got it all set now.

The Audyssey kicks ass! Really opened up my 360 degree soundstage, and my little yamaha YST215 sounds so much better.

I live in an apartment, so I can't go too crazy. My next purchase will be a new sub, really looking at the SVS PB10-NSD or the HSU VTF-3 MK2.

Here is my setup

Mitsubishi WD-62725
Denon AVR3806
Sony PS3 via HDMI
Xbox 360 w/HD-DVD via Component
SA 8300HD via Component

Fronts - Polk R300 (Couldn't beat them at Frys Special Price)
Center - Polk CSi25
Rear Surround - Polk R150
Sub - Yamaha YST215


Black Hawk Down in uncompressed PCM was awesome, one of the main reasons I decided to get a new reciever. Can't wait to listen to some more PCM blu-ray movies.

I hope this XBOX360 rumor is true and they go with HDMI on a new model. Then I could pick up Dolby TrueHD from HD-DVD.

The remote does suck! Probably gonna get a Phillips RC9800i

Thanks eveyone for participating here, you made today alot of fun for me and setting up this 3806 was a breeze for me.

Hi, this may seem like a dumb question but i have been looking to upgrade from my 3805 to the 3806 but need some more "reasons" to, just to justify the price. I know it has a built in xm radio and 2 hdmi inputs but is that it. Im really happy with the 3805 but since i have 3 devices that need the multi-channel inputs (sony blu ray player, toshiba hd dvd, and sony sacd) i have decided that i need hdmi pretty badly. I was also wondering if the inputs can be customly labeled? It is getting pretty rediculous when my hd dvd player is on vcr 2 lol. I am also considering holding off until summer when the hdmi 1.3 receivers come out and maybe decide whether to get one of them or get a discounted 3806 or 4306.

Thanks in advance
John

Hi, this may seem like a dumb question but i have been looking to upgrade from my 3805 to the 3806 but need some more "reasons" to, just to justify the price. I know it has a built in xm radio and 2 hdmi inputs but is that it. Im really happy with the 3805 but since i have 3 devices that need the multi-channel inputs (sony blu ray player, toshiba hd dvd, and sony sacd) i have decided that i need hdmi pretty badly. I was also wondering if the inputs can be customly labeled? It is getting pretty rediculous when my hd dvd player is on vcr 2 lol. I am also considering holding off until summer when the hdmi 1.3 receivers come out and maybe decide whether to get one of them or get a discounted 3806 or 4306.

Thanks in advance
John

Yes, you can custom-label inputs on the 3806.

The other main feature on the 3806 (vs 3805) is Audyssey equalization. It's turned off on my 3806 because I found that it severely limits output volume in certain cases (forget about rattling the walls -- I have had problems hearing dialogues during movies because the volume would max out). Your mileage may vary, of course -- some folks swear by Audyssey.

It sounds like you only need to switch 2 HDMI inputs (HD-DVD and Blu-Ray) for now. I don't know whether the "Sony SACD" also does DVD-Audio (if it does, it can also be connected through HDMI for DVD-Audio). However, you cannot use HDMI for SACD due to DRM restrictions -- you'll have to connect it via analog outputs. So, in theory the 3806 would work for you. However, a cheaper alternative might be to buy an external HDMI switcher (such as Gefen) and to wait for future receivers that can handle the new multichannel HD audio formats for HD-DVD and Blu-Ray. Future high-end receivers are likely to have more than 2 HDMI inputs, and that would save you another expensive upgrade in a few years!

Hi, this may seem like a dumb question but i have been looking to upgrade from my 3805 to the 3806 but need some more "reasons" to, just to justify the price. I know it has a built in xm radio and 2 hdmi inputs but is that it. Im really happy with the 3805 but since i have 3 devices that need the multi-channel inputs (sony blu ray player, toshiba hd dvd, and sony sacd) i have decided that i need hdmi pretty badly. I was also wondering if the inputs can be customly labeled? It is getting pretty rediculous when my hd dvd player is on vcr 2 lol. I am also considering holding off until summer when the hdmi 1.3 receivers come out and maybe decide whether to get one of them or get a discounted 3806 or 4306.

Thanks in advance
John


If you have the patience to wait, it will be worth it. Denon has already said that their new recievers will include HDMI 1.3 and the new codecs, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD. Available in the summer this year. I would imagine CEDIA will be a good show this year for the new HDMI 1.3 Recievers with the new codecs.

Agreed!!

Thats what im banking on, but if im mistaken, in the interviews with denon it appeared that only the really high end receivers would havd dts hd/dolby true hd decoding. If thats the case i might have to look elsewhere or just wait even longer. Oh well, i guess it will be interesting to see what happens.

Yes, you can custom-label inputs on the 3806.

The other main feature on the 3806 (vs 3805) is Audyssey equalization. It's turned off on my 3806 because I found that it severely limits output volume in certain cases (forget about rattling the walls -- I have had problems hearing dialogues during movies because the volume would max out). Your mileage may vary, of course -- some folks swear by Audyssey.

It sounds like you only need to switch 2 HDMI inputs (HD-DVD and Blu-Ray) for now. I don't know whether the "Sony SACD" also does DVD-Audio (if it does, it can also be connected through HDMI for DVD-Audio). However, you cannot use HDMI for SACD due to DRM restrictions -- you'll have to connect it via analog outputs. So, in theory the 3806 would work for you. However, a cheaper alternative might be to buy an external HDMI switcher (such as Gefen) and to wait for future receivers that can handle the new multichannel HD audio formats for HD-DVD and Blu-Ray. Future high-end receivers are likely to have more than 2 HDMI inputs, and that would save you another expensive upgrade in a few years!

Thanks for the tip, and thats pretty much what i was leaning toward. For now im going to use the analog inputs on my receiver for the sony blu ray player and temporarily have my sacd player disconnected since i hardly have much of a collection and love the uncompressed pcm on blu ray. The toshiba hd dvd has analog outputs but i have a smaller hd dvd collection then blu ray. Also I dont think an hdmi switch would help me unless it had some sort of DAC built in with mulit channel analog outputs lol because thank god my tv has 3 hdmi inputs.

Ps i was also considering a ps3 purchase but i dont believe i would run that through A receiver unless it had 2 hdmi OUTputs because i like to have different calibration settings for video games.

Thanks again
John

Agreed!!

Thats what im banking on, but if im mistaken, in the interviews with denon it appeared that only the really high end receivers would havd dts hd/dolby true hd decoding. If thats the case i might have to look elsewhere or just wait even longer. Oh well, i guess it will be interesting to see what happens.

I was at CES. Check out the upcoming Sherewood line. I was very impressed with their "high end." Look for their top of the line to have 6 HDMI inputs 1.3 and the next down the chain for 4. They will also do all the advanced audio codecs. Even though I am a Denon guy I am seriously looking at both of the receivers to replace my 3806 when it is time to buy. The price for either of these will be considerably less than Denon with these features.

I was at CES. Check out the upcoming Sherewood line. I was very impressed with their "high end." Look for their top of the line to have 6 HDMI inputs 1.3 and the next down the chain for 4. They will also do all the advanced audio codecs. Even though I am a Denon guy I am seriously looking at both of the receivers to replace my 3806 when it is time to buy. The price for either of these will be considerably less than Denon with these features.

Yea i was overlooking the sherwood line. I figure with denon and sherwood announcing hdmi 1.3 with advanced audio codecs that more companys will follow suit. However i guess i might have to check them out anyways. Afterall sherwood makes some good hockey sticks. :D

Yea i was overlooking the sherwood line. I figure with denon and sherwood announcing hdmi 1.3 with advanced audio codecs that more companys will follow suit. However i guess i might have to check them out anyways. Afterall sherwood makes some good hockey sticks. :D

Got me LOL. You know I had never considered their line but I was impressed with their units that they did have at CES. I am seriously considering.

Got me LOL. You know I had never considered their line but I was impressed with their units that they did have at CES. I am seriously considering.
I've always heard Sherwood was pretty good stuff, did you happen to notice if any of the AVRs had IEEE1394(firewire)? I walked right by their booth and didn't even think to look...way too much stuff at that show to see it all, or even half of it. :p

I've always heard Sherwood was pretty good stuff, did you happen to notice if any of the AVRs had IEEE1394(firewire)? I walked right by their booth and didn't even think to look...way too much stuff at that show to see it all, or even half of it. :p

It was just a quirk that I stopped by, the units looked that good. I was more interested in the HDMI caps. I wouldn't be surprised if firewire was enabled but wasn't a priority for me. Definitely worth checking out further.

Please let me know your thought of how much does 3806 should cost now, knowing that it is a discontinued model?
Thanks!
Kev

I didn't know the 3806 has been discontinued. When was this?

Since last month..

Wow, you couldn't tell by visiting the various etailers or Denon's site.

I'm about decided on a 3806S (though have lingering desires for a 4306S)... Wonder if we'll see a 3808CI before June...

Well, I think you could tell that this model was coming to the end of its model life. Major retailers were having sales (e.g. tweeter, magnolia). Sites that sell b-stock or overstock were offering units at good prices (e.g. second act, etc.). Looks like the 3808 and other units are mid-year timing.

Does anyone have "Denon 3806 for Dummies"?
Just finished building my stand and connecting everything and I have some problems. Read the manual several times and have spent hours on this thread.
I'll just throw out a few at a time:
#1. when doing the auto setup, when I connected my rear ceiling surrounds to "surround B" (which is closer to the diagram on page 6 than "surround A) Denon would not detect them - I had to connect to "surround A".
#2. Then it said my front left, right and center were out of phase when they were connected correctly. I have JBLs (Northridge). The table on page 13 says this may occur with some speakers "If so, select "Skip<"" I could not find a skip option. I had to reverse the connections on all 3 speakers to continue with the automatic setup mode. Any suggestions other than go manual? Note it also listed all 5 of my speakers as "Large".
#3. I have an optical cable from my TV (JVC Pro) to OPT1 and assigned. I also have RCA cables from my TV to the TV audio input on the 3806. when I'm watching from my TV's digital (OTA) tuner everything is fine as I understand it uses the optical digital input. However I get no sound when using the analog tuner (cable) which should use the RCA inputs. Any ideas?
#4. Finally, when I am watching OTA HD Dolby Digital, if I have it set to Dolby Digital I get almost 0 out of the surrounds (even when I increased the rears 3-4db); if I use the 7CH stereo button on the front pannel, I get full room sound but I think this is DSP surround simulation (pg 40). Any idea what I'm doing wrong??

Does anyone have "Denon 3806 for Dummies"?
Just finished building my stand and connecting everything and I have some problems. Read the manual several times and have spent hours on this thread.
I'll just throw out a few at a time:
#1. when doing the auto setup, when I connected my rear ceiling surrounds to "surround B" (which is closer to the diagram on page 6 than "surround A) Denon would not detect them - I had to connect to "surround A".
#2. Then it said my front left, right and center were out of phase when they were connected correctly. I have JBLs (Northridge). The table on page 13 says this may occur with some speakers "If so, select "Skip<"" I could not find a skip option. I had to reverse the connections on all 3 speakers to continue with the automatic setup mode. Any suggestions other than go manual? Note it also listed all 5 of my speakers as "Large".
#3. I have an optical cable from my TV (JVC Pro) to OPT1 and assigned. I also have RCA cables from my TV to the TV audio input on the 3806. when I'm watching from my TV's digital (OTA) tuner everything is fine as I understand it uses the optical digital input. However I get no sound when using the analog tuner (cable) which should use the RCA inputs. Any ideas?
#4. Finally, when I am watching OTA HD Dolby Digital, if I have it set to Dolby Digital I get almost 0 out of the surrounds (even when I increased the rears 3-4db); if I use the 7CH stereo button on the front pannel, I get full room sound but I think this is DSP surround simulation (pg 40). Any idea what I'm doing wrong??



1# did you have 2 sets of rear speakers? The only reason to use Surround B, is if you have a pair of Surround A speakers and Surround B speakers. this is possible, but very unlikey in most situations. So since auto setup didn't detect them on B is no surprise t me. Having them on A is the way it should be. Forget the diagram, it is confusing.

2# Some speakers have crossover settings that will show up to the "Auto setup" as out of phase... Even though you think everythign is hooked up right, double check it at the reciever again. If not, your solution will get the autosetup through that part, but immidiately switch them back, so the rest of the tests are doen right.

3# when your on TV mode, the reciever is only looking for the Opt 1, this could be becasue it is set to that as a default. You should switch it to Auto select for the audio input. This button is located on the front panel.

4# I hear this alot, people some times think that the surrounds should be active all the time. The surround channels are rarely used, they are just for effects and ambient fill. If you put it on 7CH Stereo, and they come on then everything is right. Leave it on Dolby Digital and watch a DVD with alot of special effects. I bet you hear them alot more.

Hope this helps.

Well, I think you could tell that this model was coming to the end of its model life. Major retailers were having sales (e.g. tweeter, magnolia). Sites that sell b-stock or overstock were offering units at good prices (e.g. second act, etc.). Looks like the 3808 and other units are mid-year timing.

I must have missed these. I've been hitting Magnolia semi-regularly, but I usually check for the 4306. :( No Tweeter nearby, though. Their site doesn't even show the 3806 only the 4306 and it's MSRP.

My local Tweeter got the last one in their store (displace model) for $900 + tax. I cheated by put in the deposit of 10% so they put it back in the warehouse and hopefully that the price would drop lower over time. Good luck hunting gentlemen.
Kev.

What's a "displace" model?

What's a "displace" model?
I think he mistyped display. I would love to located a refurb of this unit, eCost has them listed for a really good price but none in stock. I check them everyday, multiple times throughout the day.

Just get one online from Costco, they still have the 3806 available. And you can't beat the Costco warranty.