Denon 3806 Owners Thread

[john stephens]

Can someone hlep me out. I updated the software on the 3806. I put in Descent, selected 7.1 PCM out on my Philips player. BUT the 3806 only shows 5.1 PCM both in the front panel display and again when I hit "status."

I did enable the back surround channels in the setup. Is there a hidden menu that I haven't found to enable 7.1?

Thanks!

I can confirm that the new firmware enables 7.1 PCM. I did have to spend a fair amount of time getting the 3806 set up properly. I don't know if I can clearly explain how to set things up. But basically you need to set up the Surround parameters as explained on pages 33-35 in the Manual All of this will lead to enabling the back surrounds properly.

[iove]

I can confirm that the new firmware enables 7.1 PCM. I did have to spend a fair amount of time getting the 3806 set up properly. I don't know if I can clearly explain how to set things up. But basically you need to set up the Surround parameters as explained on pages 33-35 in the Manual All of this will lead to enabling the back surrounds properly.

Thanks..I tried those things and doesn't quite work. I'm beginning to suspect that maybe my player can't output 7.1? Just to be clear, I was able to enable the 3806 to output 7.1. I was not able to get it to receive/recognize 7.1 from the player.

I have a Philips which is similar to Samsung and I found a post where he was not able to output 7.1.

Just out of curiousity, what player do you use? Anyone use a Samsung/Philips with their 3806? Or could it be the generic HDMI cable isn't able to handle the extra two cables?

[john stephens]

Thanks..I tried those things and doesn't quite work. I'm beginning to suspect that maybe my player can't output 7.1? Just to be clear, I was able to enable the 3806 to output 7.1. I was not able to get it to receive/recognize 7.1 from the player.

I have a Philips which is similar to Samsung and I found a post where he was not able to output 7.1.

Just out of curiousity, what player do you use? Anyone use a Samsung/Philips with their 3806? Or could it be the generic HDMI cable isn't able to handle the extra two cables?

That's probably what's wrong. I am using a Sony BD player. I also own a Samsung player but am currently using it in my bedroom.

[iove]

That's probably what's wrong. I am using a Sony BD player. I also own a Samsung player but am currently using it in my bedroom.


Thanks again. Apparently, it was the player. I picked up the Sony and it outputs an extra channel.

[tsax6010]

Your quote says that it remembers it for the surround modes which is what mine is doing. The tuner or CD would be 2.0 which for me I don't use PLIIx with it so mine also retains the different settings. but "Personal Mempry Plus is a function that allows a receiver to store the surround modes.." is what it remembers, not the individual inputs. Although I think it woul\d make more sense to remember the surround modes for each individual input, not just the surround modes.


The quote from Denon also states that the "level settings for all speakers" are retained. That is the feature that works as stated on the 1906 but does not work on the 3806.

[GCS]

So based on this new firmware I guess it makes the 3806 a better option to go with instead of a 2807??

Greg

[tsax6010]

So based on this new firmware I guess it makes the 3806 a better option to go with instead of a 2807??

Greg


I would have come to that conclusion even without the firmware update. The 3806 just sounds better to my ears.

[Dutchman01]

I would have come to that conclusion even without the firmware update. The 3806 just sounds better to my ears.

Yes it does sound better not only to your ears.
the 4306 sound again better than the 3806.

[tsax6010]

Yes it does sound better not only to your ears.
the 4306 sound again better than the 3806.


Exactly what I am saying.

The firmware update is a mute point in the decision.

[kidziti]

Exactly what I am saying.

The firmware update is a mute point in the decision.

:rolleyes: Actually, that should be a moot point. A mute point is the same as the original point, but 40 dB quieter.

[tsax6010]

:rolleyes: Actually, that should be a moot point. A mute point is the same as the original point, but 40 dB quieter.

:p

Sorry - I forgot we were being graded for silly grammatical errors.

[Dundas]

Has anyone successfully done a firmware upgrade using a USB to serial adapter? I am having trouble finding a laptop I can borrow that has a serial port and is running XP.

[a_ok2me]

I'd translate, but I don't know German.

You could type in sections to babelfish on altavista.

as far as directions... I connected the receiver to my computer's serial port, I ran the installer, double clicked the icon it placed on my desktop, selected the correct serial port, clicked the check communication button... after that it popped up a dialog that communication was OK, I clicked update and waited maybe 15 minutes for it to finish.

I didn't find it terribly difficult... though I'd advise that if you're so uncomfortable with the process of updating the firmware that you want the instructions translated, maybe you should wait until the US version is released and send your unit in.Well...I just did it but it did not work for me. Communications check was OK. Receiver OFF. But, when I hit update, I get the message:

Target: MAIN
Process: Setting of baud rate
Error: Processing-regulation outside error!

Then another message box stating, "Communication error!"

I'm using Windows Vista, so I'm not sure if that has anything to do with it.

Edit: Correction - com check 'OK' referred to my unused 56K modem. It can't seem to find any COM port connected to the 3806.

[a_ok2me]

Well...I just did it but it did not work for me. Communications check was OK. Receiver OFF. But, when I hit update, I get the message:

Target: MAIN
Process: Setting of baud rate
Error: Processing-regulation outside error!

Then another message box stating, "Communication error!"

I'm using Windows Vista, so I'm not sure if that has anything to do with it.

Edit: Correction - com check 'OK' referred to my unused 56K modem. It can't seem to find any COM port connected to the 3806.Tried it again with the 3806 ON. I tried COM1 and I get:

Target: MAIN
Process: Connestion with target
Error: Communication timeout error!

COM2 and 4 - 8 did not work. I just get a "Communication error!" message.
COM3 is the unused modem.

[aaronwt]

Assuming the cable is fine I'll bet it's because you're using Vista.
And the 3806 needs to be on when you start the upgrade process if I remember correctly.

[a_ok2me]

Assuming the cable is fine I'll bet it's because you're using Vista.
And the 3806 needs to be on when you start the upgrade process if I remember correctly.At this point, it could be either the cable or Vista. I'm using a null serial cable with a male to female adapter. I'm going to try a normal serial cable tomorrow. As for Vista, I really don't like it. I'm going to have to upgrade my motherboard, CPU, memory and video card. The Apple commercial where PC goes in for surgery is entirely true. The other one where PC has his body guard confirms and double-confirms to make sure he was sure the first time around is also entirely true.

As for ON/OFF, there are mixed instructions here where some are saying OFF and others are saying ON. Logically thinking, I'd have to believe it has to be on in order for the communication to reciprocate.

[aaronwt]

If I remember correctly when you start the upgrade it goes into standby mode.
I think it's supposed to be a Null Modem cable. I used the serial cable that I use for my VP50 firmware upgrades.(it was included with the VP50) I think that is a Null Modem cable but I'm not entirely sure.

[a_ok2me]

If I remember correctly when you start the upgrade it goes into standby mode.
I think it's supposed to be a Null Modem cable. I used the serial cable that I use for my VP50 firmware upgrades.(it was included with the VP50) I think that is a Null Modem cable but I'm not entirely sure.Then maybe it's a Vista thing. I'll see tonight if a regular serial cable works. There's no gender changer involved with that route.

[madpoet]

Aaron, that's really funny... this morning before reading your post I was looking at the cable that I just used to upgrade my VP50 and said Hm... I bet this would work!

[keenan]

Aaron, that's really funny... this morning before reading your post I was looking at the cable that I just used to upgrade my VP50 and said Hm... I bet this would work!
Really, I'm glad he said that as this talk about cables starting me wondering if I had the right one, but if it's the same cable he uses for the VP50 I'm good to go. :)

[Dundas]

I think you need a straight cable not a null modem cable. The Babelfish translation of the German directions is “Connect a Straight Cable with the PC” and in post #1960 TN_Polk_Lover’s directions refer to a straight cable.

[avaserfi]

So after much time wasted reading the 3806 manual and trying to search for something online I have found this forum.

I just recently bought a denon 3806 and was planning on running my dvd player oppo DV-981HD via hdmi and Wii via component to the AV receiver and then use one hdmi cable to run everything to my vizio vp42.

After toying with the hdmi settings for a while I successfully got the oppo working perfectly through the receiver, but I cannot seem to get the Wii to play audio. Currently I do not have speakers (they are on order). So I have my hdmi sound set to tv, not amp.

Right now the wii is plugged in to RGB IN 1 which is set to VCR-1 and that is exactly where the RCA (red and white) plugs are put in too. I just dont know what settings I need to change to get the audio playing as well. When I set the receiver on VCR-1 the video shows up perfectly but I never hear any audio.

Thanks,

Andrew

[aaronwt]

You need to go into the setup menu and assign that audio input with that specific video input. At least that's how it works with the digital inputs and 7.1 analog input.

[avaserfi]

aaronwt,

when looking through the audio input menu my only options are coax and opt neither of which are what I am using. Didnt see any options for anything in regards to the red/white inputs. Do you know where i could find that?

[a_ok2me]

Then maybe it's a Vista thing. I'll see tonight if a regular serial cable works. There's no gender changer involved with that route.A regular serial cable f/m worked. Well...it seems to work. Every setting I have is lost, so I can't really do much to test anything.

I believe this is the consolidated instruction from various posts:
1. Extract the setup files from the Firmware_3806.rar file to a desired directory.
2. Run the FWCV_AVR3806_V0027_SETUP.exe setup program to install application.
3. Connect the female/male serial cable from the PC to the 3806.
4. Turn ON the receiver.
5. Run the FWCV_AVR3806_V0027.exe file.
6. Hit the [Check communication] button. I believe it cycles through all the coms.
7. Select a com and hit the [Update] button. Cycle through all the com for one that works. You should see some prompt boxes showing the status.
8. Wait for the receiver to do it's thing, such as turn on/off/on.
9. A final prompt box should say similar to, "Update is complete".
10. Hit the [Quit] button.

Anything else between 1-9 means it didn't work correctly.

[tsax6010]

So after much time wasted reading the 3806 manual and trying to search for something online I have found this forum.

I just recently bought a denon 3806 and was planning on running my dvd player oppo DV-981HD via hdmi and Wii via component to the AV receiver and then use one hdmi cable to run everything to my vizio vp42.

After toying with the hdmi settings for a while I successfully got the oppo working perfectly through the receiver, but I cannot seem to get the Wii to play audio. Currently I do not have speakers (they are on order). So I have my hdmi sound set to tv, not amp.

Right now the wii is plugged in to RGB IN 1 which is set to VCR-1 and that is exactly where the RCA (red and white) plugs are put in too. I just dont know what settings I need to change to get the audio playing as well. When I set the receiver on VCR-1 the video shows up perfectly but I never hear any audio.

Thanks,

Andrew

With the remote control in AMP mode, try using the INPUT soft button until the display on the Denon says ANALOG

[avaserfi]

With the remote control in AMP mode, try using the INPUT soft button until the display on the Denon says ANALOG


Just tried that and I got nothing. Is some setting wrong? or does the 3806 not pass through rca through hdmi?

thanks

[john stephens]

With the remote control in AMP mode, try using the INPUT soft button until the display on the Denon says ANALOG

The 3806 will not insert the Audio onto the HDMI output in this case. Nor would you expect it to since it is far more capable as an AMP than any TV. In a case like yours, you have two options:

1. Run all you Wii outputs directly to the TV(Component and Audio).

2. Buy a set of low cost speakers which would out perform the TV and still not bankrupt you. Do an Inet search for a pair of Yamaha NS-333, as an example of a good performing low cost speaker(~ $120 per pair). Then you can play both sources through the 3806. I think you 'll be glad you made this purchase

[avaserfi]

The 3806 will not insert the Audio onto the HDMI output in this case. Nor would you expect it to since it is far more capable as an AMP than any TV. In a case like yours, you have two options:

1. Run all you Wii outputs directly to the TV(Component and Audio).

2. Buy a set of low cost speakers which would out perform the TV and still not bankrupt you. Do an Inet search for a pair of Yamaha NS-333, as an example of a good performing low cost speaker(~ $120 per pair). Then you can play both sources through the 3806. I think you 'll be glad you made this purchase

I was just trying to find a temporary solution. I have a 5.1 set of Jamo E7 series speakers on the way but I have to wait until may to get them. Until then Ill just choose option 1.

Thanks for clearing this up for me john.

[jg3784]

A regular serial cable f/m worked. Well...it seems to work. Every setting I have is lost, so I can't really do much to test anything.

I believe this is the consolidated instruction from various posts:
1. Extract the setup files from the Firmware_3806.rar file to a desired directory.
2. Run the FWCV_AVR3806_V0027_SETUP.exe setup program to install application.
3. Connect the female/male serial cable from the PC to the 3806.
4. Turn ON the receiver.
5. Run the FWCV_AVR3806_V0027.exe file.
6. Hit the [Check communication] button. I believe it cycles through all the coms.
7. Select a com and hit the [Update] button. Cycle through all the com for one that works. You should see some prompt boxes showing the status.
8. Wait for the receiver to do it's thing, such as turn on/off/on.
9. A final prompt box should say similar to, "Update is complete".
10. Hit the [Quit] button.

Anything else between 1-9 means it didn't work correctly.

One more piece of information for the consolidated instructions that may be of help to those running the Denon 3806 firmware software update.

The update software erases the previous firmware information in each of the three sections Main, Sub and DSP sequentially before installation of the new firmware. Consequently, I ran into lots of update timeouts before I discovered that the com port FIFO buffer on my laptop needed to be decreased. My update failed initially for the DSP section of the update after completing the Main and SUB sections of the update. A firmware check indicated that I had updated the Main and Sub sections to versions 00.76 and 00.56 respectively but the DSP section still indicated the prior version 00.43. After I adjusted the com port buffer and rebooted my laptop I was able to continue the process and update the DSP section to the updated version 00.45.

Trouble shooting the timeouts and the "no good" (NG) com port connections that aren't discussed in the German language instructions involved way more time than 10 minutes and maybe some people may just want the local Denon service center to handle the update when it's finally released to the USA. At one point, I feared that the failed installations had "bricked" my 3806! So be careful when attempting this update at home.

I am happy to report that my 3806 digital sound processing appears to be improved after this update. I may be wrong, but I noticed last night that a PCM indicator light now glows on the 3806 display from the input signal of my Sony blu-ray and Toshiba HD-DVD players. The sound quality of the dynamic range seems better also. Much smoother- I used to have the remote handy previously to smooth out the crescendos of various movie soundtracks. This is a subjective observation on this update. After this firmware update and what I've read on other posts in this thread, I'm happy that I purchased the Denon AVR 3806 instead of the 2807 last summer.

[Dundas]

Successfully updated my firmware using USB to Serial adapter (Monoprice Product ID 2067 which is made by Prolific Technology).
Changes from default port settings I used were:
Bits per Second – 115200
and under Advanced:
Receive Buffer – 8
Transmit Buffer – 10

[MaDequipment]

Hello there, purchased by system about 3 months ago and came upon this thread. I was skimming this thread and saw many references to a firmware upgrade. What does the update do for my 3806? Also, how can I check if I even need to update my 3806.

This was in a separate thread that was unanswered, but I would like to know if it is okay to use a fan with the 3806. Is there any harm to using a fan to get ventilation (click on my signature to view my theater)? I am afraid that using a fan may trick the amp into not using its own cooling systsem which could cause an issue?

[Dundas]

Hello there, purchased by system about 3 months ago and came upon this thread. I was skimming this thread and saw many references to a firmware upgrade. What does the update do for my 3806? Also, how can I check if I even need to update my 3806.

This was in a separate thread that was unanswered, but I would like to know if it is okay to use a fan with the 3806. Is there any harm to using a fan to get ventilation (click on my signature to view my theater)? I am afraid that using a fan may trick the amp into not using its own cooling systsem which could cause an issue?

Post #1991 tells you how to check your firmware version.

The only downside to using a fan is noise. The 3806 has only passive cooling, there is nothing to trick.

[MaDequipment]

These were my results for my 3806:
Main Ver00.76
Sub Ver00.56
DSP Ver00.45

What does this mean? Is there any reason why I would need to go through with this update?

[Dundas]

No, you have the same versions as the update.

[MaDequipment]

I've been scouring this thread a bit more and from what I can tell this update has to do with the new sound formats. If this is so, can anyone explain to me how the new bluray/hddvd players are supposed to transfer them from HDMI 1.3 to the Denon's 1.1?

[tsax6010]

I've been scouring this thread a bit more and from what I can tell this update has to do with the new sound formats. If this is so, can anyone explain to me how the new bluray/hddvd players are supposed to transfer them from HDMI 1.3 to the Denon's 1.1?

The firmware upgrade should not have anything to do with the newer DD and DTS sound formats.

HD-DVD and Blueray players will have to handle the audio decoding onboard and pass the decoded audio to the 3806 via PCM.

[mbalari]

Dear Friends:
Soon I will be buying a new AV Reciver, my doubt es which one is the best choice on Denon, the new 2807 or the 3806, for you to have a reference my speakers are Polk RTi, 5.1
Best?,,, All
Sound quality

Video Quality

construction

Feature count

Connections

Regards and Thanks :)

[aaronwt]

There will be newer versions, the 2808 and 3808ci, coming out this Summer. You might want to wait.

[mbalari]

There will be newer versions, the 2808 and 3808ci, coming out this Summer. You might want to wait.

OK, but the new AVR are comming to my country, next year..................
Today I have only two options 2807 or 3806.

I´ll be happy if you respond me as soon as possible.

Mario

[john stephens]

Dear Friends:
Soon I will be buying a new AV Reciver, my doubt es which one is the best choice on Denon, the new 2807 or the 3806, for you to have a reference my speakers are Polk RTi, 5.1
Best?,,, All
Sound quality

Video Quality

construction

Feature count

Connections

Regards and Thanks :)

The 3806 is the more expensive unit with more speaker output power(I think 120 Watts compared to 110 Watts for the 2807). slightly more upscale in the Denon product line. On the other hand, the 2807 is a year or so newer and had more updated firmware with fewer initial bugs. The firmware short falls of the 3806 have been fixed with ver 76 that folks are currently discussing.

Video quality: Same

Construction: Very similar but the 3806 will have heavier/larger heat sinks on account of it's higher power dissipation.

Feature Count: The 3806 has the Denon link feature which is not included on the 2807, otherwise the features are similar.

Connections: they both have the same connections. And they both require speakers with 6Ohms or more. Output power rated at 8 Ohm.

This is from memory, so I apologize for any mistakes in advance.

[keenan]

Ilink? You mean DenonLink?

[john stephens]

Ilink? You mean DenonLink?

Yes! Freudian slip.

[keenan]

:D

[Sifford]

Has anyone successfully done a firmware upgrade using a USB to serial adapter? I am having trouble finding a laptop I can borrow that has a serial port and is running XP.

I was able to upgrade mine without any issues.....

[Erik Garci]

Dear Friends:
Soon I will be buying a new AV Reciver, my doubt es which one is the best choice on Denon, the new 2807 or the 3806
Here is a list I made almost a year ago when I was comparing them.

Differences:

2807 has ZONE2 audio outs. 3806 has ZONE2 and ZONE3 audio outs.
2807 has Front A+B speaker outs. 3806 has Surround A+B speaker outs.
2807 has 110 wpc. 3806 has 120 wpc.
2807 has RC-1030 remote. 3806 has RC-1024 remote.
2807 has Video Select button on front panel but not on remote control. 3806 has it on both front panel and remote control.
2807 has 24/192 Analog Devices AD-1835 DAC. 3806 has 24/192 Burr-Brown PCM-1791 DAC.
2807 has 24/96 ADC. 3806 has 24/192 Burr-Brown PCM-1804 ADC.
2807 has AL24 Processing Plus on Front Left and Right channels. 3806 has AL24 Processing Plus on all channels.


2807 Exclusives:

Dock Control for iPod.
Radio Data System (RDS).
Upconversion from 480i/576i component/S-video/composite to 480p/576p HDMI.


3806 Exclusives:

Denon Link III for DVD-A (and SACD ready).
Dynamic Discrete Surround Circuit – D.D.S.C. - Digital - Circuit.
HDCD decoder.


Feel free to add anything or point out any mistakes.

[mbalari]

Here is a list I made almost a year ago when I was comparing them.

Differences:

2807 has ZONE2 audio outs. 3806 has ZONE2 and ZONE3 audio outs.
2807 has Front A+B speaker outs. 3806 has Surround A+B speaker outs.
2807 has 110 wpc. 3806 has 120 wpc.
2807 has RC-1030 remote. 3806 has RC-1024 remote.
2807 has Video Select button on front panel but not on remote control. 3806 has it on both front panel and remote control.
2807 has 24/192 Analog Devices AD-1835 DAC. 3806 has 24/192 Burr-Brown PCM-1791 DAC.
2807 has 24/96 ADC. 3806 has 24/192 Burr-Brown PCM-1804 ADC.
2807 has AL24 Processing Plus on Front Left and Right channels. 3806 has AL24 Processing Plus on all channels.


2807 Exclusives:

Dock Control for iPod.
Radio Data System (RDS).
Upconversion from 480i/576i component/S-video/composite to 480p/576p HDMI.


3806 Exclusives:

Denon Link III for DVD-A (and SACD ready).
Dynamic Discrete Surround Circuit – D.D.S.C. - Digital - Circuit.
HDCD decoder.


Feel free to add anything or point out any mistakes.

At the same price which one could I bougth. :)

[aaronwt]

OK, but the new AVR are comming to my country, next year..................
Today I have only two options 2807 or 3806.

I´ll be happy if you respond me as soon as possible.

Mario

Well I had a 3805 then purchased a 2807. It sounded good but slightly inferior to the 3805. So I found a refurb 3806 on Ecost and sold my 2807. Now with the firmware upgrade for the 3806 that enabled 7.1 pcm over HDMI, I won't be looking for a replacement until next year. Without the 7.1 pcm I would be looking at the new Denon receivers.

[a_ok2me]

My 3806 is connected to my sound card via optical and the sound card is supposedly able to output 7.1 channels at 192KHz. However, I only get 2.1 channels from the 3806. If I switch my sound card to 96KHz, the 3806 is able to output at 7.1 channels. Does anyone know if the 3806 is able accept 7.1 channels at 192KHz from my sound card?

I did the firmware upgrade hoping it would allow the 3806 to accept 7.1 channels at 192KHZ, but it doesn't seem to work.

[aaronwt]

No it doesn't do 8 channels at 192khz. It will do 8 channels at up to 96khz.

[a_ok2me]

No it doesn't do 8 channels at 192khz. It will do 8 channels at up to 96khz.Thanks. I could have sworn I read that somewhere, but I thought I either I don't remember where or was imagining it.

[ezervoud]

I did the firmware update as well and wanted to thank the "Dutch" for providing it :)

[Dutchman01]

I did the firmware update as well and wanted to thank the "Dutch" for providing it :)

Your Welcome.

[mbalari]

Here is a list I made almost a year ago when I was comparing them.

Differences:

2807 has ZONE2 audio outs. 3806 has ZONE2 and ZONE3 audio outs.
2807 has Front A+B speaker outs. 3806 has Surround A+B speaker outs.
2807 has 110 wpc. 3806 has 120 wpc.
2807 has RC-1030 remote. 3806 has RC-1024 remote.
2807 has Video Select button on front panel but not on remote control. 3806 has it on both front panel and remote control.
2807 has 24/192 Analog Devices AD-1835 DAC. 3806 has 24/192 Burr-Brown PCM-1791 DAC.
2807 has 24/96 ADC. 3806 has 24/192 Burr-Brown PCM-1804 ADC.
2807 has AL24 Processing Plus on Front Left and Right channels. 3806 has AL24 Processing Plus on all channels.


2807 Exclusives:

Dock Control for iPod.
Radio Data System (RDS).
Upconversion from 480i/576i component/S-video/composite to 480p/576p HDMI.


3806 Exclusives:

Denon Link III for DVD-A (and SACD ready).
Dynamic Discrete Surround Circuit – D.D.S.C. - Digital - Circuit.
HDCD decoder.


Feel free to add anything or point out any mistakes.



One more question, do you recomend me BI-Ampling on this AVR? I have Front Speakers Polk RTI10.
I´ll be waiting for your answer. TKS

[s2silber]

Here is a list I made almost a year ago when I was comparing them.

Differences:

2807 has ZONE2 audio outs. 3806 has ZONE2 and ZONE3 audio outs.
2807 has Front A+B speaker outs. 3806 has Surround A+B speaker outs.
2807 has 110 wpc. 3806 has 120 wpc.
2807 has RC-1030 remote. 3806 has RC-1024 remote.
2807 has Video Select button on front panel but not on remote control. 3806 has it on both front panel and remote control.
2807 has 24/192 Analog Devices AD-1835 DAC. 3806 has 24/192 Burr-Brown PCM-1791 DAC.
2807 has 24/96 ADC. 3806 has 24/192 Burr-Brown PCM-1804 ADC.
2807 has AL24 Processing Plus on Front Left and Right channels. 3806 has AL24 Processing Plus on all channels.


2807 Exclusives:

Dock Control for iPod.
Radio Data System (RDS).
Upconversion from 480i/576i component/S-video/composite to 480p/576p HDMI.


3806 Exclusives:

Denon Link III for DVD-A (and SACD ready).
Dynamic Discrete Surround Circuit – D.D.S.C. - Digital - Circuit.
HDCD decoder.


Feel free to add anything or point out any mistakes.
How about more power and better DAC's on the 3806?

[Erik Garci]

How about more power and better DAC's on the 3806?
I already mentioned those. See...

2807 has 110 wpc. 3806 has 120 wpc.
2807 has 24/192 Analog Devices AD-1835 DAC. 3806 has 24/192 Burr-Brown PCM-1791 DAC.

[Bokasmo]

Only recently, I've been hearing crackling, static type noises coming from my front speakers.

This is usually happening on the high end of voices, male or female.

Has anyone else experienced this before?

Using the Denon 3806 w/ Dali Ikons fronts & center...

[assassin]

Updated my 3806 to the new firmware yesterday. It was a piece of cake. Thanks to everyone in the thread who posted about it. I would have never known there was an upgrade out there.

Speaking of upgrades - are there any newer updates out there? I looked on the Denon website but didn't see any at all. I'd love to keep this baby as up to date as possible.

[mbalari]

One question, do you recommend me BI-Ampling on this AVR? I have Front Speakers Polk RTI10.
I´ll be waiting for your answer.
Thanks :)

[MaDequipment]

Someone has been messing with my settings. How do I revert all settings back to the factory settings on the 3806?

[Jase H]

Someone has been messing with my settings. How do I revert all settings back to the factory settings on the 3806?

With the unit completely powered off hold down the Pure Direct and Night buttons on the front panel then turn the power back on. Hold the buttons a few seconds and the display will flash and reset everything back to the factory defaults. Just bear in mind you'll have to redo all the Audyssey EQ setup etc again.

[lentiman]

Also ran the firmware update, zero problems.

[s2silber]

Also ran the firmware update, zero problems.
Sorry if I missed something here, but where have you all been getting this firmware update? Is it the one from the German site?

[keenan]

Sorry if I missed something here, but where have you all been getting this firmware update? Is it the one from the German site?
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9783484&highlight=firmware#post9783484
Denon 3806 Owners Thread - AVS Forum

It's in a rar archive format.

[louthewiz]

One question, do you recommend me BI-Ampling on this AVR? I have Front Speakers Polk RTI10.
I´ll be waiting for your answer.
Thanks :)

With the same avr you will only be "Bi-Wiring" and not bi-amping which will make your speakers sound the same ,
to properly bi-amp you will need 2 separate 2 channel amps powering the 2 front speakers. :rolleyes:

[epsilon]

With the same avr you will only be "Bi-Wiring" and not bi-amping which will make your speakers sound the same ,
to properly bi-amp you will need 2 separate 2 channel amps powering the 2 front speakers. :rolleyes:There are AVRs that allow you to bi-amp, including the receiver we're discussing in this very thread. Do you even own a 3806?

[john stephens]

With the same avr you will only be "Bi-Wiring" and not bi-amping which will make your speakers sound the same ,
to properly bi-amp you will need 2 separate 2 channel amps powering the 2 front speakers. :rolleyes:

The 3806 has 7 seperate 2 channel amps. The back surround channel amps, in particular, can be used for bi amping.

[MaDequipment]

So, let me get this straight, you guys are trying to get a PCM signal that has already been decoded as DHD or DTSHD through HDMI? If so, what connection are you guys using for the PS3 if it is HDMI 1.3 and the Denon HDMI 1.1?

[keenan]

So, let me get this straight, you guys are trying to get a PCM signal that has already been decoded as DHD or DTSHD through HDMI? If so, what connection are you guys using for the PS3 if it is HDMI 1.3 and the Denon HDMI 1.1?
HDMI 1.1 will pass 7.1 channels of PCM, which is what DHD/DTSHD is after being decoded in the player.

[assassin]

I have run into an interesting problem.

I've done the firmware update and now none of the pre-outs work on the 3806. Specifically I can't get any signal to my sub. :eek: :eek: :eek:

The funny thing is that when I do the auto setup I can hear the test tone in all the speakers including the sub thumping. But I tried all morning to get the signal to the sub and it won't work. Tried adjusting the settings, using different cables, etc. Nothing.

I really need some help. Can anyone advise? Thanks in advance.

[assassin]

I have run into an interesting problem.

I've done the firmware update and now none of the pre-outs work on the 3806. Specifically I can't get any signal to my sub. :eek: :eek: :eek:

The funny thing is that when I do the auto setup I can hear the test tone in all the speakers including the sub thumping. But I tried all morning to get the signal to the sub and it won't work. Tried adjusting the settings, using different cables, etc. Nothing.

I really need some help. Can anyone advise? Thanks in advance.

Nevermind. Did a search and remembered that damn LFE+Main setting nuance. Have to set the subwoofer up twice. :mad: All is well in my home theater again.

[john stephens]

Nevermind. Did a search and remembered that damn LFE+Main setting nuance. Have to set the subwoofer up twice. :mad: All is well in my home theater again.

Could you be more specific, offer more details?

[keenan]

I'm curious about that as well, I'm not sure how the two things are related.

[Dutchman01]

It's nice to read a lot of users here do use my link to the Denon AVR-3806 firmware.

http://rapidshare.com/files/16593896/Firmware_3806.rar


It's already downloaded for a total of 117 times. (not bad) :)

I read here some users do not know if the firmware is the same as the one on the Denon Europe site.

Yes it is 100% the same,

I did download it from there and upload it for you all to rapidshare because off the bad USA Denon support.

I really don't know why we in europe do get this fixes a lot faster than the rest of the world.

It was for me easy to do upload it for all of you.

[john stephens]

Dutchman01,

I just want to add my name to those who thank you for helping us with this upgrade. I am disapointed, though, that the manufacturer doesn't think we Americans are up to this task.

[DrakeBullet]

I have a new 3806 in my main theater room and want to power speakers in other rooms (kitchen, etc). On my retired Yamaha system this was done by plugging the other room speakers into the Main B inputs and switching the "B" button on the front of the unit on/off.

The 3806 has a multitude of possibilities, so I'm sure this simple switching is possible. Right now the "other room speakers" are plugged into the Surround Back inputs per page 23 (ZONE2 Front Speaker) example.

ZONE2 amp is on.
System Setup-->Option Setup-->Power Amp Assign-->S. Back = ZONE2.
ZONE2 SOURCE is set to DBS (cable DVR box) per page 43.
ZONE2 Volume is same as MAIN, that is, it's on :) .
No sound :o .

What am I doing wrong? Is there a better way to have the other room speakers switched on/off with same source?

Update: An "Analog" source, iPod connected via VCR-1 to RCA inputs works on ZONE2 as above both. The Motorola (Comcast) HDDVR puts out a digital signal input to OPT1. Same for the DVD input to OPT2.

Thanks

[john stephens]

I have a new 3806 in my main theater room and want to power speakers in other rooms (kitchen, etc). On my retired Yamaha system this was done by plugging the other room speakers into the Main B inputs and switching the "B" button on the front of the unit on/off.

The 3806 has a multitude of possibilities, so I'm sure this simple switching is possible. Right now the "other room speakers" are plugged into the Surround Back inputs per page 23 (ZONE2 Front Speaker) example.

ZONE2 amp is on.
System Setup-->Option Setup-->Power Amp Assign-->S. Back = ZONE2.
ZONE2 SOURCE is set to DBS (cable DVR box) per page 43.
ZONE2 Volume is same as MAIN, that is, it's on :) .
No sound :o .

What am I doing wrong? Is there a better way to have the other room speakers switched on/off with same source?

Update: An "Analog" source, iPod connected via VCR-1 to RCA inputs works on ZONE2 as above both. The Motorola (Comcast) HDDVR puts out a digital signal input to OPT1. Same for the DVD input to OPT2.

Thanks

Try going into the speaker config menu and make sure you have not included Surr Back in your main speaker set up.

[epsilon]

I don't think it's possible to send digital audio to Zone2/3. See page 58.

Edit: That probably refers to the Zone2&3 analog outs so, never mind.

[s2silber]

You simply can't send a digital audio signal to Zone 2. When I want to hear audio in Zone 2 from my STB, which I have connected to the DBS input through an optical cable, I go through my DVD Recorder which takes an analog stereo feed from my STB.

[DrakeBullet]

No digital sound source is output in zone2. I only want to do this when playing a music channel from my cable STB (Motorola with Comcast as SP).

I connected the RCA (L&R) from the Moto box into the DBS RCA in addition to a Toslink cable from the Moto box to OPT1. It looks like the 3806 Main picks up the digital audio in (shows Dolby Digital when set to auto surround). The 3806 Zone2 DBS shows stereo. So far it works for me.

[porsch1909]

HI all! I've had a 3806 for about a year now. I have it connected in 5.1 with the Kef KHT3005 speakers.

The first problem I've had since I had the amp. After setting it up for about 5 hours I go to auto set it up. So I press the start and the strange sound comes out all of the speakers EXCEPT my surround left speaker. Nothing comes out of that. Then the receiver makes a 'click' sound and nothing happens.

The speaker is conncected and sound comes out of it. But I can't seem to get the auto setup to work!

The other problem. This problem ONLY occurs when I listen to CD music at high volumes. WHen I say high I mean -10Db. After about 5 minutes (minimum) the receiver just cuts out :confused:

It turns off and the light flashes red. Initially I thought it was overheating. So I moved it to the top of the shelf so there is NOTHING above it. And it still happens. It seem to be happening with more frequency as well.

So I took it to the store I bought it (not even a year old yet) and they tested it for half an hour at about -8.5 on a pair of kef IQ5s. And there was no problem! Sounded pretty darn good actually and I've thinking of buying a pair of IQ7s and running the system in 7.1 :cool:

Anyway....anyone got any suggestions?

[bluer101]

HI all! I've had a 3806 for about a year now. I have it connected in 5.1 with the Kef KHT3005 speakers.

The first problem I've had since I had the amp. After setting it up for about 5 hours I go to auto set it up. So I press the start and the strange sound comes out all of the speakers EXCEPT my surround left speaker. Nothing comes out of that. Then the receiver makes a 'click' sound and nothing happens.

The speaker is conncected and sound comes out of it. But I can't seem to get the auto setup to work!

The other problem. This problem ONLY occurs when I listen to CD music at high volumes. WHen I say high I mean -10Db. After about 5 minutes (minimum) the receiver just cuts out :confused:

It turns off and the light flashes red. Initially I thought it was overheating. So I moved it to the top of the shelf so there is NOTHING above it. And it still happens. It seem to be happening with more frequency as well.

So I took it to the store I bought it (not even a year old yet) and they tested it for half an hour at about -8.5 on a pair of kef IQ5s. And there was no problem! Sounded pretty darn good actually and I've thinking of buying a pair of IQ7s and running the system in 7.1 :cool:

Anyway....anyone got any suggestions?


What are the ohm ratings of your speakers? Another thing could be possibly a speaker wire on the back of the reciever touching somewhere. Could be one small strand causing the reciever to shut down.

[porsch1909]

They are all 8ohms. That shouldn't make a difference AFAIK.

I've checked for any wires shorting out and can't find anything.....hurumph!

[TheGearbox]

Ok, I have a situation that needs some advise. I have the 3806 with all my inputs upconverted to 1 HDMI. This all goes to my samsung 5085 dlp. Now my problem is this, I bought a DVD recorder, it has hookups all the way up to component, now how do I get a universal output to my DVD Recorder while maintaining my output through my HDMI? My hookups are Xbox 360 (720p), cable (720p), DVD, (480i). Is this even possible to output all signals to a second video output while maintaining the first main output? Any help is greatly appriciated.

Edit: Also, is there a dvd recorder that has HDMI in/out on it?

[TMV]

HI all! I've had a 3806 for about a year now. I have it connected in 5.1 with the Kef KHT3005 speakers.

The first problem I've had since I had the amp. After setting it up for about 5 hours I go to auto set it up. So I press the start and the strange sound comes out all of the speakers EXCEPT my surround left speaker. Nothing comes out of that. Then the receiver makes a 'click' sound and nothing happens.

The speaker is conncected and sound comes out of it. But I can't seem to get the auto setup to work!

The other problem. This problem ONLY occurs when I listen to CD music at high volumes. WHen I say high I mean -10Db. After about 5 minutes (minimum) the receiver just cuts out :confused:

It turns off and the light flashes red. Initially I thought it was overheating. So I moved it to the top of the shelf so there is NOTHING above it. And it still happens. It seem to be happening with more frequency as well.

So I took it to the store I bought it (not even a year old yet) and they tested it for half an hour at about -8.5 on a pair of kef IQ5s. And there was no problem! Sounded pretty darn good actually and I've thinking of buying a pair of IQ7s and running the system in 7.1 :cool:

Anyway....anyone got any suggestions?

I recently set up my HT with the Auto setup (did it manually B4) after the side speakers were done it took a long time then there was a click, very long pause again ...maybe 2-3 minutes, then it completed the rear surrounds.
After it was completed I listened to a favorite music DVD and thought it sounded good, but needed some additional tweaking in the highs.

For your shut down problem, try stereo front speakers only and see what happens, if ok, set to 5.1 setup and again see if it shuts down,
if still okay go to 7.1 and play your music again.
This will narrow down the problem area and give you an idea of where the problem is.
If it turns out to shut down on rear speakers (as an example) than connect those channels of the receiver to Different speakers (fronts) and try it again.
This will tell you if its the speakers or amp section (make sure to only have one set of speaker wires on the speakers at a time).

[uzun]

Is the firmware update for European 3806's only? Is there an official US firmware release on the denon site someplace?

[keenan]

Is the firmware update for European 3806's only? Is there an official US firmware release on the denon site someplace?
It works on all 3806's, the instructions are 6-8 pages back I think. There hasn't been any official "US" release.

[bluer101]

They are all 8ohms. That shouldn't make a difference AFAIK.

I've checked for any wires shorting out and can't find anything.....hurumph!


I asked for the ohms because the Denon has a hard time with anything lower than 8.

[rajeshjha]

Still in the process of setting up my 3806 which is being used with an external amp.

1. LFE crossover setting in main menu setup, alongwith other speaker sizes and crossovers. I noticed the bass response to be somewhat lacking when I set the LFE xover to 80HZ, but it seems to have picked up when I changed it to 120HZ. Since an LFE channel (DD & DTS) can have content upto 120HZ, what happens to that content if the LFE crossover is set to lower than 120HZ such as the ever popular default of 80HZ? Is it re-routed to the mains (FL, FR, C ?) or simply discarded?

2. What, if any, is the relationship between the overall speaker/channel levels set from the main menu and in individual sound/input modes (by pressing the center button while in that mode). Do the individual modes setup over-ride the main setup, use the main setup as their default starting values until tweaked, or work in addition to the main setup values (thus if center speaker = +2 in main menu, and using the select button I change the value while on CD input in 7channel stereo to +1, will the center speaker have a level of +3 or will it be only +1 ??)

Thanks for your assistance.

Raj

[shamus]

New owner here also... thanks for the great thread guys!

After waiting and waiting for an HDMI 1.3 receiver I finally said F it and got this. I figure just get a player (BD or HD DVD) that decodes it and send it all PCM and your good to go. I must say I am very happy so far. Im really enjoying stereo, but where this thing is really blowing me away is in the movie department. Surrounds have never been so blended and the Bass so smooth.
In the past, I could never get surrounds set right before. I got my AVIA and DVE and Radio shack meter... and even a camera tripod stand and would go to town but still the surround speakers would be very distracting. Even after setting them a few decibels lower than what was recommended, I was just not happy. Same goes for the subs. On some material they would be perfect.. on others a little weak and on others overwhelming. But know I feel almost a sense of perfection and I think I owe that to Audyssey. Im guessing I had some nasty peaks and dips that just could not allow me to have a perfect blend all the time. And of course, Id like to thank Denon for the excellent product also.(but please learn how to write a manual... you are almost as bad as Yamaha!!)

Just a few notes...
If you guys numbers are correct, than it appears I have the current firmware. I am definitely passing 7.1 PCM.
The auto set up got everything perfect... To those not happy with it I would try it again, could possibly be fixed with the firmware???
Someone else mentioned about a bug that wont let you play the sub during direct stereo mode. I ran across an option to enable that(somewhere).
I recognize a lot of names here from the BD/HD DVD forum.. isnt it great to add
IIx to PCM???? And speaking of that... Im currently using my Panasonic BD player to decode everything to PCM (including standard Dolby and DTS) and sending it straight PCM to the Denon... any thoughts on that?
One last thing.. I only have a 720 display. The Denon does pass 1080p through HDMI right?
Thanks again!

[john stephens]

Yes, the Denon passes 1080P.

[TheGearbox]

I have a question. I am currently sitting at 5.1, is there a big difference between 7.1 and 5.1? Is it worth the money? Does it help with everything or just things decoded in 7.1?

[madpoet]

It's a matter of choice. I like 7.1, and apply PLIIx to everything I can :). Some prefer 5.1 for more discrete sound location.

[keenan]

It's a matter of choice. I like 7.1, and apply PLIIx to everything I can :). Some prefer 5.1 for more discrete sound location.
What's nice about the Denon is you can have a 5.1 arrangement for multichannel music(DVD-A - SACD) and also have a 7.1 or even 9.1 setup for video(TV - movies) and it will use whichever you set it up for automatically.

[TheGearbox]

In your honest opinion though, is 7.1 truly better then 5.1? Reason being that I need to convince the wife that the added ugly (in her opinion) speakers is worth the added enjoyment. Thanks to the DIY channel, they got it in her head that 7.1 is exactly the same as 5.1, and I want to get some input from you guys on what you think.

[madpoet]

For home theater, I think it is. I find the immersion factor of 7.1 much greater than 5.1

[shamus]

Yes, the Denon passes 1080P.
Thanks

[shamus]

In your honest opinion though, is 7.1 truly better then 5.1? Reason being that I need to convince the wife that the added ugly (in her opinion) speakers is worth the added enjoyment. Thanks to the DIY channel, they got it in her head that 7.1 is exactly the same as 5.1, and I want to get some input from you guys on what you think.
It really fills in the back of your room nicely. Im also thinking 7.1 discrete will start to become more common in the future.

[aaronwt]

I went to a 7.1 receiver in 2001. I'm now on my 4th 7.1 receiver(my third Denon 7.1 receiver). And with DPLIIx it really works well turning 5.1/2.0 into 7.1. I could never go back to 5.1 in my main viewing area. It just wouldn't sound right.

[tigerkn]

Hello 3806 Lovers,

Please help, I used to connect:
HDMI from Oppo981 directly to my HDTV and Optical to 3806 (I was lazy and affraid of the configuration)

Now, DVD and CD:
* HDMI from Oppo to 3806 then HDMI to HDTV for DVD (I can listen to CD as well)
* Optical from Oppo to 3806 for CD (which provides better Digital sound? HDMI or Optical)

Cable:
* Components and composite from DVR to HDTV
* Optical to 3806

Question:
How can I connect to have audio from Oppo to HDTV as well (play DVD w/o turn on 3806)?
How can I connect from Cable box to have both HD to TV and thru 3806 (both A/V)

Thanks so much for helping in advance!
Kev.

[tigerkn]

Could someone please make a list or show where to find benefits of update the firmware?

I currently have my set up at 5.1 and extremely happy with the combination of Rockets and 3806 + Oppo + Panamax + soon to add Hsu 3.3 - Is the update going to bring more fun out of the 3806??????

Thanks guys! Kev.

[aaronwt]

Hello 3806 Lovers,

Please help, I used to connect:
HDMI from Oppo981 directly to my HDTV and Optical to 3806 (I was lazy and affraid of the configuration)

Now, DVD and CD:
* HDMI from Oppo to 3806 then HDMI to HDTV for DVD (I can listen to CD as well)
* Optical from Oppo to 3806 for CD (which provides better Digital sound? HDMI or Optical)

Cable:
* Components and composite from DVR to HDTV
* Optical to 3806

Question:
How can I connect to have audio from Oppo to HDTV as well (play DVD w/o turn on 3806)?
How can I connect from Cable box to have both HD to TV and thru 3806 (both A/V)

Thanks so much for helping in advance!
Kev.


You need to get a 1x2 HDMI splitter. Monoprice sells one and I use several Connectgear 1x2 HDMI splitters since they are much smaller than the Monoprice. Either will work well. The Connectgear is around $90 each. You just run the output of the device to the splitter and run one output to the TV and one to the receiver.

Could someone please make a list or show where to find benefits of update the firmware?

I currently have my set up at 5.1 and extremely happy with the combination of Rockets and 3806 + Oppo + Panamax + soon to add Hsu 3.3 - Is the update going to bring more fun out of the 3806??????

Thanks guys! Kev.
The main feature with the update is it enables 7.1 pcm over HDMI. I think it also has updated algorithims for the Audessy stuff but I'm not positive. If you don't have any 7.1/6.1 PCM sources over HDMI then you shouldn't worry about the update. I have the PS3 and the few discs that have 6.1/7.1 pcm sound even better with the 3806 since the upgrade with the 2 extra channels of info.

[shamus]

Just wanted to correct my earlier statement about the sub bug in direct mode. Its still there... read the thread and switching to LFE + main corrects it.
Could it be that Denon ignores what everyone else has defined "LFE + Main" to be(bass to sub AND mains) and instead defines it as LFE(just the .1) and main(meaning bass that main speakers cant handle) sent to sub???

Also still trying to figure out a few more things...
- What exactlly is stereo direct and pure direct????
- Ive got a 7.1 setup. What is matrix for the rears mean??? Is it similar to IIx?

[shamus]

Just wanted to correct my earlier statement about the sub bug in direct mode. Its still there... read the thread and switching to LFE + main corrects it.
Could it be that Denon ignores what everyone else has defined "LFE + Main" to be(bass to sub AND mains) and instead defines it as LFE(just the .1) and main(meaning bass that main speakers cant handle) sent to sub???

Also still trying to figure out a few more things...
- What exactlly is stereo direct and pure direct????
- Ive got a 7.1 setup. What is matrix for the rears mean??? Is it similar to IIx?
Heres an interesting note found only in the online manual page 76....
2 Subwoofer Setup
•When the input signal is analog or a PCM signal not including
LFE signals, if “LFE” is selected, the low frequency
component is not output from the subwoofer. To output the
subwoofer channel, select “LFE+Main”.

[shamus]

Sorry for yet another question, but Ive been playing with this all weekend. :)
Using HDMI and playing a PCM track(or anything decoded to PCM) from my Panasonic BD player results in a lower LFE output(I would guess -10 decibel). Is this a player or receiver problem? Ant way to fix this besides boosting the sub? I found the LFE option but it only allows you to lower it and not increase it. Any suggestions?

[aaronwt]

Is it a problem with the Panasonic? I haven't noticed any problems with PCM from my XA2 or PS3 with my 3806.

[shamus]

Is it a problem with the Panasonic? I haven't noticed any problems with PCM from my XA2 or PS3 with my 3806.
It could be.. Ive heard some reports, but I didnt notice it with my previous receiver... but then again I didnt run it through so many tests that I did with this Denon, so I could of missed it. If you got a minute, throw in a standard DVD with DTS or Dolby(a good example is the footsteps from the Bellrock from Lord of the Rings). Switch your player to PCM so that it does all the decoding and play. Than switch it back to bitstream and see if you notice a difference in LFE. Listen to the footsteps(Im sure you know what I'm talking about :) ), you will be able to hear them on both, but when mines set to PCM... you don't feel them! I've tried several movies with all types of audio and it's always the same results... a drop in LFE. Obviously I could turn up the subs, but then that will bloat the bass that is sent to the sub from the speakers. I could also switch back to bitstream, but then I'll always know that any of the new audio codecs will have weak LFE.
Please if you, or anyone else, could try this, I would be very grateful. I just got this receiver for the sole purpouse of sending it all PCM so I dont have to worry about future proofing for the advanced audio codecs.... Im hoping its the player!
Thanks!

[aaronwt]

It could be.. Ive heard some reports, but I didnt notice it with my previous receiver... but then again I didnt run it through so many tests that I did with this Denon, so I could of missed it. If you got a minute, throw in a standard DVD with DTS or Dolby(a good example is the footsteps from the Bellrock from Lord of the Rings). Switch your player to PCM so that it does all the decoding and play. Than switch it back to bitstream and see if you notice a difference in LFE. Listen to the footsteps(Im sure you know what I'm talking about :) ), you will be able to hear them on both, but when mines set to PCM... you don't feel them! I've tried several movies with all types of audio and it's always the same results... a drop in LFE. Obviously I could turn up the subs, but then that will bloat the bass that is sent to the sub from the speakers. I could also switch back to bitstream, but then I'll always know that any of the new audio codecs will have weak LFE.
Please if you, or anyone else, could try this, I would be very grateful. I just got this receiver for the sole purpouse of sending it all PCM so I dont have to worry about future proofing for the advanced audio codecs.... Im hoping its the player!
Thanks!

What section of the LotR disc is the footsteps?

[aaronwt]

I just tried it with the XA2 and the beginning where the ring falls to the ground. When I switched to PCM, all channels seemed lower, but they all seemed to be lower by the same amount. When I turned up the volume to compensate all channels seemed just as loud as bitstream even the LFE.

[aaronwt]

I just checked again. When I did it the first time it was with DD, but when you set it to PCM output with the DTS 6. track, the XA2 sends it as 2 channel DD.

[shamus]

Aaron, thanks for your efforts!!! Its the scene right before the Bellrock(I think thats what its called) kills Gandolf. When it jumps up from a bunch of flames and begins walking after everyone. This is the best example I can find where its massive LFE. You can use either DTS or Dolby, but whatever machine you use, it has to be able to decode standard Dolby/DTS and send it PCM. I dont know if the Toshiba or PS3 can deode standard or if it just sends it bitstream... my old Samsung couldnt.
Thanks again!

[shamus]

Heres an interesting thread on the subject http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=748147
The guy Scottd327 has the same issues as me, but is also using a Panasonic BD player... its still unknown which one is causing the problem.
When I get a chance in the next couple days, I'll hook up my old receiver and see what happens.

[shamus]

Good news to report....
Tried the same test with the XR700 and it too had the drop in LFE. At that point I dug out the Samsung BD player and ran the same test(had to do it a little differently due to Sammy's lack of standard DVD audio decoders), and it does does NOT drop the LFE.
Conclusion in my very humble opinion with basic skills and equipment is that this is a player problem and not the receiver.

[mbalari]

Hi, wich is the best setting for the Sub whith the 3806?, LFE or LFE + Main?
Thanks. :)

TV - Sony TV (KV-29FS100)
DVD - Sony DVD (DVP-NS325)
AV Receiver - DENON 3806
Front Polk RTi10
Cent. Sony 550
Rear Sony 550
SW Polk 404
Remote Harmony 670
Mesa Tipo Bello (italty)

[TheGearbox]

LFE+Main, I think. I don't think the sub works on certain settings when only in LFE mode.

[shamus]

LFE+Main, I think. I don't think the sub works on certain settings when only in LFE mode.
Right... the sub wont work in direct mode unless you set LFE+Main. Dont forget, there are 2 places you have to make these settings. 1) under speaker/sub setup and 2) under advanced/2channel direct setup.

[mrgc40]

i have the same reciever and upon playing audio at high levels, the reciever shuts down. Mind u, the sound is not distorted and the speakers are paradigm studio 100's. Also how do u post a thread on here? thanks

[TheGearbox]

You dont happen to have your speakers running below 8 ohms do you?

[mrgc40]

i have them biwired and am not sure what ohms they are running at. There are no ohm settings though.

[TheGearbox]

Im assuming that you have them wired Parrallel (not sure what you mean by biwire). I think that the Denon Receiver is truely only stable at 8ohms. If you have 2 speakers wired parrallel then odds are (on home speakers) that you are running at 4 ohms or below. This could cause the receiver to shut down at higher levels to prevent it from burning up. Now this usually applies to any amplifier that they have a stable ohm rating. What Denons limits are? I don't know. This might not even be your problem, but I run accross similar cases with different amps that ran below their recomended ohm ratings. I would start there and see what that does.

[assassin]

Could you be more specific, offer more details?

See posts 2103, 2104, and 2114-2116 to read what I was talking about.

[MartyMac]

I have a Pioneer FHD-1, a Denon 3806 and the Toshiba A1, (FW 2.2). I would like to get some input on best AUDIO setup through my denon. I have read numerous threads and seem to be more confused now than ever. Also, I intend to go to the HD-A20 shortly.

I.E. should I use analog or digital inputs to the 3806? If digital then should I use Coax or optical? Or will HDMI be the best setup, it's obviously easy.?

Setup settings on the 3806?

Any other tidbits of info that will help?

I am hoping to get ideas that are strung out amongst numerous threads and get them consolidated here.

Thanks for any help.

[shamus]

I have a Pioneer FHD-1, a Denon 3806 and the Toshiba A1, (FW 2.2). I would like to get some input on best AUDIO setup through my denon. I have read numerous threads and seem to be more confused now than ever. Also, I intend to go to the HD-A20 shortly.

I.E. should I use analog or digital inputs to the 3806? If digital then should I use Coax or optical? Or will HDMI be the best setup, it's obviously easy.?

Setup settings on the 3806?

Any other tidbits of info that will help?

I am hoping to get ideas that are strung out amongst numerous threads and get them consolidated here.

Thanks for any help.
I think most hate repeating themselves... Read this entire thread first, and then ask questions. Be very specific with your questions. This will get you started...
1) HDMI!!!
2) Set Toshiba Dolby/DTS to bitstream. Set Dolby Tru/plus to PCM.
3)Read the Audyssey thread post #104 http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=687600&page=4&pp=30&highlight=3806

As difficult as it is, you should read the owners manual(on line one has more info).
Good luck!

[kidziti]

I am using Dolby PLII Music for the stations that do not bring in Dolby Digital. Exploring the "options" for PLII Music setting, I noticed "panorama" and "dimension". I searched the terms in this thread and came up zilch, so I hope this isn't a repeat question, but just what does panorama do, and how does dimension affect it (it ranges from 0 to 6)?

[MartyMac]

I think most hate repeating themselves... Read this entire thread first, and then ask questions. Be very specific with your questions. This will get you started...
1) HDMI!!!
2) Set Toshiba Dolby/DTS to bitstream. Set Dolby Tru/plus to PCM.
3)Read the Audyssey thread post #104 http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=687600&page=4&pp=30&highlight=3806

As difficult as it is, you should read the owners manual(on line one has more info).
Good luck!

Shamus,
Thanks. I know people hate to repeat themselves but after reading 71 pages encompassing over 2,000 responses, well maybe you can see my quandary. By my posting this here and in the HD-DVD section, I now have my answers. Sometimes a thread just gets to long. The search function on this board doesn't seem to work as well as the search on other boards. Whether it is the version of vBulletin they use or how it's implemented I don't know but it just doesn't seem to work quite as well. Of course the diversity of topics on AVSForum could have something to do with that.
But enough, thanks for a short succinct answer.

Have a great day.

[aaronwt]

I am using Dolby PLII Music for the stations that do not bring in Dolby Digital. Exploring the "options" for PLII Music setting, I noticed "panorama" and "dimension". I searched the terms in this thread and came up zilch, so I hope this isn't a repeat question, but just what does panorama do, and how does dimension affect it (it ranges from 0 to 6)?
I assume you are using the music setting for music since there is a cinema setting also.
DPLIIx sounds much better than DPLII. I only use DPLIIx cinema for all my viewing. For music I leave it in stereo.

[kidziti]

I assume you are using the music setting for music since there is a cinema setting also.
DPLIIx sounds much better than DPLII. I only use DPLIIx cinema for all my viewing. For music I leave it in stereo.

All IIx modes are based on the same decoding technology, but music mode offers the user more control through the center width, panorama and dimension options. My understanding is that there is not much difference between cinema and music mode except that music mode offers this extra flexibility - and is certainly suitable for movies (according to Roger Dressler at Dolby).

As for the IIx vs plain II, I'm not certain I can take advantage of IIx. I have only one set of surrounds (5.1 only), and am using zone 2 - therefore cannot set SB CH OUT to ON - a requirement to use IIx. Is there a work-around, or do I have this wrong?

[madpoet]

No, if you are using 5.1 there is no advantage to PLIIx

[shamus]

Anybody able to get bass(besides LFE) when using Multi direct????

[uzun]

I did the update, it seemed to work fine. I had to reset everything including redo the Audyssey but there were no problems and the version numbers check out. Which HD-DVD's if any feature discrete 7.1 soundtracks?

[shamus]

Anybody able to get bass(besides LFE) when using Multi direct????
Anyone??????
I swear I can hear a difference between Standard and Direct Stereo, which of course has an option to use your sub. Unfortunately I cant get Multi direct to send low signals from any speakers set to small to the sub.... just the LFE. :(

[aaronwt]

I have mine set for LFE+Main and get the low signals for all speakers from my subwoofer.

[cp1966]

I just got an Outlaw 7700, and I have it mated to a Denon 3803. As many others have, I have the hum. I have started to troubleshoot the source, but so far no luck;

I have a dedicated 20 amp circuit feeding 2 outlets. One outlet is for the Sony SXBR 60" HDTV and Def Tech Powered Sub, the other for the denon, outlaw, dvd jukebox, Dirctv HD Tivo, CD jukebox. The TV and sub are conected to a Monstercable Powerbar (1100 I think) and all of my stereo gear is hooked up to a Monstercable 2600.

The DirecTV feeds are grounded to the water pipes. I have an OTA antenae and that is grounded to the water pipes as well. I have disconnected the phone line on the Tivo, unplugged the TV, the sub and Tivo. The hum is still there. My DVD jukebox is connected to the TV directly via a HDMI cable, and I have not unhooked that yet. This weekend I am going to try unplugging each unbalanced RCA cable from the denon to the amp and see if that makes any difference. On some of the RCA cables, if I turn the cable at the point where it is connected to the amp, I hear crackling at the speaker. Maybe a bad cable ?brand new monoprice RCA cable)

I also have a B&O turntable that has a ground wire, whcih I have connected to the back panel of the 3803.

Is this dreaded "hum" an issue with all high powered amps?

Does anyone have any more suggestions on finding the problem ground?


ps I posted in this section because I was directed here while doing a search.

[shamus]

I have mine set for LFE+Main and get the low signals for all speakers from my subwoofer.
Even when set to Direct with a PCM source????

[12promises]

Successfully updated my firmware using USB to Serial adapter (Monoprice Product ID 2067 which is made by Prolific Technology).
Changes from default port settings I used were:
Bits per Second – 115200
and under Advanced:
Receive Buffer – 8
Transmit Buffer – 10
hi there, new to the forum so any help is appreciated.
i tried the update using the same settings and sometimes the communication was ok and sometimes (NG).........strange.
everytime i asked to update the timeout message appeared .
am at the end of my tether with this.
does anyone have any more suggestions?
the cable is a usb serial converter.

thanks....

[jg3784]

hi there, new to the forum so any help is appreciated.
i tried the update using the same settings and sometimes the communication was ok and sometimes (NG).........strange.
everytime i asked to update the timeout message appeared .
am at the end of my tether with this.
does anyone have any more suggestions?
the cable is a usb serial converter.

thanks....

The instructions for the update indicate that a serial com port (D-Sub 9 Pin) is required on the computer transferring the files. It doesn't appear to discuss using a USB port serial adapter. My desktop doesn't have a serial port so I used a laptop with an RS-232 port and connected it to the 3806 with a serial RS-232C straight through cable at 115,200 bps as the instructions require. I ran into the same timeout problems until I decreased the com port FIFO buffer - refer to my post no. 2030. Maybe for your situation the USB port is causing the time-out problem. Try decreasing both settings until your computer stops indicating a timeout message.

[Jeremysm]

I need to buy a new AVR by July 1---should I pull the trigger on a 3806 for $800? or is a 2807 for $800 better since its newer? Lastly, would you wait to see what deals are out there in late June instead? Thanks for your guidance and opinions.

BTW--the television will be a new 720p Plasma (probably not a 1080p tv).
J

[assassin]

I love the 3806. I was in the same dilemma as you but went with the 3806. It has better parts and features, imo.

[shamus]

Same here...

[alex1971]

If someone wants to handle his AVR-3806 with PC:

http://www.audioproducts.com.au/APGNZEnduser/ShowProducts.aspx?pid=AVR3806BK&type=2

Very nice Setup-Tool !

Config and control your DENON with your PC....

[12promises]

The instructions for the update indicate that a serial com port (D-Sub 9 Pin) is required on the computer transferring the files. It doesn't appear to discuss using a USB port serial adapter. My desktop doesn't have a serial port so I used a laptop with an RS-232 port and connected it to the 3806 with a serial RS-232C straight through cable at 115,200 bps as the instructions require. I ran into the same timeout problems until I decreased the com port FIFO buffer - refer to my post no. 2030. Maybe for your situation the USB port is causing the time-out problem. Try decreasing both settings until your computer stops indicating a timeout message.

thanks,but Dundas reported in post #2031 that he/she was successful with a usb/rs232 cable and i have tried to replicate this.
i have also fiddled with the com port speeds but still get the same result :confused:

[cp1966]

I believe on the avsforum website, I read that someone had an issue with the HDMI cable being a part of the problem,

So, after more fidgiting around, I found a combo of issues with the video out of my Sony Jukebox. It seems now it is related to the HDMI and component video out sources of my Sony DVD 400 Jukebox.

If I have the coaxial connected from the DVD jukebox to the Denon with the HDMI cable ( monoprice 35 footer at 22 awg wire) running directly to the TV I have the hum. If I disconnect the HDMI cable at the jukebox the hum goes away.

So I connected component cables from the jukebox to the Denon with the coaxial audio cable for audio and I get the hum.

Disconnect the comp video cable and keep the coxial audio cable connected and no hum.

Bottom line; if I have the video outputs connected and going to the TV or Denon, and audio outputs are going to the Denon, I get the hum.

I checked all power connections with at the monster powerbar and they are all correct, I even checked the polarity at the outlet and the outlet is correct regarding grounding.

????????????????????????????

[Doug4960]

My system consists of a Denon DVD-3910, a Denon AVR-3806, and an Infocus IN76 Projector. When I use HDMI to connect from the DVD to the Projector, the picture comes through, but when I run the signal via HDMI through the 3806 to the Projector, I get no picture. All three components say they are HDCP compliant, and if I run my HDDVR through the 3806 using HDMI, it works fine. I was hoping that someone knows of a fix.

[s2silber]

If you read through this thread you'll note that there have been scores, if not hundreds, of complaints concerning the AVR 3806's inability to output HDMI signals passed through it from a variety of sources. However, this has been noted mostly with cable/SAT set-top boxes, not DVD players. Denon has not been able to fix this, and I don't know of any successful workarounds other than using component cables.

[Doug4960]

If I run the DVD to the 3806 using HDMI and then out to the projector using Component, will that work to get a 720P or 1080i signal to the projector?

[Dundas]

thanks,but Dundas reported in post #2031 that he/she was successful with a usb/rs232 cable and i have tried to replicate this.
i have also fiddled with the com port speeds but still get the same result :confused:

I'm not sure from your post whether you are using the same USB to serial adaptor as I did. They are not all created equal. You might want to try a different one than you've been using. Also maybe try a different laptop? btw, I'm using XP Home SP2

[Dundas]

If you read through this thread you'll note that there have been scores, if not hundreds, of complaints concerning the AVR 3806's inability to output HDMI signals passed through it from a variety of sources. However, this has been noted mostly with cable/SAT set-top boxes, not DVD players. Denon has not been able to fix this, and I don't know of any successful workarounds other than using component cables.

I had a HDMI problem when I changed from a Panasonic AE900 projector to a Sanyo Z5 so it is not always the source that is the issue. After updating my 3806's firmware everything works OK.

[MaDequipment]

Okay, so I've been using my 3806 for a while now, but still can't seem to figure out how to get Dolby Pro Logic IIx. When I press on the "Music" surround modes, the first surround mode that appears is Dolby PLII music with DTS NEO:6 music as the next one. Does the x just not appear or are there requirements for that x to appear (that is if it does).

[kidziti]

I think PLIIx requires setup as 7.1 vs 5.1.

[MaDequipment]

I have a 5.1 system. However, according to wikipedia, "A newer Dolby Pro Logic IIx system is also now available, which can take stereo and Dolby Surround (sometimes called Dolby Stereo Surround) source material and up-convert it to 5.1, 6.1, or 7.1 channel surround sound."

To kidziti:
Are you able to get the PrologicIIx words to display on your 3806?

[kidziti]

I can only get II, not IIx. I'm using a Zone 2, so 7.1 isn't an option for me (even if I wanted to go there, which I don't). But I remember trying to hash this out beofre, and the bottom line - at least as I understood it - was that IIx was for 7.1. That's just what I was made to understand - naturally I'd be very happy to be wrong about that...

[shamus]

I have a 5.1 system. However, according to wikipedia, "A newer Dolby Pro Logic IIx system is also now available, which can take stereo and Dolby Surround (sometimes called Dolby Stereo Surround) source material and up-convert it to 5.1, 6.1, or 7.1 channel surround sound."

To kidziti:
Are you able to get the PrologicIIx words to display on your 3806?
I turned off my back surrounds and the X disappears.....

[Johnla]

I have a 5.1 system. However, according to wikipedia, "A newer Dolby Pro Logic IIx system is also now available, which can take stereo and Dolby Surround (sometimes called Dolby Stereo Surround) source material and up-convert it to 5.1, 6.1, or 7.1 channel surround sound."

Another case of wikipedia being wrong. No surprise there.......

Go to the source, Dolby for the answer, instead of wikipedia. You have a 5.1 setup, so you will only be able to use PLII, to use PLIIx you will need to add 2 more speakers and move up to a 7.1 setup. PLIIx expands native 2 channel or 5.1, to 6.1 or 7.1, it will not take 2 channel/stereo up to 5.1


http://www.dolby.com/consumer/technology/prologic_IIx.html


"Dolby® Pro Logic® IIx

The age of 7.1 surround sound for the home is here. But it's not just reserved for DVD movies encoded in Dolby Digital EX. With Dolby Pro Logic IIx, any movie, CD, TV program or video game can be enjoyed through this enhanced surround sound technology.

Pro Logic IIx is the first and only technology to expand any existing stereo- or 5.1-channel audio for a 6.1- or 7.1- channel playback, creating a seamless, natural surround soundfield that immerses you in the entertainment experience."

http://www.dolby.com/consumer/technology/prologic_IIx_faq_1.html#q1

"1. What is Dolby® Pro Logic® IIx?

Dolby Pro Logic IIx is an extension of Dolby Pro Logic II technology. This highly sophisticated algorithm processes native stereo- and 5.1-channel material to produce 6.1 or 7.1 output channels.

Dolby Pro Logic IIx expands choice in playback system configuration (allowing 5.1, 6.1, or 7.1 playback channels) and, when incorporated into an audio/video (AV) receiver or processor, allows a convenient upgrade path from a traditional 5.1-channel sound system to 7.1 output channels.


2. Does Dolby Pro Logic IIx replace Dolby Pro Logic II?

No. Dolby Pro Logic IIx uses the same core technology as Dolby Pro Logic II, but extends its functionality. Dolby Pro Logic II technology will continue as the primary surround decoder for two to 5.1-channel material. Pro Logic IIx will be integrated by manufacturers into hardware components that offer 6.1 or 7.1 output capability."

[Doug4960]

I had a HDMI problem when I changed from a Panasonic AE900 projector to a Sanyo Z5 so it is not always the source that is the issue. After updating my 3806's firmware everything works OK.
I have searched through this thread, but have only found a link to the european firmware update. I cannot seem to find it on Denon's US site and the European files are not in english, so I cannot read the instructions. Can anyone point me to the US firmware update for the 3806?

[madpoet]

There are instructions posted in this thread on how to do it. There is no U.S. release, but it doesn't matter. It's all the same.

[jg3784]

There are instructions posted in this thread on how to do it. There is no U.S. release, but it doesn't matter. It's all the same.

In light of the fact that so many people are having problems with usb/serial adapters, timeouts and all sorts of update problems I would like to point out the text of the update software agreement from D&M Holdings which everyone accepts prior to installing the software:

"This software is provided to you free of charge, and on an "AS-IS" basis, without any technical support or warranty of any kind from D&M HOLDINGS, INC. including, without limitation, a warranty of merchantibility, fitness for a particular purpose and non-infringement."

There is no U.S. release and apparently they want you to make arrangements to have it installed at a service center instead of "doing it yourself". Those people need jobs and something to do, right? I don't blame them. The instructions are in German but have illustrations and some English terms to allow a reasonably savvy computer literate person to proceed with a successful installation.

I recall that the provider of the file a while back pointed out that over a 100 of us on this forum have downloaded the file. I'm grateful that I was able to do that and after a few timeouts have my 3806 updated even when I followed the instructions.

[aaronwt]

Definitely woirth the upgrade. Fortunately my HTPC has a serial port that I use to upgrade my VP50 and the 3806 upgrade went without a hitch. For me it allows me to keep the 3806 another year before upgrading. Without it I would have needed to get a new receiver that accepts 7.1 pcm. So this upgrade was very cost effective for me.

[topuk]

Hi all, I have just joined this forum and I would like you to advice me throughout my problem; after upgrading new firmware announced on Denon.eu site (xxx.0027 version) at the beginning everything seemed to be fine, but when I put the Star Wars II DVD with Dolby Digital EX output, there is no input for it on 3806! Only DD was there. I tried it with different DVDs but the same ... I reapply the firmware in case, nothing changed.

Does anyone has the same problem or know the solution.

Thanks in advance.

Regards.
Tolun

[topuk]

+++

I have surround back on, and Matrıx On function is working. It also works with DTS-ES movies, no problem with them. The only missing DSP is DD-EX.

thanks.

[shamus]

+++

I have surround back on, and Matrıx On function is working. It also works with DTS-ES movies, no problem with them. The only missing DSP is DD-EX.

thanks.
If you have 7.1, you want it set to IIX.
Change matrix to IIX-c and you should be fine.

[assassin]

I have a question about playing digital sources in Multizone 2. I know that typically its analog but someone on here said that there is usually a work around so that you can play digital.

Please tell me your opinion in this thread. (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=851173)

[topuk]

I tried it again. I don't know why but after reapplying the same firmware and running Auto Setup feature (first time), DD-EX came back (not for SW-EP2 :cool: but SW-EP1&3 and other DD-EX DVDs).

Using AFDM setting OF and MATRIX ON, everthing is much better.

thank you very much.

regards.

tolun

[Wulfgar]

I have my 3806 hooked up to my Oppo DV-970HD DVD player via HDMI. I have 7.1 speaker setup. When I watch a Dolby Digital movie, the main display says "MULTI CH IN". If I watch the same movie on my 360 I get "Dolby D +PLIIx c". Can anyone tell me what MULTI CH IN is and how I can get it to go back to DD? I tried this with a regular Dolby Digital 5.1 movie (Braveheart) and Dolby Digital EX (Star Wars Revenge of the Sith) and I get the same results. I have the latest firmware version.

Thanks much.

Jim

[Doug4960]

If you read through this thread you'll note that there have been scores, if not hundreds, of complaints concerning the AVR 3806's inability to output HDMI signals passed through it from a variety of sources. However, this has been noted mostly with cable/SAT set-top boxes, not DVD players. Denon has not been able to fix this, and I don't know of any successful workarounds other than using component cables.
I was able to fix my HDMI issue by updating the firmware on my Denon DVD-3910. The HDMI signal now passes through the 3806 to the projector without a problem.

[shamus]

I have my 3806 hooked up to my Oppo DV-970HD DVD player via HDMI. I have 7.1 speaker setup. When I watch a Dolby Digital movie, the main display says "MULTI CH IN". If I watch the same movie on my 360 I get "Dolby D +PLIIx c". Can anyone tell me what MULTI CH IN is and how I can get it to go back to DD? I tried this with a regular Dolby Digital 5.1 movie (Braveheart) and Dolby Digital EX (Star Wars Revenge of the Sith) and I get the same results. I have the latest firmware version.

Thanks much.

Jim
You probably have your Oppo set to PCM instead of Bitstream. Set it to Bitstream and you should be fine.
Bitsream= Player just passes the audio to the receiver to do the decoding.
PCM= Player decodes the audio and passes it as PCM to your receiver.

[Wulfgar]

You probably have your Oppo set to PCM instead of Bitstream. Set it to Bitstream and you should be fine.
Bitsream= Player just passes the audio to the receiver to do the decoding.
PCM= Player decodes the audio and passes it as PCM to your receiver.

Thanks Shamus...
It was indeed the fact that the Oppo was not sending Bitstream, but to enable it I had to go into the Oppo setup and change all the speaker sizes to large as well. Weird, but it worked, so thanks! My bad for thinking it was this fine Denon product.

It Shamus from Big Lebowski? Or is it like the Gaelic "Seamus"? I have a nephew named Seamus...the Gaelic form of James. Anyway...way of track but thanks again!

Jim

[shamus]

Thanks Shamus...
It was indeed the fact that the Oppo was not sending Bitstream, but to enable it I had to go into the Oppo setup and change all the speaker sizes to large as well. Weird, but it worked, so thanks! My bad for thinking it was this fine Denon product.

It Shamus from Big Lebowski? Or is it like the Gaelic "Seamus"? I have a nephew named Seamus...the Gaelic form of James. Anyway...way of track but thanks again!

Jim
No problem... its Shamus for being Irish.

[tigerkn]

Please let me know if there is a way to adjust the Dimmer feature using the remote control?

[keenan]

Please let me know if there is a way to adjust the Dimmer feature using the remote control?
As far as I know, no, you can't dim the the front panel with the 3806 remote. You can dim the front panel with the 3805 remote, and in fact, many universal remotes may be pre-programmed to dim the panel. I use the same Harmony 880 that I had programmed for my 3805 on the 3806 and the dimmer function works perfect.

[mrgc40]

Looking for guidance about getting my multi zone to work correctly. I have a speakercraft control center hooked up into the surround back outputs and am recieving audio out through my pool speakers via an analog connection. How do I shut off the main speakers in the system while listening to the zone 2 pool speakers? I figure it is through the trigger settings but I cannot get them to shut down the main speakers. Thank you in advance.

[vigga]

Hi-
Can anyone provide some english instructions on updating the 3806? I have the firmware downloaded, but can't seem to get this to work. Thanks!

[tigerkn]

Rookie question for 3806 owners:
If plp own 3806 with 120 wpc and their speakers rated at about the same wpc,
why are they adding separate Amp (200 - 300 wpc)?
Does it really make a much bigger different in sound quality and / or power?

Please help me understand this. Thanks in advance!

[tigerkn]

bump..

[htwaits]

Rookie question for 3806 owners:
If plp own 3806 with 120 wpc and their speakers rated at about the same wpc,
why are they adding separate Amp (200 - 300 wpc)?
Does it really make a much bigger different in sound quality and / or power?

Please help me understand this. Thanks in advance!I don't own a 3806, but I'm looking to buy one second hand.

One use for a separate amp is to drive the front left and right main speakers. That will take a big part of the load off of the 3806 power supply.

At the moment I'm using a 17 year old Adcom stereo amp to do just that. I think it improved both the FL, FR, and center channel audio quality. I'll probably use two Outlaw 2200 M-block mono amps to do the same thing when I find a 3806 to buy.

Maybe at some point I'll get the center channel it's own mono amp. :rolleyes:

[s2silber]

I was able to fix my HDMI issue by updating the firmware on my Denon DVD-3910. The HDMI signal now passes through the 3806 to the projector without a problem.
Okay, but what about passing HDMI signals from SAT/Cable STB's through the 3806?

[ckelly33]

I have a Denon 3806 and am looking at the new HD-DVD & BluRay players. One of the differentiators between the BR players is the ability to do lossless sound (TrueHD, etc.). As an owner of the 3806, should I even be concerned about these sound modes? Can the 3806 do lossless sound produced by one of these players???

[s2silber]

I have a Denon 3806 and am looking at the new HD-DVD & BluRay players. One of the differentiators between the BR players is the ability to do lossless sound (TrueHD, etc.). As an owner of the 3806, should I even be concerned about these sound modes? Can the 3806 do lossless sound produced by one of these players???
Yes, it can do lossless sound from a player capable of such production using the analog multichannel inputs. I can also do lossless audio using DenonLink from a Denon DVD player and, I believe, via an HDMI Ver. 1.2 connector.

[jolson97]

I had tried multiple times to do this firmware update and it would never work until I read about changing the settings on the serial port buffer. After changing the settings I tried the firmware update and it started but froze up during the main firmware update. The system won't even power on now. Everything I have ever read implies this outcome during a firmware upgrade is the worst possible scenario. Do I now have a very expensive paperweight or can Denon fix this?

[ckelly33]

I had tried multiple times to do this firmware update and it would never work until I read about changing the settings on the serial port buffer. After changing the settings I tried the firmware update and it started but froze up during the main firmware update. The system won't even power on now. Everything I have ever read implies this outcome during a firmware upgrade is the worst possible scenario. Do I now have a very expensive paperweight or can Denon fix this?

I have no solution to your problem, but I am curious: what is the update supposed to do? And where did you find it? I went to Denon's website and nothing was there for the 3806. I did a search of this thread for 'firmware' and read many of the hits back to January and I did find that it was via Denon's German site.

I saw that it had something to 7.1 pcm and "other fixes"...what other fixes? I have 5.1 so the 7.1 changes are of no importance to me at this time.

BTW, good luck with your problem. Firmware updates gone bad are notirious for bricking affected units but I have found my way out of similar problems with the help of a good CSR, which is a rare find these days.

[jolson97]

The only reason I did the firmware update was to help with the HDMI switching. There are some HDMI audio components that the 3806 would have trouble with the video on and I was not using the HDMI switch because I couldn't get it to work with my Epson projector although it would work with an older LCD TV I had. Many people reported the firmware as fixing there HDMI video problems.

[norge]

Just want to be sure.....Correct me if I am wrong:

Speakers set to Large and crossover set to say 60Hz:

LFE implies all low frequencies sent to speakers
LFE+MAIN implies all low frequencies sent to speakers and frequencies below 60Hz sent to sub as well

Speakers set to Small and crossover set to 60Hz:

LFE implies frequencies below 60Hz are not sent to speakers but are sent to sub.

LFE+MAIN in this case what would be the result? I cannot test it myself at the moment. What is its use?

[IndieRockSteve]

seems the 3806 has been discontinued, anyone know of a mail-order place that may have some in stock still with a decent price? (I already tried J&R and Crutchfield)

thanks!

EDIT: N/M, my EPP came through, great price on the 3806!

[MaDequipment]

EDIT: N/M, my EPP came through, great price on the 3806!

As far as my knowledge goes, EPP stands for employee purchase program. If this is correct and don't mind me asking, what employer gives discounts for the 3806?

[IndieRockSteve]

As far as my knowledge goes, EPP stands for employee purchase program. If this is correct and don't mind me asking, what employer gives discounts for the 3806?

It's through a company called Intech out of NY.

[ckelly33]

I have seen several posts that the 3806 will pass through 1080p/24. Should the 'Video Convert" insdie the Video Setup menu be switched to off in order to do so, or does it matter?

[IndieRockSteve]

well, UPS delivered my 3806 today. I set it up enough to allow my housemates to watch TV and DVD's and listen to the radio. I got the 12V trigger setup with my power center so that now one button turns everything on and another turns everything off. I LOVE that the remote comes with what seems to be all the features as discrete buttons, that makes my universal remote and me very happy!

So far it sounds great, but I haven't had much chance to really listen and compare to my old Parasound AVC-1800. I do need to buy the Oppo though, for my library of DVD-A and SACD, to replace my old Toshiba universal player (with no HDMI =(

Great unit, as far as setup and everything so far. When i get my HDTV in a few weeks I'll get to enjoy it even more =D

Is it worth getting an extended warranty on this unit through Mack or the like? Anyone have an opinion on this?

thanks!

[Scalefreq]

well, UPS delivered my 3806 today. I set it up enough to allow my housemates to watch TV and DVD's and listen to the radio. I got the 12V trigger setup with my power center so that now one button turns everything on and another turns everything off. I LOVE that the remote comes with what seems to be all the features as discrete buttons, that makes my universal remote and me very happy!

So far it sounds great, but I haven't had much chance to really listen and compare to my old Parasound AVC-1800. I do need to buy the Oppo though, for my library of DVD-A and SACD, to replace my old Toshiba universal player (with no HDMI =(

Great unit, as far as setup and everything so far. When i get my HDTV in a few weeks I'll get to enjoy it even more =D

Is it worth getting an extended warranty on this unit through Mack or the like? Anyone have an opinion on this?

thanks! ,<quote>

I usually dont buy insurance/warranty if the Denon warranty is already there....btw, where did you find yours? Was it a closeout deal?

Thanks,

Pat

[IndieRockSteve]

I usually dont buy insurance/warranty if the Denon warranty is already there....btw, where did you find yours? Was it a closeout deal?

Thanks,

Pat

I purchased it through Intech out of NY, they are on my EPP at work.