I posted back in Oct about problems with my first 3930. My second has been much more reliable. The one thing I still have problems with is Pure Direct. If I try and change the mode while the player is doing something it occasionally locks up. Or If I try and push other buttons as it is turning on and off the various circuits it will tend to lock up. I always change the Pure Direct Mode with the player completely stopped or no disk and push the button slowly giving it time before doing anything else. I have not had any other problems with the player. I dont know if this is what is happening to the other people with lock up problems.

You should report that to Denon. They've had new firmware, that's already available in Europe, but they've yet to make it available on the U.S. website. If enough people call.... :) :) :) We did get 2 firmware's update's allready in europe . :) :) :)

Yes indeed, When you do have problems with the player call Denon.

Only if there are lots of user calls with the same problems they will post or make update's for the player.

If it is a new bug they are going to investigate the bug first.


Please, CALL DENON.

I've been using my 3930 mostly for listening to CD and SACD. I've noticed that it has been locking up recently. The disc just freezes. If I advance to the next cut it then plays fine. It doesn't do this very often, but it seems like it's been increasing.
I was wondering if anyone else has experienced this?
yeah, this is probably the same basic occurence I'm experiencing.

I'm beggining to wonder if this behavior is moreso directly related to playing SACD's and DVD-A's? Being that the firmware and related mechanism's are switching into a different mode (from say CD's, or even DVD-Movies).

I'm hoping the Denon web-site is updated soon with the latest firmware updates (I would imagine pretty soon).

I called Denon Customer Service a few weeks back in regards to all this and he sort of gave me an attitude when I questioned him about the availability of any related existing firmware for the DVD-3930CI, he just replied with a very im-personal corporate response- "stay tuned".

The one thing I still have problems with is Pure Direct. If I try and change the mode while the player is doing something it occasionally locks up. I always change the Pure Direct Mode with the player completely stopped or no disk and push the button slowly giving it time before doing anything else.exactly what I experience. I use Pure Direct mode exclusively for [all] music sources. It's easy to accidentally enable "PURE DIRECT" select button while disc is still loading.

Now I've learned, I try to let the machine completely process after it is powered-ON, or when I load (or switch) to a new disc. The firmware, and related mechanism's, have to complete their "procedure" before any new commands are issued or the unit becomes hung-up.


I dont know if this is what is happening to the other people with lock up problems.Some other, more rare, occasions I'll switch to a different particular disc (usually an SACD or DVD-A) and the unit becomes hung-up and essentially does'nt do anything. I have to enable the (small) master power switch, the unit powers-OFF. I re-enable the master power switch, the unit powers-ON. The unit comes up re-set and okay. Don't know if this is a "disc compatibility" issue or what?

Yes indeed, When you do have problems with the player call Denon. Only if there are lots of user calls with the same problems they will post or make update's for the player.The Europe version of the DVD-3930CI is essentially the same as the U.S. version (of course other than related euro-specific functions), however, I don't understand why they would hold-out this long for the U.S. unit's? Denon has to be seeing the same issues across the board. And I'm sure they've been getting many calls in regards to this unit- just look at the many problems, and concerns, that have been listed in this thread.

Why can't you find the 2930 and the 3930 in local retail store (i.e., BB, CC, or Tweeter)?
I am a little hesitant about ordering such an expensive player online.

Build Date: July 2006

BE: 8284
Making Day: 711
DSP: 8250
IP: 060711

Anyone with a US model and build date in 2007 care to check their firmware info?

Dutchman01... Do you know whether the second firmware update rolled in the first update or whether both updates need to be applied. Also, which was posted first on the German site: the 3930ci or 4306 update?

Thanks.

Build Date: July 2006

BE: 8284
Making Day: 711
DSP: 8250
IP: 060711

Anyone with a US model and build date in 2007 care to check their firmware info?

Here is my configuration:
BE = 8284
MAKE DAY = 711
DSP = 8250
IP = 060711

I purchased my unit just before Christmas from CrutchField.

What does "make day" mean?

Why can't you find the 2930 and the 3930 in local retail store (i.e., BB, CC, or Tweeter)?
I am a little hesitant about ordering such an expensive player online.

We are strongly pushing the HD/Br players. With the market all "goo goo gaa gaa" over 1080p, it's tough enough to sell 1930's with a 350$ price point. Customers know that for another 150 they can get an HD player. Go to any Magnolia and ask for a 2930 or 3930. The special order process takes less than 3 weeks. The good news is it won't be a model that has been sitting around in a warehouse. It will be dropped shipped straight from Denon.

Has anyone compared the CD audio between the 2930 and 3930? I recently demoed the 2930 and, while it had a very good picture quality, I found the stereo sound to be too bright (in direct mode) on my system. Unfortunately, I cannot demo the 3930 to compare.

I am currently using a Pioneer 757 and would like to upgrade. Any thoughts on these 2 players' stereo sound quality?

I have also found the Marantz DV 9600 for about $70 more than the 3930. Would that player be a worthwhile alternative to the Denons?

Thanks!

Has anyone compared the CD audio between the 2930 and 3930? I recently demoed the 2930 and, while it had a very good picture quality, I found the stereo sound to be too bright (in direct mode) on my system. Unfortunately, I cannot demo the 3930 to compare.

I am currently using a Pioneer 757 and would like to upgrade. Any thoughts on these 2 players' stereo sound quality?

I have also found the Marantz DV 9600 for about $70 more than the 3930. Would that player be a worthwhile alternative to the Denons?

Thanks!

From an audio standpoint I believe the Marantz 9600 would be a worthwhile alternative to the 3930. Don't know about the video side of things.

I have a 2930 and do not find it bright, but then again I have what one might consider a "warm" system: Arcam amp, 20 year old KEF speakers.

I compared the 2930/3930 side by side at the dealer. My focus was SACD but I did try a couple of redbook CDs and the differences were similar regardless of format.

They had it set up using a Denon receiver (2807?) and B&W 600 series speakers.

The 2930 sounded nice, very nice. When I played the same tracks on the 3930 I had a hard time telling the difference....it seemed only subtly better. It was when I went back to the 2930 that the differences became more readily apparent. The soundstage seemed to collapse. More, closer, listening revealed a much larger soundstage in all three directions with the 3930 and more solid, well defined, bass. I can't say I found either any more or less "bright" than the other.

The main discs I used were Isaac Hayes "Shaft" SACD, Diana Krall "The Look of Love" SACD and a Joni Mitchell comp w/HDCD.

Though I like the 2930 I have decided to upgrade to the 3930.
Hope this helps.

What does "make day" mean?I'm curious myself. Does this mean the day on which the initial firmware version was burned onto the new unit (ie. MAKE DAY = 711 correlate to -> July 11)?

I'm curious myself. Does this mean the day on which the initial firmware version was burned onto the new unit (ie. MAKE DAY = 711 correlate to -> July 11)? I'm clueless.

WestCoastD... What's the build date for your unit? (Build date is on a sticker on the back of my unit.)

From an audio standpoint I believe the Marantz 9600 would be a worthwhile alternative to the 3930. Don't know about the video side of things.

I have a 2930 and do not find it bright, but then again I have what one might consider a "warm" system: Arcam amp, 20 year old KEF speakers.

I compared the 2930/3930 side by side at the dealer. My focus was SACD but I did try a couple of redbook CDs and the differences were similar regardless of format.

They had it set up using a Denon receiver (2807?) and B&W 600 series speakers.

The 2930 sounded nice, very nice. When I played the same tracks on the 3930 I had a hard time telling the difference....it seemed only subtly better. It was when I went back to the 2930 that the differences became more readily apparent. The soundstage seemed to collapse. More, closer, listening revealed a much larger soundstage in all three directions with the 3930 and more solid, well defined, bass. I can't say I found either any more or less "bright" than the other.

The main discs I used were Isaac Hayes "Shaft" SACD, Diana Krall "The Look of Love" SACD and a Joni Mitchell comp w/HDCD.

Though I like the 2930 I have decided to upgrade to the 3930.
Hope this helps.

Just curious. Has anyone checked out the Marantz 9600 ($2,100. list!) It seems to be the only competition for the Denon 3930.

I had the 3930 in my house for approx 30 minutes before it died. The picture quality over HDMI at 1080p was superb - and in a direct A/B comparison clearly superior to my aging 2900. I liked everything about it except the chapter skip function (both fwd and rev) which was much slower than my 2900. Menu's were kinda slow too. Wonder how the Marantz performs in these two areas? (I'm back on the Crutchfields 3930 waiting list as they sold out immediately).

We are strongly pushing the HD/Br players. With the market all "goo goo gaa gaa" over 1080p, it's tough enough to sell 1930's with a 350$ price point. Customers know that for another 150 they can get an HD player. Go to any Magnolia and ask for a 2930 or 3930. The special order process takes less than 3 weeks. The good news is it won't be a model that has been sitting around in a warehouse. It will be dropped shipped straight from Denon.


Thanks for the info!

Has anyone compared the CD audio between the 2930 and 3930? I recently demoed the 2930 and, while it had a very good picture quality, I found the stereo sound to be too bright (in direct mode) on my system. Unfortunately, I cannot demo the 3930 to compare.

I am currently using a Pioneer 757 and would like to upgrade. Any thoughts on these 2 players' stereo sound quality?

I have also found the Marantz DV 9600 for about $70 more than the 3930. Would that player be a worthwhile alternative to the Denons?

Thanks!
The Rang's description of the differences between the sound quality of the 2930 vs. 3930 echo my observations exactly when I compared the two models myself. I haven't sampled the Marantz DV 9600, but while I'm sure the audio quality would be as good or better, I can't imagine it would be as good as the Denon '3930 for video which uses the best processing chips on the market today.

The Rang's description of the differences between the sound quality of the 2930 vs. 3930 echo my observations exactly when I compared the two models myself. I haven't sampled the Marantz DV 9600, but while I'm sure the audio quality would be as good or better, I can't imagine it would be as good as the Denon '3930 for video which uses the best processing chips on the market today.


Thank you all for the replies.

Even though I have a warm-sounding receiver (Arcam AVR300), my speakers (Monitor Audio RS6) are on the bright side. I think that is why the 2930 sounded much too bright (with CD music). If there is a chance that the 3930 is as bright as the 2930 then that would be a real shame as I'd love to buy such a good player.

On the other hand, when I demoed the 2930 I connected it to my receiver via analogue stereo connects. I did not think of listening to CD music via digital coaxial and letting the Arcam's DACs do the processing. Has anyone compared the two types of connection?

Anyway, how much better is the PQ on the 3930? Unfortunately, there is no way for me to demo it. If the PQ difference is not so big, then I think it would be better to get the 2930 and a standalone CD player such as the Cyrus CD6s (I live in Europe). Otherwise, I'd love to buy the 3930 to replace my Pioneer DV757! I mainly watch DVDs with an Epson projector on a 110 inch screen, and I am looking to improve the PQ.

:)

Build Date: July 2006

BE: 8284
Making Day: 711
DSP: 8250
IP: 060711

Anyone with a US model and build date in 2007 care to check their firmware info?

Dutchman01... Do you know whether the second firmware update rolled in the first update or whether both updates need to be applied. Also, which was posted first on the German site: the 3930ci or 4306 update?

Thanks.

The first update is gone and changed for the last one.

all fixes for the first firmware are insite the second update.

that is a nice thing isn't it?

i like it.



3930 firmware did came out first aftyer that the 2930 and after that a few weeks later or so the 4306 and after that about one week later the 3806 firmware.

Here is my configuration:
BE = 8284
MAKE DAY = 711
DSP = 8250
IP = 060711

I purchased my unit just before Christmas from CrutchField.

Did got mine unit on 22-12-2006

this does display my unit:

BE 8284-3
Make Day C25
DSP 8250
IP 060802


little info for some users,

Firmware update's does Not Update the Build Date of the unit.

From an audio standpoint I believe the Marantz 9600 would be a worthwhile alternative to the 3930. Don't know about the video side of things.

I have a 2930 and do not find it bright, but then again I have what one might consider a "warm" system: Arcam amp, 20 year old KEF speakers.

I compared the 2930/3930 side by side at the dealer. My focus was SACD but I did try a couple of redbook CDs and the differences were similar regardless of format.

They had it set up using a Denon receiver (2807?) and B&W 600 series speakers.

The 2930 sounded nice, very nice. When I played the same tracks on the 3930 I had a hard time telling the difference....it seemed only subtly better. It was when I went back to the 2930 that the differences became more readily apparent. The soundstage seemed to collapse. More, closer, listening revealed a much larger soundstage in all three directions with the 3930 and more solid, well defined, bass. I can't say I found either any more or less "bright" than the other.
.

Compare the DVD 3930 and 2930 on a 2807 is not a good way.
The DVD-3930 was made for the AVR-4306 and AVR-4806.

The bottleneck here is the AVR-2807.
That unit doesn't let you hear al the potential from the 3930.

The 3930 sounds indeed mutch better than the 2930 on a 4306 or 4806.
On my system the 3930 sound better analoog (2-Channel out) than digital output.

i did have both units tested on the the top model AVR. before i did buy it.


The main discs I used were Isaac Hayes "Shaft" SACD, Diana Krall "The Look of Love" SACD and a Joni Mitchell comp w/HDCD.

Though I like the 2930 I have decided to upgrade to the 3930.
Hope this helps.

Compare the DVD 3930 and 2930 on a 2807 is not a good way.
The DVD-3930 was made for the AVR-4306 and AVR-4806.

The bottleneck here is the AVR-2807.
That unit doesn't let you hear al the potential from the 3930.

The 3930 sounds indeed mutch better than the 2930 on a 4306 or 4806.
On my system the 3930 sound better analoog (2-Channel out) than digital output.

i did have both units tested on the the top model AVR. before i did buy it.

This is very encouraging :)

If the difference was significant (to my ears) through the 2807 then I should theoretically hear an even bigger difference through my Arcam. It hasn't arrived yet but I'm certainly looking forward to it

all fixes for the first firmware are insite the second update.
that is a nice thing isn't it?i like it. Yep, I agree. One last question... Were the instructions for the 3930 update in English, as were the 4306 instructions. Thanks.

Yep, I agree. One last question... Were the instructions for the 3930 update in English, as were the 4306 instructions. Thanks.


Yes but the flash is working on a compleet other way,
no rs-232 poort needed but a cd-r to burn the map with the firmware iso insite it.


Firmware is us/english but you must burn it on cd first according to ISO 9660.
after that you must make shure that there is no cd or dvd is in the player and the player is connected to your TV.

PRESS the PLAY Button and the SKIP FORWARD Button for 3 seconds at the same time , INITIALIZE WILL COME ON THE SCREEN.

Insert the cd with the firmware, update process starts automatic,

wait till your screen report COMPLETE
(cd will automatic come out)

pull the disc out
tray will stay open and doesn't close

press power off little button


press power on button

PRESS the PLAY Button and the SKIP FORWARD Button for 3 seconds at the same time , INITIALIZE WILL COME ON THE SCREEN again.

all done.

What is the best vendor, or good vendor, to purchase AVIA calibration software?

Is it available in stores (BestBuy, CIrcuitCity, etc.,...)?

Yep, I agree. One last question... Were the instructions for the 3930 update in English, as were the 4306 instructions. Thanks.

From your question and your location, I gather you're going to try updating a region 1 3930 with the european firmware ? Let us know how it works out, I've been considering this as well.

From your question and your location, I gather you're going to try updating a region 1 3930 with the european firmware ? Let us know how it works out, I've been considering this as well.Yes, I'm considering it. Over on the AVR-4306 forum, a number of us have updated our receivers using the "European" firmware with no ill effects.

Edit:
...updating a region 1 3930...I probably should also add that my 3930ci was purchsed in the US but has already been modified with an SDI output and to play all regions (1 through 6).

Well, I got antsy waiting for someone else to report on being the test case for using the euro firmware on a US 3930, so I loaded it tonight. So far so good. Installed on the first time, still plays region 1 DVDs. I'm very happy that it fixed an issue I was having with not finding the SACD layers on a hybrid disk that I have. (That all I have done with it so far.)

Well, I got antsy waiting for someone else to report on being the test case for using the euro firmware on a US 3930, so I loaded it tonight. So far so good. Installed on the first time, still plays region 1 DVDs. I'm very happy that it fixed an issue I was having with not finding the SACD layers on a hybrid disk that I have. (That all I have done with it so far.) Aaron... How or from where did you get a copy of the firmware? I can not locate it on the German site.

Aaron... How or from where did you get a copy of the firmware? I can not locate it on the German site.


Check post #2051 in this thread for the link and a s/n to use.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9672206&&#post9672206

Well, I got antsy waiting for someone else to report on being the test case for using the euro firmware on a US 3930, so I loaded it tonight. So far so good. Installed on the first time, still plays region 1 DVDs. I'm very happy that it fixed an issue I was having with not finding the SACD layers on a hybrid disk that I have. (That all I have done with it so far.)

The Firmware later on the us site and the firmware in europe are not different when it comes for the regio.

All regio's are in the firmware.
the player knows what regio it must select.

see otherwise the regio hack posted in this treat,
works on the same way on all models.

Check post #2051 in this thread for the link and a s/n to use.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9672206&&#post9672206Thanks Aaron. I only started reading this thread recently and obviously did not make good use of the dreaded search engine.

Well, I got antsy waiting for someone else to report on being the test case for using the euro firmware on a US 3930, so I loaded it tonight. So far so good. Installed on the first time, still plays region 1 DVDs. I'm very happy that it fixed an issue I was having with not finding the SACD layers on a hybrid disk that I have. (That all I have done with it so far.)


Nice that the Europe firmware also fix your player,
That means that the firmware's are for all models over the whole world.
( I was already 99% shure for that.) :) :) :)

(It's less expensive on this way to bring out one firmware and also technical people at service centers can't flash the fault one on this way.)

Rest me 2 thing at the moment right now. :rolleyes:

Why do we get the firmware's update's first in Europe on the service page and not in the USA?
Is there a Denon Firmware page in Japan or China out there? :rolleyes:
maybe someone knows, please report.


Aaron S, maybe you can explane to the users here how to burn the firmware on cd.
I know it can only on one way, ISO 9660 (no joliet) burning,
and the firmware must also stay in its unzipped map.

(I think you can explane it better than me becouse i'm dutch, your english will be a lot better.)

Your English is a heck of a lot better than my German so I ran the update documentation thru the Goggle auto translator, which is always good for a laugh. There is only one sentence I'm not confident about and so I'll probably hold off running the update until I can talk to the guys who initially modified my 3930. The "English" translation of the sentence that bothers me is at the end of the document: " Please you note the fact that after the update non certified software may not be up-played since this entails function restrictions of the Players." Seems to suggest that bad things could happen if you have non-certified software, which I might. Regardless, here is the complete Googlish version of the document (Note this info is protected by by copyright, so no commercial use! And, as always, USE AT YOUR OWN RISK.):

Duplication, publication in the Internet or other commercial use of the software and the associated documentation are forbidden and are criminally pursued without written permission of the right owner. © 2007 DENON Germany

Warning: Read yourselves this guidance before use of the update CD please completely. The use of the provided CD happens on own danger. DENON does not take over adhesion for damage, which results from the inappropriate use of the software. Switch the equipment off under no circumstances during the update procedure and operate you no keys at the equipment or on the remote maintenance.

NOTE: Examine that the update CD contains a file (ed. The Babel auto-translator translated the word "file" as "folder"?) with the name DVD_3930. In this file (ed. The Babel auto-translator translated the word "file" as "folder"?) is the file D393SAVD.ROM! If this should not be the case, the CD and not an update of the software is useless cannot be used for!

Upgrade procedure:
1. If not already happen, close please a screen at the video and/or S-video-exit of the DVD-3930 on (see operating instructions, page 9). [ ed. Connect the video display to the 3930 via a video or s-video port. ] Switch the DVD-3930 and the screen on!
2. Guarantee that is no CD or DVD in the Player and the drawer of the DVD Players is closed. Initialize the equipment, by pressing the keys PLAY (��) and SKIP FORWARD (��) at the Player at the same time longer than 3 seconds (to INITIALIZE on the screen one indicates).
3. Open the drawer of the DVD Players! Insert the update CD 1 and to close you the drawer!
4. Please you are waiting, until the drawer opens automatically. On the screen first Updating appears during this time: Reading from DISC, afterwards Writing ton of FLASH - Erase, Writing ton of FLASH - Write as well as Writing ton of FLASH - Verify. After completion of the update shows the display COMPLETE, the drawer opens automatically.
5. Take the Disc and switch you off the DVD-3930 at the small power switch (ON/COFF) completely.
6. Switch the DVD-3930. Initialize the equipment, by pressing the keys PLAY (��) and SKIP FORWARD (��) at the Player at the same time longer than 3 seconds (to INITIALIZE on the screen one indicates). Notes: All attitudes of your DVD Players were put back during the update to factory settings. Please you lead the SETUP again out (see operating instructions, starting from page 13)!

Please you note the fact that after the update non certified software may not be up-played since this entails function restrictions of the Players. © 2007 DENON Germany At the land resistance 19, 41334 nice valley. All rights reserve!

Compare the DVD 3930 and 2930 on a 2807 is not a good way.
The DVD-3930 was made for the AVR-4306 and AVR-4806.

The bottleneck here is the AVR-2807.
That unit doesn't let you hear al the potential from the 3930.

The 3930 sounds indeed mutch better than the 2930 on a 4306 or 4806.
On my system the 3930 sound better analoog (2-Channel out) than digital output.

i did have both units tested on the the top model AVR. before i did buy it.

Just ordered mine two days ago straight from Denon. Will take a few weeks to come in. I can't WAIT! The funny thing is i'll be hooking it up to a 1906 for a few months until the '08 series come out. Plan on hooking this bad boy up to a 3808 or the 4808. Haven't decided yet. This is gonna be the longest three months of my life!

Hoping someone out there can help me out.

I have a 2930 connected via Denon Link 3 to an AVR4306. It works great for DVD-A and SACD playback. But when I put in a regular DVD to watch a movie, I get no sound. The player thinks it is putting out the DD 5.1 track, but the AVR 4306 sees no signal.

Anyone have a clue what I should be checking? Obviously, I have my inputs correctly assigned on the AVR4306 since I get everything correct from SACD and DVDA. Also, the HDMI video works like a champ. Just no audio on regular movies. :(

I tried turning off the Denon Link and switching to HDMI audio, and I am able to get a signal, just nothing better than a stereo feed, even though I go in and change the HDMI audio settings. I tried both MultiChannel and Linear PCM and can't get anything better than stereo.

I don't think it's the AVR 4306 as I am able to receive DD5.1 and DTS from both my PS3 and my HD-A1 over the HDMI inputs.

Any help is truly appreciated.

Hoping someone out there can help me out.

I have a 2930 connected via Denon Link 3 to an AVR4306. It works great for DVD-A and SACD playback. But when I put in a regular DVD to watch a movie, I get no sound. The player thinks it is putting out the DD 5.1 track, but the AVR 4306 sees no signal.

Anyone have a clue what I should be checking? Obviously, I have my inputs correctly assigned on the AVR4306 since I get everything correct from SACD and DVDA. Also, the HDMI video works like a champ. Just no audio on regular movies. :(

I tried turning off the Denon Link and switching to HDMI audio, and I am able to get a signal, just nothing better than a stereo feed, even though I go in and change the HDMI audio settings. I tried both MultiChannel and Linear PCM and can't get anything better than stereo.

I don't think it's the AVR 4306 as I am able to receive DD5.1 and DTS from both my PS3 and my HD-A1 over the HDMI inputs.

Any help is truly appreciated.

Is the 4306 set to Auto for the signal?
I always leave mine on this.

It is now! You, sir, are a genius. I can't believe I missed that. Everything now works as expected. :)

Just ordered mine two days ago straight from Denon. Will take a few weeks to come in. I can't WAIT! The funny thing is i'll be hooking it up to a 1906 for a few months until the '08 series come out. Plan on hooking this bad boy up to a 3808 or the 4808. Haven't decided yet. This is gonna be the longest three months of my life!
You mean the 4308.... correct?
3 months? Is that the time table for the new Denon receivers?

dc

You mean the 4308.... correct?or is he referring to the DVD-3930CI?

You mean the 4308.... correct?
3 months? Is that the time table for the new Denon receivers?

dc

Sorry, i meant the DVD player will be about 3-4 weeks and the receiver will be about 3-4 months. A few '08 models (receivers) should be coming out then!

Aaron S, maybe you can explane to the users here how to burn the firmware on cd.
I know it can only on one way, ISO 9660 (no joliet) burning,
and the firmware must also stay in its unzipped map.

(I think you can explane it better than me becouse i'm dutch, your english will be a lot better.)

I was able to update the firmware on my 3930CI that I bought from Hong Kong with the European firmware.

You definitely need to unzip the files but I kept the 3930_DVD folder as well as a copy the image file in the root directory on the CD. You need to uncheck joliet option before burning the CD.

Hopes this help.

Ok guys, I have a question. I originally ordered a 3930 at the beginning of February. With delays etc., etc., it has finally arrived. Now here is the question. In the interim of waiting for the 3930, the dealer gave me a brand new 2930 to use...and I like it. Is the 3930 THAT much better than the 2930 that I need to upgrade, or is it really just an esoteric issue between the two players? I have heard of a chroma bug in the 2930 at 1080i output. Also, when I played Star Wars: ANH, I noticed the sand on Tatooine when R2 and 3PO crash looked kind of reddish??? Is this the chroma bug popping up? To sweeten the pot, I get the 3930 at a substantially reduced price...on the order of only three figures...just a hair under the 4 figure mark. So, with that...do you think I should upgrade...or is this a no brainer? Any help would certainly be appreciated.

Thanks!

Receiver: 4306
Display: Panasonic TH-50PH9UK
Sound system: Infinity Alpha

You know your own budget considerations, but I would say that the audio and video differences between the '3930 and '2930 are more than just "esoteric," particularly when it comes to audio, which your AVR 4306 will optimize quite nicely. The price you indicate for the '3930 is also just about wholesale, making it a real bargain. Earlier in this thread there's a pretty concise comparison from one poster about the differences betwen these two players that echoed my own comparisons when shopping the two players.

Ok guys, I have a question. I originally ordered a 3930 at the beginning of February. ... So, with that...do you think I should upgrade...or is this a no brainer? Any help would certainly be appreciated.

Look at post 1339, page 45, where I made a comparison between the two. I have been using my 3930 for 3 months now, with no problems whatsoever. A week ago I got the latest firmware upgrade. Oddly enough, I think I noticed a slight improvement in PQ from DVDs, although nothing is mentioned about PQ in the description of what the upgrade accomplishes. Well, there is one problem: I have to get a full HD (1920x1080) display to be able to fully exploit the player's capabilities (my current display is a Pioneer Elite 5060).

Andy

I was able to update the firmware on my 3930CI that I bought from Hong Kong with the European firmware.

You definitely need to unzip the files but I kept the 3930_DVD folder as well as a copy the image file in the root directory on the CD. You need to uncheck joliet option before burning the CD.

Hopes this help.

Thats indeed the right way to burn the flash cd, any other way will fails to update.

Well, I took the advice at hand as well as reading much of the thread...and I can now say I am the proud owner of the latest and greatest 3930!! Date stamp February 2007! Yay!! Party favors for everyone! :D I won't have a chance though to give it a spin until this weekend! I hope it is everything everyone says it is! It's kind of like waiting in anticipation of a big movie! I am often let down....like Episode I for example. :eek: But, I am sure, everything will go as planned. Thanks all!

I'm jealous. I'm still on back-order from Crutchfield. Hoping for a Feb build date as well.

Good choice SierraMikeBravo!

I'm still waiting too. When I first approached the dealer about upgrading they had stock. By the time I decided to pull the trigger they were out. And still are.
Oh well, at least my income tax refund ought to be here by the time the player arrives.

It's funny....all my friends ask if it's a Blue Ray player at that price. The look on their faces when I say "No" is priceless. They really do think I'm crazy ;)

Good choice SierraMikeBravo!

I'm still waiting too. When I first approached the dealer about upgrading they had stock. By the time I decided to pull the trigger they were out. And still are.
Oh well, at least my income tax refund ought to be here by the time the player arrives.

It's funny....all my friends ask if it's a Blue Ray player at that price. The look on their faces when I say "No" is priceless. They really do think I'm crazy ;)

I have a Blu-ray player (Sony) that cost half as much - but it sucks on upconverting SD DVD's as well as their layer change (see Secret's review). So I need the 3930 just for my extensive SD collection. But - yea - it's pricy.

I have a Blu-ray player (Sony) that cost half as much - but it sucks on upconverting SD DVD's as well as their layer change (see Secret's review). So I need the 3930 just for my extensive SD collection. But - yea - it's pricy.

Which Sony Blu-Ray costs half as much as the 3930?

Up here in Canada the Denon starts out more expensive but after a decent discount it's not much that more than the Sony BDP-1. Unless you are talking PS3.

Sony is coming out with a Blu-ray player in June which lists for $599 (U.S.). Model number slips me.

Sony is coming out with a Blu-ray player in June which lists for $599 (U.S.). Model number slips me.

Thanks :)

Found it here: http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=124

BDP-S300

Probably just the ticket for someone like me. I don't care or expect it to be a giant killer on SD-DVD or have hi-rez audio capability.

There is only one sentence I'm not confident about and so I'll probably hold off running the update until I can talk to the guys who initially modified my 3930. The "English" translation of the sentence that bothers me is at the end of the document: " Please you note the fact that after the update non certified software may not be up-played since this entails function restrictions of the Players."

A better translation of the sentence that's bothering you would be "Please note that after the update, no uncertified software may be installed, since this function will be restricted by the player." I'm not sure exactly what they mean by "uncertified software," but it is clear they are referring to the firmware. This seems to suggest that future firmware updates will have to be "certified" in order to install. In other words, "custom" firmware hacks will be blocked. Hmmm...interesting...

Can someone please tell me how you check the firmware version on the Denon DVD-3930, or at the very least, point me in the direction via a link? Thanks!

Can someone please tell me how you check the firmware version on the Denon DVD-3930, or at the very least, point me in the direction via a link? Thanks!

How to check your firmware on the DVD-3930

1) power off (true the little on/off switch)
2) hold Play en Open/Close buttons at the same time
3) power on (true the little on/off switch)
4) release hold Play en Open/Close buttons
5) press on the remote control the buttons 3 2 6 5
6) press Menu button to see various revision info

^^^^ You almost need 3 hands to to that! :) Reminds me of the digital watch commercial on SNL many years ago.

larry

I am trying to setup the Audio for my Denon DVD-2930 and it will not let me set the Audio Output - the white line under the label is missing for everything other than Compression on the Audio menu. The Audio Output is set to the default Multi Channel - but I cannot enter the dropdown and setup the speakers for the multi channel output.

I currently have HDMI and the 5.1 audio output connected to my processor. There are no other audio or video connections from the Denon DVD-2930. I intend on using HDMI for everything other than SACD. I have the HDMI Audio Setup set to Multi (Normal).

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Make sure that Denon Link is not activated in the menu, even if you don't have a Denon Link connection.

I am trying to setup the Audio for my Denon DVD-2930 and it will not let me set the Audio Output - the white line under the label is missing for everything other than Compression on the Audio menu. The Audio Output is set to the default Multi Channel - but I cannot enter the dropdown and setup the speakers for the multi channel output.

I currently have HDMI and the 5.1 audio output connected to my processor. There are no other audio or video connections from the Denon DVD-2930. I intend on using HDMI for everything other than SACD. I have the HDMI Audio Setup set to Multi (Normal).

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

On my 3930 I found the "HDMI Audio Setup" had to be on 2ch in order to change the Audio Setup feature other than "Compression".

On the 2930, is it possible to have DL3 and HDMI output and active simultaneously?

my Denon DVD-2930 will not let me set the Audio Output - the white line under the label is missing for everything other than Compression on the Audio menu. I cannot enter the dropdown and setup the speakers for the multi channel output. As sbwright mentions, (on the DVD-3930CI) the "HDMI Audio Setup" had to be on 2ch in order to change the Audio Setup feature other than "Compression".

I experienced the same behavior with my DVD-3930CI as well (see post's #1860 & 1870). Hopefully the logic is similiar with your DVD-2930. These machines, while exceptionally nice, are a little un-easy to understand initial set-up (especially using manual).

Sony is coming out with a Blu-ray player in June which lists for $599 (U.S.). Model number slips me.

David, will it have full BD-J implementation, or at least do all audio codecs? I think we won't see a cooked BD player until after November.

I doubt it will decode all the audio codecs for that price.

I doubt it will decode all the audio codecs for that price.


I thought BluRay was all about the picture.

Audio codecs?

Now I'm confused.
Dolby Digital and dts in various configurations (5.1, 6.1...123.1 ;))

Is there more? (If so I haven't been playing close enough attention)

Just got a Denon 3930ci, after having a 3800 for years. Hooked it up via HDMI to my Mitsu 65 DLP (65831). On most material, looks great, but I am having a problem with color banding on solid gradients (like the new line picture logo at the start of LOTR, or the "smoke" in the start up of "Gladitor"

It is a Feb 07 mfg date, should have the latest and greatest firmware... is this an HDMI artifact? I have not tried component yet... :eek:

David, will it have full BD-J implementation, or at least do all audio codecs? I think we won't see a cooked BD player until after November.what's "BD-J"? and what's "cooked"?

what's "BD-J"? and what's "cooked"?

BD-J allows bonus content on Blu-ray Disc titles to be far more sophisticated than bonus content provided by standard DVD, including network access (such as for downloading updated trailers or accessing live studio events), picture-in-picture and access to local storage. I should let him state what he means by cooked but I suspect he means includes all audio decoding internally and handles BD-J. Blu-ray is running behind HD DVD in getting all of the functionality operational in players and encoded on discs. Unfortunate for anyone that has already purchased a player that won't handle it all, like me.

Chris

How to check your firmware on the DVD-3930

1) power off (true the little on/off switch)
2) hold Play en Open/Close buttons at the same time
3) power on (true the little on/off switch)
4) release hold Play en Open/Close buttons
5) press on the remote control the buttons 3 2 6 5
6) press Menu button to see various revision info

Thanks, Dutchman01.

denon 2930 is getting good reviews, did some one compare it with tosiba xa2, and if it can do pal to ntsc and is region hackable

BD-J allows bonus content on Blu-ray Disc titles to be far more sophisticated than bonus content provided by standard DVD, including network access (such as for downloading updated trailers or accessing live studio events), picture-in-picture and access to local storage. I should let him state what he means by cooked but I suspect he means includes all audio decoding internally and handles BD-J. Blu-ray is running behind HD DVD in getting all of the functionality operational in players and encoded on discs. Unfortunate for anyone that has already purchased a player that won't handle it all, like meI see..........thanks for the input!

denon 2930 is getting good reviews, did some one compare it with tosiba xa2, and if it can do pal to ntsc and is region hackable
Yes and Yes.
The 2930 can do both the conversion and made region free.

Adri.

David, will it have full BD-J implementation, or at least do all audio codecs? I think we won't see a cooked BD player until after November.

I'm not sure - but, I doubt it will since June is right around the corner.

Yes and Yes.
The 2930 can do both the conversion and made region free.

Adri.


Heh, thanks Dude!

Now where can I find that hack/firmware?and Any resource for a good deal?

I wish Kris wiuld have reviewed it for Secret soon!

I'm pretty sure the region free hack is in this thread somewhere.

larry

I'm pretty sure the region free hack is in this thread somewhere.

larry

I tried to search but nothing conclusive! Lookin for 2930, region free! Any help, will be hugely appreciated! thanks

I tried to search but nothing conclusive! Lookin for 2930, region free! Any help, will be hugely appreciated! thanks


http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8779187&&#post8779187

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8779187&&#post8779187

many thanks aaron!

Yikes :eek: !! Just pulled the trigger on the Denon DVD-3930CI to go along with my Panasonic 50" TH-50PF9UK (the new 1920x1080 1080p version plasma)... hope it was worth it... $1200 for a DVD player that doesn't do the dishes and make the bed is a bit high... :D.

Yikes :eek: !! Just pulled the trigger on the Denon DVD-3930CI to go along with my Panasonic 50" TH-50PF9UK (the new 1920x1080 1080p version plasma)... hope it was worth it... $1200 for a DVD player that doesn't do the dishes and make the bed is a bit high... :D.

I was at Magnolia and they had a $10,000 65" Panasonic plasma (not sure of model number) and a cheap DVD player hooked up to it (name slips me) playing the SD DVD of King Kong and initially, I thought it was the actual HD DVD version - but it was not. I mean it looked amazing. I'm not sure how your display compares but if it's in the same line, wow!

Just pulled the trigger on the Denon DVD-3930CI... hope it was worth it... $1200 for a DVD player that doesn't do the dishes and make the bed is a bit high...well, it does'nt do the dishes, but it does evoke excellent audio and video capabilities.

I was at Magnolia and they had a $10,000 65" Panasonic plasma (not sure of model number) and a cheap DVD player hooked up to it (name slips me) playing the SD DVD of King Kong and initially, I thought it was the actual HD DVD version - but it was not. I mean it looked amazing. I'm not sure how your display compares but if it's in the same line, wow!

It's the 65PX600U. If they are following the plano, they should've had the Panasonic BluRay player playing a BlueRay Disc. "Open Seasson" on BluRay going natively 1080 to 1080 on 65" looks :eek: I think i'm gonig to replace my display with Happy Feet in BluRay when i go in tomorrow.

Yikes :eek: !! Just pulled the trigger on the Denon DVD-3930CI to go along with my Panasonic 50" TH-50PF9UK (the new 1920x1080 1080p version plasma)... hope it was worth it... $1200 for a DVD player that doesn't do the dishes and make the bed is a bit high... :D.

My 3930 is going to be on back order for another month :( It's ok. I kinda wanted to replace everything all at once to get that "blown away" factor. Looks like that will have to happen now anway. COME ON 3808! GET BUILT AND SHIPPED!

(replacing 1920, 1906, with audioquest dig. coax VDM-3 with 3930, 3808 with dig. coax VDM-5) :D

My 3930 is going to be on back order for another month :( It's ok. I kinda wanted to replace everything all at once to get that "blown away" factor. Looks like that will have to happen now anway. COME ON 3808! GET BUILT AND SHIPPED!

(replacing 1920, 1906, with audioquest dig. coax VDM-3 with 3930, 3808 with dig. coax VDM-5) :D

I *THINK* mine got shipped this morning, but there was some mix up with the credit card company, so I dont have a tracking # yet...

I too am replacing just about my entire system at once with 1080p stuff... my current stuff was all from circa 1997 :(. All composite / CRT / optical based. This system is going to be all HDMI based :).

Are there any 2930/3930 owners reading along that can confirm that HDMI and DenonLink3 can be active at the same time?

replacing audioquest dig. coax VDM-3 with VDM-5the manager at a popular local audio dealer (The Sound Factor, Pasadena) swears by these VDM-5 digital interconnects- believes they yield the best sound-quality for digital-coax connection.

Was just checking out the Burr Brown website. comparing the DACS used in the 2930/3930

The 1796 in the 3930 has 10db more dynamic range (123 vs. 113) and lower THD (0.0005 vs. 0.001) than the 1791 in the 2930.
I know it's more than just a numbers game (liked improved power supply sections, shielding etc.) but that extra 10db of dynamic range has to be a big factor in the improved sound IMHO when listening to the two models.

Was just checking out the Burr Brown website. comparing the DACS used in the 2930/3930

The 1796 in the 3930 has 10db more dynamic range (123 vs. 113) and lower THD (0.0005 vs. 0.001) than the 1791 in the 2930.
I know it's more than just a numbers game (liked improved power supply sections, shielding etc.) but that extra 10db of dynamic range has to be a big factor in the improved sound IMHO when listening to the two models.

Aren't the DACs meaningless if you use a digital audio connection such as HDMI or optical? If you care about sound and are using analog audio, I dunno what to say :).

As close as those #'s are, I doubt you would notice much difference in the real world.

I bought the 3930 for the RealtaHQV scaling and don't expect I'll see much over a RealtaREON scaler. I just knew if I went with the 2930, I'd forever regret not getting the 3930. I'm oc like that ;).

I have yet to find any material on the web or on the forums to justify 2x the price on the 3930 though. Yeah, it uses some "higher grade" parts, but not a single one of them is going to translate to a noticable difference in the real world.

I think once you go above the 2930, you are mostly catering to "spec chasers".

Aren't the DACs meaningless if you use a digital audio connection such as HDMI or optical? If you care about sound and are using analog audio, I dunno what to say :).

As close as those #'s are, I doubt you would notice much difference in the real world.

I bought the 3930 for the RealtaHQV scaling and don't expect I'll see much over a RealtaREON scaler. I just knew if I went with the 2930, I'd forever regret not getting the 3930. I'm oc like that ;).

I have yet to find any material on the web or on the forums to justify 2x the price on the 3930 though. Yeah, it uses some "higher grade" parts, but not a single one of them is going to translate to a noticable difference in the real world.

I think once you go above the 2930, you are mostly catering to "spec chasers".

You are 100% correct...the DACs make no difference if using a digital out connection for audio.
However many of us choose to use the analog outs where those DACs come into play. For us the audio capabilities are as important as the video.

The 3930 does sound quite a bit better.
I'm no expert but I have gleaned enough knowledge over the years to know that a 10db difference in signal to noise ratio is significant. IMHO I feel the improved soundstaging can be at least partially attributed to that. :)

You knew you'd regret not buying the 3930?..... we are definitely on the same page with this point...

You knew you'd regret not buying the 3930?..... we are definitely on the same page with this point...

I have moments of regret, having purchased the 2930, but I still don't think I want to double my spend right now.

You are 100% correct...the DACs make no difference if using a digital out connection for audio.
However many of us choose to use the analog outs where those DACs come into play. For us the audio capabilities are as important as the video.

The 3930 does sound quite a bit better.
I'm no expert but I have gleaned enough knowledge over the years to know that a 10db difference in signal to noise ratio is significant. IMHO I feel the improved soundstaging can be at least partially attributed to that. :)

You knew you'd regret not buying the 3930?..... we are definitely on the same page with this point...

So you'd get better sound using the 5.1 analog outputs vs. optical/digital coax/HDMI? If so, are we talking SIGNIFICANTLY better sound? Like one that everybody will hear on your average speakers and AVR? By average I mean NOT $3000 a pair speakers or a $5000 AVR. More like the Polk Audio / Infiniti class speakers which are pretty damn good and a ~ $1000 class AVR.

I mean, yeah, I wouldn't call a $1200 DVD player average, and I am having a bit of buyers remorse before even getting the thing for having spent that much, but oh well, too late now.

I bought the 3930 for the RealtaHQV scaling and don't expect I'll see much over a RealtaREON scaler. I just knew if I went with the 2930, I'd forever regret not getting the 3930. I'm oc like that ;).



I asked a Silicon Optix insider "oyfoo" a while back on the forum the differences between the Reon and Realta in the Video Processor forum.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=692309&page=3&pp=30&highlight=reon



DavidHir: I recently demo'd the new Denon 2930 and 3930 DVD players. However, for film-based Region 1 DVDs, the deinterlacing and scaling seems to be very, very similar with both players which is to say EXCELLENT. What, if any, differences or improvements in deinterlacing and scaling can the Realta provide over the Reon for typical film-based DVD material? Are they almost identical in this regard? Thanks.

oyfoo: Realta and Reon VX are pretty equal in their deinterlacing and scaling performance. Realta can generate output resolutions all the way out to 2560x1600 (looks spectacular when scaling 1080i material), and Reon VX only goes out to 1080p.

He also stated in another post:

...Let me just say that Reon VX performs many algos just as good as Realta, and surprisingly better in a couple of them, but Realta, in general does better, and can continue to be improved because its algos can be reprogrammed, re-tweaked, and re-optimised. That's why we have "HQV Powered by Teranex" as a logo approved for Realta-based products, and plain "HQV" for Reon VX-based products. Realta does better owing to its use of the massively parallel, pixel-oriented Teranex architecture. The Teranex Xantus box probably has in excess of 3 Teraops/sec image processing capability (Realta has about 1 Teraop just within its video processor, not including a couple other processing engines). Specifically, the Reon's edge diagonal processing is just as good as Realta's standard algo load (Realta's could be improved even more, but there is a point of diminishing returns, and why sacrifice other functions just to improve processing of a line inclined just a couple more degrees closer to horizontal), and maybe a shade better. Having said that, not all of our customers elect to implement all the algos we make available to them, for reasons that baffle us sometimes.

so $100 samsung will have realta?

Reon.

Crutchfield just shipped my replacement 3930 to me. Should have it this Tuesday. Be interesting to see what the build date is.

I asked a Silicon Optix insider "oyfoo" a while back on the forum the differences between the Reon and Realta in the Video Processor forum.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=692309&page=3&pp=30&highlight=reon



DavidHir: I recently demo'd the new Denon 2930 and 3930 DVD players. However, for film-based Region 1 DVDs, the deinterlacing and scaling seems to be very, very similar with both players which is to say EXCELLENT. What, if any, differences or improvements in deinterlacing and scaling can the Realta provide over the Reon for typical film-based DVD material? Are they almost identical in this regard? Thanks.

oyfoo: Realta and Reon VX are pretty equal in their deinterlacing and scaling performance. Realta can generate output resolutions all the way out to 2560x1600 (looks spectacular when scaling 1080i material), and Reon VX only goes out to 1080p.

He also stated in another post:

...Let me just say that Reon VX performs many algos just as good as Realta, and surprisingly better in a couple of them, but Realta, in general does better, and can continue to be improved because its algos can be reprogrammed, re-tweaked, and re-optimised. That's why we have "HQV Powered by Teranex" as a logo approved for Realta-based products, and plain "HQV" for Reon VX-based products. Realta does better owing to its use of the massively parallel, pixel-oriented Teranex architecture. The Teranex Xantus box probably has in excess of 3 Teraops/sec image processing capability (Realta has about 1 Teraop just within its video processor, not including a couple other processing engines). Specifically, the Reon's edge diagonal processing is just as good as Realta's standard algo load (Realta's could be improved even more, but there is a point of diminishing returns, and why sacrifice other functions just to improve processing of a line inclined just a couple more degrees closer to horizontal), and maybe a shade better. Having said that, not all of our customers elect to implement all the algos we make available to them, for reasons that baffle us sometimes.

I think I saw that thread when I was going back and forth on which one to get.

Sounds a lot like "well, the Realta is more scalable and has more headroom then the Reon, but you probably wont see much difference right now between the two in the real world".

Basically the whole 2930 vs. 3930 sounds a lot like "if this and if that and if this2 and if that2 and ...... if that50, etc and you hop on one foot while doing the indian rain dance, the 3930 will look and sound better" :D.

I guess I really should have "rented" both the 2930 and the 3930 from my local store and auditioned them on my TV... oh well... too late for that... the 3930 is coming on friday :).

To MagnoliaPro2 and WestCoastD, I had an Audioquest VDM-5 on my 3930CI and it sounded great. Borrowed an Audioquest Hawk Eye from my dealer and was very impressed. The Hawk Eye made the soundstage bigger. I heard more details in movies. With that said, I bought the Hawk Eye and moved my VDM-5 to my HD/PVR box. If you can, try the Hawk Eye on the 3930CI. You won't be disappointed. :)

Crutchfield just shipped my replacement 3930 to me. Should have it this Tuesday. Be interesting to see what the build date is.
glad to see that you stuck it out, I think it's worth it.

Borrowed an Audioquest Hawk Eye from my dealer and was very impressed. The Hawk Eye made the soundstage bigger. I heard more details in movies.thanks, will have to look into the Hawk Eye. AudioQuest's stuff is so expensive (but I like it). I've been using their DiamondBack interconnects.

I have a 3930 and yes HDMI and DLink 3 are both active. DLink for audio and HDMI for video.

I have a 3930 and yes HDMI and DLink 3 are both active. DLink for audio and HDMI for video.

Thanks Quickster2 for that info.

glad to see that you stuck it out, I think it's worth it.
Hopefully me too. I have the Sony Blu-ray player and am just not happy w/ it's SD upconversion or crappy layer change (vs the 3930).

Hi

I am new to this website and these forums and have chosen this one out of all the others as after having had a look around it seems to be the best one to join.

I am a UK resident and bought my new Denon DVD3930 about a month ago as a replacement for my Arcam DV88+ because I needed a good player to upscale my pretty large DVD library. My monitor is a very old Panasonic TH-42PW5. I'm saving my pennies for a new monitor, which I'll be able to afford at the end of this year.

It’s frustrating not being able to enjoy the benefits of HDMI, but my budget restricts me to having to upgrade one thing at a time and I’m of the opinion I was better off getting the player I want now and waiting to get my new monitor when I can afford it.

As soon as I got my 3930 I searched around the web for the code to make it region free; found it; did it and have been happily viewing until tonight when I put in my Korean DVD of INFERNAL AFFAIRS 2. Everything was going fine until about the half-hour point when the picture started breaking up. I’m not familiar with the technical term for this type of glitch. I’ve read a few terms like “combing” and “macroblocking” but these don’t mean anything to me.

Anyway, I ejected the disc and reloaded it, picked it up from the point where I left off and had about twenty minutes of trouble-free playback but then the same problem occurred with the picture stopping and starting, breaking up with bunches and groups of pixels flashing across the screen. Gutted, I ejected the disc and switched the player off, left it for a few minutes and tried again but the same thing happened in the same place on the disc.

I loaded up a region 2 DVD and watched an episode of THIS LIFE with no problems. I haven’t got another DVD player to check if the IA DVD has problems in another unit, but, I watched INFERNAL AFFAIRS 2 on my old Arcam player with absolutely no problems, so I have no idea how to diagnose this problem. Thinking that the problem might be something to do with Korean discs, I played my Korean PAN’S LABYRINTH DVD but there were no problems there.

I’m fairly sure there’s no disc fault with INFERNAL AFFAIRS because of the trouble-free playback I had with my Arcam but I’m seriously concerned because I’ve only had a chance to watch a fraction of my discs on the 3930 and am desperate to find out if this is a player or disc problem.

Does anyone know or have any ideas how I can find out what the problem is. I won’t be able to get a replacement of the INFERNAL AFFAIRS DVD because it’s a limited edition that’s now out of print. Any replies with ideas or suggestions will be most welcome.

I assume you cleaned the disc and tried it again. Some players handle scratched/dirty discs better than others. Did you look at the disc to see if it was scratched? Although it did successfully play a part of the disc that it failed to do the first time. And, welcome. :)

larry

Thanks for the advice. Yes I did try cleaning it but I'm very meticulous with my discs, throwing a hissy fit if I so much as get a fingermark on one. That said, I took your advice and had another close look at the disc.

I'm taking the DVD over to a friend's house either today or tomorrow and trying it on his Pioneer player to see what happens. I have a bad feeling it's my 3930 at fault, though. I watched this IA2 disc twice on my Arcam and there was never any problem with it.

By the way, I think I might be posting on the wrong area of the site for this sort of thing. Should I posting this problem elsewhere?

By the way, I think I might be posting on the wrong area of the site for this sort of thing. Should I posting this problem elsewhere?

You can let it stay here, no problem at all.

let us know the results in your friends house.

by the way what firmware version has your player.

I've taken the DVD over to my friend's place and it plays fine. I am mystified.

I've had a look in the specs page of the manual searching for the firmware version but I can't see it anywhere. Where else can I look to find this? Will I find it on the box?

As long as you think it's a 3930 problem, this is the place. :) So far it seems like it is a problem or a "feature" of the 3930. It seems like you are not using HDMI for audio also so using HDMI for both is not a cause of the problem.

larry

I can't use HDMI because my plasma's ancient. I bought the 3930 with the intention of it being my main DVD player and for upscaled playback of my discs when I get around to being able to afford my new monitor.

My connections for picture are Chord Component leads (I forget the model), and for audio I use Chord's Signature co-ax cable.

I'm having kittens at the moment. I just put INFERNAL AFFAIRS 2 back in my 3930 and started playback from about 10 minutes before the point where I was experiencing serious problems. I was sitting there waiting for it to start going wrong but it sailed through 25 minutes of uninterrupted playback without so much as a flicker - so I have no idea what the hell's going on but I'm pretty certain this is a problem with the 3930, not the DVD, as surely the problem would've recurred in the same place?

I'm wondering if I should sit down later tonight and try watching the film from beginning to end and see what happens - the only trouble is, it will be such a boring exercise. I was in the mood for IA2 last night but not really tonight, but I suppose I ought to watch it to try and get to the bottom of the problem.

In the meantime, I'm not sure if I should contact the dealer where I bought my player and tell them about these problems, even though at the moment I don't appear to be having any problems with the 3930.

Anyone know how I can find out what firmware version my player's got - it's not in the manual. Do I need to ask the dealer where I bought the player to find this out?

I started watching IA2 and the problem's still there. I've found that by skipping a few chapters (about 5 or 6, I think) playback resumes normally with no problems. I'm confused and have no ideas left apart from one, which is to see if a mate will let me borrow the same DVD and see what happens.

Hacked off.

How to check your firmware on the DVD-3930

1) power off (true the little on/off switch)
2) hold Play en Open/Close buttons at the same time
3) power on (true the little on/off switch)
4) release hold Play en Open/Close buttons
5) press on the remote control the buttons 3 2 6 5
6) press Menu button to see various revision info



latest firmware can be found here:

h**p://firmware.denon-online.eu/index.php

its german language but easy to understand

OK, I followed these instructions and this is what I got:

BE 8284
Make Day 711
DSP 8250
IP 060802

None of this means anything to me, except for the make day, which I assume means 7 November.

I followed the link but I'm afraid I don't understand a word of German and I can't find anything at Denon UK.

Can anyone tell me what the above information means and how it might help me with my problem?

A better translation of the sentence that's bothering you would be "Please note that after the update, no uncertified software may be installed, since this function will be restricted by the player." I'm not sure exactly what they mean by "uncertified software," but it is clear they are referring to the firmware. This seems to suggest that future firmware updates will have to be "certified" in order to install. In other words, "custom" firmware hacks will be blocked. Hmmm...interesting...VideoFreek... Thanks for the translation. Just catching up after being on vacation for a week.

just tried to renew the firmware on my 3930 and failed. It wont read the CD. Just says READING then STOP. Thats it.

Any clues why this doesnt work?

Thanks.

A.

Hi. This is my first time posting on this forum. I recently purchased the DVD-2930. It is connected to my avr4806 via HDMI and D Link. I am really enjoying it especially with SACDs and DVD-A's.

I am hoping someone can explain the HDMI auto format. The manual states:

PANEL RES. (Upon purchase):
The number of pixels of the connected HDMI device’s panel is
detected and the HDMI output resolution is selected automatically.
Use this procedure to make the settings for the “AUTO” function
selected with [HDMI FORMAT] ( page 29).
MAX RES.:
The maximum resolution that can be input to the connected HDMI
device is detected and the HDMI output resolution is selected
automatically.

I am using a SONY CRT-type widescreen HDTV. The manual says it displays 1080i. When I set the HDMI auto format to Panel Res., the 2930 says it is scaling to 480p. I don't understand why it doesn't scale to 1080i. I assume it has something to do with number of pixels vs. maximum resolution. But I don't understand what that is all about.
Thanks in advance.

To MagnoliaPro2 and WestCoastD, I had an Audioquest VDM-5 on my 3930CI and it sounded great. Borrowed an Audioquest Hawk Eye from my dealer and was very impressed. The Hawk Eye made the soundstage bigger. I heard more details in movies. With that said, I bought the Hawk Eye and moved my VDM-5 to my HD/PVR box. If you can, try the Hawk Eye on the 3930CI. You won't be disappointed. :)

I have no money because of this site haha. If i wasn't saving some money up for the new Denon '08 series AVR's i would. Plus to satisfy my spending itch, i just ordered a BDI TV stand. We'll see in the future. Thanks for the recommendation though :)

Hey guys!

I've been looking for the region free code with instructions on how to change it for my Region 1 3930ci. Does anyone know where I can find this or can someone help me out with this? There is one particular region 2 DVD I would like to get! Please, any help is appreciated!

Thanks
Shawn

i just ordered a BDI TV stand.these are great stands. Which model No. did you order?

Hey all,

Does this hack work on region 1 players?

Denon DVD-2930/3930 multi-region handset hack

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1. Remove any disc currently in the unit.
2. Power off using the front panel On/Off button (not standby).
3. Press and hold Stop and Pause.
4. Keep the above buttons held and Power-up the player using the On/Off button, hold the above buttons until the players name disappears from the front panel.
5. Wait until the unit finishes LOADING and the front panel of the player shows 0:00:00.
6. On the remote handset, press in sequence; 7 3 1 9 4 6 2 8
7. The unit should enter standby mode. On the front panel of the player, press the Standby button to turn the unit back on.
8. To confirm the update, press on the front panel Stop and Skip Forward (>>I). The front panel should briefly display “Region_A2”. If not, then repeat the process 1-7 above.
__________________

SierraMikeBravo,

The hack worked for me on a region 1 2930ci.

HTH...

just tried to renew the firmware on my 3930 and failed. It wont read the CD. Just says READING then STOP. Thats it.

Any clues why this doesnt work?

Thanks.

A.

When you made the disk, did you have the file in the folder named DVD_3930 ?

When you made the disk, did you have the file in the folder named DVD_3930 ?

I did both: with the folder (which caused the disk to be named DVD_3930) and without (no name, just the file). Neither worked. The plasma is linked via HDMI, then I just pulled it out. To no avail :(

A.

Is anyone using a 2930ci @ 1080p with a 1080p native display?

I am curious if there are any pixels cropped at 1080p resolution.

Did anyone buy their Denon 2930 online from BestBuyPlasma or Butterfly Photo? If so, how was the service and was the Denon new as described or a refurb. I am trying to wait out the format war and want a solid player, but don't want to pay full retail of $850.00 for it. Both places have it for under $650.00 online.

Thanks!

I would have to say that if you buy from one of those places, you are looking at a refurb. I am not 100% sure, but neither are considered "authorized" A stock dealers, and I owned the 2930 which I picked up from an A stock dealer. They usually only charge a couple of bucks over cost because of the type of business they run which is not your usual high stereo shop. They provide sevices and equipment to corporations, so their profit is not built into the equipment, but service and installation as well as long term contracts. Hence, they sell the equipment for virtually cost. Anyway, they only charged me $675 for the 2930, and they told me cost WAS $650. So, that tells me, if either of these online retailers are charging under $650 for the player, it is a refurb. But, you never know, I could be wrong...not the first time! :) By the way, I upgraded to the 3930 through them and only paid $999 for it...A stock...since I had to wait 2 months for it to come in! Talk about cool! :)

I would have to say that if you buy from one of those places, you are looking at a refurb. I am not 100% sure, but neither are considered "authorized" A stock dealers, and I owned the 2930 which I picked up from an A stock dealer. They usually only charge a couple of bucks over cost because of the type of business they run which is not your usual high stereo shop. They provide sevices and equipment to corporations, so their profit is not built into the equipment, but service and installation as well as long term contracts. Hence, they sell the equipment for virtually cost. Anyway, they only charged me $675 for the 2930, and they told me cost WAS $650. So, that tells me, if either of these online retailers are charging under $650 for the player, it is a refurb. But, you never know, I could be wrong...not the first time! :) By the way, I upgraded to the 3930 through them and only paid $999 for it...A stock...since I had to wait 2 months for it to come in! Talk about cool! :)

Thanks, that was my thinking too, that they were refurbs although their sites claim they are new. Can you tell me which a stock dealer you brought from if they were online. You can pm me if need be.

Thanks again.

I did both: with the folder (which caused the disk to be named DVD_3930) and without (no name, just the file). Neither worked. The plasma is linked via HDMI, then I just pulled it out. To no avail :(

A.

You definitely need to unzip the files but I kept the 3930_DVD folder as well as a copy the image file in the root directory on the CD.

uncheck joliet option before burning the CD and use nero.

Did anyone buy their Denon 2930 online from BestBuyPlasma or Butterfly Photo? If so, how was the service and was the Denon new as described or a refurb. I am trying to wait out the format war and want a solid player, but don't want to pay full retail of $850.00 for it. Both places have it for under $650.00 online.Unfortunately, I have had nothing but problems with the 2930 I purchased from Butterfly Photo. In addition to burned media compatibility problems (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=717926) the player now refuses to play most brand new retail DVD movies.

I attribute these issues to a faulty player and if I hadn't purchased a warranty with it, I would be out of luck as Denon will not honor their warranty from unauthorized dealers.

Received my 3930 yesterday w/ March 2007 build date. Have to put it through it's paces over the next 30 days to decide if it's a keeper (as was my 2900).

Unfortunately, I have had nothing but problems with the 2930 I purchased from Butterfly Photo. In addition to burned media compatibility problems (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=717926) the player now refuses to play most brand new retail DVD movies.

I attribute these issues to a faulty player and if I hadn't purchased a warranty with it, I would be out of luck as Denon will not honor their warranty from unauthorized dealers.


Moolicious,

Thanks for the warning. I had forgot about the Denon warranty issue.

I know this is expansive stuff for the most of us.

but when you buy something expensive like this it's better to have a good warranty on the product.

I know official dealer is more expensive, i don't take the risk that they honor warranty.

i think it cost a lot,
then that little extra monney for good support is important.

i did gladly buy from a authorized dealer.
my AVR-4306 is back to denon right now for a repair input board.

I would assume the 1080p output on the Denon 3930 is at 60hz (vs 24). Anybody know for sure?

You definitely need to unzip the files but I kept the 3930_DVD folder as well as a copy the image file in the root directory on the CD.

uncheck joliet option before burning the CD and use nero.

Dutchman01,
I guess what I did not do was not to copy the file into the root directory.

And I can not use Nero: I am a Mac user. Bac to the Mac :-) So I use Roxio Toast, but I use ISO 9660 format option.

A.

Received my 3930 yesterday w/ March 2007 build date. Have to put it through it's paces over the next 30 days to decide if it's a keeper (as was my 2900).

John - I would be interested in your comments vs your 2900. I too upgraded from a 2900 about a month ago. I won't say anything about what my comments are before you get a chance to evaluate. I'd like to compare notes after you've had some time with the 3930CI.

elove,

I too have decided to wait out the blu ray wars until things are better developed. I am waiting for third generation from Denon.

I just bought a refurb 2930ci with full warranty from a certified dealer on eBay for well south of $600. Shipping was another $35 or so. PM me for more details, but I could definetily have gotten in the mid 500's as I went only $50 under the buy it now price. My offer was immediately taken.

This was better than what I could find used, as many people have high price expections for thier used unit, although I did find one guy who was reasonable and realistic. He changed his mind though.

I am currently using a Denon 3800 on a freshly UMR calibrated Sony 70" XBR2 so I am very interested in what differences I will see.

Hi Friend here,
For your info, I’ve just replaced 2 pcs. of the DAC chip PCM1796 with PCM1792 at stereo board (right upper PCB). Immediately, I can hear my 3930 sound (from analog/RCA) improved a lot & up to difference level, very awesome & love it very much.

I got my DAC chip from:-
Part Number: - PCM1792DB
Order Code: - 120-7081
Company: - Farnell online store
Sales Hot Line: - 1 800 88 6223 (Toll Free)

Hi Friend here,
For your info, I’ve just replaced 2 pcs. of the DAC chip PCM1796 with PCM1792 at stereo board (right upper PCB). Immediately, I can hear my 3930 sound (from analog/RCA) improved a lot & up to difference level, very awesome & love it very much.

I got my DAC chip from:-
Part Number: - PCM1792DB
Order Code: - 120-7081
Company: - Farnell online store
Sales Hot Line: - 1 800 88 6223 (Toll Free)

that sounds intresting.

Hi Friend here,
For your info, I’ve just replaced 2 pcs. of the DAC chip PCM1796 with PCM1792 at stereo board (right upper PCB). Immediately, I can hear my 3930 sound (from analog/RCA) improved a lot & up to difference level, very awesome & love it very much.

I got my DAC chip from:-
Part Number: - PCM1792DB
Order Code: - 120-7081
Company: - Farnell online store
Sales Hot Line: - 1 800 88 6223 (Toll Free)
What's involved in switching the chips...do they just pop in and out or is it more complicated than that? Also, if you're ordering from that website, do you order just two pieces for the stereo analog out which leaves the other channels working off the existing 1796's?

Does anyone know if the 3930 outputs 480i in unaltered form? Earlier posts claim the 2930 de-interlaces and interlaces the 480i output which was degrading the PQ. I am concerned the 3930 is doing the same too. I want to send pure 480i output from the 3930 to an external VP.

TReg,

Wouldn't you just be better off using something like the Oppo 970 for pure 480i output for a processor? I would think one of the main reasons for a 2930 or 3930 is to use the deinterlacing/scaling abilities.

TReg,

Wouldn't you just be better off using something like the Oppo 970 for pure 480i output for a processor? I would think one of the main reasons for a 2930 or 3930 is to use the deinterlacing/scaling abilities.

Video is only half the equation. I am interested in the 3930 over the Oppo 970 due to the much better DACs in the 3930 for music listening. With the Oppo, I would have to depend on the pre-pro or a separate outboard DAC to get to a similar music quality as what the 3930 can offer from it's 2ch analog outputs.

That being said, I am still concerned that the 480i output from the 3930 may not be as 'pure' as the Oppo 970 if Denon is applying some sort of conversion to the process.

Is there any advantage to installing the German firmware on a US-only 3930?

Is there any advantage to installing the German firmware on a US-only 3930?

I was having an issue with a few hybrid SACDs not playing the SACD layers. The newer firmware resolved that issue. Also had a few DVD-audio discs that would hang on a chapter skip. That hasn't happened yet since the update.

Video is only half the equation. I am interested in the 3930 over the Oppo 970 due to the much better DACs in the 3930 for music listening. With the Oppo, I would have to depend on the pre-pro or a separate outboard DAC to get to a similar music quality as what the 3930 can offer from it's 2ch analog outputs.

That being said, I am still concerned that the 480i output from the 3930 may not be as 'pure' as the Oppo 970 if Denon is applying some sort of conversion to the process.If you can swing it, you may be better off with a 2 box solution. Get the 970 for SD DVD and some other player for audio. That way when you want to change audio, your video is left untouched. Once you divorce the two your audio options increase. However, 480i from the 3930 is more or less an "unknown". Why don't you get one and report back? :)

larry

What's involved in switching the chips...do they just pop in and out or is it more complicated than that? Also, if you're ordering from that website, do you order just two pieces for the stereo analog out which leaves the other channels working off the existing 1796's?

Correct me if I'm wrong but I'm pretty sure the 1796's are only used for 2 channel (and maybe the L/R in a multi channel mode).
Regardless, something else kicks in for the remaining channels, presumably a DAC lower on the Burr Brown totem pole.
I would think swapping the 1796 would have no effect on the DAC that looks after the centre and surrounds.

Looks like the 1792 has more dynamic range capability and slightly lower THD.
The big difference is Stop-Band attenutaion on the 8x Oversampling filter: -98db vs 130db on the 1792.

I have no idea what this means.
I'm not a spec guy but must admit to being curious on this one

s2silber,
You need ‘hot air’ (IC chip removing tool) or special solder tool (wider tip) to remove the SMD (28SSOP) chip, both chip’s pinout & control (hardware/software) are 100% compatible, you can replace it.
3930 uses 5 DAC chip for totals 8 audio channels, 2 for stereo channel (configure each as mono mode) at upper PCB; while the rest 3 are for suuround (6) channel at lower PCB.
Yes, I‘ve replace 2 pcs for stereo only. 1792’s consume more current than 1796’s (335mW vs. 180mW at 192kHz sampling; since the 3930 stereo can upsampling=AdvanceAL24); if you replaced it all 5 pcs. DAC, you might be also need to cosider to replace the audio power suply unit as well.

Are there any mod sites that will swap out the DACs? Seems like too cheap and easy a thing not to do, but only if you have the tools and a little electronics knowledge. Would have been happy to pay the extra thirty added to msrp.

I think i like this modification.

perhaps i do replace the other dacs to with a greater power supply too.

SACD And DVD-Audio multi channel must be more better to listen to i think.

Top model DVD-player Denon must be watch out for the 3930 only a lot cheaper,

yeahhhhhhhhhhhhhh. :) :) :)

s2silber,
You need ‘hot air’ (IC chip removing tool) or special solder tool (wider tip) to remove the SMD (28SSOP) chip, both chip’s pinout & control (hardware/software) are 100% compatible, you can replace it.I would'nt advise screwing around with removing and replacing chip's on a commercial product it's too easy to mess something up.

There are modders who like to mod the Denon products. Their design/setup may be better suited to modding, but other players can be modded also. Some modders put tube output stages in for audio. A lot of the modding involves replacing existing parts with higher grade parts that would have added more to the BOM (bill of materials) cost of the player. Since electronics have gotten so incredibly small over the years you need special tools and apparatus to to do some of the mods.

larry

Since electronics have gotten so incredibly small over the years you need special tools and apparatus to to do some of the modsexactly.

I'm an electrical design engineer (part electro-mechanical design/technician), I've seen some interesting "kitchen" techniques used to mount (or solder) small "surface-mount" sized chips onto PCB's in our development/test lab. One method called "hot-plating" involves the use of an actual electric cooking grill (or "hot-plate"), we carefully apply flux paste to each respective IC pad (for all IC's to be mounted), then carefully place and align each IC into position, then the PCB is placed onto pre-heated flat hot-plate surface (at prescribed temperature). Eventually the PCB is brought up to temperature and the flux expedites the flow of solder from the PCB pads to each respective IC terminal. Of course this is when you have a clean, prepared, PCB (or pre-removed IC pad).

Moreover, some of our clean-room certified technicians are able to carefully remove IC's from a PCB, while on the hot-plate, and replace with new, or different model, IC's.

Otherwise, I would rather let an experienced "modder" operation perform upgrades of this sort. Playing with some multi-layer PCB's can be a little delicate, especially for someone with no soldering experience.

Actually to swapping the chips is an easy job if you have the correct tool & experience on PCB repairing work before, I took around 15 minutes to finish it.
The main difference after the swap is the sound quality is significant improving, especially I am missing that before, likes more details/impact (in high & mid frequencies), & deeper bass.
Another thing is the sound volume also increases (since the output current is increase), I’ve to turn down the volume control from -18db to -21db at my Denon A1SE amplifier, for me that am okay, and mostly I use this analog stereo for CD & SACD 2 channel only. For movies, I use DLink cable.
Actually you can recalibrate it back to normal level, at the twins Rohm BA15218 I/V opamp (next to DAC chip), suppose to increase resistor value for the gain & feedback as the TiBB datasheet described.
After all, I am happy for swapping.

Dutchman01,
For audio, I prefer analog stereo (upper PCB, L+R; 2Channel) over analog surround/ multichannel (lower PCB, FL+FR+SL+SR+C+AS; 6Channel) out, are based on 2 lack off by the multichannel out as the below:-
1) Advance AL24 Processing (upper PCB only); 3930's can upconverting sampling rate from CD’s 44.1k/16bit; SACD’s 48k/24bit to 88.2k/96k~176.4k/192k 24bit (yet to confirm the rate by Denon).
2) Mono mode (upper PCB only); in this setting, the dynamic range can push to 132 db at 9V RMS.

so what you're saying is you replaced the DAC's [only] for your front Left & Right 2-channel nodes?

yes, i've replaced the DAC's only.

hcchoo,
You going to upgrade/swap any other parts past the DACs?

larry

Dutchman01,
For audio, I prefer analog stereo (upper PCB, L+R; 2Channel) over analog surround/ multichannel (lower PCB, FL+FR+SL+SR+C+AS; 6Channel) out, are based on 2 lack off by the multichannel out as the below:-
1) Advance AL24 Processing (upper PCB only); 3930's can upconverting sampling rate from CD’s 44.1k/16bit; SACD’s 48k/24bit to 88.2k/96k~176.4k/192k 24bit (yet to confirm the rate by Denon).
2) Mono mode (upper PCB only); in this setting, the dynamic range can push to 132 db at 9V RMS.


Wow,

132db at 9v RMS is a lot.

i think i wil contact a company here to mod my 3930.

Dutchman01,
For audio, I prefer analog stereo (upper PCB, L+R; 2Channel) over analog surround/ multichannel (lower PCB, FL+FR+SL+SR+C+AS; 6Channel) out, are based on 2 lack off by the multichannel out as the below:-
1) Advance AL24 Processing (upper PCB only); 3930's can upconverting sampling rate from CD’s 44.1k/16bit; SACD’s 48k/24bit to 88.2k/96k~176.4k/192k 24bit (yet to confirm the rate by Denon).
2) Mono mode (upper PCB only); in this setting, the dynamic range can push to 132 db at 9V RMS.thanks, very interesting. Would have been nice if you could have provided some images of these boards while you had them open (un-assembled).

Moreover, what's interesting to me with all this increased performance, do to the DAC upgrade, is why the manufacturer (Denon) does'nt just use these other higher performance chips (that were already available) anyway? The price is only a little more than the stock model IC's, and at the manufacturer's rate (for high-volume) it would'nt increase overall unit price [that] much.

Does anyone know the retail cost of these upgrade model DAC IC's?

thanks, very interesting. Would have been nice if you could have provided some images of these boards while you had them open (un-assembled).

Moreover, what's interesting to me with all this increased performance, do to the DAC upgrade, is why the manufacturer (Denon) does'nt just use these other higher performance chips (that were already available) anyway? The price is only a little more than the stock model IC's, and at the manufacturer's rate (for high-volume) it would'nt increase overall unit price [that] much.

Does anyone know the retail cost of these upgrade model DAC IC's?

about 50 dollars do cost 2 dacs

Well I broke down and bought the Denon 2930CI today. What settings should I use (default)? I will be pairing it with a Samsung HLS 6187.

Thanks!

hi everyone, ive had the 3930ci for about a month now. for the first hour of watching a movie it looks ok and I still see pixelation and jaggies , but then it seems like it starts working properly and no pixels , no jaggies , Almost looks HD, Its a huge difference in performance. Has anyone encountered this problem? what should i do? thanx chris
SETUP

denon 3930ci---- 1080i out to
pioneer 74txvi---- 1080i pass through to
jvc-70fh96--- 1080i gets deinterlaced to 1080P

Denon player setup
RGB 1080i (normal)
HDMI audio (LPCM)
HDMI auto format (panel resolution)
progressive mode (auto)

OK, I followed these instructions and this is what I got:

BE 8284
Make Day 711
DSP 8250
IP 060802

None of this means anything to me, except for the make day, which I assume means 7 November.

I followed the link but I'm afraid I don't understand a word of German and I can't find anything at Denon UK.

Can anyone tell me what the above information means and how it might help me with my problem?


h**p://firmware.denon-online.eu/index.php

at the page mark the "ja, ich habe den oben........" then hit "Weiter" button.

Modell: Choose your brand...lets say DVD-3939
Farbe: Choose your units colour...lets say silber (silver)
Seriennummer: enter your units serial bumber
then hit "daten senden"

New options emerges :)

download the zip file (Art : Firmware) the version number should be also stated on that page of the site.

unzip the file (remember to include the folder in the zipfile)
burn the folder with the firmware inside to an cdr in ISO 9660 format (no juliet) at 4x or slower. (data cd)

now for the upgrade:
Turn on the player while holding in the PLAY and SKIP FOWARD buttons..the player should now say INITIALIZE.
Open the dvdtray and insert the cdr and close. the update should start.
Should say COMPLETE when done, and the tray will open automaticly.
remove the cdr BUT DONT CLOSE THE TRAY YET.
turn of the player with the ON/off button (not the stanby)
Turn on the dvdplayer while holding the PLAY and SKIP FORWARD button. the player should say INITIALIZE again....turn of player....DONE :)

(This worked for my 2930 and should also work for the 3930)


if more questions, you could also ask Dutchman...he helped me :)

BUT DO THIS ON YOUR OWN RISKS ------

I just got my Denon DVD-3930CI. Are there any options I should tweak out of the box? Like HDMI mode? Also, what output format should I be in? RGB or YCbCr? I'm going to be going out from HDMI to a Panasonic TH-50PF9UK (true 1920x1080p plasma).

h**p://firmware.denon-online.eu/index.php

at the page mark the "ja, ich habe den oben........" then hit "Weiter" button.

....

(This worked for my 2930 and should also work for the 3930)


if more questions, you could also ask Dutchman...he helped me :)

BUT DO THIS ON YOUR OWN RISKS ------

Spec Trax:
Where are you located? The Germany Denon site does not accept the Serial # for my DVD-2930 (US version). Somewhere on the net I found a number that worked and I was able to download the firmware upgrade.
However I am weary of using the upgrade on my US model, especially because I haven't had any consistent problems.
I have emailed Denon twice about the upgrade and they have not answered me.
Thanks.
Maphiker

I have emailed Denon twice about the upgrade and they have not answered me. And, I doubt they ever will... I talked with Denon US customer service twice on the phone and they told me emphatically that no such update existed. BTW, I just did the update on my SDI modified US 3930ci this afternoon. So far, no problem...

And, I doubt they ever will... I talked with Denon US customer service twice on the phone and they told me emphatically that no such update existed. BTW, I just did the update on my SDI modified US 3930ci this afternoon. So far, no problem...

Funny that Denon USA does say that.

You can report them back to look at the Europe Denon support site and let us know what they have to say about that firmware update's there and why they are not on the usa site.

Firmware is for all models not only the europe models.

I just got my Denon DVD-3930CI. Are there any options I should tweak out of the box? Like HDMI mode? Also, what output format should I be in? RGB or YCbCr? I'm going to be going out from HDMI to a Panasonic TH-50PF9UK (true 1920x1080p plasma).
With YCbCr 4:2:2 you may be outputting 10big video which should be a win because of less color banding that can occur during scaling. The Realta is capable of 10bit video so I assume the Denon uses it.

larry

hcchoo,
You going to upgrade/swap any other parts past the DACs?

larry

PooperScooper,
Maybe, I will increase the opamp input & feedback resistor value, also the capacitor too; but not going to replace the remaining 3 DAC chip.

thanks, very interesting. Would have been nice if you could have provided some images of these boards while you had them open (un-assembled).

Moreover, what's interesting to me with all this increased performance, do to the DAC upgrade, is why the manufacturer (Denon) does'nt just use these other higher performance chips (that were already available) anyway? The price is only a little more than the stock model IC's, and at the manufacturer's rate (for high-volume) it would'nt increase overall unit price [that] much.

Does anyone know the retail cost of these upgrade model DAC IC's?

How to upload the image to here? I will be away for Shanghai this Wednesday night; will upload the board image later.
If Denon uses this DAC, so who else will buy the flagship model DVD-A1XV/5910CI?
The DAC cost around RM96.37 = USD26.66 each.

Spec Trax:
Where are you located? The Germany Denon site does not accept the Serial # for my DVD-2930 (US version). Somewhere on the net I found a number that worked and I was able to download the firmware upgrade.
However I am weary of using the upgrade on my US model, especially because I haven't had any consistent problems.
I have emailed Denon twice about the upgrade and they have not answered me.
Thanks.
Maphiker

Same problem with a 2930 here in Australia.
Could you message me the number you found that worked?

Funny thing with my 3930 is that it is black but the serial only worked if I chose silver.

You can report them back to look at the Europe Denon support site and let us know what they have to say about that firmware update's there and why they are not on the usa site.I told them about the German web site the first time I called and even gave the URL. I was told again that there was no update but they would check the site. On the second call I was told that "there was no update" and "if there were one on the German site" it could not be used on a US model. Go figure...?

Same problem with a 2930 here in Australia.
Could you message me the number you found that worked?

Funny thing with my 3930 is that it is black but the serial only worked if I chose silver.


black, silver..no biggie really

i used the serial i found on the cardboard box the player came in and it worked great. (10 digit number)

Im located in Norway (Europe) and the firmwares should work on the US models too

latest firmware for the 2930's is: 8283-7 (15th Jan 2007)

dunno with the 3930, but i think its: 8284-3

HERe is a direct link to the latest firmware i used for my 2930 (silver) USE ON YOUR OWN RISK:
Ver8283-7_DVD2930.zip
h**p://firmware.denon-online.eu/download.php?id=154715

I just brought my Denon 2930CI. I finally got around to setting it up. However, I have some questions about the settings. My TV is a Samsung HLS 6187 DLP.

Should I set it to YCBCR or RGB (What difference, if any, between the two)?
Should the picture adjust be standard?
At what setting should the black level be (O or 7.5)?
What should the RGB setting be (Normal or Enhanced)?
What player mode should I have it in (Audio or Video)?

Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

so ive been watching dvds for the past 3 weeks on the rgb1080i setting to my 1080i (input signal) of my jvc hd70fh96 1080p dila display. it was ok but i knew something wasnt right, it would be pixelly and then great , off and on. Now today i switched to that ycbcr setting by using the knob on the front of the player , and u have to push it in to make sure it stays in that setting. WOW what a difference, absolutely no pixelation. almost looks hd but the color vividness wasnt as good. im gonna recalibrate my tv using the avia in this mode and see it my settings will be different.
my other settings are

hdmi set to normal , not enhanced.
hdmi (lpcm)
soon to be denon link 3rd edition to the 4806ci ,

what are others using for their settings?

For those who want to download the German firmware but who lack a serial number for the DVD2930, you can find a number here. A little hard to find, but if you sift through the web page you can find it. Look at reply #26.

http://www.htforum.nl/yabbse/index.php?topic=54395.25

Use at your own risk I have not used it.

Maphiker

For those who want to download the German firmware but who lack a serial number for the DVD2930, you can find a number here. Look at the subject line of post #25.

http://www.htforum.nl/yabbse/index.php?action=profile;u=2704;sa=showPosts

Use at your own risk I have not used it.

Maphiker

most people here are english spoken and not dutch like us, i think they do not have any support of this treadpost above. :)

For those who want to download the German firmware but who lack a serial number for the DVD2930, you can find a number here. Look at the subject line of post #25.

http://www.htforum.nl/yabbse/index.php?action=profile;u=2704;sa=showPosts

Use at your own risk I have not used it.

Maphiker

I've been following this thread from the beginning but cannot recall mention of firmware upgrades for the 2930.

What does this upgrade accomplish?

I've been following this thread from the beginning but cannot recall mention of firmware upgrades for the 2930.

What does this upgrade accomplish?

sorry your right about that my mistake.

Niet goed gelezen joh dacht dat je de 3930 bedoelde.
foutje bedankt.

DVD-3930

Warning:
Read yourselves this guidance before use of the update CD please completely. The use of the provided CD happens on own danger.
DENON does not take over adhesion for damage, which results from the inappropriate use of the software.
Switch the equipment off under no circumstances during the update procedure and operate you no keys at the equipment or on the remote maintenance.

NOTE:
Examine that the update CD a file with the name DVD_3930 contains. In this file is the file D393SAVD.ROM!

If this should not be the case, the CD and or the update of the software is useless and cannot be used!

Upgrade procedure:
1. If not already happen, close please a screen to the video and/or. S-video-exit of the DVD-3930 on (see operating instructions, page 9). Switch the DVD-3930 and the screen on !
2. Guarantee that is no CD or DVD in the Player and the drawer of the DVD Players is closed. Initialize the equipment, by the keys PLAY ( ) and SKIP FORWARD ( ) press at the same time at the Player longer than 3 seconds (to INITIALIZE on the screen one indicates).
3. Open the drawer of the DVD Players! Insert the update CD 1 and to close you the drawer!
4. Please you are waiting, until the drawer opens automatically.
On the screen appears during this time first Updating: Reading from DISK, afterwards Writing ton of FLASH - Erase, Writing ton of FLASH - Write as well as Writing ton of FLASH - Verify. To completion of the update the display points COMPLETE, the drawer opens automatically.
5. Take the disk and switch you off the DVD-3930 at the small power switch (ON/COFF) completely.
6. Switch the DVD-3930. Initialize the equipment, by them the keys PLAY ( ) and SKIP FORWARD ( ) press at the same time at the Player longer than 3 seconds (to INITIALIZE on the screen one indicates).

Notes:
All attitudes of your DVD Players were put back during the update to factory settings. Please you lead the SETUP again out (see operating instructions, starting from page 13)!
Please you note that after the update Software did not certify non to be up-played may, since this entails function restrictions of the Players.

For all the people here without a valid serial for the europe denon download site,

here's the Denon DVD-3930 firmware:

http://rapidshare.com/files/25179025/Ver8284-3_DVD3930.zip

Use this at own risk!!!


Version: 8284-3
Date: 15-01-2007

Changelog: 8284-3

General improvements of the playing ability, improvement of the compatibility to not standard-conformal CDs.

other fixes:

* Firmware improvements of the SACD rendition,

* removal of disturbances with the similar audio expenditure
over the 5.1-Channel-Output,

* Removal of memory problems with the video Equalizers,

* removal of clay/tone disturbances during DVD audio playback

Unzip the file but keep the 3930_DVD folder as well as the ISO file in the 3930_DVDfolder. Burn folder with iso file to cd at 4x speed, You need to uncheck joliet option before burning the CD.


Have a nice day.

most people here are english spoken and not dutch like us, i think they do not have any support of this treadpost above. :)

Actually, the link I posted is for the 2930. Also, even though it is in Dutch, I think most english-speaking people, like myself, can figure out the necessary information.

As per your post, it appears that you now understand this.
Best regards. :)

man!! Kris Deering declared 2 weeks ago, that he submitted XA2 shoot out for print? :confused:

My 3930 finally arrived yesterday.
I've been questioning the wisdom of spending another $400 on top of my 2930 to trade up.
Heck, I could buy an Oppo or an "On Sale" Toshiba HD player for that extra money.

30 seconds into my first SACD (Rickie Lee Jones) and I knew I'd made the right decision :)

so ive been watching dvds for the past 3 weeks on the rgb1080i setting to my 1080i (input signal) of my jvc hd70fh96 1080p dila display. it was ok but i knew something wasnt right, it would be pixelly and then great , off and on. Now today i switched to that ycbcr setting by using the knob on the front of the player , and u have to push it in to make sure it stays in that setting. WOW what a difference, absolutely no pixelation. almost looks hd but the color vividness wasnt as good. im gonna recalibrate my tv using the avia in this mode and see it my settings will be different.
my other settings are

hdmi set to normal , not enhanced.
hdmi (lpcm)
soon to be denon link 3rd edition to the 4806ci ,

what are others using for their settings?


Thanks, for sharing your settings. I, like you, am interested in what others are using for their settings, also, especially anyone pairing the Denon with a Samsung HLS DLP.

no problem elove, i just wanna get the most out of this dvd player. denon should be more straight forward with their instructions. did you see a difference using the ycbcr setting?

My 3930 finally arrived yesterday.
I've been questioning the wisdom of spending another $400 on top of my 2930 to trade up.
Heck, I could buy an Oppo or an "On Sale" Toshiba HD player for that extra money.

30 seconds into my first SACD (Rickie Lee Jones) and I knew I'd made the right decision :)

I like reports like this. I had the choice of getting the 2930 last fall when it first came out or wait for the 3930. When the dealer called saying he had a 2930 in stock I grabbed it immediately. Life was good and for the first first few months afterward, I didn't sleep much watching and listening to all my favorite DVDs and SACDs. Since then I've been extremely pleased with the 2930 and think it is a superb product for both video and audio (for a short time I had the first Toshiba HD player but returned it because it was buggy and I didn't like the audio quality). The trouble is, now that I've had the 2930 for a while, I've gotten used to it and, like the man who married too early, wonder if I made the right choice. If I can find one, I think I'll audition the 3930 because of all the favorable reviews.

This is, indeed, strange. While I distinctly recall seeing the AL 24 blue light on during playback of SACD's in recent days, when I played an SACD again last night, that light did not go on. I also tried all the different inputs, i.e., Ext. In, two-channel analogue and Denon Link and the light never went on with SACD's. And now you're saying that it happened in the store. There's gotta' be some explanation, and it's not because I was in CD layer mode.

Playing around with the 3930 tonight and discovered that setting the Source Direct to 100kHz, instead of the 50kHz that I usually have it set to, made the AL24 light go out when playing stereo SACDs.

I can't figure out why the light was on in the first place, regardless of Source Direct settings. Is this something that perhaps a firmware upgrade addresses?

no problem elove, i just wanna get the most out of this dvd player. denon should be more straight forward with their instructions. did you see a difference using the ycbcr setting?


Hello everyone. First post in well over a year here.

I recently bought my Denon 3930CI and it has arrived in the mail today. I am a bit perplexed with the HDMI format choice of YCbCr or RGB. I did a Wiki search on each and tried a forum search, but it really hasnt answered my questions.

What is the difference "real world" between these two? Is one superior to the other, or is it simply a different means to the same end? The manual doesnt really explain much at all on the issue.

I am connecting to a new Sony Bravia 46" XBR3 HDTV. The main reason for purchasing the Denon 3930ci was for superb 1080p upconversion for my standard def DVDs.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!!

Assuming your display can handle either format over HDMI, your best approach is to try both and determine which you like best.

In theory, the YCbCr format is comprised of more bits than RGB, which is limited to 8-bit by definition. Thus, "in theory" it should be superior for displaying color gradients and avoiding banding.

But, the display is also a factor. For example, my Samsung HL-R set does not like YCbCr over HDMI at all. The colors are screwed up. I have also read that some displays actually convert YCbCr to RGB internally, so any advantage of YCbCr is lost.

So, again, your best bet is to try both and see which works best... FWIW

setting the Source Direct to 100kHz, instead of the 50kHz that I usually have it set to, made the AL24 light go out when playing stereo SACDs.interesting. Seems like the AL24 light is active all the time while playing SACD, DVD-A, or CD's. Is it (the Realta circuitry) actually functioning while playing these formats?

Also, the source direct setting's (50kHz and 100kHz) are also a little confusing- can't figure if they are actually directing these types of (potential) frequencies to the amplfier and speakers or not. I have mine set for 50kHz to be safe. If you read the main paragraph explanation on "50kHz, 100kHz:" (on page 23), it states: "With Super Audio CD's, if the disc's audio information is output as such and if an amplifier or speakers not compatible with the high frequencies is/are connected, the amplifier or speakers could be damaged. Set to 50kHz if the amplifier or speakers is/are not compatible with the high frequencies, 100kHz if they are."

I did find the following post, which said pretty much what you said. Guess I will have to give it a test myself, but I was looking for the technical aspects such as the bitrate you described.

Thanks for the reply!

*edit* wont let me link the URL until I have 5 posts. Ah well.

I was just curious what is the latest firmware for the U.S denon 3930 player?

I've followed the improvements of the latest firmware, but they don't seem to help my problem. My 3930CI's build date is Nov 2006. On many DVDs I have horrible blocking and banding. Especially on dark colors, but also on lighter colors. I have a Panny 1366x768 plasma, HDMI out at 720p. In general, the color and picture is outstanding. Certain scenes are almost unwatchable. Widescreen Review recently rated Stranger Than Fiction a 4.5 of 5 for video quality. For the most part it was very very good. However during many scenes, for example, the opening scene where the lead character is getting out of bed. His room is very dark, and the blocking was awful. My friend brought his Denon 2910 over, and during specific scenes of The Polar Express, exhibited the same behavior. So I thought, well, it's either the DVD, or the way my plasma takes images over HDMI. The problem does look a little better over component, but my overall PQ takes a drop via component, so I want to stick with HDMI.

Would this behavior be caused by a Nov 2006 build date, and not having the current firmware?

Oh yes, both my plasma and 3930CI were ISF calibrated. The tech was very very pleased with the results in the various shades of black in certain scenes of his test DVD.

If the 3930 was calibrated on your HDMI input during the ISF calibration then you should be seeing what you should see (within limits of the plasma). I haven't seen the discs you mention and I don't trust any reviews. I can't think of any new SD DVDs I've watched recently that were top notch PQ-wise to suggest you try. Actually, IIRC, the PQ on Borat was very good. Although, unless the DVD has issues, you shouldn't be seeing what you describe. It's possible that there is a setting/setup done incorrectly if the tech was not totally familiar with the plasma and player. On the plasma you should have anything that is "automatic" turned off. And on the 3930 you should be using YCbCr 4:2:2 10bit video (I think the Panny can take 10bit video, if not YCbCr 8bit will have to do) and "normal" blacks - never use "enhanced black" anything on Denon - it's PC video levels.

larry

If the 3930 was calibrated on your HDMI input during the ISF calibration then you should be seeing what you should see (within limits of the plasma). I haven't seen the discs you mention and I don't trust any reviews. I can't think of any new SD DVDs I've watched recently that were top notch PQ-wise to suggest you try. Actually, IIRC, the PQ on Borat was very good. Although, unless the DVD has issues, you shouldn't be seeing what you describe. It's possible that there is a setting/setup done incorrectly if the tech was not totally familiar with the plasma and player. On the plasma you should have anything that is "automatic" turned off. And on the 3930 you should be using YCbCr 4:2:2 10bit video (I think the Panny can take 10bit video, if not YCbCr 8bit will have to do) and "normal" blacks - never use "enhanced black" anything on Denon - it's PC video levels.

larryHi Larry. I'll look through the settings on my Panny (TH-PHD8UK) and see if I can identify any options that allow for 'automatic' anything. 3930CI is set to 'normal' blacks, I'm positive. I do have my 3930CI set to YCbCr, but don't recall being able to choose 10bit or 8bit. Say my plasma cannot accept 10bit - does it automatically accept 8bit, or does it try to accept 10bit with issues? I don't know the results of sending a 10bit image to a display that cannot accept it.

I've followed the improvements of the latest firmware, but they don't seem to help my problem. My 3930CI's build date is Nov 2006. On many DVDs I have horrible blocking and banding. Especially on dark colors, but also on lighter colors. I have a Panny 1366x768 plasma, HDMI out at 720p. In general, the color and picture is outstanding. Certain scenes are almost unwatchable. Widescreen Review recently rated Stranger Than Fiction a 4.5 of 5 for video quality. For the most part it was very very good. However during many scenes, for example, the opening scene where the lead character is getting out of bed. His room is very dark, and the blocking was awful. My friend brought his Denon 2910 over, and during specific scenes of The Polar Express, exhibited the same behavior. So I thought, well, it's either the DVD, or the way my plasma takes images over HDMI. The problem does look a little better over component, but my overall PQ takes a drop via component, so I want to stick with HDMI.

Would this behavior be caused by a Nov 2006 build date, and not having the current firmware?

Oh yes, both my plasma and 3930CI were ISF calibrated. The tech was very very pleased with the results in the various shades of black in certain scenes of his test DVD.

I have a 9 series 50" plasma and a Mitsubishi PJ. I also had a Denon 3910 which looked very good on the PJ. On the Panny however I had the worst macroblocking at times. It was dark scenes or medium scenes with large spans of a single color (like a colored wall). It could not be calibrated out. It was most evident via HDMI and much less so via component. For a remedy I bought a Oppo 970 exclusively for the Panny. Its attached via HDMI. No more macroblocking. Looks excellent on a 50" but not up to the Denon PQ on the PJ (92" screen).

The 3910 is now sold and I have a 2930 on order.. should arrive Wednesday. The new Denon will be exclusive to the PJ but I can do some tests to see if I can recreate your problem if you give me some examples of DVDs and timecodes.

I'm surprised you have the problem. It sounds like macroblocking but it shouldn't be since you don't have the Faroudja chip in the Denon or your Panny.

I have a 9 series 50" plasma and a Mitsubishi PJ. I also had a Denon 3910 which looked very good on the PJ. On the Panny however I had the worst macroblocking at times. It was dark scenes or medium scenes with large spans of a single color (like a colored wall). It could not be calibrated out. It was most evident via HDMI and much less so via component. For a remedy I bought a Oppo 970 exclusively for the Panny. Its attached via HDMI. No more macroblocking. Looks excellent on a 50" but not up to the Denon PQ on the PJ (92" screen).

The 3910 is now sold and I have a 2930 on order.. should arrive Wednesday. The new Denon will be exclusive to the PJ but I can do some tests to see if I can recreate your problem if you give me some examples of DVDs and timecodes.

I'm surprised you have the problem. It sounds like macroblocking but it shouldn't be since you don't have the Faroudja chip in the Denon or your Panny.Yes, what you describe, Kevin, is exactly what I am experiencing. The tech was very pleased with his results, which indicate my issue cannot be resolved via calibration. One DVD timecode I have in memory is The Polar Express at exactly the 2 min 0 sec mark. For approx 60 seconds, you can see many examples on the walls.

Watched Stranger Than Fiction last night, and saw the worst examples ever. Do you have either of these?

This is disappointing, as, like me, your problem was with the 3930CI via HDMI, connected to a plasma, even the same manufacturer, and a similar model. Can it be said my plasma is defective? Or do some players just not get along with some displays, specifically digital, specifically plasma? What you describe is exactly what I am seeing, and it's driving me just nuts. I'm not able to just relax and enjoy a nice movie because of the continual macroblocking. Denon support said the 3930CI does not have macroblocking, but then again, the guy I spoke to thought macroblocking had to do with the macro's from my remote control being blocked (not joking). He then deferred my question to another tech, who said no way. Not sure if I mentioned it, but my friend brought his Denon 2910 over, and it had the same results, actually a bit worse.

What made you buy another player for your Panny? What did you learn of the situation? I mean, do you consider your player 'broken'? Is this simply something owners of the 3930CI and a Panny plasma have to live with, which to me does not seem acceptable...

I bought my player at Crutchfield, I guess I could see if they'll do a trade-in (been about 3 months). If the 3930CI is working as expected, and it just doesn't get along with my plasma, and I know this, I would have to replace my 3930CI, as I can't continue watching movies with such awful macroblocking. I'm going to take my player to a neighbor's house later today. I think he has a 56" DLP, and I'll see what happens.

Ok, last night I got home and set up my 3930ci. Bad news... I think its broken! =(

The unit will power on, play DVDs and I can hear audio, but I cannot get ANY video output out of the unit. I have tried HDMI in both AUTO RGB and AUTO YCbCr. I have tried S video out, composite video out, and component video out. I get NOTHING out of any. This is going into my Sony Bravia 46" XBR3 LCD.

I have since moved the unit to an easier to access standard 19" CRT television to try and further troubleshoot. I am trying to use the composite video output and still get nothing on screen. Since this is a cheapie CRT television, its obviously a 480i. The 3930 has had the "progressive" light lit since I first fired it up. Is there a way to deselect it?

Keep in mind I have never seen ANY video out on the unit, so I havent been able to get into the on-screen menus.

Does anyone have further suggestions to get this thing working, or am I going to have to send this thing back? I am overseas military, so I dont have any local tech support here.

Your help would be greatly appreciated!

Yes, what you describe, Kevin, is exactly what I am experiencing. The tech was very pleased with his results, which indicate my issue cannot be resolved via calibration. One DVD timecode I have in memory is The Polar Express at exactly the 2 min 0 sec mark. For approx 60 seconds, you can see many examples on the walls.

Watched Stranger Than Fiction last night, and saw the worst examples ever. Do you have either of these?

This is disappointing, as, like me, your problem was with the 3930CI via HDMI, connected to a plasma, even the same manufacturer, and a similar model. Can it be said my plasma is defective? Or do some players just not get along with some displays, specifically digital, specifically plasma? What you describe is exactly what I am seeing, and it's driving me just nuts. I'm not able to just relax and enjoy a nice movie because of the continual macroblocking. Denon support said the 3930CI does not have macroblocking, but then again, the guy I spoke to thought macroblocking had to do with the macro's from my remote control being blocked (not joking). He then deferred my question to another tech, who said no way. Not sure if I mentioned it, but my friend brought his Denon 2910 over, and it had the same results, actually a bit worse.

What made you buy another player for your Panny? What did you learn of the situation? I mean, do you consider your player 'broken'? Is this simply something owners of the 3930CI and a Panny plasma have to live with, which to me does not seem acceptable...

I bought my player at Crutchfield, I guess I could see if they'll do a trade-in (been about 3 months). If the 3930CI is working as expected, and it just doesn't get along with my plasma, and I know this, I would have to replace my 3930CI, as I can't continue watching movies with such awful macroblocking. I'm going to take my player to a neighbor's house later today. I think he has a 56" DLP, and I'll see what happens.

Ronnie, I replied to your PM. There are too many variables to arrive at a simple conclusion... we'll discuss.

Ronnie, I replied to your PM. There are too many variables to arrive at a simple conclusion... we'll discuss.Hmm, for some reason I have no PM's.

I played 2 DVDs with significant macroblocking (on my system) on a neighbor's system. He has a Denon DVD2900 and a 65" LCD Toshiba. Same macroblocking as on my system (though his PQ was far far lower). :) So this indicates the problem lies within the DVDs.

For further troubleshooting, I've ordered the Oppo 970HD from Amazon. $149.99 out the door (incl shipping).

One thing that can't help is that if you feed your plasma anything over 480p from 3930 (720p or 1080i) it has to do additional processing to scale to the 1366x768 native resolution of the panel. Also, on some Panny plasmas the noise reduction "feature" is not defeatable and is the reason why they can be a bad match for the Faroudja macroblocking enchancing chips (which is not your case). So it's possible there may be some issues with the DVDs and for some reason the Panny aggravates it. I doubt you'll see any difference to the better with the 970HD. Also, your friends 2900 is an excellent 480p player, too bad he has to connect it to the Tosh whose scaler is problaby not the greatest. Who calibrated your friends system, too. That's always a factor.

larry

One thing that can't help is that if you feed your plasma anything over 480p from 3930 (720p or 1080i) it has to do additional processing to scale to the 1366x768 native resolution of the panel. Also, on some Panny plasmas the noise reduction "feature" is not defeatable and is the reason why they can be a bad match for the Faroudja macroblocking enchancing chips (which is not your case). So it's possible there may be some issues with the DVDs and for some reason the Panny aggravates it. I doubt you'll see any difference to the better with the 970HD. Also, your friends 2900 is an excellent 480p player, too bad he has to connect it to the Tosh whose scaler is problaby not the greatest. Who calibrated your friends system, too. That's always a factor.

larryYeah, there is a type of noise filter in my Panny (just looked at the settings tonight), and indeed it was off. Re: the res my 3930 is outputting, I believe it needs to scale if it receives anything other than 768? Yes, I'm believing there is something about my plasma that is aggravating the issue. I hope the macroblocking is no better w/ the Oppo!! :) If it is, it points to a problem w/ my 3930. I'm hoping the macroblocking will be the same, adding more support that the problem is in the DVD. Also, I just purchased a Sony PlayStation3, which is a quite good BD player. I'm curious to see how much macroblocking I see w/ it.

Yes, the image on my neighbor's Tosh was really really bad. But, honestly, I didn't really care for the image too much when it was new, 3-4 years ago. The Tosh was calibrated by a pro installer, so I'm certain it was calibrated correctly. Though I don't believe it's had a tune-up for some time.

Hmm, for some reason I have no PM's.
My mistake. Reply sent.

I was just curious what is the latest firmware for the U.S denon 3930 player?

I'm curious too.

Been searching this thread for an indication on what the firmware does to "improve" the player and how it's done.
That's what happens when a thread gets too long...you can't find anything.

I did see reference to an update improving SACD playback. My week old 3930 sounds pretty bright and fatiguing. I'm hoping it smooths out as it breaks in.
Or maybe this update will help.

BE8284
Make Day 711
DSP8250
IP060711

I hate to ask when the answer may be hiding somewhere on this thread......

These are the detailed internal notes from Denon on version 8284-2 released 9 January 2007:

(1) Sound interrupts between tracks when specified "DVD-AUDIO-DISC".

(2) When unit power turn OFF and ON during "setting of HDMI" is set to other than "HDMI OFF", setting of "DNR" is initialized to "0".
(Even OSD shows "+3" etc. DNR is set to "0" of fact.)

(3) If the user changes for M1 ・M5 in the picture adjust menu the NOISE REDUCTION (+1 ・+3) setting - the player "forgets" this setting when it is switched off. That is - when switching it on again the menu still shows that M1 ・M5 is active and NOISE REDUCTION setting is displayed to be on the adjusted level (+1 ・+3) - but it is NOT (actual noise reduction setting is 0)

(4) If the player connected to specified HDMI-equipment (EDID is more than 3 block) during "setting of HDMI" is set to other than "HDMI OFF", audio signal may be not output even video signal is output.

(5) When resolution change from 480i to 480p or change from VGA to XGA under following condition, HDMI connect between DVD-3930(CI) to AV amplifier become "Unlock".

[Condition]
*HDMI setting is set to "MULTI (NORMAL)" or "MULTI (LPCM) ".
*The DVD player connects with AV amplifier.
*The DVD player plays "96kHz 5.1ch" of DVD-AUDIO.

(6) When "96kHz 5.1ch of DVD-AUDIO" is played after played "96/24(5.1ch) DTS signal of DVD-AUDIO" under following condition, HDMI connect between DVD-3930(CI) to AVR-5805 become "Unlock".

[Condition]
*HDMI setting is set to "MULTI (NORMAL) ".
*The player connects with AVR-5805.

(7) Analog audio of 5.1ch is not down-mixed and only audio signal of FL/FR is outputted under following condition.

[Condition]
*HDMI setting is set to "MULTI (NORMAL)" or "MULTI (LPCM) ".
*The player connects with HDMI monitor which has 2ch audio output.

(Cool. When the player playing SACD which has more than 100 minutes of total recorded time, "A0" is indicated to "time" on OSD.

(9) When load "Hybrid disc" of SACD, player may be recognize it to "CD".

(10) If push "play button" of the player under following condition, the unit can not accept any button.

[Condition]
*The player into "Resume Stop" by pushing "STOP button" immediately after displayed "indicator of DVD-AUDIO" after load "DVD-AUDIO disc".

(11) Indicate wrong playing time under following condition.

[Condition]
*Load "MP3 and WMA mixed disc" to the player, -> pause the unit during play "MP3 track", -> search "WMA track", -> re-search to the same "MP3 track", -> then play the MP3 track.

(12) If push "▲" button of cursor button on RC-unit once after pushed "▼" button several times (more than 10 times or 20 times) then push "ENTER button" in "Setting the slide switching time" in "SET UP", the player freeze.

Version 8284-3 adds some fixes for the correct playback of copy protected CD's

So does anyone know anyone at Denon USA that might be able to tell us why they haven't made this fix available for US players yet? (I miss DenonJeff…)

So does anyone know anyone at Denon USA that might be able to tell us why they haven't made this fix available for US players yet? (I miss DenonJeff…)I can add that I just called Denon support yesterday, and was told that there are no firmware updates for the 3930CI, and that all firmware updates are announced on their website. He said he had no knowledge of a European version update (re: earlier posts in this thread). But then again, the guy I spoke to sounded like Chong (of Cheech and Chong). A couple weeks ago I called Denon asking if there were any known macroblocking issues with my 3930CI, and the guy began an answer that totally lost me. When I asked him what macroblocking meant to him, he answered that the IR macro signals from my remote were being blocked (!!!!). I must say that I do not trust Denon tech support.

I wanted to know what type of noise reduction does the 2930 have. Online at the Denon site it lists; Mosquito, 3D, Block, Noise Reduction Adjustments, but in the online manual it lists; DNR and MPEG NR only. Is the online manual incomplete? Thanks

I wanted to know what type of noise reduction does the 2930 have. Online at the Denon site it lists; Mosquito, 3D, Block, Noise Reduction Adjustments, but in the online manual it lists; DNR and MPEG NR only. Is the online manual incomplete? Thanks

DNR and MPEG NR only, but I find that the MPEG NR is to0 intrusive if turned on. I have yet to need it though...same for the DNR...I keep both off. the limited list of movies I went through last night looked great.

hmmmm

Since the thread is so big I can't remember where my original post was so bear with me.

Purchased my 3930CI on Boxing Day 2006. In Jan 2007 I contacted Denon Canada to see if there was an update for the 3930CI. After givng them the name of my dealer and my serial number, I got an e-mail back saying that there was such an update and that the update "fixes some disc compatibility issues that have been reported."

Within 4 days, Denon Canada shipped out a CD for me with instructions. Update was done with no problems. My 3930CI looked great and I had no problems before the update.

If Denon USA is giving you guys the runaround...tell them that Denon Canada had an update in Jan 2007 for the 3930CI.

Good luck guys. :cool:

Love my 3930CI.

:)

They're not giving us the runaround per se, but Denon USA's policy is if the firmware update isn't on the web site, it doesn't exist (for the US market), and there are no updates for the 3930CI posted.

Edited to clarify what Denon meant by "exist"

They're not giving us the runaround per se, but Denon USA's policy is if the firmware update isn't on the web site, it doesn't exist, and there are no updates for the 3930CI posted.LOL... Please raise your hand if you have spoken with and told a Denon US "service" rep about the updates (both DVD-3930ci and AVR-4306) on the German web site. ... I see at least one hand up - Mine. Most assuredly they are giving US customers the runaround (or they are just plain lazy). :rolleyes: And, btw, taking the "Denon USA policy" to a logical conclusion, if someone with Denon USA did locate the upgrade on the German site and determined that it was beneficial to all users, but, for whatever reason, still did not post it, then "it doesn't exist." :eek:

Since the thread is so big I can't remember where my original post was so bear with me.

Purchased my 3930CI on Boxing Day 2006. In Jan 2007 I contacted Denon Canada to see if there was an update for the 3930CI. After givng them the name of my dealer and my serial number, I got an e-mail back saying that there was such an update and that the update "fixes some disc compatibility issues that have been reported."

Within 4 days, Denon Canada shipped out a CD for me with instructions. Update was done with no problems. My 3930CI looked great and I had no problems before the update.

If Denon USA is giving you guys the runaround...tell them that Denon Canada had an update in Jan 2007 for the 3930CI.

Good luck guys. :cool:



Love my 3930CI.

:)

I have not noticed any specific problems with my 3930, but I did enquire about an update and got a similar e-mail from Denon Canada asking for dealer and serial number information.
Their only request was that I not make that update available on-line. No problem.

fuzzy...did they tell you exactly what the update was supposed to accomplish beyond disc compatibility issues?

Just got off the phone with Denon USA.

They confirmed there is a firmware upgrade for the 3930CI, that it will be posted to the US web site when they've completed testing it, and service is hoping that will be sometime in the "next few weeks."

Since my 3930CI is working just fine, I'm not in a hurry, but it is coming for US customers.

Just got off the phone with Denon USA.

They confirmed there is a firmware upgrade for the 3930CI, that it will be posted to the US web site when they've completed testing it, and service is hoping that will be sometime in the "next few weeks."

Since my 3930CI is working just fine, I'm not in a hurry, but it is coming for US customers.That's great to hear. Thanks for spending the time to find this. And I just spoke to someone, yesterday? Or Tue, and was told there were no planned updates at this time. Something like a planned firmware update you'd think (expect) all customer-facing first-level support to know...

I have not noticed any specific problems with my 3930, but I did enquire about an update and got a similar e-mail from Denon Canada asking for dealer and serial number information.
Their only request was that I not make that update available on-line. No problem.

fuzzy...did they tell you exactly what the update was supposed to accomplish beyond disc compatibility issues?

They didn't tell me anything other than 'disc compatability issues'.

Glad to hear Denon USA is getting the update out soon. I'm so impressed with my 3930CI. The image it produces via component (with my Audioquest YIQ-5) is simply stunning.

Does anybody know if I use a good HDMI cable set to output 480p, would it be better than component at 480p?

:)

They didn't tell me anything other than 'disc compatability issues'.

Glad to hear Denon USA is getting the update out soon. I'm so impressed with my 3930CI. The image it produces via component (with my Audioquest YIQ-5) is simply stunning.

Does anybody know if I use a good HDMI cable set to output 480p, would it be better than component at 480p?

:)

So, you figure it's better to run the unit at 480p rather than outputting your set's native resolution via HDMI?

I will try that too and see what happens.

Since my 3930CI is working just fine, I'm not in a hurry, but it is coming for US customers.

Don't hold your breath! :)

yeah, I was told by Denon Customer Service to "stay-tuned" as well. I'm sure 3930CI firmware update is coming soon.............

the will post exactly the same firmware as the one on the german site.

no differents.

the will post exactly the same firmware as the one on the german site.hard to say, if that's true they most likely would have posted it already.

I wanted to know what type of noise reduction does the 2930 and the 3930 have. Online at the Denon site under features it lists; Mosquito, 3D, Block, Noise Reduction Adjustments, for both models but in the online manuals for both it lists; DNR and MPEG NR only. Are the online manuals incomplete? What am I missing here. Thanks

Been testing the 3930 for 3 weeks now (on my JVC RS-1 at 106") vs. my Sony BDP-S1 Blu-ray player and Toshiba XA-2 HD-DVD player. No doubt about it. The 3930's standard DVD playback picture quality is superior to both. As well as disc handling, shuttle and slow speed quality, layer change, menus, remote, picture adjustability, sound quality, etc. There's nothing either HD machine does better - that is until you load a HD or Blu-ray disc. Then the 3930 takes a definite back seat. But solely for playback of my SD DVD library - I'll be keeping it. :)

John does your 3930 have, Mosquito, 3D, Block, Noise Reduction adjustments as well as the Edge Enhancement feature that everyone seems to think works well in the HD XA2?

I finally finish to read the complete thread. Still I have video and audio questions about the 2930CI. I will start with Video. My TV is a Sharp Aquos LC52D62U.

Questions:

1. My TV has two options in HDMI settings to receive YCbCr (4:4:4 or 4:2:2). I really don't understand the difference nor what to select. Do you know what is the output of Denon 2930CI? 4:4:4 or 4:2:2? It was asked before but it was not answered.

2. Should I use IRE 7.5 or IRE 0?

3. Am I right to think that for LCD display I should use video levels (16-235) vs PC levels (0-255) that should be used for projectors? or How do you know what levels should be used?

Thanks in advance

In my setup i found the 480p over hdmi was much better than 1080p.I own a 42px60u panasonic plasma 1024 by 768 resolution.I think because its a 720p tv upconverting to 1080p which it can accept,makes thing look a little smoother.Any ideas?Does anyone agree with this theory?

Been testing the 3930 for 3 weeks now (on my JVC RS-1 at 106") vs. my Sony BDP-S1 Blu-ray player and Toshiba XA-2 HD-DVD player. No doubt about it. The 3930's standard DVD playback picture quality is superior to both. As well as disc handling, shuttle and slow speed quality, layer change, menus, remote, picture adjustability, sound quality, etc. There's nothing either HD machine does better - that is until you load a HD or Blu-ray disc. Then the 3930 takes a definite back seat. But solely for playback of my SD DVD library - I'll be keeping it.interesting. Do you listen to SACD music? I'd be curious to hear comparisons between Sony BDP-S1 and 3930CI SACD playback.

interesting. Do you listen to SACD music? I'd be curious to hear comparisons between Sony BDP-S1 and 3930CI SACD playback.

The Sony BDP-S1 doesn't play CD's - or SACD's.

John does your 3930 have, Mosquito, 3D, Block, Noise Reduction adjustments as well as the Edge Enhancement feature that everyone seems to think works well in the HD XA2?

Here's what's offered:
Contrast
Brightness
Sharpness (medium range)
Sharpness (high range)
Hue
White Level
Black level
Chroma level
Enhancer
Digital Noise Reduction
MPEG noise reduction
Set up level (0 or 7.5 IRE)
H position
V position
G0 - G9 Gamma correction

Can anyone who owns a 2930ci confirm if there is any pixel cropping at 1080p resolution?

I can confirm it does not. I have a Sharp Aquos LCD and I feed 1080p from 2930CI. Then I checked with GetGray DVD and every pixel is perfectly tranferred.

My only question is whether I should choose YCbCr 4:4:4 or 4:2:2 as HDMI input in my LCD. I don't underestand the difference and what exactly is 2930CI output. I posted this question and others above.

SD and HD movies are encoded as YCbCr 4:2:0. For every 4 Y (luma) samples there are 2 Cb (blue "difference") samples and 1 Cr (red "difference") sample. 4 pixels can be described in 7 values - 8bit values on the discs - it's a form of compression. The decoder upsamples red to 4:2:2. Going to 4:4:4 requires more upsampling of blue and red and produces the 3 values for each pixel. Before being converted to RGB, if necessary, YCbCr has to be 4:4:4 because RGB is 4:4:4 - each pixel has to fully "described". Using 4:2:2 requires less bandwidth over HDMI when using 8bit video which is a good thing. 4:2:2 can also be sent as 10bit or 12bit video via HDMI, 4:4:4 is 8bit only, same for RGB.

larry

Thanks Larry for the detailed explanation.

Can we assume that 2930/3930 CI output 4:2:2 10 bit?

Am I right to think that LCD display (like my Aquos) should use video levels (16-235) instead of PC levels (0-255)?

What about IRE? 7.5 or 0?

Thanks in advance.

The Reon should be capable of 10bit output, the Realta does it. Any HDTV nowadays should accept video levels - movies are made using video (studio) levels.

With digital video IRE has no meaning. Setting the IRE value for black makes no sense. Black is 16 (8bit video) no matter how you slice or dice it. :) I'd leave it at zero. Chris Wiggles sticky at the top of the forum gives good description of IRE.

larry

What about IRE? 7.5 or 0?

Thanks in advance.


General guidlines (some TVs may be doing something nonstandard)
for 480i over component : IRE 7.5

for all others : IRE 0

The essentials about IRE can be found in Chris Wiggles' Background Guide to Setting Source Options (http://archive2.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6330772&&#post6330772). The first section after the introduction is the good stuff.

Basically, the three facts about IRE from Chris' paper that I keep in mind are:
1. IRE only comes into play when dealing with analog sources. If you are using digital outputs (HDMI, Component YCbCr, etc), the value of the IRE setting does not matter.
2. The IRE control in the DVD player is used to match what is "expected" by the display. If the display expects the 56.3 mV (7.5 IRE) "setup pedestal" then the DVD player should be set for 7.5 IRE. If the display does not expect the 7.5 IRE setup pedestal then the DVD player should be set for 0 IRE. Generally, using a pluge or BTB pattern from one of the DVD calibration disks, you can visually tell if the wrong setting is used. If IRE is set to 7.5 when the display expects 0 IRE, blacks will be very grey or washed out. If IRE is set to 0 and the display expects 7.5 then blacks will be very crushed. In most cases you can use the display controls (brightness, black level - either User menu or service menu) to correct for the mismatched settings.
3. Thus, in most cases (reread last part of 2 above), if you use one of the calibration DVDs to calibrated the entire video chain (i.e., DVD player and display together), it really does not matter which setting is used.

Don and Larry, thanks for pointing me to Chris' guide. All is clearer now. After reading the guide, I think Don is dead on summarizing the ideas. :)

Now, let me turn to my questions regarding Audio. I keen read all opinions about Advanced AL24 vs normal AL24 and whether redbook CDs should be listen using analog L+R outputs vs Front L+R of 5.1 outputs.

Before going into questions and details, I think it is very important that respondents note if they are using full large speakers as front channels or if they are using small fronts + Sw.

Then, the question: is it already accepted that Advanced AL24 only takes place at analog L+R outputs?

I spoke with a guy that sell modded (audio part) 3930CI and he said that the analog circuitry of both analog L+R and front L+R (5.1) outputs are the same so the mod benefit all sources (Digital, SACD, DVD-A and redbook CDs). He said they have the schematics. They don't know if something can be different in the digital domain though.

So, there is the possibility that a digital chip (DSP) can engage the advance AL24 processing only when analog L+R outputs are used and selected in the audio menu. If this is the case, then only people using full range (large) speakers as front channels will experience the full benefit. People having small speakers still should crossover using the receiver but it will also involves and extra DSP ADC/DAC conversion compromising the sound again, unless, you own an Anthem D2 processor or using Outlaw ICBM. Last but not least, you have to have high end equipment to probably listen the difference between Advanced AL24 vs Normal AL24. Are you listening the difference?

All of the above seems a complicated implementation of advanced AL24 where only few people could take advantage of that. Do we believe Denon did this? or maybe Advance AL24 is present in both L+R (analog) and FL+FR (5.1) outputs and people hearing a difference could be due to an extra processing using processors/receivers/Large or small speakers/ Sw on or off?

Just realized my new 3930 has resume play - even after turning the units power off. I could swear my first 3930 player didn't offer this feature. Unless Denon has just implemented it. My new machine has March 2007 build date.

Scenario:
I watched half a movie - left the disc in the player - and turned the power off. Upon returning the next day - I hit play - and the movie started right up at the exact point in the film that I was at. I was expecting to have to try and locate that position - so I could finish watching the film. This was one of the features I was disappointed to give up when I switched over from my Sony ES9000 to the 3930. Anybody else notice this?

Before going into questions and details, I think it is very important that respondents note if they are using full large speakers as front channels or if they are using small fronts + Sw.

Then, the question: is it already accepted that Advanced AL24 only takes place at analog L+R outputs?
...
So, there is the possibility that a digital chip (DSP) can engage the advance AL24 processing only when analog L+R outputs are used and selected in the audio menu. If this is the case, then only people using full range (large) speakers as front channels will experience the full benefit. People having small speakers still should crossover using the receiver but it will also involves and extra DSP ADC/DAC conversion compromising the sound again, unless, you own an Anthem D2 processor or using Outlaw ICBM. Last but not least, you have to have high end equipment to probably listen the difference between Advanced AL24 vs Normal AL24. Are you listening the difference?

All of the above seems a complicated implementation of advanced AL24 where only few people could take advantage of that. Do we believe Denon did this? or maybe Advance AL24 is present in both L+R (analog) and FL+FR (5.1) outputs and people hearing a difference could be due to an extra processing using processors/receivers/Large or small speakers/ Sw on or off?

The 3930Ci has a setting called "Bass Enhancer", which adds subwoofer output when listening to 2-channel audio for people who don't have full range speakers. This gets around the issue for those who don't have analog bass management. For the record, I have full range speakers, don't use "bass enhancer", and my receiver does not digitize the signal for subwoofer output, so I use that (Denon AVR-3300).

The manual indicates that Advanced AL24 "is provided for 2-channel output". I read that to mean that it applies to the 2-channel output only, although someone could challenge me on that.

My understanding of the differences between the 2-channel and 5.1 channel outputs is that there is a DAC in mono-mode for each of the 2-channel outputs, plus three more DACs in stereo mode for the 5.1 channel outputs. The components after the DACs are obviously independent, although I do not know if they are different. Again, someone may know better than I do, but this is my understanding.

Just realized my new 3930 has resume play - even after turning the units power off. I could swear my first 3930 player didn't offer this feature. Unless Denon has just implemented it. My new machine has March 2007 build date. The movie started right up at the exact point in the film that I was at. I was expecting to have to try and locate that position - so I could finish watching the film. Anybody else notice this?yeah, the DVD-3930CI "resume play" function works when you leave the disc loaded after playing it, and you only press the "stop" command once (more than once will reset it back to beginning of disc), then power unit OFF. Upon powering unit back ON the disc will begin play from it's original position (DVD's and CD's). However once you remove the disc it's history.

This is different from the "disc memory" function Sony players have (which is absolutely wonderful). You can remove the disc from the player, then return later (after playing other disc's), re-load the same disc, and it resumes play from where you last left off (set in unit memory).

Moreover, my (DVD-3930CI) unit was shipped prior to yours (I believe Nov-2006).

The 3930Ci has a setting called "Bass Enhancer", which adds subwoofer output when listening to 2-channel audio for people who don't have full range speakers. This gets around the issue for those who don't have analog bass management.


Interesting. So if you enable Bass Enhancer, then the SW RCA of 5.1 outputs is enable? Is it also working the 3930CI bass management so you can crossover at 60 Hz?

Uhmm, but then what you want is to carry those three signals (L+R+Sw) directly to the amplifier and speakers. How do you do this assuming you are using the 5.1 outputs of 3930CI directly to the Ext. 5.1 inputs of your receiver?

Many people is connecting DVD-in or CD-in inputs them receivers to carry the analog L+R outputs of the 3930CI, but how do you carry the SW?

One possibility is to connect the SW directly from the player (3930CI) so either using the 5.1 outputs (SACD, DVD-A) or Analog with Bass Enhancer the SW is feed but the receiver could change between using 6CH/8CH direct source (without ADC/DAC conversion) or DVD/CD In. Still and extra cable from the receiver to the SW will be needed for Digital sources (DD, DTS, etc). I don't know if this is possible because I believe players output digital out and 5.1 out at the same time, uhmmm :o

Basically, the three facts about IRE from Chris' paper that I keep in mind are:
1. IRE only comes into play when dealing with analog sources. If you are using digital outputs (HDMI, Component YCbCr, etc), the value of the IRE setting does not matter.


FYI: For some reason on the 3930, the IRE control is adjusting the value of black for digitial outputs as well. (although I don't think I've rechecked with the new firmware).

Interesting. So if you enable Bass Enhancer, then the SW RCA of 5.1 outputs is enable? Is it also working the 3930CI bass management so you can crossover at 60 Hz?
Correct. I believe the crossover point is adjustable, and 60Hz is one of the options.


Uhmm, but then what you want is to carry those three signals (L+R+Sw) directly to the amplifier and speakers. How do you do this assuming you are using the 5.1 outputs of 3930CI directly to the Ext. 5.1 inputs of your receiver?

Many people is connecting DVD-in or CD-in inputs them receivers to carry the analog L+R outputs of the 3930CI, but how do you carry the SW?

Dunno. I don't use this feature. I have the 5.1 outputs to the 5.1 inplus, plus the 2-channel out as the CD input.


One possibility is to connect the SW directly from the player (3930CI) so either using the 5.1 outputs (SACD, DVD-A) or Analog with Bass Enhancer the SW is feed but the receiver could change between using 6CH/8CH direct source (without ADC/DAC conversion) or DVD/CD In. Still and extra cable from the receiver to the SW will be needed for Digital sources (DD, DTS, etc). I don't know if this is possible because I believe players output digital out and 5.1 out at the same time, uhmmm :o
Perhaps some form of RCA splitter would work, attached as a joiner, to allow the subwoofer to accept two inputs. I don't know if there would be interference - I haven't tried it myself. Cheap to try it though.

Dunno. I don't use this feature. I have the 5.1 outputs to the 5.1 inplus, plus the 2-channel out as the CD input.

That is why I said that, at the end, 2Ch output is more aimed to people having full range speakers. It would be nicer if Advance AL24 could be present on both 2CH and FL+FR (5.1) outputs.


Perhaps some form of RCA splitter would work, attached as a joiner, to allow the subwoofer to accept two inputs. I don't know if there would be interference - I haven't tried it myself. Cheap to try it though.

The cleaner solution is if receivers could enable SW amplifier plus FL and FR when you select CD-in.

At the end, this discussion is focused on how to take advantage of Advance AL24 processing for people having small speakers + SW assuming Advance AL24 processing is not present in FL+FR (5.1) outputs.

FYI: For some reason on the 3930, the IRE control is adjusting the value of black for digitial outputs as well. (although I don't think I've rechecked with the new firmware).If the IRE control does adjust the value of black for digital outputs then it is not a "true" IRE control. All the IRE control should do is set the analog signal for black at 56.3 mV if the control is set to "7.5 IRE' and to 0 mV, if set to "0 IRE." For a digital signal, black is just a series of on/off pulses that equal digital 16 or 0 depending on whether video or pc levels are used.

Could be a firmware bug or the control is meant for another non-standard purpose.

This isn't the only player where a 0/7.5 IRE option does do something with digital ouput. They might make it do someting in the digital domain just for people who don't know what it does won't complain if it does nothing. :)

larry

I just got my Denon 3930CI and it was working fine for one week. Last night, the image froze in the middle of a movie but sound continued. I turned off the player and powered back on. It seemed fine afterthat. tonight, i put a movie in, it went to the movie main menu. I selected the sound option (DTS) and selected play movie and pressed play. The movie started but i still got the movie menu screen. i powered the player off again, now i get either absolutely no picture or a big red square in the middle of the screen. I am using the hdmi output and tried 480P/720P & 1080i which my Marantz accepts but still no image. I do not have component cables so i cannot really test it. I completely powered of the Denon and turned it back and and still the same. any ideas?

I just got my Denon 3930CI and it was working fine for one week. Last night, the image froze in the middle of a movie but sound continued. I turned off the player and powered back on. It seemed fine afterthat. tonight, i put a movie in, it went to the movie main menu. I selected the sound option (DTS) and selected play movie and pressed play. The movie started but i still got the movie menu screen. i powered the player off again, now i get either absolutely no picture or a big red square in the middle of the screen. I am using the hdmi output and tried 480P/720P & 1080i which my Marantz accepts but still no image. I do not have component cables so i cannot really test it. I completely powered of the Denon and turned it back and and still the same. any ideas?

The "standby" button is just a soft power button. Try the real power button to its right, or better yet, unplug it for a while and plug it back in.