Well... I haven't logged on to this site (wouldn't ya know) for quite some time, but mine too has suddenly begun to act up! It freezes on discs that I've burned (now only at 1x), and last night on a commercial disc. Ugh. I'm sorry to hear that others are having this problem, but in a way it's comforting. :(

My 2930 is just over a year old, so I just need to either get it 'fixed', or find another solution... like the fan or firmware.

Not happy.

Did I see somewhere above that there is a firmware upgrade for the 2930? If so, where can I find it and what does it fix?
I looked on the German site as mentioned in another post... and couldn't find it (I don't read German).

Can someone help me find it and give some advice on installing?

Thanks!

shane

PM me your email address and I will hook you up.

My 3930Ci is showing some "sparkles", mostly at the borders of colors, when playing DVDs. Not too bad, but they are distracting and seem to appear only 30-60 minutes into whatever I'm watching. They're worse with HDMI than with component, and even the component is better at interlaced than progressive. Since this doesn't appear when I first start using it, I suspect it's overheating. I tried letting it sit alone on the floor, completely in the open, and it still happens. Has anyone else seen this? I may be able to take a video of it if needed.

I noticed something strange on my 2930 tonight...I seem to be having some difficulty to get the unit to correctly play WAV files that have been encoded with Dolby Digital.

If I connect the player via the optical output to the AVR it plays correctly, and the AVR is decoding the WAV file.

If I connect the payer via the analog outputs to the analog inputs on the back of the AVR, letting the 2930 decode the file, it never detects that this is a DD encoded wave file and all I hear is gibberish. Using a WAV file encoded with DTS works fine on optical and analog outputs.

I have played the same CD on a 3910 and that player correctly detects the cd as DD.

here is a link to a sample file:

http://www.kellyindustries.com/down...hz_ac3-wav2.zip

You should be able to burn this as a standard audio cd and have the 2930 play it using its own DACs...but it's not working as it should. I have several CDs worth of DTS wav file and everyone of those plays fine.

Maybe someone here who has the 2930 and is using the analog outputs can try to duplicate this problem?

I've duplicated the problem on my unit as well. The CD sounds like random ticking noise when using 5.1 outputs but sounds okay using optical output. Firmware is original (not upgraded yet).

The file link didn't work but I found it here anyway:
http://www.kellyindustries.com/sounds.html
Select AC-3 WAV @ 44.1kHz 2 to download and burn this file to audio CD:
diatonis_soal_48k.wav

This is probably a bug although I've not encountered it with any of my CDs.

I've duplicated the problem on my unit as well. The CD sounds like random ticking noise when using 5.1 outputs but sounds okay using optical output. Firmware is original (not upgraded yet).

The file link didn't work but I found it here anyway:
http://www.kellyindustries.com/sounds.html
Select AC-3 WAV @ 44.1kHz 2 to download and burn this file to audio CD:
diatonis_soal_48k.wav

This is probably a bug although I've not encountered it with any of my CDs.

thanks I appreciate you taking the time to do that.

It seems the 2930 is not detecting this as DD5.1 on CD. Strange since the 3910 worked just fine. I have an email in to Denon, and will post back once I hear something.

FWIW, I tried my S97 late last nite and it also won't lock onto the DD.

This was an excellent suggestion. My 2930 is now back in the component rack and DVDs no longer have freeze images or lockups.

Here's what I did:
Using double-stick tape, I mounted a 120mm computer fan on the top rear center of the 2930 directly above the venting holes. Power comes from an old cell phone charger (120V AC - 12V DC), where I cut/stripped the DC wires, inserted them into the fan's Molex power connector and electrical-taped it in place. The fan is an Antec you can purchase at BB for about $25 and has a Low/Med/High thumb switch. At the Low setting, fan noise is barely audible and is sufficent to vent heat out of the unit.

The top of the unit feels cooler now. It's still warm but not hot as it was before. The good news is that after playing DVDs for 6 straight hours, the 2930 w/fan is running perfectly.
I'm gonna install a fan on my 3930 too. Just as a precaution (my unit is not acting up.)

Please can somebody list the latest firmware for the UK model of the Denon DVD-2930? Is it still 8283-7 (15th Jan 2007) or 8283-9 (which I've seen mentioned)?

Also, what is the easiest procedure for identifying the firmware currently in the player? Is it the same as for the 3930 posted earlier in this thread?

Has anybody bought this player from purelygadgets.co.uk (the supplier for amazon.co.uk) and, if so, did yours come with the latest firmware already on board?

Where's the best place to find the latest firmware for the 2930 (UK model) if you didn't get your player from a Denon authorised dealer and the serial number doesn't work on their site?

Thanks!

Just noticed the build date of my "new" 3930... JUNE 2006!!! I did not think it was available back then. I also cannot get to the firmware screen..... Plus if I enter my serial number on the Denon Europe site, it says that it is not valid!!! I did buy the unit thru a Denon retailer...

Where is the build date stated?

Mitch

On a white sticker on the back panel.

On a white sticker on the back panel.
Couldn't find any sticker, but managed to check the firmware version and make day using the instructions in this post (which, incidentally, worked even though my player is region free).

Make day is "305", how on earth do I read that? March 5th? May 3rd? May 30th??

Firmware is version 5, so it seems to have the latest built in.

Thanks,

Mitch

Couldn't find any sticker, but managed to check the firmware version and make day using the instructions in this post (which, incidentally, worked even though my player is region free).

Make day is "305", how on earth do I read that? March 5th? May 3rd? May 30th??

Firmware is version 5, so it seems to have the latest built in.

Thanks,

Mitch
The 'Make day' has nothing to do with the build date of the actual player.
It's the same for all players having the same firmware revision and refers to the date the firmware was compiled/changed.

Adri.

The 'Make day' has nothing to do with the build date of the actual player.
It's the same for all players having the same firmware revision and refers to the date the firmware was compiled/changed.

Adri.

I understand. Thanks for the clarification. The actual build date doesn't really matter, though, now that I've ascertained that my player has the latest firmware.

Mitch

Let us know how the 9600 tests when you get it home. It's near impossible for me to judge audio/video quality until I get the gear home and do a direct A/B comparison in my room, w/ my equipment, test discs and familiar software.



I have had the Marantz DV9600 for a week odd now ( to replace my problematic Denon 3930) ......to sum it up, it is a vast improvement over the Denon..

The first thing that you notice with the Marantz is the speed to which it responds...very fast.
I have put MANY disc,s both region 1 and 4 through it and NOT one problem, unlike the Denon with artifacted on many of the same disc,s.

The one area that has stunned me is the amount of detail that the Marantz resolves!!!
I honestly thought the Denon did a good job, even compared to my HTPC, but the Marantz is honestly on another level. VERY VERY happy..

Users in this thread have repeatably stated the 3930 is second only to the Denon 5910.....if you get hands on experience with the 9600 you may well change that view...

All in all, i am happy to have paid the higher price for the Marantz, as the results on the screen are definatley better...AND trouble free...

how is the 9600's sound quality compared to the denon?

I can't imagine these two models -- priced at the same market level -- would be that much different. They have the same parent company and share many of the same manufacturing processes and internal components. Not unlike the Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable of yesteryear.

Is this an educated guess or do you know this for a fact? They have completely different video sections/components. Don't know about audio/analog side.

larry

I can't imagine these two models -- priced at the same market level -- would be that much different. They have the same parent company and share many of the same manufacturing processes and internal components. Not unlike the Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable of yesteryear.

Internal components shared...I dont think so ...
The Marantz uses ABT ( the same as the Denon 5910..NOT 3930 which uses HQV ) for video processing and the audio components are completeley different, supposedly higher end than the Denon.

From my point of view the audio is excellent, very detailed without being harsh.

The thing that's interesting to me is the Marantz DV9600 was released to the market much earlier than the Denon DVD-3930CI, like almost a year before the Denon (if I'm correct?).

At this point in time it would be tough to justify the cost of the Marantz DV9600 as this fall a whole new-generation of electronics will be released. I would'nt be surprised to see comparable Denon and Marantz disc-player products released with HD capable video playback.

Is this an educated guess or do you know this for a fact? They have completely different video sections/components. Don't know about audio/analog side.

larry
I can't tell you component by component, but they are designed to be equivalent and appeal to similar buyers at that price point. From a business standpoint, you won't often see Marantz and Denon sold by the same authorized dealers. Just a way of acquiring as much market share as possible for DM Holdings.
As for the different video sections, HQV is reputed to be superior to the ABT of Marantz.

Thanks to PLincoln I was able to update the firmware on my 2930. Great. It seems to be a little quicker with some things. That is good.

The main reason I wanted (needed?) the update was because of a problem I'm having playing DVD's that I burn.

I record LP's into the computer (at 24 bit, 96 khz) and edit, clean, etc. Then I use DVD Architect to burn them onto a DVD with a Pioneer drive.

The 2930 will play them all. By 'all' I mean different brands at different burn speeds (1x - 4x).

Here's the problem... after about an hour it fails. It either just stops playing or I get a loud HISSSSSSS over the music. If I pause the disc or FF it a little bit, I can resume playing... for a while. Then it will do it again after about 5 or 10 minutes of playing.

Part 2 of the problem seems similar. I have the same issue with my burned discs of home-movies, vacation slide-shows, etc. They play fine for about 20-30 min. and then they fault (just stop playing... no hiss).

Anyone have any suggestions??

Other than this... I still love the 2930!

cheers.

shane

Shane,

You may want to take a look at this thread:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=717926&highlight=2930ci

It seems that drive failure issues are common for this model. My unit is back at Denon in Mahwah NJ for the third time. The first two times for HDMI board failures and now for DVD-R, DVD+R read problems. My DVD-2930ci has been out for repairs more than it's been in my home since purchasing it in early February. Sure when it's working it's great, but 3x for repairs...?


Part 2 of the problem seems similar. I have the same issue with my burned discs of home-movies, vacation slide-shows, etc. They play fine for about 20-30 min. and then they fault (just stop playing... no hiss).

Anyone have any suggestions??

This is further evidence that Denon's quality is suspect. Don't take me wrong, I love Denon, but I am finding that their reliability and quality control has been deteriorating ever since they moved production over to China.

Shane,

You may want to take a look at this thread:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=717926&highlight=2930ci

It seems that drive failure issues are common for this model. My unit is back at Denon in Mahwah NJ for the third time. The first two times for HDMI board failures and now for DVD-R, DVD+R read problems. My DVD-2930ci has been out for repairs more than it's been in my home since purchasing it in early February. Sure when it's working it's great, but 3x for repairs...?

Yes, I know the thread well... I posted several times on it.
At that time I had no problems with the unit. These just developed. The unit is 11 months old (just checked), so I'm still under warranty.

I wonder if updating the firmware voids the warranty??? :confused: :eek:

shane

Yes, I know the thread well... I posted several times on it.
At that time I had no problems with the unit. These just developed. The unit is 11 months old (just checked), so I'm still under warranty.

I wonder if updating the firmware voids the warranty??? :confused: :eek:

shane

When my player came back from Denon last time, they installed firmware version 8283-9 so unless they take issue with the fact that you installed it yourself, I can't see that they'd consider your warrantee as void.

Shane, If you're considering sending your unit to Denon for repair, I've PM'd you the name of a tech who seemed reasonably competent.

When my player came back from Denon last time, they installed firmware version 8283-9 so unless they take issue with the fact that you installed it yourself, I can't see that they'd consider your warrantee as void.

Shane, If you're considering sending your unit to Denon for repair, I've PM'd you the name of a tech who seemed reasonably competent.

Got your PM. Thanks.
Going to pack it up this weekend and ship it out on Monday.

When is yours due back?? Are you going to keep it if it's running well or Audiogon it and try something else?

At least I've got an Oppo (workhorse) that I can put in its place until it comes back.

Cheers.

shane

Got your PM. Thanks.
Going to pack it up this weekend and ship it out on Monday.

When is yours due back?? Are you going to keep it if it's running well or Audiogon it and try something else?

At least I've got an Oppo (workhorse) that I can put in its place until it comes back.

Cheers.

shane
I sent mine last week and it looks like it arrived in NJ today. They usually sit on the unit for a week before they send it back. If they don't have the part(s) they need, they'll keep it for a month before sending a replacement unit. So minimum two weeks before I see mine again.

I bought the DVD-2930 as a replacement for my DVD-1920. The 1920 has been my backup and has been pretty solid. In fact it's been a useful tool to get the Denon techs to approve a repair. When they initially questioned some of the behavior I was seeing, I could honestly tell them "it does not happen on my DVD-1920". That seemed to speed up the approval process.

I'm not sure what I'm going to do when I get the 2930 back. I bought it because a.) I wanted to avoid macroblocking on my Panasonic plasma display b.) I like listening to SACD and DVD-A c.) I have a lot of non-region 1 DVDs in my collection. There don't seem to be many players that promise to do the above as well as the Denon 2930/3930/5910 should, but at this point the newly announced Oppo DV-980H sounds tempting.

I sent mine last week and it looks like it arrived in NJ today. They usually sit on the unit for a week before they send it back. If they don't have the part(s) they need, they'll keep it for a month before sending a replacement unit. So minimum two weeks before I see mine again.

I bought the DVD-2930 as a replacement for my DVD-1920. The 1920 has been my backup and has been pretty solid. In fact it's been a useful tool to get the Denon techs to approve a repair. When they initially questioned some of the behavior I was seeing, I could honestly tell them "it does not happen on my DVD-1920". That seemed to speed up the approval process.

I'm not sure what I'm going to do when I get the 2930 back. I bought it because a.) I wanted to avoid macroblocking on my Panasonic plasma display b.) I like listening to SACD and DVD-A c.) I have a lot of non-region 1 DVDs in my collection. There don't seem to be many players that promise to do the above as well as the Denon 2930/3930/5910 should, but at this point the newly announced Oppo DV-980H sounds tempting.

Yes... I bought my 2930 for similar reasons (except for the region 1 discs). As you can see, I too have a Panny PDP. I use the D-link for all my multi-channel sources, and considered that heavily in my purchase. Stereo is 2-ch analog out of the 2930, utilizing the better conversion and sound than the receiver.

The Oppo is a great unit. My 970 will play everything well, but of course doesn't have the D-link, nor are the DAC's as good, as I'll have to depend on the 5.1 ch analog output for SACD's and DVD-a's. I also doubt the image quality will be as good, but it'll tide me over for a month (or so)... if that's what it takes to get the fixed unit back from NJ.

Cheers.

shane

New Denon Blu-ray player was announced yesterday (MSRP = $1,999.) Seems a bargain at only $500. above what we paid for our 3930's :(

New Denon Blu-ray player was announced yesterday you knew it was comng, however, for how much. Where did you see this?

you knew it was comng, however, for how much. Where did you see this?

There's a link on the AVSForum landing page, or you can go to http://www.cepro.com/

The company calls the 3800, which will have a suggested retail price of $1,999, the “world’s first BD-ROM Profile 1 version 1.1 Blu-ray disc player from a Blu-ray Disc Associaiton member featuring the acclaimed 10-bit Silicon Optix Realta chipset.”

It does not look like this unit does SACD or DVD-A, so I'm not sure it's fair to compare it directly to the 3930.

New firmware out for the 2930 today

8283-A (Day 719)


new: improved playback on cd with hdmi .....dunno whats else new

New firmware out for the 2930 today

8283-A (Day 719)


new: improved playback on cd with hdmi .....dunno whats else new

can someone post this?

can someone post this?


direct link

h**p://firmware.denon-online.eu/download.php?id=154776

used my serial and i have a silver one :)

direct link

h**p://firmware.denon-online.eu/download.php?id=154776

used my serial and i have a silver one :)

same here...got it.

I'll gladly forward it again to anyone that PM's me.

Can't understand why it's taking so long for Denon to release first official firmware update version for DVD-3930CI?

New Denon Blu-ray player was announced yesterday (MSRP = $1,999.) Seems a bargain at only $500. above what we paid for our 3930's :(

If you don't care about SACD or DVD-A, neither of which the Denon player will play, and I submit that anyone that didn't care about either probably wouldn't have sprung for a 3930CI in the first place.

Guess I'm one of the rare ones that did.

If you don't care about SACD or DVD-A, neither of which the Denon player will play, and I submit that anyone that didn't care about either probably wouldn't have sprung for a 3930CI in the first place.
Whoa, thats a lot of negatives in one sentence. I'm not sure what you said. :p

At any rate, I don't really care about either of those, but I did buy one, mostly for its upconverting capability. I haven't had any of the problems folks have been talking about, although the conversation has been making me a bit nervous.

OTOH, I did manage to get one for about 2/3 the normal price (new, sealed box, from an authorized bricks and mortar dealer), so I don't feel like I spent too much. To be honest, though, after they raped me on speakers I think maybe they felt sorry for me.

If you don't care about SACD or DVD-AI'm another who (primarily) bought the DVD-3930CI for it's SACD and DVD-A (or audio) playback capabilities.

I'm another who (primarily) bought the DVD-3930CI for it's SACD and DVD-A (or audio) playback capabilities.

Me too.

Anyone who bought one of these should have known the day would likely come when Denon would have a universal blu-ray player.

My 3930 currently spends time in both my audio and video systems.

When it comes time to adopt Blue-Ray the 3930 will stay in the audio system and a video only player will become part of the video system.

Is/will there be any such thing as a blu-ray player that only does video?

Is/will there be any such thing as a blu-ray player that only does video?

Probably not.

I meant that my BD player would be chosen for it's video capabilities. I won't be looking for SACD, DVD-A or even CD playback.

i.e. a basic Sony or whatever should do just fine for my needs.

When it comes time to adopt Blue-Ray the 3930 will stay in the audio system and a video only player will become part of the video systemexactly my plan as well.

Well, I bought my 3930CI for the seamless layer change and excellent upconverting abilities, but also because I wanted a universal disc player - CD, DVD, DVD-A and SACD.

When I saw no BR player could play DVD-A and SACD, I knew I was making the right decision, even though I also realized I'd likely be in the market for a BR player within a year or two.

I don't have separate audio and video systems; the video uses the audio system for playback and I've never regretted it. :D

I don't have separate audio and video systems; the video uses the audio system for playback and I've never regretted it.actually, that's what I meant to say above- that I will eventually purchase a BluRay player (for BluRay video playback), but will continue to use the DVD-3930CI as my primary audio playback source, as well as for Stand Def video playback.

I have one main A/V system. I just pre-ordered an (up-and-coming) NAD T175 surround processor. I figure I will connect the BluRay via HDMI (for, both, video and audio). And connect the DVD-3930CI via 5.1ch analog external inputs (for multi-channel music), 2ch analog (for stereo music source), digital-coax (for audio playback on DVD-Movies), and HDMI for video (DVD-Movies).

New firmware out for the 2930 today

8283-A (Day 719)


new: improved playback on cd with hdmi .....dunno whats else new


I installed this firmware update last night for my 2930CI. Has anybody found any difference with audio or video performance? I haven't noticed any thing different or improved for cd playback with my connection to a Denon 3806 receiver via hdmi cable and Denon link. The description provided by Denon doesn't tell us much.

The firmware displayed by the player now indicates:

BE 8283-A
Make Day 719
DSP 8250

This updated my player's firmware from version BE 8283-9.

I recall from earlier posts that some people were having issues with burned cd's. If someone can provide any information concerning what needed improvement I would appreciate it. I bought this player one month ago new, not a refurb. from a US internet dealer.

I installed this firmware update last night for my 2930CI. Has anybody found any difference with audio or video performance? I haven't noticed any thing different or improved for cd playback with my connection to a Denon 3806 receiver via hdmi cable and Denon link. The description provided by Denon doesn't tell us much.

The firmware displayed by the player now indicates:

BE 8283-A
Make Day 719
DSP 8250

This updated my player's firmware from version BE 8283-9.

I recall from earlier posts that some people were having issues with burned cd's. If someone can provide any information concerning what needed improvement I would appreciate it. I bought this player one month ago new, not a refurb. from a US internet dealer.

I suspect the fix was for some specific cd's that gave the player problems. Doubtful that the majority of people will be affected.

I noticed Denon posted a new firmware for the 3930 on their european site. They labeled it "GEN8284-6". Anyone try this on their US-spec 3930CI yet?

I just now upgraded my 2930CI to firmware version BE 8283-A. Thank you PLincoln for the zip file; the upgrade process worked perfectly. I followed the instructions in the included PDF and from other posts (around page 90 of this thread - important to de-select Joliet option (ISO 9660 only), burn CD at 4x and verify burn). My only comment is that, following the PDF instructions to the letter, step 5 will tell you to turn the unit OFF, but there is no mention to turn the unit back ON before step 6. You need to, obviously, otherwise nothing will happen.

Remember to record all of your settings before upgrading. Some settings are not displayed until you select them and go down a layer (audio, speaker distance and attenuation, for example).

After the upgrade, I played two of my reference DVDs and SACDs and they sounded and looked great. Excellent before and excellent after. I doubt the upgrade will have an effect on the thermal problems I was experiencing but feel better now that unit has the latest firmware in place.

Thanx to PLincoln I did recieve the firmware update.
The strange thing is, that I can't make the update work.
I did follow the instructions by the book, but nothing.

After the "initialize' I put in the disc, but it won't recognise the content on it. I used an cdr ànd a dvdr disc to make it work.

Any suggestions?

Thanx to PLincoln I did recieve the firmware update.
The strange thing is, that I can't make the update work.
I did follow the instructions by the book, but nothing.

After the "initialize' I put in the disc, but it won't recognise the content on it. I used an cdr ànd a dvdr disc to make it work.

Any suggestions?

before burning the disc.

remember to include the folder of the firmware file

zip file ->yellow folder ->rom file


burning with no multisession, no juliet, and at 4x or lower, then finalize the disc.

but the most important thing is to include the folder when you extract it from the zip

before burning the disc.

remember to include the folder of the firmware file

zip file ->yellow folder ->rom file


burning with no multisession, no juliet, and at 4x or lower, then finalize the disc.

but the most important thing is to include the folder when you extract it from the zip


Hurey! It worked like a charm, when I burned it 8x (couldn't at the suggested 4x).
Thanx a bunch!

Would 24fps output via HDMI be possible with a future firmware update for the 3930 or are there hardware limitations in place somewhere (scaler chip, HDMI chip)?

The new 2930 is $849, not $1500.

And yes, the Oppo is an alternative.

I do not intend to deal with the operational clunkiness of the Toshiba HD DVD.

I will look at whichever format is around in another 3 years or so.

:)

The Toshiba A2 is $299 (or less some places, plus gives you several free HD-DVD movies) and has none of the really bad operational glitches of the A1. If you want the best PQ, and presumably you do, I still say the A2 or XA2 is the better choice for less money, especially if you have a large 1080p display.

EDIT:

Okay, I've done a LOT more digging and it seems my centre speaker is blown. I substituted it for a hi-fi speaker and it was perfect! I then took the centre speaker to my hi-fi system and it sounded like pants. Absolutely no trebble at all. Perhaps the tweeter has blown or something. Just a co-incidence that it blew at the same time as I switched DVD players!

Anyway, this has NOTHING to do with the Denon 2930 which is absolutely fabulous so far!

The Toshiba A2 is $299 (or less some places, plus gives you several free HD-DVD movies) and has none of the really bad operational glitches of the A1. If you want the best PQ, and presumably you do, I still say the A2 or XA2 is the better choice for less money, especially if you have a large 1080p display.

the A2 has no where near the SD quality of the 2930 or the XA2. I've owned all three and the A2's deinterlacer is not on par with the other 2 players. Also, both toshiba's have horrible layer changes...the 2930 has none. for SD i would not recommend the A2 or XA2 over the 2930.

Before I purchased a 2930CI in June, I used a Toshiba HD-XA1 with latest firmware for SD playback. As mentioned for the XA2, the layer changes were very noticeable. Plus it sometimes would not play certain SD discs until I loaded it five or more times. It seemed like it had to learn something about the disc before it would play. IMO-In A-B comparisons, the DAC's are way better in the 2930, particularly for the LFE channel.

Hi Trekker, I also think that Superman Returns on SD is way too Bassy, so I turn down my LFE adjustment way back and the compensate by turning the volume up so I can have better dialog levels and my bass is where is I like , which I think is should have been all along, bass that you can feel but not so far bloated that it covers the dialog and the highs. This disc is mixed too richly, I commonly make these adjustments on most of the newer DVD's. Thats my opinion. Buck

Hi Trekker, I also think that Superman Returns on SD is way too Bassy, so I turn down my LFE adjustment way back and the compensate by turning the volume up so I can have better dialog levels and my bass is where is I like , which I think is should have been all along, bass that you can feel but not so far bloated that it covers the dialog and the highs. This disc is mixed too richly, I commonly make these adjustments on most of the newer DVD's. Thats my opinion. Buck

Thanks PA Buck. "Too rich" isn't a phrase I would use to describe the mix as I heard it last night. Weak and thin would be a better description. But your description of the conflict between dialogue and bass on Superman Returns is definitely something I can relate to!

It does seem nowadays that bass, surround and "noise" are far important than dialogue. Most disc reviews I read indicate that dialogue is "clear" and "can be understood" which is about as good as it gets it seems :-(

In A-B comparisons, the DAC's are way better in the 2930, particularly for the LFE channel.

and how exactly did you A-B the DAC's on the LFE channel...be specific about how the units were connected to the AVR and how they were level matched.

I noticed Denon posted a new firmware for the 3930 on their european site. They labeled it "GEN8284-6". Anyone try this on their US-spec 3930CI yet?

I'll be doing it when my 3930 gets back from SACDmods.com where its
getting audio upgrades at the moment.
The -5 upgrade went well, no reason the think the -6 won't be as effortless.

Pete

and how exactly did you A-B the DAC's on the LFE channel...be specific about how the units were connected to the AVR and how they were level matched.



I have them routed into a Monoprice HDMI switcher, A-B done by switching the inputs with the remote. Channel levels for both the same in my Denon 3806. Level matching was done with a SPL meter mounted on tripod. I didn't use the Audyssey feature because I want my main left and right speakers set to small. Main ref. level set to 85db, subwoofer at +4db SPL above main ref . level.

I have them routed into a Monoprice HDMI switcher, A-B done by switching the inputs with the remote. Channel levels for both the same in my Denon 3806. Level matching was done with a SPL meter mounted on tripod. I didn't use the Audyssey feature because I want my main left and right speakers set to small. Main ref. level set to 85db, subwoofer at +4db SPL above main ref . level.

well if you're using HDMI, digital coax, or toslink to carry audio to the AVR, then the DAC's have nothing to do with it as the AVR is doing the d/a conversion.

well if you're using HDMI, digital coax, or toslink to carry audio to the AVR, then the DAC's have nothing to do with it as the AVR is doing the d/a conversion.


You are correct. There are other variables to consider besides channel matching in the AVR. :o

You are correct. There are other variables to consider besides channel matching in the AVR. :o

I'm curious what material (ie which DVDs) you demo'ed when A-B'ing?

First a shout to PLincoln for getting the latest 2930 firmware to me (as the site wouldn't accept my serial #).

The three DVD's that had been problematic (DVD-R's, each well over an hour in length) all played flawlessly from start to finish after the firmware install. This is great news.

The only difference btwn the tests and 'normal' playback mode was that the cabinet door was open during these tests. The unit stayed nice and cool... It was a relatively cool day. In other words, on a hot day, with the cabinet closed, I may see these problems re-appear. If they do, I'll know it's a heat issue.

Meanwhile, back to all-out enjoyment of the sights and sounds. :D

Thanks all.

shane

First a shout to PLincoln for getting the latest 2930 firmware to me (as the site wouldn't accept my serial #).

The three DVD's that had been problematic (DVD-R's, each well over an hour in length) all played flawlessly from start to finish after the firmware install. This is great news.

The only difference btwn the tests and 'normal' playback mode was that the cabinet door was open during these tests. The unit stayed nice and cool... It was a relatively cool day. In other words, on a hot day, with the cabinet closed, I may see these problems re-appear. If they do, I'll know it's a heat issue.

Meanwhile, back to all-out enjoyment of the sights and sounds. :D

Thanks all.

shane

Shane...You're quite welcome, and it's great news that everything is working well. FWIW, I keep all my equipment well ventilated and have yet to have any problems...knock on wood :)

-patrick

So her i am right back with news from the upgrade on the Realta chip in the Denon DVD-3930 NOT THE CI version Europe Model only. READ BACK For my other post about this.


Hardware modification was not needed and is not delivered.
The Technical Department of Denon did update my DVD-3930 with new software for the Realta Chip and now i do have a new IP number See below:


Display Info DVD-3930 on 18-06-2007

BE 8284-5
Make Day 305
DSP 8250
IP 060802

Display Info DVD-3930 on 02-08-2007 after the update

BE 8284-5
Make Day 305
DSP 8250
IP 070518

The Player plays it's picture better than before the update.
I did not let the player upgade the normal firmware to version 8284-6 yet because i think it's better testing with the same firmware in the unit itself.

The upgrade on the unit was compleetly free and did took a week longer than planned.

But glad as i am now its back and again better.

Thanks Denon.


Going to upgrade to firmware 8284-6 later this week and again i will post it for all customers.

Have a nice day everyone.

Shane...You're quite welcome, and it's great news that everything is working well. FWIW, I keep all my equipment well ventilated and have yet to have any problems...knock on wood :)

-patrick

Yup. My prior 'media center' allowed the doors to stay open when in use. Not this newer one (beautiful hand-made piece). I just may have to take off the smoked-glass doors as keeping them swung open during use is very dangerous (90-degree, dark glass... ouch). :o

The WAF may get hurt, but only slightly.

'Keep it cool'. Words to live by.

shane

Yup. My prior 'media center' allowed the doors to stay open when in use. Not this newer one (beautiful hand-made piece). I just may have to take off the smoked-glass doors as keeping them swung open during use is very dangerous (90-degree, dark glass... ouch). :o

The WAF may get hurt, but only slightly.

'Keep it cool'. Words to live by.

shane

you might consider adding some sort of active cooling to the rear of the cabinet if that's possible...a nice quiet fan that turns on with you AVR maybe? Not sure if you have any openings in the rear...just a thought

Here the link to the latest firmware for the DVD-3930 and DVD-3930CI.

Firmware is for all units out there.

Firmware Info:

Version: 8284-6
Datum: 25-07-2007

* Extract BE8284-6_719_DVD3930_3930CI.zip

* Burn the Folder DVD_3930 with The content D393SAVD.ROM inside it on CD according to ISO 9660 (no juliet) at 4x or slower and close the CD.
[I recomment Nero Burning rom for this job]

Description:

* Improvement of the CD playback over HDMI connection.

Get the file and read the text file inside the zip file.

Link xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxx

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

Ass always i said flashing at your own risk,
No warranty at all from Denon when something may be go wrong.
You know flashing is always a risk.

What changed between Version 8284-5 and 8284-6?

What changed between Version 8284-5 and 8284-6?

Description:

* Improvement of the CD playback over HDMI connection.

Dutchman01,
What changed between Version 8284-5 over 8284-3?
Because I'm now still using the version 8284-3.

Dutchman01,
What changed between Version 8284-5 over 8284-3?
Because I'm now still using the version 8284-3.


Improvements between 8284-3 and 8284-5

* Improvement of the sensitivity of the remote sensor of the DVD Players.

* Recovery of memory problems.



You can better go for the latest firmware because all firmware update's before the latest firmware are insite the last firmware.

Again a new Firmware is Out There for the DVD-3930 and DVD-3930 CI

firmware version: 8284-7 Date: 08.08.2007

Changelog:

* When "Track Skip Fwd/Rev" button is pushed early two times or more when
the CD-DA disc is PAUSE, "Play" button is not accepted;
The repeat function was turned on when the SACD disc had stopped and it played,
or the SACD disc is played by the All Repeat function.
Afterwards, the repeat function doesn't operate when stopping and playing.
* DVD-AUDIO cannot be played.
When "Right" of "Cursor" or "Left" is pushed when "Page" of "Image quality
adjustment screen" is displayed, it freezes it by "Gamma display".
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get the Firmware from this link below.

Extract the file and read the file 'Changelog and Instructions DVD3930 and DVD-3930CI' insite it before flashing the unit.

http://rapidshare.com/files/48023385/GEN8284-7_802_DVD3930CI_3930.zip

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Things are getting better and better with the 3930 :) :) :)

Here the changelog from the past firmware versions.

changelog firmware version: 8284-6

* improvement of CD playback via HDMI.

changelog firmware version: 8284-5

* improvement of remote control sensor.

* fixing of memory capabilities.

changelog firmware version: 8284-3

* general improvement of playback, improvement of compatibility to not standard conformed CD's.

Those update's are also in the latest 8284-7 firmware.

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

How to check your firmware on the DVD-3930 and DVD-3930CI

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

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Display Info on my DVD-3930

BE 8284-7
Make Day 802
DSP 8250
IP 070518

(Your IP number should be lower becouse i did have get at the Denon Service Station a Software Upgrade on the Realta HQV Processor.)


Have a Nice Patch Day

Dutchman.

Thank you for the info.

Meanwhile, despite several phone calls to Denon USA service, no hint of when, or in fact if Denon USA will ever bother to make any fixes available for download. :(

Meanwhile, despite several phone calls to Denon USA service, no hint of when, or in fact if Denon USA will ever bother to make any fixes available for download. :(

Support from Denon is not that good global over the world. :mad:
Don't wait for Denon USA for they make this firmware available for you. :p


Get this firmware from my link goes a lot faster and is for all units out there. :)
Your serial number will not pass the europe denon update page so that's why i post them here. :) :) :)

http://rapidshare.com/files/48023385/GEN8284-7_802_DVD3930CI_3930.zip

Have a nice day. :)

Dutchman01,

Thanks for the valueable service you are providing to 3930ci owners
on this forum.

Thanks!
Pete

Is there a new firmware version for the 2930 as well?

Is there a new firmware version for the 2930 as well?

i don't know, i don't have a valid 2930 unit serial number to look for some update's at the denon europe update site.

Up until last weekend I was happily running a Denon AVR-3805 receiver with a Denon 2900 DVD player via a co-axial connection. The input mode was set to "auto".

- When I inserted a CD the receiver automatically snapped into Stereo mode.
- When I inserted a DVD it played it as Dolby PLII
- When I started a DVD it automatically detected the DD5/1 or DTS5.1 stream and played that.
- When the disc stopped it reverted to PLII.

Life was easy.

Last weekend I bought a Denon DVD-2930 player and connected it to the AVE-3805 via Denon Link. Although the input mode on my 3805 is still set to "auto" my my 3805 is behaving strangely.

For example:
- When I insert and play a CD it detects and plays it as Dolby PLII unless I specifically tell it to play as stereo (which I never had to before)
- When I play a DVD is detected the DD5.1 or DTS5.1 signal but when that signal is lost (e.g. I stop the disc) the DD5.1 or DTS5.1 indicator remains lit and does not revert back to PLII until I put a different source in.

I re-connected the co-axial cable and it appears to behave the same way.

Is anyone else having this "problem"? The only element of my system that's changed is the 2930 so I'm guessing it is to "blame". Does the 2930 not send out the correct signal indicating the plain old stereo format? And does it send out DD5.1 and DTS5.1 streams differently to the 2900?

My Pio 49txi receiver acted more or less like that with my 47ai via i.Link. PLII is for 2-ch source and gets surround info that may be matrixed in the 2 channels. I had to switch to stereo also if I wanted just 2-ch. You'll get used to it. :)

larry

There's a new firmware out (8/08) for the 2930ci, it's 8283-B. Here's the changelist specific to that release:

8283-B
•When "Track Skip Fwd/Rev" button is pushed early two times or more when the CD-DA disc is PAUSE, "Play" button is not accepted;
•The repeat function was turned onwhen the SACD disc had stopped and it played, or the SACD disc is played by the All Repeat function. Afterwards, the repeat function doesn't operate when stopping and playing.
•DVD-AUDIO cannot be played. (some?)
•When "Right" of "Cursor" or "Left" is pushed when "Page" of "Image quality adjustment screen" is displayed, it freezes it by "Gamma display".

There's a new firmware out (8/08) for the 2930ci, it's 8283-B.

Thanks Konoyaro. I noticed some strange behavior after the last firmware. Especially, it was very difficult to play the high resolution tracks on some DVD-Audios.
I thought I would have to go back to an older firmware.

Don't wait for Denon USA for they make this firmware available for you.yeah, but also be aware that you may void your Denon U.S.A. product warranty.

For ALL Europe Customers off the DVD-3930 (NOT 3930CI)

There is a problem with the Progressive Auto modus and PAL dvd's.
De-interlacing is not right with the unit it has some artefacts on the picture and some minnor other progressive mode bug's.

This problem was known for some time but a fix was not there........
Denon and Realta did need some time how to fix this problem and make a solution for it.

ALL EUROPE MODELS ARE HAVING THOSE PROBLEMS.


Is the DVD-2930 affected as well?

Is there anyone here who could host the 2930CI's latest firmware? I would greatly appreciate it.

Is the DVD-2930 affected as well?

No, only the europe model 3930 have that problem.
update is for the Realta HQV chip.

after that update the ip on 3930 goes to IP 070518

I've posted firmware version 8283-B on rapidshare. You can use the link below.
http://rapidshare.com/files/48441376/GEN8283-B_802_DVD2930CI_2930.zip.html
As others have mentioned, terms and conditions apply, your mileage may vary, use at your own risk, this may void your warrantee, etc.

I've posted firmware version 8283-B on rapidshare. You can use the link below.
http://rapidshare.com/files/48441376/GEN8283-B_802_DVD2930CI_2930.zip.html
As others have mentioned, terms and conditions apply, your mileage may vary, use at your own risk, this may void your warrantee, etc.
Thank you very much. It worked like a charm. :)

yeah, but also be aware that you may void your Denon U.S.A. product warranty.

That would be pretty chicken sh*t of Denon to do, especially when new machines
sold in the US have the same firmware factory installed...

But its a crappy one year warrantee anyway, so wait till your year is up,
if you're that worried about it.

you might consider adding some sort of active cooling to the rear of the cabinet if that's possible...a nice quiet fan that turns on with you AVR maybe? Not sure if you have any openings in the rear...just a thought

Patrick.
Actually... the entire back of the cabinet is open, so if I just remove the glass there should be some good airflow. If THAT is still not enough, a fan will be the answer for sure.

Speaking of firmware (well... we were, kinda). I'm going to try the newest one (thanks konoyaro) that was just uploaded.

I was playing Season 2 of 'Weeds' and it froze after the second episode. It came back to life after about 2 minutes. Odd thing, the machine was barely warm, so I doubt it's a heat issue... well, at least this particular hiccup.

Anyway... thanks to all for the continual assistance with the firmware, etc.

shane

Is anybody else finding that the disc tray on the 2930 a little bit... wobbly? Especially when there's a disc on it?

Is it supposed to be?

Does the DVD-2930CI have digital delay management when playing SACD while using analog connections? From the specifications at http://usa.denon.com/ProductDetails/3262.asp it seems so, but can anyone of you please confirm that?

Does the DVD-2930CI have digital delay management when playing SACD while using analog connections? From the specifications at http://usa.denon.com/ProductDetails/3262.asp it seems so, but can anyone of you please confirm that?

The German (www.denon.de) site says very explicit (underlined "und" themselves) that there is digital delay management for SACD:

Laufzeitkorrektur für DVD-Audio und SACD

Originally Posted by Dutchman01
For ALL Europe Customers off the DVD-3930 (NOT 3930CI)

There is a problem with the Progressive Auto modus and PAL dvd's.
De-interlacing is not right with the unit it has some artefacts on the picture and some minnor other progressive mode bug's.

This problem was known for some time but a fix was not there........
Denon and Realta did need some time how to fix this problem and make a solution for it.

ALL EUROPE MODELS ARE HAVING THOSE PROBLEMS.

Do you think it will be a firmware update for that issue?

Nacho.

Hello,

I sent mine too the denon dealer last week.

I hope for a quick return.

But i will let you know what the difference is.


Mvrg,
Raymen

Originally Posted by Dutchman01
For ALL Europe Customers off the DVD-3930 (NOT 3930CI)

There is a problem with the Progressive Auto modus and PAL dvd's.
De-interlacing is not right with the unit it has some artefacts on the picture and some minnor other progressive mode bug's.

This problem was known for some time but a fix was not there........
Denon and Realta did need some time how to fix this problem and make a solution for it.

ALL EUROPE MODELS ARE HAVING THOSE PROBLEMS.

[COLOR=Yellow]Do you think it will be a firmware update for that issue?

Nacho.

Yes there is a firmware solution for it.
Only thing you must do is bring it in to Denon where the technical staff wil upgrade the Realta prosessor software insite the unit.

Can't do it by your self. ONLY the Europe model 3930 do have this option.

A big thanks to Dutchman01.
I have a 3930ci USA. The firmware that was on my 3930 was the original firmware 8284. I see a substantial difference in the picture quality (better). Also i had a bug were the picture would go blank for a few seconds and then come back on. This only happened about two times on 1 DVD out of three. Now i haven't had any of this problem after the new firmware upgrade.
The only thing is that the upgrade put my color a little off. By about 1 # that i changed and all seems well.
I used the Dutchman firmware upgrade # 8284-7 i think that this is the latest firmware.

Hello,

I sent mine too the denon dealer last week.

I hope for a quick return.

But i will let you know what the difference is.


Mvrg,
Raymen

So your unit is back home again,

How is your unit working right now?

Are u seeing the picture improvements as i did see?:):):)

So your unit is back home again,

How is your unit working right now?

Are u seeing the picture improvements as i did see?

Yep,Picked it up today.

I am watching for 2 hours now.

And yes there is an improvemend,but a little.:D:D

I believe the overal picture is more cleaner,and the colours seem beter in place.

I don`t know how too discibe it.

There is a change,but difficult too tell;).

But i`m happy that i send the unit back to the dealer.

Thanx Dutchman1.

No, only the europe model 3930 have that problem.
update is for the Realta HQV chip.

after that update the ip on 3930 goes to IP 070518

I talked to a Denon dealer and he said that according to internal documentation the 2930 (Euro version) is affected as well. As with 3930 the unit needs to be sent to a factory to have the upgrade.

I talked to a Denon dealer and he said that according to internal documentation the 2930 (Euro version) is affected as well. As with 3930 the unit needs to be sent to a factory to have the upgrade.

Thanks Allsop4now. Does anyone know if the US versions of these players are affected by this problem? Of course most US players will be using NTSC most of the time, but they are supposed to be compatible with PAL. I do have some PAL discs that I play and I would like my 2930CI to be fully capable to play these properly.

Thanks Allsop4now. Does anyone know if the US versions of these players are affected by this problem? Of course most US players will be using NTSC most of the time, but they are supposed to be compatible with PAL. I do have some PAL discs that I play and I would like my 2930CI to be fully capable to play these properly.

Yes, i think personally the 3930CI does have the same problem with PAL dvd's but the problem at Denon USA is that the doesn't made all the firmware update's availeble at there denon support site.

The denny anny firmware update for the 3930CI and AVR-4306 and AVR-3806.
only we at europe still get those update's on the denon support site and when we bring in the unit to the denon service center.

The USA Denon Support is way below the limit if you ask me.

Thanks for your comment, Dutchman. I will call Denon and ask about the PAL issue. That is, I will call when I have 30 minutes to wait on hold. :)
"way below the limit" is a nice way to say it! :)

The USA Denon Support is way below the limit if you ask me.yeah, I don't understand it either. What could be keeping Denon USA from releasing firmware updates for the DVD-3939CI? The unit has been in consumers hands now going on 1 year.

yeah, I don't understand it either. What could be keeping Denon USA from releasing firmware updates for the DVD-3939CI? They've already got our money? :rolleyes:

yeah, I don't understand it either. What could be keeping Denon USA from releasing firmware updates for the DVD-3939CI? The unit has been in consumers hands now going on 1 year.

I agree. :(

This lackluster customer service makes me weary of investing 2 grand in their recently announced Blu-ray player.

I agree. :(

This lackluster customer service makes me weary of investing 2 grand in their recently announced Blu-ray player.
The only problem will be that the new blue-ray player's again will be one of the best players you can buy in quality at this moment and i beliefe they are the first players with 7.1 audio output.

The spec's looks really good to me.

just one bad thing on the players, No SACD and DVD-Audio output.

but who care's i still got the DVD-3930 for that part.
and i will post the firmware update's from the Europe Denon support site so you still can upgrade your player's firmware version.

Thats great to hear Dutchman01.
The 8284-07 update you posted is a very good firmware update for my USA 3930ci. I have had no problems with this firmware and only improvements (picture, sound, and bug is gone also) from your posted firmware.
Why Denon USA will not post the Euro updates for us here in the USA is a real bad mistake on Denon's part. However as long as you post the new firmware then i for one em very happy and completely satisfied with my 3930ci. And because of your good work i will buy Denon's blue-ray player. Now that i know you will post the firmware updates for the blue-ray player also.
Thank You.

I agree. :(

This lackluster customer service makes me weary of investing 2 grand in their recently announced Blu-ray player.
I have to laugh at the "Denon Owner's Club" on the US website. I quote:

"The Denon Owner's Club entitles you to:

* Priority information on new products
* Subscription to the exclusive Denon Dispatch newsletter
* Easy access to software downloads to keep your Denon up-to-date
* Access to exclusive Denon events and publications
* Special "Owner's Club" rewards and offers
* Coming soon: Priority email access to Denon Customer Support"

They have been saying that for at least the last two years when I purchased the AVR4806. I have received nothing that is promised as a member of the owner's club.

Especially relevant to the present discussion is offer #3: "Easy access to software downloads to keep your Denon up-to-date." :confused:

Oh well! I only have one thing to say: If you are dissatisfied with the US Denon customer service, join the club! :):)

* Easy access to software downloads to keep your Denon up-to-date
what down-load's?:D

what down-load's?:D

The ones you have to get off the web,
only available to Denon Europe customers :rolleyes:

Yeah...Denon CS sucks balls...I'm still waiting for a callback...3wks later...other than that I'm happy with my Denon gear...thankfully I got the issue resolved on my own

Called Denon USA, and they promised once again to have 3930CI firmware updates available on the web site "soon"...

We'll see. :D

Called Denon USA, and they promised once again to have 3930CI firmware updates available on the web site "soon"...

We'll see. :D

Why bother... just get the one here from Dutchman01

Why bother... just get the one here from Dutchman01
If Denon USA will going to post the Firmware's update's soon than the will exactly the same firmware's that i post here in the forum.

There will be exactly no difference between them.:)

If Denon USA will going to post the Firmware's update's soon than the will exactly the same firmware's that i post here in the forum.

There will be exactly no difference between them.:)

Maybe The US release will turn the 2930 and 3930 into HDMI version 1.3 bluray players.:D
In that case we will supply Ducthman with a copy.:D

I've watched about 60 movies now on my 3930. So far the machine has been flawless. And the image always Stunning. Never an artifact or glitch. My only complaint is the slowness of the player - negotiating menus and such. Sometimes painfully slow:( I guess no firmware will ever fix this. However most of the time I just put in a DVD and hit play. So it's not an issue. And again w/ such a stunning image - I'll live w/ it :)

John, I agree. I bought the DVD-3930CI maybe 5 months ago, and it strikes me that it comes off very sluggish. It definitely doesn't have the layer change delay that my old Sony did, but other stuff seems ridiculously slow:

1) Powering on the unit (I don't leave it in "standby" mode, I actually power down the unit with the small button). Seems like it takes a second+ before it'll respond to button commands.
2) Opening and closing the tray seems to take forever.
3) Even starting the play process seems to take forever. Transitioning between things seems to take a long time to load (ie. going from menu to playing or from playing to menu), etc.

Oh, and Denon seems to have disabled the old "Play-Stop-Play" sequence that would skip all the "crap" and just go right to the movie or main menu. Is there a different sequence for Denons?

Is this a "known" issue? That a firmware fixed?

Yep - invisible layer change is very nice w/ the Denon. One of the reasons I bought it. It's not perfect 100% of the time - but darn close to it.
The other sluggish stuff we have to live with (same w/ most HD-DVD and Blu-ray players)
As far as skipping the "crap" in the beginning - I find it largely depends on the disc. Don't know about the "Play-Stop-Play" sequencing.

Maybe The US release will turn the 2930 and 3930 into HDMI version 1.3 bluray players.:D
In that case we will supply Dutchman with a copy.:D


Whahaha, that would be very kind off you,

Let me know when the update is there.

:):):)I look out for it.:):):)


LOL

Question re Denon DVD-3930ci:

Is there any way to turn off or defeat the "downmixing" on the analog 2-channel "stereo" outputs?
My understanding is that the stereo output stage has the dual, parallel 1796 DACs on each channel.
Do the front left /right multi-channel outputs go through the same dual parallel 1796 DACs configuration or through separate single DACs and separate output stage?
If the "stereo" outputs have this advantage, it would be nice to be able to use those outputs for front left/right channels of mutli-channel!
But if you hooked up front left/right multi-channel cables to the stereo outputs and they would always have artefacts of other channels (center and left/right surround channels) mixed in, the situation is not good.
Any help to answer these questions is appreciated

Again a new Firmware is Out There for the DVD-3930 and DVD-3930 CI

firmware version: 8284-7 Date: 08.08.2007

Get the Firmware from this link below.

Extract the file and read the file 'Changelog and Instructions DVD3930 and DVD-3930CI' insite it before flashing the unit.

http://rapidshare.com/files/48023385/GEN8284-7_802_DVD3930CI_3930.zip
I downloaded this file onto a CD-R disk, but when I try to load it into my DVD 3930CI, I get a message saying, "Cannot Read this type of Disk. Insert another disk." I have tried this many times with the same result.
Also, when I try to extract the files to read, as you suggest, I get an error message from my Extraction Wizard saying, "Access Denied."
Any suggestions?:confused:

Are you using Nero to burn. If so extract the files to a new folder in My Documents name the folder remove the small file and leave the bigger file that is named D393SAVD.ROM. Now make sure you set Nero as you were told by the Dutchman01. Now add the folder to Nero and open folder and drag the big file to the left and drop. Now Nero should say 4.34 MB to burn. Now just burn it on a good quality CD-R at a slow speed. Now it should work.

Does anyone know how to confirm the audio frequency rate on the 2930 when playing a dvd-v such as Neil Young's "Crazy Horse At The Fillmore 1970"? I'm trying to confirm that I'm getting 24/96 but when pressing the Audio button, all I see is 2 Channel LPCM. Also, when I try to output via digital coax (as opposed to analog out), the audio is extremely distorted. I thought DVD-V allowed for audio playback via digital coax.

Yep - invisible layer change is very nice w/ the Denon. One of the reasons I bought it. It's not perfect 100% of the time - but darn close to it.
The other sluggish stuff we have to live with (same w/ most HD-DVD and Blu-ray players)
As far as skipping the "crap" in the beginning - I find it largely depends on the disc. Don't know about the "Play-Stop-Play" sequencing.

The sluggish stuff is bearable when you are watching a movie where it happens one time, but if you watch a TV series DVD where you go back to the menus a lot, it becomes a bit more painful.

Still, no new DVD-3930CI firmware upgrade for U.S. players. What's up with this?:( It's like they (Denon) don't give a crap either.

I look at that Oppo 980H thread and get jealous at all the thorough support they provide. This unit is barely a few months old and they have issued more than a few firmware upgrades and ton's of valuable operational information.

And the Oppo is only a $169.00 machine! (maybe that is the route we should have gone and saved major $$$ :()

Are you using Nero to burn. If so extract the files to a new folder in My Documents name the folder remove the small file and leave the bigger file that is named D393SAVD.ROM. Now make sure you set Nero as you were told by the Dutchman01. Now add the folder to Nero and open folder and drag the big file to the left and drop. Now Nero should say 4.34 MB to burn. Now just burn it on a good quality CD-R at a slow speed. Now it should work.
Thanks for the advice, which I followed to the letter, but it's still giving me the same "Cannot Play this Type of Disk" message. Has anyone else had that problem?

And the Oppo is only a $169.00 machine! (maybe that is the route we should have gone and saved major $$$ :()yeah, I understand the 980H (and other models) are very impressive in general for video and audio. However, I know Kal Rubinson (uses a 980 in one of his systems) mentions that while the 980's audio is good he did'nt think it sounded as good as the Denon (DVD-3910CI, DVD-2930CI or DVD-3930CI).

Here's a brief write-up on the new Denon DVD-2500BTCI BD machine shown at CEDIA 2007:
http://www.audioholics.com/news/trade-show-coverage/2007-cedia-expo/denon-blu-ray-transport

[QUOTE=WestCoastD;11596280]Still, no new DVD-3930CI firmware upgrade for U.S. players. What's up with this?:( It's like they (Denon) don't give a crap either.

QUOTE]


The -7 firmware is available, right here in this thread...

im looking into getting either the 2930 or the tosh xa2. can anyone comment on the stereo performance for ht (ie. 2 channel) between the 2?

looking for input from anyone who has owned both a pio 59avi and a denon 3930...

is the upscaling noticeably better on the denon than the pio?

fwiw, it will be hooked to a pio 150fd... the realta will scale to 1080p, which would allow me to go dot for dot on the input... however, i'm trying to figure out if that's really going to be a significant difference over feeding it 1080i from the 59avi and letting the display de-interlace...

looking for input from anyone who has owned both a pio 59avi and a denon 3930...

is the upscaling noticeably better on the denon than the pio?

fwiw, it will be hooked to a pio 150fd... the realta will scale to 1080p, which would allow me to go dot for dot on the input... however, i'm trying to figure out if that's really going to be a significant difference over feeding it 1080i from the 59avi and letting the display de-interlace...

This probably won't help you, but I've owned the 79avi. I now own the 2930, and the video performance on the Denon (to my eyes) is superior.

That said, I'm having issues with my 2930 lately, so I can't recommend it either.:(

shane

This probably won't help you, but I've owned the 79avi. I now own the 2930, and the video performance on the Denon (to my eyes) is superior.

That said, I'm having issues with my 2930 lately, so I can't recommend it either.:(

shane

I also moved from a Pioneer DV-79AVi to a Denon DVD-2930CI. On my 1080p display, the Denon's 1080i and 1080p output looks much better than the Pioneer's 1080i output. It really isn't a fair comparison, because the Pioneer is an all-around poor performer with regards to video quality.

I've had my 2930 for six months now and have yet to experience a single problem (knocks on wood). DVD-Video, DVD-Audio, and SACD discs have all played wonderfully. My only issue with the player is its sluggishness; though the Pioneer had the same problem. For what it's worth, I still keep my Denon's firmware up to date.

I have the 3930 and i'm looking to replace my Denon AVR 785 with something more musical. I need that for SACD and movies. I wonder what kind of pair will make the 3930 with Arcam AVR350 or 280. Does the SQ worth the money?

I can't answer your question completely but I may be able to come close.

For HT I run my 3930 through a Marantz receiver.
But I also hook it up to an Arcam A-85 integrated amp for 2 channel SACD & DVD-A.

Assuming my amp has the same sonic personality as the receivers you mention (don't know if that's a safe assumption or not) you should be fine. I think the Denon sounds great with my Arcam.
More revealing than I'm used to (I use an Arcam CD-82 for redbook) and somewhat leaner in the bass department, it also provides a level of detail that is very nice on the right recordings.

I can't answer your question completely but I may be able to come close.

For HT I run my 3930 through a Marantz receiver.
But I also hook it up to an Arcam A-85 integrated amp for 2 channel SACD & DVD-A.

Assuming my amp has the same sonic personality as the receivers you mention (don't know if that's a safe assumption or not) you should be fine. I think the Denon sounds great with my Arcam.
More revealing than I'm used to (I use an Arcam CD-82 for redbook) and somewhat leaner in the bass department, it also provides a level of detail that is very nice on the right recordings.

Thank's i will try this.

looking for input from anyone who has owned both a pio 59avi and a denon 3930...

is the upscaling noticeably better on the denon than the pio?

fwiw, it will be hooked to a pio 150fd... the realta will scale to 1080p, which would allow me to go dot for dot on the input... however, i'm trying to figure out if that's really going to be a significant difference over feeding it 1080i from the 59avi and letting the display de-interlace...
Hi, I've owned the Pioneer 969AVi (equivalent of the 59AVi) and now the 3930. In my opinion, the 3930 is a bit better picture wise and considerably better sound-wise.

Hi, I've owned the Pioneer 969AVi (equivalent of the 59AVi) and now the 3930. In my opinion, the 3930 is a bit better picture wise and considerably better sound-wise.

I do agree with this,

3930 give's better picture and a lot better sound quality.

It appears my second DVD-3930CI has kicked the bucket. My first unit died in April after one week of use. This one no longer plays anything. No matter what I put in, it's stuck on "loading". i can only eject the disc if i power the unit off and power it back on with the power (not standby) switch. The 3930 really sucks (and it's not thermal issues as i have it sitting out in the open).

It appears my second DVD-3930CI has kicked the bucketthat's just pathetic! Sorry this has happened again.

I was going to wait until the final outcome and then report, however, I finally got around to returning my DVD-3930CI unit back to the factory in New Jersey for service. It took me a while as I had to get physical help to remove the unit from my rack set-up, then re-pack it in it's original carton.

After becoming mostly frustrated dicking-around with Denon customer service over the phone (more than a few times) I decided to write a letter directly to Eric C. Evans, Chairman and CEO, D&M Holdings- Denon Electronics (USA). Essentially I explained my frustrations and that I only want to go through this customer service process once (not twice).

Two days later I got a response (really) from an operations manager Michele (who reports directly to the CEO). Michele explained that he was handed my letter and instructed to expedite my problem immediately. Consequently he issued a UPS pick-up request (to my front door) and had my unit shipped back to them (today). He said when he receives the unit he will personally place it on a technician's bench on that very same day (next week). Thereafter he would let me know the outcome- whether they will repair it, or replace it with a new unit (I'm hoping for a new unit).

Moreover, I'm hoping that this DVD player model (DVD-3930CI) will recieve more direct attention from the CEO to make sure any related problems and issues are handled thoroughly.

I hope they don't make a stink about the fact that my unit has the German firmware version loaded on it (due to Dutchman01's insistence), I wish I had not loaded it. It did'nt really fix or help it at all.

I will report back the outcome.

Also, I just bought (and recieved) a brand-new Oppo 980H player to use in the mean-time.

Very interesting. Yep I shudder at the thought of having to package and mail this behemoth across the country some day when it needs service. My 3930 (second unit) is still plugging along fine. I've only had one glitch so far. Which was; my screen suddenly turned very psychedelic looking w/ weird solarized colors. I cycled through the HDMI options and it suddenly cleared up. Weird. Been fine since.

Let us know what you think of the Oppo!!

Also, I just bought (and recieved) a brand-new Oppo 980H player to use in the mean-time.

Please let us know of your thoughts regarding sound quality compared to the 3930. I have the DV-980H and like to think it compares favorably to the more expensive players, but I have never owned one.

Chris

I shudder at the thought of having to package and mail this behemoth across the country some day when it needs service
actually I'm in a wheelchair (permanently), and while I'm very athletic and have good strength I don't have enough leverage (sitting-down) to lift a unit such as this out of my rack and re-pack it into a box. I have to get someone to come over to my place and do it for me. That's why all this has taken me this long- it's an extra hassle for me.


My 3930 (second unit) is still plugging along finethat's good to know.


Let us know what you think of the Oppo!!I definitely will once I get everything hooked-up.

Please let us know of your thoughts regarding sound quality compared to the 3930.
I definitely will.

Actually I got a response from Kal Rubinson a while back (who owns, both, a Denon DVD-3910 and an Oppo DV-980H, I believe). He said he thought the 980H yields impressive sound-quality, but he thought the Denon was still better. If I find the post I will place it here.


I have the DV-980H and like to think it compares favorably to the more expensive players, but I have never owned one.that's what I've read, I can't wait to test listen.:)

Actually I got a response from Kal Rubinson a while back (who owns, both, a Denon DVD-3910 and an Oppo DV-980H, I believe). He said he thought the 980H yields impressive sound-quality, but he thought the Denon was still better. If I find the post I will place it here.



This is what I would have anticipated.

The Oppo is a fabulous bargain and an excellent performer but to expect it to match the Denon is probably unrealistic, IMHO.
Dollar to dollar it probably walks all over the Denon. But that extra cash outlay has to get you something extra, even if it's small.

Wouldn't be suprised if it gets uncomfortably close though.

Wouldn't be suprised if it get's uncomfortably close though.exactly.

The higher-end Denon's (ie. DVD-3930CI)have more robust, discrete, separate, power-supply components. Also have separate 2-channel and multi-channel circuitry, etc.,...partly why they would yield more refined sound-quality.
http://www.audioholics.com/reviews/transports/dvd-players/denon-dvd-3930ci/comparison-of-products-build-quality

It will be interesting to see how Oppo moves forward in the design of their next-generation of products- if they create more robust, and discrete, audio section, etc.,...

that's just pathetic! Sorry this has happened again.

I was going to wait until the final outcome and then report, however, I finally got around to returning my DVD-3930CI unit back to the factory in New Jersey for service. It took me a while as I had to get physical help to remove the unit from my rack set-up, then re-pack it in it's original carton.

After becoming mostly frustrated dicking-around with Denon customer service over the phone (more than a few times) I decided to write a letter directly to Eric C. Evans, Chairman and CEO, D&M Holdings- Denon Electronics (USA). Essentially I explained my frustrations and that I only want to go through this customer service process once (not twice).

Two days later I got a response (really) from an operations manager Michele (who reports directly to the CEO). Michele explained that he was handed my letter and instructed to expedite my problem immediately. Consequently he issued a UPS pick-up request (to my front door) and had my unit shipped back to them (today). He said when he receives the unit he will personally place it on a technician's bench on that very same day (next week). Thereafter he would let me know the outcome- whether they will repair it, or replace it with a new unit (I'm hoping for a new unit).

Moreover, I'm hoping that this DVD player model (DVD-3930CI) will recieve more direct attention from the CEO to make sure any related problems and issues are handled thoroughly.

I hope they don't make a stink about the fact that my unit has the German firmware version loaded on it (due to Dutchman01's insistence), I wish I had not loaded it. It did'nt really fix or help it at all.

I will report back the outcome.

Also, I just bought (and recieved) a brand-new Oppo 980H player to use in the mean-time.

FIRST THING:

If you did want to downgrade your firmware back to the first firmware before you did send it back to Denon there's only one thing you did forget,

that's to Contact me and ask for that particilar firmware.

The firmware's are again NOT German; It's for all Units Over The World including yours.

Only Denon German does Give better Support to Customers at Whole Europe.

That's why only at there German site the firmware's are posted and not at other country's.


Second Thing:


Firmware Flashing is AGAIN at your OWN RISK, not mine.

That you did not see or hear improofments could be maybe that your unit was defect already or that something else is wrong with it.

The firmware upgraded drives works after the firmware upgrade's better than with the first firmware on it.

Denon USA did promise again to host the firmware's on the Denon USA Support Site but thats not done yet. if they are going to host the firmware's soon, they are hosting the same ones as i give the links for it in this forum.
100% exactly the same firmware's.


I know that you are not happy with this situation and your defect unit
please don't blame me.

We both can't be responible of a defect unit from day one.

And last,

Other people that did upgrade to the latest firmware are happy with it because it really did fix some bugs and give audio improofments.

Playing Copy protected CD's is one of the many fixed bugs:)

Dutchman01

One thing I noticed about Denon's European firmware update site was that I had to lie about the color of my 2930ci to get it to accept my serial number. I have a black unit, but when I enteded my serial number and selected "black" as the color, it was rejected. I tried "silver", and I got to the firmware download page. Btw, the most recent version is 8283-B dated August 8, 2007.

-- Dave

I know that you are not happy with this situation and your defect unit please don't blame meno, I'm not blaming you. My unit was already defective. The (German) firmware did'nt fix or make it worse.

However, I feel you should'nt insist on users loading the firmware when there are disclaimers as such (ie. "Firmware Flashing is AGAIN at your OWN RISK, not mine.").

Although, I know you have provided a lot of assistance to DVD-3930CI owners here.

no, I'm not blaming you. My unit was already defective. The (German) firmware did'nt fix or make it worse.

However, I feel you should'nt insist on users loading the firmware when there are disclaimers as such (ie. "Firmware Flashing is AGAIN at your OWN RISK, not mine.").

Although, I know you have provided a lot of assistance to DVD-3930CI owners here.

I can appreciate where you are coming from, but ultimately I think the responsibility of flashing lies with the end user...Only you can decide whether the risk is worth it. Just because someone encourages you to do something doesn't mean you have to.

I think you'll find that any product that is upgradeable via firmware will have a disclaimer stating that unless the upgrade is done by the service center, any malfunction or equipment failure will fall back on the end user. That's because there are inherent risks involved...such as a bad flash due to power failure, etc.

Best of luck with your 3930 and new Oppo.

I think the responsibility of flashing lies with the end user...Only you can decide whether the risk is worth it. Just because someone encourages you to do something doesn't mean you have to.yeah, you're absolutely right.

I was mostly referring to recommending users to download firmware that is not "officially" approved for their respective player models (a potential breach of factory warranty). I don't have a problem taking a risk loading "approved" firmware.

Thanks

yeah, you're absolutely right.

I was mostly referring to recommending users to download firmware that is not "officially" approved for their respective player models (a potential breach of factory warranty). I don't have a problem taking a risk loading "approved" firmware.

Thanks

Don't sweat it. I think you're covered since you already wrote a letter. Denon will no doubt make sure you are a happy customer.

no, I'm not blaming you. My unit was already defective. The (German) firmware did'nt fix or make it worse.

However, I feel you should'nt insist on users loading the firmware when there are disclaimers as such (ie. "Firmware Flashing is AGAIN at your OWN RISK, not mine.").

Although, I know you have provided a lot of assistance to DVD-3930CI owners here.


If i do not say that "flashing is at your own riks" and something goes wrong when they are flashing the unit like the power on the unit goed down or network connection lost when connected to a router all users here will blaming me for not warning them of the risk of flashing.

When you read all of the flashing manuals at the denon site of all the products they have, on all support site's they also warning everyone, why should i not warn you?

No matter what you do flashing is always a risk.
it doesn't have to be your own fault when it goes wrong.
What if the power cable in your street goes broke at the moment you are flasing because of someone is working in the steet on the local power cable's.!!! Yes, flasing is always a risk all is the risk very low.

For you i hope they send soon a new unit to u and after you got it tell us what firmware is on the brand new unit, please let us also know the date when the new unit is build.

Very good chance you got the latest firmware i do post here on the brand new 3930 without needing to flash your unit by your self.

It proofs than how bad the US Denon Support will be for all other people because of not hosting the firmware's on the support site.:)

I don't think Denon USA cares if you've upgraded the firmware. I had upgraded my 2930 with the f/w from the Denon Germany site and then had it repaired by them this summer. Came back with the same f/w and still region-unlocked.

I have a Dennon 3930ci which I bought about three months ago. Overall it's been a huge improvement over my very old Sony 7700, albiet much slower in disc loading, etc. I run digital/optical out to my Emotiva DMC-1/MPS-1 and 720p/HDMI out to my Panasonic TH-50PHD8 so I'm not using any of the D/A capabilities.

Overall I've been very pleased except that after the 3930ci has been running a while I've noticed faint white speckling appearing and disappearing all over the display. This speckling does not appear with my XBOX Elite 360. I've swapped cables and card slots on the Panasonic and unfortunately it looks like the problem follows the 3930ci. Thus, this may be a thermal issue with the 3930ci (though it is in a mostly open enclosure).

Has anyone else experienced this issue? Thanks in advance for your help!

Casey

I don't think Denon USA cares if you've upgraded the firmware. I had upgraded my 2930 with the f/w from the Denon Germany site and then had it repaired by them this summer. Came back with the same f/w and still region-unlocked.that's good to know, thanks.

What was the main problem(s) with your unit?

I have a Dennon 3930ci which I bought about three months ago. I run digital/optical out to my Emotiva DMC-1/MPS-1. I'm not using any of the D/A capabilities.

I've noticed faint white speckling appearing and disappearing all over the displayI've never experienced any "white speckling" in my experiences. Is this a very noticeable, or obvious, occurance? Or do you have to pay close attention?

Also, I have to ask, how is audio performance (with music sources) using the DVD-3930CI with the Emotiva DMC-1/MPS-1 combination? Have you done any extensive 2-channel and multi-channel test-listening? I've considered going for one of their amps.

I've never experienced any "white speckling" in my experiences. Is this a very noticeable, or obvious, occurance? Or do you have to pay close attention?

You have to pay reasonably close attention but not fanatically. If you look for the speckling it's very obvious.

Also, I have to ask, how is audio performance (with music sources) using the DVD-3930CI with the Emotiva DMC-1/MPS-1 combination? Have you done any extensive 2-channel and multi-channel test-listening? I've considered going for one of their amps.

I am very impressed with the Emotiva equipment and service. It was a chunk of change to shell out but it's so much better than my previous receiver (Yamaha VX-1400) and the Denon 3808ci that I demoed briefly in August before it suffered infant mortality and the power supply went out. My housemate and I are both amazed at how much of a difference the electronics made since we've both been mostly of the school of thought that if the amplifier can faithfully reproduce the input signal there shouldn't be much difference. But there is a huge difference and I'm very happy to have spent the money. I am happily rediscovering the music in my collection again.

Casey

that's good to know, thanks.

What was the main problem(s) with your unit?

It started having problems playing regular video DVD's that other players could play fine. Not sure what was fixed but it's working fine now! :)

WestCoastD:
What do you think of your new Oppo??? (vs your 3930)

WestCoastD:
What do you think of your new Oppo??? (vs your 3930)to be honest I have'nt taken it out of the box yet, I'm still contemplating how to physically fit it into my rack system. My system (racks and speakers) are currently partially disconnected and moved out of their normal position. I'm hoping Denon has my (DVD-3930CI) player back very soon, I'm trying to avoid having to move everything around twice.

Otherwise, I'm very impressed with Oppo's customer service and product packaging, quite a presentation, makes me feel good about Oppo as a company. I'll definitely report back here once I'm able to do some test-listening (especially having both DVD-3930CI and DV-980H integrated into one system). One thing that's very intriguing to me is that these Oppo players have USB 2.0, guys are interfacing external hard-drives full of music and assorted files.

You have to pay reasonably close attention but not fanatically. If you look for the speckling it's very obvious.

How close to the screen do you have to be to notice this? How long is the HDMI cable run from the DVD player to the display?

I can't seem to output SACD on the 3930 to my receiver McIntosh MX-119 using a digital RCA cable.

In my typical setup, I play DVDs with video output using HDMI to a Sony XBR and with audio output using digital RCA to the MX119. This plays great with 5.1 channel surround, no problem. Or I play a CD in the 3930 with output via RCA to the receiver, no problem.

If I put in a SACD disc into the 3930CI, the blue SACD lights up on the 3930 display panel. No sound on my MX119, however. I have tried a few things to troubleshoot with no luck. I can output SACD using analog 2 channel to my receiver, that works OK. I'd like the digital RCA so I listen to SACD 5.1 channel surround. The Denon setup menu does not seem to have settings specific to SACD.

What's the trick? Thanks.

I can't seem to output SACD on the 3930 to my receiver McIntosh MX-119 using a digital RCA cable. What's the trick?I believe you can only play multi-channel audio (DVD-A/SACD) via the 5.1ch analog OUT's, or HDMI (DSD). Although playback of SACD multi-channel tracks may be limited via-HDMI as DVD-3930CI manual is confusing- read through charts and paragraphs on page 11 and 12. Maybe someone else here can confirm? I thought HDMI v1.1 handles both SACD/DVD-A?

Otherwise I've been using 5.1ch analog OUT's for, both, SACD/DVD-A and it works beautiful.

you can't... only by analog connections (or digital by denon link to a receiver that would know what to do with it)...

sacd requires hdmi 1.2...

Thanks, WestCoastD and ccotenj. I'll get some more interconnects so I can use the 5.1 analog outs. In the meantime, two channel analog out sounds quite good.

I'm hoping some of the more experienced users in this thread can help with a problem that I have just encountered.

I have had a 3930ci connected to a 3805 via Denon Link (and analog for zone 2) for about 6 months. This weekend, I noticed that I'm getting drop outs when listening to regular CD's via the Denon Link connection. I don't have the problem when listening to SACD, DVD videos, or DVD-A. It's happening with multiple CD's (both stereo and multi-channel). When there is a drop out, I can actually see the Denon Link and Connection indicator flash off and then back on.

Does anyone have any idea what could be causing this? (I'm guessing/hoping it's some 'simple' setting issue)

Dave

I'm getting drop outs when listening to regular CD's via the Denon Link connection. I don't have the problem when listening to SACD, DVD videos, or DVD-A.that's odd it would happen with regular (redbook) CD's and not other disc-type's?


It's happening with multiple CD's (both stereo and multi-channel)you have multi-channel (redbook) CD's?

that's odd it would happen with regular (redbook) CD's and not other disc-type's?

It gets odder. It didn't happen today. But I didn't play any SACD or DVD's and started with a CD in the player at start up

you have multi-channel (redbook) CD's?


Yes, in this case I'm was listening to the Steve Miller Band 30th Anniversary Ed of Fly Like an Eagle. It lists both Stereo and MultiChannel (DTS).

Too much football today to play around...so, I'll read the manuals again and take 2 aspirin and call Denon in the morning...

I'm hoping some of the more experienced users in this thread can help with a problem that I have just encountered.

I have had a 3930ci connected to a 3805 via Denon Link (and analog for zone 2) for about 6 months. This weekend, I noticed that I'm getting drop outs when listening to regular CD's via the Denon Link connection. I don't have the problem when listening to SACD, DVD videos, or DVD-A. It's happening with multiple CD's (both stereo and multi-channel). When there is a drop out, I can actually see the Denon Link and Connection indicator flash off and then back on.

Does anyone have any idea what could be causing this? (I'm guessing/hoping it's some 'simple' setting issue)

Dave

I'm not entirely sure, but wasn't this problem possibly addressed by one of the firmware updates? I seem to remember reading something about that.

Do you have the most recent firmware installed?

Mitch

Also try pusing the Denon Link cable in to make sure its well seated.
I have had that happen several times before causing dropouts

you can't... only by analog connections (or digital by denon link to a receiver that would know what to do with it)...

sacd requires hdmi 1.2...


This is correct.

I've had my 3930 for about 6 months, and I am consistently very impressed with the picture and sound quality. But I have a concern regarding its handling of scratched, or at least less-than-perfect, DVD's.

In my experience, the 3930 seems unusually susceptable to scratches in DVD's. The typical DVD that I get from someplace like blockbuster or netflix will invariably lock up the player at some point during the movie. I can remove the disc, clean it thoroughly, reload it, and it usually manages to make it through the damaged part. Occasionally, the unit needs to be power cycled to get it to respond.

It doesn't seem to make any difference if I pre-clean the disc. This leads me to wonder if I have a heat problem or dirty environment problem. That said, the unit is in a clean closet, with good ventilation. No dust, pets, or smoking issues (the theater has an active electrostatic air cleaner installed on the A/C.)

I don't know whether to be frustrated with the 3930 or blockbuster. Could someone else comment on their experience with this unit's ability to handle damaged disks?

Minor rant: I've never quite understood how people manage to *mangle* the DVD's they rent to the degree they do - almost as if they're throwing them around the room, or using them as coasters or doggy chew toys. I almost never have skipping problems with DVD's I own.

-Reid

Some of the discs I rent from netflix are so scratched - that it looks like somebody used sandpaper on them! But the 3930 always plays them w/o a hitch. To me - this is one of the 3930's strongest attributes.

Some of the discs I rent from netflix are so scratched - that it looks like somebody used sandpaper on them! But the 3930 always plays them w/o a hitch. To me - this is one of the 3930's strongest attributes.

I have had the same problem with Netflix discs, but usually they play in most of my DVD players.

Unlike John, I have had problems with my 2930 reading heavily scratched discs, but I have found workarounds, like using one of my other DVD players.

A trend that I've noticed with this 3930/2930 forum is that some of us have had to upgrade firmwares several times to get closer and closer to the reliability that some other people have had right out of the box. I don't think that it's directly related to which firmware each person's unit was shipped with either. I wonder if there are some manufacturing issues that have made these firmware updates necessary to get all of the players functioning similarly?

Some people had SACD issues, when I had absolutely no SACD issues, just some DVD's not playing (including some pristine discs that worked on many other DVD players.) After a few upgrades, I started having the SACD problems that some people mentioned, but many of the DVD issues started going away. Luckily, the newest firmware seems to have fixed most of the tracking-off issues, and when I'm patient, it skips a few times on an SACD, then resyncs and the disc doesn't skip again during that playing.

It sounds to me like Denon found some manufacturing issues, and issued firmware updates to fix them, which screwed up other people's players, so they issued more updates, and it seems like the current firmware can pick between ranges to figure out which problems your player is haivng and compensate for it on-the-fly.

I don't really know if the 2930/3930's are smart enough to do this kind of thing, but I'd like to hear if anyone else is getting the same impression.

Mike

From what I've read (so far) the DVD-2930 seems to have been more stable than the DVD-3930. I think the DVD-3930 was rushed to market too soon (without robust enough unit-testing).

Overall I've been very pleased except that after the 3930ci has been running a while I've noticed faint white speckling appearing and disappearing all over the display. This speckling does not appear with my XBOX Elite 360. I've swapped cables and card slots on the Panasonic and unfortunately it looks like the problem follows the 3930ci. Thus, this may be a thermal issue with the 3930ci (though it is in a mostly open enclosure).

Has anyone else experienced this issue? Thanks in advance for your help!

Casey

Casey - if you do a search you'll find that I had the EXACT same problem as you with my 3930Ci. Works great at first, but they appear after an hour or so on HDMI, and progressive component (but not interlaced component). I had to send it into Denon for repair twice to get it finally resolved. The first time they just cleaned the laser and updated the firmware which did nothing. The second time I was much more explicit in how to reproduce it, including sending a disc along, and they ended up replacing some parts inside. I got the player back yesterday, and it looks good now. You're going to have to send it in.

Casey - if you do a search you'll find that I had the EXACT same problem as you with my 3930Ci. Works great at first, but they appear after an hour or so on HDMI, and progressive component (but not interlaced component). I had to send it into Denon for repair twice to get it finally resolved. The first time they just cleaned the laser and updated the firmware which did nothing. The second time I was much more explicit in how to reproduce it, including sending a disc along, and they ended up replacing some parts inside. I got the player back yesterday, and it looks good now. You're going to have to send it in.

mr-ben

What parts are repaced insite your 3930?
What firmware version do you have right now?

mr-ben

What parts are repaced insite your 3930?
What firmware version do you have right now?

The firmware that it came back with the first time was 8284-7, but I haven't checked it since the second repair. Since it was less than 2 weeks apart I assume it's the same, although I'll check and post if it's not. Unfortunately the bottom of the packing slip is cut off right where the part number is, so I can't make it out. I don't mind calling if you really want to know.

The firmware that it came back with the first time was 8284-7, but I haven't checked it since the second repair. Since it was less than 2 weeks apart I assume it's the same, although I'll check and post if it's not. Unfortunately the bottom of the packing slip is cut off right where the part number is, so I can't make it out. I don't mind calling if you really want to know.

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


Below my unit info:

BE 8284-7
Make Day 802
DSP 8250
IP 070518

Please tell me what your display shows right now.

Quote:
Originally Posted by nachin
Originally Posted by Dutchman01
For ALL Europe Customers off the DVD-3930 (NOT 3930CI)

There is a problem with the Progressive Auto modus and PAL dvd's.
De-interlacing is not right with the unit it has some artefacts on the picture and some minnor other progressive mode bug's.

This problem was known for some time but a fix was not there........
Denon and Realta did need some time how to fix this problem and make a solution for it.

ALL EUROPE MODELS ARE HAVING THOSE PROBLEMS.

[color=Yellow]Do you think it will be a firmware update for that issue?

Nacho.
Yes there is a firmware solution for it.
Only thing you must do is bring it in to Denon where the technical staff wil upgrade the Realta prosessor software insite the unit.

Can't do it by your self. ONLY the Europe model 3930 do have this option.
Thanks for your comment, Dutchman. I will call Denon and ask about the PAL issue. That is, I will call when I have 30 minutes to wait on hold. :)
"way below the limit" is a nice way to say it! :)

I spoke with Denon in New Jersey. The 2930CI also has this problem with PAL version DVDs. The unit must be sent to the factory to have the issue corrected. They don't recommend it unless you are having a problem.

I doubt I will return my unit unless I have a major problem. It is too much a hassle and risk to ship the unit out never knowing when it may be returned.

well, my 3930 is going back to service with Denon for the second time. It died after one week when i bought it. Now it will not go past the "loading" phase unless I either reinitialize it or power it down for 24 hours. Put back my relatively new Sony DVP3100ES player and was kind of shocked how crappy it looked compared to the 3930.

Let's see how long before i get it back from Denon. As much as I really like Denon products, their reliability and technical support group really sucks BIG time. I won't be buying anything more from them that's for sure.

As much as I really like Denon products, their reliability and technical support group really sucks BIG time. I won't be buying anything more from them that's for sure.yeah, really makes me wonder about considering their new soon-to-be-released DVD-3800BDCI player (for $2000.00).................
http://gizmodo.com/gadgets/denon-line-show-2007/denon-introduces-2000-dvd+3800bdci-blu+ray-player-281915.php

yeah, really makes me wonder about considering their new soon-to-be-released DVD-3800BDCI player (for $2000.00).................
http://gizmodo.com/gadgets/denon-line-show-2007/denon-introduces-2000-dvd+3800bdci-blu+ray-player-281915.php

I think the price of that player acts as its own deterrent for most of us. :D

Since they are just entering the market for high definition playback components, I wouldn't be surprised if Denon put a lot more time into research and development for this player. That said, I will still wait for at least a couple of months of user reports before considering this machine.

the problem is Denon moved all their production lines to China from Japan on their high end stuff. Ever since their quality has suffered. When you pay big bucks, you expect a more robust unit. I did not expect to pay $1500 for a 28 lb brick.

Hi everyone,

I have a Denon 3930 and it's without a question a fantastic DVD but, and it's a big but I have a major problem with burned disks. I have in my collection quite a few movies that I burned myself (on different kinds of media btw), and the Denon just won't accept many of them. It reads them but during the movie it freezes the picture frequenly and makes the viewing virtually impossible.

Any suggestions? (is there a a firmware that deals with it?)


Thanks.

Hi everyone,

I have a Denon 3930 and it's without a question a fantastic DVD but, and it's a big but I have a major problem with burned disks. I have in my collection quite a few movies that I burned myself (on different kinds of media btw), and the Denon just won't accept many of them. It reads them but during the movie it freezes the picture frequenly and makes the viewing virtually impossible.

Any suggestions? (is there a a firmware that deals with it?)


Thanks.

I've got the 2930 and no such issues. It will read pretty damn near every single layer media, but dual layer media can be tricky. I use Verbatim exclusively for dual layer.

Also how are you burning the discs? If you are using DVD+R you can increase the compatibility rate by "bit setting" the booktype to DVD-ROM in your burning app. I recommend you check out ImgBurn for burning ISO or VOB files to DVD.

What type of burner are you using?

I spoke with Denon in New Jersey. The 2930CI also has this problem with PAL version DVDs. The unit must be sent to the factory to have the issue corrected. They don't recommend it unless you are having a problem.

I doubt I will return my unit unless I have a major problem. It is too much a hassle and risk to ship the unit out never knowing when it may be returned.

In this case if the 2930CI does have The Pal Problem the 3930CI also has that bug.


I was not informed about other players than the europe one's.


All i can say now,

Contact your Denon Dealer,

They upgrade it free of charge.
Picture quality is a lot better after the upgrade.
I do not have problems with any disk anymore after all the upgrade's done.

Audio cd burnt works great original cd's no problem

DVD movies burnt on DVD+ and - no problems playing.
Original Movies also no problems playing.

SACD and DVD-Audio disks also no problems here.

All i can say after they upgrade's it got, they did bring out the unit a little to urly.

The unit did works better and better after the latest firmware upgrade

In this case if the 2930CI does have The Pal Problem the 3930CI also has that bug.


Thanks Dutchman.
How bad was the PAL problem? I do have some PAL DVDs. I will check them carefully for any problems. As I understand you the problem is with deinterlacing. Should I expect to encounter the problem if I upscale a DVD to 720P? I have a 1080i TV.
And BTW, Thanks for your firmware updates!

Below my unit info:

BE 8284-7
Make Day 802
DSP 8250
IP 070518

Please tell me what your display shows right now.

My display exactly matches yours. I believe the IP was updated with my most recent service. Mine is the US-version 3930Ci.

My display exactly matches yours. I believe the IP was updated with my most recent service. Mine is the US-version 3930Ci.

That nice that you did got from denon service the latest firmware and the new de-interlacing firmware for the realta chip.

THAT PROOFS THAT DENON USA HAS THE LATEST FIRMWARE'S!!!

WHY DO THEY NOT PLACE IT ON the DENON SUPPORT SITE??????????????

I really don't know,

I'm glad Denon Europe and Japan Support does there job a lot better den the rest of the world.


Has it something to do with money???
Gess that rest of the world looks a little ****ed up.
(my opinion)
I got no furter questions about this anymore.

It's a shame that you must bring in your unit for the firmware update's they install with a big secret and tell everyone on the phone that there's no firmware update.

Lucky i live in europe.

What was the link to the latest 3930 firmware again?
Thank you.

SACD and DVD-Audio disks also no problems here {allsop4now: for 2930CI}


I returned my 2930 (Euro version) because of a defect in the bass management using the analog outputs. The shop could reproduce it on their own player with various other 5.1 SACD.

The bug is as follows: Enable bass management and set all speakers to small. For 5.1 SACD there is a prominent audible distortion. For instance, "Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon" first track at the beginning. Each drum beat ends in a distortion. I, as well as the shop on their own player, reproduced this distortion. They claimed that setting front speakers to small was a misconfiguration :D

Edit: My bad, I misquoted. Does the 3930 have the above bug?

What was the link to the latest 3930 firmware again?
Thank you.



http://rapidshare.com/files/48023385/GEN8284-7_802_DVD3930CI_3930.zip

hi everyone, i have the 3930ci ( which i think is a GREAT PLAYER). Movies upconverted on my 70inch jvc dila looks flawless. But lately i have been having an hdmi issue with the unit. Do you think this latest firmware with fix my problem with HDMI compadibility? What happens is that the player wont show video if connected like this ( 3930ci--> 4306--->jvc 70fh96) It used to work , and now it wont. I tried all different kinds of cables. Then one day it worked again , and now it doest. But it will always work going directly to the TV. But i like it going to the reciever first. Can someone help me? I called denon awhile back , and the tech is like its a handshaking problem. hdmi is like that , sorry. BUT ITS NOT HANDSHAKING WITH DENONS OWN PRODUCT I SAID. hes like sorry. uggghhh , i still like the products though.

http://www.cnet.co.uk/i/c/blg/cat/dvdplayers/denon_3930.jpg

It's a cool gadget huh..
The player exclusively features Realta T2 HQV processing that effectively converts and upscales standard-definition DVDs to 1080p resolution, which promises unsurpassed picture performance from your existing film collection -- especially using the latest 'Full HD' flat-screen displays.

i have the black version. Did the latest firmware upgrade last night. Thanx to all who helped to get this information. USA Denon needs to do a firmware upgrade on their customer service, lol. That **** would be like 10 DVDs. HAHA. I still love my 3930ci, awsome upconverstion to 1080i , my tv takes care of the rest(1080i to 1080p). The new Denon bluray player should be a hit too. I wouldnt doubt that it will be the best bluray player and match the DVD performance of the 3930ci. I think it uses the sames realta chip.

http://rapidshare.com/files/48023385/GEN8284-7_802_DVD3930CI_3930.zip

Just to be sure, this file is the latest firmware for the 3930CI USA version?

Don't want to brick my unit. :)

Ruin

Since Denon USA knows that Japan and Europe are posting the
firmware for this unit, why should they bother?

Less risk of stupid customers tanking their units by upgrading incorrectly, etc.

Since Denon USA customer support is already thin, not posting the current firmware just reduces their workload.

yes this firmware is for all Denon 3930 units worldwide.
Many have updated with no problems, and even the USA units
come with it pre-installed.

Since Denon USA knows that Japan and Europe are posting the firmware for this unit, why should they bother? Aaahh, that's part of the problem. Every time I have spoken with Denon USA tech support, they have told me that no such firmware upgrades exist and that "if they do" they are not for models sold in the US. Of course, since I have updated both my AVR-4603 and DVD-3930CI using software provided by Dutchman, I know this is not true.

Every time I have spoken with Denon USA tech support, they have told me that no such firmware upgrades exist and that "if they do" they are not for models sold in the USexactly the same thing I experienced, this is pathetic on the part of Denon (USA), I think. As big, and respected, a company as Denon is why they would operate this way is beyond me?

While the DVD-3930CI is an exceptionally good performing player, when properly functioning, it is well documented that there are a significant quantity of owners experiencing problem and failures. Several brand-new units have been returned and replaced. Many have consecutive returns to customer service with repeated failures. And on top of all this they've yet to "officially" offer the latest firmware upgrades.

Not to get off-topic, but what really cracks me up is how arrogant their unit pricing is. In the "ListenUp" arcticle/interview Jeff Talmadge responds to the interviewer in regards to the $2000.00 price-tag on the up-coming, highly touted, Denon DVD-3800BDCI BluRay product (quote):
"The player itself has a retail of $1,999 SRP, so a $400 premium over the DVD-3930CI. I know some people see $1,999 and think, "There's going to be $299 Blu-rays at Christmas. What are you doing?" Well, we've never followed that normal logic ever in our history, and of course you know that""
http://www.listenup.com/content/partner_stores/denon/talmadge.aug.07.php

I think the fact that the DVD-3800BDCI, to many dissapointed followers, will not have SACD or DVD-A capability will probably be a good thing as it will limit player complexities and potential problems/failures. But $2000.00 (where is the "normal" logic)?

exactly the same thing I experienced, this is pathetic on the part of Denon (USA), I think. As big, and respected, a company as Denon is why they would operate this way is beyond me?

While the DVD-3930CI is an exceptionally good performing player, when properly functioning, it is well documented that there are a significant quantity of owners experiencing problem and failures. Several brand-new units have been returned and replaced. Many have consecutive returns to customer service with repeated failures. And on top of all this they've yet to "officially" offer the latest firmware upgrades.

Not to get off-topic, but what really cracks me up is how arrogant their unit pricing is. In the "ListenUp" arcticle/interview Jeff Talmadge responds to the interviewer in regards to the $2000.00 price-tag on the up-coming, highly touted, Denon DVD-3800BDCI BluRay product (quote):
"The player itself has a retail of $1,999 SRP, so a $400 premium over the DVD-3930CI. I know some people see $1,999 and think, "There's going to be $299 Blu-rays at Christmas. What are you doing?" Well, we've never followed that normal logic ever in our history, and of course you know that""
http://www.listenup.com/content/partner_stores/denon/talmadge.aug.07.php

I think the fact that the DVD-3800BDCI, to many dissapointed followers, will not have SACD or DVD-A capability will probably be a good thing as it will limit player complexities and potential problems/failures. But $2000.00 (where is the "normal" logic)?

I tought the same about this,

The DVD-3800BDCI is defently not the replacement device for the dvd-3930 when it comes to the old formats (CD SACD DVD-AUDIO).

Second this is for Denon the first models they offer.
High price and less fature's.

I wait for the second or 3th batch players.
I can wait for 2 years.
let's see what the players from denon then offers.

Second i do think the DVD-2930CI and DVD-3930CI will be replaced for the last time for a DVD-2940CI and the DVD-3940CI model next year.

Let's see what denon will do next year and also how the new blue-ray player will perform in the tests.

Just to be sure, this file is the latest firmware for the 3930CI USA version?
Don't want to brick my unit. :)
Ruin

Yes, yes,
We don't give you old or wrong **** here:):):)

Firmware version: 8284-7 Date: 08.08.2007

Changelog:

* When "Track Skip Fwd/Rev" button is pushed early two times or more when
the CD-DA disc is PAUSE, "Play" button is not accepted;
The repeat function was turned on when the SACD disc had stopped and it played,
or the SACD disc is played by the All Repeat function.
Afterwards, the repeat function doesn't operate when stopping and playing.
* DVD-AUDIO cannot be played.
When "Right" of "Cursor" or "Left" is pushed when "Page" of "Image quality
adjustment screen" is displayed, it freezes it by "Gamma display".
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Get the Firmware from this link below.

Extract the file and read the file 'Changelog and Instructions DVD3930 and DVD-3930CI' insite it before flashing the unit.

http://rapidshare.com/files/48023385/GEN8284-7_802_DVD3930CI_3930.zip

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Things are getting better and better with the 3930

Here the changelog from the past firmware versions.

changelog firmware version: 8284-6

* improvement of CD playback via HDMI.

changelog firmware version: 8284-5

* improvement of remote control sensor.

* fixing of memory capabilities.

changelog firmware version: 8284-3

* general improvement of playback, improvement of compatibility to not standard conformed CD's.

Update's above are also included in the latest 8284-7 firmware.

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

How to check your firmware on the DVD-3930 and DVD-3930CI

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

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Display Info on my DVD-3930

BE 8284-7
Make Day 802
DSP 8250
IP 070518

(Your IP number could be lower becouse i have get at the Denon Service Station a Software Upgrade on the Realta HQV Processor.)


Have a Nice Patch Day.

Dutchman.

Thanks for the confirmation!

Ruin

Thanks for the confirmation!

Ruin

Your welcome.:)

Aaahh, that's part of the problem. Every time I have spoken with Denon USA tech support, they have told me that no such firmware upgrades exist and that "if they do" they are not for models sold in the US. Of course, since I have updated both my AVR-4603 and DVD-3930CI using software provided by Dutchman, I know this is not true.


What all you USA and Canada people can do is as follow,

Send a big letter to the President from the Denon company.

With a autograph of all the people here or people you know off having denon products.

Only that man has the power to talk with the people from denon and tell them that service and support has to be a lot better than it is now.

give them the link to this forum, give him the link europe denon support site and usa support site.

Explane all.

I THINK THAT SUPPORT FROM DENON USA WILL BE AT HIGH LEVEL AGAIN, after this big letter.


just my 2 cents.

Updated firmware last night to -7. No issues except that make sure you burn the folder with the upgrade file to the CD. If you just have the file name on the CD mine would not work. Delete the instructions from the folder the downlad created when you extract the file.

Hello,

I see a lot of discussion about the latest firmware for the 3930 - does it use the same firmware as the 2930? I have a 2930 and have firmware BE 8283-A - no idea what the latest one is since most posts I see are from people with the 3930. I put in my 2930 SN and tried both black and silver on the European website and neither recognized my SN.

Hello,

I see a lot of discussion about the latest firmware for the 3930 - does it use the same firmware as the 2930? I have a 2930 and have firmware BE 8283-A - no idea what the latest one is since most posts I see are from people with the 3930. I put in my 2930 SN and tried both black and silver on the European website and neither recognized my SN.

AVS member konoyaro linked his upload of the 2930's latest firmware in this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=11283214&postcount=2842). Take his words of caution under consideration before attempting the update.

Thanks for letting me know so just to confirm, the latest version is 8283-B?

As far as I know, it is the 2930's latest firmware. I believe it was released just a few months ago.

I appreciate it. I also appreciate the person who made the firmware available to the rest of us - update process works well.

I took the instructions that Dutchman01 posted, Thanks!
I read the following:
Make Day 305
DSP 8250
IP 060802
BE 8284-5

I have the same problem with my 3930CI freezing with burned DVDs. These DVD's were working at first but this problem started about a month ago. I'm trying to follow what everyone is posting. Does the 8284-7 upgrade solve this problem? I called Denon but they jumped on the fact that they were burned DVDs and said they don't guarantee compatibility even though they were working.:confused: I tried to download from Dutchman’s posted link but the file was corrupt. Could someone post it again with instructions on how to do the upgrade? If this isn’t the case do you have any suggestions on how to get Denon to honor their warrantee? Thanks for your help.

I took the instructions that Dutchman01 posted, Thanks!
I read the following:
Make Day 305
DSP 8250
IP 060802
BE 8284-5

I have the same problem with my 3930CI freezing with burned DVDs. These DVD's were working at first but this problem started about a month ago. I'm trying to follow what everyone is posting. Does the 8284-7 upgrade solve this problem? I called Denon but they jumped on the fact that they were burned DVDs and said they don't guarantee compatibility even though they were working.:confused: I tried to download from Dutchman’s posted link but the file was corrupt. Could someone post it again with instructions on how to do the upgrade? If this isn’t the case do you have any suggestions on how to get Denon to honor their warrantee? Thanks for your help.

please try again,

file is not corrupt did check a few minutes back

or use other computer.

Use winrar or winzip.

Which firmware is newer for my DVD-2930? 8283-7 or 8283-B

Thanks, Kirk

8283-B is the latest firmware for the 2930.

Thanks Dutchman I got the download.

Do you know anything about the problem regarding the recorded DVDs freezing up?

Thanks Dutchman I got the download.

Do you know anything about the problem regarding the recorded DVDs freezing up?

Only bad ripped dvd movies are a problem here in my player.

The rip a lot of the disc but menu not good modded so it looks for something thats not there anymore.

For the rest its working like a sharm here no problems at any media. or CDR DVD+R or DVD-R or DVD-RW and lst DVD+RW

hi everyone, been lurking on this forum for months and finally pulled the trigger on a 2930. so far, it has been great. i was just wondering if anyone uses its picture settings or do you all only use those from your calibrated tv? also, is it just me or does the 2930 have a horrible layer change? all of my movies have showed a very obvious and annoying layer change that my oppo never did. does anyone else experience this?

hi everyone, been lurking on this forum for months and finally pulled the trigger on a 2930. so far, it has been great. i was just wondering if anyone uses its picture settings or do you all only use those from your calibrated tv? also, is it just me or does the 2930 have a horrible layer change? all of my movies have showed a very obvious and annoying layer change that my oppo never did. does anyone else experience this?

I hardly touched the picture adjustment settings. For my particular display, my only adjustments of note are to the IRE and edge enhancement settings. I increased the edge enhancement by three notches, which seemed to offer the best balance of high detail and no added visible edge enhancement artifacts.

As for layer change pause, I get no pause with my 2930CI; the change has been completely seamless on every DVD I've watched with this player. While I can't speak for other 2930CI owners, something seems to be wrong with your player if it pauses during a layer change.

I've had my 3930 for about 6 months, and I am consistently very impressed with the picture and sound quality. But I have a concern regarding its handling of scratched, or at least less-than-perfect, DVD's.

In my experience, the 3930 seems unusually susceptable to scratches in DVD's. The typical DVD that I get from someplace like blockbuster or netflix will invariably lock up the player at some point during the movie. I can remove the disc, clean it thoroughly, reload it, and it usually manages to make it through the damaged part. Occasionally, the unit needs to be power cycled to get it to respond.

It doesn't seem to make any difference if I pre-clean the disc. This leads me to wonder if I have a heat problem or dirty environment problem. That said, the unit is in a clean closet, with good ventilation. No dust, pets, or smoking issues (the theater has an active electrostatic air cleaner installed on the A/C.)



Since posting this, I've been paying more attention to when these freeze-up's are happening, and I think I'm seeing a trend: the player tends to freeze between 50-70 minutes into the DVD - on almost every disk I put into it. Doesn't seem to matter whether the disk is clean or not. It also doesn't seem to be related to how long the player has been on - the same thing happens on a second DVD (not that I watch two movies in a row very often...). Once I've unloaded the disk, reloaded it and resumed the movie, the player usually makes it through the section, and no more skipping/freezing problems (although there were some notable exceptions to this - I had to skip whole chapters in "300" and "THX" after repeatedly trying to reload - and both disks were pretty clean).

I'm beginning to think its either a transport problem, or related to layer change. Both problems would tend to manifest themselves at a somewhat consistent time from disk to disk.

If its a transport problem, I'm guessing the unit goes back to the factory for repair. But if its a layer change problem, I would think a firmware update might potentially be able to fix it.

So, two questions:
Has anyone else seen this behavior?

Do the firmware updates fix layer change problems?


I'd really prefer to not ship this thing back to Denon.

-Reid

There should NEVER be a layer change pause w/ either the 2930 or 3930. Trust me. I'm a fanatic about layer changes. If your machine shows a layer change - it is in need of repair. There is an exception to the rule but it is very rare (a couple of the Bond movies show a layer change because they were mastered incorrectly).

When hooking up my Denon 2930CI to my Samsung HLS 6187W, I get the mode not supported message. What does that mean?

I hooked it up using Component and it worked.

Any thoughts!

I think that means that your Samsung cannot accept either 480i/p through the HDMI port.

I had that same message when hooking up my STB via HDMI to my Sammy, I got around it by setting the STB to ignore that 1 format.

I have downloaded the new firmware for the 2930CI but I can't find the instructions for updating the firmware. Can someone share those with me?

Also, is there a way to output 1080i over component for non-copy protected discs? I understand that copy protected discs are limited to 480p.

I found and have transcribed the instructions for how how to upgrade the firmware:

1. Turn on the player with the small On/Off button while simultaneously pressing the PLAY and SKIP FORWARD buttons. The display should now say INITIALIZE.
2. Open the DVD tray and insert the CDR containing the new firmware and close. The update should start automatically.
3. The display will show a sequence of reading the disc, erasing the existing firmware, writing the new firmware, and then verifying the new firmware. This process may take several minutes. Be patient. When the display says COMPLETE, the tray will open automatically.
4. Remove the CDR, BUT DO NOT CLOSE THE TRAY.
5. Turn off the player with the small On/Off button.
6. Turn on the player with the small On/Off button while simultaneously pressing the PLAY and SKIP FORWARD buttons.
7. The player should say INITIALIZE again.
8. Turn off the player again with the small On/Off button.
9. Finally, turn the player on with the small On/Off button and set up the player with your custom settings.

Still interested if it is possible to output 1080i over component for NON-copy protected DVDs.

do you know exactly what the 2930 firmware fixes? im debating if i should do it.

do you know exactly what the 2930 firmware fixes? im debating if i should do it.

if it ain't broke don't fix it.

Regardless of cost, would you Denon owners buy the DVD-3930CI and a stand alone HD-DVD or Blu-ray player, or would you want an all-in-one unit that combined the best of the 3930 and any high-def player?

Do you think it's possible the DVD/CD half of such a universal player would operate as well as the 3930, or would it be as sluggish as most of the HD-DVD and Blu-ray players out there are for DVD's and CD's?

I'm trying to decide if I should wait for Denon's proposed universal player that does everything the 3930 does in addition to being a HD-DVD and Blu-ray player, or if it would be best to keep the standard def and hi-def sides separate. Part of me wants one deck that does it all, and part thinks I should buy a 3930 for CD's and DVD's (of which I have hundreds that I don't plan on replacing) and get a couple decent and affordable Blu-ray and HD-DVD players on the side. I just bought an AVR-3808CI so I'm not lacking in HDMI inputs or additional shelf space.

Didn't the post referring to the new "all-in-one" unit indicate that it will be Video only with no SACD or DVD-A support?

In answer to your question, that's exactly what I did mainly due to the outstanding audio output of the 3930CI. I have an HD player in my HTPC.

SirJohn -

I'm in the same situation right now - I have the 3930 & the 3808, love them both. The 3930 2 CH analog audio for CD's is just incredible. I don't want to give that up. I also have about 150 DVD-A & SACD's, and I do enjoy listening to them as well.

I am currently thinking about the Samsung BD-UP5000 combo BR/HD player. but have concerns about the quality. I have Samsung TV's (DLP & LCD), and love both of them, but I still don't think their DVD player would match a Denon. The Samsung player will retail for $800 when it conmes out supposedly - not a small amount of cash. By the time the Denon comes out...who knows what it will cost.

My reality (and I have a hard time explaining this weird personality quirk to my wife, btw) is that I'll buy the Denon when and if it comes out regardless of whether or not I have the Samsung. My upgradeitis bug will come roaring back and I'll just "feel" the Denon will be better. I'm too hooked..

Didn't the post referring to the new "all-in-one" unit indicate that it will be Video only with no SACD or DVD-A support?

In answer to your question, that's exactly what I did mainly due to the outstanding audio output of the 3930CI. I have an HD player in my HTPC.

You are correct that the Denon Blu-ray player being released soon will not support playback for SACD or DVD-A, however that have claimed to be working on a universal player that supports both Blu-ray and HD-DVD and possibly SACD and DVD-A. I persume if this news is true, we'll possibly see this player next fall.

Regardless of cost, would you Denon owners buy the DVD-3930CI and a stand alone HD-DVD or Blu-ray player, or would you want an all-in-one unit that combined the best of the 3930 and any high-def player?

Do you think it's possible the DVD/CD half of such a universal player would operate as well as the 3930, or would it be as sluggish as most of the HD-DVD and Blu-ray players out there are for DVD's and CD's?

My 3930 is primarily a SACD player, but it gets time with DVD-Audio, DVD, and CD as well. There may be a high-def player in the future that can play these discs as well or better, but I'm enjoying my player today. I figure someday I'll end up with a high-def player of some sort, but it's not going to replace the 3930. Keeping the 3930 also lets me spend less on the new player since all I need it to do is play the high-def video, and I won't need to care about sound quality or DVD-upconvert.

SirJohn -

I'm in the same situation right now - I have the 3930 & the 3808, love them both. The 3930 2 CH analog audio for CD's is just incredible. I don't want to give that up. I also have about 150 DVD-A & SACD's, and I do enjoy listening to them as well.

I am currently thinking about the Samsung BD-UP5000 combo BR/HD player. but have concerns about the quality. I have Samsung TV's (DLP & LCD), and love both of them, but I still don't think their DVD player would match a Denon. The Samsung player will retail for $800 when it conmes out supposedly - not a small amount of cash. By the time the Denon comes out...who knows what it will cost..
As a fellow owner of the same Denon components, I agree about everything here. My plan is to get the Samsung combo' player and use it strictly for BluRay and HD-DVD movies, running bitstream to my AVR to take advantage of its HDMI 1.3 audio decoding capabilities. I don't really think the pending Denon BluRay player will be that much of an improvement from a strictly video standpoint.
I'll continue to use my '3930 for music CD's via its two-channel analogue output, and its DenonLink connection for SD DVD's, SACD and DVD-A. On occasion, I also like to use the multi-channel analogue outputs on the '3930 for SACD and DVD-A, but it's a pain going into the menu each time to disable DenonLink in order to do so.

Regardless of cost, would you Denon owners buy the DVD-3930CI and a stand alone HD-DVD or Blu-ray player, or would you want an all-in-one unit that combined the best of the 3930 and any high-def player?

Do you think it's possible the DVD/CD half of such a universal player would operate as well as the 3930, or would it be as sluggish as most of the HD-DVD and Blu-ray players out there are for DVD's and CD's?

I'm trying to decide if I should wait for Denon's proposed universal player that does everything the 3930 does in addition to being a HD-DVD and Blu-ray player, or if it would be best to keep the standard def and hi-def sides separate. Part of me wants one deck that does it all, and part thinks I should buy a 3930 for CD's and DVD's (of which I have hundreds that I don't plan on replacing) and get a couple decent and affordable Blu-ray and HD-DVD players on the side. I just bought an AVR-3808CI so I'm not lacking in HDMI inputs or additional shelf space.


I recently bought a Panasonic DMP-BD10A for Blu ray and love it. I still have my Denon 3930CI for DVD playback (have over 300 DVD's) and 2 ch music. The 3930CI is a wonderful unit that I will continue to use for a long time. Happy to have both units sitting in my system.

Regardless of cost, would you Denon owners buy the DVD-3930CI and a stand alone HD-DVD or Blu-ray player, or would you want an all-in-one unit that combined the best of the 3930 and any high-def player?I would prefer to use the DVD-3930CI combined with a [dedicated] BD player.


Do you think it's possible the DVD/CD half of such a universal player would operate as well as the 3930, or would it be as sluggish as most of the HD-DVD and Blu-ray players out there are for DVD's and CD's?not too many other [hi-def] universal players out there, that I know of, have as good or better, audio sections as the DVD-3930CI (for CD, DVD-A, SACD).


I'm trying to decide if I should wait for Denon's proposed universal player that does everything the 3930 does in addition to being a HD-DVD and Blu-ray player, or if it would be best to keep the standard def and hi-def sides separate. Part of me wants one deck that does it all, and part thinks I should buy a 3930 for CD's and DVD's (of which I have hundreds that I don't plan on replacing) and get a couple decent and affordable Blu-ray and HD-DVD players on the side. I just bought an AVR-3808CI so I'm not lacking in HDMI inputs or additional shelf space.yeah, it would'nt hurt to have a DVD-3930CI for DVD-Movies, CD, DVD-A, SACD, HDCD, etc,... The nice thing is you could take advantage of Denon-Link connection (with your AVR-3808CI) for passing multi-channel audio (SACD).

Or you could even use an Oppo DV-980H (for $200.00) for the same purpose. The DV-980H has excellent HDMI up-scaling, and good audio performance (maybe not as good as the DVD-3930CI but close). Although it lacks Denon-Link connectivity.

While I'm sure the new Denon DVD-3800BDCI will have outstanding video performance I would probably prefer to have a different brand BluRay (BD) product, the Denon is over-priced as usual ($2000.00).

I've been reading very good things about the new Pioneer Elite BDP-95FD ($1000.00):
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=921164
Beautiful high-def video quality performance. HD audio tracks (for BluRay movies) are supposed to sound awesome. Also, I understand Pioneer Elite will release a newer model (BDP-96FD?) following the new year some time that will be fully BD v1.1 compliant.

I'm eying the Samsung BD-UP5000 HD DVD/BD combo player. It will be BD Profile 1.1 compliant, will eventually internally decode all of the advanced CODECs (including DTS-HD MA), and it is affordable. It looks like it will be a great solution for HDMI users.

The Samsung's Reon video processing implementation may also be better than with Denon's 2930. I'm not completely happy with the 2930's SD DVD video quality, so I will be assigning it as an audio-only transport through Denon Link. This is still quite the duty, as I listen to high-res music more than watch SD DVDs.

I use a PS3 for BR, an A2 for HD and my 2930 for everything else.

yeah it's a pain in the ass to have three dedicated players, but at least this way I don't have to make any sacrifices.

I use a PS3 for BR, an A2 for HD and my 2930 for everything else.

yeah it's a pain in the ass to have three dedicated players, but at least this way I don't have to make any sacrifices.

That is exactly my current configuration. My wanting the dual-format Samsung player is not so much for minimizing the number of players, but for adding native 1080p/24 video output for HD DVDs and internal DTS-HD MA decoding for both BDs and HD DVDs. If the PS3 and HD-A2 already took full advantage of the capabilities of both formats, then I wouldn't be interested in the Samsung. Given that Samsung has been pushing back the release of the player, they may have given it the necessary care to be a very reliable machine that does everything correctly.

Thanks for the replies guys, I think I've decided to get the 3930 for DVD and CD use--and I'll probably get into DVD-A.

I take it that the Denon-Link is the best way to pass multi-channel audio, and I assume that HDMI is the best way to pass 1080p video, but what's the best set-up for the audio of DVD movies and music CD's? Have the HDMI pass the DVD movies entirely (meaning both audio and video), or utilize another output? What about CD's? Optical, coax, etc...

Thanks for the replies guys, I think I've decided to get the 3930 for DVD and CD use--and I'll probably get into DVD-A.

I take it that the Denon-Link is the best way to pass multi-channel audio, and I assume that HDMI is the best way to pass 1080p video, but what's the best set-up for the audio of DVD movies and music CD's? Have the HDMI pass the DVD movies entirely (meaning both audio and video), or utilize another output? What about CD's? Optical, coax, etc...

Use Denon Link for audio if you are not going to use the player's analog outputs. When using the 3930, Denon Link is the only way for you to get SACD's DSD signals directly to your Denon receiver. Denon Link will also take care of everything else.

Another reason to use Denon Link is that many find it to provide the best quality for signals that are generally affected by jitter. The interconnect apparently suffers from far less jitter than HDMI, SPDIF, and even iLink.

Thanks for the replies guys, I think I've decided to get the 3930 for DVD and CD use--and I'll probably get into DVD-A.

I take it that the Denon-Link is the best way to pass multi-channel audio, and I assume that HDMI is the best way to pass 1080p video, but what's the best set-up for the audio of DVD movies and music CD's? Have the HDMI pass the DVD movies entirely (meaning both audio and video), or utilize another output? What about CD's? Optical, coax, etc...

Analog outputs are best for all audio IMHO. I use all 8 analog audio connections, plus a single HDMI that runs directly to the TV.

I use the Denon Link for DVD-A & SACD, plus all movie decoding. I connect the HDMI directly to my TV for video. I also use the 2 CH analog outs for listening to CD's - just connect it to a different input on the receiver and rename the input (I call mine "DVD: CD's". You will be amazed at how much better your CD's sound.

Great info, again guys.

I've just returned from my local Denon retailer the proud owner of a 3930--at least that's what the sales receipt and hefty Visa balance claim. I should see the unit next week. I've decided on connecting the HDMI, Denon-link, and left/right cables to my AVR-3808. I think this'll give me the best set-up to start with. Maybe after I live with it for a time, I'll try a different configuration.