I really liked my Denon, and it is built like a tank for sure, but the laser assembly that they use just does not hold the test of timeyeah, I hope the DVD-3930CI has a more updated laser assembly. Otherwise I will continue to service it as I plan to use it for a long while. I have a huge collection of CD's, SACD's, DVD-A's and SD-DVD's. I like having the Oppo as a back-up player. Although I alternate using each player (it's fun comparing).


the audio company I contract to has a bunch od Denon's in need of repair sitting on shelves waiting to be done. They dropped the line a couple years ago because of thatissue. They just also dropped Rotel because of repair issues. And you should see all the Velodyne subs waiting for new amps. But that is another issuewow, that's very very interesting.

For those that have the Denon, and it is still working, I hope it lasts a long time. At least longer than my two has.

And you should see all the Velodyne subs waiting for new amps. But that is another issue.

I hope you are right about the Denon. My 3930 is good....so far.

As far as my Velodyne sub goes....I'm on amp number 3.

you should see all the Velodyne subs waiting for new amps. But that is another issue.

As far as my Velodyne sub goes....I'm on amp number 3scary............sounds very likey that it's a transistor that blows out

My one major concern re: Denon ...is long time reliability. I too hope the 3930 stands the test of time.

I also am on my "third" unit. My initial unit failed after a week of use. HDMI signal was lost. Returned to dealer. my replacement unit was several months older according to the mfr date. after three months of use, the unit would frequently lock up. sent it in for service. after two months, unit was returned. service report said replaced laser optical block assembly. unit is somewhat okay. had it back for about six weeks now. it locked up twice on me so far since the last return. prior to return, it would lock up a few times a week. the only way to unlock the unit was to disconnect the power. what really sucks about denon is that the unit is unreliable and it only has a one year warranty.

Marantz has either a two or three year warranty on their stuff. Sony has a five year warranty on their ES line. One year seems really lame for the price you pay.

scary............sounds very likey that it's a transistor that blows out

The first amp blew just before the warranty expired, the second a couple of months after.

Velodyne were great, they covered the second amp, even though the sub was technically now out of warranty, no questions asked.

Hopefully I won't need to test the Denon service dept.
But in case I do I already have a contact there (he helped with updating my firmware).

I also am on my "third" unit. My initial unit failed after a week of use. HDMI signal was lost. Returned to dealer. my replacement unit was several months older according to the mfr date. after three months of use, the unit would frequently lock up. sent it in for service. after two months, unit was returned. service report said replaced laser optical block assembly. unit is somewhat okay. had it back for about six weeks now. it locked up twice on me so far since the last return. prior to return, it would lock up a few times a week. the only way to unlock the unit was to disconnect the power. what really sucks about denon is that the unit is unreliable and it only has a one year warranty.

Marantz has either a two or three year warranty on their stuff. Sony has a five year warranty on their ES line. One year seems really lame for the price you pay.

Yes - a one year warranty is certainly lame for such a high-cost item. And my 3930 warranty will be up next month. I shudder at the cost of any future repair(s) and shipping. My Sony 9000ES DVD player (w/ same MSRP) came w/a 5 year warranty. Never needed to use it though. And the unit still plays perfectly and I use it almost every day in my second location.

Getting off the Denon thread for just a second, I have a cheap Sony (compared to Denon) that is just like the energizer bunny. It keep playing and playing etc. etc. :D
Maybe if enough people quit buying, or extend the warranty length, they will correct the problem. It seems to be working for GM. (auto)

My experience with Denon has been great thus far. My AVR-4306 and DVD-2930CI remain rock-solid in mechanical reliability. I still have a perfectly working Denon AVR-2802 and DVD-910 that I bought around the time of their release.

It's a shame that Denon somewhat hurt their reputation with the 3930CI.

I was thinking about purchasing a 3930 and then thought......Why? I blew a bundle on a Denon dvd5000 and although it sounded good, it lasted a few years & the laser assembly went south. A Denon repair facility replaced it & it went out again in a year. So, I went to a 3910 and although it sounded and looked good, it lasted two years & now it sits in a corner of my room unhooked. I planed to send it in to have the laser replaced, but bought an OPPO after recommendations from this sites members. WOW, why repair the Denon when the OPPO brand new is the same amount & I swear it looks as good on SD DVD's. I guess i am tired of the repairs on an expensive component. I am not downing the Denon, and if you have one & like it, then I am glad for you. I am just leary of the reliable of a product you pay over a grand for. Maybe i just got one of those Friday work day builds. Twice! :rolleyes:
I do listen to allot of music, but I use the dacs in the Bryston SP2 for that.

Myself and a freind purched 2 DVD5000,s when they first came out, my friends lasted 3 months before the optical pickup faied, mine lasted 6 months....both were repaied but faied again....at the time the units were AUD$ 5000..

I had "2" 3930,s, both sufferd from lockups/disc read errors....both were diagnosed with failed opical pickups....i have always been a Denon fan, but this was the last straw so i went and purchased my first Marantz unit..the DV9600...couldnt be happier...fault free and it is actually a better performer than the 3930 in both audio and video!!

My experience with Denon has been great thus far. My AVR-4306 and DVD-2930CI remain rock-solid in mechanical reliability. I still have a perfectly working Denon AVR-2802 and DVD-910 that I bought around the time of their release.

It's a shame that Denon somewhat hurt their reputation with the 3930CI.

I think Denon was hurt more by the 2900 DVD player than anything else. Back in the day (2003/2004) - those threads were filled w/ problem units. Even myself - I returned one 2900 (w/ noisy motor) and my second 2900 had to go in for repair after just 2 months of use.

It's a shame that Denon somewhat hurt their reputation

Maybe if enough people quit buying they will correct the problem

i have always been a Denon fan, but this was the last straw so i went and purchased my first Marantzyeah, after my brand-new DVD-3930CI failed after two months of use (a year ago) I purposely submitted a letter directly to D&M Holdings CEO (in Manhattan, NYC), these are the guys pocketing the majority of their profits. He was very responsive, a manager directly below him contacted me within a few days upon receiving my letter. They made sure my unit was processed and repaired as expediently as possible. My main point was to sort of place their problems directly to their executive's faces so they can [see] the reality directly from their customers and not from their managers. I really believe there is a concertive effort going on right now to "clean-up" some of their problems before they face more serious fall-out. I don't believe it's just a co-incidence that Jeff Talmadge ("Denon Jeff") is back here on AVSForum answering questions. I really believe he's trying to get a "feel" for what's going on out there, and what people are saying and feeling about Denon products............Denon has very nicely designed products, however they need to make some serious efforts to improve quality/manufacturing. Moreover many of their products are "arrongantly" over-priced.

Denon has very nicely designed products, however they need to make some serious efforts to improve quality/manufacturing. Moreover many of their products are "arrongantly" over-priced.

I've never understood the concept of "arrogantly" overpriced.

If people will pay it, and they're making the sales numbers they had hoped to, it's not overpriced whether you think so or not.

Is a Ferrari "arrogantly" overpriced? Many would say so, but their three year waiting list to purchase a new one says not.

Price/performance is a decision we all have to make for ourselves, and frankly I think the 3930CI is a bargain given it performs even better than the 5910CI in many areas for less than half the price.

I've never understood the concept of "arrogantly" overpriced..I say this because Denon is in the large commercial market competing against other major [commercial] manufacturers like Yamaha, Sony, Onkyo, Pioneer, etc.,...With the kind of quantites they're doing they don't have to amortize costs that high, I believe they're "gouging". Especially when a significant percentage of a particular product fails after short-term use (ie. DVD-3930CI for example). Their pricing (I think) is based on a past reputation.

The following is a segment, you may have read, from the popular "ListenUp" interview in regards to the release of the new Denon BluRay player, DVD-3800BDCI, Jeff Talmadge responds (quote):
And what is the price of the new Blu-ray player?

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.
what does that mean (we've never followed "normal logic")?


If people will pay it, and they're making the sales numbers they had hoped to, it's not overpriced whether you think so or not..that does'nt mean they're priced right though?


Is a Ferrari "arrogantly" overpriced? Many would say so, but their three year waiting list to purchase a new one says not..can't really compare a Ferrari here. For one thing they're practically hand-made. The average person who could raise $1500.00 for a premium DVD player could'nt afford to raise $200,000.00 or $300,000.00 for a car. I know I could'nt.


Price/performance is a decision we all have to make for ourselves, and frankly I think the 3930CI is a bargain given it performs even better than the 5910CI in many areas for less than half the price.both, the DVD-3930CI and the DVD-5910CI, are expensive. The DVD-5910CI is rediculously expensive. I know the DVD-3930CI has a lot of hi-end performance built-in to it, so it is a good value relative to the DVD-5910CI as you mention.

And I know there are many other "boutique" manufacturers producing players for $4K to $10K.

The Oppo DV-980H is what I call a "bargain" (@$180.00).

Why is it that Pioneer Elite can produce some very impressive players for typically $1000.00 and under? The guys at one of my local dealers are totally raving about the Elite BDP-95FD, claiming it yields some of the best picture quality of the current collection of comparable players, they sell them as fast as they get them in stock.

I'm not meaning to have a "flame" contest here either.............:)

Does someone actually have verifiable statistical evidence that supports the claim that the 3930 has a more frequent repair rate than other DVD players. I can see the online anecdotal evidence varies opinion wise, so any idea how many were sold how many repaired?. Why aren't more for sale on ebay or videogon ?. Anyone know?.

both, the DVD-3930CI and the DVD-5910CI, are expensive. The DVD-5910CI is rediculously expensive. I know the DVD-3930CI has a lot of hi-end performance built-in to it, so it is a good value relative to the DVD-5910CI as you mention.

And I know there are many other "boutique" manufacturers producing players for $4K to $10K.

But the Oppo DV-980H is what I call a "bargain".

Why is it that Pioneer Elite can produce some very impressive players for typically $1000.00 and under?

I'm not meaning to add unecessary "flame" here either.............:)

I know what you mean. However, look at Denon's upcoming pre/pro and amplifier combination. That has an MSRP of $14,000, yet if you read the manual of the pre/pro, you'll see that the AVR-5805CI is given better real-world performance numbers for its audio section. The AVR-5805CI is half the price of the pre/pro and amp combo, and its amp section should have no problems driving difficult 5 or 7 speaker configurations in 8-ohm loads.

I think the AVR-5805CI and DVD-5910CI are relative bargains when compared to Denon's newest offerings.

You at least have to give Denon credit for their incredible build quality. Just compare the Oppo 980's internals (pictured below) to online pics of the 3930CI and 5910CI's internals. Some people consider build quality to be a mitigating factor for Denon's pricing structure, even though that doesn't always reflect reliability and performance.

http://img444.imageshack.us/img444/8591/img0437tc2.th.jpg (http://img444.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img0437tc2.jpg)

Does someone actually have verifiable statistical evidence that supports the claim that the 3930 has a more frequent repair rate than other DVD players. Any idea how many were sold how many repaired?I'd like to know myself. This thread documented a pretty high rate of failures though.

look at Denon's upcoming pre/pro and amplifier combination. That has an MSRP of $14,000I know, I was gonna mention this but did'nt want to dig even deeper:)

The pre-pro alone is like $7000.00, pretty damn expensive if you ask me.


yet if you read the manual of the pre/pro, you'll see that the AVR-5805CI is given better real-world performance numbers for its audio section. The AVR-5805CI is half the price of the pre/pro and amp combo, and its amp section should have no problems driving difficult 5 or 7 speaker configurations in 8-ohm loads..actually I have'nt read much details lately on these units. I think they're both impressive actually, especially the separate pre-pro. I'm very curious to hear some reviews in regards to sound-quality for music (2ch and multi-channel).


I think the AVR-5805CI and DVD-5910CI are relative bargains when compared to Denon's newest offerings..yeah, true..........I believe the AVR-5805CI retailed for $5000,00? And the DVD-5910CI retials for $3800.00 (that's $8800.00), I would expect no failures.


You at least have to give Denon credit for their incredible build qualityI do. I love my DVD-3930CI for that reason, partly the reason I purchased it. It is built like a tank. It has discrete audio and video sections, and many more very nice features. But hate the fact that it failed after two months of use (brand-new).


Just compare the Oppo 980's internals (pictured below) to online pics of the 3930CI and 5910CI's internals. Some people consider build quality to be a mitigating factor for Denon's pricing structure, even though that doesn't always reflect reliability and performance.yeah, but the comparisons are relative- ie. a $200.00 product compared to a $1500.00 product.

Never seen the inside of an OPPO before. Shocking to say the least :eek: Amazing that OPPO can look/sound so good w/ just two cheap looking circuit boards and a 50 cents power supply. Guess all the magic resides inside that one LSIC. On another note - maybe its simplicity is a virtue :)

Guys, I too had problems with my 2930. Laser optics broke down after a year. The technician I talked too said he received many Denon units with this problem. And the new optics he put on mine will only last about a year or two at the most. Sad state of affairs if you ask me. :mad:
I will not buy from Denon again, specially players. On the other hand, I have to tell you that my AVR-2803 Receiver never had a single problem.
Take care all!

To bad that lot's of people have problems with the laser at the 3930.

I think i'm a lucky guy, my 3930 will be 14 months old next week and i use it about 3 to 5 hours a day and it eats every disc i trow in without reading problems after the latest 3 firmware update's.

i like this unit a lot and the only bad point i complane about is the (to)slow operating respons of the unit.

after the latest firmware update the remote control of this unit respond faster but when you puss the buttons on the 3930 it self it's still to slow.

I hope they fix that one day.

I too had problems with my 2930. Laser optics broke down after a year. The technician I talked too said he received many Denon units with this problem. And the new optics he put on mine will only last about a year or two at the mostwas this a technician from the New Jersey, Customer Service Center?


my AVR-2803 Receiver never had a single problemyeah, I understand it's the players (transports) that have inherent problems. I guess the nature of the complex mechanical assemblies involved. Although I guess some brands don't experience as adverse problems with their players?

On another note - maybe its simplicity is a virtue :)

That's what I was thinking. Despite being the least impressive in terms of build quality, my Oppo 980 will probably outlast every other player I currently own. A simple drive with two circuit boards is fine by me as long as the machine doesn't give me headaches.

The construction of the higher-end Denon players are so complex and evolving that you wonder if every single part within have been properly tested for reliability before production.

Amazing that OPPO can look/sound so goodI know:D

i like this unit a lot and the only bad point i complane about is the (to)slow operating respons of the unit.

after the latest firmware update the remote control of this unit respond faster but when you puss the buttons on the 3930 it self it's still to slow.



So are you saying that w/ the latest firmware update - the 3930 has faster response when using the remote control? Do you also mean faster at navigating DVD menus ...or?

higher-end Denon players are so complex and evolving that you wonder if every single part within have been properly tested for reliability before production.most-likely not

I know, I was gonna mention this but did'nt want to dig even deeper:)

The pre-pro alone is like $7000.00, pretty damn expensive if you ask me.

Priced equipment like the Lexicon MC-12HD? There's a $10K pre-pro.

If the Denon can be competitive at $7K, it's a bargain.

IMHO Denon equipment is priced fairly for the build quality you get.

Pioneer Elite is often less expensive, and IMHO it shows.

Whether Denon is expensive (let alone "arrogantly") depends on what you expect.

Lots of folks like Krell and Levinson amps, yet you can get a receiver with a similar power rating for tens of thousands of dollars less.

Affordability doesn't come into play if you want quality and are willing to pay for it, and that's the arena Denon (and Marantz, for that matter) play in.

The MSRP of a Marantz 9600 is higher than that of the 3930CI. Does that mean they're "arrogantly priced" as well?

The MSRP of a Marantz 9600 is higher than that of the 3930CI. Does that mean they're "arrogantly priced" as well?no, anything Denon or Marantz is a bargain (D&M Holdings)..........:rolleyes:

Priced equipment like the Lexicon MC-12HD? There's a $10K pre-pro.

If the Denon can be competitive at $7K, it's a bargain.

IMHO Denon equipment is priced fairly for the build quality you get.


I don't think you can call Denon's pre/pro a bargian by any stretch of the imagination, but I'm sure its quality will be comparable to offerings from companies like Lexicon.

I will agree that many pre/pro offerings from companies like Lexicon are way overpriced, but the difference there is that people are mostly buying on name alone. I've seen people not even consider Denon as high-end merely because it doesn't have the less mainstream name attached to it. In my opinion, there's a lot of irrationality among consumers in the high-end market. Lexicon can throw cheap, but nicely placed parts into an expensive looking casing and people will still swear by the supposed "highest quality" that it provides.

I think Denon is trying to build a name for itself in the high-end market by setting the extraordinarily high prices that less mainstream companies like to charge. They know very well that some consumers in the high-end market automatically equate price with quality. Those who have a good grasp on the technical side of things know otherwise.

Higher price = Higher perceived quality

I just want a audio only pre/pro with DenonLink in

So are you saying that w/ the latest firmware update - the 3930 has faster response when using the remote control? Do you also mean faster at navigating DVD menus ...or?

Dutchman - you there?

I just want a audio only pre/pro with DenonLink indoes Denon actually make something like this?

I don't see Denon making an audio-only pre/pro, especially with the advent of HDMI as a solution to carry high quality video as well as audio. Their new pre/pro does have Denon Link 3 support, however.

I do see some potential on the Denon Link front. Jeff Talmadge mentioned that Denon has some great plans for the interface, so it is possible that they can get it licensed and working with the new advanced audio codecs. In such a case, the user could send only Blu-ray audio from a compatible Denon player to a Denon pre/pro with its video section completely shut down. This should satisfy those who take issue with video processing circuitry potentially harming some of the audio's fidelity, as well as quell some people's arguments about the significant amount of jitter that HDMI can possibly add for PCM audio signals.

So are you saying that w/ the latest firmware update - the 3930 has faster response when using the remote control? Do you also mean faster at navigating DVD menus ...or?

The buttons on the remote control respond almost without a delay time when u use it to control the 3930 after the last software update.

So the 3930 looks faster when you use remote control.
navigation true menu responds good to when using the remote.

it's a lot faster than before the software update.

My 3930 firmware is 8284-3 which is quite old.

I tried burning 8284-7 firmware 3 times - no luck. I must be doing something wrong.

Downloaded and extracted file OK. Using Nero. 8X speed using ISO 9660 (no juliet).

Maybe somebody can lend me their CD-R ...???

You have to put the actual folder with the firmware file inside it onto CD. Are you burning it that way?

THANKS!
That's what I was doing wrong. I was placing the contents of the folder onto the CD - rather than the actual folder. Loaded perfectly. Now to test...

Can you please post the link for Firmware: 8284-7

Can you please post the link for Firmware: 8284-7

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=12024250&postcount=2951

Thanks smith. I have the 3930ci connected to my 4308ci receiver using HDMI. Can anyone suggest if its better audio quality using denon link or hdmi with pcm conversion. Also does any one have idea whether i need to setup the channel levels in my player if i have already done so for my receiver. Please advise.

Also does this firmware take care of all the issues in previous updates?

I don't see Denon making an audio-only pre/pro, especially with the advent of HDMI as a solution to carry high quality video as well as audio. Their new pre/pro does have Denon Link 3 support, however.

I do see some potential on the Denon Link front. Jeff Talmadge mentioned that Denon has some great plans for the interface, so it is possible that they can get it licensed and working with the new advanced audio codecs. In such a case, the user could send only Blu-ray audio from a compatible Denon player to a Denon pre/pro with its video section completely shut down. This should satisfy those who take issue with video processing circuitry potentially harming some of the audio's fidelity, as well as quell some people's arguments about the significant amount of jitter that HDMI can possibly add for PCM audio signals.

I am not to concerned about the damaging effects of video circuitry. But look at all the problems people have with dedicated video processors from video processing companies. I can't image Denon can deal with all those issues in a do everything component.

Also what the hell does anyone need all those inputs and outputs for. I will use at most 3-4 of the HDMI (sat box,PS3,3930). As anyone buying this will care about video and will probably have the same.
Composite video: 8 in 3 out. S-video: 8 in 3 out. Component: 6 in 4 out. Thats 32! unused video inputs/outputs cluttering the back and unused high end sheilded circuitry I'm wasting my money on. (And a lot of cardas caps!)
For the few people still using NES, VCRs and laserdisk?

Thanks smith. I have the 3930ci connected to my 4308ci receiver using HDMI. Can anyone suggest if its better audio quality using denon link or hdmi with pcm conversion. Also does any one have idea whether i need to setup the channel levels in my player if i have already done so for my receiver. Please advise.

Denon Link's low jitter properties have audiophiles gravitating towards it when compared to HDMI. Also, Denon Link covers every audio format that the 3930CI supports while the player's HDMI interface does not support SACD. For SACD audio, your options are either Denon Link or the player's analog section. Denon Link will transmit SACD's DSD signals for your 4308CI to handle.

The player's speaker settings do not affect Denon Link output, so leave those alone if you aren't using the 3930CI's analog section. The idea of Denon Link is to essentially send the audio stored on disc to a Denon AVR and let the Denon AVR handle all of the post-processing (e.g., speaker adjustments).

I am not to concerned about the damaging effects of video circuitry. But look at all the problems people have with dedicated video processors from video processing companies. I can't image Denon can deal with all those issues in a do everything component.


As for dedicated video processors, I couldn't agree more there. My DVDO VP30 went on the fritz just two weeks after I bought the thing. I'm glad the store I bought it from has a generous return and refund policy.

That said, Denon's Realta implementation in their pre/pro is very simple when compared to dedicated video processors. It is something that Denon more than likely implemented without annoying glitches.

Denon Link's low jitter properties have audiophiles gravitating towards it when compared to HDMI. Also, Denon Link covers every audio format that the 3930CI supports while the player's HDMI interface does not support SACD. For SACD audio, your options are either Denon Link or the player's analog section. Denon Link will transmit SACD's DSD signals for your 4308CI to handle.
DenonLink is a great audio connection for all the reasons described here and more. However, if you select DenonLink as your digital connection in the AVR, you won't be able to output XM Radio or Net Radio in any Zone 2 set-up you might have. For some reason, that was possible with the previous generation of Denon AVR's (3806, etc.), but not with the '08 series. Consequently, I'm now going all analog (2ch and 5.1 multichannel) from my 3930CI for CD, DVD-A/SACD music and SD DVDs, and bitstream to my AVR 3808CI from my BluRay player.

I am having trouble playing audio CD's (just got few), is that a known issues with 3930ci or am i doing something wrong?

You may need a firmware update. What version do you have now?

How do i find the firmware version?

How do i find the firmware version?
Scroll back a little way in this thread.

After reading some of the comments, I just want to make myself clear. I did love the Denon sound, build quality, and look. It or rather they, do have good looking video. My only gripe is the fact that they have had this same problem part since the 90's I think it was. C'mon, isn't that enough time to resolve it? And I paid the top dollar for the units. Because of that, I am looking and watching now, not buying.

My first 3930 had a failed HDMI circuit a week after purchase. The replacement unit died a few months later. it kept locking up. they replaced the optical block and returned the unit two months later during christmas. the unit is now exhibiting lockups again and the warranty is about to expire. really sucks.

To bad that lot's of people have problems with the laser at the 3930.

I think i'm a lucky guy, my 3930 will be 14 months old next week and i use it about 3 to 5 hours a day and it eats every disc i trow in without reading problems after the latest 3 firmware update's.

i like this unit a lot and the only bad point i complane about is the (to)slow operating respons of the unit.

after the latest firmware update the remote control of this unit respond faster but when you puss the buttons on the 3930 it self it's still to slow.

I hope they fix that one day.

After updating firmware - at least operational wise - can't really tell much of a difference. If there is - it's slight. My only complaint remains the slow operational response of the unit when navigating DVD menus. Which I really don't do any more - as I just use "search chapter" to get where I'm going.

I noticed this firmware (8284-7) was released way back in Aug '07. It's six months old already :eek:. Wonder if any more updates are coming down the pipe as Denon Jeff has mentioned that this player will stay in Denon's current line up for the near future. I still think it's very strange that Denon doesn't provide these updates here in the USA ...?

My first 3930 had a failed HDMI circuit a week after purchase. The replacement unit died a few months later. it kept locking up. they replaced the optical block and returned the unit two months later during christmas. the unit is now exhibiting lockups again and the warranty is about to expire. really sucks.

After 10-11 months, my original 3930 started locking up, and the dealer replaced it with a new-in-box unit, no questions asked. They also assured me I had a new 12 month warranty (and I saw it listed as such in their computer.) Now as long as it keeps breaking every 11 months... :p

Is service perhaps a good reason to buy this particular unit from a local bricks-and-mortar, rather than on-line? I know there are a number of very respectable on-line dealers - I've bought components on-line and have been extremely happy with those transactions. But I dispair when hearing stories about failed (and lengthy) mail-in repair jobs. If its in-warranty, I want it replaced, not fixed.

-Reid

Is service perhaps a good reason to buy this particular unit from a local bricks-and-mortar, rather than on-line? I know there are a number of very respectable on-line dealers - I've bought components on-line and have been extremely happy with those transactions. But I dispair when hearing stories about failed (and lengthy) mail-in repair jobs. If its in-warranty, I want it replaced, not fixed.

-Reid

Here's my own experience in response to purchasing from a brick and mortar versus an internet dealer when a repair issue happens early in the warranty period.

I purchased my 2930CI from a respectable internet dealer last year. The laser failed big time four months later. It wouldn't navigate DVD menus, properly advance or reverse search,or play sacd's properly. I used it only 8 hours avg. usage per week with good ventilation, no smoke or dust nearby. I called Denon service in NJ after a reasonable three minute wait. The service representative said it was probably a failed laser assembly and he asked me where I bought it and how long ago. After checking with his supervisor, he told me to take it to a specific repair center in the Chicago suburbs that could handle the problem. However, the repair center was only open M-F from 9-5 and it wasn't convenient with my work situation to take a day off from work to drop it off and then take another day off to pick it up. At that point I regretted buying it online even though I saved sales tax and shipping costs and received a courtesy discount for an unrelated transaction problem.

Most internet dealers only have a 30 day complete satisfaction exchange program. At least the two I have done business with. Perhaps their profit margin doesn't permit that when the exchange period expires. After that you are basically on your own to get your unit repaired. So I decided to send it to the NJ repair facility to get it fixed. They require a letter describing the problem and ask you to include the DVD and /or sacd which involved the malfunction. Besides that the one way insured shipping wasn't cheap and Denon won't return the original box that everyone seems to crave in the used market. Fortunately my 2930 was repaired in three weeks even though Denon said they had a backlog of unrepaired units last November. They even loaded the latest firmware 8283-A which has been available on the UK service site since 08/2007. Too bad the US customers can't also do that from the Denon USA website. I understand that Denon is working on that. Perhaps up till now they wanted the service centers to handle it.

I agree with you, for expensive gear malfunctions you want it replaced not fixed. Denon could have easily sent me a new one right away and fixed the one I sent in and sold it as a refurbished unit. My unit was in mint condition cosmetically. No dents, dings, scratches. Oh well, maybe that's their policy to warranty repair and return a unit less than 4 months after purchase. My 2930 is now a backup unit for my 3930CI in case it goes down. The 3930 has handled every DVD and sacd perfectly that I have thrown at it so far. It's a great unit and I enjoy it's performance. Maybe my factory sealed 2930 was a lemon out of the box or I'm a glutton for punishment.:D

I can't believe the failure rate described here, and on such expensive machines no less. Are the 3910's more reliable than the newer Denon units?

Is this is case where the failure rate is average (whatever average means) but because many of the unhappy people visit this forum it appears worse than it is?

It's the old story, for every unhappy customer there might be 100 that haven't had a problem, we just don't hear from them.

Only a thought/theory.

Not trying to defend Denon....I'm just a worried 3930 owner praying his machine continues to work problem free.

Is this is case where the failure rate is average (whatever average means) but because many of the unhappy people visit this forum it appears worse than it is?

It's the old story, for every unhappy customer there might be 100 that haven't had a problem, we just don't hear from them.

Only a thought/theory.

Not trying to defend Denon....I'm just a worried 3930 owner praying his machine continues to work problem free.I suppose it could be argued that people are on threads like this to get answers to problems, so maybe yes.

Nonetheless, Denon's customer service is awful.

Firmware update is now on Denon's USA site.















Not...

Is this a case where the failure rate is average (whatever average means) but because many of the unhappy people visit this forum it appears worse than it is?

It's the old story, for every unhappy customer there might be 100 that haven't had a problem, we just don't hear from themthere may be a number of DVD-3930CI owners out there with trouble-free unit's, however I don't think it's a coincidence that there are a high-rate of failure reports here on this forum. I think it reflects the reality of this product's design and manufacturing problems.

there may be a number of DVD-3930CI owners out there with trouble-free unit's, however I don't think it's a coincidence that there are a high-rate of failure reports here on this forum. I think it reflects the reality of this product's design and manufacturing problems.

Seems that way to me as well. I can't think of any other brand that - on this forum- has had so many reports of various failures and lasers needing to be replaced after only a few months of usage. I actually can't think of any other brand that even comes close, and I read this board quite avidly.

Seems that way to me as well. I can't think of any other brand that - on this forum- has had so many reports of various failures and lasers needing to be replaced after only a few months of usage. I actually can't think of any other brand that even comes close, and I read this board quite avidly.
Dizzyboy, out of curiosity what was the number of failures you came up with and how much more was that than the next brands highest failure rate.... thanks in advance

Is this is case where the failure rate is average (whatever average means) but because many of the unhappy people visit this forum it appears worse than it is?

It's the old story, for every unhappy customer there might be 100 that haven't had a problem, we just don't hear from them.

Only a thought/theory.

Not trying to defend Denon....I'm just a worried 3930 owner praying his machine continues to work problem free.

I originally wondered the same thing, but after having 2 units fail and then finding out from my local Denon dealer that he was NOT recomending the 3930 to customers anymore as several customers other than myself had units fail more than once!!

As i have said before i am a big Denon fan , having many trouble free Denon products....but my faith has been tarnished by the DVD products, first the DVD5000 and then the 3930 ,both VERY expensive players ...at this stage i would never touch another Denon DVD player..

was this a technician from the New Jersey, Customer Service Center?

yeah, I understand it's the players (transports) that have inherent problems. I guess the nature of the complex mechanical assemblies involved. Although I guess some brands don't experience as adverse problems with their players?

Hi WestCoast, actually it was a technitian in Brazil who told me that. Yeah, you're right, the main problem is with the players... I will not touch a Denon player anymore... unfortunately, 'cause I love my 2930... :(

Hi, i hope this is not off topic.

searched the forums and couldn't find anything on this so i thought i ask directly.

I'm having trouble putting 2 dvd's on the same DVD-RW disk and then having the denon dvd player accepting it (3930). The message "cannot play this disk" appears. Similar problem if i try to trick it by having folders with other materials as well as a folder with VOB files (or lets say a correct DVD video structure), when i open that folder, it shows upp as empty on Denon filenavigation.

Has anybody had experience with this and know how to get past it? The reason i want to know is because i use dvd shrink to get several series on the same dvd, bit of a drag when i cant play those disks though. And my Pioneer 575 handles it all with a charm.

/Fal.

I have a few questions on my new 3930. One, how do I find the firmware version, and I hear people talking about an update yet I see nothing listed on their web site. Plus, how do you update this player? with a CD?

Second, does anyone know the remote control code for this player? I want to program it into my Yamaha rx-v1800 receiver remote, but the number listing for Denon in the Yamaha manual does not work.

Thanks everyone.

Is this is case where the failure rate is average (whatever average means) but because many of the unhappy people visit this forum it appears worse than it is?

It's the old story, for every unhappy customer there might be 100 that haven't had a problem, we just don't hear from them.


I've wondered this too. I would guess cost factors in to the equation too. Honestly, if I had a $100 player that broke out-of-warranty, I would not try to get it fixed - I'd just chuck it, and not feel too bad about it.

FYI, my dealer claims they've had good luck with them, FWIW.

-Reid

I have a few questions on my new 3930. One, how do I find the firmware version, and I hear people talking about an update yet I see nothing listed on their web site. Plus, how do you update this player? with a CD?


Thanks everyone.

Do a search in this thread for posts by Dutchman01. He has explained everything you need to know about 3930 firmware updates.

I suppose it could be argued that people are on threads like this to get answers to problems, so maybe yes.

Nonetheless, Denon's customer service is awful.

Firmware update is now on Denon's USA site.















Not...



Whahaha LOL:):):):)

I originally wondered the same thing, but after having 2 units fail and then finding out from my local Denon dealer that he was NOT recomending the 3930 to customers anymore as several customers other than myself had units fail more than once!!

As i have said before i am a big Denon fan , having many trouble free Denon products....but my faith has been tarnished by the DVD products, first the DVD5000 and then the 3930 ,both VERY expensive players ...at this stage i would never touch another Denon DVD player..

I know of a few Denon owners with the same gripe. Apparently, the main fault lies with the optical block failing. My 3930 is on it's third repair in nine months. For me, the reliability on the 3930 is worse than a Microsoft X-Box 360.... and everyone knows how crappy the failure rate on that is.

The other issue I have is that Denon repair center is the pits ever since they merged with Marantz. They do not return calls as promised and servicing does not fix the issues. If you buy any Denon, you do so at your own risk. You have been forewarned.

I know of a few Denon owners with the same gripe. Apparently, the main fault lies with the optical block failing. My 3930 is on it's third repair in nine months. For me, the reliability on the 3930 is worse than a Microsoft X-Box 360.... and everyone knows how crappy the failure rate on that is.

The other issue I have is that Denon repair center is the pits ever since they merged with Marantz. They do not return calls as promised and servicing does not fix the issues. If you buy any Denon, you do so at your own risk. You have been forewarned.

Yeah, well... I'm going to assume that my 2930ci has finally been fixed. How did I find out?? I saw that my credit card had been charged (within $2 of the max I said I would pay for the repair of the unit... yes, they asked on the repair form).

It was sent in just after Christmas. Maybe it was a bad time to send it in. I have emailed the repair person twice (the one who emailed me the repair form) and I never received an answer. I called a couple weeks ago and was told that it had not been fixed. Then last week I called again. I was told it was being tested and that it should be sent out within a couple days.

Of course I have not received the unit yet. The charge date was today.

OH... what was wrong with the unit? Wouldn't finish an SACD, crashed on some DVD's, especially home-burned ones (several media types, two different burners, different burn speeds, etc.). The drive had just become extremely buggy... and annoying.

I used to really love Denon products. I'm on my 3rd receiver, this is my second DVD player. Every product has been buggy. Every product has failed in one way or another. I'm tired of Denon.

Don't get me wrong. When the 2930 has been working, it rocks! I love the PQ and the SQ. Both are superior to the Oppo that I have been using since Christmas. But the Oppo never fails. It plays EVERYTHING I throw at it without fail. No side-change lag, no crashing. It is a great machine. Rock solid. It's PQ is good but not great. It's SQ is very good, but it's not 2930 good.

So, next round I'll probably go all Pioneer Elite... when I finally decide to upgrade my system and go Blu-Ray. I'll get a nice Pio with the new audio codex to decode the new True-HD and DTS codex that the Blu-Ray drive will output. The 2930 will then be relegated to SACD, CD and DVD-A use only. I'm hoping it lasts that long... ugh.

shane

So, next round I'll probably go all Pioneer Elite...

I had a brand new Pioneer DV-79AVi and sold it when I demoed the 3930CI; I thought the Denon was that much better.

The layer change is particularly painful on the Pioneer players when compared to the invisible layer change of the Denon.

I pre-ordered one of the up-coming Pioneer Elite BDP-05FD BluRay players, I'm excited. I've read very good things about the BDP-95FD, exceptionally good picture quality and worksmanship.

I plan to use the Pioneer for playing BluRay title only. My DVD-3930CI will be used for playing CD's, SACD's, DVD-A's and DVD-Movies. Also my Oppo DV-980H can play the same formats.

It's definitely nice to have two players to split up the load.

I pre-ordered one of the up-coming Pioneer Elite BDP-05FD BluRay players, I'm excited. I've read very good things about the BDP-95FD, exceptionally good picture quality and worksmanship.

I plan to use the Pioneer for playing BluRay title only. My DVD-3930CI will be used for playing CD's, SACD's, DVD-A's and DVD-Movies. Also my Oppo DV-980H can play the same formats.

It's definitely nice to have two players to split up the load.
Yes WestCoastD, I have a Sony Blu ray, now I'm adding a 3930CI for everything else. Split the time between the players let's hope they last till the next iteration of HD.

Whahaha LOL:):):):)

I somehow remember Denon USA revamped their owners club over a year ago supposedly to provide updates easier. But over a year later they still are not able to provide a simple download. And people think they can make a reliable, complex piece of machinery?

Denon has been good with product support for their newest AVRs. They apparently just fixed even more issues there, including the problem with some 7.1 DTS-HD MA tracks showing up on the AVR display as 5.1.

Denon needs to quickly get their act together on the player front if they want to be a viable solution for BD playback components. I'm generally not too fond of Pioneer products (their 79AVi DVD player and Elite 84 AVR are very poor in quality when compared to Denon's 2930 and AVR-4306), but their upcoming BD player seems to be the most viable Blu-ray solution at this point.

I had a brand new Pioneer DV-79AVi and sold it when I demoed the 3930CI; I thought the Denon was that much better.

The layer change is particularly painful on the Pioneer players when compared to the invisible layer change of the Denon.

Thanks for reminding me...
Yes, I also had a 79AVI and I too found the 2930 to be superior in both SQ and PQ. I had forgotten about the layer change and the interface, which I also disliked... especially when compared to Denon.

But then... I'm assuming that I will probably stick with this for Audio only once I go Blu-Ray. It will most likely be my last SD-DVD player.

shane

I will probably stick with this for Audio only once I go Blu-Ray. It will most likely be my last SD-DVD playersame here, my DVD-3930CI will be my primary 2-channel CD and SACD/DVD-A player, as well as SD DVD-Movies. I play multi-channel SACD's and DVD-A's primarily using Oppo DV-980H via-HDMI (PCM). I will use new Pioneer Elite BDP-05FD player for BD exclusively.

Well... got the 2930ci back on Friday (as I said earlier), and set it up tonight. They did a fine job of shipping it back. Double boxed (in my original box!), and wrapped in plastic. Free of any scratches or fingerprints too!

Took the time to set it up well and the only thing out of 'normal' was the IRE setting. No biggie. All else was 'zero'd' out just fine and easy to tweak back to my liking.

Once set up... sound and video, I played my most difficult discs. No errors. They played all the way through.

Sounded great and the picture was perfect.

Denon seems to have done a great job with this player. I'm disappointed with their 'customer service', but the repair seems spot-on.

It's great to have it back and working well. It's a wonderful unit. Let's see how long it lasts.

shane

Denon seems to have done a great job with this player. I'm disappointed with their 'customer service', but the repair seems spot-onsame situation here. My DVD-3930CI was sent to customer service around October 2007, I got it back about a month later. It was returned double-boxed and thoroughly wrapped in plastic. After un-packing it it appeared exceptionally clean, as if they had used something to clean it with. It looked brand-new (although I kept in perfect condition all along). Can't complain about this...............The service report did'nt really say much about what they did to it.

After I got my (new) system re-configured and running, for a month now, the DVD-3930CI has functioned beautifully (knock on wood and metal and everything else:D). I try to be careful when selecting functions on the remote, let it step through each sequence.

Ditto. I too received the same excellent Denon warranty service for my 2900 several years ago. Once repaired - it was perfect (and still is). I also keep my fingers crossed (and knock on wood) for my 3930, as I Plan on keeping it for many many years.

Ditto. I too received the same excellent Denon warranty service for my 2900 several years ago. Once repaired - it was perfect (and still is). I also keep my fingers crossed (and knock on wood) for my 3930, as I Plan on keeping it for many many years.

Mine was not warranty service. It died about 13 months after purchase.:mad: The repair took 2 months total. It was expensive. Expensive! I think they merely replaced the drive mechanism, and for this I paid $350 (including insured shipping) and waited 2 months.

At least I had my Oppo for a backup drive, so no real torture while waiting, but the SQ and PQ isn't up to the 2930ci quality. Yes... I suffered greatly.;)

Now back to watching and listening with a huge, stupid grin on my face!

shane

Regarding the update..is burning the update on a cd the only way to do it, and is this safe? It seems kinda risky. I am following the instructions from Dutchman's post #2960.

Regarding the update..is burning the update on a cd the only way to do it, and is this safe? It seems kinda risky. I am following the instructions from Dutchman's post #2960.as far as I understand that is the only method (by disc).

Can someone post a link to the update for the 3930 I can't seem to find it. Also, where do we find the firmware version that we have now, and what firmware version is the latest? Thank you

Regarding the update..is burning the update on a cd the only way to do it, and is this safe? It seems kinda risky. I am following the instructions from Dutchman's post #2960.


I followed the instructions from Dutchman's post and the update burned to disc (took me a couple trys) and loaded perfectly :)

Can someone post a link to the update for the 3930 I can't seem to find it. Also, where do we find the firmware version that we have now, and what firmware version is the latest? Thank youSee Dutchman post #2960: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=12036889&postcount=2960

Regarding the update..is burning the update on a cd the only way to do it, and is this safe? It seems kinda risky. I am following the instructions from Dutchman's post #2960.

I just did last night and worked perfectly. You need to remember to put the whole folder that contains the file on to the CD and when update is all done...the unit will reset to factory settings so you need to reconfigure it again for your home theater.

Exactly. Also - I deleted the instructions from the folder.

Alright, I'm going to try it. Thanks, guys!

edit: I forgot to ask.. All the blanks I have are DVD-R/RW, is that okay? Or does it have to be a CD-R?

Not sure, but I'd use a CD-R to be safe.

DenonJeff sent me a copy of the firmware update for the 3930CI yesterday, and the upgrade went flawlessly.

The ROM file is identical to that uploaded in the past by Dutchman01, but if you'd feel better downloading the file directly from a Denon USA source, here you go:

http://rapidshare.com/files/95646130/DVD_3930.zip.html

Jeff's instructions are the same as Dutchman01's for the most part, but I found that applying this update did not reset my settings to factory defaults, for whatever reason.

Still, you should copy down your custom settings just to be safe before applying it.

Burn the folder (DVD_3930) to CD-R, ISO-9660 format at no more than 4x burn speed. Place disc in player tray and press close, press nothing else, disc will do the rest, when complete disc will be kicked out. Remove disc, do a main power cycle. Done.


The update actually does show its progress on the TV screen, it's pretty neat.

By "power cycle" he means to use the small on-off switch adjacent to the big lit "standby" button.

As Dutchman01 noted (with slight modifications):

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

1) Turn the power off (the little on/off switch)
2) Press the Play and Open/Close buttons at the same time and keep them down
3) Turn the power on (the little on/off switch)
4) Release the Play andOpen/Close buttons after seeing "DVD-3930" on the display
5) Press the buttons 3 2 6 5 on the remote
6) Press Menu button to cycle through revision info (BE, Make Day, DSP and IP.)
7) Turn power off or use "standby" to exit revision mode



At least for me, this updated my player from BE 8284, Make Day 711 to BE 8284-7, Make Day 802.

Not sure, but I'd use a CD-R to be safe.

Very true. Better to be safe than sorry!

kucharsk ,
Thanks for the report. Do you notice any differences w/ the new firmware?

kucharsk ,
Thanks for the report. Do you notice any differences w/ the new firmware?

Frankly, no, but I also wasn't really noticing any of the issues Dutchman01 reported the firmware update would fix.

It does seem slightly better about responding to remote keypresses from off to the side, though menu navigation is no faster (nor was it supposed to be.)

Well, I tried it, and for some reason it said "Can read this type of disc" on the screen. I was using a brand new CD-R with that Denon (unzipped) file/folder copied to it. I just used the download that kucharsk linked. So I must be doing something wrong. Any ideas?

I think you must save the file in ISO format.... Roxio does not default to this...

I know I ended-up having to purchase the latest version of Nero to properly burn the software to a CD. My Roxio software did'nt work.

I think you must save the file in ISO format.... Roxio does not default to this...

I have read this thread twice (and eventually bought a DVD-3930) and noticed that firmware CDR disc/filesystem formats have been a big issue, many coasters (failed/unusable discs) have been burned...

I think I have the latest Roxio software on my job-PC, and it defaults to "ISO+Joliet", which is an extension to the ISO-9660 file system, and "Joliet" is likely not readable by the Denon players when looking for firmware. This is pretty weird, since DVD-Rs with AVI/DIVX-movies burned with "ISO+Joliet" is likely playable on the Denon player. So the differentiating factor here seems to be that they read only "ISO-9660" (non-Joliet) for CDs, but "ISO+Joliet" for DVDs.

Just a quick note on Roxio: not only does it default to "ISO+Joliet", it does not seem to have "ISO9660" in Options/Settings.

There are two solutions to the dilemma here, besides spending loads of money on buying Nero software:
A) Burn the firmware-file on a DVD-R instead of CD-R (the player can read ISO+Joliet DVDs)
B) One of us (I can do it later today) can download the firmware-file (from the fileshare-link provided by Dutchman) and create an ISO-image-file in ISO9660-format and share via a fileshare-link. The ISO file can be burned to CD-R and will be in ISO9660 format even when burned by Roxio.

NB: I'm not sure about solution A, it may not look for firmware on DVDs...
The best way is probably to offer an ISO-file (in ISO9660-format) to everyone via a fileshare-link.
I will do this later today.

OK, here's the link to the latest DVD-3930 firmware, as an ISO-file:

rapidshare.com/files/95937831/fw3930_7.iso.html

Use your burning software's "Burn Image", or just double-click on file after download.

Remember, this is the same file:
- as offered by Dutchman elsewere in this thread
- as offered by Denon-Germany download site
- as shared by DenonJeff from Denon-USA (I assume, based on earlier post)

Loading/upgrading firmware is done at your own risk.

I have not used this file/image/disc myself -- my 3930 came loaded with latest firmware.

It is so nice to own a Mac, just burn a CD, stick it in the player and all went well.

For Windoze folks there's a free utility called "Image Burn" (and theres others) that work just fine for burning ISOs. No need to spend $$$.

larry

DenonJeff sent me a copy of the firmware update for the 3930CI yesterday, and the upgrade went flawlessly.

The ROM file is identical to that uploaded in the past by Dutchman01, but if you'd feel better downloading the file directly from a Denon USA source, here you go:

http://rapidshare.com/files/95646130/DVD_3930.zip.html

Jeff's instructions are the same as Dutchman01's for the most part, but I found that applying this update did not reset my settings to factory defaults, for whatever reason.


That reason comes true the fact denonJeff did not tell you to INITIALIZE your unit first before the update.

i also comfirm this rapidshare link above is the same firmware as a did post a view months ago, when using my link you also get a textfile with all the instruction.

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

(119 times downloaded so far)

All users that did use my link to the firmware and did upgrade the DVD-3930,
There's no reason to use the above link and to do a reflash again.

I did hope DenonJeff did give's us a firmware 8284-8 or something but that one doesnt exist yet.
(i hope they improof the speed of the unit one day.)

for all the others,

Go upgrade your unit, if you do have a old firmware on it before 8284-7
you need it.

But i really need to say, use my upgrade instruction please
we did not get that for nothing. To bad Jeff did not say that to.

How to Upgrade:


1. Turn on the player while holding in the PLAY and SKIP FOWARD buttons..the player should now say INITIALIZE.

2. Open the dvdtray and insert the cdr and close. the update should start automaticly.

3. Wait until display says COMPLETE, when done the tray will open automaticly.

4. Remove the CDR BUT!!! DONT CLOSE THE TRAY YET.

5. Turn of the player with the ON/off button (not the stanby)

6. Turn on the dvdplayer while holding the PLAY and SKIP FORWARD button.

7. The player should now say INITIALIZE again....turn of player....DONE

8. Now setting up the player again with your custom settings.


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

And ones again the compleet chance log with history:

changelog firmware version: 8284-7 Date: 08.08.2007

* 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".

changelog firmware version: 8284-6 Date: 25.07.2007

* 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.

Have fun all of you
greetings,

Dutchman01

That reason comes true the fact denonJeff did not tell you to INITIALIZE your unit first before the update.

Are you sure the initialization is needed (once, let alone twice)?

I certainly haven't had any issues since installing the update without the initialization procedure.

All I did was insert the CD-R, let the unit update, and power cycle it with the switch when it was done.

That was all DenonJeff said to do, and it worked perfectly…

Are you sure the initialization is needed (once, let alone twice)?

I certainly haven't had any issues since installing the update without the initialization procedure.

All I did was insert the CD-R, let the unit update, and power cycle it with the switch when it was done.

That was all DenonJeff said to do, and it worked perfectly…

Glad it does upgrade nice without Initializing on that way but those instructions are coming from denon japan where they made those firmware's.

that's al. it's up to you how you do it.:)

Wonder what the initializing does?

Wonder what the initializing does?

it reset's the machine before the flash, and after the flash it make's sure that the new firmware loads perfect in the memory of the machine without having parts of the past firmware into the memory loaded.

Recent reports are mentioning a .5 second layer change pause w/ Denon's new 3800 BD player ($2,000. MSRP) while playing SD DVDs. If this turns out to be the case - this is a HUGE reason (IMHO) for us 3930 owners to hang onto our units for SD DVD playback. (I realize layer change pauses bother me more than most). Of course another reason is the 3930's support for SACDs and DVD-As (which the 3800 lacks).

Recent reports are mentioning a .5 second layer change pause w/ Denon's new 3800 BD player ($2,000. MSRP) while playing SD DVDs. If this turns out to be the case - this is a HUGE reason (IMHO) for us 3930 owners to hang onto our units for SD DVD playback. (I realize layer change pauses bother me more than most). Of course another reason is the 3930's support for SACDs and DVD-As (which the 3800 lacks).

I won't get rid of my 3930 anyway, I love it. I am using a PS3 now for blu-ray, but want to get a separate blu-ray player and use the PS3 for games only (wear and tear reasons)....so I'll keep my 3930 for standard dvd's, and wait for the new Sony or Panasonic BD 2.0 blu ray players and pick from them. I have seen the Sony ES blu-ray player (over $1000) and the picture and audio I saw and heard was no better than Sony's $399 player, this after spending a few hours trying them both on the same plasma. So this time around, I am not going to spend thousands on a blu-ray player. I've had my 3930 for only a little over a month but I love it.

I'll be keeping my 3930 too no matter what happens.

I bought it as much for hi-rez audio as DVD playback. And I suspect it will do better with SD DVDs than all but the most expensive BD players.

Might jump into the fray when Oppo releases a BD player.

Recent reports are mentioning a .5 second layer change pause w/ Denon's new 3800 BD player ($2,000. MSRP) while playing SD DVDs.I saw this comment on the DVD-3800BDCI Owners thread. I'm a little confused. Does this simply mean that when you load a SD DVD there is an additional half-second processing time to read the disc?

I saw this comment on the DVD-3800BDCI Owners thread. I'm a little confused. Does this simply mean that when you load a SD DVD there is an additional half-second processing time to read the disc?
:eek::eek::eek:One-half second more loading time? That's a deal-breaker for me.

I saw this comment on the DVD-3800BDCI Owners thread. I'm a little confused. Does this simply mean that when you load a SD DVD there is an additional half-second processing time to read the disc?

It means that the layer change, which customarily occurs near the middle of a movie, freezes playback for half a second. This disallows a completely seamless viewing experience, which is why some people take it seriously.

It means that the layer change, which customarily occurs near the middle of a movie, freezes playback for half a second. This disallows a completely seamless viewing experience, which is why some people take it seriously.interesting, this is new to me. Are there other players that exhibit this behavior- ie. is this very un-common?

interesting, this is new to me. Are there other players that exhibit this behavior- ie. is this very un-common?

It is very common for a standalone DVD player to have layer change pause. Players that perform poorly on layer changes can pause for 2 seconds or longer. Of all the DVD playback devices I've used, only my Denon 2930, PC, and previously owned Marantz 9600 have a completely seamless layer change.

To get an idea of just how prevalent this is, check out the layer change column in this DVD player shootout (http://69.64.68.156/cgi-bin/shootout.cgi?function=search&articles=all) done by Home Theater Hi Fi. You can see that the vast majority of players they tested have layer change pause.

I have been using my Denon 2930 for a month. Yesterday I gave a pure direct function a try while playing a CD. When swithing from All off to Normal mode my unit got stuck (could not even switch it off). I tried it a couple of times with different CD's with the same result. There has been no problem to go eg from Normal to Mode 1 or further. With DVD's and SACD's there is no problem. Have you ever encounter such a thing? Please let me know. I wish I didn't have to contact my service provider. Thanks.

I have been using my Denon 2930 for a month. Yesterday I gave a pure direct function a try while playing a CD. When swithing from All off to Normal mode my unit got stuck (could not even switch it off). I tried it a couple of times with different CD's with the same result. There has been no problem to go eg from Normal to Mode 1 or further. With DVD's and SACD's there is no problem. Have you ever encounter such a thing? Please let me know. I wish I didn't have to contact my service provider. Thanks.

I ran into the same problem and I'm using the latest firmware. This is a quirk that likely affects all 2930s.

I gave a pure direct function a try while playing a CD. When swithing from All off to Normal mode my unit got stuck (could not even switch it off). Have you ever encounter such a thing?yes, this was a common problem with the DVD-3930CI as well, it would totally hang-up. All you can do is do a power re-boot (engaging little ON/OFF switch), wait a few seconds, and power back ON. Then enable the Pure direct switch (once), let it switch to the next mode (which ever mode that is- "NORMAL" or "OFF").

I alway take my time now when I switch this function ON or OFF. You have to realize there's a lot going on when enabling this function, so be patient. I enable the button [once], let it respond to the next step, then enable it again, let it respond to the next step, etc.,...until "OFF" is enabled. Same thing when switching back to "NORMAL".

I have a problem with my 2930ci. Every time I play regular dvd's or burnt dvd's the sound likes to stop/disappear for few seconds then comes back on while I'm watching a movie. It will happen probably like every 15 minutes or so. It's so annoying. I played the same discs in the PS3 without any problems at all. Please if anybody can help me I would truly appreciate it. Thanks in advance.

Thanks for your notes. Are there any other bugs I should expect to see when using my 2930? Regards.

To complete the picture I have got two other questions regarding my Denon 2930:

1. did you experience when loading a new CD/DVD that your unit cannot recognise format and you have to power it off and try again?
2. AL24 Processing Plus - is that automatic or you have to enalbe it in options? If automatic when is it supposed to work? I cannot remember it operating in my Denon.

Thanks again.

To complete the picture I have got two other questions regarding my Denon 2930:

1. did you experience when loading a new CD/DVD that your unit cannot recognise format and you have to power it off and try again?
2. AL24 Processing Plus - is that automatic or you have to enalbe it in options? If automatic when is it supposed to work? I cannot remember it operating in my Denon.

Thanks again.

1. I have had a 2930 for almost a year now. I love it! I have not had any significant problems with it. As others have stated, once in a while it gets stuck in a non-responsive state. Usually this occurs after I get impatient and push the buttons on the remote too quickly, i.e. before the unit has had a chance to respond to the previous command. Whenever this happens, I turn off the main power button momentarily. Everything is back to normal after it powers up again (as explained by WestCoast above).
I suggest getting the latest firmware (BE8283-B) if you don't already have it and feel confident you know how to do it.
2. For a discussion of AL24, refer back in this thread to posts on or about Jan 12-14, 2008.

maphiker thanks for your note. where can I get hold of the latest firmware (and how to check the one that installed now) along with instruction how to do that. many thanks.

2. AL24 Processing Plus - is that automatic or you have to enalbe it in options? If automatic when is it supposed to work? I cannot remember it operating in my DenonI believe it operates all the time (at least for CD, SACD, DVD-A)?

maphiker thanks for your note. where can I get hold of the latest firmware (and how to check the one that installed now) along with instruction how to do that. many thanks.

Stoper -
You can find a link to the firmware in this (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=11283214&postcount=2842) posting.

I hadn't really bothered about this before, but I'm starting to think there might be something up...

My Denon 2930 player is connected to my Denon 3805 receiver via Denon Link. When I play CDs down that cable the sound seems strangely muffled compared to how they sound through my Technics hi-fi.

The AL24 indicator is lit on both the 2930 and the 3805. Does this mean the signal is being processed twice? Could this be distorting the sound?

I hadn't really bothered about this before, but I'm starting to think there might be something up...

My Denon 2930 player is connected to my Denon 3805 receiver via Denon Link. When I play CDs down that cable the sound seems strangely muffled compared to how they sound through my Technics hi-fi.

The AL24 indicator is lit on both the 2930 and the 3805. Does this mean the signal is being processed twice? Could this be distorting the sound?

With that setup AL24 is only being applied within the AVR. Denon's players only apply AL24 for the analog output, which happens to run concurrently and explains why the indicator is lighting up. AL24 is primarily Denon's method of signal interpolation which involves bit-extension and oversampling right before the DAC stage. This is customarily done by expensive CD players.

I can assure you that the 2930 outputs bit-perfect signals via Denon Link. My AVR's signal read-outs match the specifications of the input sources.

With that setup AL24 is only being applied within the AVR. Denon's players only apply AL24 for the analog output, which happens to run concurrently and explains why the indicator is lighting up. AL24 is primarily Denon's method of signal interpolation which involves bit-extension and oversampling right before the DAC stage. This is customarily done by expensive CD players.

I can assure you that the 2930 outputs bit-perfect signals via Denon Link. My AVR's signal read-outs match the specifications of the input sources.

Excellent - that's good to know, thanks. It must just be the room acoustics then, or perhaps my 8 year old Mission speakers are starting to show their age...

maphiker thanks for your note. where can I get hold of the latest firmware (and how to check the one that installed now) along with instruction how to do that. many thanks.

Someone else posted this, I can't remember who:

To check your firmware on the DVD-2930/3930:

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

Any ideas on how the 3930 would compared to the new 983 Oppo with that ABT chip???

Any ideas on how the 3930 would compared to the new 983 Oppo with that ABT chip???

Check the review done in Secrets of Home Theater. Looks like an impressive player that could possibly beat Realta based Denon.

Edit: their tests do not include many of the cadences other than film and video, and they maybe biased towards Anchorbay. It is more apparent when you read their review of DVDO VP50.

Any ideas on how the 3930 would compared to the new 983 Oppo with that ABT chip?I understand the Oppo is very good, however the DVD-3930CI Realta still may be slightly more refined (and "film-like").

If you read the review, IIRC, you'll see that the Mediatek MPEG decoder was the reason that the OPPO 983 performed better. CUE/ICP was controlled and the deinterlacer didn't have to filter (or try to filter). Some players can filter the problem but edges are kinda blurring and some do better jobs than others. The 970 (and I assue 980) also did an excellent job of filtering but don't measure up in other areas. If you already have a 2930/3930 and are happy with it there's really no reason to get the 983 and vice versa. You're going to be splitting thin hairs when you get down to it.

larry

the Mediatek MPEG decoder was the reason that the OPPO 983 performed better. The 970 (and I assue 980) also did an excellent job of filtering but don't measure up in other areas. If you already have a 2930/3930 and are happy with it there's really no reason to get the 983 and vice versainteresting, thanks for your input!

I would assume the Denon (DVD-3930CI) has a significantly better audio section though, would serve (I believe) as a better dedicated CD-SACD-DVD-A player. I'm using, both, the Oppo DV-980H and Denon DVD-3930CI, I really like the sound of CD's from the Denon. But the Oppo is very nice sounding for multi-channel SACD and DVD-A via-HDMI (PCM).

If you read the review, IIRC, you'll see that the Mediatek MPEG decoder was the reason that the OPPO 983 performed better. CUE/ICP was controlled and the deinterlacer didn't have to filter (or try to filter). Some players can filter the problem but edges are kinda blurring and some do better jobs than others. The 970 (and I assue 980) also did an excellent job of filtering but don't measure up in other areas. If you already have a 2930/3930 and are happy with it there's really no reason to get the 983 and vice versa. You're going to be splitting thin hairs when you get down to it.

larry

I agree. I very much preferred the ABT102 solution over the Reon in the 2930, as the former can properly de-interlace more difficult DVD content. However, the Realta's SD de-interlacing performance has been said to be on par with the ABT solution, so the video performance between the Oppo 983 and Denon 3930 should be very similar even when considering other factors. Both players have good edge enhancement and noise reduction features. The 3930 does have some non-defeatable CUE issues though.

That said, the Oppo probably can't compete with the 3930 in analog audio performance.

Yes, I forgot to mention that I was remarking on video only. And for me, personally, I just was to see what's on the disc, so "extra" video processing isn't a factor for me. That's why the HDM players are nice: 1080p24 -> 1920x1080 display w/3:3 at 72hz. Can't get much simpler. :)

larry

interesting, thanks for your input!

I would assume the Denon (DVD-3930CI) has a significantly better audio section though, would serve (I believe) as a better dedicated CD-SACD-DVD-A player. I'm using, both, the Oppo DV-980H and Denon DVD-3930CI, I really like the sound of CD's from the Denon. But the Oppo is very nice sounding for multi-channel SACD and DVD-A via-HDMI (PCM).


This is true,

did compare them today.

listening to Audio on the Oppo is not that bad at all, but my 3930, does have a lot more breath and a better sound stage when listening to audio.
did not test all functions with it but picture quality comes Very close to the Denon.

Responding of the Oppo is a lot faster compared to the denon.

If i did not have the Denon DVD-3930 and should go out to buy a new DVD Audio player i think 90% i went for they Oppo. Sure for it's price.
Now i got the Denon, a stay with it and i'm waiting for the next versions off the Denon Blueray versions.

Did hear somthing that the new models after those first ones comes with SACD and DVD-Audio Support and the profile goes from 1.1 to 2.0.

That meens for me,

No DVD-3800BDCI for me special when i'm also reading about the half second layer change with SD DVD.

but my 3930, does have a lot more breath and a better sound stage when listening to audioI agree. Although Oppo is not bad playing 2-channel (analog) stereo.


Responding of the Oppo is a lot faster compared to the denon..I agree


i'm waiting for the next versions off the Denon Blueray versions.
Did hear somthing that the new models after those first ones comes with SACD and DVD-Audio Support and the profile goes from 1.1 to 2.0.yeah, that's what I read as well. However I would think not until this time next year. I really don't want to wait that long, I would like to start experiencing BluRay movies right now (and DTS-HD MasterAudio), I hear it's incredible. I have yet to have this experience in my own space.

Also I'm not sure I want to have a "Universal" BluRay player, I believe combining all these functions lends itself to more potential problems and failures (as with the DVD-3930CI and others), too much demand on mechanisms and firmware. This is one major reason the DVD-3800BDCI is starting to sound good to me (even though I'm considering the Pioneer Elite BDP-05FD). While the picture quality of the DVD-3800BDCI is supposed to be the best out there in a BD player, the price [is] very high.


No DVD-3800BDCI for me special when i'm also reading about the half second layer change with SD DVD.I figure if I were to get a DVD-3800BDCI I would still use my DVD-3930CI and Oppo DV-980H to play SD DVD's to divide the usage between players, so I'm not too concerned about the .5 sec layer-change (with the DVD-3800BDCI).

When did Denon fix the CUE bug in the 3930?????

When did Denon fix the CUE bug in the 3930?????

They did not. It is a hardware problem with the brand of MPEG decoder used. It was the one hold up for me getting this player after all Panasonic got it right in 1999 on a much cheaper player.

CUE bug. News to me. I've never noticed the CUE bug (I have on my other players) even once. I've watched well over 100 DVD's on my 3930. I also don't remember reading anything about any CUE bug in any 3930 review (including Secrets).

Also I'm not sure I want to have a "Universal" BluRay player, I believe combining all these functions lends itself to more potential problems and failures (as with the DVD-3930CI and others), too much demand on mechanisms and firmware. This is one major reason the DVD-3800BDCI is starting to sound good to me (even though I'm considering the Pioneer Elite BDP-05FD). While the picture quality of the DVD-3800BDCI is supposed to be the best out there in a BD player, the price [is] very high.

I agree 100%. In fact - if I could buy a Blu-ray player that played BD's ONLY - I'd be happy. I don't even need it to play CD's and DVD's. And would never use it for those formats. Let alone SACD and DVD-A. My motto - KISS (keep it simple stupid). Reason I liked the 2500 "transport" - but it has issues - and is in need of firmware updates - and still no official word from Denon :(

Re: DVD-3800BDCI. I considered this player too. Just for BD playback (my 3930 would continue to be my SD DVD player). But now I'm definitely waiting for the new Pioneer BDP-05FD (May/June) at half (or less) the cost. It's recently been discovered that the 3800 has issues w/ 24hz playback - which is critical for my setup. And I just can't trust Denon to come through w/ a proper (and timely!) firmware fix. Don't want to be stuck w/ a $2,000. boat anchor.

Check the review done in Secrets of Home Theater. Looks like an impressive player that could possibly beat Realta based Denon.

Edit: their tests do not include many of the cadences other than film and video, and they maybe biased towards Anchorbay. It is more apparent when you read their review of DVDO VP50.

What I was thinking was that it must be one thing to benchmark and another thing how the pictures actually looks.


I have currently a Snazio Net Cinema 1350HD based on the Sigma 6130 chip. And it is showing its age. My Toshiba HD-A1 sure is better than the Snazio, but it only plays region 1 NTSC discs....


Now the silver version of the Denon 3930 is on sale, I have been tempted by it. But there is also good deals on the Toshiba XE1(EU version of XA2).

..and then this new Oppo comes around... damn.... so many choices.


Is the Realta not supposed to be programmable and this be able to filter out the CUE bug????

CUE bug. News to me. I've never noticed the CUE bug (I have on my other players) even once. I've watched well over 100 DVD's on my 3930. I also don't remember reading anything about any CUE bug in any 3930 review (including Secrets).

I have never noticed it in real world use either (60" screen) but, from Secrets... "The 3930CI failed two of our CUE tests, including material with an alternating 3-2 cadence and our 4:2:0 ICP test. This means that the player is not incorporating any type of CUE correction filter even though I believe the Realta chip has this capability.

As far as I know, none of the firmware updates addressed this.

You can see if the player exhibits the problem by looking at the red and blue inverted triangles that are part of one of the Snell and Wilcox test patterns on DVE. If there's ICP the 2 vertical sides of the triangles will be jaggy. Some filters remove the jaggies to some degress but the lines are soft and a couple do a decent job. Just about every MPEG decoder exhibits some form of ICP.

larry

It's recently been discovered that the 3800 has issues w/ 24hz playback - which is critical for my setup. Don't want to be stuck w/ a $2,000. boat anchor.I have to admit this (24Hz) issue caught me totally off-guard, completely new to me.

I'm still trying to understand how this would affect a typical installation? Connecting DVD-3800BDCI straight thru a receiver/processor (HDMI), then to your display (ie. not using Crystallio processing in-between), would you still experience periodic "jerking" etc.,...?

I'm pretty new to this and am not sure which is doing the processing? I have the 3930 hooked to the panny plasma 700u which is 1080p. I also have the 3930 to output 1080p. Does this mean that the 3930 is doing the processing? Any advice would be appreciated.

I am looking at a refurb 2930ci over at ecost.com for $429. Their information does not seem right...The title says...

DVD Player with HDMI Upscaler (DVD-2930CI)
Teranex processing, HDMI 1080p video, DiVx (v.6), WMA and MP3 compatible, DCDi™ by Faroudja, Burr-Brown DAC. (Manufacturer Recertified)


But the details say...

Latest I/P Converter from Silicon Optix, Inc.
The DVD2930CI uses the latest 10-bit I/P converter "REON-VX" developed through a joint development effort that merged image processing algorithms of Silicon Optix, Inc., and Denon video technology on the foundation of an image processing device. This 10-bit processing offers high conversion performance and dramatically improves motion detection capability. Multi-Directional Diagonal Filter (MDDF) technology, used for the first time in the DVD2930CI, which accurately detects and corrects the directionality of lines on a per-pixel level to avoid "jaggies" that easily appear when video sources are I/P converted, ensuring smooth picture playback.

I thought the DCDi™ by Faroudja and REON-VX were competing technologies, with the REON being a little better.

Does Ecost have this wrong? I just want to make sure there are not 2 different versions of the player

I have never noticed it in real world use either (60" screen) but, from Secrets... "The 3930CI failed two of our CUE tests, including material with an alternating 3-2 cadence and our 4:2:0 ICP test. This means that the player is not incorporating any type of CUE correction filter even though I believe the Realta chip has this capability.

As far as I know, none of the firmware updates addressed this.
This is true for the moment, No firmware released by Denon yet for the chroma bug and i don't no why.

last year we at europe did report to Denon that we had a problem with Pal DVD's at the Auto mode. Lot's of DVD's here did show black stripes and Ghosting effects in the background.

a few examples token from a german hifi forum.

http://img84.imageshack.us/my.php?image=mndungfeuer2od1.jpg

http://img252.imageshack.us/my.php?image...gsfeuer1pb0.jpg

http://img252.imageshack.us/my.php?image...ibkopf1abm1.jpg

2 Moths after the report and investigation by Denon Japan they released a solution made by Denon and Silicon Optics.
Not only the 3930 has this problem also the 2930 got it.

For the 3930 the Silicon Optics 10bit Realta -Video Processor (SXT2LF-400)
did get a new software also general improvement of the De-Interlacing-performance was made in this fix and some minor bug's

The DVD-A1XVA did not has this bug reported yes becouse it has the older Video Processor (SXT2-100)

For the Update you must send in the unit to Denon and will be done for free as long it has warrenty.

Now back to the Chroma bug,

(a few years ago)

Denon is the only consumer electronic manufacturer to publicly acknowledge the existence of the problem in their players. Not only have they admitted the problem, but their engineers worked with the engineers at ESS to fix the problem. You can now get the DVD-3800 and DVD-9000 from Denon without the bug. Kudos to a company that admits a serious issue publicly and then fixes it.

Why did they not correct this for the DVD-3930?
Maybee it has something to do with the fact No People were blaming about the CUE BUG?

Denon could fix this when i did bring in my 3930 for the Realta update.(I Think) Denon must no about the CUE BUG.


Are there US people with a brand new 3930 yet that has this firmware version
on it from factory?

BE 8284-7
Make Day 802
DSP 8250
IP 070518

LOOK TO THE IP: Thats the Realta Update

greetings,
dutchman.
It has something to do with the fact no people were blaming about this?

hey Dutchman!

Good input.

those lines look scary....

I hope that if I buy a 3930 now, it will be bug free....

I have never noticed it in real world use either (60" screen) but, from Secrets... "The 3930CI failed two of our CUE tests, including material with an alternating 3-2 cadence and our 4:2:0 ICP test. This means that the player is not incorporating any type of CUE correction filter even though I believe the Realta chip has this capability.

As far as I know, none of the firmware updates addressed this.

Yep - you are right. Should have re-read the Secrets review before posting. I hadn't read that review in over a year, and since I hadn't noticed it in "real world use" - I guess I blocked it from my head. Thanks! - now I'll probably start noticing it everyday :eek:

I have to admit this (24Hz) issue caught me totally off-guard, completely new to me.

I'm still trying to understand how this would affect a typical installation? Connecting DVD-3800BDCI straight thru a receiver/processor (HDMI), then to your display (ie. not using Crystallio processing in-between), would you still experience periodic "jerking" etc.,...?

My display (JVC RS1) requires 23.98hz (I assume most do - or it wouldn't be an issue) or I get extreme judder, as I did w/ Toshiba XA2 when it was outputting exact 24hz.

Does anyone know how to find the firmware version of the 3930?

Updated: sorry I found it, I will repost it for those who have just bought the unit and don't want to read through this tread again, hope nobody minds:

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

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

Ok I found my firmware version, can anyone tell me if this is the latest and if not, how does one update this machine, and what improvements were made since this firmware? Thanks

BE 8284-5
MAKE DAY 305
DSP 8250
IP 060802

Not sure what all of that means, I tried searching the thread but was hard to find this info.

Ok I found my firmware version, can anyone tell me if this is the latest and if not, how does one update this machine, and what improvements were made since this firmware? Thanks

BE 8284-5
MAKE DAY 305
DSP 8250
IP 060802

Not sure what all of that means, I tried searching the thread but was hard to find this info.

the latest 8284-7 firmware!

My display (JVC RS1) requires 23.98hz (I assume most do - or it wouldn't be an issue) or I get extreme judder, as I did w/ Toshiba XA2 when it was outputting exact 24hz.interesting. Do you know if all display's require exactly 23.98Hz? Or does it vary (23.98Hz and 24.00Hz)? How could Denon miss something like this?

the latest 8284-7 firmware!

This is correct.

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...930CI_3930.zip

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

Below the changelog from the past firmware versions.


Changelog: IP 070518 (Only Denon Service Center can do this Upgrade)

*Auto Mode with Pal Dvd's and Video 1 en 2 Mode fixed by new software for Realta Processor.

*general improvement of the De-Interlacing-performance

*Memory lockups fixed,

*Progressive mode update.

------------------------------------------------------------
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 so you don't need the update's before 8284-7

Dutchman01

I've noticed that my 2930CI, purchased in October 2007, has developed a problem: when either watching a DVD or listening to a CD, the player will sometimes freeze up. I've also noticed that when skipping tracks on DVD's or CD's that sometimes the player will freeze up before it starts playing the track I've selected. This seems to happen randomly with CD's or DVD's: it never happens in the same spot twice on a disc either. Has anyone else out there experienced something like this with their 2930CI? I'm about to call Denon support is it's still under warranty - a DVD player in this price range should be performing better than this!

Also, I've tried the method listed for the 3930 to check the firmware version on my 2930CI, but it does not seem to work...can anyone tell me how to check the firmware on my 2930CI?

OK folks.

You may or may not remember that it took over two months and $360 to 'fix' my 2930ci.

Well... turns out it wasn't fixed. It's actually worse than before. It's now hanging on CD's! It has trouble with regular CD's and really freaks out on MP3-CD's. Ugh. This sux. Now I've got to get it back to them.:mad:

At first I thought all was good. It looked great. They packed it and cleaned it (not that it ever had a single finger print on it!) very well, and it seemed to play things well.

That all changed last week when it started hanging up badly on CD's. You can hear the laser searching...zip...zip... zipzip. Never quite finding what it wants. Then maybe 2 minutes later it starts a song. Maybe, or it just stops. Ugh.:mad:

So, that's it. I'll never buy another Denon component again. Simple as that. I'm through. I've had every Denon Receiver or DVD player break down or go bad. I hope they actually fix this thing so that I can sell it and get something good. And it's a damn shame, cause when it works well... it's a dream!!

cheers.

shane

I've noticed that my 2930CI, purchased in October 2007, has developed a problem: when either watching a DVD or listening to a CD, the player will sometimes freeze up. I've also noticed that when skipping tracks on DVD's or CD's that sometimes the player will freeze up before it starts playing the track I've selected. This seems to happen randomly with CD's or DVD's: it never happens in the same spot twice on a disc either. Has anyone else out there experienced something like this with their 2930CI? I'm about to call Denon support is it's still under warranty - a DVD player in this price range should be performing better than this!

You may have a problem. But first, be sure you are not pressing the remote control buttons too soon before the last command has completed. The 2930 has a slow response time. Sometimes pressing too many buttons will cause the player to freeze up. Hope that works!

Also, I've tried the method listed for the 3930 to check the firmware version on my 2930CI, but it does not seem to work...can anyone tell me how to check the firmware on my 2930CI?

The procedure to get the firmware version is the same as the 3930. (See my recent post) I have a 2930 and it works perfectly. Make sure you are using the little power off button, the one that completely shuts off the player.

You may have a problem. But first, be sure you are not pressing the remote control buttons too soon before the last command has completed. The 2930 has a slow response time. Sometimes pressing too many buttons will cause the player to freeze up. Hope that works! .

Thanks for the tip. That could be part of my problem when I jump tracks - I'll have to pay more attention to the speed at which I hit the buttons on the remote. However this still does not explain why the player will freeze in mid track (DVD or CD) for no apparent reason during normal playback. This does not happen often, however I've seen it happen three or four times since October and am worried that it's a sign of an internal component failing. That's why I'm hoping there's a firmware update that will fix it rather than it being a hardware problem.

The procedure to get the firmware version is the same as the 3930. (See my recent post) I have a 2930 and it works perfectly. Make sure you are using the little power off button, the one that completely shuts off the player.

I'll try the procedure again when I get home. I'm thinking that since I turned the standby power button off (from green to red) before I used the main power switch to turn the unit completely off that this may be the reason the procedure didn't work for me last night. Is 8284-7 the latest firmware version for the 2930?

I've noticed that my 2930CI, purchased in October 2007, has developed a problem: when either watching a DVD or listening to a CD, the player will sometimes freeze up. I've also noticed that when skipping tracks on DVD's or CD's that sometimes the player will freeze up before it starts playing the track I've selected. This seems to happen randomly with CD's or DVD's: it never happens in the same spot twice on a disc either. Has anyone else out there experienced something like this with their 2930CI? I'm about to call Denon support is it's still under warranty - a DVD player in this price range should be performing better than this!

Actually... this is why I sent mine in for repair. It was especially bad on SACD's, but now (after 'repair') it errors on everything... especially CD's.

It will freeze and you can hear the laser zipziping around trying to 'land'.

I tried all the firmware changes and it did no good. I finally sent it in. That did no good, so it's going back.

Good luck.

shane

Fwiw, just an observation about the many reported operational hiccups with the 2930/3930:
I bought my '3930CI right after it came out and immediately experienced freeze-ups. I then exchanged it, but the new unit had the same original firmware version and I kept having that problem and other disc-related glitches and errors. For a time, I was also having another problem whereby the standby button wouldn't go off. However, after doing a series of firmware upgrades from versions three up to the current Version 7, my player now works like a charm. No errors, drop-outs, freeze-ups or any problem whatsover since the last upgrade, and the sound and video quality it produces is "way beyond compare," to quote any early Beatles song.:)
Moral of the story to those in this thread who've had problems, make sure you're using Version 7 firmware.

So, that's it. I'll never buy another Denon component again. Simple as that. I'm through.
<...>
And it's a damn shame, cause when it works well... it's a dream!!
shane

This is my first Denon product and I feel exactly the same way. Had my 2930 for 15 months before it begain locking up on everything, CDs, DVDs, SACDs etc., even with an external fan to cool it. It's been out for repair 8 weeks now and will probably end up costing me around $300 when it comes back. The picture and sound of this unit are fantastic but I'm pretty upset a unit of this calibre went bad so quickly.

I've heard that major credit card companies will double the manufacturer's warranty. I used MC and wondering if anyone was able to get theirs fixed under this "automatic" extended warranty when the unit is between 1 and 2 years old.

I've heard that major credit card companies will double the manufacturer's warranty. I used MC and wondering if anyone was able to get theirs fixed under this "automatic" extended warranty when the unit is between 1 and 2 years old.

I don't know about MC but I have used AMEX to get things replaced or fixed under their buyers protection plan. It is definitely worth purchasing these type of components with a card that doubles your protection.

Fwiw, just an observation about the many reported operational hiccups with the 2930/3930:
I bought my '3930CI right after it came out and immediately experienced freeze-ups. I then exchanged it, but the new unit had the same original firmware version and I kept having that problem and other disc-related glitches and errors. For a time, I was also having another problem whereby the standby button wouldn't go off. However, after doing a series of firmware upgrades from versions three up to the current Version 7, my player now works like a charm. No errors, drop-outs, freeze-ups or any problem whatsover since the last upgrade, and the sound and video quality it produces is "way beyond compare," to quote any early Beatles song.:)
Moral of the story to those in this thread who've had problems, make sure you're using Version 7 firmware.

I hope you're right in that a firmware update will be all it takes for my 6 month old 2930 to work flawlessly. How do people in the U.S. go about getting a firmware update for the 2930 without voiding the warranty? Do you have to send the unit in for repair, or will Denon U.S.A. email you the firmware update once you've talked to them? I'd hate to have to go through the trouble to send this thing off if all I need to do is update the firmware.

If you get a hold of the right person in Denon customer service, they may either e-mail you a link to download and burn the update yourself, or maybe even ship you a disk. Mr. "Dutchman01" in this thread right a few posts back has also posted the European version of the firmware several times and most people who've reported downloading it from some file sharing service reported that it fixed their problems. Denon was supposed to have made the updates available on their website, but that never happened.

I hope you're right in that a firmware update will be all it takes for my 6 month old 2930 to work flawlesslyyou never really know if the latest firmware will truly correct your problems or not, there's know way to exactly know what the specific problem is with your particular unit, all you can do is try and see what happens.


How do people in the U.S. go about getting a firmware update for the 2930 without voiding the warranty? Do you have to send the unit in for repair, or will Denon U.S.A. email you the firmware update once you've talked to them? I would definitely try to contact Denon USA first. They may send the firmware to you. Or they may refer you to a local "official" Denon warranty repair station in your region (which may be worth looking into as well).

If you are able to get firmware updated and you still experience the same behavior I would make sure to send the unit directly to Denon Customer Service (New Jersey) for repair.

I checked my firmware version in my 2930 (European version):

BE 8283-B
Make Day 802
DSP 8250

I can confirm what has been said above - patience in handling 2930 pays off. To start with I only make use of open/close button and allow Denon to set up. Have not had any lock up issues since then.

Can you please confirm whether the firmware version I have got is the latest one? Thanks.

you never really know if the latest firmware will truly correct your problems or not, there's know way to exactly know what the specific problem is with your particular unit, all you can do is try and see what happens.

I would definitely try to contact Denon USA first. They may send the firmware to you. Or they may refer you to a local "official" Denon warranty repair station in your region (which may be worth looking into as well).

If you are able to get firmware updated and you still experience the same behavior I would make sure to send the unit directly to Denon Customer Service (New Jersey) for repair.

Thanks for all the tips (that goes for everyone whose responded to my problems on this thread). I've tried calling Denon USA for support this afternoon, however since I don't feel like sitting on hold for what I'm sure would be an hour wait (the recorded voice said there were 11 callers in front of me, sheesh, get some more people to answer the phone Denon!) I'll try them again first thing tomorrow morning. Plus this will give me a chance to find out what version of firmware my 2930 is running when I get home. I hope the solution to my problem is as simple as installing new firmware; I'm still floored by the fact that a "high end" DVD player such as this is showing performance issues after only 6 months...even my $90 Sony DVD player I bought back in 2002 is just now starting to show signs of breaking down after 6 years, which is a good life for a cheap player. I expect far better from Denon.

I checked my firmware version in my 2930 (European version):

BE 8283-B
Make Day 802
DSP 8250

I can confirm what has been said above - patience in handling 2930 pays off. To start with I only make use of open/close button and allow Denon to set up. Have not had any lock up issues since then.

Can you please confirm whether the firmware version I have got is the latest one? Thanks.

Yes. That is the current firmware for the 2930.

Is 8284-7 the latest firmware version for the 2930?

No, BE 8283-B is the latest firmware for the 2930. Sorry to repeat myself.:)

Okay, I'm not sure what the problem is, but I can't seem to get the firmware check to work on my 2930. I start out with the unit on with no disc in the tray and the tray closed, then I push the small power switch to turn the 2930 off. Then I hold down the play and open/close buttons on the 2930, then I press the small power switch. I then let go of the play and open/close buttons after a couple of seconds, and then press 3-2-6-5 on the 2930 remote. I've repeated this several times and I still can't get the unit to show me what firmware it's running. What am I doing wrong?

I think you missed to press menu button on your remote (after the sequence of numbers). Please note that your denon will not let you know whether you are doing things fine or not. To see further info keep on pressing menu button.
Good luck

I hope you're right in that a firmware update will be all it takes for my 6 month old 2930 to work flawlessly. How do people in the U.S. go about getting a firmware update for the 2930 without voiding the warranty? Do you have to send the unit in for repair, or will Denon U.S.A. email you the firmware update once you've talked to them? I'd hate to have to go through the trouble to send this thing off if all I need to do is update the firmware.

My 2930 had the same behavior after 4 months last year. First it would not recognize SACD's properly. Then it started to freeze on all dvd's and after a few seconds start again. Eventually it would not load or play anything except a cd. Firmware updates did not solve the problem. I even went back to old versions and oddly it helped a bit for a while but the problems returned. I sent it to the NJ repair facility and they needed to replace the traverse mechanism which is the part with the laser. They also put the unit through a heat run for 2 days to make sure it worked perfectly and updated the firmware to 8283-B. I've had no problems with it afterwards. I suggest calling Denon NJ for a repair authorization and let them take care of it for you.

My 2930 had the same behavior after 4 months last year. First it would not recognize SACD's properly. Then it started to freeze on all dvd's and after a few seconds start again. Eventually it would not load or play anything except a cd. Firmware updates did not solve the problem. I even went back to old versions and oddly it helped a bit for a while but the problems returned. I sent it to the NJ repair facility and they needed to replace the traverse mechanism which is the part with the laser. They also put the unit through a heat run for 2 days to make sure it worked perfectly and updated the firmware to 8283-B. I've had no problems with it afterwards. I suggest calling Denon NJ for a repair authorization and let them take care of it for you.

Thanks for the advice. I'm glad to hear your 2930 is in great shape after you sent it in for repair, and that they went to the effort of putting the player through a heat run (did they tell you that they did this?) to make sure it's working perfectly. Your situation seemed to work out a lot better than a previous poster whose 2930 still wasn't working after it was sent in. I've still got another 6 months left on my warranty for my 2930, and the problems I've described previously have just started to manifest (I see the freezes randomly on CD's and DVD's, and the last two movies I watched back to back played without a hitch), so I'm going to wait a little while longer and see if the problems get more frequent before I send the player off to Jersey.

Thanks for the advice. I'm glad to hear your 2930 is in great shape after you sent it in for repair, and that they went to the effort of putting the player through a heat run (did they tell you that they did this?) to make sure it's working perfectly. Your situation seemed to work out a lot better than a previous poster whose 2930 still wasn't working after it was sent in. I've still got another 6 months left on my warranty for my 2930, and the problems I've described previously have just started to manifest (I see the freezes randomly on CD's and DVD's, and the last two movies I watched back to back played without a hitch), so I'm going to wait a little while longer and see if the problems get more frequent before I send the player off to Jersey.
The packing slip indicated "heat run - 2 days". Denon tech support advised me on the phone to send my 2930 in for service after describing that my player ( and now yours) was randomly freezing the picture on dvd's. They did ask me whether I did a factory reset. That didn't fix the problems unfortunately.

I've tried calling Denon USA for support this afternoon, however since I don't feel like sitting on hold for what I'm sure would be an hour wait (the recorded voice said there were 11 callers in front of me, sheesh, get some more people to answer the phone Denon!)

Issues with the 2500 and 3800 bumping their call volume.

I was told by a dealer than the Denon 2930 and 3930 major issue is the optical block failure. At least I know that my unit's problem was that. It took Denon two months to turn my unit around.

My dvd-3930 did stop last week after 15 month's to play some SACD's.
Some SACD's did play and some only just the cd content and not the DSD stream.

My solution was simple but dit take some time.

I did remove the top covers of the unit and also did remove the black cover above the lens.

Did clean the lens and replaced the covers.

Al SACD's played verry well again after the lens cleaning.

Maybe is this a solution for all others.

If the problem was a dirty lens, then isn't an easier solution to play one of those cleaning disks that have the tiny brushes on them? Seems a lot less risky than opening up the unit and doing it by hand.

Dutchman01:
How did you clean the lens? Compressd air or small brush?

I did use a liquid Lens Cleaner for the job.

If the problem was a dirty lens, then isn't an easier solution to play one of those cleaning disks that have the tiny brushes on them? Seems a lot less risky than opening up the unit and doing it by hand.yeah, I've often wondered how effective, and/or safe, one of these DVD "lens-cleaner" products are myself?
http://www.maxell-usa.com/index.aspx?id=63;73;556;0&a=info&pid=120

yeah, I've often wondered how effective, and/or safe, one of these DVD "lens-cleaner" products are myself?
http://www.maxell-usa.com/index.aspx?id=63;73;556;0&a=info&pid=120
That's the one I've got. I've used it on my prior Denon DVD 2900, but never on the '3930CI. I don't think it ever hurt it, but can't say for sure how effective it was, either.

If you get a hold of the right person in Denon customer service, they may either e-mail you a link to download and burn the update yourself, or maybe even ship you a disk. Mr. "Dutchman01" in this thread right a few posts back has also posted the European version of the firmware several times and most people who've reported downloading it from some file sharing service reported that it fixed their problems. Denon was supposed to have made the updates available on their website, but that never happened.

I and a few other people made the latest firmware for the 3930 available a few pages back; my post is here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13245878#post13245878).

This software is identical to that posted by Dutchman01, and is officially sanctioned for US players and was sent to me by "Denon Jeff" Talmadge with instructions to make it available to folks here.

kucharsk,

I don't know what you are doing with your link.

If you want to take over the Denon Firmware support from me, say so and it can be done.

What you are doing right is not funny.

You Say:

*I and a few other people made the latest firmware for the 3930 available a few pages back.


You only give a second link to the latest firmware but do you also give a downgrade firmware link if someone need it to go back to a urly version?

I don't think so.

Please remove your link we don't need it, the firmware was out there long before you did bring up your link.



You Say:
*and is officially sanctioned for US players.

I say:
BULL ****.

DENON JAPAN does make the firmware for all the units, and it's just
ONLY 1 pice.

That firmware is for WORLD Wide unit's out there.
They are all the same hardware my friend only europe models does get a extra connector on the back called Scart Connector.

So please don't tell bullshit to us.

Don't think you get points from me for your little support.

kucharsk,

I don't know what you are doing with your link.

If you want to take over the Denon Firmware support from me, say so and it can be done.

What you are doing right is not funny.

You Say:

*I and a few other people made the latest firmware for the 3930 available a few pages back.

You only give a second link to the latest firmware but do you also give a downgrade firmware link if someone need it to go back to a urly version?

I don't think so.

Please remove your link we don't need it, the firmware was out there long before you did bring up your link.

You Say:
*and is officially sanctioned for US players.

I say:
BULL ****.

DENON JAPAN does make the firmware for all the units, and it's just ONLY 1 pice.

That firmware is for WORLD Wide unit's out there.
They are all the same hardware my friend only europe models does get a extra connector on the back called Scart Connector.

So please don't tell bullshit to us.

Don't think you get points from me for your little support.

Dutchman,

Please calm down...
kucharsk is just trying to help out a fellow list member.
I can't tell if the firmware-file link that kucharsk posted in his previous post is an old firmware (you imply that he is offering a "downgrade") but he clearly states that "this updated my player from BE 8284, Make Day 711 to BE 8284-7, Make Day 802" -- a.k.a. the latest version (8284-7) at this point in time.

No one is trying to "take over" the "Denon Firmware support" from you, everyone's just trying to help each other out here.

Best regards,
hego99

Thanks for the advice. I'm glad to hear your 2930 is in great shape after you sent it in for repair, and that they went to the effort of putting the player through a heat run (did they tell you that they did this?) to make sure it's working perfectly. Your situation seemed to work out a lot better than a previous poster whose 2930 still wasn't working after it was sent in. I've still got another 6 months left on my warranty for my 2930, and the problems I've described previously have just started to manifest (I see the freezes randomly on CD's and DVD's, and the last two movies I watched back to back played without a hitch), so I'm going to wait a little while longer and see if the problems get more frequent before I send the player off to Jersey.

I've got a quick update regarding my 2930. I noticed over the weekend when I went to use the unit that it was all of a sudden in "demo mode" and I could do almost nothing with it. For example, the tray would not open when I pressed the open/close button - all it would say is "demo mode" on the display everytime I pressed the button. I have absolutely no idea how it got into that mode (maybe I sat on the remote by accident or something), nor what a seemingly useless mode is even for. Anyway, after doing a little research I discovered that I could "initialize" the player by pressing the Play and Fast Forward buttons at the same time. After doing this, the player completely reset back to factory defaults and was no longer in demo mode. After reprogramming the settings on the 2930 back to where I had them before, I popped in a movie and started watching. I've literally watched 4 whole movies on the player and I have not seen a single problem with the unit freezing or having problem skipping tracks like it was having before. I'm hoping this means that initializing the player corrected whatever problem was causing the freezes before. Has anyone else out there with a 2930 experienced something like this? My 2930 seems to be performing flawlessly; in addition to watching several whole DVD's I've tested out skipping tracks on each movie I watched and it works perfectly.

Hi to everyone and to you-Dutchman,
I have DENON 3930 in Premium Silver.

I had a problem yesterday with my above DENON:
After only of a few minutes of playing a brand new DVD disc, the picture was lost (?!) and the TV screen was full of green,red,.. colored lines sometimes even forming squares out of those lines (?!) This NEVER happened before with my very basic and very cheap DVD player which I had before above DENON.
After switching DENON off several times at the power switch, (resetting it?) the picture was fine.
The same problem happens with other DVD discs.
I am appalled.
I only had this DENON for 2 weeks in which I hardly used it.
Is this fault normal? What caused this fault ? (I was NOT pressing any buttons either on the remote or the unit prior to this fault occurring)
Could it be that BY PRESSING "PLAY" FROM THE STANDBY MODE I cause the glitch on my DENON 3930?


When playing CD, my 3930 stops and repeats some 2 seconds of music (?!) while in "NORMAL" or "PURE DIRECT" mode which has VIDEO output on (PURE DIRECT mode for watching DVD's).Otherwise CD playback is O.K. in "ALL OFF" or in the "PURE DIRECT" mode which has VIDEO output off (PURE DIRECT mode for listening to CD's).
I THINK THAT THE ABOVE PROBLEM/FREEZING PROBLEM IS CAUSED ONLY WHEN I PRESS ANY BUTTON (ON THE REMOTE OR ON THE DENON UNIT) FROM THE STANDBY MODE INSTEAD OF FIRSTLY SWITCHING IT ON AND THEN (AFTER SETTLING WHATEVER DENON HAS TO DO) PRESSING EITHER "PLAY" OR "STOP",...
Anyone experienced similar problems?
Any fixes for above problems?
Please help.

Thanks.

I THINK THAT THE ABOVE PROBLEM/FREEZING PROBLEM IS CAUSED ONLY WHEN I PRESS ANY BUTTON (ON THE REMOTE OR ON THE DENON UNIT) FROM THE STANDBY MODE INSTEAD OF FIRSTLY SWITCHING IT ON AND THEN (AFTER SETTLING WHATEVER DENON HAS TO DO) PRESSING EITHER "PLAY" OR "STOP",...yeah, this may be the cause, but I'm not 100% sure. The DVD-3930CI firmware may not like that particular sequence when playing it. I would definitely always first enable the ON/STANDBY button to "ON", then enable "PLAY".

Also, be very careful when enabling the PURE DIRECT "SELECT" button to select "NORMAL", "ALL OFF", etc.,...Make sure to step through these modes slowly, let the player switch to the next mode before enabling button.

If the behavior you describe continues after properly operating it then I would, first, check your firmware version, you may need to upgrade. Otherwise I would follow-up by contacting Denon Customer Service.

Also, you don't have to capitalize your comment (above) to get your point across, just annunciate properly:)

After only of a few minutes of playing a brand new DVD disc, the picture was lost (?!) and the TV screen was full of green,red,.. colored lines sometimes even forming squares out of those lines (?!)

Now that I think about it - my 3930 once did this once (several months ago)! Happened to me just before the disc started to play. The screen looked psychedelic :) Freaked me out. Anyway - I switched the HDMI knob on the front of the player back and forth a few times and it was suddenly fine. And has been good ever since. Some kind of weird glitch.

The DVD -3930 does have indeed some freeze lockups when playing withe the remote buttons for pure direct etc.

I really don't know what firmware version you have right now.

My DVD-3930 did have the same lackups in the past.
After the latest firmware including the Realto Update those bug is gone for me.

When playing a disc right now and playing with the pure direct buttons does not freeze my player again.

You said your DVD-3930 is now 2 weeks old,
Check your firmware version.

Yours should be:

BE 8284-7
Make Day 802
DSP 8250
IP 070518

If your IP shows 060802 than you must bring it in to the Denon Service Center.

If your firmware version is like BE 8284-6 or lower you can update the firmware by your self.

How to check your firmware:

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 (Remote) button to see various revision info.

Let us now your current firmware please.


If your firmware is the same as mine (AS IT SHOULD BE)
and still have the lockups contact Denon, at may be a Hardware fault or a BAD Unit.

Dutchman.

kucharsk,

I don't know what you are doing with your link.

If you want to take over the Denon Firmware support from me, say so and it can be done.

What you are doing right is not funny.

Dutchman01, take a breath and relax.

The link I posted leads to a firmware upgrade that patched my 3930 to the same version your patch did.

It was sent directly to me by DenonJeff, Denon USA's Jeff Talmadge.

When I told him it worked properly for me he told me to make it available for others on AVS.

That's it.

I'm not trying to replace you here or do anything "funny," just point people to it.

If you remember, in that thread I also posted the instructions he gave to do the upgrade which were neither as complete as yours, they didn't provide any type of feature list, either.

I was trying to be nice to DenonJeff and folks here, not be the purveyor of all future Denon firmware upgrades or anything like that.

Hi to everyone and to you-Dutchman,
I have DENON 3930 in Premium Silver.

I had a problem yesterday with my above DENON:
After only of a few minutes of playing a brand new DVD disc, the picture was lost (?!) and the TV screen was full of green,red,.. colored lines sometimes even forming squares out of those lines (?!) This NEVER happened before with my very basic and very cheap DVD player which I had before above DENON.
After switching DENON off several times at the power switch, (resetting it?) the picture was fine.
The same problem happens with other DVD discs.
I am appalled.
I only had this DENON for 2 weeks in which I hardly used it.
Is this fault normal? What caused this fault ? (I was NOT pressing any buttons either on the remote or the unit prior to this fault occurring)
Could it be that BY PRESSING "PLAY" FROM THE STANDBY MODE I cause the glitch on my DENON 3930?


When playing CD, my 3930 stops and repeats some 2 seconds of music (?!) while in "NORMAL" or "PURE DIRECT" mode which has VIDEO output on (PURE DIRECT mode for watching DVD's).Otherwise CD playback is O.K. in "ALL OFF" or in the "PURE DIRECT" mode which has VIDEO output off (PURE DIRECT mode for listening to CD's).
I THINK THAT THE ABOVE PROBLEM/FREEZING PROBLEM IS CAUSED ONLY WHEN I PRESS ANY BUTTON (ON THE REMOTE OR ON THE DENON UNIT) FROM THE STANDBY MODE INSTEAD OF FIRSTLY SWITCHING IT ON AND THEN (AFTER SETTLING WHATEVER DENON HAS TO DO) PRESSING EITHER "PLAY" OR "STOP",...
Anyone experienced similar problems?
Any fixes for above problems?
Please help.

Thanks.

I had the same problem one week after i got the unit but it never recovered from the problem. five minutes into a movie it would freak out. I exchanged the unit with the dealer who said it has happened before.

Also make sure your DVD-3930 is not placed above your receiver but below it.

I notice that the player stays much cooler on that way and function a lot better when it's cool.

Above my receiver it's running to hot.

My old Setup

http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm229/Dutchman01/DSCN0280.jpg

The DVD -3930 does have indeed some freeze lockups when playing withe the remote buttons for pure direct etc.

I really don't know what firmware version you have right now.

My DVD-3930 did have the same lackups in the past.
After the latest firmware including the Realto Update those bug is gone for me.

When playing a disc right now and playing with the pure direct buttons does not freeze my player again.

You said your DVD-3930 is now 2 weeks old,
Check your firmware version.

Yours should be:

BE 8284-7
Make Day 802
DSP 8250
IP 070518

If your IP shows 060802 than you must bring it in to the Denon Service Center.

If your firmware version is like BE 8284-6 or lower you can update the firmware by your self.

How to check your firmware:

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 (Remote) button to see various revision info.

Let us now your current firmware please.


If your firmware is the same as mine (AS IT SHOULD BE)
and still have the lockups contact Denon, at may be a Hardware fault or a BAD Unit.

Dutchman.
Many thanks Dutchman.
My display says:
BE 8284-8
MAKE DAY 111
DSP 8250
IP 060802

Is this ok? (Is my 3930 up to date with firmware?)
You mentioned that you had Realta upgrade.
Can Realta upgrade be done at home,or I have to send the unit back to Denon?

I have crackling noise when I play CD, so in order to get rid of it I have to switch the unit off than on several times.(?!)
My unit is under the receiver and it is cool.
I thought the problem is caused by pressing any button (either on the remote or on the unit like "PLAY" or "OPEN/CLOSE"),so I do not do it anymore.
Regardless, the crackling on the CD playback (not always) or freezed colours occur even when I switch DENON 3930 on from the standby mode firstly and then pressing "PLAY" or "OPEN/CLOSE" with the remote instead of pressing "PLAY" or "OPEN/CLOSE" in the standby mode.
I do not even touch "PURE DIRECT MODE", just in order not to rock the boat, and still it has had the above problems on several occasions.

Please help.
Thanks.

I have crackling noise when I play CD, so in order to get rid of it I have to switch the unit off than on several times.(?!)
My unit is under the receiver and it is cool.
I thought the problem is caused by pressing any button (either on the remote or on the unit like "PLAY" or "OPEN/CLOSE"),so I do not do it anymore.
Regardless, the crackling on the CD playback (not always) or freezed colours occur even when I switch DENON 3930 on from the standby mode firstly and then pressing "PLAY" or "OPEN/CLOSE" with the remote instead of pressing "PLAY" or "OPEN/CLOSE" in the standby modeyeah, this definitely does [not] sound good. If a firmware update does'nt "magically" fix these issues I would submit the unit directly to Denon Customer Service (New Jersey).

Many thanks Dutchman.
My display says:
BE 8284-8
MAKE DAY 111
DSP 8250
IP 060802

Is this ok? (Is my 3930 up to date with firmware?)
You mentioned that you had Realta upgrade.
Can Realta upgrade be done at home,or I have to send the unit back to Denon?

I have crackling noise when I play CD, so in order to get rid of it I have to switch the unit off than on several times.(?!)
My unit is under the receiver and it is cool.
I thought the problem is caused by pressing any button (either on the remote or on the unit like "PLAY" or "OPEN/CLOSE"),so I do not do it anymore.
Regardless, the crackling on the CD playback (not always) or freezed colours occur even when I switch DENON 3930 on from the standby mode firstly and then pressing "PLAY" or "OPEN/CLOSE" with the remote instead of pressing "PLAY" or "OPEN/CLOSE" in the standby mode.
I do not even touch "PURE DIRECT MODE", just in order not to rock the boat, and still it has had the above problems on several occasions.

Please help.
Thanks.

Damm boy you do have a brand new firmware (BE 8284-8) that one is not yet on the Denon support site. I dont know if that one has a bug or that that one is really better than latest we have (BE 8284-7)
What regio do you live?

I, Thougt europe because you got the premium silver one.

IP 060802 meens you got a older realta software than i have.
New Realta software is for europe customers important for the regio 2 DVD's
Read back this forum why it's there and other info about it.

Because of the newer firmware you have my advise is to contact you dealer for a replacement DVD-3930 or that you let it bring in to Denon Service center.

Next week i contact Denon to for more info about the Newer firmware you got on your DVD-3930.

If i have more info i report back to you, please let us know what you are going to do.

Sorry that i can't fix it for you.
Dutchman

does anyone here own the denon 5308ci receiver or avp-a1hdci pre/pro and compared its internal realta scaler to that of either the 2930 or 3930? i am wondering if it is superior or atleast equal in performance. thanks.

Someone else posted this, I can't remember who:

To check your firmware on the DVD-2930/3930:

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

I tried this a few times and didn't see anything on my TV screen before I realized the info shows up on the 2930's display.

Doooooh!!

I've got a quick update regarding my 2930. I noticed over the weekend when I went to use the unit that it was all of a sudden in "demo mode" and I could do almost nothing with it. For example, the tray would not open when I pressed the open/close button - all it would say is "demo mode" on the display everytime I pressed the button. I have absolutely no idea how it got into that mode (maybe I sat on the remote by accident or something), nor what a seemingly useless mode is even for. Anyway, after doing a little research I discovered that I could "initialize" the player by pressing the Play and Fast Forward buttons at the same time. After doing this, the player completely reset back to factory defaults and was no longer in demo mode. After reprogramming the settings on the 2930 back to where I had them before, I popped in a movie and started watching. I've literally watched 4 whole movies on the player and I have not seen a single problem with the unit freezing or having problem skipping tracks like it was having before. I'm hoping this means that initializing the player corrected whatever problem was causing the freezes before. Has anyone else out there with a 2930 experienced something like this? My 2930 seems to be performing flawlessly; in addition to watching several whole DVD's I've tested out skipping tracks on each movie I watched and it works perfectly.

*Bump* I gotta ask again since I got no reply to my question - has anyone else experienced a situation like mine (described above and in previous posts) with a 2930 where "initializing" the player fixed freezing problems? I've now watched 6 movies (3 of which were the extended edition Lord of the Rings movies - super long) in a row with no freezes or problems skipping tracks.

Damm boy you do have a brand new firmware (BE 8284-8) that one is not yet on the Denon support site. I dont know if that one has a bug or that that one is really better than latest we have (BE 8284-7)
What regio do you live?

I, Thougt europe because you got the premium silver one.

IP 060802 meens you got a older realta software than i have.
New Realta software is for europe customers important for the regio 2 DVD's
Read back this forum why it's there and other info about it.

Because of the newer firmware you have my advise is to contact you dealer for a replacement DVD-3930 or that you let it bring in to Denon Service center.

Next week i contact Denon to for more info about the Newer firmware you got on your DVD-3930.

If i have more info i report back to you, please let us know what you are going to do.

Sorry that i can't fix it for you.
Dutchman
Thanks everyone.
I am extremely upset that Denon UK (I live in London) did NOT inform me about the update for the Realta chip.They also did not even provide any information about my Denon (for example Dutchman's instructions how to find out what software is on my Denon).If it was not for this forum and you-Dutchman, I would be still in the dark.
Now I have to go through the extreme nuisance by unhooking all the cables,taking the unit out and send it to the dealer (can I send it to Denon directly?).
Is Denon supposed to pay for my shipping costs? Did they pay it for you Dutchman?
Thanks.

Also make sure your DVD-3930 is not placed above your receiver but below it. I notice that the player stays much cooler on that way and function a lot better when it's cool. Above my receiver it's running to hot.your old set-up image shows good distance between the top of your receiver and your DVD-3930CI above, I'm surprised it still became too hot.

your old set-up image shows good distance between the top of your receiver and your DVD-3930CI above, I'm surprised it still became too hot.

The Denon AVR-4306 can generate a lot of heat. I have my 2930 placed above it by about the same distance, and the AVR can really warm-up the player's bottom plate after some time.

Thanks everyone.
I am extremely upset that Denon UK (I live in London) did NOT inform me about the update for the Realta chip.They also did not even provide any information about my Denon (for example Dutchman's instructions how to find out what software is on my Denon).If it was not for this forum and you-Dutchman, I would be still in the dark.
Now I have to go through the extreme nuisance by unhooking all the cables,taking the unit out and send it to the dealer (can I send it to Denon directly?).
Is Denon supposed to pay for my shipping costs? Did they pay it for you Dutchman?
Thanks.


Great that you live in europe too
I Thougt so

I'm living at the Netherlands on the other site of the water.

You must contact Denon UK at the telephone and tel them about the Realta update we are talking about here.

Denon UK Must know about this.

That Upgrade is compleetly free if you bougt your unit from a official Denon Dealer also No shipping cost for you than.

Only contact them as i did at holland to.
If i didn't read german forum i did also not know about the Realta update.

It looks like Denon is not happy to share that info with us.

Dutchman.

The Denon AVR-4306 can generate a lot of heat. I have my 2930 placed above it by about the same distance, and the AVR can really warm-up the player's bottom plate after some time.
I see, maybe I should consider rotating my set-up. I have my NAD T175 processor just below my DVD-3930CI with about 1.5in of top breathing space. They are sitting on glass shelves that do eventually get warm. It's just so much work for me moving things around, my wiring would have to be re-routed (I'm real anal about making wiring clean:)), could take a few weeks.

Thanks for your input!

I see, maybe I should consider rotating my set-up. I have my NAD T175 processor just below my DVD-3930CI with about 1.5in of top breathing space. They are sitting on glass shelves that do eventually get warm. It's just so much work for me moving things around, my wiring would have to be re-routed (I'm real anal about making wiring clean:)), could take a few weeks.

Thanks for your input!

Nice rack you have Westcoast,

Tought you also did have a Denon Receiver or Pre/Pro:)

That Nad is really nothing for you:):):)

Yes AVR-4306 spread a lot of head and i moved my 3930 below it some weeks ago. it's stay's pretty cool right now.

Nice rack you have Westcoastthanks!

That Nad is really nothing for youyeah, the NAD definitely runs cooler than the Yamaha RX-V2700 I used as pre-pro before. I guess this is partly because the Yamaha receiver has built-in amps and the NAD (pre-pro) does not. Although I do notice the glass shelf, above the NAD, does get fairly warm after some time of operation.

WestCoastD

Will be the new Pre Pro From Denon nothing for you!!!

LOL

If i did have the money for them......

Big Smile i have.

Will be the new Pre Pro From Denon nothing for you!!! If i did have the money for them......
Big Smile i have.yeah, big smile I have too:D

Actually I really like the new Denon AVP-A1HDCI, http://usa.denon.com/ProductDetails/3922.asp
but $7000.00 USD is just too much

I'm very curious how good 2-channel stereo is?

Thanks everyone.
I am extremely upset that Denon UK (I live in London) did NOT inform me about the update for the Realta chip.They also did not even provide any information about my Denon (for example Dutchman's instructions how to find out what software is on my Denon).If it was not for this forum and you-Dutchman, I would be still in the dark.
Now I have to go through the extreme nuisance by unhooking all the cables,taking the unit out and send it to the dealer (can I send it to Denon directly?).
Is Denon supposed to pay for my shipping costs? Did they pay it for you Dutchman?
Thanks.
Thanks.
If you or anyone has difficulty in getting the 3930 firmware BE 8284-8 from Denon, I will gladly provide it for you guys, but in such case you will have to tell me how to upload it on your website or send it to you via email.
I have the DVI input on my TV connected to the HDMI output of my above DENON.
My understanding is that there are 3 different types of video formats available through HDMI output of my above DENON: YCbCr or RGB or PC Res.
Could you please advise me what type of format through HDMI connection is the best (considering that my TV can support all 3 formats):
YCbCr or RGB or PC Res?
My understanding from the Denon manual is that PC resolution is the best because it is listed as the first option.
(Denon manual recommends on the page 29 :"...Set to YCbCr or RGB if the TV monitor is NOT compatible with Computer (PC) resolutions.)
Please advise whether PC resolution is the best connection option out of all 3 options.

Is the frequency of the 3930's output 60 Hz in ALL 3 above formats? (How come it is not higher or even 100 Hz?)

Regards.

*Bump* I gotta ask again since I got no reply to my question - has anyone else experienced a situation like mine (described above and in previous posts) with a 2930 where "initializing" the player fixed freezing problems? I've now watched 6 movies (3 of which were the extended edition Lord of the Rings movies - super long) in a row with no freezes or problems skipping tracks.

My 2930 has frozen up a few times. It usually occurred when I pressed the buttons on the remote in too rapid a sequence. I have been able it get it working again by tunning the power off and on (little power button). I don't believe I ever had to reinitialize the player.
As long as your 2930 is playing OK now, I wouldn't worry about it.

Thanks.
If you or anyone has difficulty in getting the 3930 firmware BE 8284-8 from Denon, I will gladly provide it for you guys,

Did you get the BE 8284-8 firmware from the Denon web site? Do you know if there is also a new firmware for the 2930?

Did you get the BE 8284-8 firmware from the Denon web site? Do you know if there is also a new firmware for the 2930?

So I did contact Denon today and they send me over email the DVD-3930CI_DVD3930 Firmware version BE-8284-8

Short Change log, more details will follow.

*SACD Playback Improofment.
*Little other Changes.

As in the past, all other firmware fixes are also in this Firmware.

Firmware is for all DVD-3930CI and DVD-3930 player's around the world at all regio's.

Here's the link with English PDF with instructions.

http://rapidshare.com/files/103009176/GEN8284-8_111_DVD-3930CI_and_DVD-3930.zip

Have a nice day.


My Display Right Now

BE 8284-8
Make Day 111
DSP 8250
IP 070518

Dutchman01

My 2930 has frozen up a few times. It usually occurred when I pressed the buttons on the remote in too rapid a sequence. I have been able it get it working again by tunning the power off and on (little power button). I don't believe I ever had to reinitialize the player.
As long as your 2930 is playing OK now, I wouldn't worry about it.

My thoughts exactly. Thanks for the confirmation!

I have a DVD-3930 connected to a Pioneer plasma PDP-507 via HDMI.

After experimenting with the different resolutions I have found that 480i or 480p gives the best picture with my display. Both 720p and 1080i (the latter being the resolution selected by the player if I set the HDMI to "auto") result in a certain lack of sharpness and clarity that I cannot seem to compensate for by tweaking the sharpness settings. I guess the display has excellent scaling and/or de-interlacing capabilities.

So, I'm happy with the 480 resolution with one exception:

Every once in a while (3-4 times during a film) the picture will become jerky for a brief moment. Sound is normal. There seem to be no special conditions that cause this, it's completely unpredictable. I thought it was only during camera pans, but have recently seen it also for example when a person moves while the camera remains still. After a few seconds the picture returns to normal.

In the beginning I used a component connection set to 480p and I believe I saw the same thing then as well, but will have to check again as I switched to HDMI quite soon.

Does anyone have a similar problem and/or any ideas on how it might be corrected?

Thanks in advance for any help!

Mitch

Well, after struggling with this problem for almost a year, including getting a new player and having it sent in for the update to the Realta processor, Denon has not been able to solve this for me, and the end conclusion was that the processor simply behaves like this.

The only setting that worked for NTSC films was 480i through component, which is the one setting that bypasses the Realta completely, according to the block scheme. Every other setting produced the occasional jerking/juddering fault. (This is not the kind of judder seen in pans as a result of there only being 24 fps to begin with).

My dealer was kind enough to take the player back and I am now the happy owner of a brand new AVR-3808.

I am, however, surprised that this problem is not more commonly noticed, especially in NTSC-land, if this is an inherent flaw in the Realta. My dealer suggested that perhaps most people accept it (occurring "so rarely"), possibly as a trade-off for the Realta's excellent performance in other respects, or simply do not notice it.

Maybe it's a result of some sort of incompatibility between the Realta and the scaler in the Pioneer plasma?

I'd be interested to hear what anyone else thinks about this, especially if there is anyone out there using the 3930 with a Pioneer 7th generation plasma.

So now I'm back to using my old DVD-2900, which plays NTSC flawlessly over component at 480p. I must say, though, that the 3930 was noticeably better at audio; CD, SACD and DVDA.

Mitch

PS. It's now clear to me why the 720p and 1080i settings produced a picture that was lacking in sharpness. Since the Pioneer's native resolution is 768, these settings lead to the picture being processed twice, once by the player and then by the TV, instead of letting the TV deal with upscaling to its native resolution. I do not know if the Realta behaves as describes above at 720p or 1080i, or 1080p for that matter.

I have noticed on many movies on dvd played with the 3930 that when there is a camera pan, it looks slightly like a strobe effect...has anyone else noticed this? Is this what you are all talking about with the Realta upgrade (which I don't have)? If not what am I experiencing? My signal is going out at 1080p to the Epson 1080 projector.

Also, how would we get the Realta upgrade, there is no service center near me.

The problem I was experiencing did not happen exclusively when the camera pans, but also in other situations, for example when people began moving after having stayed still, but with the camera locked. As mentioned in my original post, this would happen 3-4 times during every NTSC movie I watched on the 3930.

If I went back and played the scene again, it would play perfectly.

As for the upgrade, as Dutchman01 has mentioned before, you need to send the player in to Denon. It' s only supposed to have an effect on PAL sources, anyway.

Mitch

Does Denon Link only affect for SACD / DVD-A. Has anyone tried to play regular CD over Denon Link and compared to CD over Coax/optical out?


thanks.

Does Denon Link only affect for SACD / DVD-A. Has anyone tried to play regular CD over Denon Link and compared to CD over Coax/optical out?
Any audio format can be played over DenonLink, it's just that it's favored for SACD/DVD-A because it's the "cleanest" possible digital signal path between compatible Denon components and now provides a multi-channel digital signal path for SACD, something that wasn't always available.
To my ears, when comparing DenonLink and coaxial/optical, DenonLink sounds somewhat warmer and richer. On the other hand, for two-channel CD music, I generally use the stereo analog outputs from my 3930CI to my AVR3808CI to take advantage of the superior DACs and Advanced AL24 processing from the 3930ci.

Thanks, s2silber.

The reason i'm asking because i have AVR-3805. I'm looking at either 3910 or 2930. I already have dedicated 2 channels. However, this is something for HT and general music. In that case i probably look at Oppo 980H since using optical out will be the same because 3805 will decode the signal.

Thanks, s2silber.

The reason i'm asking because i have AVR-3805. I'm looking at either 3910 or 2930. I already have dedicated 2 channels. However, this is something for HT and general music. In that case i probably look at Oppo 980H since using optical out will be the same because 3805 will decode the signal.

Hi michaelv,

I have a 3805 and the 3930. So, I have have the same challenge that you do...no HDMI on the 3805 to accept the full res digital signal from the 3930 with one simple wire...

I have tried my system with both the DenonLink and the Optical Digital connections, and I can say that Denonlink sounds superior to the Optical Digital for DVD-A and SACD. Since the processor is in the 3805 is the same, regardless of input, I would assume its based on the higher data rates that can be sent over the DenonLink cable.

One very important point to note. I do not believe that SACD source can be sent over the Digital Optical cable. So you would need to use the analog outs to listen to SACDs, if you get a player without DenonLink. (I'm not home right now, so I can't verify, but I seem to remember that when I was playing around with the initial set up).

As far as standard CD's go, I think they sound slighltly better via DenonLink, but its not a very significant difference. (double blind and with the time in between to switch I doubt I could consistently ID the input).

The biggest advantage of Denonlink is one short cable between the players, that will pass all the signals for all of the sources.

That said. I agree with s2sibler. The analog outputs on the 3930 produce sound that is warmer and cleaner that the processing done by the 3805. As he noted, this is probably due to the superior processing capabilites of the DACs (and isolation of the audio components) in the 3930....but given the rat's nest of cables to set up 7.1 ... I just use the 3930's analogs for 2 channel, and listen to all multichannel through the DenonLink.

I have had one problem with DenonLink. When listening to CD's or DVDs with HDMI on on the 3930, but the TV off, I do get audio drop outs. I think that one of the devices is trying to do some sort of HDMI handshake that interupts the DenonLink. Its not a problem when the TV is on, or if I turn off the HDMI output the 3930, just a small pain in the ... but its probably unique to my HDMI devices and switch, since I've not seen others mention it in this forum.

As I recall, the 2930 has the same DAC's as the 3805, and the 3910 has the better DACs than the 3805. So, you might not notice a difference with the audio with the 2930 with the 3805, in either configuration. In theory, the 3910 audio should be best through the analog inputs, but I've never heard one to compare.

On the video side, set up with a 50in Panasonic plasma, the Oppo 981 is pretty good...much better than most, but the 3930 has a noticably better picture than the Oppo. If you are interested in the Oppo, you may want to look at their new 983. It is supposed to have better video and audio than the 981.

Good luck

Dave

I do not believe that SACD source can be sent over the Digital Optical cable. So you would need to use the analog outs to listen to SACDs, if you get a player without DenonLinkyeah, SACD can only be sent through multi-channel analog OUT's, Denon-Link, or HDMI (v1.2a)


The analog outputs on the 3930 produce sound that is warmer and cleaner that the processing done by the 3805.exactly how I feel, I love the 2ch OUT's for CD.


... I just use the 3930's analogs for 2 channel, and listen to all multichannel through the DenonLink.good scenario


If you are interested in the Oppo, you may want to look at their new 983. It is supposed to have better video and audio than the 981yeah, I've read that the (new) Oppo DV-983H video-quality rivals the DVD-3930CI's Realta-based picture-quality. Not bad for $400.00 . I use an Oppo DV-980H as my secondary player (to my DVD-3930CI), SACD via-HDMI (PCM) sounds absolutely beautiful.

Did you get the BE 8284-8 firmware from the Denon web site? Do you know if there is also a new firmware for the 2930?

Hi. I got from Denon U.K. the BE 8284-8 firmware for my 3930.
I phoned them up.
(Of, course it did not go smoothly- I had to order it twice, and not to mention that Denon U.K. never responds to any of my emails.Why did they put their email adress on their website,I wonder.)

I am sorry, but I do not know about firmware for the 2930.
All the best.

Damm boy you do have a brand new firmware (BE 8284-8) that one is not yet on the Denon support site. I dont know if that one has a bug or that that one is really better than latest we have (BE 8284-7)
What regio do you live?

I, Thougt europe because you got the premium silver one.

IP 060802 meens you got a older realta software than i have.
New Realta software is for europe customers important for the regio 2 DVD's
Read back this forum why it's there and other info about it.

Because of the newer firmware you have my advise is to contact you dealer for a replacement DVD-3930 or that you let it bring in to Denon Service center.

Next week i contact Denon to for more info about the Newer firmware you got on your DVD-3930.

If i have more info i report back to you, please let us know what you are going to do.

Sorry that i can't fix it for you.
Dutchman
Thanks.
If you or anyone has difficulty in getting the 3930 firmware BE 8284-8 from Denon, I will gladly provide it for you guys, but in such case you will have to tell me how to upload it on your website or send it to you via email.
I have the DVI input on my TV connected to the HDMI output of my above DENON.
My understanding is that there are 3 different types of video formats available through HDMI output of my above DENON: YCbCr or RGB or PC Res.
Could you please advise me what type of format through HDMI connection is the best (considering that my TV can support all 3 formats):
YCbCr or RGB or PC Res?
My understanding from the Denon manual is that PC resolution is the best because it is listed as the first option.
(Denon manual recommends on the page 29 :"...Set to YCbCr or RGB if the TV monitor is NOT compatible with Computer (PC) resolutions.)
Please advise whether PC resolution is the best connection option out of all 3 options.

Is the frequency of the 3930's output 60 Hz in ALL 3 above formats? (How come it is not higher or even 100 Hz?)

Regards.

I am new to this thread. Can someone tell me if there is a big difference in sound quality between 2930 or 3930 which is to be connected to AVR 5308ci?

I am new to this thread. Can someone tell me if there is a big difference in sound quality between 2930 or 3930 which is to be connected to AVR 5308ci?

Will you be connecting the player via Denon Link? If so, then the result should sound exactly the same since the 5308CI would do the substantial DSP work and D/A conversion.

Stay away from the 2930 if your plan is to feed the 5308CI with a 480i signal. Its 480i output is not a pure one, and therefore makes external video processors perform badly. Perhaps a 3930 owner can check and see if this is an issue with that player as well.

Using the 3930 may be redundant from a video perspective, as the 5308CI also features the Realta video processor and seems to provide very similar adjustments.

From an analog audio perspective, I couldn't tell you how the 3930's analog output sounds in overall fidelity in comparison to the 5308CI. You would have to determine that for yourself.

In short, I probably just made your decision for a DVD player much harder. :D

dziony,
Thanks for the input. About 2 channel music,I already have a dedicated one. So, I am just trying to justify the cost between good video and good audio. I guess i would go with reasonable cost dvd player so that i can enjoy DVD collections as well as general music listening.
I first decide to get 980H , but i think with a few more bucks, i can get 2910 which would give me good video and music. For music, i don't listen to SACD anyway.

It's tough choice. :)

thanks.

[QUOTE=michaelv;13504828]dziony,

I first decide to get 980H , but i think with a few more bucks, i can get 2910 which would give me good video and music. For music, i don't listen to SACD anyway.
QUOTE]

The 2910 does not have DenonLink, so don't get that model, if that's the key feature for you.

Thanks.
If you or anyone has difficulty in getting the 3930 firmware BE 8284-8 from Denon, I will gladly provide it for you guys, but in such case you will have to tell me how to upload it on your website or send it to you via email.



Did host it all ready so everyone can get it.


Again the link for DVD-3930 Firmware BE-8284-8 with instructions manual:

http://rapidshare.com/files/103009176/GEN8284-8_111_DVD-3930CI_and_DVD-3930.zip

Do you think if I buy 2930ci it will play as good as 3930ci using HDMI or 5.1 or denonlink? Or I should buy 3930ci to get the its full feature. I am after the sound quality because it will be hooked up to AVR 5308ci.

Do you think if I buy 2930ci it will play as good as 3930ci using HDMI or 5.1 or denonlink? Or I should buy 3930ci to get the its full feature. I am after the sound quality because it will be hooked up to AVR 5308ci.
Using the denon link it should make no difference. Save your money and go with the 2930.
However if you use the analog outputs, the 3930 has somewhat better DACs.

Did host it all ready so everyone can get it.


Again the link for DVD-3930 Firmware BE-8284-8 with instructions manual:


Hi Dutchman:
Did you notice any differences in the performance of your 3930 with the new firmware?

it looks to me here that the 3930 is a little faster with SACD reading.
When i close the door with a sacd it's about 1 sec faster than before.

For the rest of it, it's hard to notice differents compared to the 8284-7 firmware.

did play just one dvd so far so testing is my only advise.

I just leave the 8284-7 firmware link intact, if the BE8284-8 is not so good you may can flash back to 8284-7 if you want.

for now i don't have trouble with it so i stay BE 8284-8.

I will Report later after good testing in this forum.

Once again, Denon comes out with new firmware but doesn't make it convenient to obtain it. I can't understand why they can't (won't) put it on the website.:confused::mad:

Once again, Denon comes out with new firmware but doesn't make it convenient to obtain it. I can't understand why they can't (won't) put it on the websiteI know, it totally blows my mind. They design, market, and manufacture these high-precision, micro-controller based, components with very elaborate, meticulous, software. These unit's are then carefully controlled and distributed to dealers for retail sale. However the subsequent firmware updates are somehow, loosely, distributed to the "street" like illegal drugs:confused:

I agree 100% - it blows my mind too.
It will be interesting to see how soon the Blu-ray guys get their firmware updates they are currently waiting for - and whether or not Denon will host them.

I know, it totally blows my mind. They design, market, and manufacture these high-precision, micro-controller based, components with very elaborate, meticulous, software. These unit's are then carefully controlled and distributed to dealers for retail sale. However the subsequent firmware updates are somehow, loosely, distributed to the "street" like illegal drugs:confused:

That's a funny assessment, yet it's so true.

Now that the Blu-ray format is about to exist in full force, Denon needs to get its act together with regards to existing products. Building nice-looking components isn't going to get them anywhere when software updates are infrequent and difficult for the average user to obtain. Right now it seems that Pioneer and Panasonic will easily overtake Denon when it comes to selling Blu-ray players. There's currently a small timeframe for them to correct this major problem.

I read earlier in the thread that there is an update for the Realta chip, can anyone tell me how to get it for my 3930, and what it does?

I read earlier in the thread that there is an update for the Realta chip, can anyone tell me how to get it for my 3930, and what it does?

First of all, do a firmware check on your machine (instructions elsewhere in this thread).
If your display says "IP 070518" you already have the latest Realta-firmware.

If not, the only way to get the update for the Realta chip is to send your unit in to Denon, preferably via an authorized Denon re-seller.
Hope this helps!
(My unit came delivered with "IP 070518", but I know that Dutchman sent his unit in to get it fixed/updated.)

EDIT:
Forgot to answer your question about "what it does".
I don't remember exactly (answer is in this thread, between page 94 and here) but it had something to do with PAL/NTSC.
This is a link to Dutchman's post (on page 94) where he announced his Realta Chip software upgrade:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=11232080#post11232080
NB: although a firmware check shows the Realta Chip software version ID (IPxxxxxx) this can not be upgraded with a regular firmware update.

Right now it seems that Pioneer and Panasonic will easily overtake Denon when it comes to selling Blu-ray players. There's currently a small timeframe for them to correct this major problem.this may be very true. Seems Denon has bitten-off too much to chew, at least that's what it feels like to me. I hope they can pull it together...........

If anyone gets the newest 2930 firmware please let us know!

This is a link to Dutchman's post (on page 94) where he announced his Realta Chip software upgradeinteresting that he (Dutchman) claims the Realta upgrade yielded better picture than before. I was reading on the DVD-3800BDCI "Owners" thread from a few users that, supposedly, it's (Realta-based) processor has more improved picture-quality for SD DVD than the DVD-3930CI. If this is true I wonder if it is because it (only) has a more upgraded firmware for the (same) Realta chip?

Did host it all ready so everyone can get it.


Again the link for DVD-3930 Firmware BE-8284-8 with instructions manual:

http://rapidshare.com/files/103009176/GEN8284-8_111_DVD-3930CI_and_DVD-3930.zip


This link reports:
"This account is expired at Thu, 13. Mar 2008. Extend your account right now and continue using RapidShare PREMIUM!?

This link reports:
"This account is expired at Thu, 13. Mar 2008. Extend your account right now and continue using RapidShare PREMIUM!?

The link works fine for me. Try again.
With RapidShare you either have a prepaid account, or use it for free with limited access using "downloading tickets" where you have to wait 1 minute and are limited to one download per hour or so.
Could be a browser problem (with the d/l ticket time countdown), what browser are you using?
Anyway, there's nothing wrong with Dutchman's link.

If anyone gets the newest 2930 firmware please let us know!

maphiker,

Have you heard any rumors or specifics about a 2930 firmware update?

i have one too and it has no problems, but if there is something out there...

maphiker,

Have you heard any rumors or specifics about a 2930 firmware update?

i have one too and it has no problems, but if there is something out there...

I have not heard anything. However in the past, firmware updates have been released for both players simultaneously. We can wait until the updates appear on the UK Denon site, assuming they will post them there, or we can try to get someone at Denon to send us a copy.

I will keep looking at the Denon site. If nothing happens soon I will try to contact Denon. :)

interesting that he (Dutchman) claims the Realta upgrade yielded better picture than before. I was reading on the DVD-3800BDCI "Owners" thread from a few users that, supposedly, it's (Realta-based) processor has more improved picture-quality for SD DVD than the DVD-3930CI. If this is true I wonder if it is because it (only) has a more upgraded firmware for the (same) Realta chip?


We at europe did have a problem with the PAL DVD at AUTO mode and big screens.

It give's us basicly Ghosting effects and little artefacts when playing PAL DVD's, with NTSC DVD's no problem.

The fixed this with the new realta firmware.

I did mention before the 3930 and 3930CI are all the same.
You people in USA etc. use NTSC we at Europe the better picture PAL.
Main problem is NTSC is most used and Denon did focus to mutch on NTSC and that was the same story with the makers from the Realta chip.
thats why we did have that bug.

New Firmware was made to make PAL auto mode better.

New Firmware was made to make PAL auto mode better.I see, thanks for clarifying that Dutchman.

I've been experimenting with my new set-up for a while now using the new NAD T175surround-processor, DVD-3930CI, Oppo DV-980H, etc.,...

I'm using HDMI for watching DVD-Movies from the DVD-3930CI. In the DIGITAL INTERFACE SETUP menu I have my HDMI AUDIO SETUP menu item set for "MULTI (NORMAL)". Seems to provide nice multi-channel surround for DolbyDigital soundtracks, etc.,...

However when I play multi-channel SACD's or DVD-A's via-5.1ch analog OUT's it only outputs as 2-channel stereo. So I kept playing around with menu settings. I finally found that when re-setting HDMI AUDIO SETUP menu item back to "2CH" I can now get full multi-channel sound from the 5.1 analog OUT's. Also "source direct" function comes into affect as well providing one hell of a boost! I had to turn my system down (like 6dB or 8dB), but bass was huge!

I'm still a little confused though whether this is the proper way to operate things. Should I have to go into DIGITAL INTERFACE SETUP menu and re-set HDMI AUDIO SETUP item from "2CH" back to "MULTI (NORMAL)" everytime I want to watch a DVD-movie via-HDMI? And then vice-versa for listening to multi-channel SACD's via-5.1ch analog OUT's?

Anyone else aware of this scenario?

We at europe did have a problem with the PAL DVD at AUTO mode and big screens....The fixed this with the new realta firmware...New firmware was made to make PAL auto mode better.,
So, then...for those of us in the U.S. who never use PAL, is there really any reason to upgrade from Version 7 to the Version 8 firmware?