Tandrin:

I believe the prices are low because dealers are trying to unload these players in anticipation of newer models.

There wont be any newer SD models. Just BD models w/ SD capability. The 2930/3930 are the last of the SD DVD breed (IMHO).

Trying to play Billy Idol-Storyteller DVD (Region 2,3,4,5,6).

Will the 3930 convert PAL to NTSC?

I found a Region hack for the 3930, but now it seems my TV will not recognize the signal, which I think is PAL.

Help?:)

In the main settings, set your TV type to NTSC (assuming that is what you have).

There wont be any newer SD models. Just BD models w/ SD capability. The 2930/3930 are the last of the SD DVD breed (IMHO).

Hi John. I agree with you. I hope future, affordable BluRay players have "universal" capabilities, i.e. SACD and DVD-A. I know about the Oppo. Now we need others. :)

maphiker,

Thanks...

I did as you suggested and it works.

The 3930 was set to MULTI, which sounds like it should play everything, but I guess not.

Should leaving it on NTSC affect the PQ on other disks?
:)

maphiker,

Thanks...

I did as you suggested and it works.

The 3930 was set to MULTI, which sounds like it should play everything, but I guess not.

Should leaving it on NTSC affect the PQ on other disks?
:)

Glad it worked! How was the PQ on your PAL disc?
As for leaving the setting on NTSC, I think the PQ would be fine. You could always get a test disc and make a comparison. :D

BTW, the remote has a PAL/NTSC button. I don't know if it has the same effect as the menu setting. Maybe you can tell us what it does?

maphiker,

I was a little disappointed with the converted Billy Idol PQ (OK, but not great), buit I have no real reference since I can't play it in PAL.

I've learned that the MULTI setting does not convert, whereas the NTSC setting converts PAL to NTSC (DOH!).

I've been told that from PAL to NTSC is a down-sampling technique. Does that mean we should expect a slight decrease in PQ?

As to the PAL/NTSC button, my 3930 remote has been acting up lately (it decides when it wants to cooperate), so I started using the other remote that came with my 5308. It does not have all the functions, but enough to play disks.

Thanks again for your help.

:)

I wonder what's going on with the SACD playback. I just swapped out my '3930 with the dealer because I was getting lock-ups. On the previous player, the Advanced AL24 Processing light on the player never lit up when I played an SACD disk. I assume that was because AL24 is designed to be applied only to PCM signals. However, on my new unit AL 24 does light up with SACD's.
Anyone know what's up with that?

Here is a definitive solution to your problem of the Advanced AL24 light coming on when playing the multi or stereo DSD layer of a SACD on your DVD-3930CI player. The reason the light is coming on is becuase you have the player set to filter freqencies about 50kHz for SACD. This means that one of the filters in the Advanced AL24 processing group is being used to filter above 50kHz. To get the purest sound from SACD's you must set it to NO FILTER or "100kHz" on the audio setup screen. To change it to "100kHz" do the following:

1. Press "Setup" on the remote
2. Press the right arrow button until you get to the "Audio" tab (on screen menu)
3. Press the down arrow button until you get to the "Source Direct"
4. Select the "100kHz" option in "Source Direct" (see page 23 in the Operating Instruction Manual)

Now the Advanced AL24 processing light turns OFF when you play the multi or stereo DSD layer of SACD disc. No you can listen to SACD's the way there were truly meant to be heard WITHOUT ANY FILTERS OF ANY KIND!! ENJOY!!!

Now the Advanced AL24 processing light turns OFF when you play the multi or stereo DSD layer of SACD disc. No you can listen to SACD's the way there were truly meant to be heard WITHOUT ANY FILTERS OF ANY KIND!! ENJOY!!!this is precisely how I have my unit configured for playing SACD, and DTS, and DVD-A titles. It sounds beautiful!

1. Press "Setup" on the remote
2. Press the right arrow button until you get to the "Audio" tab (on screen menu)
3. Press the down arrow button until you get to the "Source Direct"
4. Select the "100kHz" option in "Source Direct" (see page 23 in the Operating Instruction Manual)

Now the Advanced AL24 processing light turns OFF when you play the multi or stereo DSD layer of SACD disc. No you can listen to SACD's the way there were truly meant to be heard WITHOUT ANY FILTERS OF ANY KIND!! ENJOY!!!

I can not access "Source Direct" on the audio menu. I am using the D-link. Are you using the analog outs?

I can not access "Source Direct" on the audio menu. I am using the D-link. Are you using the analog outs?

The reason is that you need to deselect Multichannel in the HDMI setup to 2Ch.
then you will be able to access "Source Direct"

The reason is that you need to deselect Multichannel in the HDMI setup to 2Ch.
then you will be able to access "Source Direct"

I am using the Denon-Link for SACD audio. The AL24 does not light up and "Source Direct" is not selectable regardless of the HDMI setting. I believe the Denon Link sends the DSD directly to the receiver, no filtering by the player is possible.

Sorry, if I am confusing everyone. :) I have the 2930, perhaps the 3930 is different in this regard.

I recently picked up a really nice non-working 2930ci on eBay (about a two year old player in excellent cosmetic condition that was no longer reading discs). I also bought the replacement laser head on eBay at the same time since I figured that was probably the cause of the problem. When the unit arrived, I tried cleaning the laser lens first, but it did not help. Went ahead and replaced the laser head (which is not hard at all if you have some electronics experience) and the unit now works like a brand new machine. All for less than $100 and about an hour of work.

This is one impressive up-scaler, that's for sure. I have the new Oppo BDP-83, and I think the Denon is a bit better at DVD playback (they are very close to each other in upscaling performance, though).

All for less than $100 and about an hour of work.

Awesome! :cool:

This is one impressive up-scaler, that's for sure. I have the new Oppo BDP-83, and I think the Denon is a bit better at DVD playback (they are very close to each other in upscaling performance, though).

Upscaling is close to bluray IMHO.

Upscaling is close to bluray IMHO.

Well, no not really. A good Blu-ray disc still easily smokes even the best looking upscaled DVD's... at least it does on a screen large enough to notice the difference. I'm about 10 ft. from a 62" 1080p DLP and the difference is between Blu-ray and standard DVD is obvious.

Of course, it's also easier to see the differences between upscaling DVD players on larger screens, too.

Like I said, the Denon is very impressive. The Oppo BDP-83 is also one of the best upscaling DVD players I've seen.

Upscaling is close to bluray IMHO.


Well, no not really. A good Blu-ray disc still easily smokes even the best looking upscaled DVD's... at least it does on a screen large enough to notice the difference. I'm about 10 ft. from a 62" 1080p DLP and the difference is between Blu-ray and standard DVD is obvious.


FWIW, I agree with maphiker; but then I mainly use a Denon 5910ci player for my DVD upscaling (due to current MAJOR hardware shuffling, my 2930ci player is not being used (for the moment)).

FWIW#2, at the moment the 5910ci is being closed out at one fourth of it's original list thru Amazon via two of the best long time authorized Denon dealers (ListenUp and Crutchfield); a truly *great* universal player.

Curious how new technology (in this case Blu-ray) has come to distort most American's view of what does and doesn't have value.

Don't get me wrong as I've done professional large data base software all of my professional life, so I've good insight into new technology and exactly what "bleeding edge" means.

Also, screen size is relative; depends on how close you sit. e.g. I sit 4.5' from my new 37" 1080p LCD flatscreen TV.

I also use a 3rd gen Toshiba A35 HD-DVD player, so I *do* have current experience with what recent/decent high def players can do with a good HD TV.

IMHO, Blu-ray will go the same way as Beta; pretty much for the exact same reasons: too high price combined with DVD being more than good enough for most people along with having fewer protection problems than with the bloody (and expensive) Blu-ray copy protection.

Of course, it's also easier to see the differences between upscaling DVD players on larger screens, too.

Like I said, the Denon is very impressive. The Oppo BDP-83 is also one of the best upscaling DVD players I've seen.


I like OPPO, but the BDP-83 at 500 (or 600?) dollars, it's never going to be a mass market seller. I'd be truly amazed if it's redbook CD playback can match that of a Denon 5910ci player, which is likely the better all around player.

I agree that OPPO players are good value units (I've a 981 (my original workhorse and most used player) and given away a 980 as a gift). IMHO if you care about *sound* you'll quit buying them (i.e. OPPO players).

IMO it is well worth it to run at least *2* disc players; and FWIW I run 6+ using clutzy/cumbersome RCA interconnect cables.

This whole focus on digital sound transmission (especially HDMI) seems more and more suspect to me, but I *do* use HDMI cables for my upscaled video just not for my sound.

Cheers

I recently picked up a really nice non-working 2930ci on eBay (about a two year old player in excellent cosmetic condition that was no longer reading discs). I also bought the replacement laser head on eBay at the same time since I figured that was probably the cause of the problem. When the unit arrived, I tried cleaning the laser lens first, but it did not help. Went ahead and replaced the laser head (which is not hard at all if you have some electronics experience) and the unit now works like a brand new machine. All for less than $100 and about an hour of work.

This is one impressive up-scaler, that's for sure. I have the new Oppo BDP-83, and I think the Denon is a bit better at DVD playback (they are very close to each other in upscaling performance, though).


Would you please be kind enough to provide some info on this?

Thank you in advance!

e.g. links for one (or more?) past post numbers in this thread that discussed this; as well as who you bought your laser head from; etc.

Cheers

2930 laser head on eBay...

http://cgi.ebay.com/DVD-Laser-Head-Denon-2930-3930-SANYO-Philips_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQ_trkparmsZ65Q3a12Q7c66Q3a2Q7c39Q3a 1Q7c72Q3a1205Q7c240Q3a1318Q7c301Q3a1Q7c293Q3a1Q7c294Q3a50QQ_ trksidZp3286Q2ec0Q2em14QQhashZitem3ca2daf333QQitemZ260430295 859QQptZDVDQ5fPlayersQ5fRecordersQQsalenotsupported

I have the 2930 and the Oppo BDP-83 as well. On my pro-151, I agree that the 2930 has the edge for playback of widescreen DVDs - slightly better scaling, much better noise reduction and overall a more pleasing film-like image. However, the Oppo has far more useful zoom modes, so many older 4:3 and pillarboxed titles get popped in the that tray... Oppo also does reverse telecine which can be good on some titles and now has region-free DVD playback through third-party firmware mod. I'm interested to compare PAL playback with the 2930 but haven't had time to flash it yet.

As for Blu-ray vs. DVD, at 60 inches, 7-8 feet viewing distance there is no comparison. I think compression artifacts become increasingly apparent at larger screen sizes, regardless of viewing distance. Even just a couple feet away from the 40" Samsung LCD in the bedroom, there's a lot less between DVD and Blu-ray out of the mediocre Sammy BDP-POS1400 because the compression artifacts are so much less obvious.

For sound, the Oppo stereo analogue isn't bad by any means but the Denon also edges it here and is much better with analogue multichannel. Comparing some favorite classical CDs and SACDs, the Oppo's presentation doesn't have nearly as much depth to the stereo field, where the 2930s really creates a sense of the space that extends out into the room. Still, i think a lot of people who buy the Oppo coming from previous Oppo players or other players at lower price points will be thrilled with its much-improved audio - it's all about your point of reference and the capability of your speakers to reveal differences. I'm tempted to pick up a discounted 3930 or 5910 and move the 2930 to the second system, but i might just take a deep breath since my next upgrade should probably be to buy a house.


This is one impressive up-scaler, that's for sure. I have the new Oppo BDP-83, and I think the Denon is a bit better at DVD playback (they are very close to each other in upscaling performance, though).

I do all my multichannel listening via the HDMI connection - however, I do use the Oppo's analog two channel output for HDCD's, two channel SACD's and two channel DVD-Audio tracks. I guess I will have to check out the Denon's analog outs now...

My system is not audiophile quality by any means, but my HDMI processing JVC receiver does a pretty decent job and sounds surprisingly good. I have Paradigm mains, a KEF center channel speaker, older Infinity quadrapole surrounds and a 12" Sony subwoofer in my modest 5.1 setup.

Another thing I forgot to mention besides the obvious picture quality difference between Blu-ray and standard DVD is the sound quality. Blu-ray discs generally have very impressive sound quality.

Question, if you have a Denon DVD player and a Denon bluray player, who do you keep the one remote from operating both components. In other words, when I use my bluray, my Denon DVD player is flipping on and off.

My 3930 has stopped outputting sound from the analog output center and the back channels. Has this problem happened to others? Any quick fixes or suggestions?

The HDMI output and the Denon Link still output multichannel sound. I have tried changing the settings including turning off HDMI and turning off Denon Link, but this has not restored the analog outputs.

Thanks!

How's the 1940's 5.1 analog performance quality? Does the 1940 have the option to switch the SACD DSD cutoff between 50 KHz and 100 KHz, as well as the option to adjust LFE level without adjusting actual speaker levels? When playing SACDs, can the 1940 play DSD without converting it to PCM before it reaches the 5.1 analog outputs? When playing Pal DVDs on the 1940, are there any artifacts in the Pal-to-NTSC conversion process? Finally, when the procedure at http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=8779187&postcount=1265 make the 1940 multi-region?

There wont be any newer SD models. Just BD models w/ SD capability. The 2930/3930 are the last of the SD DVD breed (IMHO).
Did a dealer tell you this directly?

I hope would this isn't the case. It would be sad to go out on a bad note.

Their universal players are too pricey.

I have the 2930 and the Oppo BDP-83 as well. On my pro-151, I agree that the 2930 has the edge for playback of widescreen DVDs - slightly better scaling, much better noise reduction and overall a more pleasing film-like image. However, the Oppo has far more useful zoom modes, so many older 4:3 and pillarboxed titles get popped in the that tray... Oppo also does reverse telecine which can be good on some titles and now has region-free DVD playback through third-party firmware mod. I'm interested to compare PAL playback with the 2930 but haven't had time to flash it yet.

As for Blu-ray vs. DVD, at 60 inches, 7-8 feet viewing distance there is no comparison. I think compression artifacts become increasingly apparent at larger screen sizes, regardless of viewing distance. Even just a couple feet away from the 40" Samsung LCD in the bedroom, there's a lot less between DVD and Blu-ray out of the mediocre Sammy BDP-POS1400 because the compression artifacts are so much less obvious.

For sound, the Oppo stereo analogue isn't bad by any means but the Denon also edges it here and is much better with analogue multichannel. Comparing some favorite classical CDs and SACDs, the Oppo's presentation doesn't have nearly as much depth to the stereo field, where the 2930s really creates a sense of the space that extends out into the room. Still, i think a lot of people who buy the Oppo coming from previous Oppo players or other players at lower price points will be thrilled with its much-improved audio - it's all about your point of reference and the capability of your speakers to reveal differences. I'm tempted to pick up a discounted 3930 or 5910 and move the 2930 to the second system, but i might just take a deep breath since my next upgrade should probably be to buy a house.
I have the Dennon 2900 and was thinking of picking up the new Oppo 83, but it sounds like you really prefer the Dennon in both PQ and Multi Channel music. I'm not familiar with your Dennon 2930. How does it compare to the 2900? I would like to get down to one player like the Oppo, but don't want to go backwards on music quality. What's your take on the Dennon 2900 vs the Oppo 83?

I have the Dennon 2900 and was thinking of picking up the new Oppo 83, but it sounds like you really prefer the Dennon in both PQ and Multi Channel music. I'm not familiar with your Dennon 2930. How does it compare to the 2900? I would like to get down to one player like the Oppo, but don't want to go backwards on music quality. What's your take on the Dennon 2900 vs the Oppo 83?

If you still have no issues with the 2900. KEEP IT. It was one of the last great players from Denon. I upgraded to the 3930 and it has issues with the lens unit. I wished I kept the 2900.

The only real upgrade I found with the 3930 was HDMI upscaling is excellent. However the component was good in the 2900. If your display (or scaler)upscales well don't change the 2900.

cheers Badas

I think my 3930CI's laser unit is starting to fail. Recently on a few CD's, the player freezes up when I try to go to the next song. This usually happens near the end of a CD (anywhere from tracks 10-16). I'll keep a close eye on this.

Did any you fellow owners experience this behaviour?

I think my 3930CI's laser unit is starting to fail. Recently on a few CD's, the player freezes up when I try to go to the next song. This usually happens near the end of a CD (anywhere from tracks 10-16). I'll keep a close eye on this.

Did any you fellow owners experience this behaviour?

Yep, those are the symptoms. Mine has done this twice. Each time I had the laser changed. Check the forum on laser details.

CD's and SACD's show the problem. Also long load times for DVD menu's.

Ta Dono:mad:

I have the Dennon 2900 and was thinking of picking up the new Oppo 83, but it sounds like you really prefer the Dennon in both PQ and Multi Channel music. I'm not familiar with your Dennon 2930. How does it compare to the 2900? I would like to get down to one player like the Oppo, but don't want to go backwards on music quality. What's your take on the Dennon 2900 vs the Oppo 83?

I wouldn't say the Oppo is a big step backwards on sound quality, just that I prefer the Denon.

The Oppo is a great player that I'm very pleased with but it has its own strengths and weaknesses, just like the Denon, so both are staying in my system. Since the 83 does blu-ray it can blow the best the 2930 is capable of out of the water in PQ and SQ terms. In a market full of slow, unreliable, unstable BD players, the 83 is very stable, very fast and responsive with well-implemented features that incorporated feedback from end-users to an unusual extent. For DVD PQ, it's a close run thing and many folks seem to prefer the 83. Everything else it does, it does very well and you can be assured of ongoing firmware support and excellent customer service. It isn't perfect but for $500 it's damned close. I recommend it highly.

I don't have firsthand experience of the 2900, but if you like its sound quality, hang on to it while you audition the 83 then you can decide if you want to go to one player, keep both in your system like i did or send the Oppo back.

All,

When going from firmware version 8 to version 9, was there any change/improvement besides the Pure Direct key?

Thanks,
Darrell

Hello everyone,

Indeed i found the Denon 3930 firmware 8284-A in my mail box and i'm glad to set up the link to for all users who not can get this update's from local Denon support site's.

All manuals are included,

Read Carefully before updating.

http://rapidshare.com/files/191874576/BE8284-A_DVD3930_3930CI.zip


changelog:

8284-A 22-01-2009
When the unit operation prohibition area on a specific DVD disc has been reproduced, ""PURE DIRECT"" button is operated. The unit cannot be operated.

enjoy

greetings
Dutchman01

I wouldn't say the Oppo is a big step backwards on sound quality, just that I prefer the Denon.

The Oppo is a great player that I'm very pleased with but it has its own strengths and weaknesses, just like the Denon, so both are staying in my system. Since the 83 does blu-ray it can blow the best the 2930 is capable of out of the water in PQ and SQ terms. In a market full of slow, unreliable, unstable BD players, the 83 is very stable, very fast and responsive with well-implemented features that incorporated feedback from end-users to an unusual extent. For DVD PQ, it's a close run thing and many folks seem to prefer the 83. Everything else it does, it does very well and you can be assured of ongoing firmware support and excellent customer service. It isn't perfect but for $500 it's damned close. I recommend it highly.

I don't have firsthand experience of the 2900, but if you like its sound quality, hang on to it while you audition the 83 then you can decide if you want to go to one player, keep both in your system like i did or send the Oppo back.
Thanks for your input. I think I'll order the Oppo 83 up and see what it sounds like.

Hey there,

Been following this thread for a while now... Needed to rack someone's DVD brains!

Bought my DVD 2930 (not CI) about 2 years ago, and have been extremely happy with it. Since then, though, my main viewing source has changed to the Apple TV as I buy fewer and fewer physical disks anymore.

Anyway, I decided that I was tired of switching cables back and forth as my display has only 1 HDMI port, and I bought the RocketFish HDMI 4 port switch (I can't post the url yet, as I have not had 3 posts yet, but it's available at bestbuy.ca's website.)

The Apple TV works just fine through the switch, but the 2930 just doesn't. I have the Denon set on YPbPr Auto, and it just continuously seems like it's trying to handshake with the display. Nothing happens.

I've never updated the firmware on it, but is this something that might get fixed with an update? Any other ideas?

Thanks in advance for any help you can give me.

Fauzi

Got my 3930CI back from the shop. Everything is working fine and it seems that the player responds to commands from the remote alot faster. Noticed that the shop also installed the lastest firmware. The tech sheet doesn't specify if the laser was replaced just the the problem of intermittent disc playing was confirmed and rectified.

I'm sure glad I bought that extended warranty for my 3930CI which still has another year to go.

Got my 3930CI back from the shop. Everything is working fine and it seems that the player responds to commands from the remote alot faster. Noticed that the shop also installed the lastest firmware. The tech sheet doesn't specify if the laser was replaced just the the problem of intermittent disc playing was confirmed and rectified.

I'm sure glad I bought that extended warranty for my 3930CI which still has another year to go.
Can you specify the firmware or confirm latest that matches Dutchman's latest post?
Thanks

Can you specify the firmware or confirm latest that matches Dutchman's latest post?
Thanks

How do you check to see which fimware you are running with the 3930CI?

Just placed an order for 2930ci "Name Your Price" for $225.00 free shipping from 6th Ave.

Will mainly use for DVD Upconverting, thanks to all info from this thread. :)

I think it is officially time to take a sledge hammer (no pun intended) to this POS. This is seriously the worst DVD player (3930CI) I have ever had :(. $1200 for a high end DVD player that can hardly play any DVDs. Just found another one it won't play: Saw V.

And we crash 30 mins in to Fast & Furious. This thing is going in the trash can as soon as I get a new job :(.

Yes, its properly vented... yes its in a smoke free home... yes I bought it brand new... yes its been meticulously cared for... and YES... it is a piece of garbage.

I think it is officially time to take a sledge hammer (no pun intended) to this POS. This is seriously the worst DVD player (3930CI) I have ever had :(. $1200 for a high end DVD player that can hardly play any DVDs. Just found another one it won't play: Saw V.

I can say the same about the 2930CI. Some years ago a home theater technician told me not to buy any Denon DVD players. And I didn't believe him... On the other hand, I’m happy because I didn’t spend more money buying the 3930CI. I repeat: this is my first and last Denon player (including bluray players).

I can say the same about the 2930CI. Some years ago a home theater technician told me not to buy any Denon DVD players. And I didn't believe him... On the other hand, I’m happy because I didn’t spend more money buying the 3930CI. I repeat: this is my first and last Denon player (including bluray players).

I was thinking of replacing my 3930CI with one of the new Denon BluRay player (dunno why after my experience with the 3930CI)... last night I was reading the Denon BluRay threads and those players are even worse then the DVD players. Some guy was kind enough to post some benchmarks... LG -> 13 to 15 seconds to load and play... Denon 1min+ to do the same exact task. No thanks. I'm OK with my Denon AVR though :). I went to Denon in the first place because of the performance. I had a Sony ES DVD player before and couldn't stand the 2 second layer break :)... at least that thing didn't crash every 30 mins.

The vast majority of problems people have with the 2930 and 3930 are due to the laser wearing out and not being able to read discs anymore

It's certainly ridiculous that the lasers in these very expensive, high end Denon units wear out prematurely like they do, but it's a relatively easy fix if you have some experience with electronics. The part can be found on eBay for $20 plus shipping.

Search "DVD Laser Head - Denon 2930 3930"

There's tons of info and instructions in this thread about how to replace the laser head

These are really great DVD upscalers when they work, and are worth fixing if you do it yourself

The vast majority of problems people have with the 2930 and 3930 are due to the laser wearing out and not being able to read discs anymore

It's certainly ridiculous that the lasers in these very expensive, high end Denon units wear out prematurely like they do, but it's a relatively easy fix if you have some experience with electronics. The part can be found on eBay for $20 plus shipping.

Search "DVD Laser Head - Denon 2930 3930"

There's tons of info and instructions in this thread about how to replace the laser head

These are really great DVD upscalers when they work, and are worth fixing if you do it yourself

Thanks... Maybe I'll look into that, but I'm skeptical to be honest with you. My DVD-3930CI has, and I'm guessing here... probably played less then 50 DVDs in its lifetime. That seems absurd for a $1200 DVD player to wear out after 50 DVDs. I have a friend with a $100 Oppo and its going strong for 5 years and that guy downloads movies like a mofo :).

When I tried playing SAW V, I got the "gear grinding" noise coming from the player. Is that an indication of a worn head? I had the same issue with Rambo V when that came out. I think both of those particular movies are copy protection issues since when I ripped and cleaned and reburned Rambo V with AnyDVD, it played on the same exact player just fine. The original DVD with the copy protection did not. I've ripped SAW V, but haven't tried it yet. I've never updated the firmware on this player, so maybe that could be it. But I'm scared to death of bricking it with its flakeyness.

Optical disc drives will sometimes make racket like that (chattering) when they are having trouble reading discs. It's possible that the laser lens just needs cleaning (but doubtful). What causes the laser in these Denons to fail is not known (the exact same laser head is used in some other brands of DVD players with better reliability). Why a ripped DVD-R copy of a commercially pressed DVD would play better than the original is also hard to say. It's unlikely that copy protection is the problem, however.

I feel pretty confident that if you replace the laser head in your 3930, it will probably work like a new machine again. For $30 and about an hour of your time you can find out one way or the other.

Edit: Actually, I just checked eBay and you can get the laser head (the part is Sanyo SF-HD65) for less than $15 shipped.

Optical disc drives will sometimes make racket like that (chattering) when they are having trouble reading discs. It's possible that the laser lens just needs cleaning (but doubtful). What causes the laser in these Denons to fail is not known (the exact same laser head is used in some other brands of DVD players with better reliability). Why a ripped DVD-R copy of a commercially pressed DVD would play better than the original is also hard to say. It's unlikely that copy protection is the problem, however.

I feel pretty confident that if you replace the laser head in your 3930, it will probably work like a new machine again. For $30 and about an hour of your time you can find out one way or the other.

Edit: Actually, I just checked eBay and you can get the laser head (the part is Sanyo SF-HD65) for less than $15 shipped.

Thanks man... I'll probably give that a whirl. Decent gamble for $15 I'd say :). Cheaper and less headache then selling this player and buying a new one :).

EDIT: Are you sure the SF-HD65 is the right part for the 3930CI? That looks like the part number for the 2930CI?

The vast majority of problems people have with the 2930 and 3930 are due to the laser wearing out and not being able to read discs anymore

It's certainly ridiculous that the lasers in these very expensive, high end Denon units wear out prematurely like they do, but it's a relatively easy fix if you have some experience with electronics. The part can be found on eBay for $20 plus shipping.

Search "DVD Laser Head - Denon 2930 3930"

There's tons of info and instructions in this thread about how to replace the laser head

These are really great DVD upscalers when they work, and are worth fixing if you do it yourself

Do most unit of 2930 & 3930 laser head are trend to fail?

After changing to the new laser head, how long it's going to last? Thank you.

I believe the 2930 and 3930 use the same laser head, yes. Not 100% certain, though. You could open up your 3930 and have a look to make sure. The guy I got my laser head from on eBay advertises them as compatible with both units.

As far as how long a new head will last, I don't know. I think most people have said they started having disc reading problems with their 2930/3930 units after a couple of years. Some quit sooner, some last longer, some say theirs still works fine even today after several years of heavy use. I figure a new laser head should last about 2-3 years.

The premature laser failure problem in these machines is well-known.

For the record, laser failure is a common problem in DVD players, DVD recorders and computer disc drives.

A couple more things - the laser head is shipped short-circuited with a small blob of solder to avoid damage from static electricity. After you swap out the laser head with the new one, you have to de-solder it to open the circuit. Check out the attached picture in post #4175 on page 140 of this thread.

You will need a small Philips head screwdriver (like the kind you will find in a jeweler's screwdriver set) to get the laser assembly apart to swap the head.

The laser head is connected by a flat plastic ribbon tape style cable - be careful with disconnecting and re-connecting as these are somewhat delicate.

Thanks man... I'll probably give that a whirl. Decent gamble for $15 I'd say :). Cheaper and less headache then selling this player and buying a new one :).

EDIT: Are you sure the SF-HD65 is the right part for the 3930CI? That looks like the part number for the 2930CI?

Yeah it is the same part. I asked a Denon Tech if I could watch him change my laser. It was my third. He said yep. The laser he took from the packet was labeled up 2930. Mine is 3930. I asked and he said it was the same. Everytime mine has a new laser it works like it has just come out of the box. Also it was a 10 minute job.:):)

I posted the part No a while back. It is the sanyo part everyone talks about.

Ta
Dono:):)

Yeah it is the same part. I asked a Denon Tech if I could watch him change my laser. It was my third. He said yep. The laser he took from the packet was labeled up 2930. Mine is 3930. I asked and he said it was the same. Everytime mine has a new laser it works like it has just come out of the box. Also it was a 10 minute job.:):)

I posted the part No a while back. It is the sanyo part everyone talks about.

Ta
Dono:):)

Wow... 3 lasers... more quality Denon craftsmanship :rolleyes:.

In fact, laser problems are very common in DVD and CD players (and also in bluray players). This part has a limited lifetime that depends of the use. For example, my Marantz DV7000 has started to present similar problems, but after almost 10 years of use! Also, I recently changed the laser unit of my Marantz CD5000 (after 7 years of intensive use). I have other two DVD players in use with 4 and 6 years without problems. On the other hand, my 2930CI has received 3 new laser units in one year of use and started the problems again. Four months ago I changed not only the laser but the complete traverse unit and I spent a lot of money. Perhaps I have no luck!? Sorry guys but I work with electronics and have strong knowledge about this subject. This is not dirt problem as some say. The fact that de SFHD65 laser unit works well in several other cheap players is very relevant. Why this unit doesn’t work well in some (or several?) Denon players? Unfortunately, I have no time anymore to spend searching the problem in this unit. I prefer buying another player from other brand.

Sorry guys but I work with electronics and have strong knowledge about this subject. This is not dirt problem as some say. The fact that de SFHD65 laser unit works well in several other cheap players is very relevant...

With the 3930, at least, I have to seriously wonder if its heat-related. This puppy runs *so* much hotter than any other electronics component I've ever used. If the same laser unit runs reliably in other manufacturer's DVD players, heat would seem to be a clear differentiator between the Denon and the others. So much so that I've resorted to leaving the cabinet doors open when I'm using it. I'm on my second unit (first one died while still under warranty, and the dealer simply replaced it, no questions asked) with absolutely no problems for over a year now. But now that its out of warranty, and is apparently pretty easy and cheap to fix, I might just buy one or two laser units to have on standby.

On the other hand, my BR (LG BD390) at 1080p completely blows it away on PQ (not that the comparison is completely "fair"). Where the 3930 still reigns is in audio quality and upconversion, and my LG - while very good - still doesn't approach it. I'll definitely keep the Denon around for that.

All that said, has anyone experimented with putting a fan on a 3930?

-Reid

On the other hand, my BR (LG BD390) at 1080p completely blows it away on PQ (not that the comparison is completely "fair"). Where the 3930 still reigns is in audio quality and upconversion, and my LG - while very good - still doesn't approach it. I'll definitely keep the Denon around for that.

-Reid

I will second that! In terms of playing DVDs--- forget it, buy a bluray player. It is a sin to play DVDs on a 3930/2930. For playing SACDs and DVDAs --- it is hard to beat and worth every penny.

I will second that! In terms of playing DVDs--- forget it, buy a bluray player. It is a sin to play DVDs on a 3930/2930. For playing SACDs and DVDAs --- it is hard to beat and worth every penny.

Gotta say... kind of dumb to spend $1200 to play obsolete disc formats :).

All Denon equipment runs hot, but the DVD-3930CI runs especially hot. PQ on the 3930CI is fine. It looks great. Its built like a tank...

BUT... and this is a big, fat hairy BUT(T)... it can't play a f'n DVD to save its life. Wouldn't play a pressed copy of SAW V. It would play a ripped copy of SAW V, but crashed / froze a few times through. Same thing with Rambo V. Also crashed / froze a few times on Fast & Furious. Crashes constantly on chapter skips or navigating through menus.

Basically, come on now... everybody knows you are going to shove this POS into an equipment rack. If Denon so poorly engineered it, that it needs a foot of clearence on all 6 sides to operate properly, then said Denon engineers need to be taken out back and shot in the head (a few times).

I'll try change out the laser head because its $20, but from the sound of things (like the guy who went through 3 lasers in 2 years)... it ain't gonna save this POS :).

Sorry for my bitterness, but when it takes 5 hours to watch a 1 1/2 hour movie because of constant freezes and crashes... I'm gonna be bitter with my $1200 turd :D.

I've got an Oppo BDP-83 I use for Blu-ray, SACD, DVD-Audio, CD and some DVD playback. I picked up the Denon 2930 for next to nothing since it wasn't working and fixed it myself for cheap, so it is used pretty much exclusively for DVD (especially by my kids). I've already got a spare laser head on hand to fix it again if it starts to flake out on me.

Gotta say... kind of dumb to spend $1200 to play obsolete disc formats :).

All Denon equipment runs hot, but the DVD-3930CI runs especially hot. PQ on the 3930CI is fine. It looks great. Its built like a tank...

BUT... and this is a big, fat hairy BUT(T)... it can't play a f'n DVD to save its life. Wouldn't play a pressed copy of SAW V. It would play a ripped copy of SAW V, but crashed / froze a few times through. Same thing with Rambo V. Also crashed / froze a few times on Fast & Furious. Crashes constantly on chapter skips or navigating through menus.

Basically, come on now... everybody knows you are going to shove this POS into an equipment rack. If Denon so poorly engineered it, that it needs a foot of clearence on all 6 sides to operate properly, then said Denon engineers need to be taken out back and shot in the head (a few times).

I'll try change out the laser head because its $20, but from the sound of things (like the guy who went through 3 lasers in 2 years)... it ain't gonna save this POS :).

Sorry for my bitterness, but when it takes 5 hours to watch a 1 1/2 hour movie because of constant freezes and crashes... I'm gonna be bitter with my $1200 turd :D.

Well you are bitter,

I have gone through 3 lasers in 18 months. So what. This sometimes happens in HT. Everytime I have swapped the laser it has played perfectly and I wouldn't play DVD's in my Denon 2500 BTR. This player plays DVD's the best I have ever seen. I have 400 Dvd's and they look great. I am also watching on a 110" screen using a Cineversum DILA projector (you can't get better)

All the Blu-ray players have NOT matched this player.

So the laser gets screwy. Just bloody change it and get use to it. HT is expensive get use to it.

Also Denon shouldn't make a player to play ripped copies. I haven't had a DVD-R not play in mine.

This player is great if you look after it and change the laser once and a while :):):)

Now I sound bitter

Ta

Dono

Well you are bitter


Gotta say... kind of dumb to spend $1200 to play obsolete disc formats :).



Yeah but, he has a sense of humor :)

All the Blu-ray players have NOT matched this player.

I would have to agree. A lot of BR players are touting their use of the Reon chip, which is a cost-reduced version of the Realta chip used in the 3930. While the Reon good, the Realta is really impressive. The 3930 blows away everything else I've seen.

But I'm not surprised the 3930 outperforms BR players on DVDs. Why should a BR player be particularly good at upconversion? The manufacturers want to sell BR players, and upconversion isn't necessary to deliver great PQ on BR disks. So why design in the more expensive components necessary to do it well?

In fact, I was specifically looking for a BR player that focused on BR performance - I have the 3930 in the rack for everything else! I can sympathize with sledgehammer, but I really love my 3930.

All that said, has anyone experimented with putting a fan on a 3930?


I have a Denon 5910ci player, which likely runs a bit hotter than your 3930ci. My 5910ci got fairly warm after 2+ hours of play time, and it's in the open air on the top shelf of my equipment rack.

It does not have a fan built into it, and it is my understanding that your 3930ci also does not have a fan in it?

Anyhow, I got a Scythe sff212f fan (12v, 120mm x 120mm x 25mm, 1,600rpm at 12v); long life (150,000 hours!)

Try a google on that.

Company I bought them from included a small 120v AC/DC Petra adapter that offers 12v, 9v, 7.5v, 6v, 4.5v, and 3v output. With 3v the fan runs OK and is inaudible and is where I ran it for some time; at 4.5v the fan noise is just noticeable but still inaudible when anything is playing.

Plop it on top of the unit to start with. That has worked well for me with my Denon 5910ci player. I'm about to move this player into it's "permanent" location and plan to use 3M blue masking tape to make it more secure and get somewhat better air flow.

Cheers

Sorry but the problems with Denon players are not related to dirt or high temperature. I have other players that work hotter than my 2930CI without any problems. By the way, the 2930 doesn't have but the 3930CI has a fan built inside.

Sorry but the problems with Denon players are not related to dirt or high temperature.


AFAIK, high operating temps *always* mean high(er) failure rates.

Correct me if I'm wrong. :)

I have other players that work hotter than my 2930CI without any problems. By the way, the 2930 doesn't have but the 3930CI has a fan built inside.


So far I've seen you and one other say the exact opposite thing with regard to whether the Denon 3930ci player does/doesn't have an internal fan.

But then I do not own a 3930ci player, so I've no clue.

I *am* more than a little surprised that no one has commented on this in this thread.

Hopefully real owners of the 3930ci player will speak up on this.

With regard to the Scythe fan that I posted about earlier in this thread, my Denon 5910ci player runs noticeably cooler with this "12v DC" external fan (which I've so far simply plopped on top of the unit and currently run at 4.5v DC).

Cheers

I guess I'll find out if it has a fan when I change out the laser head. Bottom line is, fan or not, the DVD-3930CI is unreliable and super flakey. When you add in the fact that most of us paid $1200+ for it... its absurd. I have friends with Oppos, Pioneers, Pioneer Elites, Sonys, Sony ESs, etc. and NONE of them have EVER had a DVD player fail at the laser head level. Sure we've all seen electronics fry, but the laser head? Nope. I'm even kind of embarrased to have people over to watch a DVD in fear of me looking like an idiot trying to get a f'n DVD to load for an hour :).

The Sanyo head used in the DVD-3930CI is used by countless other players. We don't see them failing like the Denons. So I'm gonna go with the above poster and put the blame squarely where it belongs: On Denons lousy engineers.

I guess I'll find out if it has a fan when I change out the laser head. Bottom line is, fan or not, the DVD-3930CI is unreliable and super flakey. When you add in the fact that most of us paid $1200+ for it... its absurd. I have friends with Oppos, Pioneers, Pioneer Elites, Sonys, Sony ESs, etc. and NONE of them have EVER had a DVD player fail at the laser head level. Sure we've all seen electronics fry, but the laser head? Nope. I'm even kind of embarrased to have people over to watch a DVD in fear of me looking like an idiot trying to get a f'n DVD to load for an hour :).

The Sanyo head used in the DVD-3930CI is used by countless other players. We don't see them failing like the Denons. So I'm gonna go with the above poster and put the blame squarely where it belongs: On Denons lousy engineers.


Of my 3 recently purchased Denon players (5910ci and 2930ci and 1940ci), I've only used the 2930ci and 1940ci for about a week each. The 5910ci has been my workhorse this past 3 months; I can add that it is very picky on playing the occasional disc (movie or music) that is off spec in any serious way. But I don't run across many discs like that.

With regard to "lousy engineers" I have to question that. OTOH I got my units at closeout at roughly 75% off list, which permits me to take a more dismissive attitude.

Cheers

Of my 3 recently purchased Denon players (5910ci and 2930ci and 1940ci), I've only used the 2930ci and 1940ci for about a week each. The 5910ci has been my workhorse this past 3 months; I can add that it is very picky on playing the occasional disc (movie or music) that is off spec in any serious way. But I don't run across many discs like that.

With regard to "lousy engineers" I have to question that. OTOH I got my units at closeout at roughly 75% off list, which permits me to take a more dismissive attitude.

Cheers

Well, I am just seriously annoyed at Denon over this player. I bought it brand new in 2005 I think. I would hardly call it a "workhorse" since I don't rent *that* many DVDs. I'd have to say its played < 100 DVDs in its lifetime. I leave it completely off when not in use. I have encountered several DVDs it would not even load: Saw V and Rambo V and a few others I can't recall off the top of my head. Once stripped and re-burned with AnyDVD, those same movies would play.

I went with "lousy engineers" because:

1) the player crashes often navigating through menus
2) the player crashes often just watching a movie
3) the player often fails to recover from a STOP in the middle of a movie
4) the player crashes often on chapter navigation
5) the player crashes often on FF or reverse operations
6) the player often randomly skips...

I can't recall the last movie that just played flawlessly out of the box. My previous post was not an exageration either. It seriously took me 1hr to get My Bloody Valentine 3D playing because it kept crashing on the menus.

I guess I should just get the f'n $10 laser head and try to change it out already :).

I remember seeing an internal pic of the 3930CI (can't remember which AV site it was) and it had a fan located near the back. It's not a big as the fans that are on the backs of Blu Ray players but it does have a small fan inside. You can see the vent for the fan on the rear panel.

Sledge,
Changing the transverse mech. 3-4 mos. ago in my 2930 made all the difference. It acts like is should have out of the box, plays dvds w/o any hitches. <where's wood?...>

Sledge,
Changing the transverse mech. 3-4 mos. ago in my 2930 made all the difference. It acts like is should have out of the box, plays dvds w/o any hitches. <where's wood?...>

Isn't the entire transverse mech like $200?

Of my 3 recently purchased Denon players (5910ci and 2930ci and 1940ci), I've only used the 2930ci and 1940ci for about a week each. The 5910ci has been my workhorse this past 3 months; I can add that it is very picky on playing the occasional disc (movie or music) that is off spec in any serious way. But I don't run across many discs like that.

With regard to "lousy engineers" I have to question that. OTOH I got my units at closeout at roughly 75% off list, which permits me to take a more dismissive attitude.


Well, I am just seriously annoyed at Denon over this player. I bought it brand new in 2005 I think. I would hardly call it a "workhorse" since I don't rent *that* many DVDs. I'd have to say its played < 100 DVDs in its lifetime. I leave it completely off when not in use. I have encountered several DVDs it would not even load: Saw V and Rambo V and a few others I can't recall off the top of my head. Once stripped and re-burned with AnyDVD, those same movies would play.

I went with "lousy engineers" because:

1) the player crashes often navigating through menus
2) the player crashes often just watching a movie
3) the player often fails to recover from a STOP in the middle of a movie
4) the player crashes often on chapter navigation
5) the player crashes often on FF or reverse operations
6) the player often randomly skips...

I can't recall the last movie that just played flawlessly out of the box. My previous post was not an exageration either. It seriously took me 1hr to get My Bloody Valentine 3D playing because it kept crashing on the menus.

I guess I should just get the f'n $10 laser head and try to change it out already :).


1st, are we talking about the same Denon player?

My above comments are specific to my current usage (last 3 months) with my new Denon 5910ci player ($3.8k list).

FWIW, the 1st 5910ci player that I got (from Crutchfield at closeout of $2k) clearly had problems. Then amazon showed a significant price drop and I bought a 2nd one from ListenUp at $999. The unit from ListenUp made it clear that the Crutchfield unit had laser alignment problems, so I returned it and got my $2k back (no shipping charge).

Worth repeating is that in my last year's experience that there is no perfect disc "universal" (whatever that means) disc player no matter how much you spend.

Best one I've gotten is hands down the Denon 5910ci universal disc player, but it's one flaw is that it is finicky about discs that are somewhat off spec with their manufacturing quality.

OTOH my P.E. DV-58 player is not finicky, but it is clearly substandard to my 5910ci with regard to both PQ and AQ; as well as that it's remote does not permit one to directly do either a repeat disc nor a repeat track.

Sorry that you're not too thrilled with your own Denon player (unspecified), but I'm more than thrilled with my own Denon 5910ci player at the closeout price of $999 (still available thru amazon at that price).

Cheers

I remember seeing an internal pic of the 3930CI (can't remember which AV site it was) and it had a fan located near the back. It's not a big as the fans that are on the backs of Blu Ray players but it does have a small fan inside. You can see the vent for the fan on the rear panel.


1st I do not have any experience with the Denon 3930ci disc player, but I do own the similar (more expensive) Denon 5910ci disc player.

My Denon 5910ci runs warm to mildly hot (mildly hot when playing for more than 2 hours without any fan help), but absolutely does not have an internal fan, which is why I plopped a quiet fan on top of the unit in order to help with cooling it.

I've so far seen mixed comments on the Denon 3930ci unit with regard to whether it does or does not have an internal fan!

Pretty amazing to me that owners/others can't make up their minds on this. :o)

Cheers

1st, are we talking about the same Denon player?

My above comments are specific to my current usage (last 3 months) with my new Denon 5910ci player ($3.8k list).

Worth repeating is that in my last year's experience that there is no perfect disc "universal" (whatever that means) disc player no matter how much you spend.

Best one I've gotten is hands down the Denon 5910ci universal disc player, but it's one flaw is that it is finicky about discs that are somewhat off spec with their manufacturing quality.

Sorry that you're not too thrilled with your own Denon player (unspecified), but I'm more than thrilled with my own Denon 5910ci player at the closeout price of $999 (still available thru amazon at that price).



I have the DVD-3930CI... that is this thread isn't it? :). "Universal Player" is a misnomer. While my DVD-3930CI plays CDs, DVDs, SACD and DVD-A, etc. all but two of those formats (CDs & DVDs/DVD-R(W)) are obsolete.

Anyways, just saying... a lot of people I know went the el cheapo route and bought $100 to $200 DVD players and theirs have *never* crashed or failed to load a disc. *NEVER*. I only know one guy who went with a high end DVD player like me. He went with a Pioneer Elite. His never crashes either. Don't remember what particular model he had.

Nobody I know has ever had to change out laser heads and swap out transverse mechanisms :rolleyes:.

My 2x pioneer DVD burner that is probably 5+ years old still works just fine. I've never had to swap out the laser on that either.

I have a Sony VCR (yeah, a VCR) that finally broke after 10+ yrs of ownership and that sucker is all mechanical. The heads in it are still fine. I only paid to have that repaired (< $20 I think) because I needed a VCR at the time to transfer some stuff around.

Anyways, the point is... $1200 DVD players should have $1200 of reliability... The Denons don't.

I have the DVD-3930CI... that is this thread isn't it? :).


True.

FWIW the thread title also includes 2930 and I have a 2930ci.

"Universal Player" is a misnomer. While my DVD-3930CI plays CDs, DVDs, SACD and DVD-A, etc. all but two of those formats (CDs & DVDs/DVD-R(W)) are obsolete.


I'm not trying to annoy you, but the fact is that SACD discs continue to be made. Also if you do a search on www.amazon.com you'll find a very long list of available SACD discs (both new and used).

Also, it's not clear to me if new DVD-Audio discs are still being made (I suspect that they are); but a search on amazon will also show a fair number of these discs too.

Anyways, just saying... a lot of people I know went the el cheapo route and bought $100 to $200 DVD players and theirs have *never* crashed or failed to load a disc. *NEVER*. I only know one guy who went with a high end DVD player like me. He went with a Pioneer Elite. His never crashes either. Don't remember what particular model he had.

Nobody I know has ever had to change out laser heads and swap out transverse mechanisms :rolleyes:.

My 2x pioneer DVD burner that is probably 5+ years old still works just fine. I've never had to swap out the laser on that either.

I have a Sony VCR (yeah, a VCR) that finally broke after 10+ yrs of ownership and that sucker is all mechanical. The heads in it are still fine. I only paid to have that repaired (< $20 I think) because I needed a VCR at the time to transfer some stuff around.

Anyways, the point is... $1200 DVD players should have $1200 of reliability... The Denons don't.


FWIW, my Denon 5910ci universal disc player is hands down the best disc player that I have.

I also have a 3rd gen Toshiba A35 (HD-DVD) player (less than $200 new thru amazon, but it sucks on CD playback, and I never use it for DVD movie playback), and I frankly think that the 5910ci is the all around better deal; i.e. video and especially audio.

IMO those who think that one disc player should do it all are mistaken in thinking this.

Cheers

Ah, alright. I thought Sony killed SACD a few years ago. Didn't think either format ever took off and that MP3 was the audio format that ruled the roost. Much to the chigrin of the CD industry :D.

Well despite the problems I had with my first 2930 I went ahead and bought a second unit last Christmas for my bedroom and now THAT unit is starting to develop problems too.

PQ and SQ is excellent as expected but the player doesn't like finding disc menus at all. Some discs clicks and wheeze, and click again, and then the menu appears. Other disc click and click and click and then stop.

So that's two Denon 2930s and both are showing the same symptoms.

I'm gutted because the upscaling on this machine is outstanding - and let's face it, it's still one of the few machines that genuinely hides the layer change.

But I'll never buy another Denon optical disc player again. Ever.

My blu-ray is a Panasonic BD-55.

Ah, alright. I thought Sony killed SACD a few years ago. Didn't think either format ever took off and that MP3 was the audio format that ruled the roost. Much to the chigrin of the CD industry :D.


Well I'll take that as an appology. :)

OTOH Sony ugh!

I know that you did not mention Blu-ray but you did mention Sony (my one least favorite company). You don't really think that Blu-ray MC audio is going to take off? Or do you?

From what I see in my local Costco and Wal-Mart stores, Blu-ray movies are still more than twice the price of DVD movies.

I've yet to see Blu-ray audio at a local store, but on-line it seems to cost even more than 2x that of any of the other music formats.

Correct me if I'm wrong. :D

Cheers

Well despite the problems I had with my first 2930 I went ahead and bought a second unit last Christmas for my bedroom and now THAT unit is starting to develop problems too.


Send it in for warranty service. You may not like Denon but they are still in business and honor their 1 year warranty on the unit.

At least as far as I know. All ears if otherwise.

PQ and SQ is excellent as expected but the player doesn't like finding disc menus at all. Some discs clicks and wheeze, and click again, and then the menu appears. Other disc click and click and click and then stop.

So that's two Denon 2930s and both are showing the same symptoms.


Buy a $15 replacement laser unit (on e-bay) for the older unit?

I have a Denon 2930ci player and will likely do this.

I'm gutted because the upscaling on this machine is outstanding - and let's face it, it's still one of the few machines that genuinely hides the layer change.

But I'll never buy another Denon optical disc player again. Ever.

My blu-ray is a Panasonic BD-55.


Well OK I hear you, but I put my money where my mouth is, and have 3 Denon closeout players (1940ci and 2930ci and 5910ci).

Maybe I'll just stop posting about the great closeout deals on Denon universal players?

At least I'll give that some serious thought.

For $999 I'm still pretty thrilled with my Denon 5910ci disc player, despite it's pickiness with regard to discs that are somewhat off spec.

Cheers

Well despite the problems I had with my first 2930 I went ahead and bought a second unit last Christmas for my bedroom and now THAT unit is starting to develop problems too.

PQ and SQ is excellent as expected but the player doesn't like finding disc menus at all. Some discs clicks and wheeze, and click again, and then the menu appears. Other disc click and click and click and then stop.

So that's two Denon 2930s and both are showing the same symptoms.

I'm gutted because the upscaling on this machine is outstanding - and let's face it, it's still one of the few machines that genuinely hides the layer change.

But I'll never buy another Denon optical disc player again. Ever.

My blu-ray is a Panasonic BD-55.

See OtherSongs? I'm not the only one with problems :). I mainly went Denon when I bought my 3930 for the same reason as Spymaster: The buffered layer change (as well as the supposed Denon quality and the RealtaHQV). I had a Sony ES before and the layer change was 2 f'n seconds. Seriously. It was annoying as hell.

I know that you did not mention Blu-ray but you did mention Sony (my one least favorite company). You don't really think that Blu-ray MC audio is going to take off? Or do you?
Cheers

No, I do not. Its pretty evident that 2 channel music (CD format) will NEVER go away. I don't see any other audio format ever displacing it for music. All the portable CD players, all the car CD players, all the home CD players, etc. MC music simply doesn't do anything when you are using headphones or 2 speakers. Besides, everybody now downloads music from the internet and puts it on an iPod. Stereo is all you need for that :D.

Send it in for warranty service. You may not like Denon but they are still in business and honor their 1 year warranty on the unit.

At least as far as I know. All ears if otherwise.


Denon DOES NOT honor the warranty if you purchased it online. There are VERY few exceptions to that like Crutchfield and J&R I think. Basically, they'll only honor the warranty when the serial number was registered to an "authorized dealer" and you paid full retail.

All the internet "discount" shops that sell Denon and claim to have the full US warranty... well, all I can say there is just try to use it. Denon will shoot you down like you're asking the head cheerleader to prom.


Buy a $15 replacement laser unit (on e-bay) for the older unit?

I have a Denon 2930ci player and will likely do this.


I've seen them even cheaper. Like $11 or so.

Send it in for warranty service. You may not like Denon but they are still in business and honor their 1 year warranty on the unit.

Buy a $15 replacement laser unit (on e-bay) for the older unit?
I have a Denon 2930ci player and will likely do this.

I sent my original 2930 to Denon for repair and when it came back the front panel was scratched and scuffed to hell. I was seriously p'd off. The unit works again - at least for now.

The $15 replacement laser unit sounds ideal - but how would I install it?

No, I do not. Its pretty evident that 2 channel music (CD format) will NEVER go away. I don't see any other audio format ever displacing it for music. All the portable CD players, all the car CD players, all the home CD players, etc. MC music simply doesn't do anything when you are using headphones or 2 speakers. Besides, everybody now downloads music from the internet and puts it on an iPod. Stereo is all you need for that :D.

Indeed. IMHO there's no real need for multi-channel music. Music by it's very nature doesn't come from multiple places like a movie does - unless you're standing in the middle of an orchestra or are actually on stage with a band, and how realistic would that be?

Generally the only benefit from 5.1 music is a better sense of echo and ambiance and, unfortunately, very few people would upgrade to a new format just for that.

I have three SACD discs (Star Trek Nemesis, Timeline and The Great Train Robbery) and, frankly, I normally listen to them in 2.0 mode!

Ok, I'm in the UK, please can you confirm that the part I need to replace my dodgy Denon 2930 (UK model) laser pick-up is:

SANYO SF-HD65

as seen here:

https://www.chsinteractive.co.uk/electrical-components/general-components/lasers-optical-heads-ribbons-and-motors/laser-optical-heads-assemblys-alternative/sfh-type-range/sfhd65-laser-optical-head-alternative.htm

Well, I am just seriously annoyed at Denon over this player. I bought it brand new in 2005 I think. I would hardly call it a "workhorse" since I don't rent *that* many DVDs. I'd have to say its played < 100 DVDs in its lifetime. I leave it completely off when not in use. I have encountered several DVDs it would not even load: Saw V and Rambo V and a few others I can't recall off the top of my head. Once stripped and re-burned with AnyDVD, those same movies would play.

I went with "lousy engineers" because:

1) the player crashes often navigating through menus
2) the player crashes often just watching a movie
3) the player often fails to recover from a STOP in the middle of a movie
4) the player crashes often on chapter navigation
5) the player crashes often on FF or reverse operations
6) the player often randomly skips...


Is this a 3930CI?

Mine, purchased literally a month after they were first released, exhibits none of these symptoms (though I admit to having the most up-to-date firmware installed thanks to Dutchman.)

Now that I have an OOPO BDP-83, my 3930CI just sits unused in my rack month after month. Not sure what I'm gonna do with it. I'm sure it's only worth $200. - $300. on the used market (and it kills me that I paid $1,500. for it when first released!)

it's only worth $200. - $300. on the used market (and it kills me that I paid $1,500. for it when first released!)haaa! I just look at it like I got $1500.00 worth of use out of it (hours and hours of playng music and movie sources). Although it was in-operable on two different occasions for probably two months total each (in which the unit was submitted to Denon factory service). On top of that I forked out $350.00 for one of the service processes.

I have a BDP-83 as well, but I still love the DVD-3930CI analog sound over the Oppo (for both 2ch and 5.1ch music sources). Hard to get rid of in that respect- for me. As good as Oppo sounds playing SACD's and DVD-A's via-HDMI (LPCM) I like the Denon better (via-analog).

Now that I have an OOPO BDP-83, my 3930CI just sits unused in my rack month after month. Not sure what I'm gonna do with it. I'm sure it's only worth $200. - $300. on the used market (and it kills me that I paid $1,500. for it when first released!)


Why?

Odds are that your Denon 3930ci has better VQ for regular DVD movies.

I don't have a Denon 3930ci, but I do have a recently purchased 1940ci and a 2930ci and the top end 5910ci, and they all have great AQ (via the 5.1 RCA outs).

Odds are that it isn't worth selling your 3930ci online (e.g. either audiogon or e-bay); at most you might get $100 (minus maybe $50 for shipping, and if the person has issues with it, it could cost another $50 to return it to you).

IOW, use your OPPO BDP-83 for Blu-ray discs *only*!

Use your Denon 3930ci for everything else.

Just some thoughts/ideas. :)

Cheers

Now that I have an OOPO BDP-83, my 3930CI just sits unused in my rack month after month. Not sure what I'm gonna do with it.


I gave you some valid ideas in my 1st post of a few minutes ago.

But I have a question for you (and other Denon 3930ci owners): does your Denon 3930ci universal disc player have an internal fan?

Limited recent response has been mixed: 1 yes and 1 no.

Thank you and Cheers

does your Denon 3930ci universal disc player have an internal fan?I'm still not (100%) sure the DVD-3930CI employs a fan or not.

Here is a decent detailed review of the DVD-3930CI from AudioHolics:
http://www.audioholics.com/reviews/transports/dvd-players/denon-dvd-3930ci

Yes, there is a fan on top of the chip:
;)

This is the link to a german website where you will find lots of pics:
http://www.areadvd.de/hardware/2006/denon_dvd_3930_1.shtml

Yes, there is a fan on top of the chip:
;)

This is the link to a german website where you will find lots of pics:
http://www.areadvd.de/hardware/2006/denon_dvd_3930_1.shtml


OK and thank you.

But what I really do not understand is why the Denon 3930ci would have an internal fan (however small) and my concurrent and more expensive (and likely hotter running) Denon 5910ci does not.

I've listened carefully to it (5910ci with nothing else running) and it does not seem to have an internal fan.

Any thoughts on that?

I also have a Denon 2930ci player, and as far as I can tell it also does not have an internal fan.

So why does the Denon 3930ci have an internal fan???

Cheers

But what I really do not understand is why the Denon 3930ci would have an internal fan (however small) and my concurrent and more expensive (and likely hotter running) Denon 5910ci does notWhile that image show's a small muffin fan installed on top of the Realta chip on the German unit I'm still not sure this is standard on the unit's shipped in the U.S..

Also, I notice in the Audioholics review the writer mentions that there is a large [heat-sink] installed on top of the Realta chip. So that fan (in the German image) may be user-installed, or only available on the German manufactured unit's.

I've listened carefully to it (5910ci with nothing else running) and it does not seem to have an internal fanit may not.........

Isn't the entire transverse mech like $200?

No. I paid ~75$.

While that image show's a small muffin fan installed on top of the Realta chip on the German unit I'm still not sure this is standard on the unit's shipped in the U.S..

Also, I notice in the Audioholics review the writer mentions that there is a large [heat-sink] installed on top of the Realta chip.


There is a "medium" (not sure that I'd call it large) heat sink toward the extreme rear center of my American Denon 5910ci.

So that fan (in the German image) may be user-installed, or only available on the German manufactured unit's.


OK.

I've listened carefully to it (5910ci with nothing else running) and it does not seem to have an internal fan.

Any thoughts on that?


it may not.........


OK.

I'm 99.9% sure that it does not have an internal fan.

To be 100% sure I'd have to open it up but that doesn't make much sense as I'm pretty that I have a valid one year warranty with it given that I bought it from ListenUp.

FWIW I likely screwed up the sequence of the above quotes, but AFAIK the essence is correct.

Cheers

I wonder if they're keeping the same styling for these players?

I wonder if they're keeping the same styling for these players?what do you mean? These players are circa 2006 (if I remember correctly). The latest generations (DVD-3800BDCI, DVD-A1UDCI, etc.,...) have updated industrial designs.........

Hello everyone hopefully someone can help me or at least put my mind at ease. I just purchased a DVD-2930ci and have it paired with a Denon AVR-1909 using an HDMI connection. The problem I am having is that the player is sluggish to respond to remote or front panel controls and sometimes freezes while trying to complete the command given. It does work, just with these quirks. Are there some specific settings I should try on either the AVR or DVD player that could remedy this? I really want to like it, but I feel like I am dealing with a first gen blu ray player and not a high end late gen universal player. Thanks for any help you could provide.

Make sure your 2930CI has the latest fimrware. That will help.

Hello everyone hopefully someone can help me or at least put my mind at ease. I just purchased a DVD-2930ci and have it paired with a Denon AVR-1909 using an HDMI connection. The problem I am having is that the player is sluggish to respond to remote or front panel controls and sometimes freezes while trying to complete the command given. It does work, just with these quirks. Are there some specific settings I should try on either the AVR or DVD player that could remedy this? I really want to like it, but I feel like I am dealing with a first gen blu ray player and not a high end late gen universal player. Thanks for any help you could provide.

When you say "sluggish," I'm not sure how slow you mean. To be honest the operation of the 2930 is a little slower than what I initially expected.

I highly suggest you check to see what firmware version you have. Instructions on how to check firmware version are posted in this thread (use the "search thread" function at the top of the page).

Was wondering why there is no firmware listed for the 3930 on the Denon USA website. It's not even on the model dropdown list. Looks like to get the latest updated firmware you have to use the European version download?

Was wondering why there is no firmware listed for the 3930 on the Denon USA website. It's not even on the model dropdown list. Looks like to get the latest updated firmware you have to use the European version download?

That's correct. For some reason, Denon US never made the updates available on their US website. You can try contacting Denon directly. They may send you the upgrade (I have done this myself). You can also try speaking to the dealer who sold you your unit.

The updates on the European site seem to work with the US players. The trouble is, the European site will not recognize US serial numbers. Most of us have downloaded the firmware as it was made available on this thread. Dutchman01 has kindly supplied the 3930 updates (search this thread).

Also, you may be able to find on the web a European serial number that works on the European Denon site and download it directly.

I, and others, have been able to successfully update our firmware without any problems. Follow the directions for burning the CD and for doing the update. I haven't heard of anyone brick their unit, but be careful.

A thorough search of this thread will be quite useful to you.

Thanks maphiker, Got the link to Dutchman01's download. And in reading this thread, I picked up a $15 laser off ebay as a spare.

Thanks maphiker, Got the link to Dutchman01's download. And in reading this thread, I picked up a $15 laser off ebay as a spare.

Please can somebody confirm that this Sanyo laser part is the only component that needs to be replaced when the players starts playing up? There has been some mention of having to replace the "entire traverse mechanism" which, it seems, is considerably more expensive and complicated.

Thanks!

Was wondering why there is no firmware listed for the 3930 on the Denon USA website. It's not even on the model dropdown list. Looks like to get the latest updated firmware you have to use the European version download?yeah, this has been one of the most compelling un-answered questions since the release of this product. Denon never communicated in regards to this...............

yeah, this has been one of the most compelling un-answered questions since the release of this product. Denon never communicated in regards to this...............

Based on my experience with them over my DVD3910 years ago, I guess Denon is still that same company I came to know and love :rolleyes: This unit has been modded strictly for 2 channel listening.

Spymaster, from what I found searching these pages, some did just fine just replacing the laser and not the whole assembly. For $15 it's worth a try if there's a problem.

Okay, so I bought this player brand new for $200 and and noticed that the blacks were dark gray / washed out. When I set HDMI to enhanced, my blacks were fixed.

However, blacks still look washed out over the component. Is there something I can do to fix this?

Okay, so I bought this player brand new for $200 and and noticed that the blacks were dark gray / washed out. When I set HDMI to enhanced, my blacks were fixed.

However, blacks still look washed out over the component. Is there something I can do to fix this?

Try this: If you are using HDMI for video, go into the picture quality menus (Owner's Manual, p30). Chose M1 and then adjust the "SETUP LEVEL" to "0 IRE." Leave the player in the M1 mode. It is not difficult, but I had to look at the OM and play with this adjustment a bit. This is the one adjustment I had to make. I have never seen a good explanation for what this setting does. "IRE", in its usual sense does not apply to HDMI. Nevertheless, as someone told me, "Believe me, just do it." :)

I have not tried this with component video, but it is worth a try.

Try this: If you are using HDMI for video, go into the picture quality menus (Owner's Manual, p30). Chose M1 and then adjust the "SETUP LEVEL" to "0 IRE." Leave the player in the M1 mode. It is not difficult, but I had to look at the OM and play with this adjustment a bit. This is the one adjustment I had to make. I have never seen a good explanation for what this setting does. "IRE", in its usual sense does not apply to HDMI. Nevertheless, as someone told me, "Believe me, just do it." :)

I have not tried this with component video, but it is worth a try.

Hmmm, I'm wanting to change the black levels over the component.... it sounds like what you're telling me is supposed to affect my HDMI black levels which I'm happy with when it's in enhanced mode.

I'm using both HDMI and component. HDMI when I want to run my receiver and component when I just want to watch a movie late at night without the receiver cranking.

Hmmm, I'm wanting to change the black levels over the component.... it sounds like what you're telling me is supposed to affect my HDMI black levels which I'm happy with when it's in enhanced mode.

I'm using both HDMI and component. HDMI when I want to run my receiver and component when I just want to watch a movie late at night without the receiver cranking.

It's worth a try. You may want to change back the HDMI enhanced mode and compare with the IRE set to 0.

It's worth a try. You may want to change back the HDMI enhanced mode and compare with the IRE set to 0.

Roger wilco. I'll see what happens.

yeah, this has been one of the most compelling un-answered questions since the release of this product. Denon never communicated in regards to this...............

Isn't it obvious? Denon is a super cocky company who still thinks it rules the A/V world (when in reality lower priced options like Oppo, Panasonic, Pioneer, etc. that can ACTUALLY PLAY MEDIA are taking over). Denon USA is just a puppet shell company that Denon uses for pulling in expensive US "repair" money. It has no real power in the corporation.

Denon doesn't have any real interest in DVD (or BluRay) players at this point in the game. Their bread & butter is in the AVRs. My AVR-3808CI has had countless "updates", but my DVD-3930CI has had ZERO. Denon can simply not compete with the new offerings from the companies mentioned above. You just need to look at its new 2nd gen BluRay players to confirm that. When has Denon EVER released new technology that "cheap"? Especially considering they just released a $4500 blu ray player as well.

/rant :)

Okay, so I bought this player brand new for $200 and and noticed that the blacks were dark gray / washed out. When I set HDMI to enhanced, my blacks were fixed.

However, blacks still look washed out over the component. Is there something I can do to fix this?

The only way the HDMI Enhanced black level setting will have an effect is if you have the player set to RGB for the HDMI format. If you don't have a reason for using RGB, set the HDMI format to YCbCr, then set the black level setup to 0 IRE under the Picture Adjust menu (the one with the memory settings). This should give you the proper black level over both HDMI and component.

If you keep the HDMI format as RGB and use the Enhanced setting and set the black level setup to 0 in the Picture Adjust menu, the picture will look fine over component, but will be too dark over HDMI.

The only way the HDMI Enhanced black level setting will have an effect is if you have the player set to RGB for the HDMI format. If you don't have a reason for using RGB, set the HDMI format to YCbCr, then set the black level setup to 0 IRE under the Picture Adjust menu (the one with the memory settings). This should give you the proper black level over both HDMI and component.

If you keep the HDMI format as RGB and use the Enhanced setting and set the black level setup to 0 in the Picture Adjust menu, the picture will look fine over component, but will be too dark over HDMI.What calibration disc are you using?

larry

It's worth a try. You may want to change back the HDMI enhanced mode and compare with the IRE set to 0.

That worked! Although I had to change HDMI enhanced back to normal because it seemed darker.

That worked! Although I had to change HDMI enhanced back to normal because it seemed darker.

Great!
Roger, Wilco, and Out. :D

The only way the HDMI Enhanced black level setting will have an effect is if you have the player set to RGB for the HDMI format. If you don't have a reason for using RGB, set the HDMI format to YCbCr, then set the black level setup to 0 IRE under the Picture Adjust menu (the one with the memory settings). This should give you the proper black level over both HDMI and component.

If you keep the HDMI format as RGB and use the Enhanced setting and set the black level setup to 0 in the Picture Adjust menu, the picture will look fine over component, but will be too dark over HDMI.

You hit the nail on the head concerning I set my unit to RGB. However the black level was already at 0 IRE. What I did change was the "Setup Level" from 7.5 IRE to 0 IRE.

I have absolutely no reason for using RGB, so I changed it to YCbCr.

Great!
Roger, Wilco, and Out. :D

Many Thanks. BTW, I watched a ripped DVD on my Denon. I was under the impression you couldn't do this at all. Is this even an issue anymore?

Many Thanks. BTW, I watched a ripped DVD on my Denon. I was under the impression you couldn't do this at all. Is this even an issue anymore?

I never had a problem.

You hit the nail on the head concerning I set my unit to RGB. However the black level was already at 0 IRE. What I did change was the "Setup Level" from 7.5 IRE to 0 IRE.

I have absolutely no reason for using RGB, so I changed it to YCbCr.
Just got my 2930 from eBay at an awesome price, best DVD player I've ever owned. I replaced a 1940.

While watching 'Saving Private Ryan' the blacks looked a bit washed out. I changed the IRE setting, and voila....nice blacks.

My settings are HDMI(YCbCr), and 0 IRE. Are there any other video settings that do wonders? or is it specific to each one's display. I have a Sammy 46" LCD.

Just got my 2930 from eBay at an awesome price, best DVD player I've ever owned. I replaced a 1940.

While watching 'Saving Private Ryan' the blacks looked a bit washed out. I changed the IRE setting, and voila....nice blacks.

My settings are HDMI(YCbCr), and 0 IRE. Are there any other video settings that do wonders? or is it specific to each one's display. I have a Sammy 46" LCD.

I'm probably the last person you'd want to ask about settings for your HDTV. I have a Pioneer PRO-111FD and have benefitted from others (specifically D-Nice) giving their optimal settings for my make and model. I would say to get the most out of your HDTV, you'd either want to find a page on this forum where people have shared their ideal settings for the same make and model you have, or maybe try here as a starting point: http://www.tweaktv.com/tweak-my-tv/

It would be nice to see if there is a settings page on this forum for those with our Denon DVD player.

I have already tweaked my Sammy to death, with assistance from the brethren in the LN....650 owner's thread. Much obliged to those guys.

Yes, I would like to see a thread that specifically addressed these advanced video settings in Denon players. Can someone say 'threadstarter'?

I have already tweaked my Sammy to death, with assistance from the brethren in the LN....650 owner's thread. Much obliged to those guys.

Yes, I would like to see a thread that specifically addressed these advanced video settings in Denon players. Can someone say 'threadstarter'?

It is my understanding that digital information sent via HDMI is essentially what is on the disc. If that is true, there is no need to calibrate the player. The calibration should be done in the display. In other words, the display should faithfully reproduce the HDMI signal. The player only functions to send the unaltered digital information to the display.

I am by no means an expert and I am happy to have those that know more than me comment on this.

Looking at the 2930 or 3930 for my dvd-audio and sacd playback, i don't care about the video only the audio. Is there a difference between the 2 on the audio side? Im going to be using the Denon Link to mate it to my 3808.


Thanks for any feedback

Looking at the 2930 or 3930 for my dvd-audio and sacd playback, i don't care about the video only the audio. Is there a difference between the 2 on the audio side? Im going to be using the Denon Link to mate it to my 3808.


Thanks for any feedback

Hi Texandme:

Save your money and get the 2930, if you plan to use the Denon-link. I have the 2930 and use it to play SACDs and DVDAs. I use the D-link and it is awesome!

In terms of audio, the major difference between the two players is that the 3930 has slightly better DACs. Although this could make a difference if you used the analog outs, it should not have any effect on sound via the D-link.

The 3930 also has a better video chip. I am blown away by the video quality of the 2930. I can't believe the 3930 would be that much better. Sorry (I'm going to make all the 3930 video people angry). I'm sure the 3930 is a little better in terms of video.


Both players have the same laser assembly :D.

Thanks Maphiker i have a 2500BTCI so no need for the video, sounds like the 2930 is the right one for me.

Thanks Maphiker i have a 2500BTCI so no need for the video, sounds like the 2930 is the right one for me.

I have exactly the same setup. 3808 + 2500BTCI + 3930.

I will say this. The 2500BTCI is really good on the picture. Sharp, No Jaggies. However it has more obvious Macro blocking (artificial colours and artifacts). The 3930 to me is not as sharp but has a more natural film like appearence.

On the sound side there should be no difference between the 2930 and 3930.

Another not so important thing is the 3930 is the same height as the 2500, so they look good together. The 2930 is shorter.

Ta

Dono:)

Both players have the same laser assembly :D.

Speaking of which...

I just bought a replacement laser assembly to replace the dodgy one in my 2930. The one I bought is the Sanyo SFHD65. Haven't installed it yet.

My question is this: do the Denon 2930/3930 use this same laser assembly out of the factory? In which case is my replacement assembly prone to break down the same way? Or is the Sanyo assembly actually a more reliable unit?

Anybody have a link to the install instructions for the replacement head? Like what screws you need to remove and stuff?

Anybody have a link to the install instructions for the replacement head? Like what screws you need to remove and stuff?

The info is spread throughout this thread. It is probably best to carefully search through it (try: "laser").

Denon is a super cocky company:D

in reality lower priced options like Oppo, Panasonic, Pioneer, etc. that can ACTUALLY PLAY MEDIA are taking over)you are right, Denon has had numerous difficulties produciing players that can play various media (CD, SD-DVD, mp3, jpeg, etc.,...) consistently without failing or flaking out (at least with the few player models I've owned so far).

Denon USA is just a puppet shell company that Denon uses for pulling in expensive US "repair" money. It has no real power in the corporationI'm sure they're more than that. They do have engineering/development staff there (ie. Jeff Talmadge, etc.,...) . There is much interplay between Denon-USA and Denon Japan in terms of new developments.

Actually D&M Holdings executive management ("money mongers") are based in NewYork City.

They probably do make some profit handling warranty/factory service processing at their New Jersey headquarters.

Denon doesn't have any real interest in DVD (or BluRay) players at this point in the game. Their bread & butter is in the AVRs. My AVR-3808CI has had countless "updates", but my DVD-3930CI has had ZEROyeah, they seem to have solid AVR marketing/design. However their players do perform exceptionally well ( when they work).

Denon can simply not compete with the new offerings from the companies mentioned above. You just need to look at its new 2nd gen BluRay players to confirm that. When has Denon EVER released new technology that "cheap"? Especially considering they just released a $4500 blu ray player as wellwell they are obviously releasing a different "mix" of product onto the BD market right now.

Their new (profile 2.0) models don't look so bad for the price if you ask me. Actually I think they may be moderately expensive in comparison to other brand products. But they do offer performance design items- ie. Burr Brown DAC's, HDMI source direct, wide-spectrum picture adjustments, multiple-layer chassis design (DBP-2010CI)
DBP-2010CI ($699.00)
DBP-1610 ($499.00)

It's all a matter (once again) of how reliable these unit operate over time. How robust the drives are.

Their new (profile 2.0) models don't look so bad for the price if you ask me. Actually I think they may be moderately expensive in comparison to other brand products. But they do offer performance design items- ie. Burr Brown DAC's, HDMI source direct, wide-spectrum picture adjustments, multiple-layer chassis design (DBP-2010CI)
DBP-2010CI ($699.00)
DBP-1610 ($499.00)

It's all a matter (once again) of how reliable these unit operate over time. How robust the drives are.

Word over in the BluRay groups is that they are pretty expensive relative to the feature set that everyone else offers at lower prices.

Performance is horrible though. Speed wise I mean. 13 to 17 seconds to eject a disk. 45seconds to 1.5minutes to load a BluRay disc. Etc. Its not the slowest player out there, but its about 3/4 towards the bottom. As comparison, the Oppos load the same disc in 15 seconds.

As for the warranty service on the DVD-3930CIs... if all they are doing is replacing the head... well, the head is $10 to a consumer, in bulk, much much much less. They charge $300 for warranty service. You do the math :).

The info is spread throughout this thread. It is probably best to carefully search through it (try: "laser").

I was not able to find anything other then removing the solder blob and an exploded diagram. Not very clear. Can anybody help a brotha out? :D

A couple more things - the laser head is shipped short-circuited with a small blob of solder to avoid damage from static electricity. After you swap out the laser head with the new one, you have to de-solder it to open the circuit. Check out the attached picture in post #4175 on page 140 of this thread.

You will need a small Philips head screwdriver (like the kind you will find in a jeweler's screwdriver set) to get the laser assembly apart to swap the head.

The laser head is connected by a flat plastic ribbon tape style cable - be careful with disconnecting and re-connecting as these are somewhat delicate.

PM gshelley?

As for the warranty service on the DVD-3930CIs... if all they are doing is replacing the head... well, the head is $10 to a consumer, in bulk, much much much less. They charge $300 for warranty service. You do the mathyeah, you're right, rediculous.

I've sent my DVD-3930CI unit back to factory twice to have laser/head assy replaced. $350.00 both times. When you add this to my original $1500.00 purchase cost (two years back) I have invested more than $2000.00 into this player. I admit I love the sound of analog OUT.

Also, I'm not too concerned if a player is slower-loading. I'm mostly concerned with "real" player performance (ie. video-quality, sound-quality, reliability of mechanism's over time- "skipping", "failing", etc.,...) .

I have the new Oppo BDP-83, it's definitely impressive overall (for the price). Fast-loading.

But I do prefer certain aspects of my Pioneer BDP-05FD, exceptional sound-quality, exceptional video quality, plays most disc's reliably. Although it can be slower-loading.

My DVD-3800BDCI has been mostly solid as well. Beautiful picture quality and un-surpassed 2ch OUT for CD playback.

yeah, you're right, rediculous.

I've sent my DVD-3930CI unit back to factory twice to have laser/head assy replaced. $350.00 both times. When you add this to my original $1500.00 purchase cost (two years back) I have invested more than $2000.00 into this player. I admit I love the sound of analog OUT.

Also, I'm not too concerned if a player is slower-loading. I'm mostly concerned with "real" player performance (ie. video-quality, sound-quality, reliability of mechanism's over time- "skipping", "failing", etc.,...) .

I have the new Oppo BDP-83, it's definitely impressive overall (for the price). Fast-loading.

But I do prefer certain aspects of my Pioneer BDP-05FD, exceptional sound-quality, exceptional video quality, plays most disc's reliably. Although it can be slower-loading.

My DVD-3800BDCI has been mostly solid as well. Beautiful picture quality and un-surpassed 2ch OUT for CD playback.

Yeah man... paying $2000 for a DVD player that doesn't play DVDs is disappointing :).

I finally broke down and ordered a laser head off the net for $10. Should be here sometime next week. Hopefully this will fix all my problems, but I'm skeptical. If it doesn't, I'll probably look at getting rid of it.

Somehow I don't think I'll recoup my original $1200 :(.

The 3930 also has a better video chip. I am blown away by the video quality of the 2930. I can't believe the 3930 would be that much better. Sorry (I'm going to make all the 3930 video people angry). I'm sure the 3930 is a little better in terms of video.


My dealer loaned me a 2930 to use until my 3930 shipped. I loved the 2930, and considered cancelling the 3930. When it finally showed up, they let me keep both for a few days to make up my mind (great dealer). The PQ on the 3930 was much better. No macroblocking, no mosquito noise, much cleaner picture. I got the 3930. I'm on my second unit - stupid laser - but I love it. I don't understand why an otherwise overengineered, bulletproof unit has a crappy laser assembly.

Reid

(BTW, maphiker, I'm not angry - I try not to get religious on this stuff. Its a hobby for Gods sake... :-)

I don't understand why an otherwise overengineered, bulletproof unit has a crappy laser assembly.

Reid

Others have pointed out that the same laser is used on other players with no problem. The faulty component in the 3930/2930 must be something else that is causing the laser to go bad. Maybe there is an engineer with a 3930/2930 who can figure this out?

One would think Denon could easily figure out what the real problem is and fix it. They probably don't want to pay for a recall of all the units.

I finally broke down and ordered a laser head off the net for $10. Should be here sometime next week. Hopefully this will fix all my problems, but I'm skeptical. If it doesn't, I'll probably look at getting rid of itI seriously considered just ordering the part (as you have), but preferred to just have [Denon factory] to install and configure it, even though I'm sure I could do it myself.....my unit has performed fine now for a while (knock on wood).

I think what happens otherwise is these components get dust on them and cause "skipping" or "freezing", all it needs is the be cleaned (not using a commercial cleaner, but manually)

I love itI know, I love mine (for music mostly)

I don't understand why an otherwise overengineered, bulletproof unit has a crappy laser assemblyyep

I think what happens otherwise is these components get dust on them and cause "skipping" or "freezing", all it needs is the be cleaned (not using a commercial cleaner, but manually)

My second unit will be out of warranty in a few months, so when and if I have problems, I'm likely to crack the box and investigate. The first thing I'll do is try to clean it, then go buy the laser assembly. The only thing I worry about with doing it myself is that I would assume there is some factory adjustment of the laser assembly on each unit? Not sure if it would be necessary or possible to do at home.

But I suspect you're right. I've thought it must be a combination of contaminants, heat, and perhaps static electricity. Spinning a piece of plastic at high speeds (in air) generates a lot of static electricity, which needs to be discharged somehow. Heat and SE problems can both exacerbate problems with dust. It seems unlikely, but perhaps the Denon engineers screwed this up. Don't know, just guessing.

I've said this before, and I'll say it again: I sure wish a Denon engineer at least lurked here (and occasionally provided some answers). I do this with my customers, and its a huge benefit to both the vendor and their customers. [Where's Denon Jeff? I haven't seen posts from him in a while.]

-Reid

I tried cleaning the head with both a DVD cleaning disc (which I suspected would be worthless since the VCR ones were) and manually with a q-tip. Neither fixed any issues.

I just suspect the DVD-3930CI is over-engineered to the point where it puts out a ton of heat and causes problems. Usually when my DVD-3930CI acts up to the point of no longer working, I need to shut everything down for 30 minutes or so, then it works 50% :p.

I tried cleaning the head with both a DVD cleaning disc (which I suspected would be worthless since the VCR ones were) and manually with a q-tip. Neither fixed any issuesyeah, I understand, on the Denon players (DVD-3930CI), you have to dissasemble the unit (remove the case, etc.,..) and carefully (manually) wipe the lens. Or carefully use canned propellant air.

I just suspect the DVD-3930CI is over-engineered to the point where it puts out a ton of heat and causes problems. Usually when my DVD-3930CI acts up to the point of no longer working, I need to shut everything down for 30 minutes or so, then it works 50% :p.I think this product is well-engineered, only they (Denon) did'nt provide thorough enough protoype unit-testing. They would have discovered common field products as such, and could have implemented engineering fixes before they made initial production runs.

My 2930 arrived this afternoon. Sadly it does not recognize any discs and I am returning it for a refund. What I have read here persuades me that it would be a mistake to exchange it for another that is just as likely to be doa or to fail prematurely. My question is: is there any alternative using the reon chip that will perform reliably?

Onkyo PRSC886 Pre/pro or HD805 HD-DVD player. The 885 has been absolutely bullet for me over the past 2 years. Love it! :)

My 2930 arrived this afternoon. Sadly it does not recognize any discs and I am returning it for a refund. What I have read here persuades me that it would be a mistake to exchange it for another that is just as likely to be doa or to fail prematurely. My question is: is there any alternative using the reon chip that will perform reliably?

Sorry to hear about DOA. Mine arrived 2 weeks ago and it works fine.

sierrra and ikeman, thanks for your replies.

My 2930 arrived this afternoon. Sadly it does not recognize any discs and I am returning it for a refund. What I have read here persuades me that it would be a mistake to exchange it for another that is just as likely to be doa or to fail prematurely. My question is: is there any alternative using the reon chip that will perform reliably?


Sorry to hear that.

FWIW, I have recently purchased Denon DVD-2930ci (used for only a week, then set aside (just put it back on my rack a few minutes ago)) and it works fine.

So it may be like the 1st Denon DVD-5910ci that I recently got (from Crutchfield but actually purchased through Amazon with Crutchfield as the supplier (for sale of $2k vs the $3.8k list)). Anyway the unit seemed to have minor problems reading DVD movies as well as not reading any self burned DVD-R and DVD+R videos. Roughly 10 days later I saw that Amazon now had the unit for $1k (from ListenUp, which Crutchfield soon matched), so I bought another one at $1k from ListenUp thinking that I might buy two of them for a total of the same $2k that I'd already paid (confident that I could call up Crutchfield and get the new $1k price.)

Turned out that the 2nd unit reads the discs that the 1st unit wouldn't. Changed my mind about getting two units and returned the defective 1st unit to Crutchfield for a *full* refund (including shipping both ways).

FWIW, I just went to www.amazon.com and searched on: denon sacd player

... and see that Amazon is still offering the Denon DVD-2930ci player at attractive closeout (76% off list) through Vann's at $199.88.

If you decide to go for a 2nd unit (Denon 2930ci), be aware that a number of people have posted about possible laser reading issues with this unit, and if you are handy with fixing stuff you might want to read through this entire thread about buying the cheap $15 laser unit that you can likely replace yourself.

You also might want to call up Vann's about whether or not an on-line purchase from them is covered by Denon's warranty as a legitimate purchase (covered by warranty).

Cheers

Othersongs,

Thanks for your observations. Actually I did purchase my 2930 from Vanns because of their attractive price. They do claim to an authorized seller for every product they carry. I am sure that my experience with Denon is not typical but it was cautionary especially in light of the frequent reports of laser failure (on this thread in fact). I was impressed with the substantial build of the thing and wish I had a chance to actually view something on it. It seems that many of the 29/30s do fail if not immediately then far sooner that such a quality product ought to. I am glad that your experience was more fortunate; but I never select the "feeling lucky" panel on Google. And I am not very handy with things smaller than wheelbarrows, so I decided to go for a refund .

Othersongs,

Thanks for your observations. Actually I did purchase my 2930 from Vanns because of their attractive price. They do claim to an authorized seller for every product they carry. I am sure that my experience with Denon is not typical but it was cautionary especially in light of the frequent reports of laser failure (on this thread in fact). I was impressed with the substantial build of the thing and wish I had a chance to actually view something on it. It seems that many of the 29/30s do fail if not immediately then far sooner that such a quality product ought to. I am glad that your experience was more fortunate;


My experience with my closeout Denon DVD-2930ci player has (so far) been good. My experience with the 4 times as expensive Denon DVD-5910ci player took buying two of them, as well as some faith in the generally very positive posting about it in the "5910" thread (no ci mentioned, but clearly includes both the original 5910 as well as the updated 5910ci).

but I never select the "feeling lucky" panel on Google. And I am not very handy with things smaller than wheelbarrows, so I decided to go for a refund .


No worries.

My general impression is that there are a number of other decent DVD player closeout deals (50% or more) on other well known brand names, but my experience is limited mainly to Denon players.

The big companies clearly think that the extra profit that Blu-ray players currently get merit their dumping of their DVD player units, pretty much across the board.

I'm happy to take advantage of that. :)

IMO, it remains to be seen if Blu-ray movies will survive given that it is unlikely to be as inexpensive as DVD movies anytime soon; even though it has recently gotten somewhat closer.

To the general public, DVD movies are IMO like VHS was during the VHS/Beta war, and low price is what wins a war of this type.

Hence, I'm not buying into Blu-ray until the price is equal, *and* DVD is clearly on the way out.

Good luck whatever you do.

Cheers

Hence, I'm not buying into Blu-ray until the price is equal, *and* DVD is clearly on the way out.


If you only rent and/or rarely buy, then blu-ray is maybe not the best choice. Since my DVD-3930CI is such a piece of **** and there aren't any *really* good blu-ray players out there yet... I've taken to just using the DirecTV video-on-demand service. Yeah, its $5.99 per movie vs. $2.99 (?) for a BluRay from NetFlix, but...

1) I don't need to buy a flakey piece of early gen hardware for lots of $$$
2) DirecTV video-on-demand is 1080p "out of the box"... I already have the DVR and the TV, so I'm set as far as hardware goes
3) No waiting for your queue to process and deal with shipping back & forth
4) The DirecTV VOD service *sometimes* gets 1080p movies *before* they are out on DVD/BluRay.

Only downside is that they only have X amount of movies available at once. Its a fairly large amount, but they don't stay available for ever. So clearly Netflix or Blockbuster has a bigger selection.

But if its new movies you are after, the service clearly beats everything else. Sure I pay $3 more a movie, but considering a BluRay player is $600, I'd have to rent 200 movies just to break even on the hardware :).

Looks like my new optical pick up is due to arrive on the 28th. Ended up paying $20 for the part + ridiculous S&H. Hopefully this will render my POS DVD-3930CI usable once again :mad:.

Looks like my new optical pick up is due to arrive on the 28th. Ended up paying $20 for the part + ridiculous S&H. Hopefully this will rended my POS DVD-3930CI usable once again :mad:.

I think it fair to say, we are all rooting for you! :)

Looks like my new optical pick up is due to arrive on the 28th. Ended up paying $20 for the part + ridiculous S&H. Hopefully this will render my POS DVD-3930CI usable once again :mad:.

I just picked one of these optical head things up for my 2930. Are there step-by-step instructions for how to install this? I don't want to make the situation worse by mucking it up. Thanks!

Ok guys, I replaced my laser head today... although I mysteriously ended up with an extra 4 screws :eek:. I expected 2 extra ones because of those 2 hard to reach mother****ers on the vertical brackets, but dunno where the other 2 came from :(. Oh well.

Anyways, the DVD-3930CI seems to be behaving a little better now. It seems like it loads discs normally and can navigate to sub menus and stuff and even play the f'n movie! :D. It can even do chapter skips without crashing.

Still a bit on the slow side though :(. But maybe its at least usable now.

Can anyone give me the link to the latest firmware update that I can put on a US model? Can't seem to find the link anymore. I might risk doing that now that I can actually read discs.

Ok guys, I replaced my laser head today... although I mysteriously ended up with an extra 4 screws :eek:. I expected 2 extra ones because of those 2 hard to reach mother****ers on the vertical brackets, but dunno where the other 2 came from :(. Oh well.

Anyways, the DVD-3930CI seems to be behaving a little better now. It seems like it loads discs normally and can navigate to sub menus and stuff and even play the f'n movie! :D. It can even do chapter skips without crashing.

Still a bit on the slow side though :(. But maybe its at least usable now.

Can anyone give me the link to the latest firmware update that I can put on a US model? Can't seem to find the link anymore. I might risk doing that now that I can actually read discs.


Interesting follow-up (and gutsy) post. :)

With regard to firmware updates, my memory is that there may be some but for whatever reason Denon does not provide them in the USA. But do in Europe? I know, shocking and hard to believe. Maybe I'll be proved wrong?

All in all, not a bad recovery of a $1,500 player for a $15 part. :)

Cheers

Interesting follow-up (and gutsy) post. :)

With regard to firmware updates, my memory is that there may be some but for whatever reason Denon does not provide them in the USA. But do in Europe? I know, shocking and hard to believe. Maybe I'll be proved wrong?

All in all, not a bad recovery of a $1,500 player for a $15 part. :)

Cheers

I thought the firmware was loadable on the US version?

Yes, a $15 (actually $11 + $9 for S&H -- it came in a padded envelope... I wonder how that cost $9? Oh Well) saved my $1500 DVD from ending up in the garbage. I even found where those 2 extra screws went... forgot about the 2 on the back.

One aspect of stress removed from my life now :). Only a few more to go :).

I still say the player is a little wonky... but much better. It was 0/10 before the head swap and so far from my quick tests it has moved up to 7/10 :).

With all that being said, while it fixed the player for the most part, you will never convince me that a $1500 DVD player should need to have it head swapped :).

I just picked one of these optical head things up for my 2930. Are there step-by-step instructions for how to install this? I don't want to make the situation worse by mucking it up. Thanks!

I didn't find any. You'll need a soldering iron and solder wick plus an extra long (like 12"+) philips head #2 to get to these two screws holding brackets that hold on the head covers. Other then that it was pretty basic. Take off the outer cover, then take off the inner cover. I have a 3930, so your mileage may vary from here on out. You need to undo the 6 or so screws from the silver vertical brackets covering the drive, plus another 2 hard to reach ones on the side of said brackets. Thats what the long screw driver is for, you need to go through holes in the side of the case to get to them. Oh yeah... make sure your drawer is open before you start. Then just undo the 2 screws holding the bracket on those 2 round rods... be VERY careful here.. lots of small parts can fly everywhich way... 2 or 3 springs, etc. Make sure you note how it goes back together :). Pull the flat ribbon cable connecting the head and slide it off the rods and put the new one on... now desolder that solder blob you are supposed to desolder. There is only one solder blob on the circuit board, so it should be obvious... now just reconnect and reassemble. Sorry, didn't bother to take any pics, but this should pretty much describe it once you get inside. May be different for the 2930 though.

EDIT: You only need to remove one of the vertical brackets... you'll know which one... the other one has ribbon cables running through it... you just need to loosen it enough so you can take the covers off the drive.

With all that being said, while it fixed the player for the most part, you will never convince me that a $1500 DVD player should need to have it head swapped :).


IMO, there is no single perfect player.

And all of them are subject to failure.

I run 9 disc players on my system.

6 of them are 5.1 play capable.

3 of them are run 2 channel only; a high quality hard disk drive music server, an ordinary DVD recorder, and a fairly high quality 2 channel only CD/SACD player.

All of them into a Bel Canto Pre6 MC pre.

The 5.1's go into one of two Zektor MAS7 switchers, which go into the two 5.1 BC Pre6 5.1 inputs.

FWIW I do not think that you have to go bananas with inputs, only that it makes a lot of sense to have two or more players inputing into your system.

Just a possible (?) key idea. :)

Cheers

Can anyone give me the link to the latest firmware update that I can put on a US model? Can't seem to find the link anymore. I might risk doing that now that I can actually read discs.

See post #4043 in this thread. Thanks to Dutchman!

I just picked one of these optical head things up for my 2930. Are there step-by-step instructions for how to install this? I don't want to make the situation worse by mucking it up. Thanks!

I made a compilation of posts from this thread. Although no exact step-by-step instructions exist, several people have described the process. This file is rather crude so please use it at your own risk. When I have more time, I will try to document the posts from which I took information. Thank you to those who contributed. I welcome any suggestions and I hope this will help.

BTW, I have not needed to replace the laser on my player but I expect I may need to in the future.

See post #4043 in this thread. Thanks to Dutchman!

Thanks... heres a direct link to the post:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=15699740#post15699740

I didn't find any. You'll need a soldering iron and solder wick plus an extra long (like 12"+) philips head #2 to get to these two screws holding brackets that hold on the head covers. Other then that it was pretty basic. Take off the outer cover, then take off the inner cover. I have a 3930, so your mileage may vary from here on out. You need to undo the 6 or so screws from the silver vertical brackets covering the drive, plus another 2 hard to reach ones on the side of said brackets. Thats what the long screw driver is for, you need to go through holes in the side of the case to get to them. Oh yeah... make sure your drawer is open before you start. Then just undo the 2 screws holding the bracket on those 2 round rods... be VERY careful here.. lots of small parts can fly everywhich way... 2 or 3 springs, etc. Make sure you note how it goes back together :). Pull the flat ribbon cable connecting the head and slide it off the rods and put the new one on... now desolder that solder blob you are supposed to desolder. There is only one solder blob on the circuit board, so it should be obvious... now just reconnect and reassemble. Sorry, didn't bother to take any pics, but this should pretty much describe it once you get inside. May be different for the 2930 though.

EDIT: You only need to remove one of the vertical brackets... you'll know which one... the other one has ribbon cables running through it... you just need to loosen it enough so you can take the covers off the drive.

Fantastic - thank you! :-)

Hello:

Here's a general question for 2930CI owners. I just picked mine up from eCOST--smokin' deal. I'm hearing an audio pop when switching between DVD menu options (play movie, bonus features, etc.). The pop can be heard from the HDMI feed as well as the RCA patch to my old receiver.

The picture and sound (2CH stereo) are flawless.

Does anyone have any experience with this problem. I'm assuming the firmware is current. Perhaps someone out there knows of a DENON menu fix?

Thanks for all the info and passion!

Peace,

Sal

TV - Mitsubishi WD-73833
Receiver - DENON DRA-425R

Hello:

Here's a general question for 2930CI owners. I just picked mine up from eCOST--smokin' deal. I'm hearing an audio pop when switching between DVD menu options (play movie, bonus features, etc.). The pop can be heard from the HDMI feed as well as the RCA patch to my old receiver.

The picture and sound (2CH stereo) are flawless.

Does anyone have any experience with this problem. I'm assuming the firmware is current. Perhaps someone out there knows of a DENON menu fix?

Thanks for all the info and passion!

Peace,

Sal

TV - Mitsubishi WD-73833
Receiver - DENON DRA-425R

Hey You may not be getting any answers because no one else is expereincing it.

I certainly haven't.

Do you have any disc info? Any worse than others or is it doing it on all?

Sounds like a problem with the player.

What amp do you have?

I did have that issue once and it was amp related not player.

Maybe try a different input.

Ta Dono

Hi Ta Dono:

Thanks for your response. I guess this is a unique problem. :(

Since my post, I've spoken with DENON tech support, and Ean suggested the unit is faulty. So, the 2930CI is in the mail tomorrow.

This breaks my heart because when it works, the picture and sound are stellar.

The malfunctions happen on all discs.

I'm using a basic DENON DRA-425R 2CH stereo receiver (50W).

I had no problems with my previous SONY DVD; further, I also hear the audio pops on the TV direct HDMI connection.

It looks like I'm back in the market for a DVD.

Thanks again for your time.

Peace,

Sal

1) I don't need to buy a flakey piece of early gen hardware for lots of $$$
2) DirecTV video-on-demand is 1080p "out of the box"... I already have the DVR and the TV, so I'm set as far as hardware goes
3) No waiting for your queue to process and deal with shipping back & forth
4) The DirecTV VOD service *sometimes* gets 1080p movies *before* they are out on DVD/BluRay.

On the other hand if you think the quality that DirecTV or DISH provide via VOD is anywhere near that provided by BD, you either need a new display or a visit to an optometrist.

I can compress a signal down to 5 MBps so it's nothing but macroblocks but still call it 1080p if it's processed at that resolution.

Then there's the question of standard 5.1 audio vs. the high resolution lossless codecs available on BD.

As far as being flaky - no more so than DirecTV boxes are.

I see that 2930 can still be found brand new nowadays.

How about 3930?

I see that 2930 can still be found brand new nowadays.

How about 3930?

Amazon.com still has it.

Amazon.com still has it.

You mean Amazon 3rd party seller from Canada with 2 feedbacks:D

I think i would like to find one from a little more reliable source, perhaps from Denon authorized dealer with warranty.

But thanks for the tip anyway.

I write mainly to thank you guys for the valuable information and instructions on how to replace a faulty dvd denon 2930 transport mechanism. I had bought it 3 years ago for 800 euro. I play it via hdmi (and multi channel analog for sacd) on a yamaha rxv-2600 to a 7.1 crystalaudio THX certified speaker setup and an Epson tw600 projector.The main advantage of this universal player over competition has always been its video quality as audio quality is excellent -a common thing even in cheap players nowadays. Therefore i was disappointed when i noticed-soon after it's purchase- the poor behaviour (freezings) mainly on burned dvd-r disks that played perfectly in other machines i own.My theory at the time was that probably a firmware upgrade could resolve potential incompatibilities with certain dvd-r brands so i did it and really noticed a partial success.As an audiophile i used it mainly as cd player for 2 channel or 7.1 prologic2x reproduction.I never had problems wih cd and dvdaudio disks.Then i noticed (shortly after warranty ended ) the dreadfull problem with sacds.As for 2 channel sacds this was not a big deal as there is not any audible difference to cd layer (abx tests have confirmed that , see AES) but multichannel sacds certainly have an advantage.Then , i discovered this forum and realized that i was one of many unlucky owners with the same unacceptable hardware problem.I ordered a transport mechanism from USA (I live in Greece) and a separate laser- only part, from UK as an alternative.
The repair went well.Initally I cleaned the laser with an alcoholic solution used for digital ccd in SLRs, but it did'nt do any diffence.Then i removed the transport mechanism and replaced it with the new one.The only difficulty was in reconnecting the ribbon cable that goes underneath the cirquit board.Perhaps I should try to disassemble the unit further.
Anyway, my brand new mechanism performs well and both dvd-r and multichannel sacds play as designed to.
Now, what am i supposed to do?Should i replace my trustworthy yamaha receiver to a new series denon one to take advantage of a)audyssey system b) denon link and c) more hdmi inputs or not?To trust Denon or not?Soon i ll'have to replace the laser unit again.Should'nt an oppo blue ray, for example, be a better option?
Anyway, thanks a lot for your guidance and sorry if my story is another boring repeat of the same problem

I write mainly to thank you guys for the valuable information and instructions on how to replace a faulty dvd denon 2930 transport mechanism. I had bought it 3 years ago for 800 euro. I play it via hdmi (and multi channel analog for sacd) on a yamaha rxv-2600 to a 7.1 crystalaudio THX certified speaker setup and an Epson tw600 projector.The main advantage of this universal player over competition has always been its video quality as audio quality is excellent -a common thing even in cheap players nowadays. Therefore i was disappointed when i noticed-soon after it's purchase- the poor behaviour (freezings) mainly on burned dvd-r disks that played perfectly in other machines i own.My theory at the time was that probably a firmware upgrade could resolve potential incompatibilities with certain dvd-r brands so i did it and really noticed a partial success.As an audiophile i used it mainly as cd player for 2 channel or 7.1 prologic2x reproduction.I never had problems wih cd and dvdaudio disks.Then i noticed (shortly after warranty ended ) the dreadfull problem with sacds.As for 2 channel sacds this was not a big deal as there is not any audible difference to cd layer (abx tests have confirmed that , see AES) but multichannel sacds certainly have an advantage.Then , i discovered this forum and realized that i was one of many unlucky owners with the same unacceptable hardware problem.I ordered a transport mechanism from USA (I live in Greece) and a separate laser- only part, from UK as an alternative.
The repair went well.Initally I cleaned the laser with an alcoholic solution used for digital ccd in SLRs, but it did'nt do any diffence.Then i removed the transport mechanism and replaced it with the new one.The only difficulty was in reconnecting the ribbon cable that goes underneath the cirquit board.Perhaps I should try to disassemble the unit further.
Anyway, my brand new mechanism performs well and both dvd-r and multichannel sacds play as designed to.
Now, what am i supposed to do?Should i replace my trustworthy yamaha receiver to a new series denon one to take advantage of a)audyssey system b) denon link and c) more hdmi inputs or not?To trust Denon or not?Soon i ll'have to replace the laser unit again.Should'nt an oppo blue ray, for example, be a better option?
Anyway, thanks a lot for your guidance and sorry if my story is another boring repeat of the same problem

I hear what you are saying.

I have always had Denon and this unit has been there most un-reliable. However I have changed the laser twice and it works great. I am just going to look for the symptoms and keep changing the laser.

I wouldn't let this put you off Denon. They make great stuff.

I currently run the AVR 3808 with no updates done (2 years old). With no issues. Great AVR and the 3810 looks to be even better.

The DVD 2500 BTCI blu-ray player (18 months old). Latest update and no issues. Once again great player with the best build quality I have seen yet in a Blu-player.

The DVD 3930 (3 years old). Latest Firmware on video board and firmware. Only issue is laser goe's every 18 months. I look at it like a Porshe. Looks great, performs awsome but sometimes it needs a new part.

The Denon stuff has worked well for me and I love there look and build quality.

Go for a new Denon.

Ta

Dono:):)

I have a Denon 3930CI mated with the 4310CI. Previously I was using the 3806 with no problems.

The problem I have now is with the 3930CI. When I play any SACD disk the SACD light on the 3930CI does not light up. I've reset the processor,checked to make sure the Denon Link is on but still no SACD light but the DVD light lights up on movies.

Am I doing something wrong or does the 3930CI needs to be services?

I have a Denon 3930CI mated with the 4310CI. Previously I was using the 3806 with no problems.

The problem I have now is with the 3930CI. When I play any SACD disk the SACD light on the 3930CI does not light up. I've reset the processor,checked to make sure the Denon Link is on but still no SACD light but the DVD light lights up on movies.

Am I doing something wrong or does the 3930CI needs to be services?

Hi,

I presume you have everything connected okay?
Esspecialy the Denon Link.

Try playing a DTS Dvd. If everything is displayed on your Amp correctly "DTS Logo" then the Denon Link should be correct.

If the SACD light is then still not lighting up, then it is most likely your laser unit has gone. There is plenty of info on this forum about that. I have even posted the part no. for the laser. I can't remember it at the moment. About two months back.

I have replaced by laser unit twice. The SACD light not lighting was one of the symptoms. There are many more like:

CD's wont go to next track.
SACD only playing CD layer.
A long time to load up DVD Menu's

So you can test that as well.

Let us know how you get on.

I am jealous of the 4310. It sounds like a beast. I like the multi sub outputs. I have 3 subs. Do they do Multi EQ seperatly on the subs?

Ta

Dono:):)

Hi,

I presume you have everything connected okay?
Esspecialy the Denon Link.

Try playing a DTS Dvd. If everything is displayed on your Amp correctly "DTS Logo" then the Denon Link should be correct.

If the SACD light is then still not lighting up, then it is most likely your laser unit has gone. There is plenty of info on this forum about that. I have even posted the part no. for the laser. I can't remember it at the moment. About two months back.

I have replaced by laser unit twice. The SACD light not lighting was one of the symptoms. There are many more like:

CD's wont go to next track.
SACD only playing CD layer.
A long time to load up DVD Menu's

So you can test that as well.

Let us know how you get on.

I am jealous of the 4310. It sounds like a beast. I like the multi sub outputs. I have 3 subs. Do they do Multi EQ seperatly on the subs?

Ta

Dono:):)

Yes. Everything is connected including the Denon Link.
I put in a DTS DVD but I'm still not getting a DTS light on the 3930CI or the 4310. I'm getting the DVD Dolby Digital light on both the 3930CI and 4310.
But that's it.

I think I have that dreaded laser pickup problem.

The Denon Link appears but not the DTS on the 3930CI or the 4310.:mad:
I've already searched the Laser Pickup on Ebay it's been 1 of my watched items for a while.

I've read earlier posts on the 3930CI and heard of others having similar problems. I just thought it only affected loading and previous/next which I definitely have. All of those problems you mention I also have.

Time to order that New Laser pickup!!!
bout the 4310 with multi-subs outputs I only 1 sub-out on my 4310.
Using Multi-EQ for multi-subs that I can't answer I have 1 15in Earthquake and that's all I need and more for this apartment.
I'm a newbie not capable of answering that question now.

Much Thanks.............:)

Yes. Everything is connected including the Denon Link.
I put in a DTS DVD but I'm still not getting a DTS light on the 3930CI or the 4310. I'm getting the DVD Dolby Digital light on both the 3930CI and 4310.
But that's it.

I think I have that dreaded laser pickup problem.

The Denon Link appears but not the DTS on the 3930CI or the 4310.:mad:
I've already searched the Laser Pickup on Ebay it's been 1 of my watched items for a while.

I've read earlier posts on the 3930CI and heard of others having similar problems. I just thought it only affected loading and previous/next which I definitely have. All of those problems you mention I also have.

Time to order that New Laser pickup!!!
bout the 4310 with multi-subs outputs I only 1 sub-out on my 4310.
Using Multi-EQ for multi-subs that I can't answer I have 1 15in Earthquake and that's all I need and more for this apartment.
I'm a newbie not capable of answering that question now.

Much Thanks.............:)

Yeah, It sounds like a laser. Don't worry about it too much. Once it is replaced the player works like a dream. I just look for the symptoms and replace.

Make sure you have the latest firmware. CD and on video board. The video board needs to be done by Denon, but it is really worth while.

Ta

Dono:):)

Even after reading through all of the horror stories of laser failure, I still picked up a new 2930 from a local 6th Ave Elec earlier this week. They matched the price that Vann's has on their website, so I grabbed one of these otherwise fantastic players.

I have a couple of BD players, but I want them strictly for BD and the 2930 for DVD and music. With all the laser issues, I'm wondering if I should spring for ext warranty from 6th Ave, or just buy a traverse and keep it "in stock." :p

After reading all the great tips on tweaks from other members, I have to say the PQ is quite good. Of course, not as good as BD but SDVDs look very, very good. It may not have the "pop" of BD but the quality is excellent and natural looking. Now, I will only buy/rent the action/special effects movies on BD and everything else on SDVD. Also, I'm using the 2CH analog for CDs and it sounds great.

I guess the issue with my 2930 will be reliability but with that aside, I'm very happy with the unit. On another note, since Denon has seen fit not to offer fw updates on their US site, can another 2930 owner confirm if my fw of 8283-9 is current? Thanks in advance.

Edit: Just did a search and it looks like 8283-E is most current??? Can someone direct me as to how to get it, as the Euro site won't accept my serial number?

Btw, my local 6th Ave also had a couple of new 3930 units if anyone is interested. I'm sure they would be willing to move them reasonably. :D

Mike T

Miketee, check this post
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=15646975#post15646975

Miketee, check this post
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=15646975#post15646975

Thanks, rsalexan. That rapidshare link appears to be dead. I did manage to find a megaload link elsewhere in this thread but that was for fw version 8283-C. Seems that the rapidshare links have a short shelf life.

Hopefully, someone can either point me to a live link, or email it to me. :) If not, I'll just stick with what I have. I was reading a German website and it seems that 8283-9 was a fairly major update, compared to what followed.

Thanks again,
Mike T

hi there!

I am also looking for the newest E firmware for the 2930.

Can anyone point me out to the right direction?

Thank you!

What do you think ofthis Laser Head (http://cgi.ebay.com/100-New-DVD-Optical-Laser-Lens-SANYO-SF-HD65-HD-65_W0QQitemZ260491305929QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_ 0?hash=item3ca67de3c9) that costs 12$ less thanthe laser-head provided in some previous post (http://cgi.ebay.com/DVD-Laser-Head-Denon-2930-3930-SANYO-Philips_W0QQitemZ230375655097QQcmdZViewItemQQptZDVD_Players_ Recorders?hash=item35a37586b9) (i don't remember)? Are they both suitable for my 2930?

I wonder why that difference... :confused:

I'm suffering (mainly) SACD problems with my 2930 (doesn't recognize the multi-channel layer while it did it perfectly months before with the same SACD) so probably I will repair the laser-head by myself.

I am also looking for the newest E firmware for the 2930.

Can anyone point me out to the right direction?

If you're european located you can download the firmware from the official site (http://firmware.denon-online.eu/index.php)

Cheers.

Thanks for the link, maphiker. :) Just d/l it a few min ago.

Mike T

I'm suffering (mainly) SACD problems with my 2930 (doesn't recognize the multi-channel layer while it did it perfectly months before with the same SACD) so probably I will repair the laser-head by myself.

I ordered one of these factory new units online and received it last week mainly for 2 channel music (SACD, DVD-A, HDCD, CD, etc.. for $199). Right out of the box, the unit was very slow to load SACDs and would only recognize 2 of the dozen or so hybrid SACDs I tried as SACD.

Oddly, it recogized a Living Stereo Hybrid SACD as SACD and then like an hour later when I tried it again, it said it was a CD.

It did play regular CDs ok and recogized the HDCD encoded CDs as such.
The transport was not whisper quiet, but, not audible with music playing.

I emailed Denon product support and they said my unit sounded defective.

So, I arranged for an exchange and have sent back the unit a few days ago.

From what I reading online, I wouldn't be surprised if the exchanged unit failed right out of the box. And, if it does work, how long before the laser assy. craps out?

Soundwise, it sounded pretty darn good with CD, HDCD and the 2 SACDs I played. I guess that's why I'm willing to give it another try before requesting a refund.

So, if it is the laser assembly crapping out, how could it be so bad that even factory new units fail? (at least mine was stated to be factory new). Quality Control anyone?

I ordered one of these factory new units online and received it last week mainly for 2 channel music (SACD, DVD-A, HDCD, CD, etc.. for $199). Right out of the box, the unit was very slow to load SACDs and would only recognize 2 of the dozen or so hybrid SACDs I tried as SACD.

Oddly, it recogized a Living Stereo Hybrid SACD as SACD and then like an hour later when I tried it again, it said it was a CD.

It did play regular CDs ok and recogized the HDCD encoded CDs as such.
The transport was not whisper quiet, but, not audible with music playing.

I emailed Denon product support and they said my unit sounded defective.

So, I arranged for an exchange and have sent back the unit a few days ago.

From what I reading online, I wouldn't be surprised if the exchanged unit failed right out of the box. And, if it does work, how long before the laser assy. craps out?

Soundwise, it sounded pretty darn good with CD, HDCD and the 2 SACDs I played. I guess that's why I'm willing to give it another try before requesting a refund.

So, if it is the laser assembly crapping out, how could it be so bad that even factory new units fail? (at least mine was stated to be factory new). Quality Control anyone?

Hey,

I don't know what a factory new unit is? Is it a reco?

My laser unit failed when it was new. However I think it was used in a shop before I got it. Feet marks on top and it was old firmware.

However I have had 3 lasers changed (about 12-18months) at minimal charge, and all has been good. I don't really care about it. The rest of the unit is bloody good, so I have the opinion that you have to change the laser occasionally. Small price to pay for a very good player.

Ta Dono:):)

firmware update for dvd 2930. Dated jan 22, 2009.

...

Enjoy! :)


omg!! Thank you very very much!!!

aoshiken,

THank you! but my 2930 is USA version!

Hey,

I don't know what a factory new unit is? Is it a reco?

My laser unit failed when it was new. However I think it was used in a shop before I got it. Feet marks on top and it was old firmware.

However I have had 3 lasers changed (about 12-18months) at minimal charge, and all has been good. I don't really care about it. The rest of the unit is bloody good, so I have the opinion that you have to change the laser occasionally. Small price to pay for a very good player.

Ta Dono:):)

I ordered it from Vann's online which claims factory new (brand new, not a refurb or customer return) and also claim to be authorized seller for every product they sell. I agreed to an exchange and recently sent the defective unit back. If the next one is also bad out of the box, I can return it at their cost and get a refund.

Did you purchase & change the laser assy. yourself? Is it difficult to do?
I saw the brief writeup on replacing the laser, but, would love to see some detailed pictures.

omg!! Thank you very very much!!!

You are welcome very much! :)

I ordered it from Vann's online which claims factory new (brand new, not a refurb or customer return) and also claim to be authorized seller for every product they sell. I agreed to an exchange and recently sent the defective unit back. If the next one is also bad out of the box, I can return it at their cost and get a refund.

Did you purchase & change the laser assy. yourself? Is it difficult to do?
I saw the brief writeup on replacing the laser, but, would love to see some detailed pictures.

Hi,

First two Lasers were under warranty. We in New Zealand have a 2 year warranty on Denon. We actually have a law (Consumers Garanties Act) that says all electronics sold to general consumers must last a minium of 5 years. It is inforceable in our courts for a $30 fee.
The third I paid myself US$20.00 and I watched a Denon tech replace. It was really easy, 5 minute job. However I didn't take photo's:eek::eek:

Ta

Dono:):)

I have been enjoying my 2930 for two and a half years without any serious problems. Recently I bought some of the newly remastered stereo Beatle albums. My 2930 has problems playing the Rubber Soul CD. It does not recognize all the tracks, skips and stalls when I try playing it. The other Beatle remasters I have play perfectly, as do my DVDAs and SACDs.

I know, this is probablely the beginning of the end of my laser. :( But, it is odd that all the other discs play OK.

Has anyone else had problems with the new stereo Rubber Soul CD?

I have been enjoying my 2930 for two and a half years without any serious problems. Recently I bought some of the newly remastered stereo Beatle albums. My 2930 has problems playing the Rubber Soul CD. It does not recognize all the tracks, skips and stalls when I try playing it. The other Beatle remasters I have play perfectly, as do my DVDAs and SACDs.

I know, this is probablely the beginning of the end of my laser. :( But, it is odd that all the other discs play OK.

Has anyone else had problems with the new stereo Rubber Soul CD?Not sure if this helps, but I own the '3930 and purchased the stereo box set of all the Beatles remasters, as well as several of the mono versions on eBay (can you tell I'm a Beatles nut?). At this point, I have played just about all of the discs without any problem. Then, again, I have also applied every firmware upgrade that's come out and, following some issues before the first firmware update, I haven't had any problems with the '3930 in all that time.

Not sure if this helps, but I own the '3930 and purchased the stereo box set of all the Beatles remasters, as well as several of the mono versions on eBay (can you tell I'm a Beatles nut?) At this point, I have played just about all of the discs without any problem. Then, again, I have also applied every firmware upgrade that's come out and, following some issues before the first firmware update, I haven't had any problems with the '3930 in all that time.

Thanks for the reply. I wonder if it could be a 2930 issue?
Also, I forget to mention, the Rubber Soul CD plays fine on my Sony CD/SACD player.

I have been enjoying my 2930 for two and a half years without any serious problems. Recently I bought some of the newly remastered stereo Beatle albums. My 2930 has problems playing the Rubber Soul CD. It does not recognize all the tracks, skips and stalls when I try playing it. The other Beatle remasters I have play perfectly, as do my DVDAs and SACDs.

I know, this is probablely the beginning of the end of my laser. :( But, it is odd that all the other discs play OK.

Has anyone else had problems with the new stereo Rubber Soul CD?

It could be laser or firmware.

When my lasers went. It would play some DVD's / CD's with no issues, but others would be pull your hair out fustration. You will tell in time. When the laser starts to fail it goes downhill rapidly:eek::mad::eek:

Ta

Dono:):)

I have been enjoying my 2930 for two and a half years without any serious problems. Recently I bought some of the newly remastered stereo Beatle albums. My 2930 has problems playing the Rubber Soul CD. It does not recognize all the tracks, skips and stalls when I try playing it. The other Beatle remasters I have play perfectly, as do my DVDAs and SACDs.

I know, this is probablely the beginning of the end of my laser. :( But, it is odd that all the other discs play OK.

Has anyone else had problems with the new stereo Rubber Soul CD?

Just for the heck of it, have you tried playing a copy of that cd? Maybe for whatever reason, your 2930 is having a problem with that media.

Mike T

Just for the heck of it, have you tried playing a copy of that cd? Maybe for whatever reason, your 2930 is having a problem with that media.

Mike T

Yeah, the copy plays! But now the original CD plays too!?? :confused:

I have a replacement laser/traverse mechanism ready on the shelf just in case. :)

Yeah, the copy plays! But now the original CD plays too!?? :confused:

I have a replacement laser/traverse mechanism ready on the shelf just in case. :)

Maybe playing the original in your Sony player "healed" it. :D Seriously, maybe just an anomaly....static, dust etc.

Anyway, glad to hear that it's now working but based on the history of this model, smart move having that replacement mech handy. ;)

Mke T

Well my 2930 is having a harder and harder time finding menus. Most of the time, when the film/tv show has finished it'll grind and grind and then stop. Just tonight it wouldn't find the menu on a disc straight after inserting it.

I have two laser replacement thingies standing by but I'm not electrically minded at all and, to be honest, am extremely nervous about potentially wrecking the machine altogether.

Well my 2930 is having a harder and harder time finding menus. Most of the time, when the film/tv show has finished it'll grind and grind and then stop. Just tonight it wouldn't find the menu on a disc straight after inserting it.

I have two laser replacement thingies standing by but I'm not electrically minded at all and, to be honest, am extremely nervous about potentially wrecking the machine altogether.

Perhaps a local electronics shop would be willing to do it for less than Denon.

Perhaps a local electronics shop would be willing to do it for less than Denon.

Yeah, that's what I was thinking. It's not the cost that bothers me, it's the speed and quality of the workmanship.

Well my 2930 is having a harder and harder time finding menus. Most of the time, when the film/tv show has finished it'll grind and grind and then stop. Just tonight it wouldn't find the menu on a disc straight after inserting it.

I have two laser replacement thingies standing by but I'm not electrically minded at all and, to be honest, am extremely nervous about potentially wrecking the machine altogether.


How long have you had your machine? And, does it still play music only discs ok (like CDs, HDCD, SACD, DVD-A)?

I recently received mine... defective out of the box (very very slow to load hybrid SACDs and only recognized 2 hi-rez layers of the dozen I tried). The transport grinding away didn't seem right. Sent it back and waiting for another one.

How long have you had your machine? And, does it still play music only discs ok (like CDs, HDCD, SACD, DVD-A)?

I recently received mine... defective out of the box (very very slow to load hybrid SACDs and only recognized 2 hi-rez layers of the dozen I tried). The transport grinding away didn't seem right. Sent it back and waiting for another one.

I've had this particular model for about a year. I have another machine which was even worse but was fixed by Denon (and is now in storage for emergency purposes)

Yup this plays CDs and other audio discs fine. It plays DVDs fine - once it gets past the menus!!

Denon should be ashamed really.

I've had this particular model for about a year. I have another machine which was even worse but was fixed by Denon (and is now in storage for emergency purposes)

Yup this plays CDs and other audio discs fine. It plays DVDs fine - once it gets past the menus!!

Denon should be ashamed really.

Yeah, it's strange that with the availability of ISO9000+ standards, 6-Sigma QC, blah blah blah, that we even experience defects like this. I can't imagine paying original retail price for this questionable reliability.

My interest is having a very nice sounding universal audio player for the current affordable price. I should say to heck with this and just move on, but, the $199 price and potential sound quality (when it works) are very appealing.

Currently waiting for the vendor to ship a new replacement unit. HOpefully they don't send me the one I sent back.

Yeah, it's strange that with the availability of ISO9000+ standards, 6-Sigma QC, blah blah blah, that we even experience defects like this. I can't imagine paying original retail price for this questionable reliability.

Yup. I paid £700 for each of my players. That's around $1200 each. And they can't even navigate menus for more than 12 months without breaking down. I was hoping they would set me for life.

I love Denon receivers. Brilliant kit. But I will never again purchase a Denon disc player of any kind.

Yup. I paid £700 for each of my players. That's around $1200 each. And they can't even navigate menus for more than 12 months without breaking down. I was hoping they would set me for life.

I love Denon receivers. Brilliant kit. But I will never again purchase a Denon disc player of any kind.

Ouch. I don't blame you for never purchasing a Denon disc player again.
Your problems might be the laser assembly. Hopefully you can find someone to open it up and replace it for you.

Just received my replacement 2930 unit. I noticed right away that the tray opened and closed faster than the defective unit I sent back. And, it does properly recognize and play every type of disc I threw at it. It's also running much quieter than the other unit. Must have been a defective laser assembly on that unit.

I guess it's a keeper IF it doesn't die within the 2 week return period.

Is the laser in the DVD-3930 the same as the laser in the DVD-2930, specifically the Sanyo SF-HD65? (Searching the thread, I could verify the number for the 2930 but I could not find a post where the number is verified for the 3930.)

Thanks.

Yeah, It sounds like a laser. Don't worry about it too much. Once it is replaced the player works like a dream. I just look for the symptoms and replace.

Make sure you have the latest firmware. CD and on video board. The video board needs to be done by Denon, but it is really worth while.

Ta

Dono:):)

Well I finally got that laser replaced today. It took 14 days to get here but well worth the wait.
Took a chance and drop it off at the local electronic shop. I was alittle nervous but I got it back within a couple of hours. They charge me 65 dollars to replace the laser.
Brought it home hook it up everything working fine except that I couldn't get the Multi SACD to play. After about 20 minutes reading both the 3930 and the 4310 manual. I figure out the 4310 Input had to be assign to D.Link and presto I finally got them to play! It's the same laser pickup as the 2930!:D

Is the laser in the DVD-3930 the same as the laser in the DVD-2930, specifically the Sanyo SF-HD65? (Searching the thread, I could verify the number for the 2930 but I could not find a post where the number is verified for the 3930.)

Thanks.

Yes, just replaced mine today with the 2930 laser. They both use the same Laser Pickup I order mine thru Ebay.:D
So far so Good, loads faster change tracks no problems, acts like it's brand new.:)

Yes, just replaced mine today with the 2930 laser. They both use the same Laser Pickup I order mine thru Ebay.:D
So far so Good, loads faster change tracks no problems, acts like it's brand new.:)

Mine just crashed again after watching Hostage. Bloody hell. I'm seriously going to have to get this replacement part into the player...

Have these replacement parts been modified in any way by Sanyo to prevent future failures?

Yes, just replaced mine today with the 2930 laser. They both use the same Laser Pickup I order mine thru Ebay.:D
So far so Good, loads faster change tracks no problems, acts like it's brand new.:)

McDon1... Thanks Much. Just for grins, I order one off of EBay from a place in Hong Kong for $7.99 with free shipping. Probably too good to be true...

McDon1... Thanks Much. Just for grins, I order one off of EBay from a place in Hong Kong for $7.99 with free shipping. Probably too good to be true...

That's an way excellent Price.:)
As long as it works thats all that matters!:D

Have these replacement parts been modified in any way by Sanyo to prevent future failures?

I doubt it. Apparently the parts haven't failed at all in other makes of machine, which suggests it isn't the part per se, but the way that Denon has integrated it. That means Sanyo have no real reason to "fix" it and any replacement part will probably fail again in about 6 months :-(

The question is, what percentage of machines are effected? 100%? Most of them? Certain product dates only?

The question is, what percentage of machines are effected? 100%? Most of them? Certain product dates only?

Good question.
Perhaps the percentage is not any higher than average for CE products, but if the people with failures make noise it can give the appearance that "all of them" are duds.
I know this from my days working in the service dept of a largish CE company (coincidentally it was Sanyo). Certain models would seem to be in the shop on a regular basis, but when you looked at the repairs vs numbers sold it usually was average (3% was considered average at that time). And though I don't know about this laser assembly, modifications were sometimes made during the course of a model life that weren't common knowledge.

I originally bought a 2930 which became very reluctant to play the SACD portion of hybrid discs within a month. The 3930 I upgraded to has been fine for 2.5 years, June 2006 build date.
I know these things run warm, could that be a factor if not given enough room to breathe?
Plus I play way more music than DVD and therefore have the video section shut off most of the time. Maybe that helps from a heat standpoint too.

The question is, what percentage of machines are effected? 100%? Most of them? Certain product dates only?

Well all I can say is that I bought two 2930 players, both UK models, about 6 months apart from 2 completely different Denon dealers.

Both developed mechanical problems.

I didn't have problems with SACD playback particularly - as far as I know (but I only have 4 SACD discs so I simply might not have noticed)

The question is, what percentage of machines are effected? 100%? Most of them? Certain product dates only?

It is well established that it is a design flaw with the 2930 and 3930. It just depends on usage. Mine has heavy usage and I have changed many lasers with no other issues. Others have had no complaints and then all of a sudden they do. Just look at the lasers as a consumable.

Ta

Dono:):)

It is well established that it is a design flaw with the 2930 and 3930. It just depends on usage. Mine has heavy usage and I have changed many lasers with no other issues. Others have had no complaints and then all of a sudden they do. Just look at the lasers as a consumable.

Perhaps. But a $1500 player brought to its knees by an $8 part? Pretty sad.

-Reid

Perhaps. But a $1500 player brought to its knees by an $8 part? Pretty sad.

-Reid

I agree,

However you could look at it another way. A $8 part lets you enjoy one of the best DVD/SACD/DVD Audio players made.:):)

I let you decide.:rolleyes:

Ta

Dono:):)

I agree,

However you could look at it another way. A $8 part lets you enjoy one of the best DVD/SACD/DVD Audio players made.:):)

I let you decide.:rolleyes:

Ta

Dono:):)

Well, for what I paid for my 2930 ($199), I can see it your way :) However, for what some people paid I can totally understand them being totally pissed off.

I'm just using it for audio (I have video, hdmi & even display turned off when listening). Hi-rez sounds excellent, but, even regular CDs sound impressive. Highs are silky smooth (not harsh) and music carries weight with nice detail. It must be that AL24+.

I read the 3930CI uses Advanced AL24. Supposedly improved time line and better sound stage. Geesh, I'd like to hear a 3930 now... :eek:

However, now there's AL32 (32bit algorithms feeding 32bit DAC). That sounds really sweet! I see it only being offered on their flagship $4,500 BR Universal player though... :(

Hopefully they put that AL32 into some lower priced units.

For now, I'm just going to enjoy this 2930... and probably buy a few replacement lasers while I still can.

FWIW, knock on wood my 3930CI is still going strong, and it was one of the first my dealer received.

I'm sure it will show issues sooner or later, but at this point I'm still happy and when it dies I'll just convert to using my BD player full time.

Well, for what I paid for my 2930 ($199), I can see it your way :) However, for what some people paid I can totally understand them being totally pissed off.

I paid $1100 for my 3930 a few years ago, and I bought it primarily for its video performance - and it absolutely blows everything else away in that regard.

So, I guess I'm not particularly pissed off - I'm on my second unit, the first one replaced under warranty - but I guess I'm disappointed. I would expect better reliability from a high $ piece of electronics. The fact that its still peerless on SD upconversion makes it all a little easier to swallow. (It does still outperform my LD BD390 on SD.) Overall, its still a great DVD player.

So I guess I need to buy one or two laser units, before my second one dies.

-Reid

I paid $1100 for my 3930 a few years ago, and I bought it primarily for its video performance - and it absolutely blows everything else away in that regard.

So, I guess I'm not particularly pissed off - I'm on my second unit, the first one replaced under warranty - but I guess I'm disappointed. I would expect better reliability from a high $ piece of electronics. The fact that its still peerless on SD upconversion makes it all a little easier to swallow. (It does still outperform my LD BD390 on SD.) Overall, its still a great DVD player.

So I guess I need to buy one or two laser units, before my second one dies.

-Reid

Do you know what the problem was with the unit you had replaced?

I plan on keeping this unit (once it passes the vendor 2 week return period) and buying some spare laser units (while they're still readily available). I don't think I can get this kind of audio sound anywhere else for the closeout price I paid.

I'm curious as to how much of an improvement the 3930CI is for audio (and video too). It uses the "advanced AL24" which has me curious. If the audio is clearly superior, I'd be interested.

What I'm really interested in is Denon's newest AL32 technology. I'm hoping they implement that in lower priced disc players.

My DVD 3930CI skipped a couple of times with an SACD disk recently, so I thought it couldn't hurt to order the replacement Sanyo SF-HD65 laser pick-up that I've seen referenced in this thread. I just wanted to double-check that this is the actual part used by Denon and that it is designed for both the 2930 and the 3930. Also, could someone repost the instructions for installing it, or do they come with the part? Thanks to any and all for your help.

[QUOTE=generalmail92126;17464635]Well, for what I paid for my 2930 ($199), I can see it your way :) However, for what some people paid I can totally understand them being totally pissed off.

I paid the equivelent of US$2160 for mine. Prices are high in New Zealand.
I am not pissed off.

I have said it before. I consider it a bit like a Ferrari/Lambo/Porshe. Works the best when they work. However they can break down.
Ask anyone using a Record player. They have to change carritages regularly.

Nothing touches the 3930 for picture/audio quality. You just have to replace the laser occasionaly.

Ta
Dono:):)

Nothing touches the 3930 for picture/audio quality. You just have to replace the laser occasionaly.

Ta
Dono:):)

I have a few OLD retail CDs that I believe are defective pressings (the play side looks fine under bright light inspection, no bronzing or rotting), yet, when played on my old CD/DVD players there are constant very audible clicks in the background. Also, using my Plextor DVDRom & EAC, they won't rip correctly either... constant errors. And if you force a rip anyways, the clicks are there. The worst offender is a Japan first pressing of a KISS album (unlistenable) and the seller even confirmed the copy he made before selling it to me was riddled in distortion/clicks.

So, I play these CDs on the Denon 2930 and ... they sound great! The KISS CD still has some minor background noise here and there, but, it's very much improved.

Just ordered 2 Sanyo laser assemblies to hang onto. So far it's all good.

I wasn't sure if AL24 Processing Plus on the 2930CI was upsampling to the Analog Outputs (or just expanding the bits to 24)... so I emailed Denon tech support. I received a response that said yes it was upsampling to 24bit/192khz to the Analog Outputs. Now I'm curious as to what the big difference is with Advanced AL24.

The difference looks like is all channels vs stereo:Advanced AL24 Processing

The acclaimed Advanced AL24 DSP processing improves the fidelity of high resolution stereo PCM sources such as CD and DVD (up to 192kHz sampling frequencies), by sophisticated DSP processing algorithms that improves low level detail and enhances fidelity by upsampling and adaptive filtering techniques. Advanced AL24 also provides increased dynamic range and spatial information, bringing out all the nuances with optimum clarity and natural fidelity.

AL24 Processing Plus

Denon has further developed its proprietary AL24 Processing, an analog waveform reproduction technology, to support the 192-kHz sampling frequency of DVD-Audio. This new technology, called AL24 Processing Plus, thoroughly suppresses quantization noise with D/A conversion of LPCM signals to reproduce the low-level signals with optimum clarity that brings out all the delicate nuances of the music. In high-end models, AL24 Processing Plus for all channels.

I have a question too...
My DVD-2930CI won't show anything on the screen when I do Play-Open/Close@power on followed by 3265"Menu". I was curious what firmware I have and if I should worry about a newer one.

Also, I did manage to lock it down in DEMO MODE but luckly, the Play-FFSkip@power on that I found on this thread worked. Thanks!

Finally got my laser part replaced. Yay! Working fine so far - fingers crossed!

Finally got my laser part replaced. Yay! Working fine so far - fingers crossed!

It will stay fine for 1-2 years depending on use. Now Blu-ray is here I don't use the 3930 so much and have found that the laser is obviously lasting longer:)

Ta

Dono

Anybody knows where I can get the schematics/service manual for the DVD-2390CI?

I ordered and received the Sanyo laser part. Could anyone else who's also done so point me to directions on how to install it? Thanks.

Anybody knows where I can get the schematics/service manual for the DVD-2390CI?

http://www.getmanual.com/index.php?nav=delivery

$10 to download the service manual. It includes a method to test the lasers via the front panel buttons! I was able to do the test even though the description in the manual is somewhat lacking.

http://www.getmanual.com/index.php?nav=delivery

$10 to download the service manual. It includes a method to test the lasers via the front panel buttons! I was able to do the test even though the description in the manual is somewhat lacking.
As a favor to your fellow owners of the this player and the other good readers of this thread, could you tell us about that method to test the lasers via the front panel buttons?

$10 to download the service manual.
thanks, I did bought it already from there (Google).

As a favor to your fellow owners of the this player and the other good readers of this thread, could you tell us about that method to test the lasers via the front panel buttons?

You'd be better off to spend the $10. It is not straight forward and I don't want to risk someone bricking their unit.

thanks, I did bought it already from there (Google).

Did you try testing your laser?
I tested mine and they were just about right where they should be. This is in spite of the fact that I am starting to have trouble playing some enhanced CDs. :confused:

No, I didn't, mine it is in the "aging mode", I have it for a week only. Plays everything, even rented scratched ones better than my other players.
I am tempted to replace the OpAmps analog outputs. The ones on the stereo-only one are better.
I have a bunch of LM4562... but warranty wise I do not know if it is smart.

No, I didn't, mine it is in the "aging mode", I have it for a week only. Plays everything, even rented scratched ones better than my other players.
I am tempted to replace the OpAmps analog outputs. The ones on the stereo-only one are better.
I have a bunch of LM4562... but warranty wise I do not know if it is smart.

Wow, sounds interesting but beyond my abilities. I think any modifications you make directly to the unit may void the warranty.

I am sure they will void warranty. I just don't know if it does worth it or should I just wait one year :)

I am sure they will void warranty. I just don't know if it does worth it or should I just wait one year :)

I was surprised about the "aging mode." What do you make of it? Is it necessary to age the curcuitry?
Why not get the 3930 if you want better DACs?

The brand new capacitors need some aging to perform at the best. The function included just speeds up the process, nothing more.
Why I didn't get a 3930? You mean... beside the price and not wanting to sleep in the doghouse? :D

It will stay fine for 1-2 years depending on use. Now Blu-ray is here I don't use the 3930 so much and have found that the laser is obviously lasting longer:)
Ta
Dono

I hope so - the last one (fitted with the machine at purchase) only lasted 6 months.

I still use my DVD player quite a lot, mostly for telly stuff. It still upscales better than my Panny BD-55 and there's no layer change. My two sole reasons to keep it in service!

I just pulled the trigger today on the 2930 from Vann's. I love my Pioneer BDP-51 just fine for BD, but the layer change and inability to convert PAL-NTSC is getting on my nerves. I appreciate everyone's input in this thread as you have convinced me to get my first Denon product.

I have discovered a problem with my new DVD-2930CI. On one DVD-A (Foreigner 4), the player will start playing and after 14 seconds, the sound output stops. But the counter on the display is still going. If I press "stop" and then "play" again I have 14 seconds of play (other 14 seconds). It doesn't matter if I select the stereo or surround from the DVD menu.
Other discs are playing fine. I am connected via analog 5.1 outputs.

My firmware is BE8283-A. What's the latest firmware and where I can get it? Maybe it will solve this issue...

Is the laser pick up Sanyo SF-HD65?

I have discovered a problem with my new DVD-2930CI. On one DVD-A (Foreigner 4), the player will start playing and after 14 seconds, the sound output stops. But the counter on the display is still going. If I press "stop" and then "play" again I have 14 seconds of play (other 14 seconds). It doesn't matter if I select the stereo or surround from the DVD menu.
Other discs are playing fine. I am connected via analog 5.1 outputs.

My firmware is BE8283-A. What's the latest firmware and where I can get it? Maybe it will solve this issue...

Is the laser pick up Sanyo SF-HD65?

The latest firmware is 8283-E. It could explain the problems you are having. Here is a link to download the file:
http://rapidshare.com/files/309487000/GEN8283-E_C09_DVD2930CI_2930.zip.html

Maphiker

Expand the zip-file (inclusive folder) and burn the complete folder on CD-R. Create CD-R (ISO 9660, please use lowest possible speed and finalize the disc). The CD-R should have a file folder named "DVD_2930" with the ROM file inside it.

See enclosed file with Instructions on how to update the 2930:

Thank you! I will try it.

How fast is your tray closing/opening? Mine is very slow compared with other players. Is that normal?

LE: Updated the player, still does the same. My other player Toshiba SD-6980 plays that DVD-A with no problems. :(

Thank you! I will try it.

How fast is your tray closing/opening? Mine is very slow compared with other players. Is that normal?

LE: Updated the player, still does the same. My other player Toshiba SD-6980 plays that DVD-A with no problems. :(

Are you sure that the Foreigner disc is authentic and not a copy? What you decribe sounds like what happens when you try to play a copy of a "copy protected" disc.
BTW, is the Toshiba really playing the DVDA track or the DTS/DD track? You can make the 2930 play the DTS (DD) track by going into the "Other Setup" menu and selecting PLAYER MODE = VIDEO.
Another explanation would be if the Toshiba lacks the copy protection feature.

It is real. Toshiba is same (or more) "protected" than Denon, I couldn't even find how to make it region free...
I wonder if the region-free trick did that - I will try to reset the 2930 player to factory default.

Hello all,

Just like many of them, my second hand 3930 is having lots of reading problems and I'm about to replace the laser lens. But dismantling the whole thing is not that easy.

Can someone confirm that the ribbon cable that is attached to the laser lens can be removed just by pulling it ? Isn't it soldered ?
Also, I'm hesitating to buy a new Sanyo SF-HD 65 since the one installed in my player (see attached photo) doesn't look exactly the same as this one I found in an add (look at the bottom right end).

http://i61.servimg.com/u/f61/09/01/25/62/5ad0_111.jpg

Any help will be appreciated. Thank you