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?

OK for those of you with nerves of steel.... I don't recommend doing this but enclosed is the method to check the laser current. It is suggested to replace the traverse mechanism (laser) if the present value exceeds the initial value by 150%.

My instructions are to the best of my understanding. I don't recommend playing around in the TEST MODE as you may inadvertently change something you shouldn't.

I have had my 3930 for over a year now and have only used it for upscaling dvd's. There are several concerts being released in the UK on DVD that I would love to own, which will probably not be released here (Michael Ball in concert). Can anyone tell me if this player will play PAL discs to my Epson 1080 projector(which plays PAL) and will it play a region 2 coded disc? I am assuming it will play the PAL disc because I've heard it does but unsure of the region 2 problem. Thanks.

I have had my 3930 for over a year now and have only used it for upscaling dvd's. There are several concerts being released in the UK on DVD that I would love to own, which will probably not be released here (Michael Ball in concert). Can anyone tell me if this player will play PAL discs to my Epson 1080 projector(which plays PAL) and will it play a region 2 coded disc? I am assuming it will play the PAL disc because I've heard it does but unsure of the region 2 problem. Thanks.

You will need to apply the region free hack. Instructions are in this thread. Do a search.

You will need to apply the region free hack. Instructions are in this thread. Do a search.

Thanks Maphiker...I could only find these instructions and they are for the 2930, are they the same for the 3930?

1. Remove any disc currently in the unit.
2. With the unit on (green light, not red), power off using the front panel On/Off button (not standby).
3. Press and hold Stop and Still/Pause buttons on the front panel (not remote).
4. Keep the above buttons held and Power-up the player using the On/Off button, hold the above buttons until the players name disappears from the front panel.
5. Wait until the unit finishes LOADING and the front panel of the player shows 0:00:00.
6. On the remote handset, press in sequence; 7 3 1 9 4 6 2 8
7. The unit should enter standby mode. On the front panel of the player, press the Standby button to turn the unit back on.
8. To confirm the update, press Stop and Skip Forward (>>I) simultaneously on the front panel . The front panel will briefly display “Region_A1”.

Thanks Maphiker...I could only find these instructions and they are for the 2930, are they the same for the 3930?

Yes.

I just have bought a spare SF-HD65 but I didn't receive it yet. The connector in the pic looks like is the type that is just pushed in there, no locks on the sides. I will know more when I get mine.

Thank you for your help, I too have ordered one and will let you know about the results.

Alain

OK for those of you with nerves of steel.... I don't recommend doing this but enclosed is the method to check the laser current. It is suggested to replace the traverse mechanism (laser) if the present value exceeds the initial value by 150%.

My instructions are to the best of my understanding. I don't recommend playing around in the TEST MODE as you may inadvertently change something you shouldn't.

Ok, so after trying to play some SACD's today and only getting the 2-ch mixes to play instead of the Multi-Ch I started scouring this thread and believe that I need to replace the Laser assembly. I performed T22 on my 2930 and came up with a reading of 3266:0076 which I am reading as the unit had 32.66 milliamps initially and now has 0.76 milliamps to the laser head. If so, this would explain a lot of the players behavoir, not reading the M CH on SACD and locking up the unit in the middle of DVD movies.

Post warranty, I should be able to replace on my own, just a question about whether the $10-15 parts are the same Sanyo head unit like the Traverse unit from Partstore.com that runs $70?

Post warranty, I should be able to replace on my own, just a question about whether the $10-15 parts are the same Sanyo head unit like the Traverse unit from Partstore.com that runs $70?

Several people have reported here that the Sanyo laser head replacement works. IMHO, for $10 you won't lose much by first replacing the laser.

Ok, so after trying to play some SACD's today and only getting the 2-ch mixes to play instead of the Multi-Ch I started scouring this thread and believe that I need to replace the Laser assembly. I performed T22 on my 2930 and came up with a reading of 3266:0076 which I am reading as the unit had 32.66 milliamps initially and now has 0.76 milliamps to the laser head. If so, this would explain a lot of the players behavoir, not reading the M CH on SACD and locking up the unit in the middle of DVD movies.



Do me a favor? Do the T22 without inserting a disc, just close the tray. I'm not sure the disc is necessary. I got some very low milliamps with the disc but the milliamps increased slowly on a second try. Without the disk, I got higher numbers.
Thanks.

Do me a favor? Do the T22 without inserting a disc, just close the tray. I'm not sure the disc is necessary. I got some very low milliamps with the disc but the milliamps increased slowly on a second try. Without the disk, I got higher numbers.
Thanks.

Well that is really different without a disc in the machine. 3266:3453 (no disc). Reading in previous post was while Armagedon CC was at the menu screen. Actually withouth a disc in the drive the 2nd (current) amperage keeps increasing, now up to 3641 as i continue to type on the laptop. Only a 6 -10% increase over the original.

That's what I have on my new 2930 - Initial 3266, nodisc settles at 3898. It reads ok.
I have ordered just the Sanyo laser head to have it around - was 10$ on eBay.

Well that is really different without a disc in the machine. 3266:3453 (no disc). Reading in previous post was while Armagedon CC was at the menu screen. Actually withouth a disc in the drive the 2nd (current) amperage keeps increasing, now up to 3641 as i continue to type on the laptop. Only a 6 -10% increase over the original.

Thanks. I am guessing that the proper way to test the laser is without the disk. The English translation of the Japanese service manual is quite poor. I have changed the instructions enclosed in my post above. Also, I don't know if I made it clear. There are two laser tests, one for the CD laser and one for the DVD laser. Have you tried both?

The service manual also states that the function of the laser should be checked by an extensive set of tests involving connecting an oscilloscope to the circuit boards and observing the "high frequency wave forms." Thus I imagine that only checking the laser current may not be sufficient to show proper performance. But this is just a guess.

BTW, some on this forum have improved performance by cleaning the laser. I assume you have tried this.

Happy Thanksgiving to all! :)

Dear Forum Users,

I've read the WHOLE thread, I swear... I read the WHOLE thread...


But still I have som questions about the 2930ci.. Maybe you guys can help me...

1- Is the audio quality better in the stereo out or is it the same in 5.1 out?

2- The manual says AL24 is available for all connectors (pg 46 of manual), however I've read people saying it is only in the stereo out, is it?

Thank you!

1. "AL24 Processing Plus" (from DVD-2930) is available on all the outputs and it is different from AL24. But only for 16 bit signals, excepting the HDCD format. That means for CD, DTS-CD, DVD-Video DolbyDigital and DTS. It interpolates the 16bit/44.1-48kHz signal to a 24bit/192kHz one with a proprietary(?) method using an "adaptive digital filter".
2. The stereo analog only output has slightly better specs OpAmps that the multichannel one. NJM 2068MD on stereo versus BA15218F on multi for the US/EU version. The japan version has different stereo out: BA15218 for the IV stages followed by OP275 in the filter.

hmmm


I dont get it... so basically the stereo OUT should produce better sound?

Well, yes, theoretically. If you can tell the difference (real one not a placebo), let us know :)

Dear SoNic67,

thank you for you info on the Op-Amps, actually I even had the chance to learn some aspect about op-amps, google is ineed a good friend...

Well...


After reading from google I tried a little A-B test, I have used the following CDs and SACDs:

- CD Maastricht Salon Orchestra - Serenata - Gold CD - Philips Record
- CD Pavarotti Forever - Decca
- SACD Rodrigo Concierto de Aranjuez & The Romeros - Mercury
- SACD Emi Fujita - Camomile Best Audio
- SACD Miles Davis - Kind of Blue - Japanese Import...

Before someone asks, my system is:

- HK 254 (used as processor);
- Rotel RB-1080 Amp;
- Rotel RB-993 Amp;
- Denon 2930ci;
- Denon 3800bdci;
- B&W 705
- B&W HTM7;
- B&W LM-1;
- Velodyne DLS-4000r.

I started with Emi Fujita's album, for those who never listened to her songs listen here (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1HM45vTrZVA).

Most of her music is pretty low in bass, so basically I could not tell too much difference from the 5.1 outs and the stereo out.

However since it is a SACD (multi-ch SACD), the mixing is pretty nice, so yes I favoured the 5.1 best, the music gets a bit of depth, which is some what nice.

In the stereo form, even tho we loose the 5.1 ability, the sound is good, but I noticed something WAS different, but I at that point I didnt know what was different...

Then I tried the Pavarotti CD, and thats when I REALLY started hearing the differences...

Actually not only the Pavarotti CD, but all music that requires a bit more "bass" ....

The HK254, do not apply the crossover when using the 6/8 in, and in stereo in, even when we use the tone off option, which the manual says the sound would go without any modification to the volume control, the sound WAS better (to my ears) thru stereo out...

Maybe it is 254 fault for not applying the crossover to 6/8 channel in, or maybe it is me who just dont know how to properly set-up things... However, I tried all the possible configurations... Turning on and off the 50khz-100khz in the 2930ci source direct, I tried speaker configuration in both denon and hk, I tried the +10 subwoofer option in the 2930ci, but no avail.. THE BASS IS LACKING.. A LOT...

So for me it is impossible to say that I liked the 5.1 more, I decided to leave the 2930 connected using the stereo outs...

I will miss the 5.1 mixes, but.. the stereo sound is just better...

I even tried with movies, the bass and subwoofer gets a lot better when NOT using the 6/8, I discovered that it is either the 2930 that sends low subwoofer signal or it is the 254 that lowers the subwoofer when using 6/8 channel!

So in the end, for movies I will use HDMI sound (bitstream) and for music, the stereo out.

Hope I did not sound too.. hmmm... un-experienced (well I am!!)... You know sometimes I feel dumb and ashamed posting in a forum where people have a VAST knowledge of audio.

Did you try to compare the L/R outs with the LF and LR outs from the 5.1 via the Rotel amp (listening to a stereo program obviously)?

I tend to blaim the HK for that - its the old problem with the LFE channel 10dB higher than the rest of the channels and HK doesn't have that compesation on the analog outs.
Also, if you select 50kHz or 100kHz Direct filter, the bass management inside 2930 is canceled.

http://www.ultimateavmag.com/howto/805bass/index1.html
Thus, most controllers do not convert their multichannel analog inputs to digital, or run them through bass management. This task is left to the disc player, most of which don't have enough DSP horsepower to provide filters as advanced as those in controllers. In fact, some players do not even provide the option of setting all the main speakers to Small-the front speakers are often restricted to Large. Furthermore, the digital-to-analog (D/A) converters on disc players' subwoofer outputs often do not have enough headroom to output bass at sufficiently high levels. The level of the subwoofer output is usually reduced by either 10dB (for a player without bass management) or 15dB (for a player with bass management), with the expectation that the signal will be boosted by the controller. This is all well and good except that many controllers are not set up to apply that boost to their analog subwoofer inputs!
The current solution to both of these problems is to set all the outputs of a disc player to Large and insert an external bass-management device between the player and the controller. (Bass-management devices are available from Outlaw Audio and Miller & Kreisel, among others.) It's not a very appetizing thought, but it's a heck of a lot better than lacking highpass filters for the front speakers or having bass that's 15dB too low!
Fortunately, there is another solution on the horizon. Universal digital interfaces, like FireWire, that can carry PPCM and DSD are appearing on the latest crop of disc players and AV controllers. If the external bass-management box is a turn-off, reach for these new players and controllers, which bass management for PPCM and DSD works just like it does for other digital-audio formats.

I own for now a HK AVR 220 and I will get soon a Denon 3805 soon (paid for on eBay, fingers crossed), hoping to have a better connection than analog.
You have better amps on stereo and your speakers are better than mine so... I appreciate your findings. I was tempted to give out to the temptation to replace all OpAmps on the 5.1 path (loosing the warranty) but I will try the DenonLink first (when I get the 3805).

Sorry to butt in. I just have to say, "the Denon Link" is awsome!" (IMHO)

New firmware for DVD-2390CI. Burn on a CD (with the folder named as it is), place on tray and wait to complete. I got it from Denon USA, use it on your risc. It worked on mine.
ver. BE 8283-F (http://rapidshare.com/files/313502633/GEN8283-F_A15_DVD_2930.zip)

New firmware for DVD-2390CI. Burn on a CD (with the folder named as it is), place on tray and wait to complete. I got it from Denon USA, use it on your risc. It worked on mine.
ver. BE 8283-F (http://rapidshare.com/files/313502633/GEN8283-F_A15_DVD_2930.zip)

Thanks for the upload.

Mike T

New firmware for DVD-2390CI. Burn on a CD (with the folder named as it is), place on tray and wait to complete. I got it from Denon USA, use it on your risc. It worked on mine.
ver. BE 8283-F (http://rapidshare.com/files/313502633/GEN8283-F_A15_DVD_2930.zip)

any changelog available?

Will this one work with EU models? I think all players comes with universal firmware (but region locked), but better safe than sorry :)
Latest on the EU site is GEN8283-E_C09_DVD2930CI_2930

Well, I have unlocked mine and the last number in that long number is the region (8 means region free, other numbers are other regions) so I am 99.99% sure they have the same firmware. They didn't give me a changelog thou... sorry.
I have installed previously the "E" firmware from EU on my US player and worked fine.
If you feel unsure, contact the Denon rep. in your area. The US rep. are very quick and knowledgeable.

Did you try to compare the L/R outs with the LF and LR outs from the 5.1 via the Rotel amp (listening to a stereo program obviously)?

I tend to blaim the HK for that - its the old problem with the LFE channel 10dB higher than the rest of the channels and HK doesn't have that compesation on the analog outs.
Also, if you select 50kHz or 100kHz Direct filter, the bass management inside 2930 is canceled.



Well I tried both, the Denon does apply the proper cross-over point cut. So using the stereo analog, the HK applies the proper crossover. Using LF/LR gives no bass at all since the denon filters it.

And yes... I tried connecting the subwoofer directly to the Denon, and it works beautifully!!

I knew about the 50khz/100khz direct filter, but activating that or not, does nt give me the proper subwoofer level.

Funny is that the denon DOES have the +10db increase, however it has little effect on the HK.

:)

Well, HK applies the bass management only for the stereo inputs (those are converterd to PCM and send to the DSP) and for the digital inputs (SPDIF, they are fed to the DSP too). The 5.1 analog inputs are connected straight to the final stages, no DSP, no correction (not even the front pannel ones) is involved there.

If you set in Denon the speakers for the FR/FL to "LARGE", it shouldn't filter/crossover the bass. To set that up, you should not be in 50kZ or 100kHz modes. Also, leave the HDMI audio on "Stereo" before anything - for some reason, outputing 5.1 HDMI is not possible simultaneous with 5.1 analog.

Well, HK applies the bass management only for the stereo inputs (those are converterd to PCM and send to the DSP) and for the digital inputs (SPDIF, they are fed to the DSP too). The 5.1 analog inputs are connected straight to the final stages, no DSP, no correction (not even the front pannel ones) is involved there.

If you set in Denon the speakers for the FR/FL to "LARGE", it shouldn't filter/crossover the bass. To set that up, you should not be in 50kZ or 100kHz modes. Also, leave the HDMI audio on "Stereo" before anything - for some reason, outputing 5.1 HDMI is not possible simultaneous with 5.1 analog.

hi!

I did all that!!! And the HK manual says that the stereo inputs are unchanged if you use the Tone Off, which is what I do!

Well Maybe its totally HK fault!

I will try it again soon!

Ok, here i have the Denon DVD-3930 Service Manual,
did get it from a other user, thanks fot that.

It's for all regio's and country's.

http://rapidshare.com/files/314072325/DVD-3930_3930CI_Service_Manual.rar

unrar the file and open the manual with something like acrobat reader.

Enjoy!, have a nice day. :)

Regards
Dutchman01

Thank you! I see now the difference in the analog output (compared to 2390) - better DAC: PCM1796 VS PCM1791 with better output OpAmp stage (but still those BA15218, what's up with those?).
And this (http://rapidshare.com/files/314114374/DVD-2930CI.zip) is the Denon DVD-2930CI manual (paid 10$ for it).
Enjoy!

And here for the tech people the datasheet of the Sanyo SF-HD65 :)



http://rapidshare.com/files/314133726/SANYO_SF-HD65_DATASHEET.pdf

Regards
Dutchman01

New firmware for DVD-2390CI. Burn on a CD (with the folder named as it is), place on tray and wait to complete. I got it from Denon USA, use it on your risc. It worked on mine.
ver. BE 8283-F (http://rapidshare.com/files/313502633/GEN8283-F_A15_DVD_2930.zip)

Thanks for the heads up on the firmware.

osd

New firmware for DVD-2390CI. Burn on a CD (with the folder named as it is), place on tray and wait to complete. I got it from Denon USA, use it on your risc. It worked on mine.
ver. BE 8283-F (http://rapidshare.com/files/313502633/GEN8283-F_A15_DVD_2930.zip)

Anyone know if this will work for the 3930 also?

Ta

Dono

Anyone know if this will work for the 3930 also?

Ta

Dono

In past versions, each player had it's own fw. So, I don't think this will work for the 3930.

Mike T

New firmware for DVD-2390CI. Burn on a CD (with the folder named as it is), place on tray and wait to complete. I got it from Denon USA, use it on your risc. It worked on mine.
ver. BE 8283-F (http://rapidshare.com/files/313502633/GEN8283-F_A15_DVD_2930.zip)

Thank you. I burned it to an old CD-RW and it worked on my 2930CI.
Display says something like "Reading Data..."
then "Erase"
then "Writing"
then "Completed"

I then powered off and on.

Took a minute or two...

Thank you. I burned it to an old CD-RW and it worked on my 2930CI.

You are welcome.
Anyone know if this will work for the 3930 also?
Dono
They have slighty different circuits on the digital output side so I think it won't work. Maybe you can ask Denon for a new 3930 one, like I did :)

Anyone know if this will work for the 3930 also?

Ta

Dono

The firmware for the 3930 is different. Don't even attempt to use the 2930 firmware in your player. Your 3930 may cease to function and may require service from Denon. :eek:

The firmware for the 3930 is different. Don't even attempt to use the 2930 firmware in your player. Your 3930 may cease to function and may require service from Denon. :eek:

Correct, Don't even think about it to try to flash a wrong version on your player.

DVD-3930 needs 3930 firmware
DVD-2930 needs 2930 firmware

And that's the last word written about it.

Dutchman01

One thing I noticed (that isn't a big deal to me) is after the firmware upgrade I can't switch display modes while a CD is playing via remote. I used to be able to do that. No biggie though.

Nice sounding player... makes digital music more enjoyable to listen to. I thought about picking up a 2nd unit when Vann's had them priced at $169 recently... but, decided to pass.

I'd love to check out a DCD 1650SE or DCD 2010AE (CD /SACD player), but, those are only sold in Japan and Europe.. sigh.

One thing I noticed (that isn't a big deal to me) is after the firmware upgrade I can't switch display modes while a CD is playing via remote.
I can still switch from the remote the resolutions while playing a CD. That's what you ment?

I can still switch from the remote the resolutions while playing a CD. That's what you ment?

From the remote you can toggle between display "normal", "mode1", "mode2", "all off" while a CD is playing (you program mode1 & mode2 to if you want video circuit shut off, HDMI & the fluorescent display).

Now I have to pause/or stop the disc to switch these modes, but, the player resumes where I paused so no biggie. Maybe it's a feature that shouldn't have been there so they 'fixed' it.

Great sounding player. I think it was a steal for the $169 - $199 Vann's online was selling it for. Looks like they're out of stock now.

From the remote you can toggle between display "normal", "mode1", "mode2", "all off" while a CD is playing (you program mode1 & mode2 to if you want video circuit shut off, HDMI & the fluorescent display).

Now I have to pause/or stop the disc to switch these modes, but, the player resumes where I paused so no biggie. Maybe it's a feature that shouldn't have been there so they 'fixed' it.

The feature you are refering to was changed in the 8283-E firmware. Apparently, it caused problems when playing specfic discs. If you prefer, you can reinstall the older fiirmware.
Which brings to mind.... Does anyone have the changelog for the recent firmware? It would be nice to know what was changed.

I would appreciate your comments to my post regarding the problem I am having with a brand new 2930CI that I picked up for $165

Link: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1203223


edited...

I wonder if a firmware update will help resolve this problem and make the RS-232 port respond

How do I check the current firmware on the 2930CI? I searched through all thesetup screens OSD but couldnt find it

I see a link posted above on the firmware itself, are there any steps on how to do this? I read in one of the older posts that there are differences between how we flash the firmware between the 2930 and 2930CI units and I would like to use the correct method.

I am looking at this beautiful player (albeit Made in China) , currently resting on the floor and hate to part with it for the other flimsy alternatives.. I love the PQ and the audio and it is definitely an upgrade from my 1940CI. I noticed it pairs better with my Denon 4806CI and NHT VT1.2, NHT VS2A, NHT SW10, Mirage Omnisat surround with Universal Control MSC-400, MX-5000, MX-6000 setup

You are lucky... I have paid $199 and I was thinking I am lucky :)
This is what Denon rep told me to do: We would like to check the current firmware version you have in the player. To do that you will need to do the following. With the player powered down and with no disc in it you will hold down the Play and Open/Close buttons simultaneously. As you hold in those 2 button do not let go and press the Power button. Then using the remote press 3-2-6-5 and then Menu. Then continue to press menu until you come full circle and send me what is displayed.

You are lucky... I have paid $199 and I was thinking I am lucky :)
This is what Denon rep told me to do:

Thanks, I did that and the display reads BE 8283-A

Thanks, I did that and the display reads BE 8283-A

Hi rman,

I read your other post regarding the RS-232 issue and it sounds like you have a defective unit. Not so much based on the fact that it won't respond on the RS-232 port but the fact that it is so sluggish with the original remote and faceplate buttons.

I just purchased my 2930 a few months ago, it had a firmware older than yours and it had no issues responding to the remote and/or faceplate buttons. Matter of fact, response is very quick, so I don't think a firmware update will fix it. Aside from trying to do some sort of system reset on your 2930( I see you tried pulling the power cord but it was only temporary), I would call Denon to see if they have a solution, otherwise, it should probably be returned or sent to Denon for service. Good luck!

Mike T

To completly initialize the player, from stop condition, press in the same time the 2 buttons "PLAY" and "SKIP FFD" until "INITIALIZE" apears on the display. All user settings will be lost.

LE:
I think this is interesting. Thanks to michidragon for his research:
For anyone who may be reading, I found this in my research:
Laser Pickup for Denon units:
Denon DVD-2900: Hitachi HOP-1000 or Hitachi HOP-1120 ~($40)
Denon DVD-2910: Hitachi HOP-1200R (~$25) or Hitachi HOP-1200S (~$17) or Hitachi HOP-1200W (~$15)
Denon DVD-3910: Hitachi HOP-1200R (~$25) or Hitachi HOP-1200S (~$17) or Hitachi HOP-1200W (~$15)
Denon DVD-2930: Sanyo SF-HD65 (~$8)
Denon DVD-3930: Sanyo SF-HD65 (~$8)

I called Denon about the dead RS232 port on my 2930ci and they referred me to a local repair shop. I called them and the guy appeared clueless about what needs to be done to fix the port and also said it was his first time running into an issue like this.

Does anyone know what part needs to be replaced to fix the RS232 port? How complex is this repair?

Attached are 2 parts that are related to the comm port. First one it is on the power board, then a connector goes to the main board (and another to video board, but that is working). Signals that are interesting for you are Sel, TxD and RxD.
Check first the connector between boards to be inserted properly. Tha part that is missing from the Tx, Rx on the main board goes straight to the main uP, so that's nothing to do there.
After that I would check the parts that are on the power board.

Attached are 2 parts that are related to the comm port. First one it is on the power board, then a connector goes to the main board (and another to video board, but that is working). Signals that are interesting for you are Sel, TxD and RxD.
Check first the connector between boards to be inserted properly. Tha part that is missing from the Tx, Rx on the main board goes straight to the main uP, so that's nothing to do there.
After that I would check the parts that are on the power board.

wow, thanks for that information..I dont know how to use it though but still, I appreciate your help.

On another note:
I have about had it with the 2930CI. Today, i placed a DVD into the unit and tried to play, it would stutter and skip and do all kinds of nonsense. I then tried it on the 1940CI which played it. While I agree the quality of build on the 2930CI appears solid, I am dismayed at the quality of the unit itself which has been the worst on any electronic product that I have purchased in my life. How can a brand new unit have these problems? It is going right back to Denon and I know that because Vanns has stopped pushing these units through its clearance section.. Because they are total crap.

I guess I am now in the market for a decent Bluray player which can do upscaling on SD. I dont want to spend $600 for that 3800BDCI knowing that in a year, it will be sold for $200. Any suggestions on a decent bluray player in the $100 to $180 range? Returning the 2930CI will free up about $170 of my cash which I can use for the bluray player. I dont need RS-232 although it would be a nice to have.

The fact that you have a defective unit doesn't make it "total crap". There are thousands sold in years of manufacture, if it was such a bad product it woldn't last that much on market. Return it and done deal.
PS: It has some weaknesess, maybe. But what you describe is not a normal occurance. And on all the other brands you will see unlucky people.

rman66, I understand your frustration but as SoNic67 said, it's not total crap. You just were one of the unlucky ones to get a defective unit. Unfortunately, with every CE mfgr, someone will draw a dud. Too bad you had to draw the 2930 dud.

If you're looking for a BD player in the range you mentioned, the one that should fill the bill is the JVC XV-BP1. It will give you excellent BD PQ and it is known to be quite good with SD upconversion. See the link below for the AVS JVC owner's thread and while you're at it, check the pricing deals link in the BD forum, as there have been some sweet deals on this player.
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1131998

Mike T

The first unit Vann's sent me was a dud.. most likely a misaligned laser assy.
I opted for an exchange (at their cost) instead of refund since it did play CDs and I liked what I heard. The second unit sent was fine. Also, I purchased 2 Sanyo replacement Laser assemblies from MCM (~$12 each) just to keep on hand.

And, within 2 weeks, Vann's dropped the price to $179. I inquired about a price guarantee and they refunded me $20. I have a positive impression of Vann's service.

For everything this unit plays (including HDCD) and the very nice sound quality (and I hear the picture is pretty good also), I think $179 was an excellent price. I noticed they lowered the price to $169 before going out of stock.

There was a Yamaha Universal player being blown out at $35 shipped on the internet. I think it upsampled CDs to 24bit/192khz and also did HDCD. I haven't heard it, but, I'd be surprised if it bettered the Denon in sound quality.

rman66, I understand your frustration but as SoNic67 said, it's not total crap. You just were one of the unlucky ones to get a defective unit. Unfortunately, with every CE mfgr, someone will draw a dud. Too bad you had to draw the 2930 dud.

If you're looking for a BD player in the range you mentioned, the one that should fill the bill is the JVC XV-BP1. It will give you excellent BD PQ and it is known to be quite good with SD upconversion. See the link below for the AVS JVC owner's thread and while you're at it, check the pricing deals link in the BD forum, as there have been some sweet deals on this player.
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1131998

Mike T

Mike
thanks for your note. I considered buying the JVC but decided against it and instead bought a Sony BDPS560 for $160 (open box at J&R with a $20 off coupon). It had the ethernet port, wifi connectivity and also a better UI. I prefered these to slightly faster but no frills JVC. I know I am taking a bit of a risk here, buying an open box item so keeping my fingers crossed. The 2930CI will be returned.

The fact that you have a defective unit doesn't make it "total crap". There are thousands sold in years of manufacture, if it was such a bad product it woldn't last that much on market. Return it and done deal.
PS: It has some weaknesess, maybe. But what you describe is not a normal occurance. And on all the other brands you will see unlucky people.

The 2930CI is being sold as a "high end" "audio phile" DVD player. It is clear that Denon never bothered to test if the RS-232 port was working. It is this aspect of the Denon operational setup that I find unacceptable. I opened the Denon unit to see if there are any loose connectors and I couldnt find any, I also took some pictures just for the heck of it and will post them here later. I say the 2930 is crap because, although they may be using superior design and superior components and circuitry, they dont have the quality check process to support it. This is not taking into account the poor and shoddy selection or design or process around the laser unit which is causing so much angst among all of you. The 2930CI therefore remains a crappy unit in my books. I like Denon and I love my 4806CI.. just not the 2930CI.

I'll be pleased if someone can help me solve a big trouble with my Denon DVD 3930.

I've bought it 2 and half years ago 27.04.2007.

My connections to/from 3930 are :
Denon DVD 3930 <-> Denon AVR 4306 ... audio cables, 5+1 channels audio cables, digital (optical) cable
Denon DVD 3930 <-> Loewe Individual 46" ... HDMI cable

It worked quite fine until Jan 2009.
I own 300 copy protected cds between mine (they were bought between 2003-2006 when majors started to use this useless method) ... many of them can't be played by my 3930.
Forums suggested to upgrade Denon firmware.
I did.
(update data are :
BE 8284-8
MD 111
DSP 8250
IP 060802
).
Update went right.
Suddenly my Denon started to freeze 3-5 seconds in a random way when I play my audio cds.
Some forums suggests to upgrade Realta firmware too in a Denon authorized center.
I took my 3930 in it.
Engineer told me that my problem is caused by optical lens and in 1 month and half gave my Denon back to me after substituting optical parts.
Result : it freezes again but now without end, 3930 had to be switched off in order to play again till another freeze.
I'm angry. :mad:
I took my 3930 back again to Denon authorized center : engineer told me he didn't noticed the problem and again substitutes optical parts.
After 2 weeks he phoned me it was ok.
The day I phoned to him in order to take my 3930 back home he said this time he noticed my problem and he would analized it to solve it.
After 2 weeks he phoned me it is ok.
I took it home again : this time he substituted mechanical tray and upgraded firmware.
(I verified data :
BE 8284-A
MD C09
DSP 8250
IP 060802
).
Result : it freezes again and now when I switch on my Loewe TV 3930 stop working for 5 seconds and the same if I switch my Loewe TV off.
I'm very very very angry. :mad: :mad: :mad:


Is there someone who is able to solve this sfinx question ?


(Now my Sony RDR-HDX 1090 plays my audio cds and dvds waiting for Denon DVD 3930 to resurge)




status update ... the only way to listen to audio cd is to unplug HDMI cable :eek:




new status update : from September to yesterday Italian Denon authorised center took care of my Denon DVD 3930.
They substitute some other parts that I am not informed to.
They substitute an integrated circuit in order to upgrade video firmware too.
(I verified data :
BE 8284-A
MD C09
DSP 8250
IP 070518
)
My problem is still here : my Denon starts to freeze 3-5 seconds in a random way when I play my audio cds.


help me ! :(

It's about ten months that I cannot use it !!! :confused:
__________________
Denon AVR 4306, Denon DVD 3930, Loewe Individual 46", Sony RDR-HXD 1090

Mike
thanks for your note. I considered buying the JVC but decided against it and instead bought a Sony BDPS560 for $160 (open box at J&R with a $20 off coupon). It had the ethernet port, wifi connectivity and also a better UI. I prefered these to slightly faster but no frills JVC. I know I am taking a bit of a risk here, buying an open box item so keeping my fingers crossed. The 2930CI will be returned.

That's cool! As far as a risk with open box, many times it's about the same risk as getting a lemon on a new in box unit. I've purchased quite a few pieces of my equipment via open box or display and have had pretty good success. If you buy from a reputable dealer, which I would consider J&R to be, you can always return. And of course, the open box still carries full mfgr warranty.

Btw, I've had a Sony 350 BD player and while it was fairly basic, it was an excellent performer with zero issues. You got a pretty good deal on that 560 and I'm sure you'll get great use and enjoyment from it. One of the nice things about Sony BD players, those much needed firmware updates that are unfortunately a fact of life for Blu, are always released in a very timely manner. Enjoy your new toy. :D

Mike T

I'll be pleased if someone can help me solve a big trouble with my Denon DVD 3930... My problem is still here : my Denon starts to freeze 3-5 seconds in a random way when I play my audio cds.


Dear sergiov_it: Try to turn the HDMI output off and check if the problem persists when listenig to CDs.

I just have received mu Denon AVR 3805 to replace my old Harman Kardon AVR 220. Connected the DVD-2930 via DenonLink and... wow. I couldn't think there can be much difference compared to analog multi, but it is. I love it.

Thank you for your help, I too have ordered one and will let you know about the results.

Alain

Hello,

Back from the amateur's table corner, I just installed a new Sanyo laser lens. It doesn't look 100% as the former one but it fits in the player.
I haven't tried to power the unit since there is one spring whose origin I can't determine. The manual doesn't tells about this particular spring so i guess it comes from the traverse unit (which is supposed to be integrated).

Maybe someone will have a cue? (it is a little bigger than the two that serve to block the two thin pieces of metal holding the lens).

If I can't find it, I guess I would still have the option to buy a traverse unit.

Thanks

See the discution here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=17085665#post17085665). Maybe it helps...

Hello,

Back from the amateur's table corner, I just installed a new Sanyo laser lens. It doesn't look 100% as the former one but it fits in the player.
I haven't tried to power the unit since there is one spring whose origin I can't determine. The manual doesn't tells about this particular spring so i guess it comes from the traverse unit (which is supposed to be integrated).

Maybe someone will have a cue? (it is a little bigger than the two that serve to block the two thin pieces of metal holding the lens).

If I can't find it, I guess I would still have the option to buy a traverse unit.

Thanks

I'm almost sure that this spring should be placed between the laser head and its white plastic support. Unfortunately, I don't have a picture to show you the exact place.

Well thank you kunz, this must be the place to put it back. I'll figure it.

I finally got around to setting up my new 2930 today. Things did not go well.

First of all, this machine seems to be among the SLOWEST unit I have ever used. Approx 10 seconds to "load" each single-layer DVD, more like 15 seconds for each dual-layer disc. Secondly, many discs attempted to load and after about 10 seconds the player would simply return to 'stop.' Of the discs that would load, several would freeze upon choosing the first menu option, only to 'stop' 20 seconds or so after freezing.

These issues were with a mix of original & copied NTSC & PAL discs that play perfectly on both of my other players, so I know the discs are proper. Also, these issues occurred with the original firmware (8283-9) and with again with both 8283-E and 8283-F.

Obviously the player is with UPS now, en route to Vanns for return/exchange/???.

My question for seasoned owners: aside from the freezing/stopping, is this player naturally slow? Also, is the player finicky with DVD+/-R DL discs?

FWIW, when a disc did play the picture and sound were both superb.

Thanks in advance for any information you can share with me:cool:

Mine take up to 20 seconds to load a DVD+R DL (longest time, the others are faster), while a Toshiba universal player takes 8 seconds. In my book, that is not something to cry about, since the video quality is better that anythig seen.
Now, the difference it is the connection HDMI on Denon, Component on Toshiba. HDMI is slower anyway because of the HDCP negotiation phase.
But... It never freezed on me or refuse to play.

My 3930 takes longer to load than other players and is slower in going into scan mode as well. I did call and discuss this with Denon when I got it last year, and the answer I got satisfied me somewhat. He told me that these players take a bit longer due to the processing done, for instance the 3930 has the HQV Realta, and it takes a few seconds for the signal to be processed. Maybe that was a wrong response from him but it made sense to me. Simple DVD players don't have much to contend with, so if anyone else wants to chime in on this response that I got, I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Basically, for me, I don't mind waiting the extra time to see the gorgeous picture I get, by the time I am sitting down and situated it's showtime anyway, and I love the fact that I can play PAL discs that are region 2 coded on my Epson 1080 projector. I just ordered the 21 disc Laurel and Hardy DVD collection from the UK and was so happy when I was able to go through the steps on Wednesday and make my player an open region player. I can live with the extra time, but I would have a much harder time giving up the great picture I get from my DVD's and the benefits of the Denon.

Success!! :)
Like kunz said, the spring has its place between the laser unit and the white plastic "holder". So now my 3930 can play discs flowlessly, loading is faster than before and the machine is almost silent.
Thank you who showed the way.
For those with the same problem, my advice would be to remove the whole traverse unit before touching the laser part.

Alain

Mine take up to 20 seconds to load a DVD+R DL (longest time, the others are faster), while a Toshiba universal player takes 8 seconds. In my book, that is not something to cry about, since the video quality is better that anythig seen.
Now, the difference it is the connection HDMI on Denon, Component on Toshiba. HDMI is slower anyway because of the HDCP negotiation phase.
But... It never freezed on me or refuse to play.

My 3930 takes longer to load than other players and is slower in going into scan mode as well. I did call and discuss this with Denon when I got it last year, and the answer I got satisfied me somewhat. He told me that these players take a bit longer due to the processing done, for instance the 3930 has the HQV Realta, and it takes a few seconds for the signal to be processed. Maybe that was a wrong response from him but it made sense to me. Simple DVD players don't have much to contend with, so if anyone else wants to chime in on this response that I got, I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Basically, for me, I don't mind waiting the extra time to see the gorgeous picture I get, by the time I am sitting down and situated it's showtime anyway, and I love the fact that I can play PAL discs that are region 2 coded on my Epson 1080 projector. I just ordered the 21 disc Laurel and Hardy DVD collection from the UK and was so happy when I was able to go through the steps on Wednesday and make my player an open region player. I can live with the extra time, but I would have a much harder time giving up the great picture I get from my DVD's and the benefits of the Denon.

Thanks for replying. The load times, etc. do not bother at all. Heck, I own a Pioneer BDP-51 and don't consider it slow at all. I was just wanting to gauge whether or not the wait times I experienced were due to design or defect as I would like to get another 2930 to try.

I look forward to watching DVD+R DL PAL discs with some killer Reon video quality:D

I own one DVD-ROM disc Region 2 and it plays nice. Actually I have a network media player that can play HD content and 720p video encoded H.264 looks like the regular DVD's on my Denon DVD-2930 - after I have tweaked some of the video settings.

Anyone got any suggestions for a DIY fix to this problem? (I'll send it to Denon eventually but for now I'm looking for the cheap option.)

This week I noticed a problem where my 3930 played some dvds without issue while other dvds took a really long time and a lot of frustrating restarts to get the movie going and any attempt to skip ahead would hang the player.

I replaced the laser and now all DVDs play without issue. However, I can no longer play cds. If I put in a cd, the box sits at "Loading" for about a minute and then shows the time as 0's, as if it is ready to play. However, pressing the play button on either the remote or the face of the player has no effect?

Any ideas appreciated. Thanks.

CD laser and DVD laser are separated. Did you clear completly the transport bridge (it covers separated traces for the two lasers)?
Did you reset the settings for "laser current" and accumulated "laser on time"? Did you also reset completelly the unit?

CD laser and DVD laser are separated. Did you clear completly the transport bridge (it covers separated traces for the two lasers)?
Did you reset the settings for "laser current" and accumulated "laser on time"? Did you also reset completelly the unit?Looks lke I must have missed a few posts when reading up on replacing the laser. Could you give me a bit more help here:

1. I knew that cd and dvd reading required different laser frequencies but I thought they were in the same emitter unit. Is this not so? Do I have to also change a "cd" laser??

2. I think I completely de-soldered the transport bridge. I actually did it twice using de-soldering braid and a magnifier to verify that the traces were clear. Is there an independent way to verify this.

3. I did not reset "laser current" nor "laser accumulated on time." Did not know I needed to do so. Can you please provide directions for these adjustments or reference to the appropriate posts.

4. I did reset the unit each time I worked on the laser.

Thanks much for you help.

The two lasers are in the same optical head. For resetting the current I would recomend to find a service manual - I have only the one for 2930 (I have paid 10$ for it, worth it).

BTW, I don't know if those steps will help, that's just what it is stated in the manual for the laser replacement.

Thanks. I'll see if I can find the service manual.

Just an update in case anyone else runs into this problem....

Downloaded the 3930 service manual. Using it and the instructions previously provided by SoNic67, I reset the initial "laser current" values and "laser accumulated on time" value. No change in problem. Still reads dvds and not cds.

Will try replacing the entire laser traverse unit (found one for $15 with shipping).

However, longer term, if I get this thing working again, I'm probably entering Stage 5 of the Ferengi Stages of Acquisition on my 3930 and Stage 2 in regard to an Oppo BDP-83.

Sorry that the advice didn't help, I saw the reset advice in the 2930 manual. Traverse unit for 15$ is suspiciosly cheap... but who knows. Good luck.

PS: Funny stuff the Ferengi.

My unit also does not play cd's very well and has the same symptoms you describe. If you find a fix, please let me know. I sent mine to the repair tech and he could not find anything wrong with it. However, I have found a work around, but it is a pain in rear end. Cd's are really a problem especially when just turning the unit on. I usually have to hard power the player off to eject the disc after it locks up. The work around I use, is to place a DVD in the tray first. Get it to display a picture on the display. Then, I eject the DVD and place the CD in the player and it works fine (usually). I have had to repeat the task a couple of times to get it to play once in a while, but the first time often works. It usually plays cd's fine if I take the disc out and place a new one, until I place it in standby. Once i have done that, I have to repeat the process again. Has there ever been a class action suit against Denon for the defects revolving around this player? Seems there should be considering the failure rate. I have to say, I no longer recommend Denon products to any clients I have due to their propensity for failure over the past couple of years. I have run into a slew of them.

Obviously the player is with UPS now, en route to Vanns for return/exchange/???.

Blast, out of stock:mad:

Oh well, back to the hunt:rolleyes:

I have replaced the optical unit. All DVD-Audio, Video, Sacd, self burned DVD (DVD-Audio) are playable. Normaly CD -same as DONB :0(
Stings "Brand Newe Day" DTS Audio DVD not recognized :0(
I'll try to reset the unit, currents, counters - I have a service manual copy :0)
Thanks.
Jozef

Received my $16.42 SF-HD65 optical traverse assembly with laser a couple of days ago. Took it out of the box and everything looked OK. Put it on the shelf until I could get to it tonight. Tonight, with the aid of the service manual and only a couple of missteps (the manual is not very clear), I removed and disassembled the DVD mechanism assembly. As I was about to remove the traverse unit, I noticed that the new assembly looked a little odd. The laser appeared to be identical to the previous laser I'd ordered (which was slightly different from the original laser) but the traverse unit itself was different. Closer inspection indicated that the holes in the new unit would not line up with holes in the block on which it was to sit. Also, the rails were BENEATH the unit's plate, not on top as with the original. Thus, I learned the hard way that there is more than one type of SF-HD65 traverse assembly.

Since the lasers "looked" the same, I decided to just remove the laser from the new unit and install it in the old assembly. In short, it was an absolute failure -- neither dvds nor cds will play now. Not sure whether to try DIY again or just send it end. If I try it again, I'm going to ensure that the replacement laser is exactly like the original (if at all possible).

EDIT: Has anyone sent a unit in to Denon to have the laser or traverse unit replaced? What did it cost for the service work w/o shipping? Thanks.

EDIT: Has anyone sent a unit in to Denon to have the laser or traverse unit replaced? What did it cost for the service work w/o shipping? Thanks.I think quite a few of us here have had complete laser unit replaced more than a few times. The complete laser assembly replacement is approx $250.00 to $300.00 installed (including shipping I believe). Unless you have the proper tools and knowledge I would prefer to ship the unit to the (New Jersey) factory and let them do it.

I've had my DVD-3930CI laser unit replaced twice. Thank god it has performed fairly clean for quite a while now (knock-on-wood). Although it hiccup's on a few CD titles here and there, but seems to play everything else fine (ie. SACD's, DVD-A's, SD-DVD's, etc.,...). Still a very impressive player (when it's working properly).

I returned the defective Denon 2930CI back to Vanns who very courteously exchanged it for another brand new one which is sitting in my garage floor as I write this. I might give this 2nd 2930CI unit another shot as my experience with blu-ray has been less than stellar. will post my opinion shortly. If I decide to keep it, I am certain I will come back here to tackle the laser issues.. again, hopefully there wouldnt be any. I just wish the 2030CI didnt have such a fat ass electrical cord that is 2meters long. I am already having trouble hiding the wires behind all my components which are in a shelf with no access to the back except from the front.

The new 2930CI is performing a little better than the old one (seems to be more responsive, also I didnt have hesitation activating the Denon link like the old one)

However, the RS-232 port still seems unresponsive. On one hand I am convinced that I couldnt receive 2 2930CIs with defective RS-232 port. On the other hand, I am able to successfully send RS-232 commands to a Denon 1940CI but not to the Denon 2930CI all things remaining constant. I also know that the RS-232 commands for the 1940CI and 2930CI are identical..

I am completely out of options now, RS-232 just doesnt seem to work for 2930CI.. and will have to settle with IR for remote control.


For those unfamiliar with my situation, here is a brief explanation..

My setup: Universal Remote control MSC-400 and a MX-5000 remote. The MSC-400 is connected to the 2930CI via RS-232.
I have programmed the system to send RS-232 commands to the 2930CI via the MX-5000. ALl things being same, when I connect the MSC-400 to a 1940CI, I am successfully able to control the 1940CI. Using the same setup and just swapping the DVD players, when I send a RS-232 command to the 2930CI, it doesnt respond. Its almost like the RS-232 port is dead. Even when I replaced the 2930CI with another one, I am running into the same problem. 2930CI does not respond to RS-232 commands. The RS-232 commands are identical for 1940CI and 2930CI.

I think quite a few of us here have had complete laser unit replaced more than a few times. The complete laser assembly replacement is approx $250.00 to $300.00 installed (including shipping I believe). Unless you have the proper tools and knowledge I would prefer to ship the unit to the (New Jersey) factory and let them do it.

I've had my DVD-3930CI laser unit replaced twice. Thank god it has performed fairly clean for quite a while now (knock-on-wood). Although it hiccup's on a few CD titles here and there, but seems to play everything else fine (ie. SACD's, DVD-A's, SD-DVD's, etc.,...). Still a very impressive player (when it's working properly).

Good to know that you can have the complete laser assembly replaced for the cost of buying (nearly) 2 brand new units.. oh nevr mind, Vanns is out of them and it lkely they wont get any more of these..

However do not despair, Dakmart is selling them (refurb) through buy.com for $165 plus shipping.

I am happy I finally got a new one, that is working well (except RS-232) for $163 net, including shipping from vanns.

Are you sure that RS232 commands are identical? I think there are listed in the manuals.
I don't have the 1940 one...

Regarding the laser I hope that newer firmware took care of that problem. Mine is working all right, knock on wood.

Are you sure that RS232 commands are identical? I think there are listed in the manuals.
I don't have the 1940 one...

Regarding the laser I hope that newer firmware took care of that problem. Mine is working all right, knock on wood.

I believe the RS-232 commands are identical for 2930CI and 1940CI. I have not updated the firmware on the new 2930CI I received yesterday. It seems to be working fine and I dont want to fix it if it doesnt need fixing.

...The complete laser assembly replacement is approx $250.00 to $300.00 installed (including shipping I believe). Unless you have the proper tools and knowledge I would prefer to ship the unit to the (New Jersey) factory and let them do it...WestCoastD... Thanks for the info. I talked with a couple of Denon reps and could only get quotes on labor, not for theoretical repairs (though they could tell me the costs of individual parts). I finally gave up trying to find an exact match to the original parts, packed the thing up and sent it off to Denon a couple of days ago.

Good to know that you can have the complete laser assembly replaced for the cost of buying (nearly) 2 brand new units... Hmmm.... I should have checked the resell value before sending it in for repair. I "guessed" that I could get at least the cost of repair on the resell market. Makes it a bit more difficult to justify the OPPO.

WestCoastD... Thanks for the info. I talked with a couple of Denon reps and could only get quotes on labor, not for theoretical repairs (though they could tell me the costs of individual parts). I finally gave up trying to find an exact match to the original parts, packed the thing up and sent it off to Denon a couple of days ago.

Hmmm.... I should have checked the resell value before sending it in for repair. I "guessed" that I could get at least the cost of repair on the resell market. Makes it a bit more difficult to justify the OPPO.

dont feel bad.. that price of $169 was momentary.. appears the cost of brand new 2930 has gone back to $300ish.. it is likely to remain that way unless new (older) inventory floors the market like it happened a month ago. It is afterall a superior player when it works. lol.


Last night I tried a DVD, that used to make the 2930CI (that was returned) stutter horrendously.. I tried the DVD on the new 2930CI and the playback was smooth as butter.. my 2nd impressions on the 2930CI have been positive.

I was able to sell my 1940CI for a decent price.. so upgrading cost me about $60 (from 1940CI to 2930CI) and some wasted time. Not bad huh?

I believe the RS-232 commands are identical for 2930CI and 1940CI. I have not updated the firmware on the new 2930CI I received yesterday. It seems to be working fine and I dont want to fix it if it doesnt need fixing.
If the newer firmware takes care of the higher curent in the laser, you will find the need for it too late - after the laser burned out. Alas I don't know for sure if that's the case. Sony had similar problems in their first PS2 units when weak recorded DVD's where played.
My Denon had the first firmware and a Denon US rep send me a CD with the latest FW.
Of course, it is a personal choise :)

If the newer firmware takes care of the higher curent in the laser, you will find the need for it too late - after the laser burned out. Alas I don't know for sure if that's the case. Sony had similar problems in their first PS2 units when weak recorded DVD's where played.
My Denon had the first firmware and a Denon US rep send me a CD with the latest FW.
Of course, it is a personal choise :)

It comes with a 1year warranty, so I would like to challenge this unit to go bust in that window so I can return it back to Denon (at their expense) and have it fixed and returned back to me.

It amazes me that Denon doesnt simply issue a recall on this product or come up with a service bulletin. In the auto industry, that is standard practice.

from the info i have,

There are original parts and imitation parts for the traverse unit's and laser unit's.
the bad,

both has the same numbers on it, so it is hard to tell witch one is the original part and has the best quality.

my 2 cents.

I bet the the traverse that costs the same as the laser cannot be "real" one :)

from the info i have,

There are original parts and imitation parts for the traverse unit's and laser unit's.
the bad,

both has the same numbers on it, so it is hard to tell witch one is the original part and has the best quality.

my 2 cents.

Very likley that the imitation parts and the OEM parts are manufactured at the same location on the same process line.. the distribution is unlikely to be indifferent

Any manufacture process has a yield (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Semiconductor_device_fabrication#Device_test) of good products that have the correct parameters. Some of the products are failing the quality control and there are supposed to be thrown away.
Guess what happens with the parts in the that refuse bin that are not completly defective, but just out of specs (or "just" the CD laser not working)? They sometimes (depends of the location of the manufacturer) show up on eBay at incredible low prices :)

If it sounds to good to be true, it usually is. :(

is it legal to make the player region free? just curious.

is it legal to make the player region free? just curious.

Not illegal that i know off,

There are also company's who make a living by doing this.

The content providers seems not happy with this as they currently realese movie's a regio at a time (a bad thing if you ask me, they must learn to release world wide on one day).

Only problems with other regio disks for me fam. is no subtitels in my native language when a disk is used from a other regio.

Now that we have blue-ray on the market, it should be nice to release the movie for all regio with all subtitle's in it.
space is there on disk.:)

is it legal to make the player region free? just curious.

No offense, but it's funny when people are asking these kinds of questions.

It's my DVD player, my iPhone, my ...(you name it)

I paid my hard earned $ for it and i can do whatever i want with it-make region free, unlock, smash with the hammer etc.

Corporate lawyers might make you think otherwise, but they can kiss my arse:D

No offense, but it's funny when people are asking these kinds of questions.

It's my DVD player, my iPhone, my ...(you name it)

I paid my hard earned $ for it and i can do whatever i want with it-make region free, unlock, smash with the hammer etc.

Corporate lawyers might make you think otherwise, but they can kiss my arse:D

what about terms of sale? I suppose you wouldnt give a sht about that too

The license agreements puts the requirements for region coding only to manufacturers, not the end user. But that means that if you send back to warranty repair the player, you better do a factory reset so they can touch it :)

Is this true? can anyone verify this? ANyone had their unit returned while under warranty, not being fixed because the the unit was unlocked to be region free

I encountered the known laser problems of the 2930 aswell: not reading DVDs, not playing the SACD layer, difficulties navigating the menu.

So I ordered a new laser head on ebay. Got it in last weekend an replaced it. At first it didn't play CD, that was due to a little solder left behind, not a big problem.

But strange thing now is: it seems to play the DVDs that gave a lot of hickups/troubles navigating menus, aswell as SACDs. However it doesn't play any (well, almost none) burned DVDs anymore.

Has someone encountered this problem / has a solution for it? I've been reading the forum, but could'nt find an answer.

Already did the multiregion hack befor laser replacement, Region_A2 still shows
FW: 8283-E

Did you re-install the firmware? That may help.

Did you re-install the firmware? That may help.

I will try this asap tomorrow. I'm not at at home at the moment.
I was planning to flash with the american 8283-F version posted here, but rapidshare gives an error of overloaded servers or something.

I was planning to flash with the american 8323-F version posted here, but rapidshare gives an error of overloaded servers or something.
I will try to repost that file when I get home if it is not working anymore...
I don't think there is a difference in "american" or "EU" firmwares, it is just a matter of factory defaults set via remote programming.

LE: The link still works: GEN8283-F_A15_DVD_2930 (http://rapidshare.com/files/313502633/GEN8283-F_A15_DVD_2930.zip)

I just want to report that my 2930CI has finally met my expectations, I love the pq and the sound.. and the Denon link actually allowed me to use the DVI port (for pic) on my 4806CI.. thus maxing out on all available HDMI/DVI ports and not go for an extra HDMI switch

The RS-232 still doesnt work.. I have given up on that, will control using IR port

I re-installed the 8283-E (EU) firmware last night, now it seems to play almost everything again. So replacing the laser in combination with the firmware seems to have done the trick for me.

Hopefully this laser will keep up the good work. Just in case, I ordered 2 lasers on ebay :), so I'll keep one as backup.

I re-installed the 8283-E (EU) firmware last night, now it seems to play almost everything again. So replacing the laser in combination with the firmware seems to have done the trick for me.

Hopefully this laser will keep up the good work. Just in case, I ordered 2 lasers on ebay :), so I'll keep one as backup.

I was ignorant in knowing that the firmware and laser influence each other that much.

Could you give me the details of the laser you purchased on ebay? I might buy one and keep it, just in case. If I buy and keep it, should I worry about obsoloscence? is there a possibility a better laser might be discovered or designed for this and I might have been better off waiting instead of buying now when it isnt necessary?

Has anyone been able to trace failures to a particular run of units or time period?

Knock on wood, my rather early production DVD-3930CI continues to play DVDs, CDs, DVD-As and SACDs with no issues whatsoever…

Guess what happens with the parts in the that refuse bin that are not completly defective, but just out of specs (or "just" the CD laser not working)? They sometimes (depends of the location of the manufacturer) show up on eBay at incredible low prices :)

At least here in the US, that's usually as a result of dumpster diving. :D

LE: The link still works: GEN8283-F_A15_DVD_2930 (http://rapidshare.com/files/313502633/GEN8283-F_A15_DVD_2930.zip)

Hi all,
does anybody have a change log for the latest firmware (F) for 2930?
what was improved or fixed?
any ideas or, might be, rumors from Denon R&D?

Can somebody repost firmware 8283-E? The earlier links don't seem to work any more..

In case anyone is interested, I received my 3930ci back from the Denon service center during the week of Feb 8 (while I was out of the country for a couple of weeks). Total elapsed time about 4 weeks.

Everything now works fine. According to the repair report, they cleaned and tested all functions, heat run tested for 4 days, replaced the optical pick assembly, reset the CPU and updated the software (8284-A). Total cost was $209.50 (Parts: $110.30; Labor $79; Shipping $20), not counting the money I spent on bargain basement parts while trying to fix the problem myself.

Well I had the laser replaced in my 2930 a few months ago and everything was okay... until 2 weeks ago!

I use this player as a second CD player and 2 of the last 3 CDs I played just stopped playing, randomly, a couple of times. Stopping and resuming fixed the problem.

DVDs are playing fine.

So is this the beginning of the end of my second laser?????

Can somebody repost firmware 8283-E? The earlier links don't seem to work any more..

I have posted before the 8283-F (http://rapidshare.com/files/313502633/GEN8283-F_A15_DVD_2930.zip) version.

In case anyone is interested, I received my 3930ci back from the Denon service center during the week of Feb 8 (while I was out of the country for a couple of weeks). Total elapsed time about 4 weeks.

Everything now works fine. According to the repair report, they cleaned and tested all functions, heat run tested for 4 days, replaced the optical pick assembly, reset the CPU and updated the software (8284-A). Total cost was $209.50 (Parts: $110.30; Labor $79; Shipping $20), not counting the money I spent on bargain basement parts while trying to fix the problem myself.good. Hopefully it will operate cleanly for a long while now. To me not worth buying parts and repairing yourself (even though I think I could perform many of these tasks). Denon factory has all the parts and expertise and diagnostic equipment.

I have posted before the 8283-F (http://rapidshare.com/files/313502633/GEN8283-F_A15_DVD_2930.zip) version.
My player is currently on 8283-F atm.. But I seem to have playback problems atm and I'm wondering if going back to 8283-E will fix (or brick it)...

But all the links to 8283-E don't work anymore...

Here you go!
Please be careful. :)

8283E
http://rapidshare.com/files/357671724/GEN8283-E_C09_DVD2930CI_2930.zip.html

Here you go!
Please be careful. :)

8283E
http://rapidshare.com/files/357671724/GEN8283-E_C09_DVD2930CI_2930.zip.html

Thank you! Much appreciated... Will be careful, not too stressed @ all if things break as I got the player cheap.. But will definitely miss it if it dies though... :eek:

my DVD-3930CI still performing very well (knock-on-wood). Beautiful sound......

I find it annoying to discover that the Denon 2930 does not have an Auto-off.. this I think is very important, otherwise you might discover it operating when you had gone on vacation and after a month, will still be operating (playing some disc) when you come back, that is, if it hasnt broken down by then

I find it annoying to discover that the Denon 2930 does not have an Auto-off.. this I think is very important, otherwise you might discover it operating when you had gone on vacation and after a month, will still be operating (playing some disc) when you come back, that is, if it hasnt broken down by then

If I'm going to be gone for a month, I make sure I turn everything off and unplug all audio/video equipment from the electrical outlet...but that's just me:)

Hello all - I've just been reading the last few posts here and without having to go back through hundreds of posts, it appears there is now a solution to the problem I have been having for a couple of years; i.e. my 2930CI freezing during most DVD plays. It seems to be OK on SACD and CD plays. I'm reluctant to dive in there myself and change anything out and it seems the alternative is to send the unit in to Denon for laser replace and firmware updates. In the past Denon has not been helpful with regard to doing anything for free - it seems I'm just going to have to bite the bullet and send it in (about $200?).

Thanks for any advice.

Hello all - I've just been reading the last few posts here and without having to go back through hundreds of posts, it appears there is now a solution to the problem I have been having for a couple of years; i.e. my 2930CI freezing during most DVD plays. It seems to be OK on SACD and CD plays. I'm reluctant to dive in there myself and change anything out and it seems the alternative is to send the unit in to Denon for laser replace and firmware updates. In the past Denon has not been helpful with regard to doing anything for free - it seems I'm just going to have to bite the bullet and send it in (about $200?).

Thanks for any advice.

Check with Denon to be sure, but someone on this forum paid about $360 to replace the laser assembly (traverse mechanism) on a 3930. I just checked on Amazon.com. You can buy a new 2930 for $350.
On the other hand, the Oppo BDP-80 is only $289 and it plays blurays.

eirepaul, check post 4195.

I replaced my complete mechanism in a 2930 a little over a year ago and have had no issues since. If doing it again, I would just buy the laser part number SF-HD65 without the complete mechanism. It's really easy to do. Some members have said they've bought brand new 2930's for under $200 so not worth sending to Denon. Follow the posts mentioned in post 4195 and you'll do fine and save a ton of money.

Check Ebay for the part number, should be able to get it in your door for under $20.

Norm

I just ordered a Region 2 DVD Video from Amazon U.K. Will I be able to play it on my Denon DVD 3930CI?

I just ordered a Region 2 DVD Video from Amazon U.K. Will I be able to play it on my Denon DVD 3930CI?

Most likely you will need to apply the region-free hack, as follows:

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

NOTE: My player displayed ""Region 1A" after the hack not A2.

Thanks, maphiker. Will doing so apply any other changes, compromise any other functions or pose any operational risks?

Thanks, maphiker. Will doing so apply any other changes, compromise any other functions or pose any operational risks?

This has been on the web for quite a while. I did my 2930 (same procedure) a couple years ago and it is still going strong.
Nevertheless, use it at your own risk.

I did just find an earlier posting of these instructions in this thread. However, it says that the front panel "will briefly display "Region_1A." Does that make any difference?

I did just find an earlier posting of these instructions in this thread. However, it says that the front panel "will briefly display "Region_1A." Does that make any difference?

"1A", Yes, that is what I said (above). I think the "A" is the important part. The 1 or 2 may refer to the original zone (just a guess).

Please help me. I am newbie and sorry for my bad English.
What is the problem ? Subwoofer has no sound !!
I have denon DVD-3930, AVR Marantz SR5004 and my speakers are Monitor Audio vector 5.1. I use 5.1 channel analog out's for SACD connected to Marantz 5.1 channel inputs and the HDMI ( for DVD ) also to my AVR.
When I play SACD my Denon recognizes SACD ( blue SACD logo ), five speakers have sound but subwoofer has no sound. I checked all cabels and subwoofer and everthing is OK. I changed setup of Marantz and Denon hundred times but no result.
I said already I am newbie an probably something in setups is not OK. Please will you tell me how look like your setups ( AVR and DVD ) if you have no problem with subwoofer.

Please will somebody with this.

Please will somebody help me with this?

Please will somebody help me with this?

I sympathize.....the Denons are known to be difficult to set-up properly. I love my 3930 but it is definitely a challenge to work with.

This may seem like an obvious question....you perhaps have already tried this.
But it's the only thing I can think of. From page 14 of the English manual.

Go into the Setup mode
Choose "Audio Setup"
Select first line "Audio Channel"
Make sure it is set to Multichannel
Then choose "Speaker Configuration"
This allows you to tell the player whether or not you have, for example, surrounds, a centre, or subwoofer hooked up and lets you select the crossover frequency.
Scroll down to the subwoofer setting on this sub menu and make sure it says "Yes".

I am not familiar with your receiver but I do have a Marantz also (SR7000) and I believe there is a Yes or No setting for the subwoofer.



Could it also be a level issue?
Go into the "Channel Level" setting instead of "Speaker Configuration" and make sure the sub "+10db" setting is on.
And check the sub output level on your Marantz. I know mine has a specific setting for this. If it is set to minimum and/or the DVD player "+10db" setting is off you would get a very low sub output.

I hope this helps.

I sympathize.....the Denons are known to be difficult to set-up properly. I love my 3930 but it is definitely a challenge to work with.

This may seem like an obvious question....you perhaps have already tried this.
But it's the only thing I can think of. From page 14 of the English manual.

Go into the Setup mode
Choose "Audio Setup"
Select first line "Audio Channel"
Make sure it is set to Multichannel
Then choose "Speaker Configuration"
This allows you to tell the player whether or not you have, for example, surrounds, a centre, or subwoofer hooked up and lets you select the crossover frequency.
Scroll down to the subwoofer setting on this sub menu and make sure it says "Yes".

I am not familiar with your receiver but I do have a Marantz also (SR7000) and I believe there is a Yes or No setting for the subwoofer.



Could it also be a level issue?
Go into the "Channel Level" setting instead of "Speaker Configuration" and make sure the sub "+10db" setting is on.
And check the sub output level on your Marantz. I know mine has a specific setting for this. If it is set to minimum and/or the DVD player "+10db" setting is off you would get a very low sub output.

I hope this helps.


Thank you very much for your answer Rang. Unfortunately I'm away right now but I'll get back home in a few days and try to do what you told me. I'll get back to you! Thanks once again!

I would appreciate a quick answer from experienced folks here.

For the Denon 2930CI (Or the 3930CI):-

1st question. Will the Silicon Optix Reon-Vx HQV chipset for 10-bit HD output from a standard definition 8-bit DVD source be optimised when using component outputs instead of HDMI?

2nd question. Can scaling to 1080p be carried out via component outputs?

Thanks.

I recently bought this denon (2930-ci) for a few hundred thinking it would provide the best possible picture quality - it does not.

If i mess with the settings and set the contrast to -1 and set the NR to 1+ or 2+ that helps, but my ps3 still does a much better job.

Would i be able to send this unit in and have denon upgrade the scaling hardware?

Do you know if this denon has the reon or realta chip? am i wasting my time and will my ps3 always produce a better picture than this denon?

Please advise...

Thanks

Thank you The Rang very much indeed. Now is OK. I just set Sub on "+10db", how you said, and my Sub is now alive. What a beautiful machine.

Most likely you will need to apply the region-free hack, as follows:

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

NOTE: My player displayed ""Region 1A" after the hack not A2.

Well, I just applied the region-free hack exactly as instructed above and the movie I tried to play ("Nowhere Boy") produced audio, but no video.:(
As mentioned, it's a PAL Region 2 disc from Amazon U.K.
Before applying the hack when I loaded the disc into my DVD 3930' it said "Wrong Region." After the hack, as noted, I had audio with a black screen and the only way to restore the blue background screen was to power the unit off. The video mode is set to "Multi" for both NTSC and PAL.
(Couldn't even bring up the Setup menu.) Fortunately, my Region 1 NTSC DVDs still play.
Help!

Try setting the TV type to NTSC. It's the TV type, not the DVD type.

Try setting the TV type to NTSC. It's the TV type, not the DVD type.
That worked. Thanks. :D
I'd have thought the "Auto" setting would have been okay, too, but I guess not. Don't have time tonight to play the whole movie through, but I'll let you know what happens. Thanks again.

That worked. Thanks. :D
I'd have thought the "Auto" setting would have been okay, too, but I guess not. Don't have time tonight to play the whole movie through, but I'll let you know what happens. Thanks again.

Enjoy! :D

I recently bought this denon (2930-ci) for a few hundred thinking it would provide the best possible picture quality - it does not.

If i mess with the settings and set the contrast to -1 and set the NR to 1+ or 2+ that helps, but my ps3 still does a much better job.

Would i be able to send this unit in and have denon upgrade the scaling hardware?

Do you know if this denon has the reon or realta chip? am i wasting my time and will my ps3 always produce a better picture than this denon?

Please advise...

Thanks

the 2930 does not have either silicon optix chips... you cannot upgrade the hardware.

I just ordered a Region 2 DVD Video from Amazon U.K. Will I be able to play it on my Denon DVD 3930CI?

BTW, if I remember correctly, the 3930 had some minor issues when playing PAL discs. There was a firmware upgrade that required returning the unit to Denon for a fix. The issue has been addressed online, although more so in European forums than in this one.

BTW, if I remember correctly, the 3930 had some minor issues when playing PAL discs. There was a firmware upgrade that required returning the unit to Denon for a fix. The issue has been addressed online, although more so in European forums than in this one.
After doing the hack, I played my Region 2 PAL disc with the player's video set to NTSC, as suggested by Maphiker, and it played through in its entirety without any problem.:)

BTW, if I remember correctly, the 3930 had some minor issues when playing PAL discs.

I did the hack to my stock 3930 which has the 08 revision firmware. It plays region 2 and PAL to a Sony Ruby without any issues.

Wow I was thinking of picking up a 2930 for use in an analog setup. After reading around and hearing all these bad reviews on the drive/laser failing, I am really starting to think it may not be a good idea to pick up one of the refurbished models even though there is some warranty on it. I see some have replaced the laser themselves. It seems more prevalent in the 2930 compared to the 3930. I am not sure if it is worth it or just waiting for the new universal BD players coming in Aug this year.

I really want SACD/DVD-A in my analog setup but I do not want to sign up for a bunch of headaches.

Wow I was thinking of picking up a 2930 for use in an analog setup. After reading around and hearing all these bad reviews on the drive/laser failing, I am really starting to think it may not be a good idea to pick up one of the refurbished models even though there is some warranty on it. I see some have replaced the laser themselves. It seems more prevalent in the 2930 compared to the 3930. I am not sure if it is worth it or just waiting for the new universal BD players coming in Aug this year.

I really want SACD/DVD-A in my analog setup but I do not want to sign up for a bunch of headaches.

You may want to consider the Oppo BDP-83, especially if you are interested in multichannel analog sound. The lower end (cheaper) Denons that are coming out may not have multichannel analog and may not be the best up-scaling.

I have had my 2930 for 3+ years without a hitch. It is hard or impossible to judge from a thread like this what the true incidence of problems is. Of course, you will mostly hear from those with problems. Nevertheless, it does appear that problems exist. Make sure you get a warranty.

You may want to consider the Oppo BDP-83, especially if you are interested in multichannel analog sound. The lower end (cheaper) Denons that are coming out may not have multichannel analog and may not be the best up-scaling.

I have had my 2930 for 3+ years without a hitch. It is hard or impossible to judge from a thread like this what the true incidence of problems is. Of course, you will mostly hear from those with problems. Nevertheless, it does appear that problems exist. Make sure you get a warranty.

Well the Oppo 83 does not have near the analog audio hardware the 2930 does and it costs $500 new. This is actually for a 2ch analog setup. I can get a refurb 2930 with warranty for much cheaper than a Oppo 83 plus I already have a nice BD player so I am more looking for something to compliment my BD player. I do not mind having a multiple disc player setup and 2 channel analog sound is my main focus.

Well the Oppo 83 does not have near the analog audio hardware the 2930 does and it costs $500 new. This is actually for a 2ch analog setup. I can get a refurb 2930 with warranty for much cheaper than a Oppo 83 plus I already have a nice BD player so I am more looking for something to compliment my BD player. I do not mind having a multiple disc player setup and 2 channel analog sound is my main focus.

Why would you want to buy DVD player for 2ch analog setup? Do you have a lot of 2ch DVD-A's? AFAIK, it doesn't even play SACD's via analog.

1. 2930CI has the REON-VX chip (SXVX50 (http://www.idt.com/products/getDoc.cfm?docID=18688143)). Who cares to check there is the service manual (http://rapidshare.com/files/314114374/DVD-2930CI.zip) (you're wellcome, I have paid 10$ for it).
2. 2930CI plays stereo and 5.1 SACD and DVD-A. Connected to a Denon AVR 3805 via Denon Link III will send digital SACD and hi-res PCM to be decoded by the the receiver. Stereo output has slighty better OpAmps. I have changed all channels in my 2390CI to LM4562 and I like it even better.
DAC's are PCM1791A (four of them, it is a dedicated one for the stereo output and another three for the multichannel). The signal is processed suplimentarry by the AL24 Processing Plus (D708E001).

Why would you want to buy DVD player for 2ch analog setup? Do you have a lot of 2ch DVD-A's? AFAIK, it doesn't even play SACD's via analog.

I find that hard to believe that is does not play SACD via analog. My 2ch setup also has a 50" plasma so it is not just for audio.

I find that hard to believe that is does not play SACD via analog. My 2ch setup also has a 50" plasma so it is not just for audio.

Go to the Denon web site and download the manual. You should be able to figure it out from the manual. I would think it does play the decoded DSD via the dedicated stereo outs, but it pays to check.

I find that hard to believe that is does not play SACD via analog.

I own the 3930 and had the 2930 before upgrading.

Both play SACD via the 2 channel analog outs.
You may want to use Source Direct to make sure you get the most from it.

Wouldn't have kept either machine if they didn't.

The Denon manual can be very confusing, a warning in advance ;)

I recently bought this denon (2930-ci) for a few hundred thinking it would provide the best possible picture quality - it does not.
...
Do you know if this denon has the reon or realta chip? am i wasting my time and will my ps3 always produce a better picture than this denon?


As has been said, the 2930 has the Reon chip, which is currently in a lot of the bluray players. So I would guess that the 2930 is about as good at SD video as many of the current BR players out there. But I haven't actually compared them.

3-4 years ago, while waiting on my 3930 to arrive, my dealer loaned me a 2930. I took it home and it looked great. In fact, I nearly called the dealer and told them to cancel the 3930. But I procrastinated, as usual.

When the 3930 showed up, I compared the two. The 3930 is dramatically better, which is saying something since the 2930 is very good. The 3930 has the Realta chip - the Reon is a cost-reduced, lower-PQ version of this chip.

I have since compared it to my LG Bluray player and PS3. On SD-DVD, the 3930 PQ is IMHO much better than both, although the other two are quite good.

Of course, it sucks on BR...

I have also compared the 3930 with a DVD to the LG with BR. I used a Superbit version of 5th element vs a remastered BR of the same. While the Superbit looked really great, the BR had tons more detail, much sharper, and better color.

My conclusion? Get a BR player, and rather than spend money on a really good DVD player, replace any DVD that doesn't look good enough to you (with a BR version.) Here, "good enough" is a cost vs quality issue. But I've concluded for myself that if I care about quality, SD-DVD is never going to be as good as a well-mastered BR.

-Reid

The 3930 is dramatically better, which is saying something since the 2930 is very good. The 3930 has the Realta chip - the Reon is a cost-reduced, lower-PQ version of this chip.

I have since compared it to my LG Bluray player and PS3. On SD-DVD, the 3930 PQ is IMHO much better than both, although the other two are quite good.



I was able to do the same comparison (2930 vs 3930) and came to the same conclusions. The 3930 is much better and it is also superior on SD-DVD to my Sony BDP-S550 Blu-ray player.

The 3930 is also noticably superior playing music (CD, SACD, DVD-A) which is why I upgraded.

I was able to do the same comparison (2930 vs 3930) and came to the same conclusions. The 3930 is much better and it is also superior on SD-DVD to my Sony BDP-S550 Blu-ray player.

The 3930 is also noticably superior playing music (CD, SACD, DVD-A) which is why I upgraded.

I have both the 3930 and the Oppo BDP83SE.
I have been very happy with the 3930 , but the BDP83SE sounds better for 2ch analogue.
I still use the 3930 for SD-DVD.

Thank you AVS Forum for Denon 2930 Fix!
I bought a 2930 in early 2007, and had intermittent SACD disc recognition problems and occasional DVD playback problems from the start. I tried several firmware upgrades along the way, and they seemed to make some improvement, but lately I had all but given up on it.
A few days ago, while searching for yet another firmware upgrade file, I found that several of you had replaced the laser assembly on your 2930/3930 with little cost and great success. So, I found one of the SF-HD65 units for $12 on eBay, ordered it and got it within a few days, and voila! All is now working as it should have from the start!
Thanks to all for sharing your experiences, and inspiring me to perform a "laserectomy" on my 2930.

I have both the 3930 and the Oppo BDP83SE.
I have been very happy with the 3930 , but the BDP83SE sounds better for 2ch analogue.
I still use the 3930 for SD-DVD.

I've heard varying reports about how the BDP83SE compares with players like the Denon on 2 channel. Some prefer the Denon, others the Oppo.
Everyone agrees on one thing though, both are excellent and the Oppo is the greater value.

Having said that, had the SE option been available earlier I would have chosen the Oppo over the Sony for BD, despite the much higher price, to get the improved analog outputs.

A few days ago, while searching for yet another firmware upgrade file, I found that several of you had replaced the laser assembly on your 2930/3930 with little cost and great success. So, I found one of the SF-HD65 units for $12 on eBay, ordered it and got it within a few days, and voila! All is now working as it should have from the start!


Every time I read a post like this, I think "I really ought to go buy one of those SF-HD65 units before they vanish forever!" My first 3930 failed under warranty (with the laser problem), but my second one has worked flawlessly for almost 3 years now.

So my dilemma is: what would the HT gods do if I bought an unneeded replacement part? Surely something terrible. :rolleyes:

-Reid

I also wanted to post a thank you. I bought a (used, of course) 3930CI and am using it exclusively as a 2 channel music player. Thanks to this thread I was able to upgrade the firmware to the newest version without incident.

Reid - Since I plan on using this player for a long time I just went ahead and bought 3 of the lasers from a ebay seller in Hong kong. $8 each shipped. I haven't had to use any of them but I like having them just in case.

Mark

I could be wrong, but it is my impression that all lasers in dvd players, cd players, etc. eventually fail. I have 2 extra lasers and a traverse unit.

I've heard varying reports about how the BDP83SE compares with players like the Denon on 2 channel. Some prefer the Denon, others the Oppo.
Everyone agrees on one thing though, both are excellent and the Oppo is the greater value.

Having said that, had the SE option been available earlier I would have chosen the Oppo over the Sony for BD, despite the much higher price, to get the improved analog outputs.

I am not sure if the 3910 has the exact same analog audio hardware as the 3930 but I am betting it does. My 3910 sounds absolutely amazing and I have heard a bunch of good players. I had a 2910 a while back and it was good but nothing like the 3910.

The circuit design of the Denon with all the discrete boards and components just seems like it is on a whole other level than the Oppo. The dedicated section for the 2ch outputs uses Burr-Brown PCM 1796. I am familiar with the sound of many Wolfson and Burr-Brown DACs but I have never heard anything from Sabre. I have been following the 83SE thread and people seem to be having issues with some of their SACDs. Also for multi analog use, the speaker setup options and bass management in the Oppos does not even come close to what the Denon or my Pioneer BD player offer. The Software to run high quality hardware is equally important. I think Oppo could take the SE to the next level if they upgraded their software to address this.

I have not heard the 83SE but I would love to give it a try if there was some way to do like a 30 day test with the option of returning it. I am just so happy with my 3910/Pio Elite BDP-23FD combo. This is in my nice 2ch analog setup using Rotel separates/B&W CM series.

I wonder why these newer 2930/3930 are having these laser issues that seem so common. I almost got a 2930 until I heard about this problems discussed in this thread. I know the 2910/3910 have a very solid track record so I decided to buy a refurb 3910 over the 2930 since its main use is as a music player so video processing is not that relevant. I also got a 2 year warranty on it. I actually paid less for my Denon/Pio Elite combo than a new SE and both of mine have 2 year warranties as opposed to Oppo's 1 year. Region free DVD playback is a breeze on the Denon as well.

I could be wrong, but it is my impression that all lasers in dvd players, cd players, etc. eventually fail. I have 2 extra lasers and a traverse unit.

True but the previous 2910/3910 did not have anywhere near the failures that have been reported in this thread. Denon should really do a recall. One thing that bugs me about Denon is the short warranty and poor product support for "high end" electronics.

Their more expensive players should be like in a "Elite" category and carry a longer warranty like Marantz's 3 year.

I have been having some very intermittant issues with my 3930 stalling when playing CDs. It seems to be playing SACDS fine. This seems to be opposite the normal issues - does it still mean the laser is starting to fail? Anyone else have trouble with CD playback but not SACD?

Mark

Latest firmware for Denon DVD-2930ci

I got a 2930ci and it has problems playing SACD. I called Denon and they did not know anything about the firmware version.

Is version 8283-F the latest firmware version firmware for DVD-2930ci (US model)? Where can I find the firmware to download? Thank you.

Latest firmware for Denon DVD-2930ci

I got a 2930ci and it has problems playing SACD. I called Denon and they did not know anything about the firmware version.

Is version 8283-F the latest firmware version firmware for DVD-2930ci (US model)? Where can I find the firmware to download? Thank you.

PM me and I will try to send you the firmware.
You are probably having laser problems. Do a search on this thread for lots of information.

I did provide first the "F" firmware and it is still active on the same location:
http://rapidshare.com/files/313502633/GEN8283-F_A15_DVD_2930.zip.html
Mirrored here too: http://www.filefactory.com/file/b2ecefg/n/GEN8283-F_A15_DVD2930CI_2930.zip

Im trying to update the firmware on my denon 2930 as im getting some skipping towards the end of movies. I'm using the method posted earlier on this thread. I have the latest fw folder 'DVD_2930' burned to a disc, but when i INITIALIZE and insert the disc, it reads for a few seconds then very brifley displays 'DISC READING' before resetting and displaying '0h00m00s'.

Can anyone give me some advice on how to do this properly?

Thanks

UPDATE: I got it sorted. I was burning the disc using windows 7 built-in disc burner. Once i switched to Nero using no Multisession, ISO9660, DAO, it worked like a charm.

Anybody use the 2930 or 3930 with Denon link for SACD or DVD-A Playback?

I do for multichannel discs. A 3930 previously with a 3806 , now with a 4308.

Anybody use the 2930 or 3930 with Denon link for SACD or DVD-A Playback?


And your question is... ??

FWIW, I've a closeout 2930CI ($850 new) and 5910CI ($4k new), but have never used their "Denon link" connection capability.

They both do SACD and DVD-A, and they both do it very very well. I normally use my 2930CI as my main movie and music player, in order to "save" my 5910CI player for more critical listening.

If you search amazon for "denon sacd player" you'll find that the 2930CI can still be bought for $330 total.

Noting that even the unused/"new" units are old (2930ci: 11-'06, 5910ci: 12-'06)


Cheers

I just got a PM concerning firmware versions for the 2930. Version GEN8283-F was circulated on this forum after it was sent to a member purportedly by someone at USA Denon. The version GEN8283-E was the last official release on the European web site. No one seems to know what the difference is, if any, between the two versions. I initially installed the F version but got a little scared and reinstalled the E version. I did not notice any differences in the two versions. Also, after more than three years I have never had any laser problems.

Does anyone have additional information? Is it still unknown what the difference is between versions E and F?

I've been intrigued by this player for quite some time. I see its available at Dakmart refurbished for $160.00 . Anyone care to comment on the wisdom of this purchase? Maybe the refurb units have been cured of some the common problems with this player. If this question has already been asked, forgive me but this thread is absolutely massive. I like the idea of having a dedicated player for my DVD's, something that might outlast the crappy build quality of my Toshiba XDE 600.

I've been intrigued by this player for quite some time. I see its available at Dakmart refurbished for $160.00 . Anyone care to comment on the wisdom of this purchase? Maybe the refurb units have been cured of some the common problems with this player. If this question has already been asked, forgive me but this thread is absolutely massive. I like the idea of having a dedicated player for my DVD's, something that might outlast the crappy build quality of my Toshiba XDE 600.

Good question. I would say, it depends. If you plan to listen to a lot of SACDs and DVDAs for multichannel music and you have a Denon receiver with a Denon Link 3 then you may have a good deal. Because this player is older and has only HDMI 1.1 it will not pass DSD from SACDs through the HDMI connector. It will pass DSD through the DL. Therefore you need the DL on the receiver or use the analog outs for sound.

However, if you are only interested in the DVD function, then the question is, "Can you get a better video processor/scaler for under $160"?

I don't know the answer to that question. I'd be surprised if you can. Look for Anchor Bay Technology in the processor. Anchor Bay is currently being touted as a higher quality processor. Perhaps others know more than I do about this.

You might also try to find a DVD3930 for under $160. The 3930 is superior to the 2930 in terms of video. Over all I'd say the 2930 is a pretty good deal for $160. Please be aware, some people have had problems with the lasers in these units but this problem can be easily fixed if you are at all handy or, of course, if the unit is on warranty.

Good luck.

Yes, I understand that the ABT chips are excellent. The Denon BDP 2010 uses an ABT chip, it may even be better than the Realta. I always wonder how far that the DVD technology might have been pushed were it not for a new format. Maybe I should just go for the BDP 2010 instead.

Yes, I understand that the ABT chips are excellent. The Denon BDP 2010 uses an ABT chip, it may even be better than the Realta. I always wonder how far that the DVD technology might have been pushed were it not for a new format. Maybe I should just go for the BDP 2010 instead.

I understand the Oppo BDP-83 is good too.

My curiosity has gotten the better of me and I went ahead and ordered a refurb unit from Amazon. I might as well get a laser head replacement as well, I noticed they are'nt too expensive. I already have had a Blu-ray player for a year or so, but I've never really been blown away by it. I've always found that Blu-ray has a more "video-like" look to the picture processing, where as the DVD format has a more "film-like" look to it, if that makes any sense. I wonder, as Blu-ray becomes more mainstream, will the DVD upscaling ability of the BD players become less important? Or will companies like Silicon Optix and ABT continue to develop better/more capable chips?

Anyhow, after my unit arrives, likely next week, I'll post something about it. I know this thread has been going for a few years now, and I don't know how much interest there is, but I always like to try and get the most out of old units as I can.

The 3930 is also noticably superior playing music (CD, SACD, DVD-A) which is why I upgraded.yep, the DVD-3930CI is a superb music player, compares to many popular-brand dedicated players. I prefer it over my Oppo BD-83SE for 2ch

My curiosity has gotten the better of me and I went ahead and ordered a refurb unit from Amazon. I might as well get a laser head replacement as well, I noticed they are'nt too expensiveI guess you can't lose for $160.00 . I understand (from the many comments on this thread- going way back) the DVD-2930 provides good overall performance. I can't say how well it's video quality is (comparing to the DVD-3930CI), but I understand it yields decent 2ch CD analog output (has decent DAC's for the price). Although I would have opted for a refurbished DVD-3930CI or a new BDP-2010 . But oh well..........

Anyhow, after my unit arrives, likely next week, I'll post something about it. I know this thread has been going for a few years now, and I don't know how much interest there is, but I always like to try and get the most out of old units as I can.I will be curious to get your impressions. Have fun!

I have been interested in the 3930 and I see it is now available new for $500 BUT is there an active link to the latest firmware update? Denon doesn't show this player in the updates drop down box. Thanks

I have been interested in the 3930 and I see it is now available new for $500 BUT is there an active link to the latest firmware update? Denon doesn't show this player in the updates drop down box. ThanksI would imagine/hope/think, if these are recent product re-releases, that Denon would have implemented all pertinent firmware fixes necessary.

I would imagine/hope/think, if these are recent product re-releases, that Denon would have implemented all pertinent firmware fixes necessary.

That is what Dakmart is saying also as it is a recent re-furb but I have learned never to assume.

That is what Dakmart is saying also as it is a recent re-furb but I have learned never to assume.

All the latest firmware are on the European Denon site. You will need a European serial number but you should be able to find one via a search or another forum. I am sure someone will give it to you.

http://firmware.denon-online.eu/index.php

Thanks maphiker, I think I will go for it.

I have both the 3930 and the Oppo BDP83SE.
I have been very happy with the 3930 , but the BDP83SE sounds better for 2ch analogue.
I still use the 3930 for SD-DVD.
I currently use a Panasonic BDP-65 for Blu-Ray and streaming, and my Denon DVD 3930CI for SD-DVD and all music formats. I was thinking of replacing both with the Oppo BDP83SE, and I'm wondering if you find the 3930's SD-DVD picture quality to be demonstrably better than the Oppo in that regard?

Anyone else have views on that same comparison?

I currently use a Panasonic BDP-65 for Blu-Ray and streaming, and my Denon DVD 3930CI for SD-DVD and all music formats. I was thinking of replacing both with the Oppo BDP83SE, and I'm wondering if you find the 3930's SD-DVD picture quality to be demonstrably better than the Oppo in that regard?

Anyone else have views on that same comparison?

In my view I like the 3930 better for SD-DVD compared to the Oppo, but BDP83SE is close.
The Oppo BDP83SE must be the best multi format player on the market to it's price.

It will be interesting to see how the new Denon '2011 compares with whatever model Oppo comes out with to replace the BDP-83SE. Denon has acknowledged that the 2011 is being developed at the same price point as the Oppo to compete directly with it.

yep, the DVD-3930CI is a superb music player, compares to many popular-brand dedicated players. I prefer it over my Oppo BD-83SE for 2ch


Interesting. I see that a new OPPO BD-83SE w/shipping goes for about $920 or $930.

Any reason(s), besides SQ, that you prefer the Denon DVD-3930CI for playing music?

e.g. are BD players still less easy to use as players than CD and DVD players?


Cheers

I guess you can't lose for $160.00 . I understand (from the many comments on this thread- going way back) the DVD-2930 provides good overall performance. I can't say how well it's video quality is (comparing to the DVD-3930CI), but I understand it yields decent 2ch CD analog output (has decent DAC's for the price). Although I would have opted for a refurbished DVD-3930CI or a new BDP-2010 . But oh well..........

I will be curious to get your impressions. Have fun!


FWIW, my Denon 2930CI is a pleasant surprise, both for audio playback of all kinds (2 channel and 5.1 channel) and also for video (DVD), and is my current main player of DVD and CD and SACD and DVD_A and DTS discs.

That's in comparison to my Denon 5910CI (75% off on closeout, which is key to why I went for it).

On a warm day with temps pushing 90F (no air-conditioning), it's a good idea to have a low speed 120mm fan on top of each of these players, especially the warmer running 5910CI.


Cheers

My curiosity has gotten the better of me and I went ahead and ordered a refurb unit from Amazon. I might as well get a laser head replacement as well, I noticed they are'nt too expensive.


IMO that's likely a good decision. Once you get it, call up the seller (Adgtron?) and ask them 1) if Denon did the refurb and 2) if the warranty is by Denon and 3) if the warranty is the normal warranty for a 2930CI.


Anyhow, after my unit arrives, likely next week, I'll post something about it. I know this thread has been going for a few years now, and I don't know how much interest there is, but I always like to try and get the most out of old units as I can.


Hey, I'm one that is interested.

Especially given that you own a Blu-Ray player, and are likely to offer comparative comments.

With regard to buying refurb at $165, vs one of the closeout new 2930CI units from Amazon at twice the price, my one hunch is that the new unit is just as likely to have a laser alignment problem as the refurbed unit.

FWIW, I bought both a closeout 2930CI and 5910CI at very good prices and don't regret it.

By plain good luck the laser of the 2930CI was/still-is spot on.

The more expensive 5910CI had flaky laser issues and I quickly got a 2nd one and returned the bad one.


Cheers

My unit will arrive tomorrow. It was purchased from an Amazon seller, adgtron, as Dakmart would not bother to reply to my correspondence regarding this player. I have seen the Reon chip in action before in a Samsung 2550 BD player, and I thought the video processing was very strong. I have seen comparisons with the ABT chip in the Denon 2010 and it was described as "splitting hairs" as to which was better. I have even read that the Reon, in certain tests, is better at handling the jaggies than the Realta,

http://www.amazon.com/Denon-DVP-602CI-Digital-Processor-Switcher/dp/B001AQZIZK/ref=sr_1_4?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1284402489&sr=1-4

In any case, this will likely be the most "high end" component I have owned, and I am also looking forward to listening to music on it as well.

Any reason(s), besides SQ, that you prefer the Denon DVD-3930CI for playing music?

e.g. are BD players still less easy to use as players than CD and DVD players?personally I like the "natural" sound quality of the DVD-3930CI. While the Oppo BD-83SE is very clean sounding I feel the Denon yields a nicer presentation for 2ch/5.1ch analog (CD's, SACD and DVD-A sources), has nice bass-management. But overall the Oppo is probably a more stable unit overall, I've experienced various failures from the Denon in the past (it freeze's randomnly while playing CD sources). Oppo has beautiful BD and SD-DVD output. The Denon yields exceptional SD-DVD output.

On a warm day with temps pushing 90F (no air-conditioning), it's a good idea to have a low speed 120mm fan on top of each of these players, especially the warmer running 5910CIyou're definitely right here. I live in Los Angeles, it get's well over 90 degrees-plus during the warm months, I can't play my system, it just gets too hot inside, players are more subject to failure, unstable playback.

Any reason(s), besides SQ, that you prefer the Denon DVD-3930CI for playing music?

e.g. are BD players still less easy to use as players than CD and DVD players?


personally I like the "natural" sound quality of the DVD-3930CI. While the Oppo BD-83SE is very clean sounding I feel the Denon yields a nicer presentation for 2ch/5.1ch analog (CD's, SACD and DVD-A sources), has nice bass-management. But overall the Oppo is probably a more stable unit overall, I've experienced various failures from the Denon in the past (it freeze's randomnly while playing CD sources). Oppo has beautiful BD and SD-DVD output. The Denon yields exceptional SD-DVD output.


FWIW, both my Denon 2930CI, and much more expensive 5910CI, are picky with regard to reading any marginal quality discs. Something I've run across more than a few times.

For marginal CD's, I use EAC ( Exact Audio Copy ) on my PC to get a valid rip of any poor CD or hybrid-SACD (CD layer) discs, and then burn that valid rip to a high quality blank CD.

It's like a gift from God that we can do this legally when we already own a marginal quality original disc.


Cheers

I currently use a Panasonic BDP-65 for Blu-Ray and streaming, and my Denon DVD 3930CI for SD-DVD and all music formats. I was thinking of replacing both with the Oppo BDP83SE, and I'm wondering if you find the 3930's SD-DVD picture quality to be demonstrably better than the Oppo in that regard?I think both, the DVD-3930CI and BDP-83SE, perform very well with SD-DVD sources. I'm not a video pro, I don't have the expertise to compare here, only my eye. But the Denon definitely has a very nice film-like characteristic. The Oppo is probably nearly equal in this regard. I've read many comments on the Oppo thread that the BDP-83 is very noticeably better than the DVD-3930CI with SD-DVD's, guess you have to see for yourself.

If it came down to selecting a single unit I would have to go with the Oppo, it is a more current product (ie. having BD capability, etc.,...), it has a great combination of features combined with solid operation and solid support, definitely a great refined product.

I've got my new DVD-2930 home, hooked up via HDMI to my Denon reciever. I have gone through the video and audio settings, but have'nt tweaked the picture quality settings yet. I tried out my kids Harry Potter movie (the first one), and I was very impressed with the picture. As far as DVD goes, it's a much stronger picture than either my Toshiba XDE600, which I thought was pretty good, and much better than the upscaling of my Sony bd player. This particular movie has a lot of dark scenes, lots of blacks, which the Denon handled very well. Then I popped in the Blu-ray version of the same movie. The BD version had slightly better blacks, but I have always found DVD to have more of "photographic" quality to it, which I find lacking in Blu-ray. The BD technology sometimes can over-process or over-saturate a picture. I'm not saying the Denon made the film look better (or worse) than Blu-ray, but its very good.

Others have already stated the obvious build quality of this machine. Its absolutely enormous! I had to completly re-think my hi-fi cabinet to make room for this big boy. I opted for leaving it on top so its well vented. The refurb unit I recieved from Adgtron on Amazon is completely free of any blemish, scratch or marks. The warranty is with Denon, also the refurb was done by Denon. Manufacturing date is March,2007.

I've got my new DVD-2930 home, hooked up via HDMI to my Denon reciever. I have gone through the video and audio settings, but have'nt tweaked the picture quality settings yet. I tried out my kids Harry Potter movie (the first one), and I was very impressed with the picture. As far as DVD goes, it's a much stronger picture than either my Toshiba XDE600, which I thought was pretty good, and much better than the upscaling of my Sony bd player. This particular movie has a lot of dark scenes, lots of blacks, which the Denon handled very well. Then I popped in the Blu-ray version of the same movie. The BD version had slightly better blacks, but I have always found DVD to have more of "photographic" quality to it, which I find lacking in Blu-ray. The BD technology sometimes can over-process or over-saturate a picture. I'm not saying the Denon made the film look better (or worse) than Blu-ray, but its very good.

Others have already stated the obvious build quality of this machine. Its absolutely enormous! I had to completly re-think my hi-fi cabinet to make room for this big boy. I opted for leaving it on top so its well vented. The refurb unit I recieved from Adgtron on Amazon is completely free of any blemish, scratch or marks. The warranty is with Denon, also the refurb was done by Denon. Manufacturing date is March,2007.

For HDMI output I have found it best to set IRE to 0 in the picture quality settings. All other PQ settings I leave at default. This gives better blacks.

Thanks for the tip on the picture settings. I've never listened to music being sent to a reciever via hdmi, it sounds decent to my ears, but is there a better connection alternative for 2-channel music listening?

Thanks for the tip on the picture settings. I've never listened to music being sent to a reciever via hdmi, it sounds decent to my ears, but is there a better connection alternative for 2-channel music listening?

Depending on the quality of the DAC chips in your receiver, the stereo analog outs on the 2930 may yield better sound. This is a least in theory, don't know if I could tell the difference in a blind test.

yep, the DVD-3930CI is a superb music player, compares to many popular-brand dedicated players. I prefer it over my Oppo BD-83SE for 2ch

I said the same thing once in Oppo thread and fanboys there thought that I'm a bit crazy:D

I really, really like this player for its audio abilities. There's something very "musical" about that separate 2ch analog output. Plus those impressive bass management features alone are worth the current price.

Unfortunately, I was one of the "lucky" ones who bought 3930 again with crappy laser and had to send it back.

I'm still trying to understand how widespread this issue is? Is there a single 3930 owner who never had any laser issues at all?

If I could finally find a good unit, I think I would be set for quite a while regarding my audio and DVD player.

I'm still trying to understand how widespread this issue is? Is there a single 3930 owner who never had any laser issues at all.

I have had my 3930 for 2 years and have never had any problems with it whatsoever. Although, I did purchase it from an authorized Denon dealer as a factory authorized reconditioned unit. So it is possible the laser had gone bad and Denon fixed it already, that I will never know. But it's never failed me and still has what I consider the best video upscaler (HQV Realta) in the business.

i have had a 3930 for almost 4 years. Maybe 1 or 2 hundred CD plays. Many hundreds of DVD plays. Only issue was the unit did not select the SACD layer on 2 SACD/CDs I had until I updated the firmware.

IMHO excellent DVD PQ and very good 2 ch analog SQ. And I don't mark on the common (PC) scale where mediocre is 4 stars.

Had it for a few weeks now and there has been some erratic behavior. Sometimes the disc open/close is very slow respond, once it froze up completly. I'm keeping it unplugged when I'm not using it, as is recommended at the beginning of the user manual.

i have had a 3930 for almost 4 years. Maybe 1 or 2 hundred CD plays. Many hundreds of DVD plays. Only issue was the unit did not select the SACD layer on 2 SACD/CDs I had until I updated the firmware.

IMHO excellent DVD PQ and very good 2 ch analog SQ. And I don't mark on the common (PC) scale where mediocre is 4 stars.

Bought my 3930 3 1/2 years ago.
Once in awhile it won't recognize the SACD layer, so I reload the disc and everything is fine.
Beyond that, all is good, except the new 24K gold discs from Audio Fidelity are often reluctant to play.
The machine sits there doing nothing while I hear a faint mechanical clicking....as if it can't figure out where to start.
Though this worries me (having heard the stories) I can't help but think it's an issue with this particular label and the pressing plant they use because all other discs work fine.

Have never touched the original firmware. Would an update now perhaps alleviate these problems?
I've never been sure exactly what these updates do other than deal with issues pertaining to specific DVDs.


And....when discussing audio sound quality in comparing the Denon with Oppo 83 and 83SE, where does the Pioneer DV-79AVi fit into the mix?
Is it a capable performer or does it lag behind?

I'll second the other recommendations for cleaning the lens.

My 3930 was dropping out and stopping during CD playback, but had no trouble with SACDs. Cleaning the lens was the trick. I used pure methanol and cotton swabs. Pure ethanol or isopropanol will also work, and don't worry if it has a small percentage of water. You can get 91% isopropanol from most pharmacies. What I would avoid is denatured alcohol, since the denaturant can be an aggressive solvent like acetone. Also, I would not use "rubbing alcohol", because it can contain additives such as fragrance.

I'll have to disagree with John B. about the use of spray duster alone. Spray duster can and often does leave a thin film on optics especially if you hold the nozzle close to the surface, which is the natural thing to do when you're trying to blast away dust. I used to see this in grad school when people would try to clean laser optics with canned duster. You could really see the film left behind on laser mirrors just by holding them to light at an angle. On the other hand, you could use spray duster to do a first cleaning on a really dusty lens, and then follow that with an alcohol cleaning. This minimizes the chance of scratching the lens.

@WestCoastD-

I don't have images, but here's a written description. To take apart your player, you'll have to remove three covers: outer, inner, and drive mechanism. The drive mechanism cover is the one with the laser warning label. Once the covers are off, I recommend powering on the unit, opening the tray, then unplugging the player to shut it off with the tray left out in order to keep it out of the way. Of course, keep your hands away from the electronics and power supply especially while it's plugged in. After unplugging the power cord, the optical block will be parked toward the front near the disc spindle, and will be partially blocked by the disc tray. Use a small screwdriver to catch the block by one of its guides (the parts of the block that ride on the metal rails) and gently pull it back toward the opening behind the tray. If your lens is really dusty, try a couple quick sprays of canned duster first, as mentioned above. Wet a swab with alcohol (wet, but not dripping). Clean the lens *gently*; you'll see that the lens is suspended by fine wires, so use a light touch while cleaning. You can use a dry swab to *gently* dab up any excess liquid. Give it a few minutes to dry before reassembling and applying power. When I do this procedure, I reinitialize the unit from the front panel just in case plugging and unplugging it corrupted any stored data. This will set the unit to default, so remember to set it back up again the way you had it.

Cheers,

Andrew



I'd like to say a big thanks to Andrew for the detailed intstructions on how to get at the DVD lens. They were a big help and really speeded up the process, rather than going in blind.

THANKS ANDREW!!!!!! :):):)

@WestCoastD- I don't have images, but here's a written descriptionyes, thanks for this detailed instruction on cleaning the lens

I finally took my early DVD-3930ci (first customer delivery in my area in Oct. '06) into my local Denon-authorized shop after living with the same issues as many other posters (occasional failure to load/recognize brand new disks, agonizingly slow loading/seeking w/ clicking & loud seeking, chattering/vibrating on closing tray, etc.) for the past several years. Issues first started just a month or two after 1Y Warranty expiration.

Estimate has come back as $298 for a $183 "DVD Mechanism" (plus labor.) That seems excessive to sink into a 4+ YO SD/non-BluRay player, regardless of the 3930's superb audio & SD DVD image quality.

Skimming this thread, and michidragon's posts on the 'Denon 3910 Owners Thread' (post # 7361, can't post link as I am new member!), it seems these issues are often (?) resolved by replacing just the laser pickup (Sanyo HF-HD65, $23.75 incl. S&H on EBay) rather than the entire DVD Mechanism.

So I guess I'm looking for anecdotal advise/experiences with replacing just the laser instead of the entire DVD Mechanism. Anyone done this (either DIY or at a shop) and not had the issue resolved?

aTdHvAaNnKcSe

- z

romansz, check post 4195. I would do just the laser. You should find it cheaper on ebay, I just bought 2 for $10 each, my 2930 is starting to act up again so for that price I bought 2. Search for SF-HD65 laser and you'll get a bunch of hits for cheaper. If your mechanism is the same as the pics, you might be able to get that for as little as $25. The complete mechanism is different for the 2930 than what's shown there, don't know about the 3930.

It's really pretty easy to change on your own. Hope this helps.

Norm

i have the DVD-2930CI, how do i enable subtitles? when i press the button to access it, it says Off.. and i know the DVD has subtitles

i have the DVD-2930CI, how do i enable subtitles? when i press the button to access it, it says Off.. and i know the DVD has subtitles

Press the button again?
This feature doesn't always work with all DVDs regardless of the player.

i have the DVD-2930CI, how do i enable subtitles? when i press the button to access it, it says Off.. and i know the DVD has subtitles

You must use the up and down arrows to select between the subtitles available.

i have the DVD-2930CI, how do i enable subtitles? when i press the button to access it, it says Off.. and i know the DVD has subtitles

You probably need to activate the subtitles in the disc's menu before starting playback.

In my experience, unlike Blu-ray you cannot turn them on "on the fly" by pressing the subtitle button on the remote while the movie is playing.

A friend is selling this cheap 2930 for 39 dollars. The reason for such low price is that it doesn't power up, the only light that comes on is the Denon Link one and that's it, now my question is does it make sense to buy it and have it fixed??? or you guys suspect it might have some major failure that the cost of fixing would outweigh the cost of buying a brand new one???. I got the same player for SACD/DVDA only but I'm not sure what to replace it with when it finally bites the dust (It's connected to a Denon 3808 via Denon Link) that's why I'd like to have a spare one.

A friend is selling this cheap 2930 for 39 dollars. The reason for such low price is that it doesn't power up, does it make sense to buy it and have it fixed???hard to say what specifically is the problem (burnt-out power supply? etc.,...), or how much it will cost to repair.

I would just wait around and get one of these (seriously):
http://usa.denon.com/US/Product/Pages/Product-Detail.aspx?Catid=fb911101-2934-48a0-9526-070f5d35b4eb&SubId=&ProductId=77901c35-2bc7-46ac-9bb4-ce29a6f55328

Thanks WestCoastD, that player looks great, too bad it doesn't have DenonLink which is one of the features I like about the 2930/3930. The other Denon players are just too expensive:(.

Let's say it's the power supply that failed, is it too expensive to replace/fix????.

Thanks WestCoastD, that player looks great, too bad it doesn't have DenonLink which is one of the features I like about the 2930/3930. The other Denon players are just too expensive:(.

Let's say it's the power supply that failed, is it too expensive to replace/fix????.have no idea what power-supply replacement would cost. I've spent a significant amount servicing my DVD-3930CI a few times- mostly for laser and related hardware replacement, it was like $300.00 each time. Despite a little anger I feel it has been worth it later, my unit has performed beautifully (knock-on-wood).

So I would think whatever the problem is with the DVD-2930CI it may easily cost $300.00-plus to service, just speculating (maybe it could be very cheap? who knows?)

Therefore, if I were seriously considering a DVD-2930CI I would opt for a DVD-3930CI instead. There are a few refurbished/used/like-new units out there:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B000JHE9ZQ/ref=dp_olp_used?ie=UTF8&condition=used
http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B000JHE9ZQ/ref=dp_olp_refurbished?ie=UTF8&condition=refurbished

I think a solid refurbished unit could be a good investment. I juust love my DVD-3930CI, it's been very hard to replace it for something else- even my Oppo BDP-83SE (seriously). Why spend, say, $200.00 to $400.00 on a DVD-2930CI when you can have a DVD-3930CI?

I've always wanted to get the 3930....it's built like a tank:cool:. You're right, I should just buy one on good working condition. Thanks for the links:)

After a few missteps, I also finally managed to score great (knock-on-wood) 3930ci :D

Fantastic audio and very good DVD player for the money. Caupina, check audiogon too. That's where I got mine.

Congratulations giedrys!!!. I've been keeping an eye on Audiogon everyday with no luck, just a bunch of 3910 and 2910, and a modded 2930 from the Upgrade Company for 700 dollars:eek:....no way. I wonder if the 3910 would make a good investment:confused:...I just need it to play my SACD/DVDA connected via DenonLink to the 3808...what do you guys think???

You definitely need patience on agon. It took me a few months(not checking everyday though) to get one.

I wonder if the 3910 would make a good investment:confused:...I just need it to play my SACD/DVDA connected via DenonLink to the 3808...what do you guys think???the DVD-3910CI was the predecessor to the DVD-3930CI, it was a good player as well. However I would prefer the DVD-3930CI, it has improved video over the DVD-3910CI and some other updates/additions. Get the newer model- period.............

I recently posted my good service from my 3930 so it decided to make me wrong as usual. DVDs play fine. CDs play a fraction of a second or so then display "Press Play to Continue" and after a second or two we get another note then message, and on, and on. Multiple CDs tried.

I removed the unit and did the lens cleaning procedure posted on this thread. I played a CD with the unit on a bench and all was well for 30 seconds. I reinstalled it and we are back to where we started. I did a unit reset and redid setup. No effect.

If it does DVDs without problems could it be the laser? Or is it repair time? Any ideas?

I recently posted my good service from my 3930 so it decided to make me wrong as usual. DVDs play fine. CDs play a fraction of a second or so then display "Press Play to Continue" and after a second or two we get another note then message, and on, and on. Multiple CDs tried.

I removed the unit and did the lens cleaning procedure posted on this thread. I played a CD with the unit on a bench and all was well for 30 seconds. I reinstalled it and we are back to where we started. I did a unit reset and redid setup. No effect.

If it does DVDs without problems could it be the laser? Or is it repair time? Any ideas?sorry to hear about that. This player (DVD-3930CI) really does have some un-expected behavior. My unit has been back to factory three times for service (a few years back at this point), mostly for laser/assembly and lens related issues. Each time it cost me like $300.00 dollars. Although it has functioned fairly well now for over a year (knock-on-wood). I mostly use it to play CD's, SACD's and DVD-A's. I hardly ever play SD-DVD's on it (even though it does a spectacular job). But I do experience some random "freeze" behavior primarily with specific (RedBook) CD titles, don't know why?

It's hard for me to remove this unit from my rack, the sound quality is so beautiful (airy and spacial, natural).

I recently posted my good service from my 3930 so it decided to make me wrong as usual. DVDs play fine. CDs play a fraction of a second or so then display "Press Play to Continue" and after a second or two we get another note then message, and on, and on.


I listen to CDs via analog audio. I recently replaced a always-on HDMI switch with a VP that is on when needed. The problem playing CDs occurs when the VP is in standby and the 3930 HDMI is on.

So, when I decide to listen to a CD I must turn HDMI off and when I want to watch a DVD on the big screen I must turn HDMI on and at the desired resolution.

I hate people with better ideas like HDMI & CP. I hate even more people that can't program computers well enough to know that playing a CD via analog output does not require HDMI or copy protection activity.

I have another complain about 3930ci, it's not a glitch but more like missing feature.

I'm very much impressed by player's separate analog stereo outputs and its bass management capabilities. So I tweak the audio settings to my liking for listening to CD's via analog and the results are outstanding.

But once I decide to listen to something like mch DVD-A and switch to HDMI, all my analog audio settings are nullified and next time I have to start all over again.

Why there's no way to store audio settings like video? Or there is and I simply can't find how to do it?

But once I decide to listen to something like mch DVD-A and switch to HDMI, all my analog audio settings are nullified and next time I have to start all over again.

Why there's no way to store audio settings like video? Or there is and I simply can't find how to do it?Yeah, I know what you're talking about. I remember having to go back into audio menu's to re-set things to play something via-HDMI after listening to multi-channel analog settings for music (SACD/DVD-a). Can't remember if this can be configured permanently or not?

I hate even more people that can't program computers well enough to know that playing a CD via analog output does not require HDMI or copy protection activity.hmmm

A data point for those interested.
My 3930Ci was starting to not recognize some SACDs especially as it warmed up.
I replaced the laser head only, not the whole transport/transverse assembly,
and that helped a little with the SACDs (by the way I had approx 1000 hours on the CD laser and 1000 hours on the DVD laser), but now its having trouble reading some DVDs (so I guess laser alignment may be an issue since I didnt replace the whole tranverse), and now reading discs is getting increasingly worse at the unit warms up.
So I guess ordering the entire transport is next....

Nice thing is it only cost me $13 to try replacing the laser head alone.
The transverse is now about $125 shipped.

Pete

This may have been mentioned in this thread, but can you tell me how to check how many hours my 2930 has been in use? It has stopped reliably reading discs. I've tried cleaning the lens on it but that didn't help.

You have to enter the service menu to do it. I would suggest getting the service manual, which shows you how to do it for your model.
Not the greatest published instructions... but with some effort you can do it.

My 3930Ci was starting to not recognize some SACDs especially as it warmed up.

I replaced the laser head only, not the whole transport/transverse assembly,
and that helped a little with the SACDs (by the way I had approx 1000 hours on the CD laser and 1000 hours on the DVD laser), but now its having trouble reading some DVDs (so I guess laser alignment may be an issue since I didnt replace the whole tranverse), and now reading discs is getting increasingly worse at the unit warms up.

So I guess ordering the entire transport is next....

Nice thing is it only cost me $13 to try replacing the laser head alone.
The transverse is now about $125 shippedvery interesting, thanks.

Yeah, the DVD-3930CI seems to really struggle in this area- laser assy failure/alignment issues. I just send it to Denon factory service and let them swap-out the complete transverse assy. This way everything is replaced and re-aligned properly (hopefully)- $350.00

Good luck, let us know how it turned out.
I am starting to think about a follow-on unit for my stereo.
Seems keeping this unit serviceable may be a challenge or impossible in the future.

very interesting, thanks.

Yeah, the DVD-3930CI seems to really struggle in this area- laser assy failure/alignment issues. I just send it to Denon factory service and let them swap-out the complete transverse assy. This way everything is replaced and re-aligned properly (hopefully)- $350.00

Ouch. That's more than I paid for entire 3930ci in good condition(knock on wood) a few months back. But I guess this player is really worth that and more.

Ouch. That's more than I paid for entire 3930ci in good condition(knock on wood) a few months back. But I guess this player is really worth that and more.yeah, I think it's worth it to have a good sounding player (with exceptional SD-DVD capability).

Check out Dakmart.com, they sell refurbs of the 2930 and 3930. I picked one up about a month ago. Looks good, haven't gotten around to installing it yet, but looking forward to using it.

yeah, I think it's worth it to have a good sounding player (with exceptional SD-DVD capability).

Apparently it holds its own against Oppo 95 pretty well.

Apparently it holds its own against Oppo 95 pretty well.I'm dying (or "living") to find out for myself (I may get a BDP-95 soon, we'll see)

Hi,

I contacted my local Denon repairer yesterday to get a quote on upgrading the Realta firmware in my 3930 from IP 060802 to 080102. They told me it would cost AUD$220, plus freight from Tasmania to Sydney which is approx another $100 as they need to send it to Denon Australia as the local guys can't do it themselves. And then there's the 90 minute each-way cost of driving it to the repairer...

So before I go ahead and fork out $320+ (which is quite a bit on my budget, but I'm also waiting to hear back on a 2nd quote), I'd like to know from other 3930 owners who have had the upgrade done, how much did it cost and just how much improvement does it make to the PQ, do you consider it worthwhile for the cost?

Thanks!

Dwight

Edit: Contacted Denon Australia directly and they quoted $88 per hour for 2 hours, ie $176 (+ freight), that's somewhat cheaper than having it done via the local repairer for $220 (+ freight), and saves me the drive to the repairer too!

Is there a crossover setting for 2CH analog, with bass enhancement? I would like to select a 100hz high pass, so my subwoofers get everything below 100hz and the L/R gets everything above 100hz. I do that in my AVR, but if it can be done in the 3930, the signal stays analog going out to the AVR.

Can anyone with a 3930 confirm this?

Apparently it holds its own against Oppo 95 pretty well.

How did you confirm this?

How did you confirm this?

Read 95 thread.

Hi,

I contacted my local Denon repairer yesterday to get a quote on upgrading the Realta firmware in my 3930 from IP 060802 to 080102. They told me it would cost AUD$220, plus freight from Tasmania to Sydney which is approx another $100 as they need to send it to Denon Australia as the local guys can't do it themselves. And then there's the 90 minute each-way cost of driving it to the repairer...

So before I go ahead and fork out $320+ (which is quite a bit on my budget, but I'm also waiting to hear back on a 2nd quote), I'd like to know from other 3930 owners who have had the upgrade done, how much did it cost and just how much improvement does it make to the PQ, do you consider it worthwhile for the cost?

Thanks!

Dwight

Edit: Contacted Denon Australia directly and they quoted $88 per hour for 2 hours, ie $176 (+ freight), that's somewhat cheaper than having it done via the local repairer for $220 (+ freight), and saves me the drive to the repairer too!

So now they're charging for VP FW updates? And it takes 2 hours? :D

Is there a crossover setting for 2CH analog, with bass enhancement? I would like to select a 100hz high pass, so my subwoofers get everything below 100hz and the L/R gets everything above 100hz. I do that in my AVR, but if it can be done in the 3930, the signal stays analog going out to the AVR.

Can anyone with a 3930 confirm this?

There is. First, set HDMI audio setup to "2CH"

Then in audio setup section choose audio channel as "multi channel" instead of 2ch. Then highlight on "multi channel" choice and you'll be able to choose proper 2.1 setup and crossover settings.

Problem is, there's no way to permanently store these settings. Next time if you want to play multi ch disc via HDMI(you will need to revert HDMI audio setting to multi channel), all those adjustments will be deleted.

Unless I'm doing something wrong, this is very lame.


I've experimented quite a lot with 3930ci DAC's and bass management vs. Denon 3310ci receiver's and I prefer 3930ci analog a lot.
But there's a lot of controversy about how these new receivers handle analog input signals and are they're staying analog even when you use pure direct mode.

There is. First, set HDMI audio setup to "2CH"

Then in audio setup section choose audio channel as "multi channel" instead of 2ch. Then highlight on "multi channel" choice and you'll be able to choose proper 2.1 setup and crossover settings.

Problem is, there's no way to permanently store these settings. Next time if you want to play multi ch disc via HDMI(you will need to revert HDMI audio setting to multi channel), all those adjustments will be deleted.

Unless I'm doing something wrong, this is very lame.


I've experimented quite a lot with 3930ci DAC's and bass management vs. Denon 3310ci receiver's and I prefer 3930ci analog a lot.
But there's a lot of controversy about how these new receivers handle analog input signals and are they're staying analog even when you use pure direct mode.

I found a thread from a few years back, in the thread a second level Denon support person stated that if your Denon AVR is in Direct or Pure Direct mode, with Audyssey off, the analog signal stays in the analog domain. I purchased a 3930 recently on Audiogon, 9/10 in excellent condition. I plan on turning HDMI off, and use the 2CH and MCH analog outs for Redbook CD, SACD, and DVD-A only. I have an OPPO 83SE, and will initially do an A/B comparison for the best sound on 2CH analog. The OPPO 95, appears to sound very close to the 83SE, so I can't justify that purchase. Since the specs for the Denon 2012UD, are just out, and the price is the same as the OPPO 95, I may purchase the 2012UD, sell the OPPO 83SE, and compare the 2012UD with the Denon 3930 for sound. If the sound in the two Denon players is the same, and they should be, (DAC for 2012UD Burr Brown PCM1795, 32/192), I can then go to one player. The Denon 2012UD, may sound better than either the OPPO 83SE or the 95.

I don't have much trust in Denon reps, whichever level they might be at.

If you're not planning to go back to using HDMI on 3930ci then deletion of analog settings might not be a problem for you. To me, it all looks incredibly stupid that every time i change something in HDMI settings, analog audio setup is messed up. BTW, did those audio settings worked for you?

I don't think 2012UD well be able to compete with 3930ci or 95 in audio department. That's more like someday-to be-released Denon 40xx agenda.

I don't have much trust in Denon reps, whichever level they might be at.

I don't think 2012UD well be able to compete with 3930ci or 95 in audio department. That's more like someday-to be-released Denon 40xx agenda.

I have a Denon AVR, and I use the 2CH Analog input from my 83SE, Pure Direct mode with no Audyssey. There is a distinct quality using this mode versus HDMI, et al. I have had a conversation with Joe at Denon, New Jersey, their top support person, and I have no reason to doubt what I have been told, from what I hear. I am very happy with that part of my system.



I would not clam that the 2012UD, OPPO 95, or 3930CI is best or has the best sound. Only your ears, in your own system can tell you that, and that is what I plan on doing. I never go by what someone else claims! Everyone hears differently, and everyone's system is different than the next. You need to experience for yourself and decide.

Nobody's claiming anything. Didn't realize I still have to include "IMHO" every time i post something to make it clear. How can I even "claim" something if 2012UD is nothing but a vaporware at this point?

Seriously, this conversation is going nowhere. You asked about some settings, I tried to answer the best way I could about it and to get others engaged it this topic . But you choose to beat around the bush and talk about morals. Let's just drop it.

Nobody's claiming anything. Didn't realize I still have to include "IMHO" every time i post something to make it clear. How can I even "claim" something if 2012UD is nothing but a vaporware at this point?

Seriously, this conversation is going nowhere. You asked about some settings, I tried to answer the best way I could about it and to get others engaged it this topic . But you choose to beat around the bush and talk about morals. Let's just drop it.

Nuff said! Thanks for your help!

Good sound to you!

So now they're charging for VP FW updates? And it takes 2 hours? :D
Go back in this thread. Search Dutchman01. He has the firmware for the 3930CI. As always upgrade firmware at your own risk. It worked for me in the past.

So now they're charging for VP FW updates? And it takes 2 hours? :D

Maybe he's talking about the Realta chip update. I don't recall exactly what it fixed. (Something about macroblocking with PAL???) But the unit had to be returned to Denon for the upgrade.