I contacted my local Denon repairer yesterday to get a quote on upgrading the Realta firmware in my 3930 from IP 060802 to 080102. 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!yes, I would prefer to have the Denon factory shop perform the repair/upgrade, they probably have more hands-on experience and available parts to make it worth the effort

Since the specs for the Denon 2012UD, are just out. I'd like to 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)can't seem to find specs on new Denon 2012UD? Did'nt realize they were still employing Burr Brown PCM1795 model DAC's either? interesting

@ giedrys & maphiker: It is the realta firmware upgrade I'm enquiring about, see post #4738

@ WestCoastD: In both cases Denon Australia will be doing the upgrade, but my first quote was via the local repairer (who then sends the unit on to Denon Aus) but I then received the cheaper option of dealing directly with Denon Aus. So, if I do go ahead I'll deal directly with Denon.

I was just wondering if other 3930 owners would consider the improvements to be worth ~$300? What sort of improvements were noticed? Generally, I'm quite satisfied with the PQ of the 3930, so unless the improvements are quite noticeable I probably wont bother (also considering the risks of shipping the 3930 across the country and back again!).

I'd like to have some idea of what to expect from the update before deciding as maybe I'd be better off putting that $300 towards something else to upgrade my system, eg that 2012UD :~)

Thanks!

I was just wondering if other 3930 owners would consider the improvements to be worth ~$300? What sort of improvements were noticed? Generally, I'm quite satisfied with the PQ of the 3930, so unless the improvements are quite noticeable I probably wont bother (also considering the risks of shipping the 3930 across the country and back again!).



Good question.

Am also curious about what these upgrades are supposed to accomplish.

My 3930 is 4 years old now and I've never done an upgrade.
Denon Canada sent me a disc ages ago (3 years) but I never got around to loading it in and now I don't remember the process.

I was just wondering if other 3930 owners would consider the improvements to be worth ~$300? What sort of improvements were noticed? Generally, I'm quite satisfied with the PQ of the 3930, so unless the improvements are quite noticeable I probably wont bother (also considering the risks of shipping the 3930 across the country and back again!)I don't know anything in regards to what the Realta upgrade would provide for you. I also use Denon DVD-3800BDCI, never upgraded that Realta either, it performs exceptionally well for SD-DVD and BD sources. The same said for my Pioneer BDP-05FD, it has incredible SD-DVD PQ.

I use my DVD-3930CI primarily as a "music" player (CD's, SACD's, DVD-A's, HDCD's). I never watch any SD-DVD's on this player anymore, although it yileds exceptional SD-DVD picture quality.

When listening to 2CH music, does the 2CH analog to prepro from the 3930 sound exactly the same as the 2CH ouput of the 5.1 analog outs to prepro. I can't seem to tell the difference in doing an A/B listening test between the two. Opinions?

When listening to 2CH music, does the 2CH analog to prepro from the 3930 sound exactly the same as the 2CH ouput of the 5.1 analog outs to prepro. I can't seem to tell the difference in doing an A/B listening test between the two. Opinions?

Though I can't find documentation to prove it, IIRC the 3930 used one pair of DACs for the stereo outputs (PCM-1796), and three additional DACs for the 5.1 outs.

I believe the stereo DACs were higher up the Burr Brown model line than the 5.1 DACs so in theory the former should sound better. But in the real world maybe it's hard to tell the difference.

Though I can't find documentation to prove it, IIRC the 3930 used one pair of DACs for the stereo outputs (PCM-1796), and three additional DACs for the 5.1 outs.

I believe the stereo DACs were higher up the Burr Brown model line than the 5.1 DACs so in theory the former should sound better. But in the real world maybe it's hard to tell the difference.

There are 5 PCM-1796 DAC's, one each for 2CH L/R and the other three for the 5.1 outs. Can you tell the difference in sound on your 3930? Both the 2CH analog outs, and the L/R outs of the MCH sound very similar. I just wonder if the L/R MCH outs have input coming from the 2CH DAC's. Denon probably would not answer that question.

When listening to 2CH music, does the 2CH analog to prepro from the 3930 sound exactly the same as the 2CH ouput of the 5.1 analog outs to prepro. I can't seem to tell the difference in doing an A/B listening test between the two. Opinions?funny, I have my DVD-3930CI connected to my NAD T175 pre-pro using 5.1ch OUT's, 2ch stereo OUT's and digital-coax (using Monster M-Series interconnects).

I created three different sources in the T175 to reflect these modes of operation- "Denon 5.1" (for 5.1ch INP's), "Denon CD" (for 2ch stereo INP's), "Denon DigCoax" (for digital-coax INP).

Playing RedBook CD sources sound generally very good through "Denon CD" source (2ch stereo INP's).

But I've noticed that when I switch the T175 to "Denon 5.1" source (5.1ch INP's), and I play a RedBook CD, it automatically output's through FL and FR (stereo). The sound is incredible, seems to be very slightly more refined than "Denon CD" source, maybe noticeably more clean and spacial?

Though I can't find documentation to prove it, IIRC the 3930 used one pair of DACs for the stereo outputs (PCM-1796), and three additional DACs for the 5.1 outs.

I believe the stereo DACs were higher up the Burr Brown model line than the 5.1 DACs so in theory the former should sound better. But in the real world maybe it's hard to tell the differenceI believe the 2ch OUT's have dual-differential configuration. Technically the 2ch OUT's should have better sound characteristic than 5.1ch multi-channel OUT's, but may be too difficult to discern, I don't know? Guess it depends on how good system components are.
http://usa.denon.com/DocumentMaster/US/DVD-3930CILit.pdf

The OpAmps used on those analog outputs are just lame. Possible part of the japanase culture, their engineers are still deploying BA15218 for the I/V stage and filter stage in 5.1 section and same BA15218 for I/V and NJM2068 for the filter stage in the 2channel mix stage. Those where good 20 years ago but is just unacceptable in a modern device that is sold for what is sold...
There are far better options today - LM4562, AD8599, OPA2211 to name a few dual ones.
And, in the 3930, the mix 2 ch path has two DAC (PCM1796) (one per channel, mono mode). 5.1 stage has same DAC's in stereo mode - one per pair of channels. There are other improvements in the capacitors used for coupling of the output - way better solution in the 2 ch mix path.

The OpAmps used on those analog outputs are just lame. Possible part of the japanase culture, their engineers are still deploying BA15218 for the I/V stage and filter stage in 5.1 section and same BA15218 for I/V and NJM2068 for the filter stage in the 2channel mix stage. Those where good 20 years ago but is just unacceptable in a modern device that is sold for what is sold...
There are far better options today - LM4562, AD8599, OPA2211 to name a few dual ones.
And, in the 3930, the mix 2 ch path has two DAC (PCM1796) (one per channel, mono mode). 5.1 stage has same DAC's in stereo mode - one per pair of channels. There are other inprovements in the capacitors used for copling of the output - way better solution in the 2 ch mix path.

Do you know where to get the OpAmps upgraded to one that you list above?

You can get them sometimes as samples from their manufacturers (limited number) or order them directly from there - they have links to their authorized distribuitors. Just Google the cip name...
Replacing them require some SMD work. I did it with Chip Quick de-solder (they have samples too) and desolder wick from Radioshack.

You can get them sometimes as samples from their manufacturers (limited number) or order them directly from there - they have links to their authorized distribuitors. Just Google the cip name...
Replacing them require some SMD work. I did it with Chip Quick de-solder (they have samples too) and desolder wick from Radioshack.

What type of sonic improvements were gained by changing these op amps?

My impressions: Improved soundstage, clarity and better dynamics in the higher end, analog LP feeling from SACD's and even from some good mastered HDCD's but with darker, less noisy background. But without a proper A-B comparation, I cannot say more.

Lame or not, stock or modded(call me skeptic when it comes to modded audio equipment), I don't know better sounding universal player for <$500, new or used.

Correct, those Denons have been built with a well-thought audio path. The only week point IMO is using those "second tier" OpAmps and using cheaper capacitors on the 5.1 output compared to the stereo mix one -even those are fairly good.
All in all, the sound is above other "universal" players, even in stock form. This also because of the processing in the audio DSP - AL24 Processing Plus - that upsamples and reclocks the CD signal.

OK... Looks like bad time came. I had my 3930ci for almost 2 years. Bought refurbished from Dakmart.com. It has latest firmware.
But, a few months ago it started to skips on regular CDs. Laser assembly has been replaced. It worked for month and then same problem plus after warming up it freezes on DVDs. At this point entire transport mechanism has been replaced. Another month and back to same problem. Also, I guess it is worth to mention that I had terrible experience with handshake problem, resolved with HDMI Detective (small box connected between devices). So, I am done with Denon . Oppo 95 on its way…

My dad just got a 2930 and its connected by Denon Link to AVP-A1HDA. Has anyone had trouble in particular with the Dark Side Of The Moon SACD. It plays fine in the Oppo but the 2930 only plays the CD layer. Other SACDs like Brothers In Arms work fine.

Sorry for the obvious question but, did you try selecting the SACD layer via the remote?

I have those exact two SACD's, and both play the SACD layers (Multi and stereo) via DLIII.
I have DVD-2930 connected to AVR-3805 via the original Denon DLIII cable (I think a CAT5E patchord will work too, but I didn't feel like messing behind the receiver and player to test).

This was a common problem with the early releases of the 2930 & 3930 firmware. Search this thread to find out how to check revision and get latest one.

Ah, in my case I got the latest firmware from Denon US, so it might made a difference...
GEN8283-F_A15

Just bought a Samsung ln55c630. Great pq on HD content over cable (Cablevision) with just component cables. However, tried couple of sd dvds (Phil Collins concert, Apollo 13) and picture quality was poor on the concert and awful on Apollo 13. Have a 3930ci. (pq was very good to excellent on my just replaced old Sony XBR 40" CRT.) I have the 3930 directly connected to TV with both component and HDMI. Both stink (plus I have a lip sync problem when using HDMI. Audio goes thru Sunfire pre/pro).

The Denon should do much better than this, and the Samsung is supposed to do a very good job with standard def (supposedly has a very good upscaler?).

Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks...

The Denon should do much better than this, and the Samsung is supposed to do a very good job with standard def (supposedly has a very good upscaler?).
Sounds like you are letting the Samsung TV to do the upscalling, instead of the player. Switch the upscalling on in the player menu.
Samsung TV doesn't have a special cip for upscallling, just an average one.

The cable box probably does the upscalling for the SD programs...

I will recheck it, but since I'm using HDMI, there is a button on remote called "HDMI format" which seems to select output from 480i all the way up to 1080p. I assume that, by changing the output I am also changing whether the Denon is doing the scaling (by outputting at 720-1080), or the Samsung is doing the scaling (by outputting at 480i). Please confirm or correct me on this. Also, just for FYI, I have the 3930ci hooked up both with component and HDMI. No diff in pq. I also have Netflix wirelessly streaming to xbox which is connected to Tv via HDMI. While xbox games look great, the Netflix movies are absolutely horrid pq. Gueesing that may be more of a bandwidth problem though.

So if pq is bad regardless what is scaling, any guesses on whether it's the DVD player or the TV?

Makes no difference. Pretty disgusted right about now. Watching std def dvds on my sony xbr 40 crt used to be a reat treat via my old pioneer dv47a and this denon 3930ci (though the pio was better). Picture was so sharp and clear. I just can't believe that this is what SD content has to look like now.

Welcome to LCD HD world...?
I still have to see a LCD TV to rise to CRT quality on SD. Cannot imagine how a HD CRT would look tose days with HD signal (there where a few Sony HD trinitron "fine pitch" in stores at some point in the beginig of HD era).
Myself have a Polaroid LCD bought 2 years ago... I got used meanwhile.

I will recheck it, but since I'm using HDMI, there is a button on remote called "HDMI format" which seems to select output from 480i all the way up to 1080p. I assume that, by changing the output I am also changing whether the Denon is doing the scaling (by outputting at 720-1080), or the Samsung is doing the scaling (by outputting at 480i). Please confirm or correct me on this. Also, just for FYI, I have the 3930ci hooked up both with component and HDMI.

So if pq is bad regardless what is scaling, any guesses on whether it's the DVD player or the TV?

I would say the TV. You are correct about the effect of the HDMI format setting.

Until very recently I used 1080P from my 3930 to my Ruby PJ. Picture quality was much better than I had seen with other DVD players and the PJ doing the scaling.

I recently put in a Lumagen XS and now do 480i DVD to VP and 1080P VP to projector for a slightly better yet picture.

Here's the strange thing. There does not seem to be ANY difference in picture quality whether I output 480, 720, or 1080 from DVD to TV, and no diff if it gets there via component or HDMI. It's almost as if the TV is totally unresponsive and indifferent to any input that isn't true HD!

ERASED due to D&M Holding (Japan) greed...
Service manuals are their copyright, but my post here was my copyright.

Sonic67, very nice! Thanks for all the trouble of taking the pictures and posting. How old was your 2930?

Bought it on 10/22/2009 (sale at Vann's). Manufacture date July 2007. Was't reading anymore the burned CD's (except the ones labeled "Music CD"). All was good on DVD's...
Curent wasn't increased (manual says to replace it at over 150% from initial curent. I was at 115%.
The new laser has higher curent set from factory - 42mA versus 32mA the original one...
I am curious to see how long this 13$ laser will last. And I just bought two more for 17$ (both) now on eBay.

PS: I have older (Nov 2005) Denon DVD-2910 that has a Hitachi HOP-1200R laser and that one is still working (as it should).

I am curious to see how long this 13$ laser will last. And I just bought two more for 17$ (both) now on eBay.

PS: I have older (Nov 2005) Denon DVD-2910 that has a Hitachi HOP-1200R laser and that one is still working (as it should).thanks for all your efforts showing details on laser replacement. I am curious as well how long your $13.00 laser will last:)

My wife uses the player every week day for some home school related DVD's, so yes, the player sees some "action".

Sonic67, very nice! Thanks for all the trouble of taking the pictures and posting. How old was your 2930?

Bought it on 10/22/2009 (sale at Vann's). Manufacture date July 2007. Was't reading anymore the burned CD's (except the ones labeled "Music CD"). All was good on DVD's...
Curent wasn't increased (manual says to replace it at over 150% from initial curent. I was at 115%.
The new laser has higher curent set from factory - 42mA versus 32mA the original one...
I am curious to see how long this 13$ laser will last. And I just bought two more for 17$ (both) now on eBay.

PS: I have older (Nov 2005) Denon DVD-2910 that has a Hitachi HOP-1200R laser and that one is still working (as it should).


FWIW I got my Denon 2930CI player ($850 list?) roughly 18 months ago at deep discount of roughly $200 when all the big manufacturers were dumping their existing DVD universal player stock.

THE best deal ever on a top quality player that I've yet got, and it continues to be my number 1 universal disc player.

But my purchase of a Denon 5910CI player ($4k list) at $1k is a close 2nd.

IMO sound quality improvement has gotten to be a slow thing thing this past 10 or 20 years. And odds are that Blu Ray is not going to solve that.

Cheers

Don't know if anyone is still on this thread but I have a question.
I just got a new Denon 3930ci and I love the picture but I have getting noise in the image. I see mostly in the black areas of the video. I looks like breakup like you would see in an old VCR. Its not the DVD because I tried it in my other player. Anyone know how to fix? I have the NR turned on but it doesn't seem to help.

Don't know if anyone is still on this thread but I have a question.
I just got a new Denon 3930ci and I love the picture but I have getting noise in the image. I see mostly in the black areas of the video. I looks like breakup like you would see in an old VCR. Its not the DVD because I tried it in my other player. Anyone know how to fix? I have the NR turned on but it doesn't seem to help.

How are you connected to your display? Component video? HDMI?

Try a different video cable, even if it's HDMI. Really.

When I've had issues with HDMI it's usually shown up as noise in the black areas of the video.

Honestly the same is true for component (or for that matter S) video.

How are you connected to your display? Component video? HDMI?

Try a different video cable, even if it's HDMI. Really.

When I've had issues with HDMI it's usually shown up as noise in the black areas of the video.

Honestly the same is true for component (or for that matter S) video.

I am hooked up HDMI but when I put the same DVD into my other player the noise if gone.
However I tried another DVD (LOTR) with the Denon and there was no noise in the black areas. So it must have been the first DVD (5th Element-Superbit).
Don't know why it would only act up on that one DVD. But the good news is its the DVD and not the 3930ci.
My other DVD player is an Oppo93 and this 3930ci beats it on SD PQ.

For those of you who have owned the 3930ci over the past 3 or 4 years, I am curious how your unit is holding up. I just bought a new in the box Denon 3930ci and a little nervous about how long an older player will last....even though it is new it is really not having been setting in a box for the last few years.
If you don't mind I would like to get your experiences with the durability of the Dvd player.

The Denon's quality is rather suspect... A number of owners are having issues where the laser assembly seems to go bad. I bought a 3930CI when it was first released. The display would go wonky on me right out of the box. Turned out it was a bad HQV processor which would act up when it got warm (the HQV video processor is a known issue with Onkyo receivers. They use a similar processor and the HDMI boards would go bad after a year or two as the excessive heat would dry out nearby capacitors).

A few months later, the player would refuse to play back movies. It turned out to be a bad laser assembly. It took two months to repair by Denon. Another few months later the laser assembly failed again right before the warranty expired. The laser assembly costs a few hundred dollars from Denon but a number of users have been able to replace the laser itself in the assembly for a nominal sum.

To be frank, for an expensive player, I find the Denon to be unreliable (I also had a Denon receiver to match the player which would not work with current audio codecs. The audio signal would be digital noise as the signal overloaded the decoders in the receiver. The new codecs are supposed to be downmixed to the older DTS\DD formats) for the price. Their quality seems to have been suspect ever since they moved manufacturing to China instead of Japan.

What really deters me from buying another is that their warranty is a substandard one year period (most high-end warranties are two or five years long).

My 3930ci has been in service for 4.5 years. It has played DVDs several hundred times, CDs 1-3 hundred times. And a few SACDs. No repairs. Worked as good as new last night.

I am hooked up HDMI but when I put the same DVD into my other player the noise if gone.
However I tried another DVD (LOTR) with the Denon and there was no noise in the black areas. So it must have been the first DVD (5th Element-Superbit).
Don't know why it would only act up on that one DVD. But the good news is its the DVD and not the 3930ci.
My other DVD player is an Oppo93 and this 3930ci beats it on SD PQ.

Try to adjust "picture quality" adjust#3 setting called "setup level"(page 35 on manual). Makes a big difference in black levels. Maybe that will help.

My 3930ci has been in service for 4.5 years. It has played DVDs several hundred times, CDs 1-3 hundred times. And a few SACDs. No repairs. Worked as good as new last night.

Thanks....I hope mine will hold up like yours.

The Denon's quality is rather suspect... A number of owners are having issues where the laser assembly seems to go bad. I bought a 3930CI when it was first released. The display would go wonky on me right out of the box. Turned out it was a bad HQV processor which would act up when it got warm (the HQV video processor is a known issue with Onkyo receivers. They use a similar processor and the HDMI boards would go bad after a year or two as the excessive heat would dry out nearby capacitors).

A few months later, the player would refuse to play back movies. It turned out to be a bad laser assembly. It took two months to repair by Denon. Another few months later the laser assembly failed again right before the warranty expired. The laser assembly costs a few hundred dollars from Denon but a number of users have been able to replace the laser itself in the assembly for a nominal sum.

To be frank, for an expensive player, I find the Denon to be unreliable (I also had a Denon receiver to match the player which would not work with current audio codecs. The audio signal would be digital noise as the signal overloaded the decoders in the receiver. The new codecs are supposed to be downmixed to the older DTS\DD formats) for the price. Their quality seems to have been suspect ever since they moved manufacturing to China instead of Japan.

What really deters me from buying another is that their warranty is a substandard one year period (most high-end warranties are two or five years long).

Yes, I don't understand why they only offer a one year warranty.
My Sony E5000ES Blu-ray has a 5 year warranty. Not reassuring.

Replaced the Sanyo SD-HD65 laser in a DVD-2930 and though to post here a how-to and some pics.

5. Turn over the player and remove the bottom metalic plate (lots of screws, holding two identical plates).
6. There are two small screws, marked in my pics. Remove them.

7. Disconnect the two cables shown in my pics. Pics shows the loader removed already, the connectors are accesible from under the player.The flat cable (you can see it in the above picture, I forgot to circle it) require that you to pull first the edge of the connector for release.

8. Turn the player back in normal position. There are 4 screws (#1 Phillips head) that are holding the loader. I did marke them on my pics. Remove the screws.


...

10. "Jiggle" the loader out from the player.
Now you need to release the tray to move it back and forth and expose the laser pick up assambly. Push the bottom unlocking plastic bar in the direction shown in my pic.

11. Unscrew and remove the bar holding the round metal sliders. Pull them out from the opposite holders. Gently remove the laser pick-up assambly. The gears are fragile! Hold on to the springs from the back side!

12. Place the new laser pick-up assambly on the sliders.
13. Reinstall. When screws and connectors are back in place (not before), take a solder gun and some desolder wick and remove the short-circuit protective bubble shown in my pics. Don't forget to push back the connector latch!

14. Put the top and bottom covers back. Plug back the power cord. Using the service manual instructions reset the laser curent value to the new one and zero the "laser on" timer.
15. Enjoy!

I have done this myself and am still running into one problem. I can't "decode" the service manual instructions to update the "current value" for the new head, and frankly don't even know where to look on the head for the new value.

The player does in fact now play DVDs fine, but still doesn't recognize CDs. I saw in someone else's instructions that aside from the current value, he mentions "initializing" the player and his claim was that if you didn't initialize it, the player would still not play CDs (as is the symptom I am experiencing). I understand it may still play SuperAudio CDs, but I have none, so I'm handicapped at the moment.

Your instructions are both thorough and helpful (wish I'd seen them earlier), but I might add that I didn't need to remove the entire player assembly. Instead, I ejected the tray and then disconnected power, leaving the tray in the fully open position. This gave me access to the entire rail assembly from above, and I worked completely from the top inside the player.

What I did do wrong the first time is to crack loose one of the hex screws and take it out, the one on the rail that goes through the head in two spots - the wide end or bottom in your images. Fortunately the threadlock was visible on both the screw and bracket, and I was able to place the screw back in its original position.

Also, you don't actually need to remove the other rail (the one on top at the narrow end of the head) since the head's narrow end has a slip-over guide rather than completely closed guides as the pair in the wide end have. Only the rail that goes through the white gear assembly and wide end of the head need be removed.

Back to my problem...

So, can anyone help me by describing the process of entering the new "current" value for the head, where I might find that value (there's two sets of numbers - one on the bottom and one on the curved side)? Also if there is something I was doing wrong to initialize, a little help here would be great as well.

Hopefully with an update to those numbers (and initialization), the player will come back to life completely. Otherwise, I'll be relegated to using it just for DVDs and I'll have to keep using my Pioneer DVL-909 Laserdisc player as a CD player!!

I have done this myself and am still running into one problem. I can't "decode" the service manual instructions to update the "current value" for the new head, and frankly don't even know where to look on the head for the new value.

Back to my problem...

So, can anyone help me by describing the process of entering the new "current" value for the head, where I might find that value (there's two sets of numbers - one on the bottom and one on the curved side)? Also if there is something I was doing wrong to initialize, a little help here would be great as well.

Hopefully with an update to those numbers (and initialization), the player will come back to life completely. Otherwise, I'll be relegated to using it just for DVDs and I'll have to keep using my Pioneer DVL-909 Laserdisc player as a CD player!!

The numbers on the head, as you call it, have nothing to do with the "current value" and "initial value." These are the "current," as in Ohm's Law (milli amps), that the laser is pulling. The procedure to reset these values is in the service menu although it is in broken english. I was able to work through the procedure. You need to carefully read the instructions in the service manual.
To reinitialize the unit:

1. Turn off the player with the ON/off button (not the standby)

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

3. The player should now say INITIALIZE again....turn off player....DONE

4. Now set up the player again with your custom settings.

Be sure to have the player connected to a TV with a S-video or composite connection because the reinitialize process will turn off the HDMI output.

PM me and I may be able to help you a little more, but, frankly, if you can't understand the service manual you shouldn't be messing with these settings because you risk breaking the unit.

The numbers on the head, as you call it, have nothing to do with the "current value" and "initial value." These are the "current," as in Ohm's Law (milli amps), that the laser is pulling. The procedure to reset these values is in the service menu although it is in broken english. I was able to work through the procedure. You need to carefully read the instructions in the service manual.
To reinitialize the unit:

1. Turn off the player with the ON/off button (not the standby)

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

3. The player should now say INITIALIZE again....turn off player....DONE

4. Now set up the player again with your custom settings.

Be sure to have the player connected to a TV with a S-video or composite connection because the reinitialize process will turn off the HDMI output.

PM me and I may be able to help you a little more, but, frankly, if you can't understand the service manual you shouldn't be messing with these settings because you risk breaking the unit.

Hello I'm about to change the laser head on my 2930 as well (we have Denons crap laser heads here in Australia as well!!!) and was wondering if these current settings really need changing? Or will reininitializing the unit be enough for it to work, also where can one find the "service manual" or is it the "service menu" of the player that one needs to get into. How does one get into the service menu? Thanks in advance for any assistance/info

See the following for the service manual: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=17513490#post17513490
The service manual will tell you how to change the settings. The instructions are not clear and will take some patience to wade through.
You raise a good question. It may not be necessary to change these settings.
Let us know how you make out.

The numbers on the head, as you call it, have nothing to do with the "current value" and "initial value." These are the "current," as in Ohm's Law (milli amps), that the laser is pulling. The procedure to reset these values is in the service menu although it is in broken english. I was able to work through the procedure. You need to carefully read the instructions in the service manual.
To reinitialize the unit:

1. Turn off the player with the ON/off button (not the standby)

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

3. The player should now say INITIALIZE again....turn off player....DONE

4. Now set up the player again with your custom settings.

Be sure to have the player connected to a TV with a S-video or composite connection because the reinitialize process will turn off the HDMI output.

PM me and I may be able to help you a little more, but, frankly, if you can't understand the service manual you shouldn't be messing with these settings because you risk breaking the unit.

OK, I did figure out how to change the values for both the DVD and CD settings. It was a bit tricky but I was successful as when I went back in to check, they were the values that I had set. For those who are interested, the values are first determined by the player itself when you go to the proper menu. Once the values (which change a few times initially) stabilize, you then set them and the saved value reverts to the one determined by the player.

For me, I then initialized the player as instructed, however it still won't play CDs. I am stuck at this point, but I will simply use it as a DVD player and continue to use my Pioneer DVL-909 as the CD player in my system. I don't have any SuperAudio CDs so I suppose I am not missing much without being able to play CDs on the 2930.

If anyone else has any further suggestions about how to resolve this issue and wants to chime in, go ahead. I will post step by step instructions on how to read and set the current values for the DVD and CD lasers in a future post.

Thanks.

OK, I did figure out how to change the values for both the DVD and CD settings. It was a bit tricky but I was successful as when I went back in to check, they were the values that I had set.

If anyone else has any further suggestions about how to resolve this issue and wants to chime in, go ahead. I will post step by step instructions on how to read and set the current values for the DVD and CD lasers in a future post.

Thanks.

Nice work! Too bad about the CDs. You may need to replace the entire traverse unit. But I don't recommend it because, the last I checked, the traverse unit was about $90.
If you can translate the instructions on changing values to good english, I will salute you. :D

Nice work! Too bad about the CDs. You may need to replace the entire traverse unit. But I don't recommend it because, the last I checked, the traverse unit was about $90.
If you can translate the instructions on changing values to good english, I will salute you. :D

Well, considering I got the unit for free, and then bought the head, perhaps an investment into the traverse isn't so big a deal. I'll have to give it some thought. I'll post the instructions soon. I haven't reassembled the case yet, but plan to do so sometime this week. When I do, I'll run the process again and write down the steps in plain English.

When I do, I'll run the process again and write down the steps in plain English.
This wasn't plain english I guess :D:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=20272940#post20272940

This wasn't plain english I guess :D:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=20272940#post20272940

SoNic67, you are definitely The Man. However, we were talking about "plain english" instructions on navigating the service menu and resetting the laser current, etc. Want to give it a try? :D

The procedure is not rocket science, but long to post here. You need the Service Manual that you can get free here (http://elektrotanya.com/denon_dvd-2930_dvd-2930ci.pdf/download.html).

This wasn't plain english I guess :D:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=20272940#post20272940

Yeah, SoNic67, no insult intended. Please don't misunderstand the comment. I came to you for help and you gave me what I needed to get the job done (well, done as far as I can get it to work).

Without you, I would likely have never understood or found the method that worked.

What the comment was regarding is the very poor English translation that the Service Manual has - there's nothing wrong with your English as far as I know. The method to accomplish the setting of the Current values is extremely vague and I really didn't understand the directions until I experimented a bit and "accidentally" landed on the proper method.

Of course, I also couldn't have done it without the manual and I found it for free as well. I found the manual for FREE at http://www.hifiengine.com/ (http://www.hifiengine.com/manuals/denon/dvd-2930.shtml).

The procedure is not rocket science, but long to post here. You need the Service Manual that you can get free here (http://elektrotanya.com/denon_dvd-2930_dvd-2930ci.pdf/download.html).

Tried your link and did "see" the manual, and could download a picture of the cover, but couldn't download the actual manual from there. However I did find it in High Resolution PDF HERE (http://www.hifiengine.com/) (http://www.hifiengine.com/manuals/denon/dvd-2930.shtml). This site has a nice archive of manuals and more - and it's totally free, but you do have to register (also free), in order to download. Their sister site, http://www.VinylEngine.com (or by the link labeled "VE" at the top of the HifiEngine page) is also extremely nice for those vinyl friendly people (like me...). I have found several other nice sites for free manuals (both owners' and service). I am putting together a resource listing for such sites. I'll try to get it uploaded soon (between earning a living and paying bills...LOL!)

Use Internet Explorer... It will let you DL two manuals per day.
If you still can't, I have one copy here (https://rapidshare.com/files/314114374/DVD-2930CI.zip).

PS: True, the english is not the best in those manuals, but for me was good enough.

The service manual will tell you how to change the settings. The instructions are not clear and will take some patience to wade through.
You raise a good question. It may not be necessary to change these settings.
Let us know how you make out.[/QUOTE]

So changed the laser head no problems 20 minute job, changed no settings and did not reinitialize unit. Unit works fine with dvds and cds but problem continues exactly as before, POS denon!!!!

The service manual will tell you how to change the settings. The instructions are not clear and will take some patience to wade through.
You raise a good question. It may not be necessary to change these settings.
Let us know how you make out.

So changed the laser head no problems 20 minute job, changed no settings and did not reinitialize unit. Unit works fine with dvds and cds but problem continues exactly as before, POS denon!!!!

What problems were/are you experiencing? I would at least try reinitializing the player.

What problems were/are you experiencing? I would at least try reinitializing the player.

Thanks. Player runs for a period (never constant) then just freezes for a split second then continues for a while then freezes again and so on, occasionally it will freeze for longer periods. Had it fixed under warranty for exact same problem and it lasted around 12 months. Repair invoice stated "Replaced dvd drive assembly" or something from memory. I will try reininitializing and feedback. My 10 year old Chinese "Nintaus" dvd player has never missed a beat and is still used today, and it would play a half chewed disc taken out of the dog kennel.:D

Thanks. Player runs for a period (never constant) then just freezes for a split second then continues for a while then freezes again and so on, occasionally it will freeze for longer periods. Had it fixed under warranty for exact same problem and it lasted around 12 months. Repair invoice stated "Replaced dvd drive assembly" or something from memory. I will try reininitializing and feedback. My 10 year old Chinese "Nintaus" dvd player has never missed a beat and is still used today, and it would play a half chewed disc taken out of the dog kennel.:D

Sorry to hear about your problem. Perhaps you have a problem unrelated to the laser. :(

My 10 year old Chinese "Nintaus" dvd player has never missed a beat and is still used today, and it would play a half chewed disc taken out of the dog kennel.:D
Well, you can try to replace the laser with a chinese one from eBay :) I have bought four of them, there are so cheap.

For those of you who have owned the 3930ci over the past 3 or 4 years, I am curious how your unit is holding up. I just bought a new in the box Denon 3930ci and a little nervous about how long an older player will last....even though it is new it is really not having been setting in a box for the last few years.
If you don't mind I would like to get your experiences with the durability of the Dvd player.

I bought a 3930CI when they were released.

The dealer's demo unit had serious problems, but mine has been trouble-free since day one and still plays (most) DVDs, CDs, SACDs and DVD-As just fine.

The DVD issue is that the 3930 has always had issues playing some DVDs, especially DVD-Rs, that cheap $50 DVD players do not - go figure. But that's also been true since day one.

Hey Guys and Gals, I currently have a Denon DVD-3910 that after almost 7 years doesn't play SACDs anymore but DVD media flawlessly...I have been pleased with this unit however am looking for strictly a DVD-A/SACD player to mate with my Denon AVR-4806. Given I would be using DenonLink would there be any advantage of the DVD-3910 over the 2930 in this scenario?

Any impute would be appreciated and keep in mind I am not interested in Blu-ray at the moment. Thanks. :)

3910 has better video processor and slighty better analog outputs that 2930. 2930 does not have the iLink (Firewire) connection either.
Using DenonLink III makes both players equal on audio, since the decoding is done in the receiver.

BTW, maybe you can replace the laser on the 3910...

3910 has better video processor and slighty better analog outputs that 2930. 2930 does not have the iLink (Firewire) connection either.
Using DenonLink III makes both players equal on audio, since the decoding is done in the receiver.

BTW, maybe you can replace the laser on the 3910...


The problem with the 2930 is that it is too big and bulky.. I can challenge you that my slim sony BDP-S570 ($99 refurb) can trounce this 2930 in functionality, quality of image and features. Another problem is that this is a very flaky unit in quality. it could be a hit or miss.. my first unit (Denon 2930) that I bought when it was on sale for $150(yeah they really had this sale) was full of quality problems.. then I had it replaced with another unit that appeared to work fine. However I couldnt stand its size for what it does, did you see that power cable on this one? I mean.. 10feet? where are you going to hide all that power cable? I know it requires to be of this size because they keep the circuits separate.. guess what, you will never be able to percieve the advantage if any.. anyway and you are paying for an advantage that you cannot perceive with a pain in the ass that you can percieve.. which is the size and bulk

I own an Oppo BDP-93 as well and cant recommend it enough.. It trounces anything that Denon has to offer and I paid $500 for it.

I dont even know why this thread is still active, its time to move on from this relic - Denon 2930

You guys comparing 2930 vs 3910 is similar to someone comparing a 486DX machine with a 486DX66 VLBus computer, in year 2011, yeah I know. this one places SACD <sic!>..lets just bury this, shall we

Some people buy tools to listen music, not to look behind them. The thick power cord has his reason (that I wil not get into).

PS: If you open that BDP-93, you will see on AUDIO side, something similar with what you see in a 100$ chinese bluray player. Sounds like one too...
Multichannel 7.1 DAC (CS4382A) and antique OpAmps (NE5532).

http://www.laaudiofile.com/images/oppo_bdp93_audio_board.jpg

That "old" Denon 2903 has one DAC for stereo front (left and right), then 3 more for the surroud portion. With better OpAmps section. And a dedicated audio DSP DSP that provides AL24Processing Plus. Plus the guy was asking about a connection to the AVR-3806 via DLIII. That is a dedicated audio connection, that HDMI cannot beat.

Oh, if you are talking about the 83SE, that is another beast, no doubt:

http://www.oppodigital.com/blu-ray-bdp-83SE/images/Blu-ray-BDP-83SE_AudioBoard_hr.jpg

Some people buy tools to listen music, not to look behind them. The thick power cord has his reason (that I wil not get into).

PS: If you open that BDP-93, you will see on AUDIO side, something similar with what you see in a 100$ chinese bluray player. Sounds like one too...
Multichannel 7.1 DAC (CS4382A) and antique OpAmps (NE5532).

http://www.laaudiofile.com/images/oppo_bdp93_audio_board.jpg

That "old" Denon 2903 has one DAC for stereo front (left and right), then 3 more for the surroud portion. With better OpAmps section. And a dedicated audio DSP DSP that provides AL24Processing Plus. Plus the guy was asking about a connection to the AVR-3806 via DLIII. That is a dedicated audio connection, that HDMI cannot beat.

so what do you do with those "better" opamps? do you live inside them? does it keep you warm?

Sarcasm aside, some fanatics forget what the player is for.. and how much a human can discern.. combine these two, the Denon is a POS that belongs to be in Mars. Yeah, cheap chinese stuff is fine by me, if it performs!! I dont need to pay $1000 for a stick that has DAC and discrete audio and video circuits so I can scratch my backside

Please stay focused on technical details and not silly bickering. Thanks.

larry

Thanks Larry!

Hi Guys! Would anybody help me to find detailed instructions to replace the laser in my Denon 3930 dvd player? Some pictures would be handy too. Thanks for any help!

Hi Guys! Would anybody help me to find detailed instructions to replace the laser in my Denon 3930 dvd player? Some pictures would be handy too. Thanks for any help!

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=20272940#post20272940

I just purchased a supposedly almost new (played maybe 3 times?) 2930. I only want to use it for playing SACD and DVD-A discs via denon link. I believe I have it setup correctly with denon link 3 selected and connected to my Denon 4311 with the input set as denon link. DVD-A discs play fine, but when I load a SACD discs it loads only the Redbook CD layer. I have tried this with at least 8 different SACDs all with the same results. If I select the SACD Audio Setup button and select multi or stereo it will never load the SACD, but if I select the CD option the layer loads and it plays. Am I missing a setting or is there an issue with the DVD 2930 player?

My DVD-2930 plays fine SACD on the AVR-3805 (http://usa.denon.com/DocumentMaster/US/AVR-3805_Final_productsheet.pdf) via DL 3rd.
Your AVR-4311 has DL 4 - that I think is not supporting SACD anymore because they introduced HDMI SACD Support.

My DVD-2930 plays fine SACD on the AVR-3805 (http://usa.denon.com/DocumentMaster/US/AVR-3805_Final_productsheet.pdf) via DL 3rd.
Your AVR-4311 has DL 4 - that I think is not supporting SACD anymore because they introduced HDMI SACD Support.
Well my 4311 will do DL 4, but will also do DL 3 which it does fine for DVD-A discs. Also, I tried first using HDMI to play SACD and it still won't load anything but the CD layer. When your 2930 is playing a SACD what is displayed on the player screen? Does it show SACD? Because mine only displays CD.

No, the player display reads Super Audio CD and the receiver says DSD.
Does not work with back-ups of SACD.

In the menu settings, do you have the "HDMI audio setup" set to 2CH? That is the proper setting for multichannel thru the DL.

In the menu settings, do you have the "HDMI audio setup" set to 2CH? That is the proper setting for multichannel thru the DL.
I have tried it with 2CH & Multichannel (Normal) - no luck. I appreciate the suggestions, but I can't get it to even load/read the SACD layer, just the CD layer if it is a hybrid with a CD layer. If it doesn't have a CD layer then it will just keep saying that it is loading and eventually turns off. These are all very new SACD discs purchased over the last 3 months and they play fine on my Oppo 80, so it isn't a disc problem. I am guessing that this is a hardware problem, perhaps the laser:confused:.

It might be the laser.
I did replaced mine (wasn't reading the CD layer on CD-R) with a cheap eBay one and is still working - my wife is using it daily for homeschool DVD's.
I did post instructions in this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=20272940#post20272940).

It might be the laser.
I did replaced mine (wasn't reading the CD layer on CD-R) with a cheap eBay one and is still working - my wife is using it daily for homeschool DVD's.
I did post instructions in this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=20272940#post20272940).

Thanks SoNic67, the instructions tread is awesome, I will try change the Laser by myself... (my 3930 did't read CD-R for a while).

just wondering, any difference between Sanyo HD850 & HD-65, looks thay all can replace 2930/3930?

thanks

I am not sure what laser pick up uses the DVD-3930 (manual gives a part number just for the whole traverse assy).

Hi,

Bought 2 used players on eBay.

Looks like at least one of them did not see any action for the last couple of years.

Would be nice if someone can give me a link to the latest f/w for Denon 3930CI.
Tried the links I've found here, but they don't work anymore.

Thanks ahead!

>>Solved, found a creative way to get a serial so can download from Denon Europe. There is also a link in this thread that works, turns out this is pointing to the latest f/w.

I am not sure what laser pick up uses the DVD-3930 (manual gives a part number just for the whole traverse assy).

If you can replace it yourselves... Search on eBay... those are really affordable now.

Edit: replacing the laser assy is usually enough to fix the 'cannot play DVD / Movie hangs after 30 mins / hangs when skip to next track / SACD disk only plays as CD' problems, no need to replace the entire traverse unit.

Do a search on eBay for "denon 3930 laser" if you want to replace by yourselves. Laser assy of 2930 and 3930 are the same.

Hi,

What is the current reading on a healthy 3930's DVD laser? (test mode, laser on/off, DVD laser)

My player say >3300 (>33mA) but that seems a bit high to me. Would expect around 20mA.

Thanks.

Test it with a DVD-ROM disc inside. Not empty, not DVD-R/+R...

Test it with a DVD-ROM disc inside. Not empty, not DVD-R/+R...

Thanks a lot!

Edit: New replacement lasers are using different laser diode, those requiring 50mA for DVD and 45mA for CD. So what I'm seeing is normal.

Because Denon&Marantz (D&M Holding) issued a takedown letter to many of the sites that where hosting free service manuals for those devices, I cannot recomend anymore for anyone to get one of those players/receivers, nor will I provide free advices for Denon or Marantz devices. Their greed is hitting the DIY community and for what I care they can sink.
I am not affilated in any way with any of those sites, but it was a good place to get those documents free instaed of paying shady russians for the copies.

Now I am sorry I did a show-and-tell of how to replace the Denon crappy lasers, they should feel the full anger of their customers when they have to trow those things in the garbage. Or when they have to pay hundreds of $ instead of a 15$ fix.
Therefore I did delete that post and pictures of how to.

I have now from Denon 1 receiver, 1 CD player, 2 DVD-players and I was looking to buy a new blu-ray one. Not anymore.

I really don't understand why so many companies seem intent on driving away customers through poor customer support. Unhelpful and sometimes unintelligible call centers. Extortionate parts and service prices. And my favorite gripe is abominable documentation. Take a bow Denon.

I had a 1993 Infinity Q. It came with a 2" thick service manual in addition to an extensive owner's manual. In todays world manufacturers could put their service and all other documents online at trivial cost.

I am not advocating corporate charity, just good after the sale product support.

I remember the times when the TV sets came with schematics... Now they issue take down notices for same.

I wonder where they would be if the first guy thet invented alphabet copyrighted it. Or the guy that invented multiplication tables. Or the one that discovered electricity, ohms law, kirchoff laws. Or the one that invented the transistor or integrated circuit.
How come the DAC and OpAmp cips manufacturers give datasheets for free (that Denon USED too) and those are not "copyrighted"?
Those corporate guys and the politicians, judges that granted them so much power are STUPID.

For what I care, legally one cannot copyright previous work/art published by others. So Denon cannot copyright schematics that have major elements that where published previously in TI/AD/BB/NJM datasheets or in any highscool or college electronics manuals. I think 99% of their schematics can be traced to others.

yeah, I've sent my DVD-3930CI back to Denon factory, in Mahwah NJ, three times for complete laser assy replacement (like $275.00 $300.00 each time). Guess I'll have to continue in this manner. I've paid for a new unit at retial cost at this point. Although it does perform well now for a few years, I savor it's usage. The 2ch analog sound is beautiful.

I'm just getting used to my brand new Oppo BDP-93, not bad out of the box, nice soundstage, clean and "airy" sound. But I'd be very intrigued to directly compare it to the DVD-3930CI for CD sources.

Meah, I did listen CD's on Oppo BDP-93 and wasn't great. Good, but not great.

I am still looking to listen a BDP-83 Special Edition or a BDP-95 - supposelly those should be a step above due to their Sabre DAC's (especially 95 that has two of those DAC's).

Meah, I did listen CD's on Oppo BDP-93 and wasn't great. Good, but not great.

I am still looking to listen a BDP-83 Special Edition or a BDP-95 - supposelly those should be a step above due to their Sabre DAC's (especially 95 that has two of those DAC's).So far I'm very happy with Oppo BDP-93 overall, exceptional video quality and very good CD sound quality. I'm really impressed.

I also have the Oppo BDP-83 and BDP-95 to be used in different systems. Really eager to hear BDP-95.

I just sold my Denon DVD-3800BDCI, I really loved CD quality on this player too. Blu-ray and DVD performance is incredible too. It's the combination of DAC's, AL24 and rigid chassis design that set's these players apart. I wanted to keep it, especially for CD, but had to make decision for space. The BDP-95 seem to out-weigh the DVD-3800BDCI for all it can do (ie. BD, SD-DVD, CD, SACD, DVD-A, HDCD, USB, DLNA, etc.,..), and it does these things very well.

I'm not sure what to do with my DVD-3930CI at this point? It's like brand-new condition

Keep it. 3930ci for CD's, 2CH SACD's, DVD-A's and DVD upscale. Oppo 93 for everything else. Super combo.

I'm not sure what to do with my DVD-3930CI at this point? It's like brand-new condition
eBay :D

eBay :D

Hi SoNic67, I follow your step, just replace 3930CI Laser lense, still can't read red books CD, just wondering how to do this step...

"14. Put the top and bottom covers back. Plug back the power cord. Using the service manual instructions reset the laser curent value to the new one and zero the "laser on" timer."

Sorry. Quote from above:
Because Denon&Marantz (D&M Holding) issued a takedown letter to many of the sites that where hosting free service manuals for those devices, I cannot recomend anymore for anyone to get one of those players/receivers, nor will I provide free advices for Denon or Marantz devices. Their greed is hitting the DIY community and for what I care they can sink.
I am not affilated in any way with any of those sites, but it was a good place to get those documents free instaed of paying shady russians for the copies.

Now I am sorry I did a show-and-tell of how to replace the Denon crappy lasers, they should feel the full anger of their customers when they have to trow those things in the garbage. Or when they have to pay hundreds of $ instead of a 15$ fix.
Therefore I did delete that post and pictures of how to.

I have now from Denon 1 receiver, 1 CD player, 2 DVD-players and I was looking to buy a new blu-ray one. Not anymore.

I honestly have no clue why they make a $1500 DVD player now or ever. Just like I have no clue why they would make a $3800 DVD player or a $5000 AVR.

Because there are rich people in this world that will say "$1000 is too cheap for an X player. What have you got that's better?" and those people will buy a $5000 player that is no better than a $500 player just because it is $5000.

They're buying exclusivity as much as anything else.