The "Official" Denon AVR-4306 Thread

[Dutchman01]

first update to 6.0.0.2 and after that upgrade to final 6.0.0.3.


Seems there still a small bug left at the 6.0.0.3 firmware for programming true pc control the FM Preset list.


6.0.0.3 fix all FM and AM presets finally, but when you give a custom name to you favorite it does not remeber all custom names as it should be.

Denon Japan And Germany and the Netherlands knows my findings after some contact with the head office.

I think over 2 or 3 months we get a final firmware called 6.0.0.4.

i believe lots of code needs to rewriten in the firmware by Denon Japan but they take there time because AVR-3808 and AVR-4308 are in the spotlights now.

[evileye]

I've put off purchasing a Blu-Ray player just long as I possibly can. Now I'm trying to figure out which player will be best the match with my current equipment and future equipment plans.

I've got a Denon 4306 and couldn't be happier with it. This isn't going anywhere anytime soon.

I've got an old Mitsubishi WS-55857 HDTV but it only has component inputs, no HDMI. I'm fully aware that the TV is a limiting factor and I have plans to replace it but not for at least another year. At that time I fully expect to buy a high-end replacement.

AFAIK this setup forces me to use component hookups from the Blu-Ray to the 4306. If my research is correct this means non DVD upconversion for me regardless of player . Does it affect audio choices as well? I know I need player-side decoding to get the most out of Blu-Ray with my receiver.

I'm considering the following models :

Panasonic BD50
Sony S500
Pioneer BDP-51FD
Pioneer BDP-05FD

Any pros or cons for any of these models paired with the 4306? Any other models I should consider? The PS3 has already been ruled out.

[UxiSXRD]

PS3 is still the best Blu-ray player and hard to see how any standalone will ever match it's a speed and performance, but if you don't like it you don't like it. The 4306 handles 8ch LPCM just fine from the PS3 over HDMI, as I can attest to with personal experience.

Regardless, I'd stay away from the Sony S500, though maybe consider the current 350 or the upcoming S550. IIRC the BD50 should be good, but I haven't been tracking the Pioneer players (too poor of a bang for the buck IMO).

IIRC the 4306 cannot go from HDMI to analog, though on ti's output, so that's a deal breaker for anything not coming in over component, so you're stuck in the analog realm for the HD audio formats or staying with legacy.

[MrSkimo]

Hi Dutchman,

I downloaded your version 6_0_0_2 in preparation to upgrade my (so far virgin) AVR-4306.

However, I looked up my current firmware versions as per the directions. Here is what I found:

Main Ver00.99
Sub Ver00.50
DSP Ver00.04

Since the Main Ver of 00.99 is what was referenced in that download, do I need to run this upgrade? If not, where can I find the 6_0_0_3 version? A prior link that I followed did not work.

Thanks,
Greg

[Dutchman01]

Originally Posted by MrSkimo

Hi Dutchman,

I downloaded your version 6_0_0_2 in preparation to upgrade my (so far virgin) AVR-4306.

However, I looked up my current firmware versions as per the directions. Here is what I found:

Main Ver00.99
Sub Ver00.50
DSP Ver00.04

Since the Main Ver of 00.99 is what was referenced in that download, do I need to run this upgrade? If not, where can I find the 6_0_0_3 version? A prior link that I followed did not work.

Thanks,
Greg

It seems that your are running 6.0.0.2 yet so update to 6.0.0.2 is not needed annymore.

here the link to 6.0.0.3 again.

http://rapidshare.com/files/12690597...ith_manual.zip

working correct.

[darud_akbar]

Are you aware of a firmware update for the Denon 4306 that would add support for 24-bit/192khz over HDMI? The most recent firmware only allows 24-bit/48khz or 24-bit/96khz. I recently purchased a Blu-ray disc with 24-bit/192khz with 5.1 audio, however the 4306 only processes it as 2.0. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

[darud_akbar]

4306 Multi-channel support for 24-bit/192khz over HDMI:

Are you aware of a firmware update for the Denon 4306 that would add support for 24-bit/192khz over HDMI? The most recent firmware only allows 24-bit/48khz or 24-bit/96khz. I recently purchased a Blu-ray disc with 24-bit/192khz with 5.1 audio, however the 4306 only processes it as 2.0. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

[darud_akbar]

Even with the latest firmware, the 4306 will not properly decode multi-channel 24-bit/192khz...it processes it as two-channel! Any suggestions?

[Locnard]

Ok brand new to the site and wow what info I found.I have been in touch with Denon as I was eager to try the update every one has been applying. Denon wants me to fill out an RMA and send it to Jersey. NOTTT!

So here is what I want to know. I have a DVD-2500BTCi I can only get multi-channel out since there is no HD decoding. So I want to trade up to the DVD3800BDCi. Now if I am correct the only way to get HD from the 3800 is to do the update as my firmware is older and use the analog connections. But here is the rub I have a DVM-2845 DVD/SACD in those connections already.

Does anyone use two analog devices? Or with the update will HDMI 7.1 be sufficent?

[darud_akbar]

If I misunderstand your question, please clarify. If you decide to upgrade to the 3800BDCI, it will perform the decoding for you. So you should select that option within the player, connect it via HDMI to your 4306 after you download the latest firmware. It will then send any of the lossless codecs to your 4306 via HDMI as PCM. That way, you can keep your sacd player connected via analog...or if it has a Denon Link, I would select that route. Denon Link now transmits DVD-A & SACD at 16-24/48-192khz. Hope this answers your question. Good Luck!!!

[bluefrog411]

I recently upgraded my TV from an old Samsung ED plasma. I had my 4306 working perfectly and connected via hdmi to a DVI into the old plasma. When I tried connecting to the new Samsung LCD through a straight hdmi to hdmi I get no picture.

The tv sees some signal because it activates the hdmi input - and as I change video sources on the 4306 the Samsung LCD shows different resolutions being received. But, all I get is snow interrupted by a black screen.

I have tried hooking the video components directly to the Samsung via hdmi and all works fine.

I can't get system setup to appear on the LCD either.

Any ideas?

The only thing I can think of is to connect the video components directly to the LCD and then run audio out to the 4306 but that doesn't seem like a great solution.

[Locnard]

Originally Posted by darud_akbar

If I misunderstand your question, please clarify. If you decide to upgrade to the 3800BDCI, it will perform the decoding for you. So you should select that option within the player, connect it via HDMI to your 4306 after you download the latest firmware. It will then send any of the lossless codecs to your 4306 via HDMI as PCM. That way, you can keep your sacd player connected via analog...or if it has a Denon Link, I would select that route. Denon Link now transmits DVD-A & SACD at 16-24/48-192khz. Hope this answers your question. Good Luck!!!

darud_akbar Thanks for your reply I am hoping the update will do the trick. I have a response from Denon they will not supply the firmware for US customers.They said that the update was offered as of May this year. They said that they would still do it free of charge provided I send it in at my expense. I will let you know how it goes. I am not sure about loading the software from here as I have read that there are some bugs. The receiver has no problems other than 7.1 through HDMI If you or anyone else has and opinion I would appreciate it. I have a crossover cable at the ready.


Thanks

[Peter Galbavy]

Originally Posted by bluefrog411

I recently upgraded my TV from an old Samsung ED plasma. I had my 4306 working perfectly and connected via hdmi to a DVI into the old plasma. When I tried connecting to the new Samsung LCD through a straight hdmi to hdmi I get no picture.

The tv sees some signal because it activates the hdmi input - and as I change video sources on the 4306 the Samsung LCD shows different resolutions being received. But, all I get is snow interrupted by a black screen.

I have tried hooking the video components directly to the Samsung via hdmi and all works fine.

I can't get system setup to appear on the LCD either.

Any ideas?

The only thing I can think of is to connect the video components directly to the LCD and then run audio out to the 4306 but that doesn't seem like a great solution.

Obvious one, I know but have you tried another HDMI cable.

Assuming that's OK, is your 4306 on the "latest" firmware ? Not sure what/where in the US, but in the EU this is downloadable and updates via the Ethernet. I recall seeing some HDMI compatibility things mentioned in the release notes.

[darud_akbar]

If you have a Windows XP SP2, you can do the firmware update yourself, and save yourself the hassle of disconnecting/reconnecting your 4306. If you're like me, I have at least 7 components connected to my 4306 and it would be a serious hassle to send it in. The firmware takes 15 minutes max and it’s done through your Ethernet port. If you feel safer sending it in, I certainly understand. Nevertheless, good luck...cheers!

[rsblaski]

Originally Posted by Locnard

darud_akbar Thanks for your reply I am hoping the update will do the trick. I have a response from Denon they will not supply the firmware for US customers.They said that the update was offered as of May this year. They said that they would still do it free of charge provided I send it in at my expense. I will let you know how it goes. I am not sure about loading the software from here as I have read that there are some bugs. The receiver has no problems other than 7.1 through HDMI If you or anyone else has and opinion I would appreciate it. I have a crossover cable at the ready.


Thanks

I have used one of the firmware upgrades provided through a link in this thread and it went well. Beyond the misery of disconnecting your receiver mentioned by another poster, I can't imagine what the freight charges would be to send the receiver to Denon. If you have reliable electrical power and an XP computer, I wouldn't be tooooo nervous about it. I did mine using a computer in one room through a router with cable running through my house into the media room. The process went smoothly and I got the latest (at that time) firmware upgrade. I didn't do the last one as I believe it only addresses internet radio issues, which I don't have a use for. Good luck and I really can't understand why Denon won't officially provide the upgrade here in the US.

[Locnard]

I am trying to nail Denon down about what the benefit is if any at all of sending the unit in.I did get a response from the Tech support that said it was a hardware update that they would do for free. I am sure however that I would have to pay shipping

I have updated firmware in many different items the difference is that the update was provided by the manufacturer. I have heard about a few bugs from some posters. As of now the unit operates flawlessly.

The whole reason I want to do an update is so when I get the DVD3800BDci I can receive decoded HD signals. If I am wrong there is no reason to update.

[Dutchman01]

Originally Posted by Locnard

I am trying to nail Denon down about what the benefit is if any at all of sending the unit in.I did get a response from the Tech support that said it was a hardware update that they would do for free. I am sure however that I would have to pay shipping

I have updated firmware in many different items the difference is that the update was provided by the manufacturer. I have heard about a few bugs from some posters. As of now the unit operates flawlessly.

The whole reason I want to do an update is so when I get the DVD3800BDci I can receive decoded HD signals. If I am wrong there is no reason to update.

Hardware Update is a Lie.

It's only a software update on the hardware.

Means, needed those firmware's, posted here from the Denon Europe web site and Denon NL before update on German (Europe) Update web site.

[Quickster2]

Originally Posted by Locnard

Ok brand new to the site and wow what info I found.I have been in touch with Denon as I was eager to try the update every one has been applying. Denon wants me to fill out an RMA and send it to Jersey. NOTTT!

So here is what I want to know. I have a DVD-2500BTCi I can only get multi-channel out since there is no HD decoding. So I want to trade up to the DVD3800BDCi. Now if I am correct the only way to get HD from the 3800 is to do the update as my firmware is older and use the analog connections. But here is the rub I have a DVM-2845 DVD/SACD in those connections already.

Does anyone use two analog devices? Or with the update will HDMI 7.1 be sufficent?

I have a 3930 and a 3800 hooked up to my 4306. The 3930 utilizes Denon Link for audio and HDMI for video. The 3800 is connected solely via HDMI. The 3800 will select and send either bitstream or LPCM HDMI automatically to the 4306 based on the audio codec. The 3800 does not decode DTS-HD/HR used on some concert BD discs. The 3800 is an awesome machine for Blu-ray. My 4306 has the second firmware allowing 7.1 LPCM via HDMI, works and sounds great. I have not seen the need for latest firmware.

[Locnard]

I believe you Dutchman. I also believe that the hardware upgrade is bogus why else would they offer the upgrade for free?Quickster None of my source devices have Denon Link. So its HDMI of SPDIF. Since getting my Samsung LN52A750 I am able to see the full potential of the DVM-2845. With its Faroudia DCDi upscaler DVDs as so amazing I am not going to repurchase BDs. To tell you the truth I think is does a better job upscaling than the 2500BT. But I digress. So Here is my current status Main .81 Sub .42 DSP 4 I have D/L 6.0.0.2 and 6.0.0.3. I got a crossover cable since it is the recommended method. Just for grins I did check connectivity at the beging of the up grade and it was al good but I was to chicken to pull the trigger until I was sure of the version.

I do want to thank everyone who is posting here for all the Information. Its nice to have a place to go where you get real problems and real answers instead of whining a complaining.

[burpootus]

My setup has a cable box HDMI in, and HDMI out to the TV. Is it possible to utilize the tuner for audio while watching TV from the cable box HDMI? I want to listen to a game on the radio while watching another on the TV.

[Quickster2]

Originally Posted by evileye

I've put off purchasing a Blu-Ray player just long as I possibly can. Now I'm trying to figure out which player will be best the match with my current equipment and future equipment plans.

I've got a Denon 4306 and couldn't be happier with it. This isn't going anywhere anytime soon.

I've got an old Mitsubishi WS-55857 HDTV but it only has component inputs, no HDMI. I'm fully aware that the TV is a limiting factor and I have plans to replace it but not for at least another year. At that time I fully expect to buy a high-end replacement.

AFAIK this setup forces me to use component hookups from the Blu-Ray to the 4306. If my research is correct this means non DVD upconversion for me regardless of player . Does it affect audio choices as well? I know I need player-side decoding to get the most out of Blu-Ray with my receiver.

I'm considering the following models :

Panasonic BD50
Sony S500
Pioneer BDP-51FD
Pioneer BDP-05FD

Any pros or cons for any of these models paired with the 4306? Any other models I should consider? The PS3 has already been ruled out.

Since you are going to wait for the TV I would suggest the upcoming Panasonic BD55 with 7.1 analog outputs. This would be a nice match with the 4306. The BD50 only has 5.1 analog.

[dlweninger]

Hi everyone, like the title says, can I go from 6.0.0.1 to 6.0.0.3 or do I need to do 6.0.0.2 first..

[UxiSXRD]

Originally Posted by rsblaski

Good luck and I really can't understand why Denon won't officially provide the upgrade here in the US.

They probably don't want to deal with any CSR issues. As it is, they don't have the best rep for that, even if I do like their equipment the best (though others, notably Onkyo are much more competitive than they used to be).

[Dutchman01]

Originally Posted by dlweninger

Hi everyone, like the title says, can I go from 6.0.0.1 to 6.0.0.3 or do I need to do 6.0.0.2 first..

I would do 6.0.0.2 first and after that one the latest 6.0.0.3.

Have a nice day.

[rsblaski]

Originally Posted by Dutchman01

I would do 6.0.0.2 first and after that one the latest 6.0.0.3.

Have a nice day.

Really? I've never heard of a firmware update that doesn't re-write all of the files. Every other firmware update I've done has simply replaced one firmware version with another. Does Denon only add or change some of the information in their updates? It seems to me that would be asking for problems.

[Dutchman01]

Thats is indeed a good question,

I do not know if the latest version also upgrade the Bug fixes from 6.0.0.2.

I did ask Denon for a a new firmware i did get 6.0.0.3. first before the rest of the world in my mailbox.

They did ask me to test this one how it performs right now.

I did report back to denon that there's one small bug left in the PC control.
from the few there were in 6.0.0.2.

Also they did let me know that 6.0.0.2 did need to be installed before to supply 6.0.0.3.


Right now i´m waiting for 6.0.0.4 and i do not know yet whem i got it from denon.

Seems like they have a big job to do so that the AVR-4306 can remember what name you did input for a radiostation.

Now it lost that input. (6.0.0.3)

Firmware 6.0.0.2 can´t program all radio channels and names for radio stations.
lots of code are missing there.

[d4vr0s]

I built a HTPC with a Intel DG45ID motherboard connected to my 4306 via HDMI.
I've been searching for an answer to why Vista only shows 2 channel stereo in the hdmi configuration.
I think this is the same problem mentioned by bert0123 earlier in this thread:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14345804#post14345804

I can play Dobly-EX and DTS-ES files and get surround sound, but when I select a 'TrueHD' mode on a blu-ray disk I only get 2 channels.
So I came across this article on Intel's site:

http://software.intel.com/en-us/blogs/2008/05/12/hdmi-audio-case-study-denon-av-receivers/

Which basically says that the Denon receivers are sending an incompatible EDID through HDMI.
So I wonder if there is any chance they would resolve this issue with a future firmware (like 6.0.0.4 )
As a consumer, I feel trapped between 2 large companies arguing about who is right and I don't really care who is.
I just want 7.1

Sorry for the code tags, since this is my first post the board won't let me post urls otherwise.

[achilleas8095]

Hi guys I tried to do the 6.0.0.3 firmware and in the middle of the process my denon extinguished and from then it doesn’t turn on any responds at all. Any advice before I am addressed το technical support?

[scary_harry]

Originally Posted by achilleas8095

Hi guys I tried to do the 6.0.0.3 firmware and in the middle of the process my denon extinguished and from then it doesn’t turn on any responds at all. Any advice before I am addressed το technical support?

If you haven't done so already then try a master reset. The instructions are on page 64 of the owners manual.

Other than that I've got nothing.

Harry

[Dutchman01]

Lady's and Gentlemen,

Forget about firmware 6.0.0.3.

Today i did get from Denon a few minutes before closing time the latest final firmware release for the AVR-4306 or AVC-4320 (Japanees Version).

It does solve al bugs the few there were in past firmware's and also upgrade the main from 0.99 to 1.00

Here's the link to firmware 6.0.0.4

Hosted on a friends server a direct link

http://speedtrack.org/Denon/AVR-4306...de_6.0.0.4.zip

and a rapidshare link

http://rapidshare.com/files/15181182....4_6.0.0.2.zip

Upgrade manuals are included. READ It please.

Also a PC is needed with XP on it, WARNING: NO Vista PC!!!

AVR-4306 version numbers after Update to firmware 6.0.0.4

1 STATUS MODEL AVR
2 STATUS MAIN 01.00
3 STATUS SUB 00.50
4 STATUS DSP 00.04
5 STATUS ETHERNET IMG I200805270745
6 STATUS ETHERNET BL B200510231011
7 STATUS ETHERNET CNE C 20080527
8 STATUS ETHERNET MAC 0005cd-*****

I run it already and i'm pleased about it.

Have a nice day,

Dutchman.