This thread is for discussion of the 2013 Denon lineup, including the new "E Series" budget lineup and higher level "X Series" models.
The new "E Series" and "X Series" models have been officially released, and will be hitting owner's living rooms soon, so here is the official thread!
Lot's more info and FAQ's to follow.
Denon E-Series Press Release
Denon X-Series Press Release
Denon AVR-E400 Review with Bench Tests at Sound & Vision / HT Mag
What the heck is the "E Series" and "X Series"???
Denon has changed their model naming nomenclature, and the new "E Series" models have effectively replaced the lower level (non CI) models from the Denon consumer level receiver lineup. The E-Series features 2-year warranties, with all but the basic E-200 model including Audyssey MultEQ calibration and an ethernet port for network access. The "X Series" replaced the higher level (CI) models in Denon's receiver lineup; all of these models feature a 3-year warranty, with more advanced Audyssey calibration (XT in the first three models, and XT32 in the X4000) and expanding featuresets for more flexible custom integration and multizone functionality.
Denon E Series Comparison Chart
Essentially, the AVR-E200 replaces the AVR-1513, the AVR-E300 replaces the AVR-1613, and the AVR-E400 replaces the 1913.
Denon X Series Comparison Chart
The AVR-X1000 replaces the AVR-1713 as the lower price point, 5.1 receiver with MultEQ XT, then the X2000, X3000, and X4000 models replace the 2113CI, 2313CI, and 3313CI, respectively.
So what's new in these models compared to the xx13 lineup?
Every year the new models are released, the inevitable question comes up as to whether it's better to buy the preceding model at close-out discount pricing, or to jump on the new model for some exciting new must-have feature. So what's new in the E/X Series lineup compared to the xx13 models? Overall, the changes are subtle, and for the lower level models it may still be a better deal to buy last year's model at a good price. The farther up the line you go, however, the more dramatic the improvements get.
New and/or notable features and changes for all E/X Series models (note that "all" often excludes the E200 which doesn't really count):
* A "Video Select" function, accessed via the OPTION button on the remote, allows you to listen to a USB/Tuner/Network audio source while watching a separate video source (including HDMI inputs!)
* ALL inputs can be assigned, including basic RCA analog for the first time (excludes E200)
* Spotify trickles down to E300, standardizing network streaming options (along with AirPlay, Pandora, Internet Radio, and SiriusXM) across all models
* All multizone equipped models (E400 and X Series) get the ALL ZONE STEREO feature that debuted on the 4520CI. This is a "party mode" zone feature which broadcasts the same audio to all zones, and importantly works with ANY input source (digital or analog). So as long as you are OK with the same source playing in both zones, ALL multizone models can now play ANY digital signal to Zone 2!
--- Note that engaging ALL ZONE STEREO will result in a stereo downmix for Main Zone.
--- To use All Zone Stereo, first power on Zone 2, hit the OPTION button on the remote, then select ALL ZONE STEREO from the on-screen menu.
--- Main Zone will lock onto MultiCh Stereo mode, and Zone 2 will switch to whatever source is playing in Main Zone.
* HDMI Standby Passthrough, as before, is included on all models (including the base level E200 model) but with some tweaks:
--- The feature is now disconnected from HDMI Control, so you can leave CEC off while still using it
--- Passthrough defaults to "ON" with Standby Source defaulting to "CBL/SAT" input
* All models feature front panel HDMI and USB inputs (note that E200 has front HDMI but lacks front USB)
* All models have a full color GUI which can overlay on top of video sources (available on the HDMI output only) including 3D signals
--- Note that the E200 cannot overlay GUI on 3D signals
--- Note that the E400, X2000, X3000 and X4000 can also overlay GUI on 4k signals
* 4k scaling / passthrough support on all models except for E200, E300, and X1000
* AM radio tuner returns to all models after a one-year absence
* The INFO button on the remote now calls up a rich display of information including input/output speaker channels:
* New color-coded, horizontally arrayed speaker terminal layout and new binding post design:
--- A new spring-loaded "east connect" binding post design for bare wire connection on the E300/E400 -- but they do NOT accept banana plugs!
--- The X Series models use a traditional binding post but now allows for a "12 o'clock" speaker wire insertion orientation for bare wire
--- The E200 has basic spring clips for all speaker connections
Easy Connect Speaker Terminals
Wait, so what's that "more dramatic" improvement stuff you are talking about the further you go up??
Still working my way through the manuals currently, but the most obvious change is a major step forward in Multizone functionality. So here's some additional changes, moving progressively upward through the X Series:
* All X Series models allow variable volume control of the Zone 2 pre-outs; previously, the 1713 and 2113CI only allowed fixed volume output via the pre-outs.
* The X3000 and X4000 add InstaPrevue, an HDMI PiP technology which allows you to preview any (or all) active HDMI input source in a small window and switch to the one you want seamlessly. Click here to see user flint350's photos of InstaPrevue in the 4520 thread and
* The X3000 makes two major multizone advances over the 2313CI:
--- (1) The 2nd HDMI output is now an independent Zone 2 HDMI matrix output
--- (2) ALL digital signals (2.0 PCM only, but from HDMI or S/PDIF) can be played to Zone 2 speaker output
* The X3000 also adds DTS Neo:X as an alternative to Audyssey DSX for adding height/width channels instead of surr.back for 7ch configurations.
* The X4000 includes the new digital multizone goodies of the X3000, and then makes a monster splash by bringing some impressive "trickle down" features from the flagship 4520CI model:
--- (1) Audyssey MultEQ XT32 and SubEQ HT
--- (2) Audyssey LFC (low frequency containment)
--- (3) Although the X4000 is a 7ch receiver, it can now expand to 9ch with the addition of at least 2 channels of external amplification
When you factor in state-of-the-art XT32/SubEQ calibration, 9ch expansion capability, DTS Neo:X and Audyssey DSX, full digital multizone capability, HDMI zone matrix output, and Audyssey LFC, it's clear that Denon has positioned the X4000 to be a major player this year, taking direct aim at the Onkyo 818 and upping the ante in several key areas.
Wow, the X4000 sounds amazing! Is there any reason to fork over the extra coin for the 4520CI now??
While the X4000 appears to be a "baby 4520" with most of the important features, there are still some things the 4520 has that may entice people to step up to the flagship model:
1. The 4520 is larger and heavier, with a superior amp section rated to drive 4-ohm speakers.
2. The 4520 has better build quality; it's built in Japan (not China) and has higher quality speaker binding posts for example
3. The 4520 has 9 amps built in, and can expand to 11 channels (instead of 7/9 on the X4000)
4. The 4520 has 4 zones instead of 3; the HDMI Zone output is dedicated to Zone 4, leaving Zones 2/3 independent. On the X4000, the HDMI Zone output shares Zone 2.
5. The 4520 can output component video to Zones 2 and 3, meaning it's possible to distribute HD video to all 4 zones.
6. The 4520 has full 32-bit processing architecture, including 32-bit DAC's and AL32 processing (vs. the 24-bit analogues on the X4000).
7. The 4520 has more legacy (analog) input/output connectivity, including 7.1 multichannel analog inputs, and an extra component video input and output.
8. The 4520 has a built-in 4-port ethernet hub
9. The 4520 has an incredibly flexible Amp Assign configuration, including a "Custom" free assign mode which allows any reassignment of 6 out of the 9 amps. The X4000 has the standard Amp Assign template where only 2 out of the 7 amps are reassignable according to predetermined options.
That said, for most users, the X4000 will be a smarter choice and is really an amazing value, especially considering the critical additions of XT32/SubEQ calibration and the digital multizone options.
The new "E Series" and "X Series" models have been officially released, and will be hitting owner's living rooms soon, so here is the official thread!
Lot's more info and FAQ's to follow.
Denon E-Series Press Release
Denon X-Series Press Release
Denon AVR-E400 Review with Bench Tests at Sound & Vision / HT Mag
What the heck is the "E Series" and "X Series"???
Denon has changed their model naming nomenclature, and the new "E Series" models have effectively replaced the lower level (non CI) models from the Denon consumer level receiver lineup. The E-Series features 2-year warranties, with all but the basic E-200 model including Audyssey MultEQ calibration and an ethernet port for network access. The "X Series" replaced the higher level (CI) models in Denon's receiver lineup; all of these models feature a 3-year warranty, with more advanced Audyssey calibration (XT in the first three models, and XT32 in the X4000) and expanding featuresets for more flexible custom integration and multizone functionality.
Denon E Series Comparison Chart
Essentially, the AVR-E200 replaces the AVR-1513, the AVR-E300 replaces the AVR-1613, and the AVR-E400 replaces the 1913.
Denon X Series Comparison Chart
The AVR-X1000 replaces the AVR-1713 as the lower price point, 5.1 receiver with MultEQ XT, then the X2000, X3000, and X4000 models replace the 2113CI, 2313CI, and 3313CI, respectively.
So what's new in these models compared to the xx13 lineup?
Every year the new models are released, the inevitable question comes up as to whether it's better to buy the preceding model at close-out discount pricing, or to jump on the new model for some exciting new must-have feature. So what's new in the E/X Series lineup compared to the xx13 models? Overall, the changes are subtle, and for the lower level models it may still be a better deal to buy last year's model at a good price. The farther up the line you go, however, the more dramatic the improvements get.
New and/or notable features and changes for all E/X Series models (note that "all" often excludes the E200 which doesn't really count):
* A "Video Select" function, accessed via the OPTION button on the remote, allows you to listen to a USB/Tuner/Network audio source while watching a separate video source (including HDMI inputs!)
* ALL inputs can be assigned, including basic RCA analog for the first time (excludes E200)
* Spotify trickles down to E300, standardizing network streaming options (along with AirPlay, Pandora, Internet Radio, and SiriusXM) across all models
* All multizone equipped models (E400 and X Series) get the ALL ZONE STEREO feature that debuted on the 4520CI. This is a "party mode" zone feature which broadcasts the same audio to all zones, and importantly works with ANY input source (digital or analog). So as long as you are OK with the same source playing in both zones, ALL multizone models can now play ANY digital signal to Zone 2!
--- Note that engaging ALL ZONE STEREO will result in a stereo downmix for Main Zone.
--- To use All Zone Stereo, first power on Zone 2, hit the OPTION button on the remote, then select ALL ZONE STEREO from the on-screen menu.
--- Main Zone will lock onto MultiCh Stereo mode, and Zone 2 will switch to whatever source is playing in Main Zone.
* HDMI Standby Passthrough, as before, is included on all models (including the base level E200 model) but with some tweaks:
--- The feature is now disconnected from HDMI Control, so you can leave CEC off while still using it
--- Passthrough defaults to "ON" with Standby Source defaulting to "CBL/SAT" input
* All models feature front panel HDMI and USB inputs (note that E200 has front HDMI but lacks front USB)
* All models have a full color GUI which can overlay on top of video sources (available on the HDMI output only) including 3D signals
--- Note that the E200 cannot overlay GUI on 3D signals
--- Note that the E400, X2000, X3000 and X4000 can also overlay GUI on 4k signals
* 4k scaling / passthrough support on all models except for E200, E300, and X1000
* AM radio tuner returns to all models after a one-year absence
* The INFO button on the remote now calls up a rich display of information including input/output speaker channels:
* New color-coded, horizontally arrayed speaker terminal layout and new binding post design:
--- A new spring-loaded "east connect" binding post design for bare wire connection on the E300/E400 -- but they do NOT accept banana plugs!
--- The X Series models use a traditional binding post but now allows for a "12 o'clock" speaker wire insertion orientation for bare wire
--- The E200 has basic spring clips for all speaker connections
Easy Connect Speaker Terminals
Wait, so what's that "more dramatic" improvement stuff you are talking about the further you go up??
Still working my way through the manuals currently, but the most obvious change is a major step forward in Multizone functionality. So here's some additional changes, moving progressively upward through the X Series:
* All X Series models allow variable volume control of the Zone 2 pre-outs; previously, the 1713 and 2113CI only allowed fixed volume output via the pre-outs.
* The X3000 and X4000 add InstaPrevue, an HDMI PiP technology which allows you to preview any (or all) active HDMI input source in a small window and switch to the one you want seamlessly. Click here to see user flint350's photos of InstaPrevue in the 4520 thread and
here to watch Batpig's crappy iPhone video of InstaPrevue in action[/URL] .* The X3000 makes two major multizone advances over the 2313CI:
--- (1) The 2nd HDMI output is now an independent Zone 2 HDMI matrix output
--- (2) ALL digital signals (2.0 PCM only, but from HDMI or S/PDIF) can be played to Zone 2 speaker output
* The X3000 also adds DTS Neo:X as an alternative to Audyssey DSX for adding height/width channels instead of surr.back for 7ch configurations.
* The X4000 includes the new digital multizone goodies of the X3000, and then makes a monster splash by bringing some impressive "trickle down" features from the flagship 4520CI model:
--- (1) Audyssey MultEQ XT32 and SubEQ HT
--- (2) Audyssey LFC (low frequency containment)
--- (3) Although the X4000 is a 7ch receiver, it can now expand to 9ch with the addition of at least 2 channels of external amplification
When you factor in state-of-the-art XT32/SubEQ calibration, 9ch expansion capability, DTS Neo:X and Audyssey DSX, full digital multizone capability, HDMI zone matrix output, and Audyssey LFC, it's clear that Denon has positioned the X4000 to be a major player this year, taking direct aim at the Onkyo 818 and upping the ante in several key areas.
Wow, the X4000 sounds amazing! Is there any reason to fork over the extra coin for the 4520CI now??
While the X4000 appears to be a "baby 4520" with most of the important features, there are still some things the 4520 has that may entice people to step up to the flagship model:
1. The 4520 is larger and heavier, with a superior amp section rated to drive 4-ohm speakers.
2. The 4520 has better build quality; it's built in Japan (not China) and has higher quality speaker binding posts for example
3. The 4520 has 9 amps built in, and can expand to 11 channels (instead of 7/9 on the X4000)
4. The 4520 has 4 zones instead of 3; the HDMI Zone output is dedicated to Zone 4, leaving Zones 2/3 independent. On the X4000, the HDMI Zone output shares Zone 2.
5. The 4520 can output component video to Zones 2 and 3, meaning it's possible to distribute HD video to all 4 zones.
6. The 4520 has full 32-bit processing architecture, including 32-bit DAC's and AL32 processing (vs. the 24-bit analogues on the X4000).
7. The 4520 has more legacy (analog) input/output connectivity, including 7.1 multichannel analog inputs, and an extra component video input and output.
8. The 4520 has a built-in 4-port ethernet hub
9. The 4520 has an incredibly flexible Amp Assign configuration, including a "Custom" free assign mode which allows any reassignment of 6 out of the 9 amps. The X4000 has the standard Amp Assign template where only 2 out of the 7 amps are reassignable according to predetermined options.
That said, for most users, the X4000 will be a smarter choice and is really an amazing value, especially considering the critical additions of XT32/SubEQ calibration and the digital multizone options.