Correction, the X8500H has 2x 22,000uF capacitors not 27,000uF. The Denon AVR-A1H retail price is $6,499 and comes with a 5 year warranty. The AVR-A1H will likely do 150wpc x 5 ch driven no problem and 70% with 7CH driven or 105wpcx7. In fact, we confirmed with Denon engineering that they bench tested the A1H is able to maintain 70% power for up to 9 channels driven! We will be testing this to confirm. The dynamic power should be off the charts due to the very large power supply. The A1H will receive a formal review from us later this year with full bench tests and room correction comparison of DIRAC vs Audyssey. Stay tuned.... In the meantime, more product details here: www.audioholics.com/av-receiver-reviews/denon-avr-a1h
Well, I'm gonna tell you what. I purchased this AVR from Denon the same exact model, and I have 17 speakers connected to it, and it does not lack in power at all. It's very powerful still with all 17 speakers that's including four subwoofers connected to it,It rocks with more power to spare! I'm completely satisfied with my purchase I'm running all Klipsch, bookshelf speakers that sounds great and never distorted, even when they are being pushed to their limits.🤘🏼🤘🏼
Finally, I've been waiting for beast mode receivers to make a comeback and this might be my time to upgrade from my x6500h which is a great receiver, but I want something that's going to crack some skulls, LOL.
Trust me, go for it. This is an awesome AVR I own this product it's extremely powerful and I have 17 speakers connected to it. All Klipsch speakers sound fantastic, with four Klipsch subwoofers and more power to spare. I highly recommend this, Denon A1H AVR. If you do decide to purchase it You will not regret it. Very very powerful crisp and clear with lots of clean BASS and Great highs with plenty of options can you choose from. Go for it, get it!
I don't see many people coughing up $6500 to buy a receiver that does not actually have working Dirac, and most likely will never have the Dirac bass option. You'd be missing out on the main reason for going with Dirac. I don't get Denon's decision making here. Dirac has been out and stable for a long time now. They couldn't figure out how to get it working on launch day? Just my .02 cents.
@@level80888 Yeah, it is the future for sure. I don't think it will work on any device currently, other than the $20K+ devices that Dirac partnered with. I just can't believe Denon went through the trouble of adding Dirac and decided not to make the receiver work with the bass option.
Stay with pioneer ,i had sc55 loved it,until i upgraded to denonx8500h was a stupid mistake,hate the thing saving up going big avm90 i know i won't regret...and customer service also bad...couldn't get help ..you get connected to an overseas service that don't know anything...
@@blueflame0003 I just got an x8500h but can't set it up till construction of the house is completed. What didn't you like about it? Should I worry about anything? Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for your time!
@@tonyrobles9070 just one more thing...i bought the denonx8500h because so many reviews says it the best flagship...i now know most people on here would say any positive about a product for review...i think its harder when you reach the next level...i mow believe anything 5000 below is just entry level. Or average...good luck
X3600h cost me $800 and it has amplification Just give me a good processor under $1k with no amplification. Even under $2k Separates are best $7k makes no sense
Gene, Great "high altitude pass" on the new Denon Flagship! If it were not for the price tag on the A1H, I'd buy one and sell my nearly 10 year old Denon X7200Wa. But I'll have to wait for now
For less money, I just recently purchased an Anthem AVM 70 8k and and a Monolith 7X amp. I have them each plugged into their own dedicated 20 amp circuits so the units are completely isolated from each other. Admittedly, I will eventually need at least one more amp to take advantage of all the channels which would make the total price higher. I just can’t help but think that someone looking build a 15 channel theater would probably go with separates. I guess the 4 subwoofer outputs on the Denon are nice but I wouldn’t be able to fit 4 subs in my room.
This Denon AVR's will be discounted soon going by the ones already released. They are all overpriced, and Marantz prices are laughable. The Marantz AV 10 cost more with the same internals, no amps, somehow the word rip off comes to mind. ARC genesis is superior to Dirac live and is included in the price, Dirac ART should be superior to ARC Genesis, but how much will we have to pay over the price of the Denon AVR to use it when Denon brings it in on their AVR's.
I see they have gone two 9018 ESS Dacs on each channel. I remember my first Denon AVR 3801 with quad Dacs to each channel. Never found an AVR to match it for movie soundtracks. But what is the power at the heart of this AVR when it comes to sound processing. My X6700H has two griffine lite DSP chips. What are the DSP chips in this ARV?
I have a new center SVS Ultra speaker box that has 2 bass speakers too. 2 sets of input jacks. Not sure if I can just add a base connection to the second input or not. I need to replace my current Denon. They last me without problems for ten years.
Absolute monster but since I started looking at Trinnov's Altitude 16 processor I can't stop thinking about it. Completely bonkers sticker price but if this hobby is aspirational, it's good to know that someone is building gear at that level.
When dealers in the UK opened this receiver for pre order in Late November it was £5500/$6360 its gone up by £500 last month The Denon 8500 ha can be bought for £2500$3000 here in the UK £6000/$7240 this ain't gonna sell especially in this financial climate
Why waste XLR for subwoofer(s) out instead of the main LCR(s). At this pricing we are better off with the Marantz AV10 for processor. Are there more discrete DACs on this or the AV10.
Does anyone consider 15.4 to be way too overkill? I have a plain old 7.1 (front left/right, center, 2 rear surrounds ,back and one sub) and I'm okay with that. 9.2 is okay too as it would be nice to have two side channels but 15.4 seems a bit much. That's a lot of speakers to buy Thanks for the good information Gene
My Denon 4810 running 11 channels died recently so as a short term fix I set up my old Technics 5.1 100w receiver. I have to say I was surprised at how enveloping the sound is.
I know it's not the point but: for your Wii needs, you can buy an HDMI cable for it that does NOT do any upscaling. Basically it sends the NTSC signal over HDMI. Just make absolutely sure it's not one of those cables that do upscaling because those will introduce a lot of input latency.
The AVR-A1H uses analogue devices sharc DSP chip. What one I don't know. They normally make a lot of noise about the DSP chips they use in their units, but they are very quiet on the subject. I do wonder if the higher end X AVR's 6700 up would be able to process dirac live with a firmware update. Why would anybody buy the new models if they can use dirac live on their X AVR. Not many people can accommodate 4 subwoofers.
Gene I was wondering if the tactile output can be configured to only carry the LFE signal without the rest, which allows for bass shakers to be quiet during stereo listening.
This is cool but I wish they would move on to Class D amps with this many channels and power used. THAT would be innovation in the industry - a big player moving their flagship to it
Im a huge Denon fan. Will this Receiver match well with the Tekton Moabs? Ive noticed Gene and audioholics have never reviewed anything Tekton. Might be personal or something against them or the owner.
@@Audioholics Me too over here in the UK. My AV amp (no tuner hence the amp designation instead of receiver) is the venerable Denon 7.1 THX Ultra Two certified (no longer a big deal anymore) AVC-A11XV which I upgraded to an "A" version (and what a waste of money that was imo) in premium silver. I already have four Atmos speakers set up and i'm waiting patiently (hopefully) for Marantz to replace their present flagship (the SR8015) in the new Cinema series as mentioned above, maybe a 30 or 20??? I've waited long enough so another few months won't make any difference. As with peter march the design of the Denon's haven't changed much, in fact they're similar to my present AV amp which is approximately sixteen years old, also the design of the 8015 and its predecessors are looking that way now. The new Marantz 40 is 125 watts and not 11.2 whereas my AV amp is 140 watts (like the 8015) and 11.2. Marantz did a good job on their redesigned Cinema series, so here's hoping. By the way these new AV amps in the UK are also available in premium silver apart from the AMP 10 and the AV 10 which are only available in black.
I prob have no idea what I'm saying but I picked up another 3800h today and I seemed to have did what I wanted in auro3D, which is 5.1.6 to 7.1.8. But who knows I have no idea what I'm doing. Just plugged the output of one to the input of the 2nd, messed around in video option to turn monitor 1/2 to activate and I got sound, I already had picture. Then I go to to the speakers plug them in and it works, also the info button shows the channels active as intended. But again I'm prob looking at something wrong. So 15 channels 8 subs and I can add another native channel of vog through the 2nd avr so 16 channels I guess for half the price!? And the remote works for both...
Best home theater I ever had was powered by Denon. I wish I could buy their flagship receiver that’s only sold in Japan ( PMA SX1 Limited) Super tasty. The thirst!
The architecture is very reminiscent of the old Yamaha RX-V1 with pre and power amps separated by the 2 big heat sinks. I'm guessing the pre is in the middle and the 2 outer banks are power. Why not use that design, it works, and it works very well.
Finally the day has come!! Im still using my Yamaha RX Z 11 and still love it .. problem is I knew at some point I needed to upgrade and all this time I couldn’t find anything that was good enough to replace to RX Z 11 … but… that day has finally come .. I’m super excited about the new product and can’t wait to see the benchmark test. So far I’m using founder 100f along with founder 90c with 2 prestige 1000SW and it sounds absolutely fantastic.. so the question I have is with the RX Z 11 I have the subwoofer out set at stereo and and I love how it sounds very 3 dimensional. So is the Denon directional bass the same or different ? I’m curious to know
I'm first comment! Any current giveaway contests guys? I really wanted that Onkyo RZ50, Looking forward to more great content and contests! Love the channel ❤
Hey gene would love to see you review the new McIntosh MHT300 reciever which claims 150 watts to all 7 channels driven with DIRAC built in for around 7-8k
The thing looks like a beast. But out of my budget for now. But I really need to get a new AVR since my old Onkyo suddenly stopped putting out sound. I have not decided on what to get yet but I think it will be between the Yamaha RXV6A or the Denon avr-x1700h. Just having the WIFI & Bluetooth capability will be a massive quality of life improvement and convenience. The more cables I can cut out the better 😅
Sorry Gene, I jumped the Denon ship months ago when first you and later Steven Smith convinced me on Anthem. 😄 (BTW, *love* my new AVM-70 and the beta ARC, so I'm definitely happy about it.) The thing that surprises me is that they're making DL an upgrade on the flagship -- why not just include it? Seems like either a product marketing miss or a prideful mistake.
I’m really looking forward to Pioneer / Onkyo flagship receivers with class D, I’ve been patiently waiting but still awesome to see that manufacturers are making beefy receivers like this
I'm so upset with denon I bought a x3600h and the hdmi's are all fried. The got hot to hear you say that the hdmi's are built robustly on this unit is infuriating. I'm going back to Onkyo.
Hey Gene what another great video !! Denon & marantz are awesome . Just curious of the Sony flagship is there any words on that AVR? Being as tho you have the right tools to test it the proper way . Your not just any reviewer nothing against the job of the reviewers. But I want to make sure that Sony also is coming out it's not just all hype. Thanks Gene
@@Audioholics thanks @Gene for replying. Awesome !! I know besides the Denon 15.4 , the Sony av7000ex claim to do some things . But we will see . Thanks again @Gene
Why build such a beast as a receiver? If I'm spending that much I want separates, and I don't want that many amplifier channels smooshed into the same box as my processor, and probably not that many in one box period. [edit] - I will say however that the individual channel control for setting channels into pre-amp mode is deluxe, so at least if you had this you could drive your LCR channels with a higher powered external amp and probably not need any other external amps for the surround channels. The 8500 has this too, however, and it's around $2k cheaper, so that seems a pretty steep price just to add 2 additional channels of processing.
Very badazz reciever for sure Gene - but the Denon Poa 3000Rg @ 79 pounds (1990) Takes the W at 79 pounds 😆 Dam i would love for you to reciew that vintage monster that can be ran in monoblocks as well Thanks Gene
Does anyone consider 15.4 to be way too overkill? I have a plain old 5.1 (front left/right, center, 2 rear surrounds and one sub) and I'm okay with that. 7.1 is okay too as it would be nice to have two side channels but 15.4 seems a bit much. That's a lot of speakers to buy
Definitely not overkill. I own this Denon receiver the A1H AVR AND I HAVE ALL 17 SPEAKERS CONNECTED TO IT. IT SOUNDS GREAT, CLEAR WITH GREAT BASS PUNCH WITH MORE POWER TO SPARE RUNNING ALL KLIPSCH SPEAKERS AND SUBWOOFERS.
Right on guys, how many watts at 5,7 etc? Most people will have lots of other components, so are we talking about tripping breakers or are 5,7 channels really lower watts!? Just saw one new receiver actually advertising true power capabilities at 5 channels driven. I think it was a Marantz but can't recall off top of my head.
It will likely do 150wpc x 5 ch driven no problem and 70% with 9CH driven or 105wpcx9. We will be testing it. The dynamic power should be off the charts due to the very large power supply.
Digital technology implemented in top-of-the-line, in flagships AV processors (of different mass producers like the ones of the top 3 in the world - Denon, Marantz, Yamaha) has to be like flagships, top-of-the-line smartphone producers (Huawei, Xiaomi, Samsung, Apple, Honor). Because in digital tech, what is flagship component today, will become obsolete in just a year or two... This is why in 2023, I don't want to buy old, obsolete technology at an unjustified cost! Only the newest and best-performing components has to be used and I don't see this in AV10 or in the Denon AVR A1H... In regarding only to the audio side of the Marantz AV10... My level of expectations at 7000 USD (or even more) is that I need one AV unit to sound like a flagship stereo, on ALL channels... BTW... Be honest... who is using 15 channels configuration in a living room? Or kilometers of wires for zone 2 or zone 3 connections in which the end result is to play same music, instead of separate very good quality audio components in those rooms? We are not talking about hearing the same music in corridors or on an elevator of a hotel, because who really wants this? Sabre DAC ES 9018 used inside AV10? Why not at least ESS 9039Pro or AKM4191EQ? Or a dedicated very low noise stereo DAC in dual differential mode per each channel? As a top-of-the-line product in 2023, it should have! And where is HDCD decoding? Audiophile CD format is not dead, SACD is not dead, Dolby Digital is not dead... Even vinyl is not dead, and in 2023 we still not having a decent phono preamplifier for both MM and MC cartridges in a top-of-the-line AV processor... In the audiophile community, we are still spinning HDCD CDs, SACD discs, DVD Audio discs - and for HDCD, we need that decoder. Also...we are in 2023, right? ...where is streaming and decoding native DSD1024 audio files? I want to see ultra-low noise separate power supplies inside of a top of the line AV processor... This is the level of quality that I expect from a Marantz or Denon AV processor flagship, in 2023. RCA connectors are made from gold-plated brass? This is NOT desirable, because of brass low conductivity. It should be made at least from silver or gold-plated OFC copper (again... I'm modest...I'm not mentioning pure silver-made connectors...). I want to see OCC pure copper or OCC pure silver wires used in inside cabling! Talking further...what OP-AMP are used inside? No info here... Also, no info regarding SINAD with EQ in flat mode at max output volume. I want an upscaler even from DVD definition, to 4k and 8k resolution! Also, who is really using HEOS?? Especially in this high-end area... McIntosh is having same marketing policy... No detailed info in regarding inside components used, and no tech info regarding very important audio performance in their top-of-the-line AV processor... Only high prices! With all due respect for these companies, this is not acceptable.
Will this AVR-A1H support Dirac ART or not. Why are the owners of Denon being silent. If it won't with a future firmware upgrade, then I won't touch it with a barge pole. I will wait until another AVR manufacturer offer Dirac ART with their new product. I own a X6700H now and would like to upgrade to the new Denon AVR's, but I see it as a waste of money now if it means on their next generation of AVR's, include Dirac ART. The AVR will have to last me a number of years. I went to the X6700H after owning an Anthem AVR for 10 years.
Hmm, well I will have to leave my thoughts on this receiver, for I should have one, within a month, hopefully, assuming Best Buy, will be able to deliver, and get it set up, within the month… for anyone interested in buying this receiver from places like Best Buy, you have to go to the store, and ask them directly, about this receiver, for I think this receiver is only going to the distribution centers, so it will not be physically in a store, for demoing is sadly not going to happen, but I hope I continue to hear good things about the Denon A1H…
Okay I guess I should leave my thoughts here, after having it installed last week, so I have only watched about 2-3 of the transformer movies, where when the over head speakers are used, it does sound cool, and I think works rather well, we just need to encourage more use of all 6 Atmos height effect movies….
@@xsamittI still like it, but I am always willing to listen to more movies, I am always willing to take suggestions of good Atmos movies with height effects, or to even test movies, but I don’t buy much, movies…
To spend that much money on a AVR..You better have a cooling system on top , even with the large heat sinks...I have a/c infinity on my Sony that works well..Heat is a killer for electronics...Gene..if you get one..please test the temp coming out the top..
I cant imagine a single movie that I would need to, or even want to hear in 15.1 channels, let alone invest the kind of money it would take to set that up properly. Sorry, but Marvel commics and car crashes is not really my thing, and even if it were, well, see my first thought. A pair of stereo speakers with a decent amp. will do very nicely for watching the movie "Sideways" , and just about anything else I can think of on Netflix et al.
@@Audioholics Headphones? Yep. But only when someone is trying to sleep. Dont get me wrong, not criticizing you Audioholics guys, I read your E-Mails all the time, and find your discussions interesting, but, really, 15 channels to watch a Rom-Com? (My wife likes them).
@John Pylypchuk not everyone limits themselves to rom coms. Those serious about home theater build a dedicated space that can support a larger channel count. It's nice to have options.
At what point does this get ridiculous? Anything above 7.4.4 is ridiculous. And at this point, it would be a better investment to buy separates. I'd rather buy a nice separate 11 channel amp and keep it for twenty years while maybe upgrading to a less expensive ever changing preamp whenever there seems to be a reasonable jump in consumer technology. Call me old fashioned, but this new receiver here is beyond ridiculous. It will be outdated soon so it's a waste of money. More fashion than function. I love the conceptual idea of it, though and I love Denon. I think maybe Denon is trying to appeal to the crazies instead of presenting more realistic solutions to the average 7.4.4 or 7.4.2 users. Promote better affordable separates, maybe? To me, that would be trendsetting. I'd bet most people here would agree with me?
CLEMENTINE! Grab the kids and the possum! This here fancy fancy Denon aint gots no way for you to hook up your Wii Fitness whatchahoozit - how you gonna slim down to 400 pounds without your Nintendo? I'll bring around the Ford, looks like we going to Walmart after all.
its funny that this guy says power cords and cables are snake oil to 2 channel audio. while he promotes 15.4 channel home theater. Who in the world needs 15 speakers to watch a movie.
Hmm, people who have Atmos, or other 3D audio set ups (where you can have a 9.6, set up, which will use all 15 outputs, or you could use 13 outputs, for a 7.6 set up…, which is the point of Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and/or Auro-3D…
@Ryan Dabrowski most people can't even afford 1 set of good speakers let alone multiples, they're better off with one decent set than multiples of crap
@@ericschulze5641 that is probably true, but that is why these flagship receivers are being sold, it’s so those who can afford it, buy it, and have a decent if not great atmos effect… Its not like Denon said can we create a cheap 15.3 receiver, no, they said can we build a good middle of the road avr, that may cut off the bottom portion of the population, but at least those who can afford it, will at least know it’s an option…
dissapointment. People who can afford it will do next step and go separates. People who REALLY want to build best HT will go with Trinnov, bc no one AVR can beat it. Even $9,000 AV10 can not beat Trinnov. Even Mathew and his guest speaking of AV10 admit that "although it can not beat Trinnov its CHEAPER". All I need from Denon/Marantz is 7706 class device with 16.4 xlr out, Dirac (+ART) and price below $2,000. No matter how big transformer within these AVR are - any separates will sound better. Saying that all denon/marantz lineup above x3800h is irrelevant.
Trinnov isn't the answer for everything and far more costly than this. Most people don't need the capabilities of Trinnov. Trinnov also is 5 years behind in HDMI. If you're a gamer you can't beat Denon and Marantz.
X3600h with emotiva xpa 7 gen 3 ftw Less than $2-$3k spent. 7.2.4 Upgrade will be to anthem processor and Bassx emptiva for heights at some point. 2x4hd for subs is fantastic.
How do you know how good the Trinnov is compared to Arcam for example ? Trinnov is a $500 i5 computer and because they are all in house designs and have no economy of scale, you are literally paying about 18K on software...
Correction, the X8500H has 2x 22,000uF capacitors not 27,000uF.
The Denon AVR-A1H retail price is $6,499 and comes with a 5 year warranty.
The AVR-A1H will likely do 150wpc x 5 ch driven no problem and 70% with 7CH driven or 105wpcx7. In fact, we confirmed with Denon engineering that they bench tested the A1H is able to maintain 70% power for up to 9 channels driven! We will be testing this to confirm. The dynamic power should be off the charts due to the very large power supply. The A1H will receive a formal review from us later this year with full bench tests and room correction comparison of DIRAC vs Audyssey.
Stay tuned....
In the meantime, more product details here: www.audioholics.com/av-receiver-reviews/denon-avr-a1h
Please redo your intro. I love the content though.
@@TheCharlesAtoz You mean the bumper? I admittedly hate the sound to it as well.
@@TheCharlesAtoz It tests your system
Yamaha Z11 from 2008, has 2x 27,000uF capacitors.
Well, I'm gonna tell you what. I purchased this AVR from Denon the same exact model, and I have 17 speakers connected to it, and it does not lack in power at all. It's very powerful still with all 17 speakers that's including four subwoofers connected to it,It rocks with more power to spare! I'm completely satisfied with my purchase I'm running all Klipsch, bookshelf speakers that sounds great and never distorted, even when they are being pushed to their limits.🤘🏼🤘🏼
Finally, I've been waiting for beast mode receivers to make a comeback and this might be my time to upgrade from my x6500h which is a great receiver, but I want something that's going to crack some skulls, LOL.
Trust me, go for it. This is an awesome AVR I own this product it's extremely powerful and I have 17 speakers connected to it. All Klipsch speakers sound fantastic, with four Klipsch subwoofers and more power to spare. I highly recommend this, Denon A1H AVR.
If you do decide to purchase it You will not regret it. Very very powerful crisp and clear with lots of clean BASS and Great highs with plenty of options can you choose from. Go for it, get it!
Thanks for a great video! Reciving my A1H in two weeks, cannot wait🤩🤩
Trust me, you're gonna love it I love mine.
Hello Gene how does this compare to the Arcam AvR31 or the Marantz AV10?
I don't see many people coughing up $6500 to buy a receiver that does not actually have working Dirac, and most likely will never have the Dirac bass option. You'd be missing out on the main reason for going with Dirac. I don't get Denon's decision making here. Dirac has been out and stable for a long time now. They couldn't figure out how to get it working on launch day? Just my .02 cents.
forget Dirac Bass.Dirac active room treatment is new hype and I bet it will NOT work on current gen.🤦🏻♂️
@@level80888 Yeah, it is the future for sure. I don't think it will work on any device currently, other than the $20K+ devices that Dirac partnered with.
I just can't believe Denon went through the trouble of adding Dirac and decided not to make the receiver work with the bass option.
The dirac live bass control option is available for this and other Denon models. So you were wrong my friend
I had the Pioneer VSX-59 for over a decade. Those flagship receivers pack a huge punch and are backbreaking- figuratively and literally!
Stay with pioneer ,i had sc55 loved it,until i upgraded to denonx8500h was a stupid mistake,hate the thing saving up going big avm90 i know i won't regret...and customer service also bad...couldn't get help ..you get connected to an overseas service that don't know anything...
@@blueflame0003 I just got an x8500h but can't set it up till construction of the house is completed. What didn't you like about it? Should I worry about anything? Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for your time!
@@tonyrobles9070 just one more thing...i bought the denonx8500h because so many reviews says it the best flagship...i now know most people on here would say any positive about a product for review...i think its harder when you reach the next level...i mow believe anything 5000 below is just entry level. Or average...good luck
@@blueflame0003 Thanks so much for the info! I really appreciate it and appreciate your time! Have a fantastic weekend sir! 👍
@@tonyrobles9070 your welcome enjoy the weekend and superbowl party 🥳
X3600h cost me $800 and it has amplification
Just give me a good processor under $1k with no amplification. Even under $2k
Separates are best
$7k makes no sense
These new AVRs are so feature packed nowadays…. They really come in at a great price point too, as not everyone can afford separates….
I still have the original beast- the AVR-5800. Now 23 years old!
Gene, Great "high altitude pass" on the new Denon Flagship! If it were not for the price tag on the A1H, I'd buy one and sell my nearly 10 year old Denon X7200Wa. But I'll have to wait for now
For less money, I just recently purchased an Anthem AVM 70 8k and and a Monolith 7X amp. I have them each plugged into their own dedicated 20 amp circuits so the units are completely isolated from each other. Admittedly, I will eventually need at least one more amp to take advantage of all the channels which would make the total price higher. I just can’t help but think that someone looking build a 15 channel theater would probably go with separates. I guess the 4 subwoofer outputs on the Denon are nice but I wouldn’t be able to fit 4 subs in my room.
or better yet, get an Anthem receiver and add an amp for the 3 front channels and your receiver for the rest.
Great choice
This Denon AVR's will be discounted soon going by the ones already released. They are all overpriced, and Marantz prices are laughable. The Marantz AV 10 cost more with the same internals, no amps, somehow the word rip off comes to mind. ARC genesis is superior to Dirac live and is included in the price, Dirac ART should be superior to ARC Genesis, but how much will we have to pay over the price of the Denon AVR to use it when Denon brings it in on their AVR's.
What a worthy successor to the X8500HA
I see they have gone two 9018 ESS Dacs on each channel. I remember my first Denon AVR 3801 with quad Dacs to each channel. Never found an AVR to match it for movie soundtracks. But what is the power at the heart of this AVR when it comes to sound processing. My X6700H has two griffine lite DSP chips. What are the DSP chips in this ARV?
I have a new center SVS Ultra speaker box that has 2 bass speakers too. 2 sets of input jacks. Not sure if I can just add a base connection to the second input or not. I need to replace my current Denon. They last me without problems for ten years.
Absolute monster but since I started looking at Trinnov's Altitude 16 processor I can't stop thinking about it. Completely bonkers sticker price but if this hobby is aspirational, it's good to know that someone is building gear at that level.
i want to hear the trinnov so bad
When dealers in the UK opened this receiver for pre order in Late November it was £5500/$6360 its gone up by £500 last month The Denon 8500 ha can be bought for £2500$3000 here in the UK £6000/$7240 this ain't gonna sell especially in this financial climate
I’d have to agree.
Why waste XLR for subwoofer(s) out instead of the main LCR(s).
At this pricing we are better off with the Marantz AV10 for processor. Are there more discrete DACs on this or the AV10.
Does anyone consider 15.4 to be way too overkill? I have a plain old 7.1 (front left/right, center, 2 rear surrounds ,back and one sub) and I'm okay with that. 9.2 is okay too as it would be nice to have two side channels but 15.4 seems a bit much. That's a lot of speakers to buy Thanks for the good information Gene
My Denon 4810 running 11 channels died recently so as a short term fix I set up my old Technics 5.1 100w receiver. I have to say I was surprised at how enveloping the sound is.
Replacing my current Denon. The 13.x would do it but I'm not dead yet so 15.4 might be better since these last at least 10 years and I might too.
I know it's not the point but: for your Wii needs, you can buy an HDMI cable for it that does NOT do any upscaling. Basically it sends the NTSC signal over HDMI.
Just make absolutely sure it's not one of those cables that do upscaling because those will introduce a lot of input latency.
The AVR-A1H uses analogue devices sharc DSP chip. What one I don't know. They normally make a lot of noise about the DSP chips they use in their units, but they are very quiet on the subject. I do wonder if the higher end X AVR's 6700 up would be able to process dirac live with a firmware update. Why would anybody buy the new models if they can use dirac live on their X AVR. Not many people can accommodate 4 subwoofers.
...........additionally, hey, whatever floats your boat. Go for it!
Gene I was wondering if the tactile output can be configured to only carry the LFE signal without the rest, which allows for bass shakers to be quiet during stereo listening.
I believe so but will confirm.
This is cool but I wish they would move on to Class D amps with this many channels and power used. THAT would be innovation in the industry - a big player moving their flagship to it
Agreed but this is still impressive
yes, it’s just coming down to a Receptacle issue.
You wonder why they didn't use Class D? More power, better SNR, lighter, cooler.
@@briansmith4241 more costly to implement
Can i get a link to the bench test results for this if there is one? Plz.
Im a huge Denon fan. Will this Receiver match well with the Tekton Moabs? Ive noticed Gene and audioholics have never reviewed anything Tekton. Might be personal or something against them or the owner.
Wish I could be at live event! Someone's going to get those beautiful speakers 👍
agreed. they look fantastic!
They have hdmi converters too
I'm hoping that marantz will bring out a direct replacement for the SR8015 as I think the Denon design is looking a bit dated, maybe cinema 30?
I have the same hopes. Fingers crossed.
@@Audioholics Me too over here in the UK. My AV amp (no tuner hence the amp designation instead of receiver) is the venerable Denon 7.1 THX Ultra Two certified (no longer a big deal anymore) AVC-A11XV which I upgraded to an "A" version (and what a waste of money that was imo) in premium silver. I already have four Atmos speakers set up and i'm waiting patiently (hopefully) for Marantz to replace their present flagship (the SR8015) in the new Cinema series as mentioned above, maybe a 30 or 20??? I've waited long enough so another few months won't make any difference. As with peter march the design of the Denon's haven't changed much, in fact they're similar to my present AV amp which is approximately sixteen years old, also the design of the 8015 and its predecessors are looking that way now. The new Marantz 40 is 125 watts and not 11.2 whereas my AV amp is 140 watts (like the 8015) and 11.2. Marantz did a good job on their redesigned Cinema series, so here's hoping. By the way these new AV amps in the UK are also available in premium silver apart from the AMP 10 and the AV 10 which are only available in black.
i think the same..should be Cinema 30
I prob have no idea what I'm saying but I picked up another 3800h today and I seemed to have did what I wanted in auro3D, which is 5.1.6 to 7.1.8. But who knows I have no idea what I'm doing. Just plugged the output of one to the input of the 2nd, messed around in video option to turn monitor 1/2 to activate and I got sound, I already had picture. Then I go to to the speakers plug them in and it works, also the info button shows the channels active as intended. But again I'm prob looking at something wrong. So 15 channels 8 subs and I can add another native channel of vog through the 2nd avr so 16 channels I guess for half the price!? And the remote works for both...
If I don't need this, is the X4800 good enough with easy to drive speakers?
Plenty good enough for sure.
My thing about the 4800…isn’t it just better to go with a 3800 and an amplifier?
Best home theater I ever had was powered by Denon. I wish I could buy their flagship receiver that’s only sold in Japan ( PMA SX1 Limited) Super tasty. The thirst!
That's not true, the Denon AVR flagship receiver, their A1H is available here in the states I own it,
Get one. it's amazing! You will not regret it!
The architecture is very reminiscent of the old Yamaha RX-V1 with pre and power amps separated by the 2 big heat sinks. I'm guessing the pre is in the middle and the 2 outer banks are power. Why not use that design, it works, and it works very well.
For that amount of money for a receiver, I would rather have separate components. Are the days of Preamp Processors gone?
I like the quality, sound and power of the McIntosh mht300 and it will last forever.
Finally the day has come!! Im still using my Yamaha RX Z 11 and still love it .. problem is I knew at some point I needed to upgrade and all this time I couldn’t find anything that was good enough to replace to RX Z 11 … but… that day has finally come .. I’m super excited about the new product and can’t wait to see the benchmark test. So far I’m using founder 100f along with founder 90c with 2 prestige 1000SW and it sounds absolutely fantastic.. so the question I have is with the RX Z 11 I have the subwoofer out set at stereo and and I love how it sounds very 3 dimensional. So is the Denon directional bass the same or different ? I’m curious to know
It can be if you set 2 sub front left and right positions.
Z11 has some gas in it still its still a great receiver even today l would wait till it gives up the ghost no rush.
A friend has 4 subs running of his Z11 WOW
I'm first comment! Any current giveaway contests guys? I really wanted that Onkyo RZ50, Looking forward to more great content and contests! Love the channel ❤
I really wish Denon would come out with their own Separates. The Denon atheistic is so much more pleasing than the Marantz port holes.
Hey gene would love to see you review the new McIntosh MHT300 reciever which claims 150 watts to all 7 channels driven with DIRAC built in for around 7-8k
The thing looks like a beast. But out of my budget for now. But I really need to get a new AVR since my old Onkyo suddenly stopped putting out sound. I have not decided on what to get yet but I think it will be between the Yamaha RXV6A or the Denon avr-x1700h. Just having the WIFI & Bluetooth capability will be a massive quality of life improvement and convenience. The more cables I can cut out the better 😅
Has anyone compared the preouts to the Marantz 8015?
What is the sound processor used. Is it still the sharc Griffin light x2
Sorry Gene, I jumped the Denon ship months ago when first you and later Steven Smith convinced me on Anthem. 😄 (BTW, *love* my new AVM-70 and the beta ARC, so I'm definitely happy about it.)
The thing that surprises me is that they're making DL an upgrade on the flagship -- why not just include it? Seems like either a product marketing miss or a prideful mistake.
I’m really looking forward to Pioneer / Onkyo flagship receivers with class D, I’ve been patiently waiting but still awesome to see that manufacturers are making beefy receivers like this
What is the chance of them receiving a flag ship 15.4 processor?
Marantz AV 10 is your answer for now.
@@Audioholics ahead of the Anthem AVM90?
Watching this on my Denon 4806 bedroom setup
I'm so upset with denon I bought a x3600h and the hdmi's are all fried. The got hot to hear you say that the hdmi's are built robustly on this unit is infuriating. I'm going back to Onkyo.
I bet these sound as good or better than the Denon Anniversary Edition PMA-A110. Weigh in if you can @Gene!
Hey Gene what another great video !! Denon & marantz are awesome . Just curious of the Sony flagship is there any words on that AVR? Being as tho you have the right tools to test it the proper way . Your not just any reviewer nothing against the job of the reviewers. But I want to make sure that Sony also is coming out it's not just all hype. Thanks Gene
We are getting in the Sony flagship to test. I'm excited for this one too!
i wanna see that….
👀 👁 🙈
@@Audioholics thanks @Gene for replying. Awesome !! I know besides the Denon 15.4 , the Sony av7000ex claim to do some things . But we will see . Thanks again @Gene
Got mine two weeks ago!
how are you liking it?
Will audiohaulics be reviewing the new Sony ES lineup??
Yes
Does it have 5th leg :)
Bonjour comparé au arcam avr 31 lesquels est le mieux
Why build such a beast as a receiver? If I'm spending that much I want separates, and I don't want that many amplifier channels smooshed into the same box as my processor, and probably not that many in one box period.
[edit] - I will say however that the individual channel control for setting channels into pre-amp mode is deluxe, so at least if you had this you could drive your LCR channels with a higher powered external amp and probably not need any other external amps for the surround channels. The 8500 has this too, however, and it's around $2k cheaper, so that seems a pretty steep price just to add 2 additional channels of processing.
The heat that these amps now create is getting out of control ... Hope they really have upgraded the HDMI boards considering past problems ...
The HDMI boards have huge heatsinks.
what are those speakers that you are running in the background?
Revel F328be
Very badazz reciever for sure Gene -
but the Denon Poa 3000Rg @ 79 pounds (1990) Takes the W at 79 pounds 😆 Dam i would love for you to reciew that vintage monster that can be ran in monoblocks as well Thanks Gene
Does anyone consider 15.4 to be way too overkill? I have a plain old 5.1 (front left/right, center, 2 rear surrounds and one sub) and I'm okay with that. 7.1 is okay too as it would be nice to have two side channels but 15.4 seems a bit much. That's a lot of speakers to buy
how you plan to listen Atmos mixes without overhead channels?
Definitely not overkill. I own this Denon receiver the A1H AVR AND I HAVE ALL 17 SPEAKERS CONNECTED TO IT. IT SOUNDS GREAT, CLEAR WITH GREAT BASS PUNCH WITH MORE POWER TO SPARE RUNNING ALL KLIPSCH SPEAKERS AND SUBWOOFERS.
wow 😍
Gene loves future Boat anchors. 😇😅 just like da old days…
That can be said about any audio products.
Right on guys, how many watts at 5,7 etc? Most people will have lots of other components, so are we talking about tripping breakers or are 5,7 channels really lower watts!? Just saw one new receiver actually advertising true power capabilities at 5 channels driven. I think it was a Marantz but can't recall off top of my head.
It will likely do 150wpc x 5 ch driven no problem and 70% with 9CH driven or 105wpcx9. We will be testing it. The dynamic power should be off the charts due to the very large power supply.
@@Audioholics It would be interesting to see it turned up, 5 or 7 channels driven and put on an amp meter. 🤔
Can it do 300W into 4 0hm across the front 3 channels
I think it's very conceivable to be close to that since the unit is capable of delivering > 1000 watts with 9CH driven.
@Audioholics Gene you may have to put it to the Test.
Digital technology implemented in top-of-the-line, in flagships AV processors (of different mass producers like the ones of the top 3 in the world - Denon, Marantz, Yamaha) has to be like flagships, top-of-the-line smartphone producers (Huawei, Xiaomi, Samsung, Apple, Honor). Because in digital tech, what is flagship component today, will become obsolete in just a year or two... This is why in 2023, I don't want to buy old, obsolete technology at an unjustified cost! Only the newest and best-performing components has to be used and I don't see this in AV10 or in the Denon AVR A1H... In regarding only to the audio side of the Marantz AV10... My level of expectations at 7000 USD (or even more) is that I need one AV unit to sound like a flagship stereo, on ALL channels... BTW... Be honest... who is using 15 channels configuration in a living room? Or kilometers of wires for zone 2 or zone 3 connections in which the end result is to play same music, instead of separate very good quality audio components in those rooms? We are not talking about hearing the same music in corridors or on an elevator of a hotel, because who really wants this? Sabre DAC ES 9018 used inside AV10? Why not at least ESS 9039Pro or AKM4191EQ? Or a dedicated very low noise stereo DAC in dual differential mode per each channel? As a top-of-the-line product in 2023, it should have! And where is HDCD decoding? Audiophile CD format is not dead, SACD is not dead, Dolby Digital is not dead... Even vinyl is not dead, and in 2023 we still not having a decent phono preamplifier for both MM and MC cartridges in a top-of-the-line AV processor... In the audiophile community, we are still spinning HDCD CDs, SACD discs, DVD Audio discs - and for HDCD, we need that decoder. Also...we are in 2023, right? ...where is streaming and decoding native DSD1024 audio files? I want to see ultra-low noise separate power supplies inside of a top of the line AV processor... This is the level of quality that I expect from a Marantz or Denon AV processor flagship, in 2023. RCA connectors are made from gold-plated brass? This is NOT desirable, because of brass low conductivity. It should be made at least from silver or gold-plated OFC copper (again... I'm modest...I'm not mentioning pure silver-made connectors...). I want to see OCC pure copper or OCC pure silver wires used in inside cabling! Talking further...what OP-AMP are used inside? No info here... Also, no info regarding SINAD with EQ in flat mode at max output volume. I want an upscaler even from DVD definition, to 4k and 8k resolution! Also, who is really using HEOS?? Especially in this high-end area... McIntosh is having same marketing policy... No detailed info in regarding inside components used, and no tech info regarding very important audio performance in their top-of-the-line AV processor... Only high prices! With all due respect for these companies, this is not acceptable.
2nd, the most important thing to me is yes how many watts at 5.1 and 7.1 driven
It will very likely hit rated 150wpc with 5CH driven and at least 70% of that with 7CH driven.
Will this AVR-A1H support Dirac ART or not. Why are the owners of Denon being silent. If it won't with a future firmware upgrade, then I won't touch it with a barge pole. I will wait until another AVR manufacturer offer Dirac ART with their new product. I own a X6700H now and would like to upgrade to the new Denon AVR's, but I see it as a waste of money now if it means on their next generation of AVR's, include Dirac ART. The AVR will have to last me a number of years. I went to the X6700H after owning an Anthem AVR for 10 years.
Thanks Gene!
Im really waiting for a 7.2.4 AVR that doesn't cost more than my television
EMOTIVA BASX MR1 review please
no Dirac, no Auro3D. Pass.
Rather have AV pre for this budget..spending thousands on flagship avr is not economical in the long run
Hmm, well I will have to leave my thoughts on this receiver, for I should have one, within a month, hopefully, assuming Best Buy, will be able to deliver, and get it set up, within the month… for anyone interested in buying this receiver from places like Best Buy, you have to go to the store, and ask them directly, about this receiver, for I think this receiver is only going to the distribution centers, so it will not be physically in a store, for demoing is sadly not going to happen, but I hope I continue to hear good things about the Denon A1H…
Okay I guess I should leave my thoughts here, after having it installed last week, so I have only watched about 2-3 of the transformer movies, where when the over head speakers are used, it does sound cool, and I think works rather well, we just need to encourage more use of all 6 Atmos height effect movies….
@@RyanDabrowskiBoilerUp How are you feeling about the unit since your last post?
@@xsamittI still like it, but I am always willing to listen to more movies, I am always willing to take suggestions of good Atmos movies with height effects, or to even test movies, but I don’t buy much, movies…
The old highend recievers we're the BEST full rated power across all channels you don't get that anymore hope this changes.
How much?
$6,499 MSRP
To spend that much money on a AVR..You better have a cooling system on top , even with the large heat sinks...I have a/c infinity on my Sony that works well..Heat is a killer for electronics...Gene..if you get one..please test the temp coming out the top..
Agreed. Time to cook some eggs. 😆
🤩
Gene! More channels for Bouncy House Speakers...Lol...Just kidding Gene!
Haha, NO!
@@Audioholics Lol! Every now and then, I run into a few die hard Bouncy House soldier's who are dead set on that type of sound...
I cant imagine a single movie that I would need to, or even want to hear in 15.1 channels, let alone invest the kind of money it would take to set that up properly. Sorry, but Marvel commics and car crashes is not really my thing, and even if it were, well, see my first thought. A pair of stereo speakers with a decent amp. will do very nicely for watching the movie "Sideways" , and just about anything else I can think of on Netflix et al.
Just get headphones and call it a day.
@@Audioholics Headphones? Yep. But only when someone is trying to sleep. Dont get me wrong, not criticizing you Audioholics guys, I read your E-Mails all the time, and find your discussions interesting, but, really, 15 channels to watch a Rom-Com? (My wife likes them).
@John Pylypchuk not everyone limits themselves to rom coms. Those serious about home theater build a dedicated space that can support a larger channel count. It's nice to have options.
I hope your going to still measure the A1H gene even though Matt is doing the review.
I will definitely be involved in this process.
@@Audioholics I was always a little disappointed in your x8500h review, because Theo did it and obviously couldn't measure it.
@@Edward135i I know. I wish I had more time to measure all of these.
@@Audioholics me too, I hate having to use ASR, because I think Amirm can be a bit of a nut. his review of the x3800h was just plain stupid.
@@Edward135i yea Amir is very arrogant and makes recommendations almost solely on inaudible measurement parameters.
Where does it stop? When the entire room is full of speakers, thats when.
You forgot the floors too 😉
@@Audioholics I heard that's in the next model!
Gene, just find a used Wii-U. All your Wii games via HDMI.
Hmm I didn't know they were backward compatible. The motion controllers work with it too?
or just emulate if you have a htpc
@@Audioholics yes they’re fully backwards compatible with Wii games and controls. I was going to suggest this too. Cheers Gene!
@@Audioholics Yes sir. Though I still have my Wii for GameCube titles.
At what point does this get ridiculous? Anything above 7.4.4 is ridiculous. And at this point, it would be a better investment to buy separates. I'd rather buy a nice separate 11 channel amp and keep it for twenty years while maybe upgrading to a less expensive ever changing preamp whenever there seems to be a reasonable jump in consumer technology. Call me old fashioned, but this new receiver here is beyond ridiculous. It will be outdated soon so it's a waste of money. More fashion than function. I love the conceptual idea of it, though and I love Denon. I think maybe Denon is trying to appeal to the crazies instead of presenting more realistic solutions to the average 7.4.4 or 7.4.2 users. Promote better affordable separates, maybe? To me, that would be trendsetting. I'd bet most people here would agree with me?
Why is more than 7.4.4 ridiculous? Why not 9.4.6? Why not 5.2.2?
@@jvonengeln yeah, he seems to think everyone in the world has the same sized room as him
my AVR Denon AVR 5700 just died on me
$6,499 🤔
CLEMENTINE! Grab the kids and the possum! This here fancy fancy Denon aint gots no way for you to hook up your Wii Fitness whatchahoozit - how you gonna slim down to 400 pounds without your Nintendo? I'll bring around the Ford, looks like we going to Walmart after all.
LOL
Wow just like the new Transformers movie in Beast mode, for a home cinema great, but too much for a livingroom?
LOL it's never too much when you're an Audioholic 😁
🤤
its funny that this guy says power cords and cables are snake oil to 2 channel audio. while he promotes 15.4 channel home theater. Who in the world needs 15 speakers to watch a movie.
Exactly 4.2 should take care of 90% of consumers, & less likely to break so 8.4 should take care of everybody
Single speaker mono for the win.
Hmm, people who have Atmos, or other 3D audio set ups (where you can have a 9.6, set up, which will use all 15 outputs, or you could use 13 outputs, for a 7.6 set up…, which is the point of Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and/or Auro-3D…
@Ryan Dabrowski most people can't even afford 1 set of good speakers let alone multiples, they're better off with one decent set than multiples of crap
@@ericschulze5641 that is probably true, but that is why these flagship receivers are being sold, it’s so those who can afford it, buy it, and have a decent if not great atmos effect… Its not like Denon said can we create a cheap 15.3 receiver, no, they said can we build a good middle of the road avr, that may cut off the bottom portion of the population, but at least those who can afford it, will at least know it’s an option…
dissapointment. People who can afford it will do next step and go separates. People who REALLY want to build best HT will go with Trinnov, bc no one AVR can beat it. Even $9,000 AV10 can not beat Trinnov. Even Mathew and his guest speaking of AV10 admit that "although it can not beat Trinnov its CHEAPER". All I need from Denon/Marantz is 7706 class device with 16.4 xlr out, Dirac (+ART) and price below $2,000. No matter how big transformer within these AVR are - any separates will sound better. Saying that all denon/marantz lineup above x3800h is irrelevant.
and i want all of that for $1,000.
Trinnov isn't the answer for everything and far more costly than this. Most people don't need the capabilities of Trinnov. Trinnov also is 5 years behind in HDMI. If you're a gamer you can't beat Denon and Marantz.
X3600h with emotiva xpa 7 gen 3 ftw
Less than $2-$3k spent. 7.2.4
Upgrade will be to anthem processor and Bassx emptiva for heights at some point.
2x4hd for subs is fantastic.
How do you know how good the Trinnov is compared to Arcam for example ? Trinnov is a $500 i5 computer and because they are all in house designs and have no economy of scale, you are literally paying about 18K on software...
@@totalplonker824 Have you heard it? Arcam to my ears has a dryer sounding signature.