Denon AVR-X3800H Review – Best For Most

Denon AVR-X3800H Review

In the world of home entertainment, the Denon AVR-X3800H AV receiver stands as a remarkable testament to innovation and sophistication. This mid-range powerhouse is more than just an upgrade; it’s a future-proof cornerstone for any serious home cinema setup. Launched with a keen eye on evolving technology and user needs, the AVR-X3800H boasts enhanced processing capabilities and a comprehensive suite of cutting-edge features. From its 11.4 channel processing power handled by the advanced Griffin Lit XP processor to the flexibility of expanding to a 7.4.4 setup with external amps, this receiver is ready to deliver a refined, immersive audio experience.

What sets the AVR-X3800H apart is its commitment to versatility and longevity. With features like selective pre-amplifier mode and expansive 8K-ready HDMI 2.1 connectivity, it promises to adapt to future advancements in video and audio technology, ensuring it remains central to your home entertainment for years to come. Whether you’re setting up for the latest blockbuster or outfitting a sophisticated audio system, the AVR-X3800H marries advanced technology with user-friendly flexibility, making it a stellar choice for anyone looking to invest in their home cinema’s future.

Denon AVR-X3800H Build Quality and Design

The Denon AVR-X3800H maintains a traditional aesthetic that prioritizes function over flair. Sporting a utilitarian design characterized by straight lines and sharp corners, it embodies the classic black box look synonymous with many AV receivers. This model doesn’t aim to win design awards but focuses on delivering substantial audio performance. The front panel features a brushed metal texture and maintains a consistent layout seen in previous models, with a central display flanked by large, circular knobs for volume and source selection on the right and left respectively.

Beneath the source selection knob, the power button is subtly integrated, accompanied by a small LED indicator. A row of function buttons lies just below the display, offering quick access to various controls such as tuner adjustments, zone configurations, and brightness settings. While the design remains unchanged, which might seem dated to some, it aligns with Denon’s long-standing design philosophy emphasizing durability and usability over aesthetic novelty.

The AVR-X3800H is constructed to match its predecessors in terms of dimensions and weight, ensuring it fits seamlessly into existing setups without the need for additional accommodations. Its build is robust, meant to withstand the rigors of frequent use while maintaining the high performance standards Denon is known for. Despite some users’ hopes for a refreshed external design, Denon has chosen to maintain a consistent look, potentially hinting at a stable design approach for future units.

Denon AVR-X3800H Features

Advanced Channel Processing

The Denon AVR-X3800H boasts an impressive 11.4 channels of processing with the capability to directly amplify 9 channels. This feature ensures a flexible and immersive audio setup, allowing users to configure their home theater systems in multiple ways. For instance, you can start with a 5.1.4 configuration and expand to 7.1.4 with additional amplifiers. This adaptability benefits users who may want to upgrade their system gradually, offering the versatility to handle complex audio formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D out of the box.

HDMI 2.1 Support

All six HDMI inputs of the AVR-X3800H are equipped with the latest HDMI 2.1 standard, supporting up to 8K resolution at 60 Hz and 4K at 120 Hz. This feature is crucial for future-proofing your home theater, ensuring compatibility with the latest and upcoming video formats and gaming consoles. Users benefit from advanced video technologies such as HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), enhancing the viewing experience for movies and gaming.

HEOS Multi-Room Audio Technology

With built-in HEOS technology, the AVR-X3800H allows for a multi-room audio setup, seamlessly integrating with other compatible speakers and devices. This feature lets users enjoy synchronized audio playback across different rooms or play different tracks in each room. Whether hosting a party or enjoying a quiet day at home, HEOS technology ensures that high-quality sound fills your space exactly how you desire.

Enhanced Audio Calibration with Audyssey MultEQ XT32

The AVR-X3800H uses Audyssey MultEQ XT32 for advanced room calibration, adjusting the audio output to suit the specific acoustics of your space. This technology analyzes each speaker’s output to optimize the sound quality and balance, reducing room-related distortions and ensuring a clear and precise soundstage. Users benefit from an audio experience tailored to their listening environment, which is ideal for maximizing the performance of high-end speakers.

Extensive Wireless Connectivity

Equipped with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Apple AirPlay 2 support, the Denon AVR-X3800H offers versatile streaming options. Users can stream music directly from devices without physical connections, maintaining a clean and wire-free setup. This connectivity is especially beneficial in today’s streaming-centric media consumption landscape, allowing easy access to vast online music libraries and seamless integration with mobile devices.

Voice Control Compatibility

The AVR-X3800H is compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri, providing users the convenience of voice-controlled operation. This feature simplifies tasks like adjusting the volume, switching inputs, or pausing content without needing to reach for a remote or mobile device. It enhances the usability of the system, especially during social gatherings or when the physical controls are not within easy reach.

Each of these features demonstrates Denon’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology with user-friendly functionality, ensuring that the AVR-X3800H not only meets the current entertainment demands but also remains relevant as new technologies emerge.

Denon AVR-X3800H Connectivity

The Denon AVR-X3800H AV receiver offers a comprehensive suite of connectivity options that cater to both current technology standards and future upgrades, ensuring users can maximize their home entertainment setup’s potential. Here are some of the key connectivity features of the Denon AVR-X3800H:

HDMI 2.1 Support

The Denon AVR-X3800H is equipped with six HDMI inputs and three outputs, all supporting the HDMI 2.1 specification. This allows for 8K@60Hz and 4K@120Hz video pass-through, which is crucial for the latest gaming consoles and future-proofing your home theater for next-generation video content. These ports also support VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), QFT (Quick Frame Transport), ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), and FRL (Frame Rate Link), offering a smoother and more responsive viewing experience, especially beneficial for gamers.

High-Resolution Audio Streaming

With support for Apple AirPlay 2, HEOS, Spotify Connect, and Roon, the AVR-X3800H allows users to stream high-resolution audio effortlessly from a variety of sources. This flexibility enhances user convenience by providing easy access to vast online music libraries and seamless integration with multiple devices across different platforms.

Advanced Room Calibration Software

The AVR-X3800H uses Audyssey MultEQ XT32 for room calibration, adapting the sound to the room’s acoustics. This feature ensures optimized audio performance tailored to the specific environment, significantly enhancing the listening experience by compensating for any acoustic anomalies in the room.

Multi-Room Audio Capability

Integrated with Denon’s HEOS technology, the AVR-X3800H supports multi-room audio setups. This allows users to play music in different rooms simultaneously or different tracks in each room, all controlled through a single interface. It’s perfect for house parties or enjoying music throughout the home.

Voice Control Integration

Compatibility with popular voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri offers hands-free control of your AV receiver. This feature is particularly useful for performing tasks like adjusting volume, skipping tracks, or switching inputs without interrupting your activities.

Enhanced Connectivity for Vinyl Enthusiasts

The inclusion of a dedicated phono input accommodates vinyl lovers, allowing them to connect their turntables directly to the receiver. This feature caters to audiophiles who prefer the rich sound quality of vinyl records, integrating traditional media formats with modern audio systems.

USB and Bluetooth Connectivity

A front-panel USB port allows users to play high-resolution audio files directly from USB storage devices, supporting formats such as FLAC, ALAC, WAV, and DSD. Additionally, Bluetooth connectivity enables wireless streaming from smartphones, tablets, or computers, adding another layer of convenience for quick and easy playback.

These connectivity features of the Denon AVR-X3800H ensure that it not only meets the diverse needs of modern home theaters but also remains adaptable for future technologies, making it a versatile and future-proof choice for any audio-visual enthusiast.

Denon AVR-X3800H Sound Quality and Performance

The Denon AVR-X3800H is celebrated for its exceptional sound quality and performance, standing out as a robust mid-range AV receiver that brings cinematic sound into the home theater. Here’s how the sound quality and performance aspects are highlighted:

Refined Sound Quality

The Denon AVR-X3800H delivers a refined and warm sound, which is immediately noticeable when upgrading from older models. Reviewers have noted significant improvements in clarity and depth, making the audio experience more immersive. The receiver supports a variety of high-resolution audio formats, including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D, ensuring that it can deliver a three-dimensional sound space that enhances the realism of movies and music.

Powerful and Flexible Audio Processing

With 9.4 channels of built-in amplification and 11.4 channels of processing, the AVR-X3800H is capable of powering complex speaker setups, allowing users to create expansive audio environments. This is particularly beneficial for users looking to enjoy advanced home cinema configurations, supporting setups up to 7.4.4 channels with additional amplifiers.

Audyssey MultEQ XT32 Calibration

The inclusion of Audyssey MultEQ XT32, a sophisticated audio calibration system, helps to optimize the sound output for the specific acoustics of the listening environment. This system adjusts the audio to minimize room effects and ensures that every listener experiences the best possible sound quality, regardless of their seating position.

Enhanced Connectivity for High-Definition Audio

The AVR-X3800H comes equipped with six HDMI 2.1 inputs that support up to 8K video quality, along with compatibility for various HDR formats. This ensures that the audio quality is matched with exceptional video performance, making for a truly immersive viewing and listening experience. 

User Feedback

Feedback from users consistently highlights the clarity of sound and the ability of the receiver to bring out subtle audio details in music and movies, which may have been suppressed in other systems. Users appreciate the dynamic sound that accurately positions effects and dialogue, creating a convincing and powerful audio landscape.

Criticisms and Considerations

While the overall reception of the AVR-X3800H’s sound quality is overwhelmingly positive, some users have noted that the complexity of settings and adjustments can be a challenge. The user interface and manual could be improved to help less technically-savvy users make the most of the system’s capabilities. Additionally, some users have encountered compatibility issues with specific TV models, which could affect the ease of setup and integration.

Overall, the Denon AVR-X3800H is a powerful AV receiver that offers advanced sound technologies and versatile features that can significantly enhance the audio-visual experience in any home theater setup. Its ability to handle complex configurations and support for the latest audio formats make it a top choice for audiophiles and home cinema enthusiasts alike.

Denon AVR-X3800H Pros and Cons

Pros 

1. Advanced Audio Processing: Supports up to 11.4 channels of processing and 9.4 channels of amplification, enabling complex and immersive home theater setups.

2. High-Resolution Audio Support: Offers compatibility with various high-resolution audio formats including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Auro-3D, and IMAX Enhanced, ensuring detailed and dynamic sound reproduction.

3. Latest HDMI 2.1 Connectivity: Features six HDMI inputs and three outputs with full support for 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through, VRR, ALLM, and eARC, catering to future-proof demands and high-quality video requirements.

4. HEOS Multi-Room Audio Technology: Integrated HEOS technology allows for streaming and sharing music across a network of compatible devices throughout the home.

5. Sophisticated Room Calibration: Equipped with Audyssey MultEQ XT32, the most advanced Audyssey calibration, which fine-tunes the audio to the room’s acoustics, enhancing the overall listening experience.

6. Voice Control Compatibility: Supports voice control through Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri, providing convenient hands-free operation.

7. Versatile Streaming Capabilities: Includes built-in support for Spotify Connect, Apple AirPlay 2, and Bluetooth, allowing easy streaming from various devices and services.

8. Robust Build and Reliable Performance: Known for its sturdy construction and reliable performance, making it a durable choice for extensive use.

Cons 

1. Complex User Interface: Some users find the user interface and setup process to be complex and not very intuitive, especially for those who are not tech-savvy.

2. No Front HDMI Input: Lacks a front HDMI input, which can limit accessibility and convenience for quickly connecting portable devices.

3. Cost: Higher price point compared to its predecessor, making it a significant investment, which might not fit all budgets, especially considering the competitive features offered by other brands in the same price range.

These pros and cons highlight the balance between the advanced capabilities and potential drawbacks of the Denon AVR-X3800H, making it suitable for users looking for a high-end home theater experience but who are also willing to navigate some complexity in setup and use.

Conclusion – Denon AVR-X3800H

In conclusion, the Denon AVR-X3800H stands as a compelling choice for those seeking to elevate their home theater experience. Balancing advanced technology with user-centric features, this AV receiver delivers exceptional audio quality, supporting a wide array of formats including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D. Its inclusion of the latest HDMI 2.1 standards ensures it is future-proof, ready to handle 8K video and sophisticated gaming requirements.

Moreover, the AVR-X3800H excels in connectivity, with comprehensive streaming options and multi-room audio capabilities via HEOS. The Audyssey MultEQ XT32 calibration further refines its sound to suit any room’s acoustics, making it adaptable to various environments. However, potential buyers should consider the complexity of its setup and interface, which may pose challenges for those less technologically inclined. Additionally, its higher price point and the lack of a front HDMI input are considerations that might affect its appeal to some users.

Overall, the Denon AVR-X3800H is a robust, feature-packed receiver that promises to deliver top-tier performance, making it a worthwhile investment for serious home cinema enthusiasts. Whether upgrading from a previous model or setting up a new system, the AVR-X3800H is designed to impress with its sound quality and technological prowess.