This processor is not a product for a neophyte. It has nearly infinite configuration options to dial in optimal picture and sound quality that is best setup by a qualified installer or experienced home theater aficionado. While most home theater fans can run through the motions following the sub par users manual, you will want someone who can spend the time to install it properly that can really eek out all of the performance capabilities this system has to offer. The POA-A1HDCI amplifier is a good compliment to this processor since they aesthetically match each other and are also digitally linked together for easier assignability of channels and amplifier mode configurations. Make sure you’ve got plenty of rack space for these units as they are enormous and do run quite warm requiring adequate ventilation to keep them cool. Take the time to set this baby up correctly and it will reward you with great sonics and plenty of music streaming options to ensure you never run out of things to listen to.

Conclusion

The Denon AVP-A1HDCI represents bleeding edge technology that only a select few manufacturers can compete with regardless of price. This processor truly is a master of all domains. It’s not cheap to own this combo set from Denon, but such is the case with statement pieces and first implementers of new technologies. It’s a bit difficult to quantify its value as compared to their very own AVR-5308CI A/V receiver, it seems to be overpriced since the latter does mostly everything this processor does albeit maybe not as elegantly. But when you compare it to other more expensive “high end” processors, many of which don’t offer video processing and upscaling, room correction, or TrueHD / DTS HD decoding, it seems to be quite a bargain.

If you’re looking for the very best home theater separates solution, I highly recommend considering the Denon AVP-A1HDCI pre/pro and POA-A1HDCI ten channel power amp. While their model #’s aren’t impressive sounding, and the associated name doesn’t quite have the prestige of a Levinson or Krell, you can rest assured the Denon products have it where it counts in performance and features and are pound for pound a better value than virtually all of the super high end products on the market. From its Realta video processing engine, to its sophisticated Audyssey room correction, top notch construction and component usage, you’re getting Mercedes level performance and refinement at Acura prices. Your high end audio snob friends may snicker at this system, especially since they likely spent 2-3 times more for hollow boxes, but I suggest humbling yourself by saying nothing. You don’t want everyone driving the same car you’re driving, do you?

For more info, Visit the Denon AVP-A1HDCI product page.

Denon Electronics

www.usa.denon.com
100 Corporate Drive
Mahwah, N.J. 07430-2041

Denon AVP-A1HDCI MSRP: $7,000