Denon AVR-2308CI A/V Receiver Review

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by Gene DellaSala — last modified May 23, 2008

Summary

Product Name: AVR-2308CI A/V Receiver
Manufacturer: Denon Electronics
Performance Rating:
Value Rating:
Review Date: December 28, 2007 20:00
MSRP: $ 849

Specifications

100 watts x 7 into 8 ohms (20-20,000 Hz) at 0.05% THD
Dolby® Digital EX, DTS-ES™, DTS 96/24, Pro Logic® IIx, and DTS Neo:6 decoding
Audyssey MultEQ 6 point auto setup and room calibration system (microphone included)
XM Satellite Radio Ready (requires XM subscription and optional XM Mini-Tuner package)

Neural Surround decoder for XM's HD Surround channels
iPod® integration (requires optional Denon ASD-1R)
Compressed Audio Restorer for better sound with compressed music sources
Two-room/two-source output with powered and line-level stereo audio output for 2nd room (using powered 2nd room stereo output allows 5.1 home theater in main room)

Pure Direct modes switch off all unused circuitry for the cleanest possible sound
192kHz/24-bit DACs for all channels
Multibrand remote and second zone remote
1080p-compatible HDMI digital video switching (2 in, 1 out)
Analog-to-HDMI video upconversion (up to 1080p) with Faroudja DCDi™ video processing and scaling
HDMI version 1.3a with deep color support
Component video switching (3 in, 1 out)
Component video conversion (composite to S-video, or composite and S-video to component)
Digital inputs: 4 optical (including 1 front panel), 2 coaxial
Digital outputs: 1 optical
5 audio/video inputs
3 audio-only inputs (including phono)
7.1-channel analog audio preamp input
RS-232C port for automated control systems
2 sets of main speaker outputs
Back surround speaker channels re-assignable for bi-amping front left and right speakers
17-1/8"W x 6-3/4"H x 17-3/16"D
Weight: 29.5lbs
Warranty: 2 years

Pros

Great processing and amplification at this price
HDMI 1.3a Deep Color and Multi Channel PCM Support
Audyssey MultEQ
Superb bass management flexibility

Cons

No preamp outputs
Lame remote control
Long auto setup process
Lacks TrueHD and DTS-HD Decoding

Introduction

Denon once again proved they know how to build a better receiver by staying true to their roots and delivering more than advertised power and performance, unparalleled bass management flexibility and an overall solid, time tested platform. The AVR-2308CI is certainly one of the most versatile receivers I have tested at this price range carrying over many of the great features (independent channel trims per mode, independent crossover settings per speaker group, Audyssey MultEQ, HDMI upconversion with OSD support, etc) which until only recently, were found only on their flagship products. I walked away from this review amazed by the fidelity improvement of my parents system for every seat in their theater room thanks to the Audyssey room correction and solid amplification section bestowed upon the Denon AVR-2308CI.

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FSUguy posts on January 16, 2008 00:28

So I'm looking at getting this Denon AVR-2308Cl, but I wanted to run a few questions by you guys. First, is there anyway to Network this receiver? I read something on Denon's website about doing it with one of their ipod docks, but I basically want to stream audio and video to my receiver, any suggestions. Also, I was planning to go with the the Yamaha v661 for my system, but I am having second thoughts because of its lack of the ability to support the new Dolby and DTS formats used in Blu-Ray and HD DVD, which I am planning to purchase at a later date. I guess you could say I am trying to plan ahead. The system I'm putting together includes: Klipsch reference series center, ref 82's (most likely), ref sub 10, and just a pair of S-1's for my backs until I move into a new place with a bigger room. What do you guys think about the system. Sorry about all the questions, but I'm new to this myself.

Thanks!!

westcott posts on December 30, 2007 07:35

2string;349444
Could someone tell me how it sounds or are all AVR's about the same but with different connection options? Most topics are about what they have for connections for TV or DVD players,etc.I was just wondering how the sound quality is for dialog and music? I'm sure speakers have something to do with it but the receiver plays a big part to.

I will go out on a limb and say that comparably priced AV receivers sound comparable. What I have noticed is a decline in build quality from many of the mfgs I once respected. I had a HK for many years (25+) before it died. But, if you asked me to buy one of their lower to midrange systems today, I would have to pass. I have also been disappointed with Onkyo and their lower to midrange products. Not because they are not feature rich or lacking any technical edge, but because of heat and other reliability issues.

I think the competition has forced many mfgs to cut corners and it is beginning to show.

Does Denon sound better than the others. Probably not distinguishable by anyone but the most trained listener with reference quality speakers but I have been very happy with its performance over the last few years, build quality, and its reliablility.

I am also impressed with their attention to video and audio performance. They consistently outperform other mfgs if you combine these two prerequisites. I doubt few would argue that they are the leaders in video performance on a consistent basis.

Time will tell if Denon can maintain its position and still compete in todays cut throat market. I would hate to see their quality suffer in order to stay in business. Price before quality seems to be a theme that has taken over our country and it is a sad thing to watch. I hope it is not a trend that continues because America will (is paying) pay for our short sightedness.

2string posts on December 29, 2007 23:05

Could someone tell me how it sounds or are all AVR's about the same but with different connection options? Most topics are about what they have for connections for TV or DVD players,etc.I was just wondering how the sound quality is for dialog and music? I'm sure speakers have something to do with it but the receiver plays a big part to.

HiDefGuru posts on December 29, 2007 20:04

I love denon...

Thats it. I just love denon. lol

PENG posts on December 29, 2007 15:25

gus6464;349254
The US 1508, 1708, and 1908 all have preouts. The 2308CI is really the only one that doesn't.

I checked their website, none of those models has preouts but the ones before the 1908, 2308CI (example:1907, 2307CI) have preouts.