Skip to content. Skip to navigation
You are here: Home → Pro Reviews → A/V Receivers → Denon AVR-2308CI A/V Receiver Review
 

Denon AVR-2308CI A/V Receiver Review

Digg this story!
Post to del.icio.us
by Gene DellaSala — last modified May 22, 2008 20:24
Denon AVR-2308CI A/V Receiver Review

Buy It Now!

Summary

  • Product Name: AVR-2308CI A/V Receiver
  • Manufacturer: Denon Electronics
  • Performance Rating: StarStarStarStarhalf-star
  • Value Rating: StarStarStarStarhalf-star
  • Review Date: December 27, 2007
  • 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.
  1. AVR-2308CI Build Quality
  2. AVR-2308CI System Setup and Configuration
  3. AVR-2308CI Listening Tests
  4. AVR-2308CI Measurements & Analysis
  5. AVR-2308CI Conclusion
Discuss in Our Forum
Up to A/V Receivers ↑