Denon AVR-4306 Receiver Review
- Product Name: AVR-4306
- Manufacturer: Denon
- Performance Rating:
- Value Rating:
- Review Date: May 28, 2006 19:00
- MSRP: $ 1999
DSP: Analog Devices HammerHead SHARC 32 bit floating point DSP processor
Power Ratings
130 watts per channel (8 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, <.05%THD)
Audio DACs: Burr-Brown PCM-1791 24-bit/192 kHz on all eight channels, in differential configuration
Audio ADCs: 24-bit/192 kHz Burr-Brown PCM-1804 on all Stereo analog inputs (Not EXT. Inputs)
Crossover: 40, 60, 80, 100, 120, 150, 200, 250Hz (12/24dB)
Remote: Updated EL backlighting pre-programmed/learning remote with tactile buttons
Video Inputs: 3 HDMI-HDCP inputs, 3 (assignable) 100MHz component video, 7 sets composite and s-video inputs
Video Outputs: Dual 100MHz component video outputs, 3 composite and s-video outputs, Multi-Zone composite video output; HDMI-HDCP
Audio Inputs: 7.1 external wide bandwidth (100 kHz) multi-channel inputs, 5/7 Channel Stereo, DENON Link 3rd (SACD & DVD-Audio compatible), 7 assignable digital inputs (5 optical, 2 coaxial), 10 analogue inputs
Audio Outputs: 2 optical digital outputs, 2 multi-zone stereo pre-amp level audio outputs, fixed or variable level
Additional Connections: RS-232C port for third party control Systems, remote I/O ports, 2 assignable +12V triggers, detachable power cord
Dimensions: 17.1" W x 6.7" H x 16.9" D
Pros
- Upconversion to HDMI and component video
- Scaling to 720p or 1080i from 480/576i/p sources
- Redesigned remote control with more tactile buttons
- XM radio support
- iPod and USB connectivity
- Internet radio and network support
- Excellent detail and fidelity
Cons
- No IEEE 1394/Firewire interface
- No subwoofer parametric EQ in Audyssey MultEQxt
- EL remote lacks many essential controls
- Inaccurate Audyssey equalization results
Denon AVR-4306 Introduction
Denon's AVR-4306 was one of the most anticipated products of the year. With the AVR-4806 being out of reach for some and the AVR-3806 being perceived as a mid-fi product, the Audiophile community had expectations of where they could find an affordable, truly powerhouse 7.1 receiver. The AVR-4306 hits what I think of as an upper-mid-fi price point desired by so many of these quality and feature-conscious consumers. I wanted to get a good look at this receiver, play around with it, and find out exactly how well it would perform (and whether or not it was worth the extra money over its best-selling nephew, the AVR-3806.)
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