Denon, Marantz Receivers Get DTS Virtual:X Firmware Update

Sound United, the conglomerate that has united several high-end audio equipment manufacturers, along with DTS, has announced that an important firmware upgrade for several Denon and Marantz A/V receivers is now available. The update will bring DTS Virtual:X capabilities to several of the company’s most popular receivers, giving them a nice boost to their surround capabilities.

DTS Virtual:X launched last summer to a variety of audio products, including sound bar systems with the promise of adding deeper “virtual” surround capabilities from any input source. Whether you’re running a soundbar, stereo, 5.1, 7.1 or a 7.1.4 (11.1) sound system, DTS says Virtual:X will expand the audio experience without the need for extra speakers.

"With the introduction of DTS Virtual:X technology, listeners can enjoy height and surround sound with simply a sound bar, making it more accessible and affordable than ever to experience the benefits of immersive audio at home." Says Joanna Skrdlant, General Manager, Home Audio at Xperi, the parent company of DTS.

DTS research shows, unsurprisingly, that when most of us buy a new multi-channel A/V receiver, we’re not hooking up the full number of speakers through which the system is capable of delivering sound. Apparently many consumers don’t bother using surround speakers at all, and an even greater number of us aren’t using height speakers. DTS Virtual:X gives us an audio mode that provides “virtual” channels to fill out our home theater experience, including rear and height, despite us not covering those channels with speakers.

Is your Denon or Marantz A/V receiver getting the firmware update?

Models getting the DTS Virtual:X firmware update:

Denon

• AVR-S730H (US only)
• AVR-S930H (US only)
• AVR-X1400H
• AVR-X2400H
• AVR-X3400H

Marantz

• NR1608
• SR5012

Even more DTS X Denon and Marantz receivers are due for their firmware updates through December 2017 and January 2018.

“We are proud to announce that our customers will now be able to update select A/V receivers to incorporate DTS Virtual:X technology,” said Richard Velazquez, global head of brand for Denon. “It proves our constant mission to offer brand new technologies to existing products, adding value for our trusted customers.”

DTS Virtual:X was built for compatibility with all DTS codecs, including its flagship DTS:X. For content using its legacy codec, DTS Virtual:X will upmix to provide what DTS calls a “natural, immersive experience.” If your model number is on the list and you’re one of the apparent majority who isn’t using all the speakers your receiver is capable of… Sound United is giving you an early Christmas gift. Enjoy!