Denon is offering six new additions to the brand’s AV receiver line. Each model supports Amazon Alexa voice control, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and DTS Virtual:X codecs, the latest video formats, and whole-home wireless music compatibility via the HEOS platform. Designed with the custom integrator in mind, the new X-Series receivers also boast ihiji Invision remote system management technology and Domotz Pro remote monitoring and management technology.
New X-Series receivers include the AVR-X2500H and AVR-X1500H. The new S-Series include the AVR-S940H, AVR-S740H, AVR-S640H, and AVR-S540BT.
“Denon has a heritage of audio industry ‘firsts,’ including major milestones like implementing all three immersive audio formats into one receiver, and full 4K Ultra HD video on all inputs. As always, we remain fully invested in integrating the latest and greatest technology into our products for everyday consumers, enthusiasts and installers,” said Richard Velazquez, global head of brand management at Denon. “The X-Series and S-Series refresh demonstrates our commitment to remain lockstep with the evolution of the smart home theater. Amazon’s Alexa Smart Home Skill for whole-home audio voice control enables effortless use, an industry-leading setup process reduces out-of-box headaches and all the latest tech reduces near-term obsolescence.”
The AVR-X2500H and X1500H 7.2 channel receivers boast the latest technologies for audio and video excellence and custom integration. A centerpiece of the smart home theater, the AVR-X2500H and AVR-X1500H are Alexa-enabled and have HEOS built-in for wireless music listening throughout the home. Using Amazon’s Alexa Smart Home Skill for Entertainment Devices, consumers can leverage voice commands to control a variety of functions, including power on/off, volume, mute/unmute, music play/pause, external input switching and playback of supported streaming services. For vinyl enthusiasts, the AVR-X2500H and AVR-X1500H are also built with phono inputs to support playback of your favorite vinyl records.
As immersive content becomes more readily available, both the AVR-X2500H and AVR-X1500H are outfitted with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X capability for consumers to fully enjoy 3D immersive audio experiences via height or ceiling speakers, or Dolby Atmos-enabled speakers. Users without dedicated overhead channels or Dolby Atmos-enabled speakers are covered with DTS Virtual:X, which creates virtual height effects in 5.1, 7.1 or even 2.1 speaker arrangements for DTS encoded or PCM content.
The receivers also provide 4K Ultra HD 60Hz video, 4:4:4 Pure Color sub-sampling, Dolby Vision, High Dynamic Range (HDR), HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) and BT.2020 pass-through support for exceptional visual color, clarity and contrast. Users can connect their favorite media devices and output to one display via six HDMI channels on the X1500H and eight on the X2500H, both of which include support for HDCP 2.2 on all HDMI ports.
Ideal for custom integrators, the AVR-X2500H and AVR-X1500H both feature “ihiji Invision” and Domotz Pro remote system management technology. Both newly-integrated tools give custom integrators the ability to remotely monitor AVRs and provide near-immediate assistance to their clients from any location. External and IP control capabilities provide easy customization and compatibility with third-party solutions. Technologies like SDPP (Simple Device Detection Protocol) certification for seamless integration with Control4 home automation equipment helps ensure painless setup.
Building on the success of Denon’s S-Series portfolio, the company is introducing four new S-Series models that support multiroom functionality, voice control with Amazon Alexa, immersive audio formats and the latest video technologies. Streaming music throughout the home from music services like Spotify, Pandora, Tidal has been simplified with built-in HEOS technology and Amazon Alexa voice compatibility. Consumers can use their voice for a broad variety of functions, including adjusting volume, muting/unmuting, play/pause, input switching, and playing their favorite music.
With support for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and DTS Virtual:X and discrete, high-current power amplifiers on all channels, consumers have the latest formats and technology on tap. Ensuring movies and TV come to life with the best picture quality available, the receivers’ array of HDMI inputs support 4K Ultra HD/60 Hz with full-rate pass-through. Dolby Vision compatibility, HDR10 and HLG provide exceptional brightness, contrast and color, and HDCP 2.2 processing enables users to enjoy copy-protected content.
Additionally, with discrete high-current power amplifiers on all channels, the S-Series AVRs deliver maximum performance and plenty of power per channel to drive advanced home theater arrays. With low impedance driver capability, all four AVRs offer operational stability with a wide range of speakers for balanced, quality sound.
For simplified, accurate set-up and calibration, the S-Series also feature Audyssey MultEQ technology and included mic and stand (excluding the AVR-S540BT). With the addition of Audyssey Dynamic Volume and Dynamic EQ, installers and users have maximum control to manage audio set up for the absolute best fidelity. Audyssey Dynamic Volume and Dynamic EQ manage unwarranted audio inflections, allowing users to listen at lower levels and still enjoy clear dialogue, music and sound effects.
The AVR-X2500H ($799), AVR-X1500H ($599) will be available in May 2018, whereas the AVR-S940H ($579), AVR-S740H ($479), AVR-S640H ($379) and AVR-S540BT ($279) are now available at authorized Denon retailers.
