Denon AVR-X1600H AV receiver review
Many clearly, it flaunts HEOS multiroom technology. This platform was initially launched by Denon in 2014 with standalone speakers that are wireless however it now also includes soundbars, AVRs and hi-fi separates, including from stablemate brand name Marantz. And also you don’t need to be a multiroom maestro to create utilization of it – the intuitive and usually stable-running HEOS application integrates usage of registration music solutions (Spotify, Tidal, Deezer, Qobuz, Amazon Music), plus internet radio, and works being a controller for the receiver’s Bluetooth, USB and networked sound playback, so that as a handy source/volume changer.
Simply speaking, HEOS adds an entire standard of extra functionality, even though the addition of AirPlay 2 provides an alternative solution multiroom/streaming hookup for Apple devotees.
Denon AVR-X1600H features and design The AVR-X1600H’s other features additionally impress taking into consideration the cost. bodily connectivity includes six HDMI inputs (one front-mounted), supported by composite AV and electronic optical ports that are audio. There’s only one HDMI away, but it is difficult to imagine potential buyers demanding two – nor could be the loss in a component video connection (entirely on Denon’s step-up X2600H) a deal-breaker. More helpful (certainly as the next upgrade course) may be the supply of twin subwoofer outputs, while the receiver’s MM phono turntable input.
The look is typically Denon, meaning the AVR-X1600H appears as being similar to the AVC-X8500H, just smaller in stature and without having a drawbridge to disguise its setup mic and headphone that is full-size, front-facing HDMI and USB ports, and control buttons. Therefore while that does make it a small messy, the LCD display is pleasingly big, as well as the brushed finish offers it an atmosphere of glamour.
Internally, the receiver employs a seven-channel amplifier that is discrete claiming 80W per channel into 8 ohms (20Hz-20kHz measurement, 0.8% THD, two networks driven). When compared to AVR-X2600H, meaning a fall of around 15W per channel.
Needless to say, it is most likely not well well worth getting hung up about power claims when contemplating affordable receivers apt to be partnered with affordable speakers in a small/mid-size setup. This Denon clearly has the juice available for its likely end user.
The AVR-X1600H might be most readily useful thought of as either a cutting-edge alternative to a past budget AVR, or a step-up from the soundbar/TV audio system. Regards the previous, the supply of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X playback, and HDR that is 4K passthrough HDMI (including Dolby Vision) – as well as the aforementioned HEOS skills – make it simple to recommend if such features come in need. When it comes to second, anybody originating from a soundbar that is stereo fully fledged multichannel audio will probably like it.
The seven-channel design enables 5.1, 7.1 or 5.1.2 Atmos setups, with Audyssey MultEQ XT to present a level of space EQ and Denon’s setup associate to help you through the installation procedure. The latter pays to, since it runs logically and enables you to skip parts if you would like (and you will come back to it in the future if you want). The presentation, which majors on low-res text, is not really flash though – the GUI from the Marantz NR1710, for example, is slicker.
Denon’s well-spaced binding posts don’t make bare cable connections too fiddly.
Audyssey MultEQ XT won’t excite committed calibrators, nonetheless it’s always suggested to operate the setup, particularly if the placement of your speakers does not conform to ITU tips (that will be the actual situation in a lot of family room surroundings). The effect on my 5.1.2 sub/sat array, post-Audyssey, had been a tighter soundfield that is overall. During playback, centre and subwoofer level changes are given – the former beneficial to improve dialogue – plus treble/bass tone control.
The number of available sound modes here (and their names) might still baffle while a lot of effort has been made to streamline the user experience. For example, according to the supply, you may have as much as nine DTS that are different to select from. The car choice (triggered by the Pure key in the remote) is consequently outstanding fallback, since it fits supply to networks. Denon has some enjoyable along with its presets too: strike the musical key on the handset ( or perhaps the Sound Mode symbol on the HEOS application) and you may scroll right through to find Rock Arena and Jazz Club modes. The previous does indeed make it sound like you’re queuing during the club in the straight back associated with the location and passing up on your favourite track.
