🤔 ARE cheap DENON RECEIVERS good❓Denon X1700H Receiver Review

Summary

The review of the Denon x1700h 7.2 channel home theater receiver highlights its solid performance for under $700, featuring 80 watts per channel and compatibility with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. While setup is straightforward, the old user interface may deter some users. Performance is praised, especially in bass response and surround sound configurations, though it struggles with more demanding speakers. Comparisons are drawn with other receivers, like the Pioneer lx105 and Yamaha v6a, emphasizing the x1700h's value for budget-conscious buyers. An important update reveals upcoming Dirac Live support for Denon and Marantz, though not applicable to the x1700h.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Denon X1700H is a 7.2 channel Dolby Atmos and DTS:X compatible home theater receiver, producing 80 watts per channel.
• 🎮 It supports 8K video signals and features HDMI 2.1 with eARC, making it suitable for next-gen gaming.
• 🖥️ Setup is straightforward, taking about 30 minutes, but the user interface is outdated compared to newer models.
• 🎵 The receiver performs well with budget-friendly speakers but struggles with high-end speakers, leading to distortion.
• 🔊 The X1700H offers solid mid-range intelligibility for dialogue, although it can be slightly soft around the edges.
• 📈 Bass performance is improved compared to previous models, providing a punchy sound without being overbearing.
• 📺 When listening to high-volume levels, the X1700H can sound thin and brittle, especially with less-than-perfect recordings.
• 🔍 For surround sound, the receiver performs well, particularly in a 5.1.2 configuration, offering impressive dynamic upscaling.
• 💰 Direct Live Room Correction will be available as an optional upgrade in March 2023, but it comes with a significant cost.
• 🔄 Alternatives like the Pioneer LX105 and Onkyo 6100 are recommended for those seeking better sound quality or additional features.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the review?

The review focuses on the Denon X1700H, an affordable home theater receiver, evaluating its features, sound performance, and overall value.

What are the key specifications of the Denon X1700H?

The Denon X1700H is a 7.2 channel Dolby Atmos and DTS:X compatible receiver, producing 80 watts per channel into 8 ohms in stereo, with 6 HDMI inputs supporting up to 8K 60 signals.

How does the Denon X1700H handle different speaker types?

While it can technically power difficult-to-drive speakers, it is better matched with speakers that have an impedance of 6 ohms or higher. The review suggests avoiding pairing it with very high-end speakers to prevent distortion.

What are some notable features of the Denon X1700H?

Notable features include support for ARC and eARC, Dolby Vision, HDR 10+, Dynamic HDR, HLG signals, and compatibility with gaming features like ALLM and VRR.

What are the strengths of the Denon X1700H's sound performance?

The X1700H delivers a punchy sound with solid bass performance, particularly when using a subwoofer. It offers decent mid-range intelligibility and overall sound quality for the price.

What weaknesses did the reviewers find in the Denon X1700H?

The reviewers noted that at high volumes, the sound could become brittle or distorted, and the mid-range might lack some detail compared to more expensive receivers.

How does the user interface of the Denon X1700H compare to newer models?

The Denon X1700H retains the older user interface found in previous models, which reviewers found less visually appealing compared to the updated UI in Denon's higher-end receivers.

What alternatives to the Denon X1700H were mentioned?

Alternatives mentioned include the Pioneer LX105 and 305, as well as the Yamaha V6A and Onkyo 5100 and 6100, each offering varying features and performance at different price points.

What significant update regarding Dirac support was announced?

It was announced that Dirac Live Room Correction will be available for Denon and Marantz receivers in March 2023, with an optional upgrade cost for limited and full bandwidth versions.

What overall impression did the reviewers have of the Denon X1700H?

The reviewers found the Denon X1700H to be a solid budget receiver that offers good performance for its price, making it a recommendable choice for those starting their home theater journey.