Product Description

Affordability and versatility are the hallmarks of the AVR-1609, which features a powerful 7 channel amplifier section to drive a 7.1 multi-channel speaker system, along with the latest extended surround decoders, including Dolby Digital Surround EX, Dolby Pro Logic IIx and DTS ES. Equipped with the latest HDMI v1.3a digital video signal pass-through technology, the AVR-1609 provides 2 HDMI inputs and 1 HDMI output, allowing a single HDMI cable run to your HDTV display. The advanced Audyssey MultEQ in-room acoustic measurement and optimization system automatically analyzes the listening room’s acoustics at up to six different measurement locations, and develops an appropriate acoustic correction algorithm that provides smooth, natural tonal balance throughout the listening space. To eliminate irritating volume jumps between TV shows and commercials, the AVR-1609 is one of the first to offer Audyssey’s Dynamic Volume automatic volume leveling system, and Audyssey Dynamic EQ ensures rich bass and smooth tonal balance, even at low volume levels. Expansion options abound, with media network connectivity (via optional ASD-3N/3W), along with iPod compatibility (via optional ASD-1R/3N/3W), and the AVR-1609 features Denon’s exclusive Compressed Audio Restorer that automatically improves the fidelity of your favorite portable audio tracks.

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Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #2150 in Consumer Electronics
• Brand: Denon
• Model: AVR1609
• Dimensions: 6.70" h x 17.10" w x 14.90" l, 24.90 pounds

Features

• Identical quality and power for all 7 channels, 75W x 7ch
• Audyssey Dynamic Volume and Dynamic EQ
• HDMI (ver1.3a supporting Deep Color (30/36-bit), "x.v.Color"
• 1080p video pass through
• Sirius Satellite Radio ready

From the Manufacturer
From the Manufacturer

The Denon AVR-1609 7.1-Channel Multi-Zone Home Theater Receiver - Affordability and Versatility for a Reasonable Price

Affordability and versatility are the hallmarks of the AVR-1609, which features a powerful 7 channel amplifier section to drive a 7.1 multi-channel speaker system, along with the latest extended surround decoders, including Dolby Digital Surround EX, Dolby Pro Logic IIx and DTS ES. Equipped with the latest HDMI v1.3a digital video signal pass-through technology,

Includes 2 HDMI inputs and 1 HDMI output (Click the image to view larger)

the AVR-1609 provides 2 HDMI inputs and 1 HDMI output, allowing a single HDMI cable run to your HDTV display. The advanced Audyssey MultEQ in-room acoustic measurement and optimization system automatically analyzes the listening room’s acoustics at up to six different measurement locations, and develops an appropriate acoustic correction algorithm that provides smooth, natural tonal balance throughout the listening space.

Top Technology for a Price You Can Afford

The Denon AVR-1609 is equipped with the latest high resolution surround sound format decoding capabilities, including Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, and DTS-HD Master Audio - the latest high resolution audio formats found on many Blu-ray high definition discs. The powerful seven

Audessy Equalized ensures a smooth sound

channel amplifier section can be configured for 7.1 channel surround sound, as well as being able to drive a 5.1 channel system in the main room along with powered stereo speaker outputs for second zone audio. The video section features extensive video source switching and up-conversion capability, and is equipped with three latest specification v1.3a HDMI inputs and one HDMI output, with up to 1080p resolution.

True Quality Audio Processing

The built-in Audyssey MultEQ acoustic correction technology and optimization system custom-tailors the sound for optimum tonal balance throughout the listening space. To eliminate irritating swings in volume between TV shows and commercials, the AVR-1609 is one of the first to offer Audyssey Dynamic Volume automatic volume-leveling system, as well as Audyssey Dynamic EQ to ensure rich bass and smooth tonal balance, even at low volume levels. With the Denon AVR-1609 you get loads of connectivity for system building, including HDTV-compatible component video switching. A front-panel audio/video input allows quick and easy connection of camcorders and game systems. Analogue video to HDMI scaling to 1080p, 1080p video pass through Multi-Zone 2 source/2 Zone capability.

Options to Expand

Expansion options abound, with media network connectivity (via optional ASD-3N/3W), along with iPod compatibility (via optional ASD-11R/3N/3W), and the AVR-1609 features Denon’s exclusive Compressed Audio Restorer that automatically improves the fidelity of your favorite portable audio tracks.

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Technical Specifications

• Power Output: 75 watts/channel
• Dolby Pro Logic IIx – with Cinema, Music, Game Modes: Included
• Dolby Digital Surround EX Decoding: Included
• dts ES Discrete 6.1 Decoding: Included
• dts ES Matrix 6.1 Decoding: Included
• dts Neo:6 Stereo-to-Surround Cinema and Music Modes: Included
• dts 96/24 5.1 for DVD-Video Processing: Included
• Pure Direct/Direct/Stereo Modes on Digital/Analog inputs: Included
• Wide Screen 7.1 Mode: Yes
• Assignable Digital Inputs: 4
• Digital Inputs: Coaxial: 2
• Digital Inputs: Optical: 2
• Digital Outputs: Optical: 0
• Analog Audio Inputs, Incl. Tuner: 8
• Analog Record Outputs: 2
• Composite Video Inputs: 4
• Composite Video Outputs: 2
• S-Video Inputs: 3
• S-Video Outputs: 2
• Weight: 24.9 lbs
• Width: 17.1 inches
• Height: 6.7 inches
• Depth: 14.9 inches

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Choose a Denon A/V Receiver that is Right for You Home Theater System

Denon offers several models of A/V receiver systems, from the entry-level AVR-1609 to the advanced AVR-2809CI model. Each A/V receiver has different qualities so you can choose the one that is right for your home and the sound you want. Here's a quick breakdown of the Denon A/V receiver systems.

The AVR-1609 features a powerful 7.1 channel amplifier section to drive a 7.1 multi-channel speaker system, along with the latest extended surround decoders, including Dolby Digital Surround EX, Dolby Pro Logic IIx and DTS ES. Equipped with the latest HDMI v1.3a digital video signal pass-through technology, the AVR-1609 provides 2 HDMI inputs and 1 HDMI output, allowing a single HDMI cable run to your HDTV display. The advanced Audyssey MultEQ in-room acoustic measurement and optimization system automatically analyzes the listening room’s acoustics at up to six different measurement locations, and develops an appropriate acoustic correction algorithm that provides smooth, natural tonal balance throughout the listening space.

The AVR-1709 features a powerful 7.1 channel amplifier section that can be easily configured for a 7.1 channel surround sound loudspeaker system, or to drive a 5.1 channel surround sound system in the main room, while at the same time able to drive a pair of stereo speakers in another room. Featuring tremendous video signal handling flexibility, the AVR-1709 features three latest specification v1.3a HDMI digital video inputs and one HDMI output that handles HD signals up to the highest 1080p resolution. As well, the AVR-1709 features on-board video up-conversion, along with three HD component video inputs for additional video signal handling flexibility. For optimum surround sound quality, the Audyssey MultEQ in-room acoustic measurement and optimization system measures the loudspeaker’s overall response (at up to six different measurement points) and tailors the audio signal for the smoothest, most natural-sounding tonal balance throughout the listening space.

The AVR-1909 is equipped with the latest high resolution surround sound format decoding capabilities, including Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, and DTS-HD Master Audio. The powerful seven channel amplifier section can be configured for 7.1 channel surround sound. The video section is equipped with three latest specification v1.3a HDMI inputs and one HDMI output, with up to 1080p resolution. In addition, the AVR-1909 features Faroudja DCDi video processing and up-conversion, breathing new life into standard definition sources. Setup is a snap, thanks to the icon-based on screen display. To eliminate irritating swings in volume between TV shows and commercials, the AVR-1909 is one of the first to offer Audyssey Dynamic Volume automatic volume-leveling system, as well as Audyssey Dynamic EQ to ensure rich bass and smooth tonal balance, even at low volume levels.

The AVR2309CI is a 7.1 A/V receiver with video upscaling to 1080p of analog sources using a Faroudja DCDi chipset, decodes high-definition audio sources (Dolby TrueHD, dts HD-MA), and features 4 x HDMI 1.3a inputs with Deep Color support. A notable upgrade to the previous-generation is the addition of Audyssey's Dynamic Volume processing along with the already present Dynamic EQ option. Dynamic Volume is a feature that levels the volume to a more-or-less constant level to avoid sudden changes in volume. This feature works together with the Dynamic EQ that dynamically adjusts the EQ settings to optimize the dynamic range.

The AVR2809CI has been fortified with the latest A/V upgrades positioning itself to become one of the most popular audio video receivers in the industry, continuing on in its predecessor's footsteps. The AVR-2809CI has HDMI v1.3a which brings with it the new surround formats for HD decoding allowing for ultimate surround performance for the best in home theater experience. Updated Audyssey audio processing has been added to provide improved auto calibration results for smooth sound reproduction. The well acclaimed Faroudja FLi2310 has been employed to allow for video scaling to 1080p resolution. Serial IR ports along with the RS-232C system control port provides ease of integration for complex home audio installations with 3rd party controllers.

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Customer Reviews

No Audio with HDMI
If you plan on using HDMI with this receiver, you should note that this receiver doesn't pass the HDMI audio through to the external speakers. I have a Sony 46" Bravia, a Tivo HD XL, and a Playstation 3 that I connected to the Denon with HDMI. I had to hook up an optical audio cable between the PS3 and the Denon, and RCA cables for the Tivo. When I found out that I can't get 7.1 with the Tivo set up (because of the RCA analog cables), I returned the unit and bought the SONY STR-DG820. It's about the same price and does the HMDI audio and video correctly. Also, it's an easier to use unit.

I hope that this helps one of you avoid the frustration and confusion that I went through.

Great sound, horrible interface
I have been using this receiver for a few weeks. I love the sound, which is far better than my previous Onkyo when used with my BA speakers for music (I don't use the 7.1). However, my big complaint is that the interface is a train wreck. If I had 3 or fewer inputs (including radio) the 'Quick' 1-3 buttons might be OK once configured -- though I'd prefer a UI that allowed me to label them for my wife's sake if not my own -- but as is it's a pain. I have other minor issues, like the double-sided remote (two sides that don't work with my Bravia!), the lack of an analog passthrough, and a horrible manual, but usability is the big one.

I am planning on exchaging this, probably for the Sony 820 or 920.

Excellent sound and features...
I chose this Denon receiver for 2 reasons: It had features I was looking for; and I always wanted a Denon. I am giving it 4 stars for the same reason many did: a difficult owner's manual; although after finally figuring everything (almost) out, and re-reading, it makes a lot more sense.
The AVR 1609 has 3 features I really wanted: One, simple A/B switching between speaker pairs. Not too many receivers have this feature; I have 2 speakers in one room, 2 in another. Second, I wanted some sort of lip-synch correction. After getting a plasma TV, I've had the problem of sound not synching with picture sometimes. Thirdly, it has a "sound-leveling" feature, so louds aren't so loud, and soft parts are louder.
But the main thing is always the sound. This receiver, even without the MultEQ engaged, it is at least as good as my previous Yamaha receiver. With the MultEQ engaged, the sound is noticeably better, with only 2 speakers; with 5 or 7, it is likely to be much better.
I had trouble getting my head around the features of this receiver, but here is my summary: 1. MultEQ: this is an equalizing/adjusting feature that customizes the sound for your room and listening position using the supplied microphone. The set-up is very easy, and takes only a few minutes. Once this is done, you can engage it or not. 2. Dynamic EQ:this is usable once you do the MultEQ setup; it supposedly adjusts the balance at any volume level. I haven't evaluated this. 3. Dynamic Volume: also only usable with MultEQ, it quiets loud sounds and boosts quiet sounds so you can hear everything without waking someone up in the next room. This does seem to work ok. Even if you don't do the whole MultEQ set-up, there is a separate Night button on the remote that does pretty much the same thing as the Dynamic Volume.
Other plusses: quick select buttons on the remote. You can pre-set the TV for example, for Dynamic Volume, then just hit the button. Also, 2 switched plugs in back; also hard to find on receivers.
I have the AVR hooked to 2 Paradigm speakers; I have a Panansonic Plasma with audio hooked with 2 RCA cables, not using HDMI on the AVR. My Sony DVD is hooked to TV with HDMI,and to AVR with 2 RCA cables.
In summary, the Good points:
1. A/B speaker switching
2. Customized, excellent sound with MultEQ
3. Lip-synch correction
4. Dynamic volume (loud sounds softened, soft sound boosted)
5. Quick select buttons
Bad Points:
1.The owner's manual
2.No phono (turntable) input: buy a cheap adapter on Ebay.
3.AM reception pretty bad
I can only imagine how good this sounds with surround sound.