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Overview
The AVC-X3800H features full HDMI 2.1 connectivity, four independent subwoofer outputs, and a dual acoustic correction system. Designed for demanding home theater installations, it offers remarkable configuration flexibility while preserving the brand’s characteristic warm and dynamic sound signature.
Improvements over the previous model
Compared to its predecessor, the AVC-X3700H, this new model brings substantial improvements. The addition of two extra subwoofer outputs brings the total to four, enabling more refined low-frequency management in large rooms or acoustically complex spaces. HDMI connectivity has also received a major upgrade: whereas the X3700H only offered one HDMI 2.1 input, the X3800H provides six full-bandwidth inputs.
The move from 9.2-channel processing to 11.4-channel processing significantly expands configuration possibilities. This evolution allows for more ambitious Dolby Atmos installations, including 7.2.4 or 5.4.4 channel setups. The Griffin Lit XP processor, more powerful than the previous generation, ensures smooth handling of these complex formats.
Advanced audio features and decoding
The audio architecture of the AVC-X3800H is based on nine discrete, separate-component amplifier stages, capable of delivering substantial power with minimal distortion. This design guarantees optimal channel separation and preserved dynamics, even during the most demanding passages.
Decoding of modern audio formats is comprehensive: Dolby Atmos up to 7.2.4 channels, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced, and Auro-3D are all supported natively. Dolby Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual:X technologies create an immersive soundstage even with simpler speaker configurations.
The unit also includes enhancement functions for older content: Dolby Surround and DTS Neural:X upmixers intelligently extrapolate spatial information from stereo or 5.1 recordings. Compressed audio restoration optimizes the quality of MP3 and other lossy formats.
Extensive connectivity and compatibility
HDMI connectivity is one of the AVC-X3800H’s major strengths. Its six HDMI 2.1 inputs support all 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz resolutions, with full support for HDR formats: HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG. These high specifications ensure long-term compatibility with future video sources.
Traditional audio connectivity remains generous, with six analog inputs, one MM phono input for turntables, and four digital inputs (two optical, two coaxial). The 11.4-channel preamplifier outputs allow the addition of external amplifiers for modular power upgrades.
The selective preamp mode by speaker pair is a practical innovation: it enables the use of external amplifiers on specific channels only, without disabling all internal amplification. This flexibility makes it easier to upgrade the system progressively.
Gaming and streaming features
The AVC-X3800H includes all modern gaming features. ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) automatically reduces display latency, while VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) synchronizes the refresh rate with the console’s frame rate. QFT (Quick Frame Transport) minimizes transmission delays for optimal responsiveness.
HEOS Built-in technology provides access to popular streaming services: Spotify Connect, Tidal, Apple Music, and many others. Multi-room integration lets you stream music to other HEOS devices around the home. Compatibility with AirPlay 2, Alexa, and Google Assistant simplifies voice control.
High-resolution audio formats are supported up to 192 kHz/24-bit, including DSD 2.8 and 5.6 MHz files. This versatility satisfies both movie lovers and demanding audiophiles.
Room correction options
The AVC-X3800H offers two complementary approaches to acoustic optimization. The built-in Audyssey MultEQ XT32 system performs automatic correction after measuring the room with the supplied microphone. This technology compensates for frequency and timing issues to adapt the sound to the characteristics of the listening space.
For users seeking maximum precision, Dirac Live support is available via a paid upgrade. This professional solution offers finer, more customizable correction, with two levels: the “Limited Bandwidth” version (20 Hz – 500 Hz) and the “Full Bandwidth” version (20 Hz – 20 kHz). Installation requires a PC or Mac and a dedicated measurement microphone.
What is the main difference compared with the AVC-X3700H?
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The AVC-X3800H offers four subwoofer outputs instead of two, six full HDMI 2.1 inputs instead of one, and 11.4-channel processing instead of 9.2. It also includes Dirac Live support via a paid upgrade and a more powerful processor for handling complex audio formats.
What gaming features are supported?
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The AVC-X3800H includes all modern gaming features: ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) to reduce latency, VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) to synchronize the refresh rate, and QFT (Quick Frame Transport) to minimize delays. All HDMI 2.1 inputs support 4K/120Hz.
How do I set up streaming and multi-room?
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HEOS Built-in technology provides access to streaming services via the dedicated app. The unit supports AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and integrates with Alexa and Google Assistant ecosystems. The multi-room function lets you stream to other HEOS devices in the home.
User reviews
Gianmario
A very versatile device, it offers full support for the main three-dimensional audio technologies currently available, excellent build quality and fairly easy calibration with the microphone supplied with the Audyssey system, perfect packaging and very fast shipping reflect the store's professionalism.
Comment from October 08, 2026 — Experience from February 22, 2026
Automatically translated — Show original (Italian)
Dispositivo molto versatile, offre un supporto completo alle principali tecnologie audio tridimensionali attualmente disponibili, ottima la costruzione e piuttosto facile la calibrazione con il microfono in dotazione al sistema Audyssey, imballo perfetto e spedizione molto veloce sono indice di serietà del negozio.
Antti
Really good amplifier. Fits perfectly as the heart of my Genelec home theater. The price was very competitive even without the Audioquest Forest HDMI cable, and with it, absolutely incredible.
Comment from September 01, 2026 — Experience from February 12, 2026
Automatically translated — Show original (Finnish)
Todella hyvä vahvistin. Sopii täydellisesti Genelec kotiteatterini sydämeksi. Hinta oli todella kilpailukykyinen jo ilman Audioquest Forest HDMI-kaapelia ja sen kanssa aivan uskomaton.
Anton
Easy to setup. Gets pretty hot in tight spaces, but that’s about it. Overall it’s an easy 5/5.
Comment from July 08, 2026 — Experience from June 20, 2026
Eco-contribution of €2.58 included in the sale price.
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