Denon AVC-X3800H

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.

Technical Specifications

Amplification

• 9 amplifiers
• Output power:
  • 105 W per channel (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 0.08% 2 channels)
  • 135 W per channel (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 0.7% 2 channels)
  • 180 W per channel (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 10% 1 channel)
• Speaker impedance: 4 - 16 Ω

Decoding

• Dolby: TrueHD, Atmos (up to 7.2.4), Atmos height virtualization, Atmos Music, Surround
• DTS: HD Master, DTS:X, Neural:X, Virtual:X
• IMAX Enhanced
• Multichannel stereo
• Maximum number of processing channels: 11.4

Audio Enhancements

• Independent amplifiers
• Pure direct mode
• Audyssey: MultEQ XT32, dynamic equalizer, dynamic volume, low-frequency compensation
• Compressed audio restoration

HDMI

• HDCP 2.3
• HDMI 2.1 with 8K / 60 Hz, 4K / 120 Hz
• HDR: HDR, HLG, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dynamic HDR
• Gaming: Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Quick Frame Transport (QFT)
• Compatible with 3D, 8K, DSD
• Audio Return Channel (ARC), Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
• Automatic lip sync

Connectivity

• HDMI: 6 inputs, 3 outputs
• Analog audio: 6 inputs
• Phono MM: 1 input
• Multi-room: 1 analog output
• Digital: 2 optical, 2 coaxial
• Multichannel preamplifier outputs (11.4)
• 4 independent subwoofer outputs
• 11 amplification channels
• Front USB
• AM / FM tuner
• Assignable A / B speakers
• Assignable bi-amplification
• Assignable multi-room terminals

Network and Streaming

• HEOS multi-room technology
• Compatible with: Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomePod
• Audio formats:
  • Compressed: MP3, WMA, AAC
  • Lossless: FLAC, ALAC, WAV
  • High resolution: FLAC HD, WAV, ALAC (up to 192 kHz / 24-bit)
  • DSD (2.8 / 5.6 MHz)
• Services: AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Pandora, SiriusXM
• Connectivity: Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth

Physical Characteristics

• Remote control RC-1253
• Power consumption:
  • Standby: 0.1 W
  • Operation: 660 W
  • Network: < 2.0 W
• Dimensions (W × H × D):
  • Horizontal antenna: 434 × 167 × 379 mm
  • Vertical antenna: 434 × 236 × 389 mm
• Weight:
  • Device: 12.5 kg
  • Packaged: 15.1 kg