2020 Denon AVR Owner's thread

[AVSjd]

This thread covers the 2020 Denon AVRs: S960H/X2700H/X3700H/X4700H/X6700H


Sound United (parent company of Denon and Marantz) has released information on the new 2020 Denon "X" models with the new "S960H" model information to follow at a later date.  The 2019 S650H, S750H, and X1600H will not be replaced and will continue through 2020 as well as continue being discussed in the 2019 Denon AVR Owner's thread.

What's new or to be added via firmware update for the 2020 models?

- Features added to the 2019 models continue (and now also added to the X4700H/X6700H as they were not replaced in 2019)
-----  HDCP 2.3 all HDMI inputs/outputs
-----  Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization (factory default is ON, so with a 7.1 or less setup, this feature is enabled; works with DD/DTS/PCM w/no Audyssey limitation)
-----  Main Zone HDMI/TV Audio distribution (multi channel) down mixed to 2CH for Zone 2/HEOS speakers  - press the [Zone 2 Source] button on the front panel and select "Source" instead of the actual source name (formerly only on 2019 X3600H)
-----  ALL ZONE STEREO setting added to Quick Select buttons
-----  Bluetooth transmission to single set of headphones/hearing aids (with "Headphone only" or "Headphone and Surround speaker" settings)
-----  HDMI Custom Input Assign (able to assign a single HDMI input jack to multiple source names to enable saving separate audio input assignments for each, ie. HDMI, digital, analog))
-----  HDMI Input Auto Rename (AVR will automatically change the input name if recognized, eg. if using PS4, the name would change to PS4)
-----  Airplay disable (ON/OFF) - so AVR is not seen as an Airplay device (eg. if kids in the house that might accidently select it as a source)
-----  Roon tested

- A single HDMI 2.1/8k/40Gbps input (8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through) -  [Note that the 40Gbps number is more likely to be the number the industry adopts at large vs the 48Gbps initial target.  The best TVs on the market, the 2020 LG CX 9 series OLEDs just released with 40Gbps ports.  The Xbox One X and PS5 are going to be 40Gbps maximum.]
- Both main zone HDMI monitor outputs are also 8k/HDCP 2.3 while the Zone 2 monitor output (X3700H/X4700H/X6700H) remains 4k/HDCP 2.3
- Upscale from up to 1080p/4K to 8k
- AUX 2 button on remote relabeled to 8k
- AUX 1 button on remote relabeled to AUX
- Pre-amp mode (formerly only featured on the flagship models) - physically disconnects all on board amps when only external amps are being used (X3700H and higher)
- Speaker Preset (1/2) - Store two sets of speaker settings (including separate Audyssey EQ for each ie. no longer need to use USB or MultEQ Editor app for this); also added to Quick Select buttons
- Gaming enhancements - Variable Refresh Rate (VRR); Quick Frame Transport (QFT); Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM; previously added on some older models via firmware update)
- Video/Movie enhancements - HDR10+ (Dynamic Metadata); Quick Media Switching (QFT)
- Height 3/Front Wide speaker support (X6700H only)
-  Auro 3D Center Height (CH) with Auro 3D 13.1 support (X6700H only)
-  Able to use DTS Neural:X on DD/Auro 3D/DTS audio including Dolby Digital (formerly removed from 2019 models)
- HDCP Setup - sets the HDCP version (Auto/1.4/2.3) for an HDMI input source
-  ECO Mode defaults to "Auto"  (vs. OFF on older models)
- Volume Limit - variable from 60-80 / -20dB to 0dB (vs. fixed 60/70/80 - -20dB/-10dB/0dB on older models)

- Added via future firmware update:
- Screen saver - moving DENON icon as well as moving MUTE icon (December 2020)
- DTS:X Pro - support for up to 7.2.6 (with ability to select either Top Middle or Top Surround+Center Height) or 9.2.4 (X6700H only; December 2020)

What features weren't carried forward from the 2018 (X4500H/X6500H) and 2019 models?
-  Front HDMI input removed (X2700H/X3700H only)
-  Denon Link HD jack removed (X4700H/X6700H only) - used with a Denon Link HD compatible Denon Blu Ray player

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- All "X" series models have a 3 year warranty if purchased new/open-box from an authorized dealer
- All "S" series models have a 2 year warranty if purchased new/open-box from an authorized dealer
- All refurbished models have a 1 year warranty if purchased from an authorized refurb dealer


Denon model web page info and Owner manual links (NOTE: May not yet be active):

** Until the on line manual links become available, the manuals can be downloaded at --->  https://usa.denon.com/en-us/downloads/manuals-and-downloads

- S960H - MSRP ($649), 7.2CH, 90W, HDMI In/Out (6/2, main/main outputs) - avail July
All HDMI inputs (except single HDMI 2.1/8k/HDCP 2.3) are 4k/HDCP 2.3 capable, 1080p/4k to 8k upscaling, 32 bit AK4458VN DAC (as well as on all higher level models up to the X6700H), Audyssey MultEQ (6 mic positions), networking, DSD via USB/network source, speaker posts, and an on board Denon HEOS module (allows streaming of HEOS app music services to the AVR as well as streaming PCM 2.0 source from the AVR to HEOS wireless speakers set up around the home). Firmware updates are installed via a network connection or USB. There are no main zone pre-outs nor Zone 2 pre-outs,  PHONO input,  Atmos/DTS:X 5.2.2. It features 5.1 + Zone 2 capability using the Surround Back speaker posts for Zone 2. DTS Virtual:X (simulates height audio when using a 5.1 configuration but Audyssey is disabled). Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer (Audyssey is not disabled). Able to display volume and INFO menu on all 4k video (including Dolby Vision) with Setup screen taking up whole display on black background. No analog --> HDMI conversion, 2 year warranty, able to use the Audyssey MultEQ Editor app. Works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Siri and Josh.ai.  Note there is no front HDMI input.

https://usa.denon.com/en-us/shop/receivers/avrS960h?varId=

http://manuals.denon.com/AVRS960H/NA/EN/index.php


- X2700H - MSRP ($849), 7.2CH, 95W, HDMI In/Out (6/2, main/main outputs) - avail August
Upgrading from the S960H adds Audyssey MultEQ XT (8 mic positions), Zone 2 pre-outs,  PHONO input,  Able to display volume and INFO menu on all 4k video (including Dolby Vision) with Setup screen taking up whole display on black background. No analog --> HDMI conversion (ie. X3700H is the lowest model with this feature). a removable power cord, RS-232, Crestron/Control 4 interface, ISF (Day/Night) calibration settings (to be set by an ISF calibrator), 3 year warranty, able to use the Audyssey MultEQ Editor app. Includes “ihiji Invision” and Domotz Pro remote system management technology.  Note there is no front HDMI input.

https://usa.denon.com/en-us/shop/receivers/avrx2700h?varId=

http://manuals.denon.com/AVRX2700H/NA/EN/index.php


- X3700H - MSRP ($1199), 9.2CH (expandable to 11CH [7.2.4] w/2CH amp), 105W, HDMI In/Out (7/3, main/main/Zone 2 outputs) - avail late June/early July
Upgrading from the X2700H adds: one additional HDMI input, Zone 2 custom settings (bass, treble, HPF, stereo/mono), 12v trigger (1), DSD over HDMI, Zone 2 HDMI Monitor output, HDMI/digital PCM 2.0 audio to Zone 2 speaker posts/pre-outs/HEOS speakers, analog --> HDMI conversion, and the lowest model with at least 7.2 main zone pre-outs. No noticeable difference in power, but much better audio quality using the much more advanced Audyssey MultEQ XT32 and Sub EQ HT (when using 2 subs; independent sub level/delay). The Audyssey Low Frequency Containment (LFC) feature which helps to reduce the impact of lower frequency waves passing through walls (great when watching at night with others asleep nearby or if living in an apartment with thin walls).  Also features IMAX enhanced DTS:X. Note there is no front HDMI input.

https://usa.denon.com/en-us/shop/receivers/avrx3700h?varId=

http://manuals.denon.com/AVRX3700H/NA/EN/index.php

- X4700H - MSRP ($1699), 9.2CH (expandable to 11CH [7.2.4] w/2CH amp), 125W, HDMI In/Out (8/3, main/main/Zone 2 outputs) avail mid-June
Upgrading from the X3700H adds: front HDMI input, Zone 3 (same inputs as Zone 2 except not HDMI), a 2nd 12v trigger, front panel display of speaker inputs (or outputs), metal front panel with 2 line display, Custom 2 CH main zone settings (using FL/FR or dedicated Front B; LARGE/SMALL; crossover settings, sub – on/off, distance, level), two internal cooling fans, Denon Link HD, Auro 3D/Auromatic, AL32 Processing, Bass Sync; Remote Control able to store preset codes from other mfr devices (see below) and the ability to add Auro 3D Voice of God/Top Surround via the Subwoofer pre-out 2 only. DTS Virtual:X (Audyssey MultEQ XT32 enabled, but not Dynamic EQ, Dynamic Volume, LFC). 

https://usa.denon.com/en-us/shop/receivers/avrx4700h?varId=

http://manuals.denon.com/AVRX4700H/NA/EN/index.php

Remote Control Preset Codes:  http://manuals.denon.com/AVRX4700H/preset/AVRX4700HPresetCodes.pdf


- X6700H - MSRP ($2499), 11.2CH (expandable to 13CH [7.2.6 or 9.2.4] w/2CH amp) , 140W, HDMI In/Out (8/3, main/main/Zone 2 outputs) avail mid-June
Upgrading from the X4700H adds: 2 additional on board amps (w/capability to expand to 7.2.6 with external 2CH amp;  the additional 2 height speakers can be either Top Middle or Top Surround+Center Height), Front Wide speaker support via Height 3 speaker posts, more robust amps, mfr'd in Japan, gold plated connectors, Dialog Enhancer, 5.1 CH full bi-amp -FL/FR/C/SL/SR, and Auro 3D Voice of God/Top Surround via either the Subwoofer pre-out 2 or the Surround Back L speaker post, DTS:X Pro to support 7.2.6 setup (firmware update December 2020) 

https://usa.denon.com/en-us/shop/receivers/avrx6700h?varId=

http://manuals.denon.com/AVRX6700H/NA/EN/index.php

Remote Control Preset Codes:  http://manuals.denon.com/AVRX6700H/preset/AVRX6700HPresetCodes.pdf

[AVSjd]

Reserved

[AVSjd]

Known Issues, By Design and other tips relating to the 2020 Denon models

1.  By design - If the input for ZONE2 and ZONE3 (X4700H/X6700H) is set to “Source”, all types of input signals can be listened to from ZONE2 and ZONE3 (X4700H/X6700H)

2.  By design - If the input for ZONE2 is set to a specific source (like CBL/SAT), only analog signal or 2-channel PCM signal input (from HDMI connectors or digital connectors (OPTICAL/COAXIAL - X3700H/X4700H/X6700H)) can be listened to from ZONE2. To playback HDMI signal other than 2-channel PCM in ZONE2, set “HDMI Audio” to “PCM”. 2-channel PCM signals are output from a device connected to the input source selected for ZONE2 and can be played back in ZONE2. In this case, the MAIN ZONE audio will also be converted to 2-channel PCM signals if the MAIN ZONE and ZONE2 are set to the same input source. However, depending on the playback device, the playback signal may not be converted to PCM even if this setting is configured.

3.  By design - Audyssey (and Audyssey related features) cannot be selected when a DTS:X format with a sampling frequency of over 48 kHz is input.

4.  By design - Audyssey must be enabled in order to select Audyssey related features (ie. Dynamic EQ, Dynamic Volume, LFC).

5.  By design - Picture Adjust (X3700H/X4700H/X6700H) cannot be set when 4K or 8K signals are input or when the sound mode is set to “IMAX DTS” or “IMAX DTS:X”.

6.  X6700H - It is not possible to have 6 height speakers active when Front Wide are active with Atmos (TF+TM+TR) nor with the current DTS:X/Neural:X 11 speaker limitation - this limitation will be removed with the release of the DTS:X Pro firmware update (Dec 2020)

7.  X6700H - With a 9.1.2 configuration, the Front Wide speakers are silent on a DTS:X soundtrack if Surround Backs are also engaged - this limitation will be removed with the release of the DTS:X Pro firmware update (Dec 2020) which will then allow for up to 9.1.4.

8.  To ensure a USB device connected on the front panel powers off when the AVR is in Standby mode, set  to "Off in standby."

9.  Although the AVR can only Bluetooth pair with one set of headphones/hearing aids at a time, up to 8 devices can be registered on the AVR and selected as desired from a list.

10.  By design - Menu settings for Bluetooth Transmitter are not available when the AVR is grouped within the HEOS App.

11.  AMP ASSIGN = Pre-Amp (X3700H/X4700H/X6700H):   This setting is only used when none of the internal amps are in use rather only external amps are being used (regardless of how many speakers are being externally amped); however, if you only want this Pre-amp mode feature on the Front L/R speakers, then select either AMP ASSIGN = 11.1 (X3700H/X4700H) or AMP ASSIGN = 13.1 (X6700H) regardless of whether you are using  either 11/13 speakers in your setup.  Note also that all the main zone pre-outs are always HOT, you don't have to set them to ON in order to add external amps (eg. if you have a 7.1 setup and you want to power the L/C/R speakers externally (X3700H and higher only), then you simply connect the RCA cables to the L/C/R pre-outs, raise the volume on the external amp (if adjustable) to at least 80% of maximum, and then run Audyssey again to account for the different gain structure of the external amp compared to the AVRs internal amps.

12.  Speaker Preset 1/2 -  This feature will allow saving two different speaker configurations regardless of whether you save an Audyssey EQ or not as it is not an Audyssey related feature.  One example of its use is to set Preset 1: Amp Assign = Pre-Amp (X3700H/X4700H/X6700H) using all external amps and Preset 2: Amp Assign = 11.1/13.1 with the internal amps powering another configuration either in the same room (possibly also using some of the external amps as well) or in another room.  Another example would be using an Audyssey EQ with one preset and the Graphic EQ with another preset.   Note also the Speaker Preset selection can also be saved in a Quick Select button as well.

A firmware update was released for the Audyssey MultEQ Editor app that will allow streaming an Audyssey EQ curve to either Speaker Preset 1 or Speaker Preset 2. If either or both Presets are already using an Audyssey EQ curve, the app will ask whether you want to "overwrite" the existing EQ curve for the Speaker Preset selected.

The following settings are saved to each of the Preset 1 (default) / Preset 2.
0 “Amp Assign” settings
0 “Speaker Config.” settings
0 “Distances” settings
0 “Levels” settings
0 “Crossovers” settngs
0 “Bass” settings
0 “2ch Playback” settings (X4700H/X6700H only)
0 “Front Speaker” settings
0 “Audyssey EQ” data
0 “Graphic EQ” data

13.  IMAX Enhanced DTS/DTS:X Surround Parameters do not display (X3700H/X4700H/X6700H):   You must be playing IMAX Enhanced DTS/DTS:X content in order to have access to the individual IMAX settings under "Surround Parameters."   (Auto/Manual) in the factory default "Auto" setting will automatically change all speaker crossovers to 70Hz (ie. Crossover, Subwoofer mode, and LPF for LFE cannot be applied), otherwise if not desired, either set to "Manual" and adjust to suit your preference or set  to "Off" and will play as regular DTS/DTS:X. Note also there is no Dynamic Range compression used with IMAX Enhanced DTS/DTS:X audio tracks.

14.  By design, when streaming Bluetooth audio, the headphones/hearing aids must have their own volume adjustment as there is no volume adjustment using the AVR.

15.  By design, the source video must pass through the AVR in order for the volume bar or menu to display (ie. when passing only ARC/eARC audio back to the AVR there is no volume bar or menu display; however, you can use the 2016 Denon Remote app for this information).

16.  Dolby Digital not displayed when using Apple TV 4K: The Apple TV 4K does not use Atmos over Dolby Digital Plus. Instead it sends Atmos audio to the receiver over PCM (but at a higher bandwidth than ARC can support so you must use an eARC connection (ie. HDMI w/ethernet)  from the TV --> AVR if connecting the ATV 4k directly to the TV and you want to pass the audio back to the AVR), using Dolby MAT v2 so although "ATMOS" will be displayed for an Atmos source, when non-Atmos audio is received, the receiver will display "MULTI CH IN."

17.  By design, performing operations during playback of a Dolby Vision signal may cause variance in the color display of the menu screen and operations content. This is a characteristic of the Dolby Vision signal and is not a malfunction.

18. By design, when the sound mode is in “DTS Virtual:X” or sound mode that have “+Virtual:X” in the sound mode name, "Audyssey", “Dynamic EQ” and “Dynamic Volume” settings cannot be configured (S960H/X2700H only).  Although the X3700H/X4700H/X6700H can use Audyssey XT32, it is not possible to enable Dynamic EQ, Dynamic Volume, or LFC.

19.  Manual EQ refers to the Graphic EQ which, when used, disables the Audyssey EQ .   Manual Setup refers to the Audyssey settings that are copied from Audyssey Setup (ie. Audyssey Setup settings remain unchanged until Audyssey is run again so they can be more easily RESTOREd should you prefer to do so after making changes in Manual Setup) and can be edited by you.  These changes then become the "active" Audyssey settings; however, do not impact the actual Audyssey EQ.

20.  By design, Picture Adjust (X3700H/X4700H/X6700H) cannot be set when a 4k signal is input nor when sound mode is set to IMAX DTS or IMAX DTS:X.

21. Samsung 2018 OLED TV Q9, Q8, Q7, Q6 Series - No Video Issue:   This issue does not allow any 4K/60 / HDR content to pass through the receiver which causes the display to indicate “HDMI No Signal” on the TV.  Samsung is currently further investigating the issue and should have more info on when a firmware update will be available.  Refer to following link for more information --> Samsung 2018 OLED TV Q9, Q8, Q7, Q6 Series - No Video Issue (Nov 2018).

22.  AVR is HOT! to the touch  - If insufficient ventilation is provided for the AVR (ie. not having at least 3-4" clearance on the top and sides as well as an open front and back), then the AVR may run HOT!. Note this heat is primarily a result of the video card and not from the internal amps, therefore the heat will likely still remain even when using external amps. There are a couple of options to resolve the heat issue: (1) Enable ECO mode which should lower the AVR's temp by about 10F and although doing so will reduce available power to some degree, should not cause any issue for most speakers (esp. 8-ohm, 87dB+ sensitivity). Note ECO mode = AUTO is automatically disabled when the volume level is raised above 50/-30dB. (2) Place an external fan on top of the AVR to draw the heat away from the AVR (eg. AC Infinity Aircom S8/T8 (rear exhaust) or S10/T10 (front exhaust)).

23. Apple TV / Firestick video cuts in and out - Set the "4k Signal Format" setting on the AVR to "Enhanced" for that HDMI input. Ensure the TV HDMI input is set to either "Enhanced" or "Ultra HD Color" (see item .

24. Apple TV will not pass Dolby Vision video- On the Apple TV, set it to "4K SDR" and turn on "Match Content and frame rate". This allows the Apple TV to enable Dolby vision automatically for appropriate material.

25. Dialog bleeds over to Surround speakers - When using the new Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer (ie. no height speakers configured and "... + Dolby Surround" mode selected), in some cases, the dialog can be heard bleeding into the surround speakers (esp when playing a 2CH audio source). Denon tech support reports the Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer feature isn't the root cause for this, rather instead there is something going on with the DSP software.  A ticket has been created for Denon engineering to investigate further to try and resolve the issue.

26. All Zones Power ON - When using a universal remote (eg. Harmony) to power on the two zone models, both zones may be powered on (ie. main and Zone2). A few work arounds include: (a) "teaching" the universal remote the discrete power on sequence for each zone from the Denon remote, (b) select an individual source button which will also power on the AVR as well, or (c) simply set the Zone 2 "Power On Volume" to either "Mute" or some low volume level (eg. 40 or -40dB).

Note this can also occur when using the Denon remote, so if you power OFF the AVR and the front panel says "Main Zone OFF" but the unit still remains powered ON, that means you have Zone 2 powered on as well and must turn it OFF to power off the AVR. Instead of using the Power button, simply select the source button you want to use as this will also power on the AVR main zone as well as the source.

27.  Power off the front USB port in Standby mode - To ensure a USB device connected on the front panel powers off when the AVR is in Standby mode, set  to "Off in standby."

28.  AVR switches to Apple TV when first powered on:   If setting HDMI-CEC on the TV and AVR both to OFF is not practical or it simply does not resolve the issue, consider adding the following adapter between the Apple TV and the AVR --->  Amazon.com: Lindy HDMI CEC Less Adapter, Female to Male (41232): Computers & Accessories

29.  By design, you cannot use Bluetooth headphone out when the source input is also Bluetooth.

30.  Network connection fails:   The firmware update on June 25, 2020 caused some HEOS units to no longer be able to make a successful network connection.  Refer to the bottom of post 5 and do a "Factory Restore" and then do a firmware update to a firmware version that no longer causes this issue.

31.  AVR powers on at very low volume regardless of "Power On Level" setting (other than LAST) -    Some owners have indicated this is an issue that presents on their AVR.  Denon has acknowledged the issue and a firmware update should be released in the future to resolve this issue.  The work around until then is to use the LAST setting instead of a specific power on volume setting.

[AVSjd]

How do I reset the microprocessor or do a network reset on my 2020 Denon AVR?

When the AVR is acting up or doing something strange, try the following steps before resorting to a microprocessor reset:

1.  "Restart" -  set the AVR to Standby and press/hold the power ON button until "Restart" is displayed on the front panel (resulting in no loss of settings).

If no joy, then ...

2.  Soft reset - set the AVR to Standby and unplug the power cord for about 10 minutes, then plug back in the power cord and turn ON (resulting in no loss of settings).

If neither of the above resolves the issue, then you'll need to either do a network reset (if network related) or a microprocessor reset. You'll also want to reset the microprocessor before doing anything else if you purchased the AVR as an "open box" or demo/used/refurb unit to ensure all settings are returned to their original factory defaults.    Prior to doing a reset, you can SAVE the config file to a USB thumb drive so it can be LOADed after doing the reset (SETUP - GENERAL - SAVE&LOAD).


3. Network Reset (“Amp Assign”, “Speaker Config.” and “Video” settings are not reset)

Note:  On all models, if you are able to access the menu, you can also do the Network Reset by going to SETUP - GENERAL - RESET - NETWORK SETTINGS

S960H - p. 249
X2700H - p. 252
X3700H - p. 281
X4700H - p. 308
X6700H - p. 318


1 - Turn ON the power using ON/STANDBY.
2 - Select the HEOS Music source
3 - Simultaneously press/hold the: S960H - "Zone 2 ON/OFF" and "Zone 2 Source"; X2700H/X3700H - "Tuner Preset CH +" and "Zone 2 ON/OFF"; X4700H/X6700H - "DIMMER" and ">" (ie. right arrow) buttons on the front panel.  Release your fingers when "Network Reset" is displayed on the front panel.  "Complete" will display when the reset has completed.

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4. Microprocessor Reset (aka "Reset to original factory settings" to include erasing the Audyssey settings although does not roll back the firmware)

Notes:

• On all models, if you are able to access the menu, you can also do the microprocessor reset by going to SETUP - GENERAL - RESET - ALL SETTINGS
• Prior to resetting the microprocessor, you can SAVE the config/settings (to include Audyssey settings) to a USB thumb drive using the SETUP - GENERAL - SAVE & LOAD setting and then LOAD the file back after the microprocessor reset.
• In some cases where a single microprocessor reset does not resolve an issue, do at least 5-10 in a row

S960H - p. 248
X2700H - p. 251
X3700H - p. 280
X4700H - p. 307
X6700H - p. 317

1 - Turn off the power using ON/STANDBY on the front panel.
2 - Press ON/STANDBY while simultaneously pressing: S960H/X2700H/X3700H -  "TUNER PRESET CH +" and "TUNER PRESET CH -"; X4700H/X6700H - "INFO" and "BACK"
3 - Remove your fingers when "Initialized" appears on the front panel display.

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5. Factory Firmware Restore  

1 - Turn off the power using ON/STANDBY.
2 - Simultaneously press/hold the: S960H - "BAND" and "MODE"; X2700H/X3700H - "TUNER PRESET CH-" and "DIMMER"; X4700H/X6700H - "SETUP" and "DIMMER" buttons on the front panel and then press/release the ON/STANDBY button on the front panel until you see “Restoring FW” on the unit’s display.  This procedure will take 15-20 minutes to restore to the original factory firmware.

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[AVSjd]

Expanding the AVR by adding 2Ch amp (X3700H/X4700H/X6700H only)

The only models that can be expanded beyond their on board amp capability are the X3700H/X4700H/X6700H.  When expanding the X3700H/X4700H from 9CH --> 11CH and the X6700H from 11CH --> 13CH, the most cost effective solution is to purchase a smaller amp (eg. 50W AudioSource Amp100VS2) or re-purpose an existing AVR that you are replacing to power the Height 2 (Height 3 on the X6700H) speakers.  Another option for much higher cost is to purchase a much more powerful amp (eg. 300W Emotiva XPA-2) and power the Front L/R speakers on any of the three models.    

50W, 12 lb solution
Amazon.com: AudioSource Analog Amplifier, Stereo Power A Amplifier AMP100VS for Home Sound Systems: Home Audio & Theater

300W, 35 lb solution
Amazon.com: Emotiva Audio XPA2 stereo audio amplifier: Electronics


Connection:
a. A set of RCA cables would be used to connect either the Front L/R or Height 2 L/R (Height 3 L/R on the X6700H) pre-outs (depending on amp selected) on the back of the AVR to the L/R inputs on the external amp.
b.  If using the AudioSource Amp100VS, connect to the MAIN/Line 2 inputs.
c.  If using an old AVR, you would connect from the primary AVR pre-outs to one of the stereo analog audio inputs (eg. CD) of the old AVR and then connect the speakers to the Front L/R speaker posts on the old AVR.


IMPORTANT:  Ensure all amps are powered off when making cable/speaker wire connections.

Volume:
If the external amp/AVR has a volume knob, set it to at least 80% of maximum.   Volume control of the speakers connected to this external amp will be made using the primary AVR as with the other speakers in the setup that are powered with the primary AVR's internal amps.

Setting:
If using an old AVR, set it to DIRECT sound mode.

Once the amp and speakers are connected, and the amp is powered on, run Audyssey again to add these new speakers into your setup using the following AMP ASSIGN setting:


If the external amp is used for the Height 2 (Height 3 on X6700H) speakers:

Assign Mode: 11.1 (13.1 on the X6700H)
Floor 
- Layout: 5ch & SB (or possibly 5Ch + FW on the X6700H)
Height 
– Height Sp: 4ch (or 6ch on X6700H)
- Layout: Front Height + Rear Height (or whatever 2 (or 3 on the X6700H) settings are available that you want to use)
- Pre-out: Height2  (Height3  on X6700H)

Note:  The above PREOUT = Height 2 setting simply identifies which speaker pre-outs are being used for the "expansion" .... you can externally power as many additional speakers as desired as all the pre-outs are hot (ie. there is no setting to turn them ON) such that you could externally power up to all 11/13 speakers if you prefer.  Note however, that if you do externally power all speakers (regardless of the number), use AMP ASSIGN = Pre-Amp instead of 11.1/13.1.


If the external amp is used for the Front L/R speakers:

Assign Mode: 11.1 (13.1 on the X6700H)
Floor 
- Layout: 5ch & SB (or possibly 5Ch + FW on the X6700H)
Height 
– Height Sp: 4ch (or 6Ch on the X6700H)
- Layout: Front Height + Rear Height  (or whatever 2 (or 3 on the X6700H) settings are available that you want to use)
- Pre-out: Front

Note:  The above PREOUT = Front setting simply identifies which speaker pre-outs are being used for the "expansion" .... you can externally power as many additional speakers as desired as all the pre-outs are hot (ie. there is no setting to turn them ON) such that you could externally power up to all 11/13 speakers if you prefer.  Note however, that if you do externally power all speakers (regardless of the number), use AMP ASSIGN = Pre-Amp instead of 11.1/13.1.

[AVSjd]

We are taking pre-orders for all of the new "X" models that have just been announced.  Get on the list now as we generally only get a few units of each model in the early months of their release.

A purchase of either the X4700H or the X6700H will also include a FREE Auro 3D Version 2 Demo disc.

The disc will also be included with the purchase of the one remaining X4500H and X6500H we still have in stock.

[AVSjd]

Post any questions you have about these models.

[AVSjd]

We just got status that our first order of the new X4700H units has shipped to us so we should get them later next week.  The first orders are small to allow all vendors to receive some, therefore first come first served from our pre-order list so call if interested.

[AVSjd]

Our order of the new Denon X6700H units has shipped and should be in the warehouse in the next few days so we'll be shipping out pre-orders for both the X4700H and the X6700H as well.  Our X3700H order is expected by the last week of June.

For those don't don't need any of the newer features on the 2020 models, we still have one X4500H and one X6500H available.

[claw]

- A single HDMI 2.1/8k/40Gbps input (8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through) -  [Note that the 40Gbps number is more likely to be the number the industry adopts at large vs the 48Gbps initial target.  The best TVs on the market, the 2020 LG CX 9 series OLEDs just released with 40Gbps ports.  The Xbox One X and PS5 are going to be 40Gbps maximum.]


From an HDfury post regarding their devices...

...we are not willing to do anything for 40Gbps/1200MHz, we want to work with the real deal 48Gbps/1500MHz which won't be available before mid of 2021 (at least on AVR and device in the middle like us)

I am still good with my X6400H, so I will likely wait until next year before considering an upgrade. 

I assume this years models can't be upgraded for 48Gbps if next year's models support it.

[AVSCraig]

Denon X4700H and X6700H receivers are starting to arrive !

[AVSjd]

- A single HDMI 2.1/8k/40Gbps input (8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through) -  [Note that the 40Gbps number is more likely to be the number the industry adopts at large vs the 48Gbps initial target.  The best TVs on the market, the 2020 LG CX 9 series OLEDs just released with 40Gbps ports.  The Xbox One X and PS5 are going to be 40Gbps maximum.]


From an HDfury post regarding their devices...

...we are not willing to do anything for 40Gbps/1200MHz, we want to work with the real deal 48Gbps/1500MHz which won't be available before mid of 2021 (at least on AVR and device in the middle like us)

I am still good with my X6400H, so I will likely wait until next year before considering an upgrade. 

I assume this years models can't be upgraded for 48Gbps if next year's models support it.

As 40Gbps is likely to be the norm for awhile, not likely to see anything different on next year's models.

[AVSjd]

Our pre-order list of X4700H units has been shipped out to those on the pre-order list.  Our first order of X6700H has covered some of the pre-orders, but the remainder will have to wait a few more days for the next shipment to come in.  If you want this model, call to get on the pre-order list as it's first come, first served.  Best estimate on the X3700H is still last week of June/1st week of July; however, the pre-order list is getting long so call now to avoid delay of receiving your new 2020 Denon AVR!

[AVSjd]

Also, as a reminder, we are shipping a FREE Auro 3D Version 2 Demo Disc with every X4700H and X6700H order (as well as with the single remaining X4500H and X6500H units still left in inventory).

[AVSjd]

Our next order of Denon X6700H units came in today (Friday); however, all units were released to pre-orders.   We still have a couple of X4700H units available for immediate shipment.