This week, Sound United is announcing the launch of two new Denon X-Series 7.2-channel AV receivers: the AVR-X2600H (95W per channel; $799) and AVR-X1600H (80W per channel; $599). Both new models support the latest surround sound formats, including Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology, which adds virtualized height and surround effects on traditional stereo or surround content as well as Dolby Atmos content while using fewer speakers.
Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization is used to create the sensation of sound that extends above and beyond the listener, using only loudspeakers originating at listener-level. This technology is ideal for systems without discrete height or surround speakers throughout the room such as 2.1 or 5.1, simplifying installation while delivering the excitement of 360-degree audio. Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology will be delivered via a future firmware update.
“Denon is committed to bringing the latest technologies to home theater enthusiasts while offering flexibility so they can grow with their home entertainment systems,” said Michael Greco, senior director of global brand management at Sound United. “To that effect, we’ve added the latest Dolby and DTS 3D audio technologies and eARC, so customers can up-mix traditional stereo and surround soundtracks to a 3D listening experience or virtualize Dolby Atmos or DTS:X mixes for amazing immersive audio without dedicated height channels. Listeners can also expect a full suite of technical capabilities, including the latest 4K video technologies, ALLM [auto low latency mode], voice control, Apple AirPlay 2, and HEOS wireless multi-room music streaming.”
New HDMI Features for Denon X-Series AVRs
Denon X-Series AVRs feature a new eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel), which delivers uncompressed and object-based audio from the TV to the receiver via a single HDMI cable and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) for lag-free gaming. With eARC pass-through, 4K Ultra HD HDMI and full HDCP 2.3 support on all ports, X- Series AVRs provide seamless connections with the latest 4K and future 8K TVs as well as streaming devices, gaming consoles and other source players. Audio content from the TV can be distributed to the second zone as well as the main zone via HDMI using a new party mode feature. Video content quality through a TV or projector is uncompromised thanks to the latest 4K video technologies such as Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG. Denon X-Series AVRs are also HDCP 2.3 compliant, ensuring compatibility with the latest copy protected content.
Apple AirPlay 2 And Hi-Res Playback
Denon X-Series AVRs are Apple AirPlay 2 compatible, allowing for streaming of Apple Music. Each receiver features a front-panel USB port that offers audio playback of MP3 and high-resolution audio formats (WAV, FLAC, ALAC, and DSD 2.8/5.6 MHz files). Wireless connectivity to popular streaming music services like Spotify, Pandora, Tidal, and more is easy via Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, and Wi-Fi with HEOS built-in.
Voice Control Compatibility
Denon X-Series AVRs also work with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Josh.ai, and Apple Siri for effortless voice control. Listeners can use Amazon Alexa for a variety of commands, including switching inputs for different media players, while the Google Assistant and Apple’s Siri can be used to adjust the volume, skip to the next track, and more1. Josh.ai offers custom integrators greater control over voice integration into a variety of existing smart home platforms, including Creston, Control4, and a variety of other compatible platforms.
HEOS Built-In Multiroom Music Listening
With HEOS Built-in, the X-Series AVRs can stream music wirelessly across compatible HEOS components from a variety of free and premium streaming services, including Spotify, Pandora, Amazon Music, TuneIn, iHeart Radio, SoundCloud, SiriusXM, Tidal and more. Consumers can also enjoy their favorite music in any room of the home wirelessly. Play the same song in every room or select a different song for each connected room via a variety of streaming sources.
Denon Setup Assistant Does the Work
By visually guiding users through each step in the setup process, Denon’s Setup Assistant makes it easy to get X-Series AVRs out of the box and making beautiful music quickly. Because every home theater is unique, Denon uses premium room calibration technology from Audyssey that automatically takes precise measurements and optimizes the receiver’s performance, providing the finest 3D audio experience tailored to the acoustic properties of the space.
Designed for Custom Integrators
Custom AV integration professionals will appreciate the X-Series receivers’ smart features, including support for Audio Select functionality or AirPlay OFF so it will not appear on every iOS device throughout the home. To best tailor system functionality for each client, integrators can now assign the same HDMI input source over multiple inputs and choose different audio sources. Integrators can also provide their clients with improved service efficiency and reduced downtime by utilizing ihiji Invision, Domotz Pro or OvrC remote system monitoring and management technology to remotely monitor and troubleshoot X-Series AVRs.
