The beauty on the inside the outside of the 3802 isn’t anything special. Its design was uninspiring and boring. It’s a standard black piece of equipment. But when we opened the cover and inspected the model 3802, we saw an enormous power transformer in front of the faceplate. The insides of this receiver are packed with circuit boards as well as high-quality components that would not be appropriate in a premium component.
Denon’s stellar reputation among home-theater experts is built on its outstanding audio and build quality of its products. As such, we were optimistic about Denon’s popular mid-range receiver AVR-3802. Did it meet our expectations? Yes, the 3802 is definitely at the top of the line for receivers we’ve seen. We’re not so satisfied with the user interface. If there weren’t that flaw we’d have given this impressive receiver with an Editors’ Choice. Denon’s enviable reputation among home theater experts is based on the outstanding sound and high-end design of its products. As such, we had high hopes for Denon’s most popular mid-range receiver AVR-3802. Did it meet our expectations? Yes, it did. 3802 is certainly at the top of the line for receivers we’ve heard. We’re not so impressed with the user interface. If there weren’t that flaw we’d have given this outstanding winner the Editors’ Choice.
There are lots of connectivity options as well, ranging that’s from HDTV components-video switch to an obnoxious phono output for vinyl enthusiasts. It’s too bad Denon didn’t include an array of front-panel mounted audio/video connectors for gamers and video camera owners.
However, as mentioned, this isn’t the best user-friendly device. The setup chores and menu navigation can be confusing for even the most familiar home theater enthusiasts The remote’s ergonomics aren’t great at all. Additionally, the manual for the owner is of little aid in navigating the different options and surrounding options on the 3802. However, the day-to-day use is simple.
There are a lot of features!
Although many 6.1 or 7.1-channel receivers are equipped with five amplifier channels, this model comes with seven 110-watt channels. Dolby Digital 6.1 and DTS-ES Discrete/Matrix surround processors are controlled through Analog Devices’ highly regarded SHARC 32-bit processor chip and Denon’s own DDSC-D (Dynamic Digital Discrete Surround Decoder) circuitry. Dolby ProLogic II, as well as DTS Neo:6, are also onboard to synthesize surround effects from CDs, FM broadcasts; older stereo DVDs, and videotapes.
The Dual Surround speaker mode is incredibly versatile. It allows you to connect A and B sets of surround speakers, one pair that’s mounted on the walls of your room to play movies and a rear-mounted pair to play music surround formats, such as Super Audio CD or DVD-Audio (DVD-A). If you’re playing DTS ES or Dolby 6.1 content, you’ll be able to play the four speakers at once, along with the right-center-, left, and right-front speakers. This is the point where the seven-amp channels come into play. Also, the 3802 is also able to be set up to play a set of stereo speakers in a different room.
Prepared for anything
In the Best of Sessions at West 54th DVD 3802 was able to capture the subtlest nuances of Richard Thompson’s song “I Feel So Good.” The mixing engineers’ work was evident, whether we watched either a close-up or a broad view, the reverbs and the audio space were always in sync with the image. On Keb Mo’s track, the drums had that kind of immediateness, impact, and presence we are used to with distinct component systems. Mr. Mo’s deep voice was incredibly real and authentic as well as his surround sound effects were awe-inspiring but also easily blended with the soundstage in front. Then, we listened to a couple of DVD-A discs with the Marantz DVD12S1 player which produced results that were stunning. The audio on Al Green’s Greatest Hits DVD was even more vividly rendered. On “Call Me,” the trumpets almost dripped soul.
The Men in Black DVD gave the 3802 plenty of opportunities to showcase. The bass was clear and powerful. Denon’s 110 Watts per channel felt significantly larger in comparison to other units with identical power ratings. During the tunnel sequence where Tommy Lee Jones’s and Will Smith’s cruiser-cum-rocket-car blasts off, the Denon’s prodigious output slammed us back into our BarcaLoungers with a vengeance.
Note from the Editor: Denon Electronics won’t honor the warranty of products purchased from unlicensed dealers or retailers on the internet, or when the serial number from the factory was removed, altered, or changed by any means.
