Video Processing - Denon AVP-A1HD Product Review

Denon boasts the AVP-A1HDCI is the
world's first fully balanced processor from
input to output (see chart below). This can
be seen by the large array of balanced outputs
(9 for the mains and center/surrounds, and
3 for independent subwoofer outputs). You
can configure for two different pairs of
surround speakers for optimized positioning
for music vs movies or run two pairs of side
or back channels for larger theater installs to
increase coverage. Denon doesn't just stop
with balanced outputs, they also sport two
balanced inputs via the CD input and follow
the balanced topology from input to output
of the entire product. The advantages
of fully balanced circuit designs include
significant reduction in distortion and noise
/ RFI/EMI pickup. The only disadvantage
is cost and complexity in circuit design
as you need double the components and
occupy more internal real estate. Denon
utilizes a direct mechanical grounding
scheme with independent transformers and
power supplies for each block as can be
seen in the above right pic. The preamp
drivers are all high current pure class A for
the best fidelity and signal drive possible.
Like with past flagship Denon products
such as the AVR-5805CI, the AVP-A1HDCI
uses the very best Burr Brown PCM-1796
dual differential DAC's (four per channel),
coupled with Denon's own proprietary
DDSC-HD digital audio technology and
Advanced AL24 processing for the highest
linearity and lowest noise floor possible.

Video Processing

On the video side, Denon uses Silicon
Optix Realta HQV processing and scaling
with built in multi-cadence detection for
accurate i/p conversion when standard
interlaced video is viewed on progressive
scan displays. The Realta sxT2 HQV 10-bit
processor converts standard interlaced
signals into progressive scan signals in order
to eliminate the stair-casing effect that
conventional up-converters can introduce
to diagonal edges. In addition, this unit's
Full 10-bit video processor can pass a
1080p/24fps signal through its HDMI input/
output and supports Deep Color up to
36-bit and xvYCC broader color spacing via
HDMI while also supporting full conversion
of all analog signal types including composite
video, S-Video, and component video to
HDMI up to 1080p. If you were to put all of
the video features and processing the AVP-
A1HDCI has on board into a stand alone
box, it would easily sell for $2500 or more.
Consider it a bargain that Denon lumps this
technology with independent configurability
per input into this processor.
Audyssey MultEQ XT
& Dynamic EQ (DEQ)
The AVP-A1HDCI sports Audyssey
MultEQ XT with eight-point auto setup and
a new feature called Dynamic EQ. Unlike
conventional loudness controls, Dynamic
EQ is NOT based on the Fletcher & Munson
curves. Instead it works in tandem with
Audyssey equalization using proprietary
methods for real-time calculations of
differences between reference level and
playback level curves to ensure proper tonal
balance correction regardless of listening
level. There are plans to upgrade AVP-
A1HDCI with Audyssey Dynamic Volume
and Pro Installer which would enable the
installer to use Audyssey's own calibration
kit, boost measurement points from 8 to
32, and allow curve editing per channel. I
will be reporting on my experiences with
these upgrades later in the year when they
become available assuming I still have the
pre/pro at my disposal.
Network Streaming, Wifi,
XM Radio, iPod & more
The Denon AVP-A1HDCI is packed with
networking features typically found on
media PC's and unheard of in A/V receivers
and processors only a couple of years ago.
Not only does the AVP-A1HDCI sport
an Ethernet port for a direct internet
connection to handle firmware updates and
audio streaming, but it can also connect
wireless via a WiFi (802.11b/g) connection
for even further flexibility. The AVP-A1HDCI
defaults to the Ethernet connection once
you plug the cable in and I found it a breeze
to connect to my network whether wired
or wirelessly.
As with most of the latest generation
of upper echelon A/V receivers, the AVP-
A1HDCI integrates XM Radio and iPod
connectivity, but it also boasts the ability to
do internet radio, Rhapsody and HD radio.
Internet Radio
Net Radio is a free (for the time being)
internet radio program that allows you to
stream stations off the internet to your
receiver/processor.
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