Introduction
This article is part of a series of master articles that collate the relevant articles on this site as well as external resources related to your AVR / receiver thematically and is continuously updated as new content becomes available. Therefore it is a one stop shop for your Denon AVR needs.
A few things to note:
- It’s good to keep this page open while navigating. All links should open in a new window.
- You can navigate this page using internal links (GO and Back to Checklist buttons). These links simply scroll the page without opening a new page.
- SHC means Simple Home Cinema
- You can report issues or suggest new resources in the comments section. Thank you!
High-Level Checklist
Step | Description | Link to Section |
---|---|---|
0 | General Resources | GO |
1 | Planning – AVR Selection – Sources –> Inputs – Outputs –> Displays – Speaker Configuration –> Amp Config – Physical placement –> cable runs – Miscellaneous (Network etc) | GO |
2 | Physical setup – running of cables – Audio / Video – placement & ventilation – AVR / External Processors – physical connections – External Processors – physical connections – Audio / Video – physical connections – Other (Network, triggers, etc) | GO |
3 | Initial AVR Setup – Video output checks – Network Configuration – Amp Configuration – Initial testing | GO |
4 | Source Setup – Input assignments – Source re-name | GO |
5 | Running of External Equalisation – MiniDSP / PEQ / MSO / Dirac Live – Subwoofer EQ | GO |
6 | Room & Speaker Setup – Room Treatment – Listening Place Selection – Speaker Alignment / Positioning | GO |
7 | Running Room Correction / Audyssey – Mic Setup – Pre-run checks – Selecting a mic pattern – Running Audyssey (On Receiver, App, MultEQ-X) | GO |
8 | Post-Setup Checks – Room Correction Results – Volume checks – 6m distance check | GO |
9 | Post-Setup Configuration – Dynamic EQ – Dynamic Volume – Surround Volumes | GO |
10 | Integration – Universal Remotes – Hardware triggers – Home Automation & Lighting | GO |
11 | Troubleshooting – Video issues – Audio Issues | GO |
12 | Regular Maintenance Tasks – Power Cycling – Regular Unplugging – Firmware updates | GO |
Closing Notes | GO |
Setup Guide
0. General Resources
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
Pro Guide | Secrets of Audyssey | Pro Guide that is referenced in this article a lot. I recommend you get this if you want to get the best performance out of your receiver or you want to support the maintenance of this blog. |
External | Denon Global Website | This guide will reference US resources. For country-specific resources you can navigate from here. |
External | AVS Forum | US Audio Visual Forum |
External | AVForums | UK Audio Visual Forum |
External | StereoNet | Australia / New Zealand Audio Visual Forum |
PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
1. Planning
Before starting out, it is a good idea to plan out the connections (inputs / outputs / speakers / cabling, etc) all in one place. See below for a free spreadsheet you can download for all your planning.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
File | <Planning Spreadsheet> | Coming Soon! |
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1.1 Planning – AVR Selection
The below resources will help you choose your AVR. Ultimately, go for the receiver that will best suit the number of speakers you plan to install right now and has the capability to be expanded with external amplifications and more speakers as you grow your setup for the next 3-7 years.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
Article | Choosing the Best Denon Receiver | 2021-22 Denon AVR lineup |
External | Denon Website – List of Receivers | Denon AVR USA lineup |
PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
1.2 Planning – Sources –> Inputs
You will need to plan our how many source devices you will use, what they will be and what connections you plan to use to connect them to the AVR. It is critical that the AVR you selected has all the necessary number of inputs per input type (e.g. 3 HDMIs if that is what you will use).
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
External | Denon Manual – Connecting Input Devices | 6700H Manual – suitable as general info |
PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
1.3 Planning – Outputs –> Displays
How many displays do you plan to connect across the different zones? E.g. you may want to connect two displays in your home theatre and then an additional display in the bedroom using the Zone 2 function.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
External | Denon Manual – Connecting Displays | 6700H Manual – suitable as general info |
PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
1.4 Planning – Speaker Configuration –> Amp Config
Denon AVRs have different amp configurations you can choose for assigning the internal amps to particular speakers across the different zones. In addition, you need to tell the AVR which speakers will be powered by external amplifiers, which ones will be bi-amped and so on if those are relevant for your setup. In addition, Atmos speaker positions will also need to be configured under speaker installation options. It is best to plan these out in advance.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
External | Denon Manual – Speaker installation | Plan out speaker placement using this part of the manual |
External | Denon Manual – Amp Config | 6700H Manual – suitable as general info |
PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
1.5 Planning – Physical placement –> cable runs
Planning cable runs is critical. How long and what type of cables will you need? Will you run them in the walls or outside walls in cable channels?
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
External | Denon Manual – Speaker installation | Plan out speaker placement using this part of the manual |
External | Denon Manual – Label Speaker Cables | Use the cable labels where the cables terminate on the AVR side. The cable labels are in your Denon AVR documentation package. Alternatively make your own using sticky paper from local store. |
External | Which Cable Size / Gauge to Buy | The table is excellent at working out the ideal wire gauge to buy for your speaker runs. |
PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
1.6 Planning – Miscellaneous
Power, network and trigger cables also need to be planned out.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
External | Denon Manual – Network Connections | Plan out how you will connect the receiver – Wired or Wireless Lan |
External | Denon Manual – Trigger outs and Control Jacks | Plan out trigger functions for projector screens, projectors, other control devices that have trigger interfaces |
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2. Physical Setup
2.1 Physical Setup – Running of cables – Audio / Video / Speakers
The actual cable runs are completed here according to your previous planning. Also refer to the planning section if you haven’t done so.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
External | Which Cable Size / Gauge to Buy | The table is excellent at working out the ideal wire gauge to buy for your speaker runs. |
External | AVGadgets – Running Speaker Wires | This is a great article that gives you some options for running cables. |
External | SVS – How to Hide Speaker Wires | Great suggestions for hiding speaker wiring. |
External | Crutchfield – How to Wire within Walls | This article is for those that want to get right into DIY and maybe follow along. Lots of great pictures for demonstrating the steps too. |
External | SoundOnSound – Cable shielding / Balanced and Unbalanced cables | This is a bit more advanced for those that may want to run longer speaker wire or are looking to run balanced cables for active speakers (such as studio monitors used for surround sound) |
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2.2 Physical Setup – Placement & ventilation – AVR / External Processors
Physical placement and ventilation of your AVR is critical for protecting your investment as poor ventilation can cause premature failure of the audio or video section of your Denon AVR.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
External | Denon Support – AVR Ventilation requirements | How much space you need around your Denon AVR right from the horse’s mouth. |
External | How much space do you need around your AV Receiver | This is a great article from Home Theatre Heroes on AVR placement and ventilation. |
External | ACInfinity AVR / Processor Fans | I personally use one of these even though my AVR(s) are in open racks. They work really well. Can recommend them. |
External | ACInfinity Cabinet Fans | I don’t have these personally but I know people who do and they love them. It’s a good idea to install something similar for close cabinets even if you were to go with a different brand. |
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2.3 Physical connections – External Processors
If you are using external audio or video processors, you will need to connect them in between your equipment dependent on the processor type and the configuration you have. It is important to read the manual of your external processor for setup options. Some of the most common ones – from MiniDSP and Lumagen – are listed below.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
Pro Guide | Secrets of Audyssey | Section 4 Preparation – External Processors. This section gives general information about connecting external audio processors to your Denon AVR. Appendix C. Integrating Dirac with Audyssey. This section gives general information about integrating audio processors with Dirac Live to your Denon AVR. |
External | MiniDSP | MiniDSP makes external audio processors with different features. Of interest are processors that can be used for additional subwoofer EQ such as the 2x4HD (user manual) and multi-channel processors with Dirac Live support such as the DDRC-88A (user manual). |
External | Lumagen Video Processors | Lumagen’s Radiance products are very popular amongst enthusiasts. |
External | Lumagen Radiance Installation Notes | Useful as a quick connection guide for radiance processors. |
PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
2.4 Physical connections – Audio / Video / Speakers
Connecting audio / video cables as well as speakers to your AVR happens next.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
Article | How to connect up your new Home Cinema Receiver? | Simple Home Cinema article explaining some basic connections. |
Article | How to wire up your speakers! | Simple Home Cinema article explaining some basics around speaker connections. |
External | Roger Russell – Speaker Connections | Interesting tidbit on speaker connections. |
External | Denon Manual – Connection Types | Visual of the different connection types into your Denon receiver. |
PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
2.5 Physical connections – Other (Network, triggers, etc)
Connect network and trigger cables next and power cable last!
The power cable should be plugged into the receiver first, then into a wall outlet. If you’re in a country where wall outlets can be switched on and off on the wall, then ensure the outlet is switched off below plugging or unplugging the power cable to ensure there can’t be any sparks that could destroy your amp.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
External | Denon Manual – Connecting AVR to Network | Denon manual on how to connect AVR to network. |
External | Denon Support – Connecting AVR to Network | Denon support on how to connect AVR to network. |
PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
3. Initial AVR Setup
3.1 Video output setup
The very first thing to configure is the video output making sure you can see the menu and front-end on your display.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
External | Denon Manual – Amp Power On | How to power on your AVR. |
External | Denon Manual – HDMI Output Settings | How to set up HDMI output on your AVR. |
External | Denon Manual – Video Conversion Setup | How to set up video conversion from sources. This is important as the On Screen Display (OSD) may not work otherwise when sources are playing. |
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3.2 Network Configuration
Second is network configuration so you can use the online functions. If this is not possible, you will need to apply the firmware update in the next step using a USB device (if your particular unit supports this).
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
External | Denon Manual – Network Setup | How to configure network on your AVR. |
PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
3.3 Firmware Update
It is best to research if there’s a new firmware update for your particular unit. It is advisable to have a look in the owners’ forums for any issue with the latest update before applying it however. This might save you some frustration.
The reason we apply the latest firmware update is to ensure there are no issues with how the receiver operates. Otherwise we might be troubleshooting issues that are within the firmware and the manufacturer has already fixed.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
External | AVSForum – Receivers (US) AVForums – Receivers (UK) StereoNet Receivers (AU) | Check user experiences in the owners’ threads. |
External | Denon Manual – Firmware Update | Procuring for doing a firmware update. |
External | Denon Support – Firmware Update Check | How to do a firmware check. |
PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
3.3 Amp Configuration
It is important to check the amp configuration especially if you are using external amplification for some of the speakers. This is because the AVR needs to know which terminals the speakers will be connected to if you are using a non-standard configuration. Additionally, switching the amp for pre-amp mode (if supported) should happen here.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
External | Denon Manual – Speaker Preset | Newer Denon units have 2 speaker preset memories. You may need to choose one if you are setting up a second speaker memory. |
External | Denon Manual – Amp Assign | This is the function you use to select the amp assignment within your AVR. Check this before running automatic calibration. |
PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
3.4 Initial testing
During initial testing you ensure that all speakers are connected correctly by playing the AVR’s internal test tone. You can also test internet services to ensure there is internet connection.
To test the video connection, check that your display is receiving the correct signal by checking the signal information on your display. At this point however, this isn’t as critical as when testing source devices.
Lastly, you can test that phone apps connect to the AVR over the network.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
External | Denon Manual – Speaker Levels | Run through all the speakers using the internal test tone and ensure the test tone comes out of the correct speaker as you tab through each! |
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4. Source Setup
4.1 Input assignments
Source devices will need to be plugged into specific hardware inputs (e.g. HDMI ports). These hardware inputs can then be assigned to the different sources within the receiver. The sources you don’t use can be hidden and existing names renamed so the source names are relevant. It doesn’t matter how you want to arrange your inputs. I prefer to start with Disc based players and then assign streaming and gaming devices further down the list.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
External | Denon Manual – Input Assign | How to assign the different video and audio inputs to sources. |
External | Denon Manual – Hide Sources | How to hide sources that you won’t be using for ease of use! |
External | Denon Manual – Source Rename | How to rename sources so they appear on the front-end and front displays correctly. |
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4.3 Configuring Blu Ray Players
Configuring Blu Ray players is important especially since Denon receivers are not THX certified. See below for more.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
External | Denon Manual – Source Level | If you have a Blu Ray player, you may want to reduce the source level by 4dB. The reason for this is explained in Secrets of Audyssey. |
External | Ask Audyssey – Speaker Delays in Blu Ray Player Settings | The article talks about why you don’t need to configure this in the Blu Ray player if you are connecting it through HDMI. |
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4.4 Configuring Streaming Devices
Streaming devices such as Apple TV, Chromecast, Amazon FireTV as well as Xbox or Playstation consoles can be configured here.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
Article | Apple TV 4K versus Xbox Series X / Xbox One X for Media Playback | Article on streaming quality between Xbox and Apple TV. |
External | What Hifi – Adding Streamers to Your Setup | Audio streaming configuration. |
External | Denon Support – Setting up Chromecast for Streaming Services | Chromecast configuration for streaming. |
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4.5 Configuring Game Consoles
Gaming consoles used for gaming (as opposed to streaming) can be configured next using the below resources.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
External | Denon Support – Issues with 4K/120 and 8K on some receivers | What if you have issues getting 4K/120 or 8K/60 on your 2021 Denon AVR. |
PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
4.6 Configuring Other Sources
The below resources are for USB playback, bluetooth devices, internet radio and other device configuration.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
External | Denon Manual – USB Playback Denon Manual – USB Playback Supported Filed Types | USB Device Playback |
External | Denon Manual – Bluetooth Devices | Bluetooth Device Playback |
External | Denon Manual – Internet Radio | Internet Radio playback |
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5. Running of External EQ
5.1 MiniDSP / PEQ / MSO / Dirac Live
External EQ should be configured before running Audyssey.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
Pro Guide | Secrets of Audyssey | Section 4 Running Audyssey – Preparation – External Processors. This section gives general information about connecting external audio processors to your Denon AVR. Appendix C. Integrating Dirac with Audyssey. This section gives general information about integrating audio processors with Dirac Live to your Denon AVR. |
Pro Guide | Getting Started with Manual Calibration and REW | This guide can help you work with REW to tune your EQ / DSP / etc. |
External | MiniDSP | MiniDSP makes external audio processors with different features. Of interest are processors that can be used for additional subwoofer EQ such as the 2x4HD (user manual) and multi-channel processors with Dirac Live support such as the DDRC-88A (user manual). |
PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
5.2 Subwoofer EQ
Subwoofer EQ should generally be configured before running Audyssey. The only exception is BEQ, which is also listed under Post-setup configuration (Amending Target Curves).
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
Pro Guide | Secrets of Audyssey | Chapter 4. Running Audyssey. Subwoofer EQ and MSO covered. |
Pro Guide | Getting Started with Manual Calibration and REW | This guide can help you work with REW to tune your subwoofer EQ. |
External | MiniDSP 2x4HD | These MiniDSP units are great for setting up multiple subwoofers (especially when used with Multi-Sub Optimiser (MSO) |
External | Multi Sub Optimiser(MSO) | State of the Art EQ modelling to be used with a MiniDSP (or other EQ solution) |
External | Ask Audyssey – Subwoofer Setup | How to set up your subwoofer from Audyssey directly. |
External | BEQ (Bass EQ) 1.Bass EQ (BEQ) – AVS Forum Thread 2.MiniDSP – BEQ Designer Page 3.BEQ Designer Product Page | BEQ needs to be configured AFTER running Audyssey, never before but for completeness BEQ is included under Subwoofer EQ as well. BEQ aims to restore low-level bass in moves that was filtered out during mastering for home delivery. Please note that you need very capable subwoofers and appropriate protection in place that you don’t damage your system! |
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6. Room & Speaker Setup
6.1 Room Treatment
Room treatment is a critical part of home cinema and getting the very best out of Audyssey and your Denon receiver.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
Pro Guide | Secrets of Audyssey | A whole chapter in Secrets of Audyssey deals with where to place room treatment and why. |
Pro Guide | The Room Treatment Guide | This guide goes into a lot more detail in 30+ pages. It also shows you how to build DIY room treatment cheaply. |
Article | Configuring Audyssey – The Right Way | This article touches on room treatment. |
Article | Why Audyssey Sounds Best with Room Treatment | Why Audyssey requires room treatment to sound its best! |
External | Amroc Room Modes Calculator | Amroc Room Mode Calculator – brilliant tool for estimating room modes and planning room treatment. |
External | Loudspeaker Calculator | Can be used to plan room treatment as well. |
PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
6.2 Listening Place Selection
How you position your listening seats can also have a large impact on the quality of sound you can achieve in your listening space. While understandably, not everyone has flexibility to locate seats in mixed-use rooms, for dedicated home theatres, it is critical to position your seats appropriately.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
Pro Guide | Secrets of Audyssey | A brief chapter on how to select your listening place in your room. |
Pro Guide | Configuring Audyssey – The Right Way | Brief notes on listening place selection. |
External | Loudspeaker Calculator | Can be used to plan listening position and speaker angles. |
External | PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
6.3 Speaker Positioning & Alignment
Speaker positioning and alignment is also a critical aspect to achieving optimal sound quality as well as correct steering of multi-channel soundtracks. Speaker positioning within the space is critical for steering, while alignment and correct aiming will ensure that every seat is a good seat. It will also allow Audyssey to do the best job and not over or under-compensate.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
Pro Guide | Secrets of Audyssey | Detailed notes and issues regarding speaker placement and alignment. |
Pro Guide | Configuring Audyssey – The Right Way | High-level notes regarding speaker placement and alignment. |
Article | How to choose the best positions for your Home Cinema Speakers | General positioning guide. |
Article | How High to Position Your Surround Speakers | This article tackles issues with Dolby’s general recommendations on height of surround speakers especially regarding ATMOS. |
External | Denon Manual – Speaker Placement | If you go into your specific speaker configuration, there are pictures to help you position your speakers. |
External | Dolby’s Speaker Setup Guides | This is Dolby’s older guide for 5.1, 7.1 and 9.1 setups. |
External | Dolby’s Atmos Setup Guide | This is more appropriate for Atmos enabled AVRs even if you don’t plan to use height / ceiling speakers. |
External | Trinnov’s DTS:X Guide | This is pretty much the most comprehensive. |
External | Loudspeaker Calculator | The calculator is at the bottom of the page. It is great as a way to model the in-room response for subwoofer placement for example, but it will also do main speakers as well. |
External | Amroc Room Modes Calculator | Amroc Room Mode Calculator – brilliant tool for estimating room modes and planning room treatment. |
External | Auralex Speaker Positioning Guide | I think this is pretty good in terms of giving practical guidance on how to calculate angles and how those translate into distances on the walls! |
PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
7. Running Room Correction / Audyssey
All of the below is covered under Configuring Audyssey – The Right Way (free guide) and Secrets of Audyssey (pro guide). It is worth running through those guides at this point. A quick summary is provided below.
Background information:
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
Article | Dirac Live vs Audyssey vs YPAO R.S.C. | Article comparing Audyssey to Dirac and YPAO. |
Article | Audyssey MultEQ-X Features and Thoughts | MultEQ-X Launch Article |
External | Ask Audyssey – Audyssey’s Support Page | Audyssey’s support page with lots of useful information |
External | AVS Forums – Audyssey FAQ | An excellent Audyssey resource on AVR Forum |
PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
7.1 Mic Setup
How you set up the microphone for measurement is very important. Putting the mic on your head, on the sofa head rest or worse – on the coffee table in front of the listening position is going to give you less than ideal results. Find out the best strategies using the below resources.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
Pro Guide | Secrets of Audyssey | Do’s and Don’s of Microphone setup. (detailed) |
Article | Configuring Audyssey – The Right Way | Do’s and Don’s of Microphone setup. (high level) |
External | Ask Audyssey – Mic Positioning Guide | This is quite old now but still relevant. |
External | Ask Audyssey – Can I use Any Mic? | Audyssey support – Audyssey Mic from other receivers |
External | Ask Audyssey – Mic Cable Too Short | What if the mic cable is too short, what can you do? |
External | AVS Audyssey Mic Positioning Guide | AVS Mic positioning write-up |
External | AVS Forums – Audyssey FAQ | There are specific Mic positioning information on AVS as well. |
PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
7.2 Selecting a mic pattern
The mic pattern can determine how focused or how wide the imaging will be for your sound space. In addition, correct placement can ensure sub and main speakers will be well integrated with a smooth and wide soundstage.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
Pro Guide | Secrets of Audyssey | – 5 Microphone Patterns (Tight, Medium, Wide A, Wide B, Restricted) – Also suggestion on how to improve performance using MultEQ-X. |
Article | Configuring Audyssey – The Right Way | A basic mic pattern is discussed. |
External | Ask Audyssey – Mic Positioning Guide | Audyssey’s mic positioning guidance from their support page. |
External | Ask Audyssey – Non-standard layout | What about non-standard layouts on Audyssey’s support page. |
External | PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
7.3 Running Audyssey (On Receiver, App, MultEQ-X)
Are you going to run Audyssey on the AVR, using the Mobile App or the MultEQ-X Windows app? You can find resources to help you along whichever you choose!
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
Pro Guide | Secrets of Audyssey | – Extensive discussion from prep to mic placement to running the algorithm. – Info discussing how MultEQ-X can help to improve performance. |
Article | Configuring Audyssey – The Right Way | High-level discussion on running Audyssey. |
Article | Audyssey Midrange Compensation – On or Off? – Denon and Marantz Receivers | Specific guidance on when to use midrange compensation. |
Article | Ideas for Using MultEQ-X to Improve Audyssey Performance | Article discussing how MultEQ-X can help to improve performance. |
External | Denon Manual – Running Audyssey | |
External | Original Audyssey Setup Guide from AVS Forums | This is quite old now but can provide some good background. |
External | Audyssey – MultEQ-X User Guide | Audyssey’s MultEQ-X User Guide for the PC app. This is an updated version of the old Pro user guide pretty much (see below). |
External | Audyssey – MultEQ Pro User Guide | This is the old Audyssey Pro User Guide. It can provide some interesting tidbits. |
App | Apple App Store – MultEQ App Google Play Store – MultEQ App | Audyssey MultEQ App for Phones and Tablets |
External | Denon’s MultEQ App Page | High-Level information about The Audyssey App from Denon. |
External | Audioholics – MultEQ App User Thread | Audioholics’ MultEQ App users’ thread. |
App | PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
8. Post-Setup Checks
8.1 Room Correction Results
Checking and amending room correction results can help optimise your system.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
Pro Guide | Secrets of Audyssey | Sections included: Checking Speaker Levels, Setting Crossover, Setting Delay / Distance, Setting EQ Curve Surround Volume Levels, Audyssey Dynamic EQ, Audyssey Dynamic Volume, Editing Audyssey Results using the Audyssey App, Music Listening, Audyssey Settings per Input, etc |
Article | Configuring Audyssey – The Right Way | High level steps for configuring Audyssey after setup. |
Article | What Crossover to Choose for Your Speakers | Crossover settings overview for AVRs. |
External | Ask Audyssey – How Audyssey Calculates Speaker Trims | Speaker Trim / Level calculations by Audyssey. |
External | PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
8.2 Volume checks
Audyssey gets volume calibration pretty spot on usually, but if you want to go a step further, you can manually tune it. The only issue is that the internal test tone is not fed through the equaliser. The question is whether this is an issue. Find out using the below resources.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
Pro Guide | Secrets of Audyssey | Troubleshooting section has details on how to check relative volume on speakers after calibration. |
Pro Guide | Getting Started with Manual Calibration and REW | This guide has detailed instructions on how to check volume on the speakers after calibration. |
PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
8.3 Speakers Distance Check
Speaker distances are representative of the end to end digital delay, especially for subwoofers. in addition, there is a 6m limit between speaker distances on Denon receivers you must be aware of. Find out more about this using the below resources.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
Pro Guide | Secrets of Audyssey | – General distance checks are covered. – There is also a critical 6m max limit between speakers when setting up a Denon receiver. This is covered in detail. |
External | Ask Audyssey – Subwoofer Distance | How Audyssey calculates subwoofer distances |
External | Ask Audyssey – Speaker versus Sub distance | How Audyssey calculates main speakers versus subwoofer distance. |
PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
9. Post-Setup Configuration
9.1 Dynamic EQ & Dynamic Volume Setup
How you configure Dynamic EQ and Dynamic Volume can make or break a system. A lot of people turn them off because they haven’t learnt to configure them correctly. Use the below resources to fine-tune your system and ensure they are set up and working optimally.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
Pro Guide | Secrets of Audyssey | – Extensive Dynamic EQ and Volume setup included in the guide including theoretical background on Dynamic EQ. – Settings for per input / per source and per content type. |
Article | Audyssey Dynamic EQ and Dynamic Volume are Your Friends | Article about why dynamic EQ and volume are critical for accurate reproduction of movie soundtracks. |
Article | How to Get Audyssey Sounding as Good as Dirac Live on Your Denon or Marantz Receiver! | An article about what the effort required to get Audyssey sounding great. |
Article | How to Get Disney+ to Sound Great with Audyssey and Yamaha YPAO | Disney+ settings for Audyssey (and YPAO) |
Article | My Audyssey Settings per Input | Audyssey setting per input |
Article | Audyssey Settings for Gaming | Audyssey gaming settings. |
Article | Failsafe Audyssey Settings | Audyssey failsafe settings for those that don’t want to mess around with dynamic eq per input or per content type. |
External | Denon Manual – Audyssey Settings | Denon manual how to configure Audyssey settings |
PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION |
9.3 Amending Surround Volumes
Audyssey can at times make the surround volumes too loud. Firstly, you need to ensure that you are using the correct Reference Level Offset for the material. If that doesn’t help, Secrets of Audyssey has some recommendations on changing the surround volumes.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
Pro Guide | Secrets of Audyssey | Recommendations on changing surround volumes if needed. |
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9.4 Amending the Target Curve (including House Curves)
You can amend the target curve if you prefer something other than Audyssey’s reference curve. In addition, changing of midrange compensation to different places on the curve can also work. Finally, you can introduce particular speaker corrections using the Ratbuddyssey and BEQ apps.
Type | Resource | Notes |
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Pro Guide | Secrets of Audyssey | Includes The Audyssey Curve Editor Excel Tool that allows you to edit the target curve by editing The Audyssey App ADY file directly. This is a lot quicker and more accurate than doing it by hand. |
Pro Guide | Getting Started with Manual Calibration and REW | You need REW to be able to monitor your changes if you are aiming for a specific target curve or amending the curve. |
Article | The Big Problem with “House Curves” | Why I don’t subscribe to static house curves without taking loudness compensation principles into account. |
External | Ratbuddyssey App on Github | This is an app to hack the target curve on the Ady file generated by the Audyssey App. |
External | Ratbuddyssey App AVS Thread | Forum thread discussing the Ratbuddyssey app. |
External | BEQ (Bass EQ) 1. Bass EQ (BEQ) – AVS Forum Thread 2. MiniDSP – BEQ Designer Page 3. BEQ Designer Product Page | BEQ aims to restore low-level bass in moves that was filtered out during mastering for home delivery. Please note that you need very capable subwoofers and appropriate protection in place that you don’t damage your system! |
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10. Integration
10.1 Universal Remotes
I find that I cannot live without my universal remote. One press of a button and all equipment is turned on exactly in the configuration that is needed for the particular activity. Find below the resources you can use to do the same.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
External | Tom’s Hardware – Best Universal Remotes | Reviews of the best universal remotes (2022 edition) |
External | Audioholics – Facing a Post Harmony World | Very bottom of the article has some advice on what to do now that Logitech has existed the market. |
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10.2 Hardware triggers
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
External | TBC | |
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11. Troubleshooting
11.1 Video issues
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
Article | Resolve Dual-HDMI Handshake Issues on AVRs | Some ideas about how to resolve dual HDMI issues. |
External | Denon Support – Common Initial Setup Issues | Common setup issues for Denon AVRs from Denon support. |
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11.2 Audio Issues
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
Pro Guide | Secrets of Audyssey | Troubleshooting section covering the following: 1. Sound Field Sounds Disjointed 2 Subwoofer Too Weak / Too Hot 3 Resolving Harshness |
Article | Serious Issue with IMAX Enhanced on Receivers | Why IMAX Enhanced setting is not that great! |
External | Denon Support – Common Initial Setup Issues | Common setup issues for Denon AVRs from Denon support |
External | Denon Manual – Audyssey Error Messages | Common Audyssey error messages from the Denon manual. |
External | Denon Manual – Restoring Audyssey Settings | How to restore Audyssey settings from the memory of your AVR if you managed to change something that messed things up. |
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12. Regular Maintenance Tasks
12.1 Power Cycling
Power cycling allows the components to discharge and microprocessors to reboot, avoiding playback issues. If the AVR is used for critical playback (e.g. in a commercial or semi-commercial setting), it is best to do a power cycle at the beginning of each day or before each critical session. Unplug / switch the unit off at the wall for a few minutes then turn it back on.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
External | TBC | |
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12.2 Extended Unplugging
It is a good idea to unplug the unit from the wall from time to time for an extended period (for hours). This allows the internal components to not be under constant voltage and let them relax. It also forces a hard reboot whereby the microprocessors and DSPs of the unit reset. It can avoid errors or issues during playback and can also prolong your hardware.
I would recommend you unplug your unit at least once every 3 months, but you can do it once a month or even once a week if you’re so inclined.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
External | TBC | |
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12.3 Firmware updates
It is NOT advisable to have the unit install firmware automatically as there could be issues with firmware updates that could brick / kill your unit. It is best to set up a regular calendar reminder for every 6-12 months to check for the latest firmware. However, there is a saying: “if it ain’t broke, don’t fit it” and it certainly applies here. If everything is working as it should and there is nothing in the firmware change log that is important for you, it’s best to leave things as is, otherwise you risk introducing further bugs or headaches for your particular setup.
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
External | AVSForum – Receivers (US) AVForums – Receivers (UK) StereoNet Receivers (AU) | Check user experiences in the owners’ threads. |
External | Denon Manual – Firmware Update | Procuring for doing a firmware update. |
External | Denon Support – Firmware Update Check | How to do a firmware check. |
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Closing Notes
Type | Resource | Notes |
---|---|---|
External | TBC | |
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