Denon AVR – Ultimate Setup Guide

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

StepDescriptionLink to
Section
0General ResourcesGO
1Planning
– AVR Selection
– Sources –> Inputs
– Outputs –> Displays
– Speaker Configuration –> Amp Config
– Physical placement –> cable runs
– Miscellaneous (Network etc)
GO
2Physical 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
3Initial AVR Setup
– Video output checks
– Network Configuration
– Amp Configuration
– Initial testing
GO
4Source Setup
– Input assignments
– Source re-name
GO
5Running of External Equalisation
– MiniDSP / PEQ / MSO / Dirac Live
– Subwoofer EQ
GO
6Room & Speaker Setup
– Room Treatment
– Listening Place Selection
– Speaker Alignment / Positioning
GO
7Running Room Correction / Audyssey
– Mic Setup
– Pre-run checks
– Selecting a mic pattern
– Running Audyssey (On Receiver, App, MultEQ-X)
GO
8Post-Setup Checks
– Room Correction Results
– Volume checks
– 6m distance check
GO
9Post-Setup Configuration
– Dynamic EQ
– Dynamic Volume
– Surround Volumes
GO
10Integration
– Universal Remotes
– Hardware triggers
– Home Automation & Lighting
GO
11Troubleshooting
– Video issues
– Audio Issues
GO
12Regular Maintenance Tasks
– Power Cycling
– Regular Unplugging
– Firmware updates
GO
Closing NotesGO

Setup Guide

0. General Resources

TypeResourceNotes
Pro GuideSecrets of AudysseyPro 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.
ExternalDenon Global WebsiteThis guide will reference US resources.
For country-specific resources you can navigate from here.
ExternalAVS ForumUS Audio Visual Forum
ExternalAVForumsUK Audio Visual Forum
ExternalStereoNetAustralia / New Zealand Audio Visual Forum
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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.

TypeResourceNotes
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.

TypeResourceNotes
ArticleChoosing the Best Denon Receiver2021-22 Denon AVR lineup
ExternalDenon Website – List of ReceiversDenon AVR USA lineup
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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).

TypeResourceNotes
ExternalDenon Manual – Connecting Input Devices6700H Manual – suitable as general info
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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.

TypeResourceNotes
ExternalDenon Manual – Connecting Displays6700H Manual – suitable as general info
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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.

TypeResourceNotes
ExternalDenon Manual – Speaker installationPlan out speaker placement using this part of the manual
ExternalDenon Manual – Amp Config6700H Manual – suitable as general info
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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?

TypeResourceNotes
ExternalDenon Manual – Speaker installationPlan out speaker placement using this part of the manual
ExternalDenon Manual – Label Speaker CablesUse 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.
ExternalWhich Cable Size / Gauge to BuyThe table is excellent at working out the ideal wire gauge to buy for your speaker runs.
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1.6 Planning – Miscellaneous

Power, network and trigger cables also need to be planned out.

TypeResourceNotes
ExternalDenon Manual – Network ConnectionsPlan out how you will connect the receiver – Wired or Wireless Lan
ExternalDenon Manual – Trigger outs and Control JacksPlan 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.

TypeResourceNotes
ExternalWhich Cable Size / Gauge to BuyThe table is excellent at working out the ideal wire gauge to buy for your speaker runs.
ExternalAVGadgets – Running Speaker WiresThis is a great article that gives you some options for running cables.
ExternalSVS – How to Hide Speaker WiresGreat suggestions for hiding speaker wiring.
ExternalCrutchfield – How to Wire within WallsThis article is for those that want to get right into DIY and maybe follow along. Lots of great pictures for demonstrating the steps too.
ExternalSoundOnSound – Cable shielding / Balanced and Unbalanced cablesThis 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.

TypeResourceNotes
ExternalDenon Support – AVR Ventilation requirementsHow much space you need around your Denon AVR right from the horse’s mouth.
ExternalHow much space do you need around your AV ReceiverThis is a great article from Home Theatre Heroes on AVR placement and ventilation.
ExternalACInfinity 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.
ExternalACInfinity Cabinet FansI 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.

TypeResourceNotes
Pro GuideSecrets of AudysseySection 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.
ExternalMiniDSPMiniDSP 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).
ExternalLumagen Video ProcessorsLumagen’s Radiance products are very popular amongst enthusiasts.
ExternalLumagen Radiance Installation NotesUseful as a quick connection guide for radiance processors.
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2.4 Physical connections – Audio / Video / Speakers

Connecting audio / video cables as well as speakers to your AVR happens next.

TypeResourceNotes
ArticleHow to connect up your new Home Cinema Receiver?Simple Home Cinema article explaining some basic connections.
ArticleHow to wire up your speakers!Simple Home Cinema article explaining some basics around speaker connections.
ExternalRoger Russell – Speaker ConnectionsInteresting tidbit on speaker connections.
ExternalDenon Manual – Connection TypesVisual of the different connection types into your Denon receiver.
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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.

TypeResourceNotes
ExternalDenon Manual – Connecting AVR to NetworkDenon manual on how to connect AVR to network.
ExternalDenon Support – Connecting AVR to NetworkDenon support on how to connect AVR to network.
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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.

TypeResourceNotes
ExternalDenon Manual – Amp Power OnHow to power on your AVR.
ExternalDenon Manual – HDMI Output SettingsHow to set up HDMI output on your AVR.
ExternalDenon Manual – Video Conversion SetupHow 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).

TypeResourceNotes
ExternalDenon Manual – Network SetupHow to configure network on your AVR.
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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.

TypeResourceNotes
ExternalAVSForum – Receivers (US)
AVForums – Receivers (UK)
StereoNet Receivers (AU)
Check user experiences in the owners’ threads.
ExternalDenon Manual – Firmware UpdateProcuring for doing a firmware update.
ExternalDenon Support – Firmware Update CheckHow to do a firmware check.
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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.

TypeResourceNotes
ExternalDenon Manual – Speaker PresetNewer Denon units have 2 speaker preset memories. You may need to choose one if you are setting up a second speaker memory.
ExternalDenon Manual – Amp AssignThis is the function you use to select the amp assignment within your AVR. Check this before running automatic calibration.
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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.

TypeResourceNotes
ExternalDenon Manual – Speaker LevelsRun 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.

TypeResourceNotes
ExternalDenon Manual – Input AssignHow to assign the different video and audio inputs to sources.
ExternalDenon Manual – Hide SourcesHow to hide sources that you won’t be using for ease of use!
ExternalDenon Manual – Source RenameHow 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.

TypeResourceNotes
ExternalDenon Manual – Source LevelIf 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.
ExternalAsk Audyssey – Speaker Delays in Blu Ray Player SettingsThe 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.

TypeResourceNotes
ArticleApple TV 4K versus Xbox Series X / Xbox One X for Media PlaybackArticle on streaming quality between Xbox and Apple TV.
ExternalWhat Hifi – Adding Streamers to Your SetupAudio streaming configuration.
ExternalDenon Support – Setting up Chromecast for Streaming ServicesChromecast 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.

TypeResourceNotes
ExternalDenon Support – Issues with 4K/120 and 8K on some receiversWhat if you have issues getting 4K/120 or 8K/60 on your 2021 Denon AVR.
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4.6 Configuring Other Sources

The below resources are for USB playback, bluetooth devices, internet radio and other device configuration.

TypeResourceNotes
ExternalDenon Manual – USB Playback
Denon Manual – USB Playback Supported Filed Types
USB Device Playback
ExternalDenon Manual – Bluetooth DevicesBluetooth Device Playback
ExternalDenon Manual – Internet RadioInternet 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.

TypeResourceNotes
Pro GuideSecrets of AudysseySection 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 GuideGetting Started with Manual Calibration and REWThis guide can help you work with REW to tune your EQ / DSP / etc.
ExternalMiniDSPMiniDSP 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).

TypeResourceNotes
Pro GuideSecrets of AudysseyChapter 4. Running Audyssey. Subwoofer EQ and MSO covered.
Pro GuideGetting Started with Manual Calibration and REWThis guide can help you work with REW to tune your subwoofer EQ.
ExternalMiniDSP 2x4HDThese MiniDSP units are great for setting up multiple subwoofers (especially when used with Multi-Sub Optimiser (MSO)
ExternalMulti Sub Optimiser(MSO)State of the Art EQ modelling to be used with a MiniDSP
(or other EQ solution)
ExternalAsk Audyssey – Subwoofer SetupHow to set up your subwoofer from Audyssey directly.
ExternalBEQ (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.

TypeResourceNotes
Pro GuideSecrets of AudysseyA whole chapter in Secrets of Audyssey deals with where to place room treatment and why.
Pro GuideThe Room Treatment GuideThis guide goes into a lot more detail in 30+ pages. It also shows you how to build DIY room treatment cheaply.
ArticleConfiguring Audyssey – The Right WayThis article touches on room treatment.
ArticleWhy Audyssey Sounds Best with Room TreatmentWhy Audyssey requires room treatment to sound its best!
ExternalAmroc Room Modes CalculatorAmroc Room Mode Calculator – brilliant tool for estimating room modes and planning room treatment.
ExternalLoudspeaker CalculatorCan be used to plan room treatment as well.
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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.

TypeResourceNotes
Pro GuideSecrets of AudysseyA brief chapter on how to select your listening place in your room.
Pro GuideConfiguring Audyssey – The Right WayBrief notes on listening place selection.
ExternalLoudspeaker CalculatorCan be used to plan listening position and speaker angles.
ExternalPLEASE 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.

TypeResourceNotes
Pro GuideSecrets of AudysseyDetailed notes and issues regarding speaker placement and alignment.
Pro GuideConfiguring Audyssey – The Right WayHigh-level notes regarding speaker placement and alignment.
ArticleHow to choose the best positions for your Home Cinema SpeakersGeneral positioning guide.
ArticleHow High to Position Your Surround SpeakersThis article tackles issues with Dolby’s general recommendations on height of surround speakers especially regarding ATMOS.
ExternalDenon Manual – Speaker PlacementIf you go into your specific speaker configuration, there are pictures to help you position your speakers.
ExternalDolby’s Speaker Setup GuidesThis is Dolby’s older guide for 5.1, 7.1 and 9.1 setups.
ExternalDolby’s Atmos Setup GuideThis is more appropriate for Atmos enabled AVRs even if you don’t plan to use height / ceiling speakers.
ExternalTrinnov’s DTS:X GuideThis is pretty much the most comprehensive.
ExternalLoudspeaker CalculatorThe 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.
ExternalAmroc Room Modes CalculatorAmroc Room Mode Calculator – brilliant tool for estimating room modes and planning room treatment.
ExternalAuralex Speaker Positioning GuideI 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!
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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:

TypeResourceNotes
ArticleDirac Live vs Audyssey vs YPAO R.S.C.Article comparing Audyssey to Dirac and YPAO.
ArticleAudyssey MultEQ-X Features and ThoughtsMultEQ-X Launch Article
ExternalAsk Audyssey – Audyssey’s Support PageAudyssey’s support page with lots of useful information
ExternalAVS Forums – Audyssey FAQAn excellent Audyssey resource on AVR Forum
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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.

TypeResourceNotes
Pro GuideSecrets of AudysseyDo’s and Don’s of Microphone setup. (detailed)
ArticleConfiguring Audyssey – The Right WayDo’s and Don’s of Microphone setup. (high level)
ExternalAsk Audyssey – Mic Positioning GuideThis is quite old now but still relevant.
ExternalAsk Audyssey – Can I use Any Mic?Audyssey support – Audyssey Mic from other receivers
ExternalAsk Audyssey – Mic Cable Too ShortWhat if the mic cable is too short, what can you do?
ExternalAVS Audyssey Mic Positioning GuideAVS Mic positioning write-up
ExternalAVS Forums – Audyssey FAQThere are specific Mic positioning information on AVS as well.
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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.

TypeResourceNotes
Pro GuideSecrets of Audyssey– 5 Microphone Patterns (Tight, Medium, Wide A, Wide B, Restricted)
– Also suggestion on how to improve performance using MultEQ-X.
ArticleConfiguring Audyssey – The Right WayA basic mic pattern is discussed.
ExternalAsk Audyssey – Mic Positioning GuideAudyssey’s mic positioning guidance from their support page.
ExternalAsk Audyssey – Non-standard layoutWhat about non-standard layouts on Audyssey’s support page.
ExternalPLEASE 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!

TypeResourceNotes
Pro GuideSecrets of Audyssey– Extensive discussion from prep to mic placement to running the algorithm.
– Info discussing how MultEQ-X can help to improve performance.
ArticleConfiguring Audyssey – The Right WayHigh-level discussion on running Audyssey.
ArticleAudyssey Midrange Compensation – On or Off? – Denon and Marantz ReceiversSpecific guidance on when to use midrange compensation.
ArticleIdeas for Using MultEQ-X to Improve Audyssey PerformanceArticle discussing how MultEQ-X can help to improve performance.
ExternalDenon Manual – Running Audyssey
ExternalOriginal Audyssey Setup Guide from AVS ForumsThis is quite old now but can provide some good background.
ExternalAudyssey – MultEQ-X User GuideAudyssey’s MultEQ-X User Guide for the PC app. This is an updated version of the old Pro user guide pretty much (see below).
ExternalAudyssey – MultEQ Pro User GuideThis is the old Audyssey Pro User Guide. It can provide some interesting tidbits.
AppApple App Store – MultEQ App
Google Play Store – MultEQ App
Audyssey MultEQ App for Phones and Tablets
ExternalDenon’s MultEQ App PageHigh-Level information about The Audyssey App from Denon.
ExternalAudioholics – MultEQ App User ThreadAudioholics’ MultEQ App users’ thread.
AppPLEASE 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.

TypeResourceNotes
Pro GuideSecrets of AudysseySections 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
ArticleConfiguring Audyssey – The Right WayHigh level steps for configuring Audyssey after setup.
ArticleWhat Crossover to Choose for Your SpeakersCrossover settings overview for AVRs.
ExternalAsk Audyssey – How Audyssey Calculates Speaker TrimsSpeaker Trim / Level calculations by Audyssey.
ExternalPLEASE 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.

TypeResourceNotes
Pro GuideSecrets of AudysseyTroubleshooting section has details on how to check relative volume on speakers after calibration.
Pro GuideGetting Started with Manual Calibration and REWThis guide has detailed instructions on how to check volume on the speakers after calibration.
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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.

TypeResourceNotes
Pro GuideSecrets 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.
ExternalAsk Audyssey – Subwoofer DistanceHow Audyssey calculates subwoofer distances
ExternalAsk Audyssey – Speaker versus Sub distanceHow Audyssey calculates main speakers versus subwoofer distance.
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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.

TypeResourceNotes
Pro GuideSecrets 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.
ArticleAudyssey Dynamic EQ and Dynamic Volume are Your FriendsArticle about why dynamic EQ and volume are critical for accurate reproduction of movie soundtracks.
ArticleHow 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.
ArticleHow to Get Disney+ to Sound Great with Audyssey and Yamaha YPAODisney+ settings for Audyssey (and YPAO)
ArticleMy Audyssey Settings per InputAudyssey setting per input
ArticleAudyssey Settings for GamingAudyssey gaming settings.
ArticleFailsafe Audyssey SettingsAudyssey failsafe settings for those that don’t want to mess around with dynamic eq per input or per content type.
ExternalDenon Manual – Audyssey SettingsDenon manual how to configure Audyssey settings
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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.

TypeResourceNotes
Pro GuideSecrets of AudysseyRecommendations 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.

TypeResourceNotes
Pro GuideSecrets of AudysseyIncludes 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 GuideGetting Started with Manual Calibration and REWYou need REW to be able to monitor your changes if you are aiming for a specific target curve or amending the curve.
ArticleThe Big Problem with “House Curves”Why I don’t subscribe to static house curves without taking loudness compensation principles into account.
ExternalRatbuddyssey App on GithubThis is an app to hack the target curve on the Ady file generated by the Audyssey App.
ExternalRatbuddyssey App AVS ThreadForum thread discussing the Ratbuddyssey app.
ExternalBEQ (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!
PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION

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.

TypeResourceNotes
ExternalTom’s Hardware – Best Universal RemotesReviews of the best universal remotes (2022 edition)
ExternalAudioholics – Facing a Post Harmony WorldVery bottom of the article has some advice on what to do now that Logitech has existed the market.
PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION

10.2 Hardware triggers

TypeResourceNotes
ExternalTBC
PLEASE SUGGEST OTHER LINKS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION

11. Troubleshooting

11.1 Video issues

TypeResourceNotes
ArticleResolve Dual-HDMI Handshake Issues on AVRsSome ideas about how to resolve dual HDMI issues.
ExternalDenon Support – Common Initial Setup IssuesCommon setup issues for Denon AVRs from Denon support.
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11.2 Audio Issues

TypeResourceNotes
Pro GuideSecrets of AudysseyTroubleshooting section covering the following:
1. Sound Field Sounds Disjointed
2 Subwoofer Too Weak / Too Hot
3 Resolving Harshness
ArticleSerious Issue with IMAX Enhanced on ReceiversWhy IMAX Enhanced setting is not that great!
ExternalDenon Support – Common Initial Setup IssuesCommon setup issues for Denon AVRs from Denon support
ExternalDenon Manual – Audyssey Error MessagesCommon Audyssey error messages from the Denon manual.
ExternalDenon Manual – Restoring Audyssey SettingsHow 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.

TypeResourceNotes
ExternalTBC
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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.

TypeResourceNotes
ExternalTBC
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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.

TypeResourceNotes
ExternalAVSForum – Receivers (US)
AVForums – Receivers (UK)
StereoNet Receivers (AU)
Check user experiences in the owners’ threads.
ExternalDenon Manual – Firmware UpdateProcuring for doing a firmware update.
ExternalDenon Support – Firmware Update CheckHow to do a firmware check.
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Closing Notes

TypeResourceNotes
ExternalTBC
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