Comments for Denon AVR-2309CI 7.1 A/V Receiver at http://www.hometheaterhifi.com , comment 1 to 35 out of 20 comments http://www.hometheaterhifi.com Fri, 10 Feb 2012 01:10:43 +0100 FeedCreator 1.7.3 http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/receivers/498-a-secrets-receiver-review.html#comment-2365 Hey John, just wondering if you had any problems w/ the TiVo and DRM if you hooked it up by HDMI? A previous Denon receiver would not work w/ tivo and HDMI. - marcus Wed, 11 Nov 2009 04:04:42 +0100 http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/receivers/498-a-secrets-receiver-review.html#comment-1826 Got one yesterday to replace my existing Denon receiver which is about 10 years. I was really surprised how the receiver took control and recognized all of my devices (Sat TV/Tivo/Blu-Ray DVD/Recordable DVD Player) with no additional setup. Had a little difficulty with the speaker calibration, but tweeked the Center Channel slightly to have the main voice louder. Love the new reciever... - John Rossi Mon, 04 May 2009 11:48:25 +0100 http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/receivers/498-a-secrets-receiver-review.html#comment-1787 I have been a 2-channel stereo guy since 1983. I currently have a Music Hall Integrated amp, Music Hall CD player and Celestion 6si speakers. I find it hard to imagine that any receiver can do both the over processed movie sound tracks and then still be able to render a high quality stereo image. I like the idea of having a pre/pro and a dedicated 3,5 or 7 channel amp to drive any speaker set I may want to use. I know the allure of the receiver is the "all-in-one" packaging. I am an old electronics tech as well. I know from experience that I prefer simplicity. The more complex a componet is the more likely a problem will occur. This is not to say that the Denon will not end up in my system, only that if I have the finances and it has a high WAF, I would prefer separates. - James Wed, 22 Apr 2009 07:47:14 +0100 http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/receivers/498-a-secrets-receiver-review.html#comment-1762 To Virginia and others having setup issues - check out http://batpigworld.com/ I'm hoping to pick up a 2309 in the next few days (need to find time to stop by my dealer), so I haven't tried setting this monster up yet, but I found that "Batpig" has done a pretty good job if explaining what Denon has apparently come up a bit short on. Good luck! - James Tue, 14 Apr 2009 22:18:00 +0100 http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/receivers/498-a-secrets-receiver-review.html#comment-1756 Well, I just unboxed and set this unit up today. So far I really like it. But when you hear people complain about the manual and settings being ridiculously unintuitive and difficult, BELIEVE THEM. I was actually excited to get this unit hooked up so I could fiddle with all the settings and learn how to use it. I had no idea what was in store for me. The settings are really foolishly put together, and the manual is all over the place. Also, the remote is a bit of a pain to use. I couldn't figure out how to use the shift buttons on the front side of it, so I had to keep opening up the back of it instead. Luckily, I have a Harmony One universal remote (just got that too...), so getting the few buttons I needed programmed into that made things much easier. I had a couple issues with the HDMI and my TV, but I figured out what was causing them. Make sure not to turn on HDMI Control unless you know your TV won't have any problems with it. I have a Mitsubishi WD-65734, and after I enabled that option, I had a really tough time getting things working again. But with those few issues aside, I really like this unit. The front is very simple looking with few buttons and dials on it (though sometimes I wish they had a few MORE buttons there, like for specific inputs and DSPs). The sound is great. I upgraded from an Integra DTR-7.2 (older 5.1 system), and the new HD formats sound great. I was afraid that this Denon may not have enough power to run my speakers, but it has had no trouble at all. I haven't really listened to the Audyssey settings too much yet, but I did run the auto setup speaker calibration, so I'll try the Audyssey sometime soon. I don't have anything hooked up to it that isn't already outputting at 1080p via HDMI (PS3, X360, and a PC), so I can't comment on its video scaling and conversion. But from everything I've heard, it's pretty good. I got my unit from 6thave.com, for just over $600. I chose them because they are an authorized e-tailer for Denon. I've heard Denon is strict with their warranties, and may not support your unit for the full 3 years if you didn't buy it from one of their authorized sites. Anyways, great unit so far. Great audio, passes HDMI just fine, and it was about HALF the price of my old Integra DTR-7.2. I'm very satisfied so far. - Aaron Mon, 13 Apr 2009 13:01:46 +0100 http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/receivers/498-a-secrets-receiver-review.html#comment-1754 Kramar....I Just recently purchased the Denon2309ci and think it sound great and does well with the video upconversion, pictures now look better on my 52" Sony Bravia then they did before on a direct to TV hookup. All using Component video lines except Bluray player(HDMI). I am learning lots and do need some help..... My Starchoice Satelite has a DVI hook up with HDMI connection at other end of cable. I know this carries no sound but it WILL NOT work for any video using the Denon receiver...why? I am forced to use the compontent connection. - Ross Hoo Sun, 12 Apr 2009 23:38:19 +0100 http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/receivers/498-a-secrets-receiver-review.html#comment-1746 Currently I watch alot of television via digital cable box with HDMI cable to a new Samsung 55" LED screen. I have not invested in a new receiver yet and am wondering if running an HDMI cable from the cable box through a receiver with decent video upscaling will improve the picture quality of non-HD programs. If so, which receiver would you recommend? I am leaning toward Denon or Marantz for sound quality but am confused about video performance. It seems from reviews that Denon's video upscaling is better than Marantz. Is there a big difference in video performance between the Denon 2309CI and the2809CI? Thanks!!! - J Kramar Wed, 08 Apr 2009 08:36:13 +0100 http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/receivers/498-a-secrets-receiver-review.html#comment-1649 Blair- I can't really comment on the 1909 as I have not heard it. Virginia- Sorry to hear about the setup hassles. I recommend you contact Denon if you are really having trouble. Also, provide them with feedback about the manual. That's the only way a company can truly know what their customers think! - Gabriel Lowe Sat, 07 Mar 2009 20:59:33 +0100 http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/receivers/498-a-secrets-receiver-review.html#comment-1648 Hi, I'm waiting for my 2309 to come into stock, probably this week. I'll have pretty similar sources to those mentioned in the review: Satellite tuner (Humax Foxsat HDR) Digital terrestrial TV tuner (unknown at this time) DVD player (Denon DVD-1740) XBox 360 Elite PS3 Wii MP3 player (Creative Zen) Laptop The Satellite tuner, DVD-1740, XBox & PS3 will be connected to the AVR-2309 by HDMI alone, though I may also connect the DVD-1740 by stereo phono for analog audio. If the DTT tuner has a HDMI output, I'll connect it to the TV (TH-50PZ80) with that, and to the AVR-2309 by optical or coaxial - whichever the tuner has. If not, I'll connect it to the AVR-2309 by component and optical/coaxial. I'll connect the Wii like you did - to one of the component inputs for video and to a stereo phono input for audio. How did you you assign the inputs so that the audio could be heard along with the video being seen? I'm asking in advance of doing some work on the AV wall, so that I can install & conceal all the correct cables. Thanks, Mark - Mark Sat, 07 Mar 2009 20:57:53 +0100 http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/receivers/498-a-secrets-receiver-review.html#comment-1627 I too thank you for this review. I only wish you could come here and set ours up. OY! it seems I am spending forever with this manual. It would be nice if they'd made a set-up for dummies manual. I can't for the life of me get the other rooms' speakers to run. - Virginia Mon, 02 Mar 2009 11:39:54 +0100 http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/receivers/498-a-secrets-receiver-review.html#comment-1615 Not being an IT person but appreciating the value of good research and practical opinions, I must say "thanks" for a good review and input. I have spent a number of hours comparing the comparable Yamaha; Pioneer and Onkyo AVR's. This review helped me go with Denon. Will let you know how it goes. - Kevin Sat, 28 Feb 2009 17:06:23 +0100 http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/receivers/498-a-secrets-receiver-review.html#comment-1564 Nice review! Gabriel, would you say the sound quality of two-channel audio for music on the AVR-2309 is identical or almost identical to the AVR-1909? - Blair Fri, 20 Feb 2009 06:38:54 +0100 http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/receivers/498-a-secrets-receiver-review.html#comment-1526 The analogy is close enough to get the point across. I wouldn't say I have an ongoing conversation with Kurt regarding the topic, but I will definitely expand upon it in the blog. Look for it in April. - Andrew Yang Thu, 12 Feb 2009 18:26:50 +0100 http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/receivers/498-a-secrets-receiver-review.html#comment-1525 Well Thank You! So I understand you correctly, Example: The PS3 was manufactured before 120 Hz motion speed was mainstream. So adding a 120 Hz Monster 1000 HD cable would be akin to the 90's era of putting a 56k modem on a 28.8 telephone line. Yeah the modem is better, but in can only handle the speed of the source line itself so it won't transmit at 56k anyway? Is this the same idea? BTW please keep me posted on your findings with Kurt @ BJC. I'll be checking them out right now. Thanks Again. Jonathan - Jonathan Thu, 12 Feb 2009 13:50:43 +0100 http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/receivers/498-a-secrets-receiver-review.html#comment-1522 Jonathan, The owner of Blue Jeans Cable has written at length regarding digital and cables. I've had some correspondence with Kurt over at BJC regarding the topic more generally as well. First off, the idea that digital either gets there or doesn't isn't quite the axiom that many hold it to be. While there are definitely instances where that is true, there is a lower bound below which there is data loss. Having said that, Monster's done a fantastic job marketing the benefits of their cables, in case the sarcasm is lost in the text, that would be a sarcastic statement. I'll be blogging here in the next couple months on this topic. The signal sent from any consumer video source today 1) not capable of higher than 60 Hz and 2) with the exception of newer camcorders, not capable of sending deep color. So while it has been shown that in the case a much higher bit-rate signal does degrade if the cable is not suitably constructed, the current target remains 1080p/60 Hz/24 bit. The 60 Hz to 120 Hz (or 240 Hz or 480 Hz) conversion happens in the display and not at the source. Not to put words in Gabe's mouth, but I would think he'd be in agreement? Gabe? - Andrew Yang Wed, 11 Feb 2009 12:38:12 +0100 http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/receivers/498-a-secrets-receiver-review.html#comment-1521 Beyond reproach review! Thank You! Certainly learned a lot and is inspiring to learn more to maximize full use and benefit of AV Receivers. Read the Onkyo 806 review and was scared enough of the underpower/overheat potential problem. I would think the same problem would be with the Onkyo 706 as well. After your posts, I'm nearly sold on the Denon, but I am also considering the Pioneer VSX 01 or VSX 03 with the anti jitter feature for VHS/DVD. MY question is about bi amplification. Both the Onkyo/Denon seem to have this, I'm thinking this is the A, B, AB speaker button function which is not avail on the Pioneer models mentioned. So if I chose the Pioneer, I'm guessing an external power amplifier would be needed. I would greatly appreciate your input, as most BB and CC employees don't even know what I am talking about. I have a Samsung 61a750 DLP with LED, Definitive Technology Mythos 1 Towers, Energy 5.1 (will be upgrading to match DT Mythos line), Sony BDP BX1 (I'm told same as BDP 350) got from Costco. Question here is (of course to be responsible and eliminate as many quest. as poss. I read the review), but the question remains can this player as well as 350 produce 7.1 like the 550 or does it not matter b/c both go thru AV Rcvr? Lastly there is a lot of stuff on the www about cables. I get that there digital and it either works or doesn't, but what about these new Monster 1000 cables that claim the 120 HZ speed over those 60 HZ speed cables. Is there a diff here. I apologize in advance for these quest., but to be honest this site and your input is trustworthy. I belong to AVS forum and can hardly believe the shady/tainted/bias comments. Thank You very much. I would be very grateful for your inputs. - Jonathan Wed, 11 Feb 2009 10:32:12 +0100 http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/receivers/498-a-secrets-receiver-review.html#comment-1464 Thanks for the comments everyone! To answer a few questions: 1) Of those three receivers, I have only personally used this Denon, though we also have a review of the TX-SR806. I have owned all three brands, and have been happy with them all. I think you should definitely read our review of the 806. Both that review and this one point out the positives and negatives, and your choice will likely come down to which one has a combination of the best feature set and least amount of compromises for your taste. I can't say about the Yamaha, unfortunately, but again, I had an RX-V992 for many years that was quite wonderful. 2) As far as those Gershman Acoustics speakers, I suppose it depends on the size of your room and how loud you like to play your media, but as those are 8ohm speakers, you will probably be fine. I don't really see specs on their site as to what they recommend as far as power goes to drive them. You might want to shoot them an email and ask. 3) As Aaron writes, you CAN turn off any video processing for a given source so the native resolution is passed through. 4) Bill - sorry, I have no experience with the Marantz receiver. They definitely put out quality products, but so does Denon. Perhaps the feature set should help guide your decision. 5) Erik - to your point about ethernet. I find that there are more and more streaming/server type devices that can handle the network stuff outside of the receiver itself, so this will be less and less important as time goes on. Just my opinion. - Gabriel Lowe Wed, 28 Jan 2009 17:40:24 +0100 http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/receivers/498-a-secrets-receiver-review.html#comment-1458 thank you for taking the time to review the 2309ci. i purchased this unit today. it is my 1st receiver. given that i am using a ps3 to play games and watch movies on my samsung la46a650i via hdmi i think it will serve my needs with aplomb. i also picked up the denon asd-3n to stream internet radio via my ipod touch. it would have been wonderful for the 2309ci to have ethernet or a usb, but this solution should work for me. - erik in chicago Tue, 27 Jan 2009 18:19:18 +0100 http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/receivers/498-a-secrets-receiver-review.html#comment-1455 This is by far the most comprehensive, detailed and objective review of the 2309 I've found anywhere on the www. I've found it immensely revealing and helpful. I'm getting mine in a month or so. Many thanks for performing and piblishing it. Mark, Dublin, Ireland - Mark Tue, 27 Jan 2009 02:38:51 +0100 http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/receivers/498-a-secrets-receiver-review.html#comment-1412 Thank you for your excellent review of the 2309CI. I currently have a Marantz SR5600 which I am very pleased with but is pre HDMI and does not have the ability to decode the new HD codecs. I would like to update my receiver and it is between the three above. The new Denon's are more featured packed than the Marantz. For approximately the same money, which one would you recommend? - Bill Tue, 13 Jan 2009 14:46:52 +0100