The Denon AVR-391 is a AV Home Theater Receiver that will enable one to watch videos from a CD, laptop computer, HD camcorder, gaming console, iPod, cable or satellite set top box. This lightweight receiver uses HDMI technology and offers high definition audio support. It comes with a remote control that can be synced with other home theater appliances and weighs only twenty pounds (about 10 kg.) Following is an overview of this home theater receiver cum amplifier and what it has to offer.
Product Specifications Of Denon AVR-391
The Denon AVR-391 has a powerful five channel amplifier that delivers high quality sound and picture. It is made using 1080p compatible HDMI technology so that only a single cable needs to be used to connect the AVR to the TV. All of the latest surround sound technologies are supported and up to five speakers can be connected to this device. A person who is looking for a machine with loud sound cannot go wrong in purchasing this device.
As was noted above, a wide range of media can be connected to the AVR machine. Furthermore, the Denon AVR-391 has a unique compressed audio restoration device that improves the sound quality and dynamics of an audio or video that is being played off of an iPod or other audio device. This device is also fully Blu-ray and Broadcast compatible.
The Denon AVR-391 was designed to not only be fully functional but also practical and ergonomic.The buttons are laid out in such a way that one will not have a problem finding the feature he or she needs in a matter of seconds. All buttons and controls are clearly labeled. The Denon AVR-391 not only includes a receiver, amplifier and remote control but also batteries for the remote, AM/FM antennas and operating instructions.
What are the Advantages of Purchasing an AVR-391?
Before buying this machine, it is helpful to evaluate both its advantages and disadvantages. Overall, the Denon AVR-391 has gotten very good review ratings from those who have purchased it. It currently has a rating of four out of five stars, based on dozens of independent customer reviews.
A number of people who have purchased the AVR-391 have commented that it is good overall value for the money. While it does not have as many features as similar machines, it is cost effective and has all of the features that the average individual would need and use. This is an important point to note, as many machines of this nature include many more features than the AVR-391 but are also quite pricey. Denon, on the other hand, has focused on creating a machine that has all that one will really need at a price that most anyone can afford.
Those who have purchased this unit have also been very happy with its audio and video capabilities. The audio works as advertised – it is loud, powerful and clear, no matter what the original source of the audio is or what file type is being played. The Denon AVR-391 is ideal for use in playing a computer or Wii game as the unit is designed to be fully compatible with all gaming consoles. Nearly all video file types can be played on this machine, enabling one to watch videos from a variety of different sources.
Another advantage to this device is that it is easy to set up and use. While there is no on screen menu for connecting the speakers, it is easy to do manually using the units display. The remote is easy to read without having to consult the owner’s manual. Those who are using an iPod with this machine will find that while the on screen menu is not particularly good looking, it is clear and self-explanatory.
What are the Disadvantages?
The Denon AVR-391, like every other home theater device, is not perfect and does have its flaws. More than one person has noted the fact that the design of the AVR itself is not particularly aesthetic or sleek. The remote control, while fully functional, is not as ergonomic and can be classified as mediocre at best. Despite this fact, the remote can be successfully configured to control the entire home theater set up, not just the Denon AVR-391.
The main complaint again the Denon AVR-391 is the fact that many customers have had a problem with the unit freezing up. This is, unfortunately, a known problem that Denon has been dealing with for some time. While many customers have never experienced this problem and give the unit high review ratings, others have noted that the unit freezes up regularly and must be unplugged and plugged back in to remedy the problem.
Unfortunately, Denon also does not get high customer service review ratings. Those who have had problems with the device have found it difficult to get the necessary help from Denon’s tech support staff. Furthermore, returning the device and obtaining a refund from the company itself is not easy, although it is in many cases possible to return the item to the retailer for either a refund or exchange.
In Summary
The Denon AVR-391 is not the most modern, ergonomic, sleek AVR machine available. However, it is an ideal option for those who are looking for a machine that is affordable and has a wide range of capabilities. Unlike many other machines of this nature, the AVR-391 can be purchased for anywhere from $180 up to $300. The AVR-391 can play a wide range of media and has excellent picture and sound. It is easy to set up and use and many have found it to be an excellent buy.
On the other hand, there are those who have found that this machine has a known defect that can be next to impossible to repair. While the overall good review ratings far outweigh the negative reviews, it should be noted that this machine is not perfect and does have known issues. A person who is interested in investing in a home theater system should consider the pros and cons of this device and determine for him or herself if it is a worthwhile buy.