Denon AVR-1909 7.1-Channel Multizone Home Theater Receiver

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Product Details

• Item Weight: 36 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 31 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Shipping: Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S.
• ASIN: B001BKND5W
• Item model number: AVR1909
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars See all reviews (28 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #13,457 in Electronics (See Bestsellers in Electronics)

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  Electronics > Home Audio & Theater > Receivers & Amplifiers > Component Receivers

• Date first available at Amazon.com: July 30, 2008

Product Description

From the Manufacturer

The Denon AVR-1909 7.1 Channel A/V Receiver: Ready for the Future

The Denon AVR-1909 is a 7.1 channel A/V receiver released as part of the new 2008/09 lineup of Denon receivers. It is in the upper-middle of the lineup, and is the least expensive receiver in the lineup to feature 1080p upscaling and high-definition audio decoding. This price point is highly competitive and very popular among consumers

Includes multi-room, multi-source audio capability (Click the image to view larger)

because of the balance of features and pricing with other AV receiver models all featuring similar specification at a similar price. Like all models in this Denon AV lineup, it features Audyssey Dynamic Volume and Dynamic EQ audio processing, HDMI 1.3a inputs, and a new OSD.

Top Technology for a Reasonable Price

The Denon AVR-1909 is equipped with the latest high resolution surround sound format decoding capabilities, including Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, and DTS-HD Master Audio - the latest high resolution audio formats found on many Blu-ray high definition discs. The powerful seven channel amplifier section can be configured for 7.1 channel surround sound, as well as being able to drive a 5.1 channel system in the main room along with powered stereo speaker outputs

No more sound jumps and cracks with Audyssey Equalized

for second zone audio. The video section features extensive video source switching and up-conversion capability, and is equipped with three latest specification v1.3a HDMI inputs and one HDMI output, with up to 1080p resolution. In addition, the AVR-1909 features Faroudja DCDi video processing and up-conversion, breathing new life into standard definition sources, along with three HD component video inputs and one HD component video output. Setup is a snap, thanks to the icon-based on screen display.

True Quality Audio Processing

The built-in Audyssey MultEQ acoustic correction technology and optimization system custom-tailors the sound for optimum tonal balance throughout the listening space. To eliminate irritating swings in volume between TV shows and commercials, the AVR-1909 is one of the first to offer Audyssey Dynamic Volume automatic volume-leveling system, as well as Audyssey Dynamic EQ to ensure rich bass and smooth tonal balance, even at low volume levels. With the Denon AVR-1909 you get loads of connectivity for system building, including HDTV-compatible component video switching. A front-panel audio/video input allows quick and easy connection of camcorders and game systems. Analogue video to HDMI scaling to 1080p, 1080p video pass through Multi-Zone 2 source/2 Zone capability.

Options to Expand

Expansion options abound, with media network connectivity (via optional ASD-3N/3W), along with iPod compatibility (via optional ASD-11R/3N/3W), and the AVR-1909 features Denon’s exclusive Compressed Audio Restorer that automatically improves the fidelity of your favorite portable audio tracks.

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Technical Specifications

• Power Output: 90 watts/channel
• Dolby Pro Logic IIx – with Cinema, Music, Game Modes: Included
• Dolby Digital Surround EX Decoding: Included
• dts ES Discrete 6.1 Decoding: Included
• dts ES Matrix 6.1 Decoding: Included
• dts Neo:6 Stereo-to-Surround Cinema and Music Modes: Included
• dts 96/24 5.1 for DVD-Video Processing: Included
• Pure Direct/Direct/Stereo Modes on Digital/Analog inputs: Included
• Wide Screen 7.1 Mode: Yes
• Assignable Digital Inputs: 4
• Digital Inputs: Coaxial: 2
• Digital Inputs: Optical: 2
• Digital Outputs: Optical: 1
• Analog Audio Inputs, Incl. Tuner: 8
• Analog Record Outputs: 2
• Composite Video Inputs: 3
• Composite Video Outputs: 2
• S-Video Inputs: 3
• S-Video Outputs: 2
• Weight: 25.4 lbs
• Width: 17.1 inches
• Height: 6.7 inches
• Depth: 14.9 inches

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Choose a Denon A/V Receiver that is Right for You Home Theater System

Denon offers several models of A/V receiver systems, from the entry-level AVR-1609 to the advanced AVR-2809CI model. Each A/V receiver has different qualities so you can choose the one that is right for your home and the sound you want. Here's a quick breakdown of the Denon A/V receiver systems.

The AVR-1609 features a powerful 7.1 channel amplifier section to drive a 7.1 multi-channel speaker system, along with the latest extended surround decoders, including Dolby Digital Surround EX, Dolby Pro Logic IIx and DTS ES. Equipped with the latest HDMI v1.3a digital video signal pass-through technology, the AVR-1609 provides 2 HDMI inputs and 1 HDMI output, allowing a single HDMI cable run to your HDTV display. The advanced Audyssey MultEQ in-room acoustic measurement and optimization system automatically analyzes the listening room’s acoustics at up to six different measurement locations, and develops an appropriate acoustic correction algorithm that provides smooth, natural tonal balance throughout the listening space.

The AVR-1709 features a powerful 7.1 channel amplifier section that can be easily configured for a 7.1 channel surround sound loudspeaker system, or to drive a 5.1 channel surround sound system in the main room, while at the same time able to drive a pair of stereo speakers in another room. Featuring tremendous video signal handling flexibility, the AVR-1709 features three latest specification v1.3a HDMI digital video inputs and one HDMI output that handles HD signals up to the highest 1080p resolution. As well, the AVR-1709 features on-board video up-conversion, along with three HD component video inputs for additional video signal handling flexibility. For optimum surround sound quality, the Audyssey MultEQ in-room acoustic measurement and optimization system measures the loudspeaker’s overall response (at up to six different measurement points) and tailors the audio signal for the smoothest, most natural-sounding tonal balance throughout the listening space.

The AVR-1909 is equipped with the latest high resolution surround sound format decoding capabilities, including Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, and DTS-HD Master Audio. The powerful seven channel amplifier section can be configured for 7.1 channel surround sound. The video section is equipped with three latest specification v1.3a HDMI inputs and one HDMI output, with up to 1080p resolution. In addition, the AVR-1909 features Faroudja DCDi video processing and up-conversion, breathing new life into standard definition sources. Setup is a snap, thanks to the icon-based on screen display. To eliminate irritating swings in volume between TV shows and commercials, the AVR-1909 is one of the first to offer Audyssey Dynamic Volume automatic volume-leveling system, as well as Audyssey Dynamic EQ to ensure rich bass and smooth tonal balance, even at low volume levels.

The AVR2309CI is a 7.1 A/V receiver with video upscaling to 1080p of analog sources using a Faroudja DCDi chipset, decodes high-definition audio sources (Dolby TrueHD, dts HD-MA), and features 4 x HDMI 1.3a inputs with Deep Color support. A notable upgrade to the previous-generation is the addition of Audyssey's Dynamic Volume processing along with the already present Dynamic EQ option. Dynamic Volume is a feature that levels the volume to a more-or-less constant level to avoid sudden changes in volume. This feature works together with the Dynamic EQ that dynamically adjusts the EQ settings to optimize the dynamic range.

The AVR2809CI has been fortified with the latest A/V upgrades positioning itself to become one of the most popular audio video receivers in the industry, continuing on in its predecessor's footsteps. The AVR-2809CI has HDMI v1.3a which brings with it the new surround formats for HD decoding allowing for ultimate surround performance for the best in home theater experience. Updated Audyssey audio processing has been added to provide improved auto calibration results for smooth sound reproduction. The well acclaimed Faroudja FLi2310 has been employed to allow for video scaling to 1080p resolution. Serial IR ports along with the RS-232C system control port provides ease of integration for complex home audio installations with 3rd party controllers.

Product Description
Ready for the future, the AVR-1909 is equipped with the latest high resolution surround sound format decoding capabilities, including Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, and DTS-HD Master Audio – the latest high resolution audio formats found on many Blu-ray high definition discs. The powerful seven channel amplifier section can be configured for 7.1 channel surround sound, as well as being able to drive a 5.1 channel system in the main room along with powered stereo speaker outputs for second zone audio. The video section features extensive video source switching and up-conversion capability, and is equipped with three latest specification v1.3a HDMI inputs and one HDMI output, with up to 1080p resolution. In addition, the AVR-1909 features Faroudja DCDi video processing and up-conversion, breathing new life into standard definition sources, along with three HD component video inputs and one HD component video output. Setup is a snap, thanks to the icon-based on screen display, and the Audyssey MultEQ acoustic correction and optimization system custom-tailors the sound for optimum tonal balance throughout the listening space. To eliminate irritating swings in volume between TV shows and commercials, the AVR-1909 is one of the first to offer Audyssey Dynamic Volume automatic volume-leveling system, as well as Audyssey Dynamic EQ to ensure rich bass and smooth tonal balance, even at low volume levels.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

152 of 154 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars THE best 2008 receiver under $700, August 27, 2008

By	Pierrick Verilhac (Loveland, CO USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

I spent several months researching my new receiver for my home theater. I spent countless hours hanging out on the avsforum, read everything I could about receivers. I was looking for a receiver that would have the following features:

- at least 2 HDMI inputs
- great sound quality for music as well as movies
- HD audio codecs (Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD MA) support
- would cost $650 MSRP or less

The choice was simple:
- Onkyo 606 or 705
- Yamaha 663
- Sony 820 or 920
- HK 254
- Pioneer 1018
- Denon 1909 or 988

I didn't even try the Onkyos, because I was afraid of the overheating problems and the humming noise reported on many units. Plus, they are downright ugly. The Yamaha had only 2 HDMI, and did not pass BTB/WTW, the Sonys are notorious for having the worst sound quality (unless you tap into the really high end models) across the board, so I didn't consider those either.

I was then left with the HK, Pioneer and Denon receivers.

I first bought the HK 254. All the users on avsforum swore by the HK sound. Well, they were right. The sound is nothing short of outstanding. The GUI is light-years ahead of the competition too. And finally, it is by far the slickest looking receiver of all. Now, on to the negative. HK is notorious for releasing products that haven't been thoroughly tested, and that don't work properly until the firmware update is released, and even at that point, it doesn't always work right. Well, they got that right too...I don't want to go into the details of all these bugs, but they completely kill all the enjoyment you could get from the unit (loud and pulsating fan noise, complete sound dropouts, etc.). I finally returned the unit, disgusted with HK's quality control.

I then tried the Pioneer 1018, the Denon 1909 and the Denon 988. All 3 of them performed flawlessly, without a single hickup.

The Pioneer worked great but sounded a little weak, lacked punch and attack compared to the HK. It also had a very annoying bright blue LED that you can't turn off, and the worst remote I've ever seen.

The Denon 1909 and 988 are similar in many ways. The 988 is from last year, but cost $1200 at the time, and can now be found around $600. Its sound quality, for music in direct mode, was the closest to the HK sound, in other words, it sounded great. However, it only has 2 HDMI inputs, and lacks the new Audyssey features.

The 1909 was VERY close to the 988 in terms of musical SQ in direct mode (read: it sounds awesome, and brought a big smile to my face the first time I played music on it). But where it really shines is with movies. The 1909 was the only receiver I tried that could maintain the surround field perfect at any time and any given volume. Thanks to the Audyssey setup, my speakers were configured spot-on (none of the other receivers, besides the 988, offered such a perfect calibration). And thanks to the Audyssey Dynamic EQ and Dynamic Volume, the surround field is constantly adjusted to provide you with the most convincing immersion in sound, at all volumes, and always optimized for your room acoustics.

What it translates to in terms of movie watching, is that you are constantly enveloped with the surround sound, and it is all perfectly balanced. The bass is also perfectly calibrated so that you subwoofer gives you the perfect rumble when it's needed, without overpowering the sound either. In short, it sounds better than at the movie theater.

I ended up keeping the 1909, because of its great sound quality and of its superb handling of surround field, thanks to the Audyssey Dynamic EQ and Volume. It might not be a $1,200 receiver like the 988, but it is newer and for once, those bells and whistles really make a considerable difference.

27 of 28 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful sound!, September 7, 2008

By	bbfla (Florida, USA) - See all my reviews

I'll echo what the other reviewers have said -- the sound quality of the Denon 1909 is fantastic!

After using a Harman/Kardan 245 for the last year, and being frustrated by its inability to handle audio over HDMI and therefore play the latest lossless audio codecs, I decided to look for a replacement.

I had narrowed my choices to the Harman 254 or 354, the Onkyo 606 or 706, and the Denon 988 (on sale at Amazon for a fabulous price now) or 1909/789, when --iIn a stroke of good fortune -- I chanced across an open box 1909 in perfect condition at Best Buy for $200 below list. Couldn't resist temptation, even though I hadn't been able to pre-audition it.

Wow, was it worth it! My home theater system finally lives up to expectations. I don't know whether to credit Audyssey, Denon, or the lossless audio from Blu-Ray discs via my PS3, but I am blown away by the sound I've been getting, even though I have only just begun to tweak the settings.

Yes, the manual for the 1909 is ludicrously bad, and it will be frustrating to set up such a complicated receiver for someone without a little prior experience in this area, but it is actually easier and more intuitive than my H/K, I found.

Aside from the manual, my only gripe with this receiver is the onscreen menu display/user interface... it looks like something from the stone age, with jagged blocky white capital letters on a black background. (To get Denon's nice new GUI you need to upgrade to pricier models.)

But any frustration with the quirkiness of the setup menus melts away when I hear a soundtrack from a blu-ray movie in full lossless glory. In short, I am glad I didn't take a chance on the new Harmans -- while they look nice and sound great, they are still rife with technical issues and have problems playing nice with the PS3.

The Denon just works. No HDMI handshake issues, no problems whatsoever... just stunning 7.1 surround sound. Recommended.

20 of 20 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Great product - difficult to set up, due to poor Owner's Manual, September 5, 2008

By	AZ Desert Rat "movie buff" - See all my reviews

After sending back a Yamaha 663 because it would not pass thru my cable DVR, I decided to try the Denon AVR-1909. It is pricey compared to the Onkyo 606 (heat problems) and the Yamaha 663.

However, after two days of pouring over the cryptic owners manual and figuring out the 2-sided remote, it is working perfectly. The sound is fantastic. The speaker auto-set up using the Audyssey mike is great, then you can just tweak the settings for your own taste.

Be warned, and this is why the 4 stars instead of 5, when the unit arrives you must assign the inputs using the on-screen menus immediately. Otherwise it does nothing at all, it doesn't even recognize it's own built in FM receiver until you do an imput assignment. The Owner's Manual doesn't give you straight forward instructions regarding this. Everything is there but not written clearly.

This unit is worth the extra bucks and if you are patient with setting it up you won't be disappointed.