Denon AVR-X4800H AV Receiver Review
Table of contents
It can’t be disputed that Denon has earned an honorable reputation in the world of home entertainment, and the Denon AVR-X4800H represents the optimal choice for a top-of-the-line home theater receiver, providing an abundance of features that cater to the needs of both audio and video enthusiasts.
Specifications
The Denon X4800H sits right above the X3800H and below the X6700H, although this model has been on the market since 2020 and lacks some of the key features the X4800H brings. With 9.4 channels of built in amplification delivering up to 125 watts per channel (at 8 ohms, 20-20 kHz, THD .05% at 2 channel driven) and 11.4 channels of processing, the X4800H can power most audio setups. In addition to its power output, this receiver also features audio formats such as Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced, Auro-3D, 360 Reality Audio, and MPEG-H Audio, as well as standard virtual and up-mixing technologies such as Dolby Surround, DTS Neural:X, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, and DTS Virtual:X.
While you may not have four subwoofers at the time of buying the X4800H, it’s nice to know that if you feel the need to add more bass later on, this AV receiver can accommodate that requirement. A new selective pre-amplifier mode is available to users, allowing you to assign each speaker pair to "Pre-out only" for use with an external power amplifier. This option was previously only available for all or none of the outputs. For example, if you want to upgrade the amplification of the front pair, you can now do so.
The AVR-X4800H offers a variety of wireless connectivity options via HEOS Built-in, including support for Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2, Denon's HEOS multi-room technology, Alexa, Google Voice Assistant, Apple HomePod, and DSD, among other options.
The Denon AVR-X4800H has seven HDMI inputs and three HDMI outputs, two of which support 8K@60Hz or 4K@120Hz video pass-through and are rated at 40gbps. The third HDMI output, labeled as Zone 2, is limited to 4K@60Hz. These ports support key HDR formats such as HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and Hybrid Log Gamma. Furthermore, they include gamer-friendly technologies such as VRR (Variable Refresh Rate, QFT (Quick Frame Transport), ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), and FRL (Frame Rate Link).
The AV receiver also supports 8K upscaling on all of its HDMI inputs. One of the outputs supports eARC, which enables the AVR to accept advanced audio formats over the same HDMI connection that it uses to transfer video signals to the display. The back of the unit has eleven speaker terminals in a straight line for easier cable management. However, if you want to use all eleven channels, you will need an external amplifier for the last two.
There are also several other ports and inputs available, including one ethernet port, two coaxial and two optical digital audio inputs, 11.4 channels pre-outs, five analog audio inputs (with one dedicated for phono), four subwoofer outputs, a remote control input and output, an RS-232C port for control, three 12 volt trigger outputs, two composite video inputs, one component video input, FM/AM antenna inputs, and WiFi/Bluetooth connectors.
The only noticeable differences on the outside of the unit, when compared to the X3800H, are a slightly higher power output, legacy analog video inputs, and an additional HDMI port. In comparison to the X4700H, there are no obvious external changes except for the inclusion of HDMI 2.1 ports, but there are several modifications under the hood.
The receiver comes equipped with high-current amplifiers on every channel that is capable of driving low impedance, as well as a Monolithic Amplifier layout, which sets it apart from its predecessor, the X4700H. Unlike last year's model, which used two boards for four and five channels respectively, the X4800H utilizes a separate power amplifier board for each channel, resulting in decreased crosstalk and vibration. The Denon X4800H uses the same DSP as the X3800H, which includes a single 2-core SHARC DSP along with Texas Instruments' 32-bit/192kHz digital-to-analog converters.
One of the significant enhancements offered by the X4800H over the X3800H is the implementation of AL32 processing, which enables 32-bit extension and 192 kHz sampling on the Denon receiver's AL32 Processor. This technique substantially reduces the noise floor associated with D/A conversion, resulting in precise reproduction of low-level signals. AL32 processing is a multi-channel process, meaning it is applied to each input and output.
The Denon X4800H also comes equipped with a feature called the Clock Jitter Reducer. When converting digital signals to analog, inaccuracies in the reference clock's timing, known as jitter, can cause waveform distortions. The Clock Jitter Reducer detects any discrepancies in timing between the input and output signals and reduces the amount of jitter present to improve waveform accuracy.
The X4800H maintains its high-end status by swapping out the plastic front panel of the X3800H for a metal one, while most of the controls remain the same and are hidden behind a flip-up panel, similar to the previous model. The X4800H has a 2 line FL display that offers more information compared to the 1 line FL display on the X3800H. It also has the same dimensions as the previous model, measuring 17.1 inches x 15.3 inches x 9.3 inches, and weighs 29.1 lbs.
The remote for this year's model is very similar to its siblings with the only difference being the addition of Zone and input buttons. It is simple yet well-crafted, and it is easy to use with all the necessary buttons placed in a convenient location. Although the buttons do not have backlights, they are phosphorescent, making them visible in the dark. The HEOS and Bluetooth functions, along with all the input buttons, are situated at the top. The middle section contains the navigation buttons, volume controls, and channel controls. At the bottom, you will find the sound mode buttons, quick selection buttons, and playback controls.
Setup
The Denon AVR-X4800H installation is simple and straightforward. After connecting all of the devices, simply connect the included calibration microphone to the front panel microphone input and utilize the Audyssey MultEQ XT32 calibration and optimization tool. This function displays step-by-step instructions on the connected monitor, and the full process of calibrating and optimizing the sound for the room takes about 15 minutes. Following that, you have the ability to further tweak the sound to your taste.
Audyssey calibration can be performed using the on-screen wizard or the Audyssey MultEQ Editor app, which is available for both Android and iOS devices. Those who want to adjust their system further using their mobile devices will find the MultEQ Editor app particularly useful. The Audyssey app is available for both iOS and Android devices and can be purchased from the app store for $20. On the other hand, the Audyssey MultEQ-X PC software is free for Windows users, but a license is required for each AVR that is calibrated. Each license costs $199.
The AVR-X4800H now offers support for Dirac Live, providing users with the choice to either use the bundled Audyssey system or purchase one of two Dirac Live license options for a more customizable experience. The Limited Bandwidth option, available for $259, allows for impulse response correction, editable target curves, multiple playback modes, and response correction for a limited frequency range between 20Hz and 500Hz. The Full Bandwidth room correction option, available for $349, provides all the features of the Limited Bandwidth option, as well as response correction for the full frequency range between 20Hz and 20kHz. It's important to note that the microphone included with the receiver is not compatible with the Dirac Live option. In my experience, I used a miniDSP UMIK-1 which worked perfectly.
The newly released Dirac Live is now available on Denon AVR-X3800H as well as the AVR-X4800H and the AVR-A1H. I’ve provided step-by-step instructions on the calibration process below.
To begin, ensure that your receiver has the most recent firmware installed. Next, navigate to the Speakers settings and select the Dirac Live setup option. This will display a screen with a QR code, directing you to the Dirac website where you can select the appropriate model and purchase the license.
After obtaining the purchased license from the “My Downloads” tab, you can launch the program on your computer. It will look for a suitable receiver and display it on the screen. You can then choose the desired microphone and select the compatible device.
You can proceed to the next tab, which is dedicated to volume calibration. In this section, you will find various knobs and sliders. The goal is to achieve an optimal volume level on the speakers to ensure that the microphone can capture the sound accurately. It is recommended to aim for a speaker level that is situated in the middle range. Once you have set the speaker levels, you can proceed to the "Select Arrangement" tab.
The upper section of the screen presents you with a few options to choose from. If you’re looking to achieve the best possible sound quality only for a specific seating area, you can opt for either the Tightly Focused Imaging or Focused Imaging settings. If you prefer a wider listening space, you can select the Wide Imaging option. It’s important to note that the number of measurements required may differ based on the setting you choose.
For instance, Focused Imaging requires 13 measurement positions, whereas Tightly Focused Imaging requires only 9 measurement positions. In the "Speaker Presets" section, you can save up to three distinct Dirac Live calibrations, meaning you can save a calibration to use when you’re watching a movie alone and another calibration for when you're watching with your entire family.
After selecting your preferred option, you can move on to the measurement section. Typically, I begin by measuring the main listening position. You can follow the measurement guidelines presented on the screen by selecting a position and clicking the "Select Measurement Position" button.
Once measurements are completed, the next step is Filter Design. In this section, you can review all the speaker graphs and examine the target curve generated by Dirac Live and make any needed adjustments to suit your preferences. Once all adjustments have been made, you can move on to the next tab, which is Filter Export.
When you enter the Filter Export section, you can select an empty preset slot and assign it a name before clicking the "Export Filter" button. At this stage, the system exports the filter to the receiver. Once you receive the notification that the file transfer has been completed, you’re good to go.
The Denon has a useful feature that enables users to set a speaker preset for both Audyssey and Dirac. For instance, you can assign the Dynamic EQ setting from Audyssey to speaker preset 1 and the Dirac Live calibration to speaker preset 2.
Performance
The performance of the AVR-X4800H while playing two-channel music is impressive, and I was particularly drawn to Nora Jones' track "Don't Know Why." The placement of Nora's vocals within the soundstage perfectly conveyed the emotional depth of her voice and the bass was well-balanced, adding to the authenticity of the live performance. I had to double check that I was listening in stereo mode and not surround mode because the AVR-X4800 produces such an expansive sound and completely envelops the listening position.
Switching to multi-channel sources, the first show I tried was Season 4 of “Stranger Things” on Apple TV. The Atmos soundtrack is reproduced with impressive dynamics and never sounds compressed, even while streaming. The dialogue is clear and the soundstage is expansive and wide with accurate localization of effects. One scene that particularly stands out is at the end of Episode 7 when Eleven confronts One. The lights flickering pulls you into the scene and actually feels like there are lights above you, creating a truly immersive experience.
When I want to showcase the capabilities of my system, I often watch the end scene of "1917" where Lance Corporal Schofield rushes through the battlefield to deliver a message. With my 7.2.4 configuration featuring Klipsch Reference Premier II speakers, this scene does not disappoint. Despite the intense action sequences, the dialogue remained clear and intelligible. The musical score from Thomas Newman is quite powerful and the Denon AVR-X4800H has no issues reproducing it accurately. The Denon effectively creates a surround sound experience, placing the listener right on the battlefield with the sound of bullets coming from all directions and dirt from the explosions flying overhead.
Conclusion
The Denon AVR-X4800H is a comprehensive AV receiver that excels in all areas. Its setup process is relatively straightforward, allowing you to begin enjoying it quickly. Thanks to Dirac Live, you can enjoy a balanced and clear sound from any seating position. The receiver's latest HDMI hardware ensures it will remain relevant and useful for many years to come.
I had a great experience using the Denon AVR-X4800H. It is an outstanding AV receiver that can handle a wide range of audio and video content and offers unique features that distinguish it from the AVR-X3800H model.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Dirac Integration | Carries almost identical design to previous years |
Refined graphical user interface and additional control alternatives | Priced higher than its predecessor |
Future-proof connectivity |
FAQ
What is the difference between Denon's AVR-X and AVR-S series receivers?
Denon's AVR-X series receivers are their premium line of AV receivers, offering higher-end features and performance than the AVR-S series. The X series generally has more advanced audio processing, better build quality, and higher power output. The AVR-S series, on the other hand, is geared more toward budget-conscious buyers and offers a solid set of features for the price. They still offer good audio and video quality but with fewer bells and whistles than the X series.
What is the difference between Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
Dolby Atmos is an object-based surround sound technology that allows sound mixers to place sounds anywhere in a three-dimensional space, including above the listener. This creates a more precise and lifelike experience, with a greater sense of immersion.
DTS:X is also an object-based surround sound technology that provides similar three-dimensional sound capabilities. It is designed to work with a variety of speaker configurations, including traditional 5.1 and 7.1 setups, as well as newer sound systems with additional height or overhead speakers.
Both technologies offer impressive sound experiences and are supported by many home theater receivers and speaker systems. Ultimately, the choice between Dolby Atmos and DTS:X may come down to personal preference or the specific equipment and content available to you.
What is Dirac Live and how does it work with my Denon?
Dirac Live is a room correction technology that aims to improve the audio quality of your Denon receiver by optimizing the sound for your specific listening environment. It works by analyzing the sound in your room using a specialized microphone, and then making precise adjustments to the audio output to compensate for any deficiencies in your listening space. The result is improved audio quality that is more accurate and lifelike, with better soundstage, imaging, and tonal balance.
