Denon AVR-X3500H: True 4K Scaling

The Denon AVR-X3500H is a 7.2-channel AV receiver that is complemented with Dolby Atmos and DTS: X. It has a built-in HEOS technology that presents to the user the full control over the music library and media devices in the house.

Design

Even short visual Denon AVR-X3500H review makes it clear that the device has a concise design with a symmetrical arrangement of controls on the front panel and a large fluorescent display. The matte black body frame is made of solid material, and despite the ribbing surface, settling dust is still visible on it. Four stable legs allow you to place the device even on a shelf, but it should be noted that the receiver weighs 23.8 pounds, which is quite a lot for such unit.

Features

It is compatible with Dolby Vision and even supports the new Hybrid Log Gamma broadcast format, adding to a picture incredible brightness and naturalness. This Denon AVR-X3500H AV receiver supports 4K/60fps HDMI scaling, has an In/Out input connector for infrared control, an RS-232C interface for interacting with external control devices that work as part of a smart home system. Also, the unit supports smartphone remote control and AirPlay. I really like that the Denon AVR-X3500H stereo receiver is equipped with ARC, which in addition to the ability to control the system volume from the standard TV remote control, allows you to enjoy additional systems, such as Dolby Digital Plus and Dolby TrueHD.

Performance

It provides access to Internet radio (40 stations are preset) and a wide range of music services such as Spotify, Deezer, Tidal, Amazon Music, and many others. You can choose the required service on the menu. The receiver works seamlessly, there are no lags or freezing while in use.

Sound Quality

It attracts the users with a decent indicator of maximum power equal to 180W in the channel. It can play a signal from some other source, whether it can be a CD, streaming audio, or HDMI. The sound itself is clean and realistic, and there are no hindrances (noise and crackling) even when listening to the music on a maximum volume. 3D sound is really good and the Dolby Surround expands the soundstage of even old movies.

Connectivity

Not only the Denon AVR-X3500H specs are amazing, as this device has the expanded digital HDMI switching: 8 inputs and 3 outputs. All the 8 HDMI inputs and 2 HDMI device outputs support HDCP 2.2 compatibility as well as the latest HDMI specifications, including 4K Ultra HD 60Hz video. There’s a phono input, which means that the device is able to work correctly with the signal received directly from the vinyl disc player.

Setup

A sound system adjusting is based on the popular Audyssey MultEQ Editor app that makes the general setup of the system, taking into account the real acoustic conditions. You should install the tuning microphone in several different positions and start the installation process that will be performed automatically. It’s also possible to switch the output signals from the connectors for available speakers by selecting the corresponding option. Simple adjustments of the tonal characteristics are available directly from the device control menu. The receiver provides the ability to save the preferred configuration and sound mode for each source, which can be accessed by simply pressing a button on the front panel or remote control.

Conclusion

This receiver produces an energetic sound and mellow tone. Moreover, it supports AirPlay, Hybrid Log Gamma broadcast, Dolby TrueHD, and is complemented with the autocalibration, so the setup process won’t be hard.