Uber-reciever for the enthusiast

I am an enthusiast for most things electronic, in particular stereo stuff.  After migrating to blu-ray, HDTV, etc.  my tried and true Parasound separates were showing their age.  I decided to ditch the separates and give the 4308ci a try.  In short, this thing is amazing!

There are far too many specifications to list here, so please go check the Denon website for the details.

You get a lot of 'real' power - 7 channels at 140W RMS.  I use large Definitive Technology bipolar speakers which cripple lesser recievers with awkward impedence swings and big current demands.  The 4308 drives them with ease.

The reciever offers support for every audio format I've ever heard of and delivers them with some impressive accuracy.  Even old movies sound amazing.  We got the Matrix trilogy and it was like a whole new series.

One of the biggest features is the HDMI upconversion.  Ever notice that you never have enough of the 'right' inputs into your fancy HDTV?  Most have 2 HDMI inputs - although that's mostly true of newer models.  The 4308 will take everything you plug in, right down to your Sega Genesis, clean it up and send it right to your HDTV through a single HDMI cable.  I think the performance here is pretty good, although I'm lucky enough to own a set that excels in this area.  For you plasma/LCD owners, make sure you have it convert to the panel's native resolution for best results.

Another big benefit is the networking capability.  It does wi-fi and hardline networking and is very easy to setup and operate.  I use a network attached storage device to hold my music/pictures, and the reciever allows me to access my entire library.  The interface is a little funky, but you can quickly master it.  It has USB support and offers an iPod dock as an accessory.  Hardcore geeks can control it through your home network which is VERY cool.  Check out Command3808 which is a free software program offering more than the built-in web interface.  Upgradeable firmware protects against obsolescence.

The Denon offers the Audyssey EQ function that sets up all the surround stuff for you.  If you are buying this system, you are either an enthusiast or somebody who has somebody set this kind of stuff up for you.  Either way, the Audyssey did a great job in my awkwardly shaped room and has really brought out the best in my speakers.

The menu system is well thought out and easy to use, once you understand it.  I struggled quite a bit for the first hour or so.  It's intuitive enough for most people and everything is very well labeled.

Unfortunately, tragedy struck after about 4 movies and my unit went dead.  Denon's technical support is legendary, but I didn't even have to go there - my dealer, ListenUp of Denver (who I can recommend without hesitation) - sent out a new one and a return shipping label for the dead one!  The replacement unit works like a champ.  I considered buying through a gray market dealer, but elected not to.  Most dealers have it at MSRP, but search around and you can find some real deals.

Who is this product suited for?  The 3808 offers nearly all of the functionality for a lot less money. I think you would need some hefty speakers, to notice the difference in power and there are workarounds which are pretty cost effective to address the loss of wi-fi.  It is undoubtedly cool - but at a difficult to justify price point for most people.

Some may lament the lack of THX certification.  Personally, I think Denon didn't bother with it.  I guarantee that this would easily make that grade, especially considering some of the other products that have.

This is an impressive product with a price point to match.  The 3808 is a capable performer and a better value.  If you need the power and hunger for some extra bells and whistles, this is the one for you.