Denon AVR-X3800H vs Denon AVR-X4800H: Comparison Review

When building a home theater system, choosing the right AV receiver is crucial to achieving the best audio and video quality. Denon offers two exceptional models—the AVR-X3800H and AVR-X4800H—designed to deliver top-tier sound and visuals. Both receivers support 8K video, advanced surround sound technologies like Dolby Atmos, and multiple HDMI ports for seamless connectivity. However, they cater to slightly different needs. In this comparison, we’ll break down the key features, pros, and cons of the AVR-X3800H and AVR-X4800H to help you decide which one fits your setup and entertainment goals.

Denon AVR-X3800H 9.4-Ch Receiver

The Denon AVR-X3800H 9.4-Channel Receiver delivers an impressive, immersive audio and video experience, making it a standout choice for anyone looking to upgrade their home theater system. With support for 8K video pass-through and the latest video formats, including HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and Dynamic HDR, this receiver ensures that your visuals are crisp and vibrant. The integration of cutting-edge surround sound technologies like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, and IMAX Enhanced guarantees an exceptional 3D audio experience, whether you’re watching movies or gaming. The receiver also boasts a robust power output of 105 watts per channel, providing ample amplification to drive even the most demanding speakers, allowing you to create a truly cinematic experience at home. Additionally, the AVR-X3800H offers seamless connectivity options, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and HEOS multi-room streaming, making it easy to extend your music throughout the home.

While the Denon AVR-X3800H excels in audio and video quality, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The setup process is streamlined thanks to the intuitive on-screen HD GUI and Audyssey Room Correction Suite, but the vast array of features and settings may overwhelm beginners. Additionally, while it offers 9 HDMI 2.1 ports, the number of physical inputs may still feel limiting for those with multiple devices. The receiver’s size and weight might be too large for smaller spaces, and the cost could be a concern for budget-conscious buyers. However, for those who prioritize top-tier sound and visuals, the Denon AVR-X3800H is undoubtedly a powerful and versatile option for a high-quality home theater setup.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

• 8K/60Hz pass-through and support for HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and Dynamic HDR
• Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, IMAX Enhanced, and Auro 3D for immersive surround sound
• 9 HDMI 2.1 ports with 4K/120 and 8K support
• Built-in Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and HEOS multi-room streaming
• Easy setup with Audyssey Room Correction Suite and on-screen HD GUI

Pros:

• Exceptional 8K video quality and support for advanced formats
• Immersive 3D audio with support for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and more
• Flexible connectivity options for various devices
• High power output suitable for demanding speakers
• Multi-room audio streaming for a whole-home sound experience

Cons:

• Complex setup process may overwhelm beginners
• Limited number of physical inputs for multiple devices

Denon AVR-X4800H 9.4-Ch Receiver

The Denon AVR-X4800H 9.4-Channel Receiver offers an outstanding combination of top-tier video and audio performance, making it a standout choice for home theater enthusiasts with larger spaces. With 8K pass-through and support for advanced video formats like Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dynamic HDR, this receiver ensures your visuals are sharp, vibrant, and future-proof. The audio experience is equally impressive, featuring Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, and IMAX Enhanced, which deliver immersive surround sound and create an incredibly lifelike listening experience. Its 125W per channel power output and 11.4 channel processing provide the flexibility to drive high-end speakers and scale to larger home theater setups. Additionally, the receiver’s multi-room capabilities, powered by HEOS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, allow you to extend your music and entertainment throughout your home, ensuring seamless connectivity with streaming services like Pandora, TIDAL, and Spotify.

Despite its impressive features, there are a few factors to consider before purchasing. The receiver is designed for larger spaces, which may make it less ideal for smaller rooms due to its size and power requirements. The setup process is made easier with the intuitive on-screen GUI and Audyssey Room Correction Suite, but for users unfamiliar with advanced home theater systems, it might still take some time to optimize the settings. While the unit offers 10 HDMI ports, including 8K and 4K/120 support, the number of inputs could feel limiting for those with a wide range of devices. Additionally, the price tag may be a concern for budget-conscious buyers, but for those seeking a premium, immersive home theater experience, the Denon AVR-X4800H delivers excellent value.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

• 8K/60Hz pass-through with support for Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dynamic HDR
• Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, IMAX Enhanced, and Auro 3D for 3D audio
• 10 HDMI ports (7 In/3 Out) with 8K and 4K/120 support
• Multi-room streaming via HEOS, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi
• 125W per channel amplification and 11.4 channel processing

Pros:

• Exceptional video and audio quality with 8K and advanced HDR support
• Immersive surround sound with Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, and IMAX Enhanced
• Flexible connectivity options for various devices
• Powerful output suitable for larger spaces and demanding setups
• Multi-room audio streaming capabilities for whole-home audio

Cons:

• Large size may be unsuitable for smaller spaces
• Complex setup might overwhelm users without prior experience

Denon AVR-X3800H vs Denon AVR-X4800H: Comprehensive Comparison

Below, we’ll break down the key differences and similarities between the Denon AVR-X3800H and AVR-X4800H to help you decide which one is right for you.

1. Power and Channel Configuration

AVR-X3800H:
The Denon AVR-X3800H is a 9.4-channel receiver with 105 watts per channel. This configuration provides powerful amplification suitable for medium to large home theater setups. It offers flexibility for both smaller and mid-sized rooms, driving speakers with ease while still delivering a fantastic surround sound experience.

AVR-X4800H:
The Denon AVR-X4800H, on the other hand, is a 9.4-channel receiver that provides 125 watts per channel. This increased power output allows it to handle larger, more demanding setups with even greater efficiency. The additional 20 watts per channel ensures that the AVR-X4800H is better suited for bigger spaces or for users who want to push their system to its full potential.

Model	Channels	Power Output per Channel
Denon AVR-X3800H	9.4	105W
Denon AVR-X4800H	9.4	125W

2. Video Capabilities

AVR-X3800H:
The AVR-X3800H offers 8K/60Hz pass-through and supports high-quality video formats such as Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG, and Dynamic HDR. This ensures vibrant, high-definition visuals with deep contrast and rich colors, providing a fantastic viewing experience for movies and TV shows. With 8K support, it’s prepared for the future of home entertainment, making it a solid choice for users planning to invest in an 8K TV.

AVR-X4800H:
The AVR-X4800H also supports 8K/60Hz pass-through and is compatible with the same advanced video formats as the X3800H. However, it stands out with a few added features, such as a greater emphasis on dynamic video performance and gaming. With HDMI 2.1 ports supporting 4K/120Hz and advanced gaming features like VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), the X4800H provides a smoother, more responsive gaming experience alongside its superior video quality.

3. Audio Features

AVR-X3800H:
The AVR-X3800H comes equipped with cutting-edge audio technologies like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, IMAX Enhanced, and Auro 3D for an incredibly immersive sound experience. It also includes Dolby Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual:X, which allow users to simulate overhead sounds even without height speakers, perfect for setups with limited space or those looking for simplicity.

AVR-X4800H:
The AVR-X4800H offers the same audio formats as the X3800H but takes it a step further with additional processing capabilities. With the same Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, and Auro 3D technologies, the X4800H adds even more versatility for larger systems. It also offers better bass management with 4 independent subwoofer RCA and XLR outputs, ideal for users who prefer deeper, more controlled bass.

4. Connectivity

AVR-X3800H:
The AVR-X3800H includes 9 HDMI ports (6 In/3 Out), all supporting HDMI 2.1 for 4K/120Hz and 8K pass-through. It also has built-in Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and HEOS multi-room streaming, allowing users to extend their audio throughout the home. This is perfect for users looking to stream music from services like Spotify, TIDAL, or Pandora directly to multiple rooms.

AVR-X4800H:
The AVR-X4800H ups the ante with 10 HDMI ports (7 In/3 Out), making it more suitable for users with multiple devices. It also supports 8K and 4K/120Hz on all HDMI ports, providing superior video and gaming compatibility. Like the X3800H, it also features Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and HEOS multi-room audio, but its additional connectivity options make it even more flexible for complex setups.

Model	HDMI Inputs/Outputs	8K & 4K/120Hz Support	Multi-Room Streaming
Denon AVR-X3800H	6 In/3 Out	Yes	Yes
Denon AVR-X4800H	7 In/3 Out	Yes	Yes

5. Setup and Calibration

AVR-X3800H:
The AVR-X3800H features the intuitive HD GUI setup assistant, which helps guide users through a seamless setup process. Additionally, it includes the Audyssey Room Correction Suite, which ensures optimal speaker calibration for any room configuration.

AVR-X4800H:
The AVR-X4800H shares the same HD GUI setup assistant and Audyssey Room Correction Suite, making it equally user-friendly. However, its added power and flexibility might require more fine-tuning during setup, especially for larger systems or users aiming to achieve the best possible sound.

6. Price and Value

AVR-X3800H:
The AVR-X3800H offers great value for those looking for a powerful and feature-rich receiver at a slightly more affordable price point than the X4800H. It is a great option for users who need a strong performance in a mid-sized room without needing to push the receiver to its limits.

AVR-X4800H:
The AVR-X4800H, while more expensive, justifies its price with increased power, more HDMI ports, and additional features that cater to larger systems and users who demand the best audio and video experience. Its ability to handle complex setups and deliver superior performance makes it a top choice for serious home theater enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Both the Denon AVR-X3800H and AVR-X4800H are top-of-the-line receivers that deliver excellent video and audio quality, but they cater to slightly different needs. If you have a larger room or want the best possible performance, the AVR-X4800H is the clear choice with its increased power output, extra HDMI ports, and superior bass management. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option that still offers 8K pass-through, immersive sound, and multi-room streaming, the AVR-X3800H is an excellent choice that provides solid value for your home theater setup.

FAQ About Denon AVR-X3800H vs Denon AVR-X4800H

What are the key differences between the Denon AVR-X3800H and AVR-X4800H?

The main differences between the Denon AVR-X3800H and AVR-X4800H are the power output, number of HDMI ports, and additional features for large setups. The AVR-X4800H provides 125W per channel compared to the AVR-X3800H’s 105W, making it more suitable for larger spaces and more demanding speakers. Additionally, the AVR-X4800H offers more HDMI ports (10 versus 9), which is beneficial for users with multiple devices. The X4800H also supports additional gaming features like VRR and ALLM for a smoother gaming experience, making it a better choice for avid gamers.

Which receiver is better for gaming, the AVR-X3800H or AVR-X4800H?

While both receivers offer 8K and 4K/120Hz pass-through, the Denon AVR-X4800H is better suited for gaming due to its support for VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode). These features help reduce input lag and provide smoother gameplay, making it an ideal choice for users who want the best possible gaming experience in addition to exceptional video and audio quality.

Can both receivers handle 8K video?

Yes, both the Denon AVR-X3800H and AVR-X4800H support 8K/60Hz pass-through, ensuring high-quality video output to compatible 8K TVs. Additionally, they both support the latest video formats like Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dynamic HDR, ensuring vibrant, clear visuals. The AVR-X4800H has the added benefit of supporting 4K/120Hz, which is particularly useful for future-proofing your setup for next-gen gaming consoles.

Which receiver is better for larger rooms?

For larger rooms, the Denon AVR-X4800H is the better choice due to its higher power output of 125W per channel. This increased wattage allows it to drive more powerful speakers and fill larger spaces with immersive sound. Additionally, the X4800H’s ability to handle more complex setups, including 11.4 channel processing, makes it more suitable for large-scale home theater systems.

Are the setup processes the same for both receivers?

Yes, both the AVR-X3800H and AVR-X4800H come with an intuitive HD GUI setup assistant and the Audyssey Room Correction Suite, which makes the setup process easy and user-friendly. However, the increased features of the X4800H might require a bit more fine-tuning during setup, especially for users with more complex systems or larger room configurations.

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