Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver: In-Depth Review

The Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver is a powerful, feature-packed home theater component designed to enhance your entertainment experience. With its robust audio capabilities, support for 8K video, and compatibility with modern streaming services, this receiver is engineered to offer outstanding performance for both audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts. In this review, we will dive deep into the AVR-X1700H, examining its key features, performance, customer feedback, and more to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your home audio setup.

Key Features and Specifications

The Denon AVR-X1700H is a 7.2 channel AV receiver that combines cutting-edge audio and video technology with ease of use. Here’s a breakdown of its most notable features:

Audio Features:

• 7-Channel Amplifier: Provides 80 watts per channel (8 ohms, 20 Hz – 20 kHz, THD: 0.08%, 2 channels driven), delivering balanced, tonal sound.
• Dolby Atmos and DTS:X: Full 3D audio support for an immersive surround sound experience.
• DTS Virtual:X: Allows for virtual height effects even without dedicated height channels.
• Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization: Creates virtual height effects without needing height speakers.

Video Features:

• 8K HDMI Video: The AVR-X1700H supports three 8K inputs and one 8K output, capable of 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through, as well as 8K upscaling on all HDMI inputs.
• HDR Support: Supports HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG for vibrant, high-contrast visuals.
• eARC Support: Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) enables lossless and object-based audio transmission from your TV to the receiver.

Connectivity:

• 6 HDMI Inputs / 1 HDMI Output: Includes one HDMI eARC output for the highest quality audio and video.
• Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB: Extensive connectivity options to suit various media devices.
• Voice Control: Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri for voice command functionality.

Additional Features:

• HEOS Built-in Streaming: Supports multi-room audio with services like Spotify, Amazon Music, and TIDAL.
• Audyssey Room Correction: Automatic room calibration for precise sound optimization.
• Quick Start Guide: Easy-to-follow setup guide for hassle-free installation.

Performance

The Denon AVR-X1700H is designed to deliver exceptional sound and video quality. Whether you’re watching movies, playing video games, or listening to music, this receiver offers impressive performance across the board.

Audio Performance:

The AVR-X1700H shines in its audio capabilities, especially with its support for multi-dimensional sound formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. These technologies create a 3D audio environment, enveloping listeners in rich, dynamic sound. The Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology adds even more depth, providing a sense of verticality even without physical height speakers, which is ideal for users with space constraints.

The receiver’s 7-channel amplifier ensures consistent power delivery, maintaining high performance even during demanding audio sequences. Whether you’re watching a high-octane action movie or listening to a delicate acoustic track, the AVR-X1700H handles both with ease, producing clear, well-balanced sound. Thanks to Audyssey MultEQ XT, the receiver adjusts the sound to match the acoustics of your room, ensuring an optimal listening experience.

Video Performance:

The advanced HDMI section of the AVR-X1700H ensures that your video playback is sharp, vibrant, and immersive. With support for 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through, this receiver is future-proofed for the latest video formats. The HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision support enhances contrast and color accuracy, allowing for a breathtaking visual experience with compatible content.

Additionally, the eARC functionality allows for high-quality audio transmission from your TV to the receiver without any degradation, ensuring that object-based audio from your smart TV apps, such as Netflix or Amazon Prime, comes through clearly and with full dynamic range.

Gaming Performance:

Gamers will also appreciate the AVR-X1700H’s 4K/120Hz pass-through and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) support, which ensures smoother, tear-free gameplay. Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) reduces input lag, providing a competitive edge for fast-paced gaming sessions.

Customer Feedback

The Denon AVR-X1700H has garnered praise from a wide range of users, especially for its sound quality and ease of use. Many customers highlight its ability to deliver exceptional surround sound, which enhances the overall movie and gaming experience. A few standout comments include:

• One user mentioned that the AVR-X1700H significantly boosted their surround sound system, delivering an immersive and clear audio experience, especially with Dolby Atmos content.
• Another customer appreciated the quick and easy setup process, crediting the included Quick Start Guide and the Audyssey room correction system for making the setup straightforward.
• Several users also praised its video performance, particularly the HDR support and 8K capabilities, stating that they were impressed by the clarity and richness of both video and audio output.

However, there are a few mixed reviews when it comes to connectivity and compatibility. Some customers reported issues with network connectivity or the receiver not working out of the box, though these seem to be isolated incidents. Additionally, a few users had compatibility issues with other devices in their home theater setups, though others reported seamless integration with secondary amplifiers.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Immersive 3D Audio: Supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and DTS Virtual:X for a rich, dynamic soundstage.
• Advanced Video Features: 8K support, HDR10, Dolby Vision, and eARC ensure top-tier video quality.
• Easy Setup: Quick Start Guide and Audyssey MultEQ XT make installation and calibration simple.
• Multi-room Streaming: HEOS Built-in offers flexible multi-room audio options.
• Voice Control: Works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri for hands-free operation.
• Future-proof: 8K and 4K/120Hz pass-through prepare your system for future content.

Cons:

• Connectivity Issues: Some users have reported initial setup problems, though this is not widespread.
• Limited Pre-outs: Only two subwoofer pre-outs, which may be limiting for larger setups.
• No Front Panel Display: The lack of a clear front-panel display may be inconvenient for some users.

Final Verdict

The Denon AVR-X1700H is a fantastic option for anyone looking to upgrade their home theater system. It offers exceptional audio and video performance, making it ideal for movie lovers, gamers, and music enthusiasts alike. The inclusion of Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and 8K pass-through ensures that you’re equipped for the latest technologies, while HEOS multi-room streaming adds convenience and flexibility.

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