Audio-video receivers, more commonly known as AV receivers, are used chiefly used to enlarge sound from the many different audio sources that can come with the home theater systems of today. In addition, they also route video signals to the TV, such as from Blu-Ray or DVD players. Therefore, AV receivers like the Denon AVR-5308 AV Receiver provide the user with more control, including the ability to configure and program audio and video sources that eventually come out of your TV and speakers.
The Denon AVR-5308 AV Receiver pretty much has everything that your home entertainment system needs. First, it provides 150W x 7 channels and up-to-date Dolby, THX, and DTS decoding. You will also find that it features HDCD, MP3, WMA, Dolby Headphone, and Neural Surround Mode XMCF processing. The latter decodes 5.1 or 7.1 discrete channels from Neural-encoded 2-channel sources like in broadcasts and games.
The AVR-5308 AV Receiver also processes video with 6 HDMI 1.3 inputs, 7 S-video inputs, multi-zone video inputs, and 6 component inputs. This model even uses a Silicon Optix Realta HQV chipset, instantly “up” converting or upscaling any analog and digital source to a satisfactory 1080p.
The 2-zone preamp outputs as well as built-in media server (powered by Ethernet and/or WiFi) delivers music that may be stored in your computer, streamed directly from online, or using partner services like Rhapsody and XM satellite radio. There is also an optional cable and a wireless dock that lets you use the exclusive iPod port.
Audio-wise, you will find 24-bit/96kHz-capable digital audio inputs, including 4 coaxials, 2 BNC, 4 TosLink, 1 HDMI, and 1 USB. Moreover, this model has the proprietary Denon Link, Denon’s own implementation of popular FireWire that handles high-resolution audio with up to 24-bit/192kHz support for some source components (also manufactured by Denon).
The Upside
The Denon AVR-5308 AV Receiver is fully-loaded! This top-of-the-line AV receiver has a satisfying set of features as well as a lot more extras. In all likelihood, you will not even use most of its features. However, many home theater enthusiasts pay top dollar for flexibility. Since the Denon AVR-5308 AV Receiver is the most flexible AV receiver in the market today, it will adapt to your changing needs and last you for a good, long while.
The AVR-5308 AV Receiver has a ton of HDMI input, but it also provides optimized video scaling and decoding/processing even of newer, uncompressed audi codecs like DTS HD Master Audio. What’s more, this model also acts as a music server for MP3s and other audio files on your PC. You can even use your computer or your iPhone to control it (apart from the 2 included remote controls).
The Downside
The AVR-5308 AV Receiver is very large in size and hefty in price as well. Yes, you also get what you pay for in terms of sheer power and amount of features. In addition, this model does not provide balanced inputs and outputs. On the other hand, 12 preamp outputs offer enough flexibility for adding different amplifiers.
Conclusion
The Denon AVR-5308 AV Receiver is the perfect choice for a top-of-the-line control center for your home theater. It provides many connectivity options that make it both flexible and easy to integrate. Chances are you will never use all the options this AV receiver provides. However, you will be content to know, you won’t need to upgrade AV receivers any time soon. The Denon AVR-5308 AV Receiver will continue to accommodate your current and future needs for a long time to come.
