Denon AVC-X8500H, home theater amplifier "no more"

Denon AVC-X8500H, state-of-the-art home theater amplifier

Sound specialist but highly specialized in home theater systems, Denon introduces "no more." The new Denon AVC-X8500H is an AV amplifier that raises the bar for other manufacturers. It has 13 channels of amplification and can handle the most complex audio system possible on its own. It supports the latest surround sound formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS: X and Auro-3D. With its maximum full complement of speakers, and without the need for external devices. This "beast" is made in Japan, by hand and in short series. It measures 434 millimeters wide, 195 millimeters high, and 482 millimeters deep and weighs 23 kg. Its price: 3,700 euros .

Up to 13.2 channels

The guts of the new Denon AVC-X8500H hide a whopping 13 power stages. That is, more than six traditional stereo amplifiers put together. Each of these internal stages is rated at 150 W at 8 Ohms and with 0 ”™ 05% distortion on two channels at a time. And each of them is capable of a 210 W peak (6 Ohms and 1% distortion).

Denon AVC-X8500H internal stages

For what so many channels? Well, so that he can only power a system that takes advantage of all the channels available in a Dobly Atmos or DTS: X soundtrack. We have the 7 traditional channels located on the same plane. The front left, center and right; the two for side surround effects, and the two for rear effects. To these seven are added another six in a higher plane (ceiling). They are the four of effects in height of the Dolby Atmos or DTS: X (lateral and rear) plus two extra of frontal effects in height. Total, 13 speakers, or as now a configuration “7.2.6” is noted. To which we will have to add up to two active bass cajons (they have their own amplification), hence the notation ".2". It will also (with software update) support Auros 3D sound from up to three speaker layers (13.1).

Artificial intelligence

Uncontrolled power is useless, and all that potential is very well controlled in the Denon AVC-X8500H. From the outset, it launches the Smart Home Skill functionality: it accepts voice commands compatible with Amazon's Alexa. It has full network connectivity (Ethernet, dual band WiFi and Bluetooth). It is also compatible with AirPlay as standard to easily communicate with iOS devices. And of course it's compatible with Denon's proprietary multi-room system, HEOS. It allows you to transfer audio to and from other rooms in any format, even high resolution DSD files up to 5 ”™ 6MHz.

Denon AVC-X8500H CPU's

The use of Alexa voice commands (expected to be available in Spain in spring) allows you to send commands to any connected device. It is possible to turn it on and off, change the volume, stop the music and resume it, select a sound source ”¦ and so on. Even without Alexa , controlling the new Denon AVC-X8500H will be very intuitive . In addition to the usual and complete remote control, the dedicated application has improved. And integration with other home automation systems is now easier (SDDP certified). It even has aids for installers like Denon's own HDMI diagnostics, to avoid compatibility conflicts between devices.

Total connectivity

The Denon AVC-X8500H has eight HDMI inputs and three outputs, with support for the latter. Supports 4K / 60Hz, HDCP 2.2, HDR, Dolby Vision, 4: 4: 4 color resolution and BT.2020. It is capable of upscaling video from sources below 4K Ultra HD. Makes it easy to connect next-generation televisions with eARC (High-Quality Audio Return from TV). And it will allow for its open architecture a future expansion towards 8K .

Denon AVC-X8500H pre-outs

At the sound level, in addition to the 13 internal channels, it has up to 15.2 outputs for optional external stages. For calibration and adjustment use the Audissey system in its most complete variant "Platinum". It is the maximum standard MultEQ XT32 and adds the MutlEQ Editor through its mobile application. Dedicated hobbyists will be able to correct and tailor their room sound to detail.