Denon AVR-3312CI 7.2 Channel Integrated Network A/V Receiver Preview

On the heels of everyone else announcing new receivers, Denon's new '12 line, dubbed their "IN-Command Series" has reared its head. While we know that more receivers in this line are on the way, the first three to hit are the AVR-2112CI (SRP:$599.99), AVR-2312CI (SRP:$799.99) and AVR-3312CI (SRP:$999.99). While the cheaper two have their advantages (namely trading in certain features for a lower price), we'll be focusing on the $1k AVR-3312CI in this first look.

Denon has a new look for their '12 line which seems to favor a slightly convex front plate rather than the industrial flat one we've seen from them and just about everyone else since people starting making AV gear. We're thinking this is a Marantz influence but we're sure they'd deny that. Denon has been making many inroads into giving consumers the network and ease-of-use features they want. The '12 series is making great leaps in that direction. First out of the gate is compatibility with Apple's new AirPlay. This allows you to stream, wirelessly, their iTunes content from their wi-fi enabled i-devices or from their networked PC or Macs. The receivers also have a front mounted USB port for direct connection and compatibility with your i-device.

If you are more of a streaming from the Internet type, the '12 series has you covered there as well. With DNLA 1.5 and Windows 7 compatibility, you'll have no problems streaming content from your compatible networked devices. Denon has also given the '12 receivers a web-browser function which also gives you access to Internet radio, Pandora, Rhapsody, Napster, and Flickr.

Denon rates the AVR-3312CI at 125 watts for each of the seven channels all with discrete amps. There are a ton of connections on the back but what is important is that it has seven (included on on the front) HDMI 1.4 inputs with 3D support. We couldn't find any information on the Denon website on Audio Return Channel or HDMI Standby Pass-thru bu that doesn't mean it doesn't support it. It just isn't listed anywhere. We did notice an ARC label next to the dual HDMI outputs so we suspect that Audio Return Channel is supported. There are two component video inputs, five (one front mounted) composite video inputs, two s-video, two coaxial and three (one front mounted) optical digital inputs, and a slew of analogue audio. While there are no 7.1 channel analogue audio inputs for integrating legacy gear, there are 7.2 channel pre-outs for adding external amps and two subs. There are pre-outs for two additional zones of audio, a composite video output for Zone 2, and the back amps can be routed to power those zones as well.

As you'd expect with Denon, Audyssey is on board with their MultEQ room correction, this time with the XT pro system. This allows installers to fine tune the room response. There are five way binding posts for all seven channels plus provisions for two additional pairs of speakers for changing your configuration on the fly without having to switch wires. This allows you to utilize the height channels of Dolby ProLogic IIz or the height or width channels of Audyssey DSX at will (you just need to reassign the amps from the menu). All the latest HD audio formats and DSPs are on board. Denon has included upconversion to HDMI of all analogue sources as well as upscaling to 1080p over HDMI. They didn't name the chipset that is performing these duties which may mean it is a proprietary one.

Denon is also bragging a new, streamlined appearance. Denon claims that the new IN-Command line has "a sleek new Denon cosmetic, with a newly designed front panel and thinner profile." Well, the AVR-3312CI is 17.1" wide, 6.7" high, and 15" deep weighing in a 22.5 lbs while the previous mode, the AVR-3311CI was, according to the website, the exact same dimensions but weighed in at 26.9lbs. We've found that receiver manufacturers are notorious for mistakes on their websites so perhaps this is an example.

Conclusion

We're always excited to check out new receivers and the Denon AVR-3312CI is no different. There is a lot of muscle under the hood and tons of options. Including Audyssey MultEQ Pro in such and affordable product is quite nice as is out of the box support for Apple's AirPlay, Windows 7 compatibility, and DNLA support. Of course all the HDMI inputs (7) and outputs (2) are HDMI version 1.4 which means 3D and Audio Return Channel are available and supported. Whether you are a newbie looking for a nice receiver that you can grow into, a power user who likes the latest features with the ability to tweak, or an installer looking for a receiver for a budget install, the Denon AVR-3312CI has something for you.

For more information, please visit www.usa.denon.com.

Unless otherwise indicated, this is a preview article for the featured product. A formal review may or may not follow in the future.