Denon AVR1612 AV Surround Receiver

Denon AVR1612 AV Surround Receiver — image 1
81%
19%
88%
Value for Money
82%
Sound Quality
84%
Ease of Setup
85%
Connectivity Options
65%
HDMI Switching Speed
80%
Power Output
87%
Design & Build Quality
83%
Audio Processing
89%
3D Video Support
76%
User Manual & Documentation
80%
Remote Control Functionality
78%
Durability
More

Overview

The Denon AVR1612 AV Surround Receiver is a compact and powerful 5.1-channel receiver designed for home theater enthusiasts. It offers support for HDMI 1.4a and delivers 3D video compatibility for a fully immersive viewing experience. The receiver features discrete power amplifiers, each rated at 75 watts, providing solid sound performance for movies, music, and gaming. With its sleek, modern design and compact size, this receiver fits easily into most entertainment setups without compromising on power or connectivity.

Features & Benefits

This Denon receiver offers a range of features to enhance your home theater experience. It includes five HDMI inputs and one output, making it easy to connect multiple devices, from gaming consoles to Blu-ray players. The built-in Compressed Audio Restorer ensures that even low-quality audio sources sound better, while the adjustable muting level gives users control over the listening experience. Additionally, the receiver’s surround sound processing brings cinema-like sound immersion to your living room, making it ideal for movie lovers.

Best For

The Denon AVR1612 AV Surround Receiver is best suited for home theater enthusiasts seeking an affordable yet effective surround sound receiver. Its versatile HDMI connectivity and compact design make it a great choice for users who want to build a simple yet powerful home theater system. Whether you're setting up a basic surround sound configuration or enhancing your TV and gaming console audio, this receiver provides a reliable and cost-effective solution for casual entertainment setups.

User Feedback

User feedback for this Denon receiver is generally positive, with many praising its sound quality and overall performance for the price. Customers appreciate the ease of setup and the solid, reliable performance it offers for movies and TV shows. However, some users have expressed concerns about HDMI switching speed, noting occasional delays when switching between devices. While it offers excellent value for casual use, it may not fully satisfy audiophile users who require higher-end sound quality and features.

#Receivers
#Receivers & Amplifiers
#Home Theater
#Home Audio
#Electronics

Pros

  • This home theater receiver offers a great balance of features and affordability, making it ideal for users on a budget.
  • Supports HDMI 1.4a, 3D video, and Audio Return Channel, ensuring compatibility with modern TVs and devices.
  • The five HDMI inputs and one output provide excellent connectivity for multiple devices like gaming consoles and Blu-ray players.
  • Compact and sleek design makes it easy to integrate into most home theater setups without taking up too much space.
  • The adjustable muting level gives users personalized audio control for different listening preferences.
  • With a power output of 75 watts per channel, this device offers reliable audio for standard home theater setups.

Cons

  • Some users report slower HDMI switching, which can cause delays when switching between connected devices.
  • The sound quality may not meet the expectations of audiophiles or those seeking high-end audio performance.
  • Not powerful enough for larger rooms or high-power audio systems that require more wattage.
  • The mechanical knob control is less intuitive compared to modern digital interfaces, which may feel outdated to some users.
  • Limited to wired connectivity, which may not be ideal for users looking for wireless audio solutions.
  • The receiver may not fully meet the needs of users with advanced surround sound setups or extensive device connectivity.

Ratings

The Denon AVR1612 AV Surround Receiver has received generally positive feedback across multiple review platforms and languages worldwide. RR-AI analyzed verified user reviews to provide these scores, ensuring that spam, bot-generated, and incentivized reviews were filtered out. Both strengths and potential drawbacks are represented, giving you an honest overview of how this receiver performs in real-world settings.

Value for Money
88%
Many buyers highlight the impressive value this receiver offers, especially considering its affordable price. The solid performance and quality audio make it an excellent option for those on a budget looking to build a home theater setup without compromising on key features like HDMI connectivity and surround sound processing.
Some users feel that while the receiver offers great value, it may lack the advanced features and top-tier audio performance needed for audiophiles. A few reviews mention that higher-end models provide superior sound quality and features, making it less ideal for those seeking premium performance.
Sound Quality
82%
18%
Users generally appreciate the clear and rich sound delivered by this receiver. The built-in Compressed Audio Restorer enhances lower-quality audio, providing a more immersive experience when watching movies or listening to music. This makes it a great option for casual users who want solid sound without breaking the bank.
While many find the sound quality adequate for everyday use, some users report that it falls short for those with a discerning ear. Audiophiles may find the bass response lacking or the overall audio not as detailed as higher-end models, which could lead to dissatisfaction for users looking for top-tier sound performance.
Ease of Setup
84%
Several users mention that setting up this receiver is relatively straightforward, especially for those with basic home theater setups. The inclusion of clear instructions and intuitive controls make the process easy for most users, even if they’re not particularly tech-savvy. Many also appreciate the compact design, which makes it easier to find space in their entertainment center.
A few buyers note that the initial setup can be tricky for users who are new to A/V receivers. Some users had difficulty navigating the interface and configuring the surround sound properly, suggesting that it may not be as user-friendly for beginners as some other models.
Connectivity Options
85%
This receiver's five HDMI inputs and one output offer excellent flexibility for connecting multiple devices, such as gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and set-top boxes. Users appreciate the inclusion of HDMI 1.4a support, which enables 3D video and Audio Return Channel functionality, enhancing the overall convenience and versatility of the receiver.
Some users have pointed out that the HDMI switching speed can be slower than expected, especially when switching between multiple devices. This may be frustrating for users who frequently switch between gaming consoles or streaming devices, as it can cause a delay during operation.
HDMI Switching Speed
65%
35%
The receiver generally performs well in terms of HDMI connectivity, with users enjoying the ability to switch between devices without much hassle. Those who don’t mind a brief delay find the switching speed acceptable for their needs, particularly for casual TV viewing or movie watching.
A number of users have expressed frustration with the HDMI switching speed. Some report noticeable delays when switching between devices, which can interrupt the viewing or gaming experience. This issue may be more noticeable for users with several HDMI devices connected simultaneously.
Power Output
80%
20%
At 75 watts per channel, this receiver offers enough power for most users, providing clear and sufficient volume levels for everyday home theater setups. Many users find this power output to be more than adequate for their needs, especially in smaller to medium-sized rooms.
A few users note that while the power output is sufficient for regular use, it may not be enough for larger rooms or high-power setups. Some have reported that the volume levels can feel lacking when the receiver is pushed to its limits, especially with more demanding audio tracks or during loud action scenes.
Design & Build Quality
87%
The compact design and sleek look of the receiver are often mentioned positively. Users appreciate its modern aesthetic and how well it fits into most home entertainment setups without taking up too much space. The solid build quality is also noted, with many reporting that it feels sturdy and durable.
A small number of users mentioned that the design, while sleek, could have been better in terms of button placement and control layout. The mechanical knob, while functional, can feel somewhat outdated compared to more modern touch-based controls, which some users found less intuitive.
Audio Processing
83%
Many users are pleased with the surround sound processing capabilities of this receiver. The surround sound modes enhance the audio experience, providing a more immersive feel when watching movies or playing games. This makes it a great choice for those seeking an entry-level receiver with good audio processing features.
Some users report that the audio processing could be more advanced, especially when compared to higher-end models. The processing doesn't quite match up to premium options, and a few buyers feel that it lacks the depth and clarity needed for more demanding audio experiences.
3D Video Support
89%
For users who enjoy 3D content, this receiver’s support for 3D video is a big plus. The 3D compatibility works seamlessly with Blu-ray players and other 3D devices, providing a smooth viewing experience. Users appreciate that it helps elevate their home theater setup without requiring additional equipment.
Though many users find the 3D video support useful, a few note that the receiver might not handle 3D video as flawlessly as higher-end models. Some users report occasional glitches or compatibility issues with specific 3D sources, though these instances seem relatively rare.
User Manual & Documentation
76%
24%
The included user manual is clear enough for most users to understand the basic setup process. Many users find it helpful for connecting devices and configuring basic features, particularly when setting up HDMI connections and configuring surround sound settings.
However, some users express dissatisfaction with the user manual’s depth. A few buyers felt that the instructions didn’t go into enough detail for more complex features, such as advanced audio settings and fine-tuning. This led to confusion for those who wanted to make the most of the receiver’s full capabilities.
Remote Control Functionality
80%
20%
Users generally find the remote control easy to use and well-organized. The buttons are responsive, and the layout is intuitive, making it simple to navigate the receiver’s functions from a distance. Several users find it convenient for controlling the receiver while sitting comfortably on the couch.
On the downside, a few users report that the remote could be more durable, with some experiencing issues with the buttons over time. Others felt that the range was slightly limited compared to other remotes in this price range, which may require users to be closer to the receiver for optimal control.
Durability
78%
22%
Users generally find the receiver to be sturdy and well-built. The robust construction ensures that it can handle daily use in a home entertainment system without major issues. It holds up well over time, even with regular switching between devices and adjusting settings.
However, some buyers report that the receiver’s durability could be improved. A few users experienced issues with overheating or occasional malfunctions after prolonged use, suggesting that it might not be as long-lasting as higher-end models designed for heavy-duty use.

Suitable for:

The Denon AVR1612 AV Surround Receiver is a great choice for home theater enthusiasts who are looking for an affordable yet solid audio solution. It’s ideal for users with basic surround sound setups or those who are looking to enhance their TV audio experience, such as casual TV watchers or gamers. The receiver’s 5.1-channel configuration and HDMI connectivity make it perfect for connecting multiple devices, like gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and streaming devices. If you're setting up a home theater system on a budget but still want reliable sound and modern features like 3D video support, this device is well-suited for your needs.

Not suitable for:

This receiver may not be the best fit for audiophiles or users who demand top-tier sound quality and performance. While it provides good sound for casual listening, its 75-watt per channel output and basic audio processing may fall short for those looking for a more dynamic or detailed listening experience. Additionally, users with large rooms or high-power audio setups might find its power output insufficient. People who frequently switch between multiple HDMI devices may also be frustrated by the slower HDMI switching speed, which can cause delays and interruptions.

Specifications

  • Channels: The receiver features 5.1-channel surround sound for immersive audio experiences in home theater setups.
  • HDMI Inputs: It includes five HDMI inputs for connecting multiple audio-visual devices, such as gaming consoles and Blu-ray players.
  • HDMI Output: The device has one HDMI output for connecting to a TV or projector.
  • Audio Return Channel: Supports Audio Return Channel (ARC) for sending audio from the TV back to the receiver over the same HDMI cable.
  • Power Output: The receiver delivers 75 watts per channel, providing sufficient power for most home theater configurations.
  • 3D Video Support: Supports 3D video through HDMI 1.4a, allowing you to connect 3D-compatible devices for an enhanced viewing experience.
  • Compressed Audio Restorer: Features a Compressed Audio Restorer, improving sound quality for compressed audio formats like MP3 and AAC.
  • Adjustable Muting Level: Offers an adjustable muting level, allowing users to customize the audio volume during pauses or transitions.
  • Surround Sound Processing: Includes surround sound processing to enhance the audio output for a more immersive movie and gaming experience.
  • Connectivity: The receiver offers wired connectivity options, ensuring stable and high-quality audio and video transmission.
  • Control Type: Control is managed through a mechanical knob and a remote control, giving users a simple and tactile interface.
  • Dimensions: The receiver measures 15 x 17.1 x 6.4 inches, making it compact enough for most entertainment centers.
  • Weight: It weighs 20.2 pounds, which is typical for a home theater receiver with this feature set.
  • Manufacturer: The receiver is manufactured by Denon Electronics USA LLC, a reputable brand in the audio equipment market.
  • Batteries: The receiver is powered by two AAA batteries, which are included for initial use.

FAQ

The Denon AVR1612 AV Surround Receiver is a 5.1-channel audio/video receiver designed for home theater setups, offering HDMI 1.4a support, 3D video, and an Audio Return Channel, making it ideal for movie and TV viewing.

To set up this device, connect your HDMI devices to the five available HDMI inputs and connect your TV to the HDMI output. Afterward, connect the receiver to your speakers, and adjust the audio settings using the on-screen display or the physical controls.

No, this model only supports wired connectivity. If you require wireless functionality, such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi streaming, you may need an additional adapter or a different model.

Yes, the Denon AVR1612 supports HDMI 1.4a, which allows it to handle 3D video, making it suitable for newer Blu-ray players and 3D-capable televisions.

Each channel of this receiver outputs 75 watts, providing enough power for typical home theater setups, especially in smaller to medium-sized rooms.

You can control volume and other settings via the mechanical knob on the receiver itself or by using the remote control provided. The on-screen menu also allows for detailed adjustments.

Yes, this receiver supports older HDMI devices and will work with a wide range of home theater systems. However, if you're using legacy equipment like older TVs or Blu-ray players, you might need to use analog audio or video connections.

Absolutely. The Denon AVR1612 has five HDMI inputs, which can be used to connect various devices, including gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and set-top boxes, for an enhanced audio-visual experience.

Yes, it features surround sound processing, providing an immersive audio experience ideal for movies and games. It helps create a richer sound environment when connected to a compatible speaker system.

Some users have noted slower HDMI switching speeds when changing between devices. Additionally, audiophiles may find the sound quality lacking compared to more expensive models designed for high-end audio setups.