Summary: This receiver replaced a Dolby ProLogic Yamaha RX-V493. Before purchasing it I also considered Yamaha RX-V740, Onkyo TX-SR601, and Marantz SR5300. The Denon was available at a reasonable price and I have read good reviews about it. Also, I like to experiment new brands and I have never had a Denon before.
It perfoms well with Dolby Digital DVDs. It has many surround modes for music listening. Besides Dolby PL-II and DTS-Neo, there are some DSP modes (concert hall, jazz club, matrix, stadium, etc) . But, it sounds so good in stereo mode that I never use surround modes when listening to CDs or FM.
Strengths: - good Dolby Digital performance
- clear and airy sound in stereo mode
- good sounding FM. I liked it very much
- many surround modes
Weaknesses: I don´t think this receiver has some great weakness, but I think Denon could improve some features:
? slow to change between sources and between surround modes (the sound mutes for quite a while when you change from one source/mode to another). And the sound mutes when you’re changing surround parameters;
- a primitive (not very friendly) on-screen menu
- a bit confusing operating manual
- the remote can control other sources but the switch to select them is tiny and dificult to use
- the front panel is metallic, but I think it could have a more solid feel. My old Yamaha was better in this respect
- small volume level display. It´s dificult to see from my listening position
- packaging: it´s not only Denon, in these days it´s difficult to find a well packed AV equipment
- test tone starts very loud. When I activated it for the first time I was catch by surprise. Tip: after start the test, be prepared to decrease the volume fastly pressing the ´-´ round button on the remote
- there is a mute key, but after muted, all the sound returns even if you down the volume. It seems logic to stay muted letting you decrease the level and then, when you´re done, you press mute again to restart listening at the desired level
- if you´re considering using zone 2 mode, beware that this output is mono (the 6th channel is used to power the zone 2)
Similar Products Used: None
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Summary: The AVR-1804 is an excellent performer. It's able to produce outstanding results for both Home cinema and Music. This receiver has a amazing Multichannel-music operation that brings sounds to life.
Highly recommended.
Strengths: High-loaded power amplifiers
Dynamic multi-channel music-and home cinema sound
Precise and powerful bass range
Strong Dolby Pro Logic 2-integration
Outstanding stereo sound
Simple operating
Weaknesses: Haven't found any yet.
Similar Products Used: Teac AG-9320
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Summary: This is a wonderful receiver with great options. We purchased this receiver for our first 5.1 home theater system. I am driving Polk speakers all the way around with the exception of the sub which is a Velodyne DLS-3500. I am very impressed with this receiver which is classified as an Entry Mid-Level receiver. It has clear on screen display for setting up all of the options for the unit. The back panel is easy to understand and see where the different sources need to go. I am very happy with our purchase and I look forward to many years of great entertainment out of it.
Strengths: Onscreen display, 90W RMS/Channel, large front dimmable display. Ease of setting up the receiver.
Weaknesses: Wish there was a way to set a specific crossover for the front speakers.
Similar Products Used: None.
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Summary: I just recently decided to switch from a high quality two-channel set-up to a multi-channel system. After much research and focus on Yamaha, H-K, Denon and Onkyo products, I selected the 1804. I am extremely happy with this unit. The build quality is very good, digital processing seems very good, plenty of options for connections, on-screen programming helps a lot, plenty of power for all channels (but I am using relatively efficient Paradigm speakers), and attractive uncluttered appearance.
I also like the future expansion possibilities of additional channels or another room system. Overall, a very good value product. There are several other good buys at this price level, but I don't think the others match the build quality of Denon.
Strengths: see above
Weaknesses: manual could be better written.
I don't like the component switching on the remote, otherwise it's fine.
Similar Products Used: Yamaha
Sansui
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