0402WHC06 Denon AVR-1604 GT*

12/9/03

11:11 AM

Page 83

Group Test # Integrated Amplifiers

AVR-1604 265

ts a great time to buy home cinema gear. Even the big names are busy torturing price tags. Denons new AVR-1604 comes in at under 300, yet includes the latest Dolby Digital EX and DTS ES 6.1 channel surround sound formats. It also has Dolby Pro-Logic II, but not the latest DPL IIx, designed for 7.1 channel systems, which will be a feature of next years high-end amps. The AVR-1604 delivers 75W to all six channels, and comes in the classic Denon livery that has remained functionally unchanged for a decade or so. Its also extremely easy to operate. One of the neater touches is the front auxiliary input, which lacks S-Video input but does include an optical digital audio input for those with a MiniDisc or PlayStation who dont want to permanently connect the product at the rear, but want surround sound action. A big omission at the rear is component video switching, but both composite and S-Video inputs and outputs are covered. Despite the low price, the Denon concentrates on traditional Denon obsessions with power supply and transformer quality. It also features the over-large aluminium heatsinking that has become a Denon trait of recent years. And, despite missing a few features on the outside, internal circuitry is very strong, with high-quality 32-bit processing and 24bit, 96kHz digital audio conversion throughout (unlike the more expensive Marantz, it is not DTS 24/96 approved, but delivers performance almost up to that mark). The sound is good and neutral; always listenable and always clean and understandable. It isnt the last word in edge-of-the-seat dynamic oomph on DVD or rich musical satisfaction on CD, but nor is it bland or uninspired. Theres a great sense of filling the room with sound, and a smooth, satisfying cohesiveness from speaker to speaker that cossets the listener and places them right in the midst of the action. This enveloping, understated sound really works, as you feel you want to watch film after film. TEST SCENE

LOTR: THE TWO TOWERS

TALKING TO THE TREES
The Denons correct and natural sound means that even the deep rumblings of Treebeard the Ent are easy to understand

Solid performer

There is still a strong sense of solidity to the sound, but not in a bold, over-awing manner. Instead, sounds simply exist in their own 3D space in a correct and almost understated manner, just like a palpable, real-world sound does. This gives a sense of resolute control over The Two Towers, not just in the slash-and-bash scenes like the final battle, but even when the two hobbits are surrounded by orcs discussing their fate. Here, you really do get to feel like you are surrounded by dirty cockneys with yellow eyes and bad teeth just like a night out on The Old Kent Road, really. In short, the Denon AVR-1604 is extremely competent, and gives a performance that would have been impossible to replicate at twice the price only a couple of years ago. Its certainly worth seeking out, and is recommended unless youre after component video switching at a low, low price. WHC

GOOD POINTS

Neutral, listenable sound. Solidly made Denon at a new low price

BAD POINTS

Lacks component video and front S-Video inputs. Slightly understated sound. Dated looks, perhaps?

OVERALL

Great all-rounder from a big name, at a bargain price. Just a few feature omissions keep it from the top slots

RATINGS

Style Ease of use Features Build Sound Value Overall ######$$$$ #######$$$ #######$$$ ########$$ ########$$ ########$$ ########$$
What Home Cinema February 2004