Denon AVR-X3800H
VERDICT
This receiver is the sweet spot of the audio world. It offers high-end features previously reserved for $4,000 flagships—like four independent subwoofer outputs and Dirac Live upgradability—at a mid-range price. If you want to build a serious 5.1.4 or 7.1.2 Dolby Atmos system, this is the brain you need.
The Big Picture
A soundbar is easy, but a receiver is powerful. The Denon AVR-X3800H powers 9 speakers right out of the box, but it can process 11 channels if you add an external amp. It supports every major format: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced, and Auro-3D. Plus, with full HDMI 2.1 support, it’s ready for PS5 and Xbox Series X gaming at 4K/120Hz.
🔊 4 Independent Subwoofers
The Game Changer: Most receivers treat all subs as one. The X3800H has 4 independent outputs.
Why it matters: Using "Directional Bass" mode, the receiver can steer bass around the room just like the other speakers. Or, it can calibrate each sub individually to ensure every seat in your theater gets smooth, impactful bass without "dead zones."
🎛️ Dirac Live Ready
The Audiophile's Dream.
Room Correction: It comes with Audyssey MultEQ XT32 for free, which is great. But it also supports Dirac Live (via paid license). Dirac is widely considered the best room correction software in the world, tightening up impulse response and making your speakers disappear acoustically.
✅ The Pros
- 11.4 Channel Processing: Expandable to a massive 7.4.4 setup.
- Full 8K & Gaming Support: All HDMI inputs support 4K/120Hz and VRR.
- HEOS Built-in: Streams Spotify, Tidal, and AirPlay 2 across your home.
- Excellent on-screen setup assistant for beginners.
❌ The Cons
- Heat: This unit runs hot; it needs good ventilation or a cooling fan.
- Hidden Costs: Dirac Live license costs extra ($250-$350).
- Plastic Front: The front panel is plastic (unlike the metal X4800H).
🤔 Should you buy it?
YES if you are building a dedicated home theater room and want room to grow.
NO if you just want better TV sound in a living room (the setup complexity is overkill; get a Sonos Arc system instead).
See the showdown: Denon AVR-X3800H vs. Marantz Cinema 50 Comparison