Denon unveils its new AV receiver: the Denon AVC-X2850H. The Japanese brand is enriching its range with a 7.2-channel model designed to offer power, flexibility and ease of use. The successor to the Denon AVR-X2800H DAB, it retains its 7.2-channel architecture while inheriting the brand’s latest advances to offer an immersive audiovisual experience, whether for cinema, music or gaming, at a price that remains affordable.
A strategic mid-range model
Priced at €839, the Denon AVC-X2850H AV receiver is positioned in the middle of the Japanese manufacturer’s range, offering an intermediate link between the Denon AVC-X2800H DAB and the 9.4-channel Denon AVC-X3800H. It incorporates the key elements of the 2800H, with a 7.2-channel configuration and a power rating of 95 watts into 8 ohms in hi-fi conditions. The audio processor supports multichannel tracks, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X formats. Dolby Surround and DTS Neural:X allow effects to be distributed across all channels, even with stereo or non-Atmos movies. Thanks to a new Pure CTS HDMI generator, the manufacturer promises a reduction in clock jitter for even more precise and accurate reproduction.
HDMI 2.1 with gaming features
Like the X2800H DAB, the new Denon AVC-X2850H home theater receiver adopts six HDMI inputs, three of which comply with the HDMI 2.1 standard. These support UHD 4K streams up to 120Hz and 8K 60 fps. Designed with gamers in mind, the AVC-X2850H natively integrates the main HDMI 2.1 technologies. VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) dynamically synchronizes the screen refresh rate with that of the source to eliminate image tearing. ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) automatically reduces latency when switching to game mode, guaranteeing immediate responsiveness without the need for tedious manual adjustments. In addition, QFT (Quick Frame Transport) drastically reduces the transmission delay between source and screen, providing additional comfort in fast-paced or competitive games where every millisecond counts. Last but not least, HDR10+ and Dolby Vision remain part of the package.
Channel level display
The AVC-X2850H introduces channel level monitoring, a major new feature that wasn’t present on the AVC-X2800H DAB. This function displays the activity and output levels of each speaker directly on the TV screen, in real time. In concrete terms, it shows which channels are being used during a film, series or video game, and at what intensity. It helps, for example, to ensure that a rear or Atmos speaker is correctly activated, or to compare the load on the subwoofer according to settings and sources.
Bluetooth transmitter with output level control
Another welcome innovation: the AVC-X2850H incorporates a Bluetooth transmitter capable of broadcasting the AVR’s sound to wireless headphones or earbuds. This function already existed on certain Denon models, but the X2850H goes a step further by allowing independent adjustment of the output level. This means you can enjoy a film at night on Bluetooth headphones without disturbing those around you, while retaining precise volume control.
Latest HEOS network module
While the Denon AVC-X2850H adopts a new-generation HEOS network module, it retains the spirit of previous models, offering a comprehensive and intuitive connected experience. Users benefit from direct access to major music streaming services such as Spotify, Tidal, Amazon Music and Qobuz, with Qobuz Connect compatibility for simplified playback in true original quality. Beyond online streaming, the AV receiver can also play files shared on the home network in DLNA with up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution. For more everyday uses, wireless streaming is made easy via AirPlay 2 or Bluetooth. Finally, thanks to the HEOS multi-room ecosystem, the AVC-X2850H can be integrated into a group of Denon or Marantz connected speakers, or linked to other compatible speakers for AirPlay 2 streaming.
A measured but welcome change
With the AVC-X2850H, Denon offers above all a subtle upgrade of its highly popular AVC-X2800H DAB. The basis remains the same: a versatile 7.2-channel 95W AV receiver, designed to combine power, precision and ease of use, with support for the latest audio and video formats. New features focus on practical details such as real-time channel level monitoring and a volume-adjustable Bluetooth transmitter, not to mention reduced jitter for greater precision.
If you already own an X2800H DAB perfectly suited to your installation, upgrading to the X2850H won’t be a revolutionary change. On the other hand, for those looking to invest in a modern AVR, the AVC-X2850H is a logical and lasting choice in Denon’s mid-range.
