Denon AVR-3803 7.1 Channel AV Receiver Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Denon AVR-3803 is a high-performance 7.1 channel AV receiver designed to deliver powerful and immersive home theater audio. It features 110 watts per channel of high-current amplification across 7 channels. The receiver incorporates an advanced 32-bit SHARC processor, supporting various surround sound formats including Dolby Digital EX, DTS-ES, DTS Neo:6, and Dolby Pro Logic II. It also supports DTS 96/24 for high-resolution 5.1 soundtracks from video DVDs and Denon's Widescreen 7.1 mode for converting any surround source into a 7.1 audio experience.

Figure 1.1: Front view of the Denon AVR-3803 AV Receiver. This image shows the main display, control knobs, and input selection buttons on the front panel.

2. Safety Information

To ensure safe operation and prevent damage, please observe the following precautions:

• Electrical Shock Hazard: Do not open the receiver casing. There are no user-serviceable parts inside. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
• Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit. Do not block ventilation openings. Maintain a minimum clearance of 10 cm (4 inches) around the top and sides of the receiver.
• Moisture: Do not expose the receiver to rain or moisture. Do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the apparatus.
• Heat Sources: Keep the receiver away from direct sunlight, radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other heat-producing apparatus.
• Power Cord: Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
• Cleaning: Unplug the receiver from the wall outlet before cleaning. Use a dry cloth for cleaning.

Figure 2.1: Close-up of the rear panel showing the caution label regarding electrical shock hazard.

3. Setup

3.1 Unpacking and Placement

Carefully remove the receiver from its packaging. Retain the packaging materials for future transport or storage. Place the receiver on a stable, level surface with adequate space for ventilation. Avoid placing it in an enclosed cabinet without proper airflow.

3.2 Connecting Speakers

The AVR-3803 supports a 7.1 channel speaker configuration. Connect your speakers to the corresponding terminals on the rear panel. Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and - to -) for all speakers. For optimal sound, use high-quality speaker cables.

• Front Speakers (L/R): Connect to the FRONT terminals.
• Center Speaker: Connect to the CENTER terminal.
• Surround Speakers (L/R): Connect to the SURROUND terminals.
• Surround Back Speakers (L/R) or Zone 2: Connect to the SURROUND BACK/ZONE 2 terminals.
• Subwoofer: Connect to the PRE OUT SUBWOOFER terminal using an RCA cable.

3.3 Connecting Audio/Video Components

Connect your audio and video sources (e.g., DVD player, VCR, TV, cable box, game console) to the appropriate input jacks on the rear panel. Use high-quality cables for optimal performance.

• DVD Player: Use component video (YPbPr) or S-Video/Composite video inputs, and digital audio (optical or coaxial) or analog audio inputs.
• VCR/DVR: Use composite video and analog audio inputs for VCR-1 or VCR-2.
• TV: Connect the video output from the receiver to your TV's video input.
• Other Audio Sources (CD, Tuner, etc.): Use analog audio inputs.

Figure 3.1: Full rear panel of the Denon AVR-3803, illustrating all input and output connections for speakers and audio/video components.

3.4 Antenna Connections

Connect the supplied AM loop antenna and FM wire antenna to their respective terminals on the rear panel for radio reception.

3.5 Power Connection

Once all audio/video and speaker connections are made, plug the receiver's power cord into a suitable AC wall outlet (120V ~ 60Hz). The receiver also features switched and unswitched AC outlets for connecting other components, ensuring total power consumption does not exceed the specified limits.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Basic Operation

• Power On/Off: Press the POWER button on the front panel or the remote control to turn the unit on or off.
• Volume Control: Use the MASTER VOLUME knob on the front panel or the VOLUME +/- buttons on the remote control to adjust the sound level.
• Input Selection: Use the INPUT SELECTOR knob or the dedicated input buttons (e.g., DVD, VCR, TV) on the front panel or remote control to choose your desired audio/video source.

4.2 Surround Sound Modes

The AVR-3803 offers a variety of surround sound modes to enhance your listening experience:

• Dolby Digital EX: Expands 5.1 channel Dolby Digital soundtracks to 6.1 or 7.1 channels.
• DTS-ES: Expands 5.1 channel DTS soundtracks to 6.1 or 7.1 channels.
• DTS Neo:6: Converts 2-channel stereo sources into 5.1 or 6.1 channel surround sound.
• Dolby Pro Logic II: Converts 2-channel stereo sources into 5.1 channel surround sound for movies or music.
• DTS 96/24: Decodes high-resolution 5.1 channel audio from compatible DVD discs.
• Widescreen 7.1: Denon's proprietary mode to create a 7.1 channel experience from various surround sources.

Use the MODE or SURROUND buttons on the remote control or front panel to cycle through available sound modes.

4.3 Audio Adjustments and Streaming

• Equalizer: The receiver features an equalizer for fine-tuning audio output. Refer to the on-screen display or front panel menu for adjustment options.
• High-Resolution Audio: The AVR-3803 supports high-resolution audio formats like WAV and FLAC for pure sound reproduction. Ensure your source device is capable of outputting these formats.
• Music Streaming: Utilize the built-in TuneIn radio tuner for internet radio. Compatibility with popular music streaming services like Pandora and Spotify allows for versatile music playback.
• Smartphone Control: For seamless control of your music library and playback, download and use the Denon AVR remote application on your smartphone.

5. Maintenance

• Cleaning the Unit: Disconnect the power cord before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior surfaces. Do not use abrasive cleaners, waxes, or solvents.
• Ventilation: Periodically check that the ventilation openings are not obstructed by dust or debris.
• Storage: If storing the unit for an extended period, disconnect the power cord and store it in a cool, dry place, preferably in its original packaging.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Denon AVR-3803, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

Denon provides a limited warranty for its products. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Denon website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Customer Support

For technical assistance, service, or inquiries, please contact Denon customer support. Contact information for USA and Canada is provided below:

Figure 8.1: Denon contact information for warranty and support in USA and Canada. This image lists addresses and phone numbers for Denon Electronics (USA), United Radio Audio, Pyramid Audio, Electro Services, Inner Sound, and Denon Canada.

You can also visit the official Denon website for the latest support resources and FAQs: www.denon.com