1. Introduction and Overview
The Denon AVR1612 is a 5.1-channel AV Surround Receiver designed to deliver a powerful and immersive home theater experience. It supports 3D video passthrough and high-definition audio formats such as Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD, ensuring dynamic surround sound. The receiver features a user-friendly Setup Wizard that guides you through the initial configuration process on your TV screen, simplifying speaker connections and language settings. Additionally, a front-panel USB port allows for direct playback of digital music from iPods, iPhones, iPads, or USB memory devices, providing superior sound quality.

Figure 1: Front view of the Denon AVR1612 AV Surround Receiver, including the remote control and setup microphone.
2. Key Features
- 5.1-Channel Surround Sound: Delivers a powerful and dynamic audio experience for movies, music, and games.
- HDMI 1.4a Connectivity: Features 4 HDMI inputs and 1 HDMI output, supporting 3D video passthrough and Audio Return Channel (ARC) for simplified cable management.
- HD Audio Support: Compatible with high-resolution audio formats including Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD.
- Discrete Power Amplifiers: Each channel is rated at 75 watts (20Hz-20kHz, 8 ohms, .08% THD) for clear and robust sound.
- Front USB Port: Direct digital connectivity for iPod, iPhone, iPad, and USB memory devices for convenient music playback.
- Compressed Audio Restorer: Enhances the sound quality of compressed digital music files.
- Setup Wizard with GUI Overlay: On-screen graphical user interface for easy and intuitive setup and operation.
- Automatic Room EQ: Utilizes a setup microphone to automatically calibrate speaker settings for optimal sound in your listening environment.
3. What's in the Box
Upon unpacking your Denon AVR1612, please ensure all the following items are present:
- Denon AVR1612 5.1-Channel A/V Receiver
- Remote Control
- AA Batteries (2) for the remote control
- Setup Microphone
- AM Loop Antenna
- FM Indoor Antenna
- Owner's Manual (on CD-ROM)
- Quick Start Guide
4. Setup
4.1. Initial Setup and Connections
Before connecting any components, ensure the receiver is powered off and unplugged from the wall outlet. Place the receiver in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating.
- Connect Speakers: Use appropriate speaker wire to connect your 5.1-channel speaker system (Front L/R, Center, Surround L/R, and Subwoofer) to the corresponding terminals on the rear panel of the AVR1612. Ensure correct polarity (+ to + and - to -).
- Connect Audio/Video Sources:
- HDMI Devices: Connect your Blu-ray player, game console, cable/satellite box, etc., to the HDMI INPUT ports (HDMI 1-4).
- TV Connection: Connect an HDMI cable from the HDMI OUTPUT (MONITOR) port on the receiver to an HDMI input on your TV. If your TV supports Audio Return Channel (ARC), use an ARC-compatible HDMI input on your TV.
- Analog Audio: For devices with RCA stereo outputs, connect them to the AUDIO IN ports.
- Digital Audio: For devices with optical or coaxial digital audio outputs, connect them to the DIGITAL AUDIO IN ports.
- Connect Antennas: Attach the supplied AM loop antenna and FM indoor antenna to their respective terminals for radio reception.
- Power Connection: Once all other connections are made, plug the receiver's power cord into a wall outlet.
4.2. Setup Assistant (On-Screen Guide)
The AVR1612 features an intuitive Setup Wizard that appears on your TV screen when the receiver is first turned on or when the Setup Assistant is initiated. This guide will walk you through essential settings:
- Language Selection: Choose your preferred language for the on-screen display.
- Speaker Configuration: The wizard will help you identify connected speakers and their placement.
- Automatic Room EQ (Audyssey MultEQ): Use the supplied setup microphone to automatically measure and optimize speaker levels, distances, and equalization for your specific room acoustics. Place the microphone at your primary listening position during this process.
- Source Input Assignment: Assign your connected audio/video devices to the appropriate input selections.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1. Basic Operation
- Power On/Off: Press the ON/STANDBY button on the front panel or the remote control to turn the receiver on or off.
- Source Selection: Use the SOURCE SELECT knob on the front panel or the dedicated input buttons on the remote control (e.g., CBL/SAT, Blu-ray, Game) to switch between connected devices.
- Volume Control: Adjust the master volume using the large MASTER VOLUME knob on the front panel or the VOLUME +/- buttons on the remote control.
- Tone Control: Use the BASS/TREBLE buttons on the front panel to adjust the bass and treble levels.
5.2. Audio/Video Playback
Once a source is selected, the receiver will output the audio and video signals to your connected speakers and TV. Ensure your TV is set to the correct HDMI input for the receiver.
5.3. USB and Bluetooth Playback
- USB Playback: Connect your iPod, iPhone, iPad, or USB memory device to the front USB port. Use the receiver's controls or remote to navigate and play music files.
- Bluetooth: Activate Bluetooth on your mobile device and select the Denon AVR1612 from the list of available devices to pair. Once paired, you can stream audio wirelessly to the receiver.
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the receiver. Avoid using liquid or aerosol cleaners.
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation around the receiver to prevent overheating. Do not block the ventilation slots on the top or sides.
- Firmware Updates: Periodically check the Denon website for any available firmware updates to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Denon AVR1612, try the following basic troubleshooting steps:
- No Power: Check if the power cord is securely plugged into the wall outlet and the receiver. Ensure the power outlet is functional.
- No Sound: Verify that the correct input source is selected. Check all speaker connections for proper polarity and secure fit. Ensure the volume is not muted or set too low. Confirm that your TV's audio output is correctly configured (especially if using ARC).
- No Video: Ensure the correct HDMI input is selected on both the receiver and your TV. Check all HDMI cable connections. Try a different HDMI cable if necessary.
- Remote Control Not Working: Check and replace the batteries. Ensure there are no obstructions between the remote and the receiver's IR sensor.
For more detailed troubleshooting, please refer to the comprehensive owner's manual provided on the CD-ROM or visit the official Denon support website.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 15 x 17.1 x 6.4 inches |
| Item Weight | 20.2 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Denon Electronics USA LLC |
| Item Model Number | AVR1612 |
| Batteries | 2 AAA batteries required (included) |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired |
| Controller Type | Mechanical knob |
| Special Feature | Adjustable Muting Level, Compressed Audio Restorer, Direct play |
| Compatible Devices | Game Console, Television |
| Total HDMI Ports | 5 (4 In, 1 Out) |
| Connector Type | HDMI, USB |
| Audio Output Mode | Surround |
| Surround Sound Channel Configuration | 5.1 |
| Video Encoding | H.264, H.265/HEVC |
| Power Output | 75 watts per channel (20Hz-20kHz, 8 ohms, .08% THD), 120 watts per channel (1kHz, 6 ohms) |
9. Warranty and Support
The Denon AVR1612 5.1-Channel A/V Home Theater Receiver is backed by a two-year warranty. For warranty claims, technical support, or additional product information, please visit the official Denon website or contact their customer service department. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty validation.





