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Audio Features
Video Features
USB/iPod Functions
Convenience Features
Remote Control

Audio Features

Equal Power Amp Design: The Denon AVR-1612 is equipped with a 5 channel power amplifier rated at 75-watts (into 8-ohms, at 20-20kHz, with 0.08% THD, driving 2 channels) that reproduces high-fidelity sound in surround mode with equal quality and power for all channels, true to the original sound. The power amplifier circuit adopts a discrete-circuit configuration that achieves high-quality surround sound reproduction. To faithfully reproduce the original surround sound, each of the Denon AVR-1612's five channels are equipped with its own high-current power amp of equal power. Since these power amps also use discrete circuits configured with parts strictly selected for their contribution to high sound quality, rather than with low-cost integrated circuits (ICs), the surround sound playback is of impeccably high quality.

Minimum Signal Path Design: The simple & straight design concept has been thoroughly implemented in the signal paths to contribute to clean audio and video playback. Signal paths are as short as possible to keep signal degradation in the audio and video circuitry to a minimum.

Direct Mechanical Ground Construction: Vibration-resistant construction has been used to suppress the adverse influences of vibration on sound quality. The power transformers, a source of vibration, have been securely mounted on the high rigid bottom chassis. Direct mounting of cast-iron feet to the radiator in near proximity to each other serves to suppress mutual vibration with the power transformers and other sources of vibration.

Independent Power Supplies: The Denon AVR-1612 employs independent stable power supplies for high-quality sound and picture playback.

24-bit/192-kHz DACs: This receiver is equipped with AKM Semiconductor 24-bit/192-kHz (AK4358VQ) DACs to decode and playback high-resolution recordings with less jitter and  clearer sound.

32-Bit Processing DSP: The Denon AVR1612 is equipped with a HammerHead SHARC 32-bit DSP (ADSP21487) for powerful and highly accurate surround sound reproduction.

High-Definition Audio Support: Fully compatible with current HD audio formats, the Denon AVR-1612 A/V Receiver provides powerful, theater-quality surround sound. The Denon AVR-1612 features support for Blu-ray high-resolution audio formats, including Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio for a dynamic surround-sound listening experience. These formats play back sound with exceptional fidelity, providing a more realistic listening experience.

Surround Formats: This receiver incorporates a wide variety of surround modes to bring you maximum enjoyment from your audio and video software. The unit can be set to store the most recently selected surround mode for each input, so it is automatically activated each time the particular input is chosen. The surround modes include:

Note: Dolby Digital and DTS listening modes can only be selected if your audio source is connected to the AV receiver via a digital audio connection (HDMI, optical or coaxial). Even though the AV receiver will decode 7.1channel surround sound (via HDMI), it will only output 5.1ch surround, because it lacks Surround Back channel speaker outputs (unless you connect an addition Surround Back amplifier to the receiver's SB/FH Pre-Outs). Pro Logic IIz requires additional Front-Height speakers connected to a separate amplifier using the receiver's Surround Back/Front-Height preamp outputs.

Surround Parameters: You can adjust the following surround mode parameters:

• Dolby Pro Logic II Music Settings: While listening in the Dolby Pro Logic II Music format, there are three further enhancements you can adjust:
  • Panorama: Broadens the front stereo image to the surround speakers to provide a wraparound effect, especially effective when there is limited output from the surround channels, panorama can be turned on/off in the menu.
  • Dimension: Allows you to move the sound field forward or backward.
  • Center Width: Allows you to adjust the width of the center channel.
• Center Image: In the Neo:6 Music mode, the Center Image feature adjusts the output of the left and right channels relative to the center channel, allowing you to make the center channel more or less dominant as needed. This improves the image of the center channel, especially when the listener is off-center. Adjustment varies from 5 (nothing subtracted from the L/R channels) to 0 (L/R channel output is cut in half).
• Denon Original Surround Mode Settings: While listening in one of the Denon Original Surround Modes, there are three further enhancements you can adjust:
  • Room Size: This feature allows you to set the size of your desired acoustic environment when using specific Denon Original Surround Modes; select Small, Medium small, Medium, Medium large, or Large.
  • Effect Level: This function adjusts the effect signal level from 1 to 15 when using specific Denon Original Surround Modes.
  • Delay Time: This feature adjusts the delay time (0-300ms) to control the sound stage size
• Height Gain: Adjust the volume (Low/Mid/High) of the Front Height channels in Dolby Pro Logic IIz. 

Audyssey MultEQ: Audyssey MultEQ technology helps create an optimal acoustic profile for your home theater. Using the included setup microphone, Audyssey MultEQ measures sound levels and adjusts speaker configuration accordingly, making setup fast and easy. This room acoustic measuring and correction system analyzes (via the included microphone) the audio characteristics of your speaker system and your listening environment at up to 6 measurement points and automatically tailors the sound for top audio fidelity. You can set the Audyssey MultEQ to one of the following modes.

• Audyssey: Optimizes the crossover point, output level, delay time, and equalization of all speakers based on speaker frequency response, speaker location, and room acoustics.
• Audyssey Bypass L/R: Optimizes all speakers except front left and right.
• Audyssey Flat: Optimizes frequency response of all speakers to flat.
• Manual: Adjusts the tonal quality for each speaker individually using the manual equalizer settings; adjust from -20 to +6 dB at 63 Hz, 125 Hz, 250 Hz, 500 Hz, 1 kHz, 2 kHz, 4 kHz, 8 kHz, and 16 kHz.
• Off: Turns equalizer off.

Note: You can also setup your speaker system manually using the receiver. You can select speaker configuration and size (large/small/none), as well as subwoofer (yes/no). Set subwoofer and LFE signal range playback (LFE/LFE+Main), as well as low-pass crossover frequency (80/90/100/110/120/150/200/250Hz). Set distance (0-60') from listening position to speakers. Set the volume (+/-12dB) of the test tone to be the same when it is output from each speaker. And set the high-pass crossover frequency (40/60/80/90/100/110/120/150/200/250Hz) for each speaker.

Dynamic EQ: Audio engineers mix music and movie soundtracks at reference levels much louder than typical home listening levels. At lower volumes the human ear perceives sound differently; voices change, bass dissipates, and the surround effect becomes less enveloping. Dynamic EQ adjusts the frequency response curve based on volume to maintain consistent bass output, octave-to-octave balance, and surround impact, resulting in rich sound at any volume. You can set the Dynamic EQ to 0, 5, 10, or 15 dB.

Audyssey Dynamic Volume: Audyssey Dynamic Volume solves the problem of large variations in volume level between television programs, commercials, and between the soft and loud passages of movies. Dynamic Volume addresses the issue of commercials that are too loud and movie soundtracks with vast differences between soft and loud passages; the results are more intelligible dialogue, loud passages maintain impact, and soft whispers are heard clearly. When the volume level changes, Dynamic EQ also adjusts the frequency response to maintain sound quality. You can set the Dynamic Volume to Day (low), Evening (middle), Midnight (high), or off.

CINEMA EQ (Cinema Equalizer): The Cinema EQ function gently decreases the level of the extreme high frequencies, compensating for overly-bright sounding motion picture soundtracks. Select this function if the sound from the front speakers is too bright. This function only works in the Dolby Digital, DTS, Dolby Pro Logic (including PL II, PL IIx, PL IIz), and DTS Neo:6 modes.

Restorer: Compressed audio formats such as MP3, WMA (Windows Media Audio), and MPEG-4 AAC reduce the amount of data by eliminating signal components that are hard for the human ear to hear. The Restorer function generates the signals eliminated upon compression, restoring the sound to conditions near those of the original sound before compression. It also corrects the sense of volume of the bass to obtain richer sound with compressed audio signals. You can choose from 4 settings:

• Mode 1 (Restorer 64): Optimized mode for compressed sources with very weak highs.
• Mode 2 (Restorer 96): Apply suitable bass & treble boost for all compressed sources.
• Mode 3 (Restored HQ): Optimized mode for compressed sources with normal highs.
• Off: Does not use Restored function.

Dynamic Range Compression (DRC): Motion picture soundtracks have tremendous dynamic range (the contrast between very soft and very loud sounds). For listening late at night, or whenever the maximum sound level is lower than usual, Compressing the dynamic range allows you to hear all of the sounds in the soundtrack with reduced dynamic range. DRC works when playing program sources recorded in Dolby Digital or DTS.

Night Mode: The Night Mode optimizes sound for late night listening. This function can be set to Low, Mid, High, or Off.

Source Level: This function adjusts the playback level of the currently selected input source's audio input. Use this feature if there are differences in the input volume levels between different sources. You can correct the playback level of the audio input from -12 to +12dB.

Tone Settings: You can independently adjust the system's overall Bass and Treble settings from -6 to +6 dB. You can also fade the sound from front to rear or vice-versa.

Volume Setting: You can set a maximum volume level of 0, -10, or -20 dB to limit the receiver's total volume output. You can also specify a turn-on volume, from -80 to +18dB or Last (whatever the volume setting when the receiver was turned off).

Muting Level Adjustment: You can set the amount of attenuation for the audio muting circuit; -40dB or -20dB below current volume, or full mute (sound turned off entirely).

Assignable Digital Inputs: The AVR-1612 features an optical digital (Toslink) input and a coaxial digital input. Each input can be assigned to any of the different input sources except Tuner.

Speaker Terminals: The receiver has binding post terminals for all speaker outputs (Front L/R, Center, and Surround L/R). The binding posts can accept bare wire, pin connectors, and single banana plugs. The terminals are spaced too far apart for dual banana plugs. The collar surrounding the binding post terminals prevent the use of spade connectors.

Note: The receiver will accept speaker impedances of 6 to 16-ohm.

Surround Back/Front Height Pre-Out: The AV receiver is equipped with a pair of Surround Back/Front-Height Pre-Outs, so you can connect a secondary amplifier to power a pair Surround Back (DD+, TrueHD, DTS-HD) or Front-Height (DPL IIz) speakers for 7.1ch surround.

Headphones: When headphones are plugged into the full-size 1/4" jack on the front panel, all the speakers are automatically muted.

AM/FM Tuner: The Denon AV receiver features a built-in AM/FM tuner with 56 station auto-preset memory tuning. You can also set your presets manually. You can even label these presets. In addition, you can even directly tune in a frequency using the receiver's remote control.

Video Features

HDMI (v1.4): With four HDMI (v1.4) inputs, the AVR-1612 allows you to route multiple high-definition devices--like game consoles and Blu-ray players--to your TV. It also allows you to connect all of your devices to your TV with a single HDMI cable (via its HDMI monitor output), reducing cable clutter. The HDMI inputs are assignable to different input sources. They support HDCP copyright protection and are compatible with 3D signals, ARC, Deep Color, xvYCC technology, Auto LipSync, and HDMI control.

3D Pass-Through: With the advent of 3D media, it is important to own a receiver that recognizes 3D video signals. The AVR-1612 is able to pass through 3D signals from your Blu-ray player, ensuring that the 3D effect doesn't get lost in translation. It also recognizes signals from 3D television broadcasts. By connecting a 3D-compliant Blu-ray disc player and 3D-compliant TV to the AVR-1612, you will have a 3D home theater where you can enjoy high-definition sound and video on a level you've never experienced before.

HDMI Standby-Through: When enabling the HDMI Standby-Through function, regardless of whether the AV receiver is "on" or in "standby" both audio and video streams from an HDMI input will be output to your television, via the receiver HDMI monitor output. You can select between 2 HDMI Through functions modes.

• HDMI Input: Selects the HDMI Input (1, 2, 3, or 4) for which the HDMI Standby-Through function is enabled.
• Last: The HDMI Standby-Through function is activated on the input source selected at the time of setting the AV receiver to the "standby" mode.

ARC (Audio Return Channel): This feature allows audio to be sent from your compatible HDTV to your receiver through the same HDMI cable already being used to send audio and video to your HDTV. This eliminates the need for extra cables connected to your television.

Deep Color & x.v.Color Support: The AVR-1612 also supports Deep Color and x.v.Color content, which can display a larger color range than standard-definition schemes. The result is a more lifelike, vibrant picture

Auto LipSync: This feature automatically compensates for the timing shift between the audio and video of the receiver. If needed, the audio signal can be manually delayed to match the video signal; adjust from 0-200ms.

Analog Video Inputs: The receiver features 3 composite video inputs (2 rear/1 front) and one composite video monitor output. There is also a single S-video input. You must connect the receiver to your TV via composite video to view incoming video from the receiver's composite or S-video inputs.

Note: There are no component video inputs or outputs.

Video Select Function: You can switch the video input source on the receiver while listening to a different audio signal.

Front Panel AV Input: The front panel's Video Aux input features analog stereo RCA and composite video input.

USB/iPod Functions

USB Port: A USB memory device can be connected to the USB (type-A) port located on the front-panel, allowing you to play music files through the receiver. The USB memory device must be formatted in FAT16 or FAT32. Compatible audio formats include MP3 (32-320kbps), WMA (48-192kbps), and AAC (16-320kbps). The unit can recognize up to 2,000 folders, and 6,000 files.

Note: USB memory device will not work via a Hub.

iPod/iPhone Direct: With its built-in USB (type-A) port, the AVR-1612 supports digital music playback from an iPod or iPhone. Using a USB-to-iPod Dock cable plugged into the front-panel USB port, music can be played directly from your iPod/iPhone, bypassing the iPod/iPhone's D/A converter. The iPod/iPhone can be controlled by the receiver's remote, or you can continue to use the iPod/iPhone's clickwheel or touchscreen. Song/artist information and elapsed playing time appear on the AVR-1612's display and on the connected video monitor. Your iPod/iPhone's battery will also be charged while connected to the receiver. The AVR-1612 is "made for iPod/iPhone compatible" and supports the following iPod/iPhone models and functions via its front-panel USB port (as of Oct. 2011):

Note: Apple iPod/iPhone software updates may change functionality results. If you download a newer software version, you may need to reset the receiver and your iPod/iPhone to regain functionality. If this doesn't work, you may need to wait until a newer software update is available.

iPod/iPhone Video Dock (optional): Using an optional iPod/iPhone video dock (ASD-11R, sold separately), you can view your iPod/iPhone's video and photo through the AVR-1612 (S-video) on your connected TV (composite video). The iPod/iPhone is controlled using the receiver's remote control or buttons on the main unit.

Convenience Features

Simple Controls: With its intuitive button layout, the AVR-1612 is designed for ease of use. The front panel is smartly organized, featuring clearly labeled buttons and onboard controls for volume and source. The AVR-1612 includes one-touch Quick Selection buttons that let you instantly select frequently-used video/music sources and surround modes. Icon displays on the buttons make it easy to recognize the buttons' functions.

On-Screen GUI (Graphic User Interface): The AV receiver's on-screen display (GUI) provides quick information about your system's settings (with video overlay). You can easily make settings for your home theater system while viewing menus on the TV screen.  Simple settings are enabled with the setting menus displayed on the TV screen. When you control the sound volume, the volume level is displayed on the screen, and when you switch the input source, the name of the input source is displayed These menu displays can be output to your TV via HDMI.

Note: The on-screen display's text can be set to English or Spanish.

Setup Wizard: The receiver's on-screen Setup Wizards provides easy-to-follow setup instructions.

Rename: You can change the display name (up to 8 characters) of a selected input source.

Source Delete: If an input isn't being used, you can delete it from the display so you don't have to scroll past it when you change sources.

Screen Saver: The Screen Saver function is activated during menu display, USB, iPod, or Tuner screen display - if no operation is performed for an approximately 5-minute continuous period.

Dimmer: The receiver features 4 display settings; Bright, Dim, Dark and Off.

Sleep Timer: This function allows you to automatically set the power to standby after a predetermined amount of time has passed; set the sleep timer up to 120 minutes in 10 minute increments.

Personal Memory Plus: For each input, the receiver automatically memorizes the settings for input mode, surround mode, HDMI output mode, MultEQ, Dynamic EQ, Dynamic Volume, audio delay, etc. When the input source is switched, the settings last used for that source are automatically recalled. The surround parameters, tone control settings, and playback levels for the different output channels are memorized for each surround mode.

Protection Circuit: This is a function to prevent damage to components within the power supply when an abnormality such as an overload, excess voltage, or over-heating occurs. In this unit, the power indicator blinks and the unit enters standby mode when an abnormality occurs.

Remote Control

Wireless Remote Control: The AVR-1612 comes with an IR wireless remote control that can operate the receiver as well as other remote control capable components. It is pre-programmed with control signals for other brand products; including DVD players, Blu-ray Disc players, VCRs, TVs, cable boxes, satellite receivers, and CD players. The remote control features Glow keys so it can easily be used in the dark.

Quick Select: The front panel and main remote both have four Quick Select buttons. Each button can be programmed with a specific input source, surround mode, and volume setting for easy recall.

HDMI Control: The Denon AVR-1612 can control select external audio/video components connected via HDMI which support HDMI control. When you make an HDMI connection with a TV or player compatible with the AVR-1612's HDMI control function, you can perform the operations from the AVR-1612's remote control - Power off, Switching of audio output devices, Switching of audio input devices, Volume adjustment, and Playback functions.