Denon has long been a respected name in the audio world, known for delivering quality components that balance features, performance, and value. Sitting comfortably in the middle of their popular X-series lineup, the AVR-X2800H aims to be the heart of a modern home entertainment system. Replacing the highly-regarded AVR-X2700H, this 7.2-channel AV receiver packs in support for the latest audio and video formats, including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and crucial HDMI 2.1 features for 8K video and next-gen gaming.

But does it live up to the hype and its What Hi-Fi? award-winning status? Let’s dive in.

Design and Build: Familiar Territory

If you’ve seen a Denon receiver in the last few years, the AVR-X2800H will look instantly familiar. Denon sticks to its tried-and-tested design: a clean, somewhat boxy black brushed-metal chassis with two large knobs flanking a central display. While not exactly pushing design boundaries, the build quality feels solid and robust, as expected from Denon.

The front panel keeps things simple with the display, essential controls, and a convenient USB port. Around the back, you’ll find a well-organized and clearly labeled array of inputs and outputs, color-coded for easier speaker setup.

Features Packed In

This receiver is clearly aimed at users building a capable, modern home theater without necessarily needing the absolute highest channel count or power output.

  • Channels & Power: It’s a 7.2-channel receiver, officially rated at 95 Watts per channel (into 8 ohms, 2 channels driven, 20Hz-20kHz, 0.08% THD). This is ample power for driving most speaker systems in small to medium-sized rooms, perfect for a standard 7.1 setup or, more likely, a 5.1.2 Dolby Atmos/DTS:X configuration.
  • Immersive Audio: Full support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X is onboard. For those without dedicated height speakers, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual:X aim to simulate overhead effects. Dolby Surround and DTS Neural:X upmixers are also included to enhance legacy content.
  • Video Prowess (HDMI 2.1): This is a key upgrade area. The AVR-X2800H features 6 HDMI inputs and 2 outputs. Crucially, three of the inputs and both outputs support HDMI 2.1 features like 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through – essential for compatibility with the latest TVs, projectors, and gaming consoles (PS5, Xbox Series X). It also supports the latest HDR formats including HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG, and Dynamic HDR, along with gaming-specific features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) for smoother, lag-free gaming. Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) is supported on one output for simplified connection to your TV.
  • Connectivity & Streaming: Beyond HDMI, you get a good range of connections: 2 optical inputs, 4 analog inputs (including a Phono input for turntable lovers!), pre-outs for two subwoofers and Zone 2, Ethernet, built-in Wi-Fi (2.4/5GHz), and Bluetooth. Wireless streaming is handled by Denon’s HEOS platform (accessing Spotify, Tidal, Amazon Music HD, Deezer, TuneIn, etc.), Apple AirPlay 2, and it’s Roon Tested.
  • Room Correction: Denon includes Audyssey MultEQ XT for automatic speaker setup and room calibration using the supplied microphone. This system measures your room’s acoustics and adjusts the receiver’s output for optimal performance in your specific space.

Performance: Sound and Vision

The AVR-X2800H delivers the kind of authoritative, yet refined sound Denon is known for. Compared to its predecessor (AVR-X2700H), reviews suggest the X2800H offers a more open, spacious, and detailed soundstage.

  • Movies: It excels at creating immersive surround sound fields. Effects are placed accurately, and dialogue clarity is frequently praised, ensuring you don’t miss crucial lines even in busy action sequences. While still possessing Denon’s characteristic warmth, some find the bass slightly less dominant than previous models, leading to a more balanced and perhaps less congested sound during complex scenes. The separation between different sonic elements is good, contributing to a coherent and dramatic presentation.
  • Music: The improved timing and slightly leaner profile compared to its predecessor reportedly make the X2800H a more musical performer. It handles stereo and multi-channel music well, delivering clear vocals and good instrumental definition. High-resolution audio streaming via HEOS is a definite plus over standard Bluetooth.
  • Video: The receiver handles 8K and 4K high-frame-rate signals flawlessly via its designated ports, passing through HDR signals without issue. The GUI overlay works well, and video upscaling capabilities (up to 8K) are included.

Setup and Usability

Denon generally makes setup straightforward. The award-winning on-screen Setup Assistant guides users through connections and initial configuration step-by-step. The Audyssey calibration process is automated, though some enthusiasts may prefer to fine-tune settings manually or via the optional (paid) Audyssey MultEQ Editor app for more control.

The on-screen graphical user interface (GUI) has been updated to HD resolution, making it clear and user-friendly. While the core functionality of the HEOS app for streaming and multi-room control is robust, some users find its interface a bit dated or “clumsy” compared to competing platforms.

Pros:

  • Excellent, spacious, and detailed sound quality.
  • Strong support for immersive audio formats (Dolby Atmos, DTS:X).
  • Comprehensive HDMI 2.1 support (3 inputs/2 outputs with 8K/60, 4K/120, VRR, ALLM).
  • Supports major HDR formats (HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG).
  • Easy setup process with helpful on-screen guide.
  • User-friendly high-definition GUI.
  • HEOS multi-room streaming built-in.
  • Includes Audyssey MultEQ XT room correction.
  • Phono input for vinyl enthusiasts.

Cons:

  • Design hasn’t changed significantly from previous models.
  • HEOS app interface could be more polished.
  • Audyssey MultEQ XT isn’t the top-tier XT32 version found in higher-end models.
  • Some might prefer slightly more bass weight (subjective).
  • Dual subwoofer outputs are linked, not independently adjustable by Audyssey.

Verdict

The Denon AVR-X2800H is a formidable mid-range AV receiver that successfully balances a rich feature set with compelling performance. It delivers an immersive and refined audio experience for both movies and music, and its robust HDMI 2.1 implementation makes it future-proof for gamers and those investing in 8K displays.

While the design is conservative and the HEOS app isn’t perfect, these are minor points against an otherwise excellent package. It provides a significant step up from entry-level models, offering tangible improvements in sound quality, connectivity, and features.

Who is it for? The Denon AVR-X2800H is ideal for home theater enthusiasts building a quality 5.1.2 or 7.1 system in a medium-sized room. It’s a great choice for gamers wanting 4K/120Hz support, and anyone looking for seamless integration of streaming and multi-room audio via HEOS. If you want modern features and engaging sound without stepping up to the significantly higher cost (and potentially unnecessary complexity) of 9 or 11-channel receivers, the AVR-X2800H hits a definite sweet spot and represents solid value in the current market.