Denon AVR-1913

Performance

All-around excellence. The richness and clarity of the Denon AVR-1913's audio is as good as it gets for a mainstream receiver, especially if you use the included Audyssey EQ speaker calibration microphone to get the sound set up just right for your room. The receiver also includes analog-to-digital video processing and 1080p upconversion.

Features

This is one stacked receiver. The Denon AVR-1913 can take advantage of the Dolby ProLogic IIz feature, and it also includes second-zone audio capabilities. Apple devices can stream music to the receiver via AirPlay or a front-side USB connection, and the receiver offers DLNA, satellite radio, Internet radio and streaming music service, though its list of choices is limited compared to the competition.

The Denon AVR-1913 has it all -- except for Wi-Fi capabilities. Denon doesn't even offer an optional Wi-Fi dongle to add wireless Internet via an accessory.

Design

Great build, average connections. The Denon AVR-1913 earns praise for its solid build and button-light remote control. The receiver sports six HDMI inputs, but the rest of the connections don't match up to the port selection provided by the competition. They should still be enough for most users.

One possible issue is heat dissipation: Several Amazon.com users report that the Denon AVR-1913 is prone to shutting down due to overheating.

Ease of use

Bland, but in a good way. The user interface is plain and mostly text-based, but it's easy to navigate and a cinch to use. The remote control is similarly basic, yet useful.

Value

Not a great value. The Denon AVR-1913 is one of the best mainstream receivers available, but the lack of Wi-Fi and a high sticker price call its value into question.

The Bottom Line

There's no question that the Denon AVR-1913 is a top-notch home theater receiver, but overheating concerns and a high price combine with the lack of Wi-Fi to make it a less appealing option than some other choices. We suggest the Sony STR-DN1030 (*Est. $500) as an alternative.