September 17 - It’s been more than 10 years since Denon has offered high-end A/V separates, but it’s now back in that market with a vengeance.

At CEDIA 2007, Denon rolled out two new statement-class components: the AVP-A1HDCI A/V controller ($7000) and the matching POA-A1HDCI 10-channel amplifier ($7000) (both pictured above).

Denon’s AVP-A1HDCI (above) is a multi-source, four-zone A/V controller that offers more high-tech features and functions than most enthusiasts have even heard of.  For starters, the controller features upconversion and scaling to 1080p for all analog and digital video sources, and it provides Silicon Optix’s Realta Noise Reduction circuitry for 1080p sources.

Next, the big Denon is ready to attach to networks via built-in Ethernet and WiFi 802.11 b/g connectivity. It can support a plethora of HDMI 1.3a devices via six inputs and two outputs. To support its likely role as the system’s main command and control center, the AVP-A1HDCI carries SimplayHD, DLNA and Windows Vista certifications.

The controller also features a built-in Audyssey MultEQ XT Pro automated room and speaker equalization system. Audyssey-trained specialists can take measurements from up to 32 locations in the listening room, and then plot ultra-precise correction curves for each speaker in the system. The big Denon loads these curves into its onboard Audyssey DSP processor, and the end result is exceptionally smooth and neutral sound across multiple listening locations with the room.

What is more, Denon’s AVP-A1HDCI is presently the world’s only A/V controller certified for use with Audyssey’s spectacular new Dynamic EQ system. Dynamic EQ applies volume level-adaptive corrections that ensure that dynamics and overall tonal balance continue to sound rich and full—even when volumes are turned down.

Denon’s companion POA-A1HDCI 10-channel amp is a 150Wpc, THX Ultra2-certified bruiser that’s built like a bank vault (don’t even think of trying to lift this baby without the help of a burly buddy or two). The amp can handle 4 ohms load without complaint, and provides both balanced (XLR) and single-ended (RCA) inputs for all channels. Via a series of five rear panel-mounted switches, owners can even “bridge” pairs of channels to create super-powerful channels that put out a whopping 500 watts into four ohms!

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