Audio T Verdict
The Denon AVR-X2900H DAB is an exceptionally well-equipped AV receiver for anyone building a high-quality home cinema system without needing more than seven amplified channels.
It can power a traditional 7.2 surround system or a 5.2.2 Dolby Atmos arrangement, while its 95W-per-channel output and Denon’s 70% five-channel power guarantee provide the control and consistency required for films, television, games and music.
Three 8K-capable HDMI inputs, modern gaming support, HEOS streaming, DAB+/FM radio and a moving-magnet phono input make it a practical centre for almost every home entertainment source.
Audyssey MultEQ XT is included for straightforward room calibration, while optional Dirac Live Room Correction provides a worthwhile upgrade path for owners who want more detailed control over their speaker and room response.
Denon AVR-X2900H DAB AV Receiver
The Denon AVR-X2900H DAB is a seven-channel integrated network AV receiver designed for immersive home cinema, gaming, music streaming and conventional radio listening.
It combines Dolby Atmos and DTS:X processing with six HDMI inputs, dual HDMI outputs, HEOS multiroom streaming, DAB+/FM radio and flexible Zone 2 operation.
Its principal features include:
- Seven discrete power-amplifier channels
- 95W per channel into 8 ohms under Denon’s published two-channel conditions
- Denon 70% Power Guarantee for up to five simultaneously driven channels
- Traditional 5.1 and 7.1 surround layouts
- 5.2.2 Dolby Atmos capability
- Dolby Atmos Height Virtualisation
- DTS:X, DTS Neural:X and DTS Virtual:X
- Six rear HDMI inputs
- Three HDMI inputs with 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz support
- Two HDMI monitor outputs
- Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG and Dynamic HDR
- AMD FreeSync, VRR, ALLM and QFT gaming support
- Two subwoofer pre-amplifier outputs
- Audyssey MultEQ XT room correction
- Optional Dirac Live Room Correction
- HEOS Built-in network streaming
- AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth
- Roon Ready operation
- Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect and Qobuz Connect
- DAB, DAB+ and FM radio
- Moving-magnet phono input
- Front left and right pre-amplifier outputs
- Powered or line-level Zone 2 operation
- Backlit RC-1262 remote control
Seven Channels of Discrete Amplification
The AVR-X2900H DAB contains seven discrete power-amplifier channels.
These can be assigned to several different speaker arrangements, including:
- 2.0 or 2.1 stereo
- 3.1 front and centre-channel systems
- 5.1 surround sound
- 5.2 surround sound with two active subwoofers
- 7.1 or 7.2 surround sound
- 5.1.2 or 5.2.2 Dolby Atmos
- Five-channel cinema with bi-amplified front speakers
- Five-channel cinema with a second pair of front speakers
- Five-channel cinema with powered Zone 2 speakers
The on-screen Amp Assign menu shows which physical speaker terminals should be used for the selected configuration.
5.2.2 Dolby Atmos Capability
A 5.2.2 Dolby Atmos system combines:
- Left and right front speakers
- A centre speaker
- Left and right surround speakers
- Two height, ceiling or Dolby Atmos-enabled speakers
- One or two active subwoofers
This allows sound effects to be positioned above the listener as well as across the conventional front and surround sound field.
The height channels may use compatible:
- Front-height speakers
- Top-front ceiling speakers
- Top-middle ceiling speakers
- Front Dolby Atmos-enabled modules
- Surround Dolby Atmos-enabled modules
Traditional 7.2 Surround Sound
Listeners who prefer a conventional floor-level arrangement can configure the AVR-X2900H DAB as a 7.2-channel system.
This adds two surround-back speakers behind the listening position to a normal 5.1 arrangement.
A well-installed 7.2 system can provide:
- Smoother movement of effects behind the listener
- A more complete rear sound field
- Improved coverage across a wider seating area
- Greater separation between side and rear effects
- Better use of compatible 7.1-channel soundtracks
95W Per Channel into 8 Ohms
Denon specifies 95W per channel into 8 ohms from 20Hz to 20kHz with 0.08% total harmonic distortion when two channels are driven.
A further published rating provides 125W per channel into 6 ohms at 1kHz with 0.7% distortion when two channels are driven.
The 95W figure provides the most useful reference for normal listening because it covers the conventional audible frequency range at a comparatively low distortion level.
AV Receiver Power Ratings Need Context
The published 95W output is measured with two channels driven. It does not mean that all seven amplifier channels deliver 95W simultaneously.
Available output across a complete cinema system depends on speaker impedance, crossover settings, soundtrack content, listening level and the number of active channels.
Denon 70% Power Guarantee
The AVR-X2900H DAB carries Denon’s 70% Power Guarantee.
Denon states that the receiver can deliver more than 70% of its rated output to as many as five channels simultaneously.
This is intended to provide greater confidence when several speakers become active together during demanding soundtrack passages.
The potential benefits include:
- Clearer dialogue during busy scenes
- More consistent channel balance
- Improved control of surround effects
- Stronger musical dynamics
- Reduced compression when several channels are active
Discrete High-Current Amplifier Design
Each powered channel uses a discrete amplifier stage rather than a compact multi-channel amplifier module.
This construction is designed to provide:
- Consistent performance across all seven channels
- Good control of compatible loudspeakers
- Clear dialogue during complex scenes
- Strong transient response
- Low distortion
- Reliable operation within an immersive speaker system
New 32-Bit Digital Conversion
The AVR-X2900H DAB uses a 32-bit, eight-channel digital-to-analogue converter within its audio-processing section.
The updated digital platform is designed to improve:
- Stereo and surround imaging
- Low-level detail
- High-frequency clarity
- Low-frequency definition
- Consistency between channels
- The transition between quiet and dynamic passages
Dolby Atmos
Dolby Atmos uses object-based processing to position sound around and above the listening area.
The AVR-X2900H DAB supports physical ceiling speakers, wall-mounted height speakers and compatible Dolby Atmos-enabled modules.
Dolby Surround can also expand compatible stereo and conventional multichannel material across the installed speaker layout.
Dolby Atmos Height Virtualisation
Dolby Atmos Height Virtualisation can create a perception of overhead sound when physical height speakers cannot be installed.
It does not provide the same positional precision as correctly installed height or ceiling speakers, but it provides a useful alternative for rooms where building work is not practical.
DTS:X
DTS:X provides object-based surround reproduction without demanding one fixed speaker arrangement.
The format adapts its output to the speakers configured within the AVR-X2900H DAB.
DTS Neural:X can also distribute compatible stereo and conventional multichannel material across the installed surround and height speakers.
DTS Virtual:X
DTS Virtual:X creates a broader and more immersive presentation without requiring a complete physical surround or height-speaker installation.
It can be useful in systems where:
- Rear speakers cannot be installed
- Height speakers are not practical
- A smaller speaker layout is required
- The room is shared with normal living space
Two Subwoofer Outputs
Two RCA subwoofer outputs allow a pair of active subwoofers to be connected.
The same bass signal is sent from both outputs, so they should not be confused with the independently controlled subwoofer channels provided by larger Denon AV amplifiers.
Using two correctly positioned subwoofers can still provide:
- More even bass across several seats
- Reduced variation between listening positions
- Greater low-frequency headroom
- Lower distortion from each individual subwoofer
- Improved integration with the main speakers
The Subwoofer Connections Are Pre-Amplifier Outputs
The AVR-X2900H DAB does not power passive subwoofers.
Each output must connect to an active subwoofer with its own built-in amplifier, or to a suitable external subwoofer amplifier.
Audyssey MultEQ XT
Audyssey MultEQ XT room correction is included.
Using the supplied calibration microphone, it measures the speakers and subwoofers from several positions around the listening area.
It can then calculate adjustments for:
- Speaker distances
- Channel levels
- Crossover frequencies
- Frequency response
- Subwoofer integration
- Room-related tonal variation
Correct microphone placement is essential. The microphone should be positioned at seated ear height and moved only to the recommended measurement locations.
Audyssey Dynamic EQ
Audyssey Dynamic EQ helps preserve tonal balance, bass weight and surround involvement when listening below a soundtrack’s reference level.
This can be particularly useful for everyday television viewing and evening listening, where reference cinema levels would be inappropriate.
Audyssey Dynamic Volume
Dynamic Volume reduces large changes between quiet dialogue and loud effects.
It can be helpful for:
- Evening film viewing
- Television programmes with inconsistent levels
- Reducing sudden jumps during adverts
- Listening where other people may be sleeping
Optional Dirac Live Room Correction
The AVR-X2900H DAB can be upgraded to use Dirac Live Room Correction.
Dirac Live uses computer-based measurement and filter creation to improve the timing and frequency response of the speaker system within the room.
Potential benefits include:
- More precise stereo and surround imaging
- Improved dialogue focus
- Better tonal consistency
- Reduced influence from room reflections
- Improved bass integration
Dirac Live Is an Optional Upgrade
A Dirac Live Room Correction licence is not included with the AVR-X2900H DAB.
A compatible computer and suitable measurement microphone are also required. Keep the receiver’s firmware up to date before purchasing or installing a licence.
Two Speaker Presets
Two complete speaker presets can be stored.
This can be useful for:
- Comparing Audyssey and Dirac Live
- Maintaining separate film and music settings
- Using different crossover arrangements
- Storing alternative seating-position measurements
- Comparing different room-correction curves
Channel-Level Monitoring
Channel-Level Monitoring displays the live output activity of each speaker channel on the connected television or projector.
This provides a visual indication of which speakers are active during a film, game or music programme.
It can be particularly useful when:
- Checking Dolby Atmos activity
- Comparing surround upmixing modes
- Confirming that height speakers are operating
- Diagnosing an unexpected channel configuration
- Understanding how different soundtracks use the installed speakers
Six HDMI Inputs
Six rear HDMI inputs provide connectivity for modern home entertainment equipment.
Suitable source devices include:
- Ultra HD Blu-ray players
- Media streamers
- Satellite and cable receivers
- Current games consoles
- Gaming computers
- Video servers
HDMI inputs 4, 5 and 6 support the receiver’s highest-bandwidth 8K and 4K/120Hz video modes.
Three 8K-Capable HDMI Inputs
The three high-bandwidth HDMI inputs support:
- 8K video at up to 60Hz
- 4K video at up to 120Hz
- 1440p video at up to 120Hz
- Variable Refresh Rate
- Auto Low Latency Mode
- Quick Frame Transport
- AMD FreeSync
Certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cables are required for the highest video formats.
Two HDMI Monitor Outputs
Two HDMI outputs allow compatible displays to be connected in the main room.
This may be useful where a system includes:
- A television and projector
- Two televisions
- A main display and local preview monitor
The primary TV 1 output supports eARC and ARC.
8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz Video
The AVR-X2900H DAB supports high-resolution and high-frame-rate video for compatible films, streaming devices and games consoles.
Its video system includes:
- 8K/60Hz pass-through
- 4K/120Hz pass-through
- 1440p/120Hz pass-through
- 4K content upscaling to 8K
- HDCP 2.3 copy protection
- 3D video pass-through
- On-screen signal information
HDR Format Support
The AVR-X2900H DAB supports:
- HDR10
- HDR10+
- Dolby Vision
- Hybrid Log Gamma
- Dynamic HDR
The connected source component, HDMI cable and television or projector must also support the selected format.
Gaming Features
The receiver includes several features designed for current games consoles and compatible gaming computers:
- 4K/120Hz pass-through
- 1440p/120Hz pass-through
- Variable Refresh Rate
- Auto Low Latency Mode
- Quick Frame Transport
- AMD FreeSync
These technologies can improve motion smoothness, reduce visible tearing and minimise input delay when supported by the game, source and display.
AMD FreeSync
AMD FreeSync synchronises compatible source and display refresh rates to reduce screen tearing and visible stutter.
The gaming computer or console, game, television and HDMI connection must all support the required format.
eARC and ARC
The primary HDMI output supports enhanced Audio Return Channel and conventional ARC.
eARC allows compatible television applications and devices connected directly to the television to return high-quality audio through the same HDMI cable used for picture output.
Compatible eARC formats can include:
- Multichannel linear PCM
- Dolby TrueHD
- Dolby Atmos
- DTS-HD Master Audio
- DTS:X
DAB, DAB+ and FM Radio
The AVR-X2900H DAB includes a conventional broadcast-radio tuner alongside its internet-radio and network-streaming functions.
It supports:
- DAB digital radio
- DAB+ digital radio
- FM radio
- RDS station information
- FM direct tuning
- DAB automatic scanning
- DAB reception-strength checking
- Station presets
- Preset naming and skipping
A suitable DAB/FM antenna is required, and reception quality will depend on the building and local transmitter coverage.
HEOS Built-In
HEOS Built-in adds network music streaming and compatible multiroom playback.
The HEOS app can be used to:
- Select compatible music services
- Play music stored on a local network
- Listen to internet radio
- Control volume
- Group compatible HEOS products
- Play the same music throughout the home
- Play different music in separate rooms
- Share suitable connected sources with compatible HEOS products
Available services vary according to region, subscription and future platform support.
Spotify, TIDAL and Qobuz Connectivity
The network platform supports compatible direct-control options including:
- Spotify Connect
- TIDAL Connect
- Qobuz Connect
- TuneIn internet radio
Service availability, subscription requirements and supported features can change over time.
Roon Ready
Roon Ready operation allows compatible music to be delivered directly from a Roon system over the home network.
Roon can combine local music libraries and supported online services within one interface, with artist information, credits and connected playback zones managed through the Roon application.
A separate Roon subscription and suitable network are required.
AirPlay 2
Apple AirPlay 2 allows audio to be sent from a compatible iPhone, iPad or Mac over the home network.
AirPlay 2 can also form part of a compatible Apple multiroom system and supports suitable Siri voice-control functions.
High-Resolution Network and USB Playback
Compatible music files can be played from a network server or front USB storage device.
Supported formats include:
- FLAC
- WAV
- Apple Lossless
- MP3
- WMA
- AAC
- DSD
Compatible FLAC, WAV and Apple Lossless files can be played at up to 24-bit/192kHz, while DSD support extends to 5.6MHz.
Bluetooth Reception and Headphone Transmission
Bluetooth allows music to be played directly from a compatible phone, tablet or computer.
The AVR-X2900H DAB can also transmit the main-zone audio to one pair of compatible Bluetooth headphones or a compatible Bluetooth speaker.
Bluetooth output can operate:
- At the same time as the main speakers
- Without the main speakers
Bluetooth introduces compression and some delay, so a wired connection remains preferable where the highest sound quality or precise lip synchronisation is required.
Adjustable Bluetooth-Headphone Output
The receiver provides a separate level adjustment for connected Bluetooth headphones.
This is useful where:
- The headphones have no volume control
- The available headphone level is too low
- The headphone output is too loud
- Different headphone sensitivities need to be accommodated
The setting applies to the Bluetooth output rather than the main loudspeaker volume.
Four RCA Line Inputs
Four stereo RCA line-level inputs provide connectivity for conventional analogue source equipment.
Suitable sources may include:
- CD and SACD players
- Music streamers
- External digital-to-analogue converters
- Cassette decks
- External phono stages
Input assignments and source names can be adjusted through the setup menu.
Moving-Magnet Phono Input
A dedicated moving-magnet phono input allows a compatible turntable to be connected without a separate phono stage.
The input is intended for moving-magnet and suitably matched high-output cartridge designs.
Low-Output Moving-Coil Cartridges Need Additional Amplification
A conventional low-output moving-coil cartridge requires a compatible external phono stage or step-up device.
Cartridge output, loading and gain requirements should be confirmed before connection.
Optical and Coaxial Digital Inputs
Two optical and one coaxial S/PDIF input are provided for compatible digital sources.
They may be used with:
- CD transports
- Televisions without eARC
- Digital radio tuners
- Music streamers
- Legacy games consoles
Front USB Playback and Rear USB Power
A front-panel USB connection provides convenient playback from compatible storage devices.
A separate rear USB port can provide power to a suitable media streamer or accessory.
The Rear USB Connection Is for Power
Use the front USB port for music-file playback.
The rear connection is intended to power compatible accessories and should not be treated as a second media-playback input.
Front Headphone Output
A front-panel headphone socket provides private listening from the selected source.
Connecting wired headphones mutes the speaker and pre-amplifier outputs.
Compatibility will depend on headphone impedance, sensitivity and the required listening level.
Front Left and Right Pre-Amplifier Outputs
Dedicated front-channel pre-amplifier outputs allow an external stereo power amplifier to drive the main left and right speakers.
This can be useful where:
- The front speakers require more current
- A higher-quality stereo power amplifier is already owned
- Additional front-channel headroom is required
- The system is used extensively for two-channel music
- The internal amplifier channels need less demanding front-speaker loads
The AVR-X2900H DAB does not provide complete seven-channel pre-amplifier outputs, so it should not be treated as a full surround processor for external amplification of every channel.
Bi-Amplified Front Speakers
Two internal amplifier channels can be reassigned to the separate high-frequency and low-frequency sections of compatible front speakers within a five-channel cinema arrangement.
Remove the Loudspeaker Terminal Links
The links between the loudspeaker’s high-frequency and low-frequency terminals must be removed before separate amplifier channels are connected.
Leaving the links fitted can connect two amplifier outputs together and cause serious damage.
Front Speaker A and B
The surround-back amplifier channels can be reassigned to a second pair of front speakers.
This may be useful where:
- Two listening positions use different speaker pairs
- A separate pair of speakers is used for music
- Indoor and adjacent-room speakers need selectable operation
The electrical load presented by the selected speaker arrangement must remain suitable for the receiver.
Zone 2 Operation
A second room can play the same or a different compatible source from the main cinema room.
Zone 2 can use:
- Reassigned internal amplifier channels
- Variable stereo analogue pre-amplifier outputs
- Network and HEOS sources
- Compatible analogue sources
- DAB, DAB+ and FM radio
- Compatible optical and coaxial two-channel sources
Using internal amplification for Zone 2 reduces the number of channels available in the main room.
All Zone Stereo
All Zone Stereo can play the main source through both the main room and Zone 2.
This can be useful during parties or when the same music is wanted across two connected areas.
TV Audio Sharing
Compatible television audio can be shared with Zone 2 while the main room continues to use its original surround format.
This allows television, sport or film sound to be heard in another room without reducing the main system to conventional stereo playback.
Web-Based Control
A web interface allows compatible settings to be viewed and adjusted from a computer, tablet or phone connected to the same network.
This can be particularly useful during:
- Initial installation
- Input configuration
- Speaker setup
- Zone 2 operation
- System servicing
Backlit RC-1262 Remote Control
The supplied RC-1262 remote includes a backlight for easier operation in a darkened cinema room.
Its controls provide direct access to:
- Main and Zone 2 operation
- Input selection
- Volume and mute
- Sound modes
- Quick Select memories
- HDMI output selection
- Radio tuning
- Information and setup menus
Quick Select Plus
Four Quick Select buttons can store commonly used combinations of settings.
Saved information can include:
- Input source
- Volume level
- Sound mode
- Channel-level adjustments
- Audyssey settings
- Dirac Live filter
- Speaker preset
- HDMI output
- Radio station
Pure Direct and Stereo Playback
Pure Direct disables unnecessary processing and display circuitry where practical, providing a simplified signal path for music listening.
The receiver also provides Direct, Stereo and multichannel music modes for different sources and speaker arrangements.
Setup Assistant
The on-screen Setup Assistant guides the user through television, source, speaker and network connections.
A graphical interface provides access to amplifier assignment, room correction, HDMI, radio, network and Zone 2 settings.
The guided process is straightforward, but professional setup remains worthwhile for systems using height speakers, two subwoofers or external front-channel amplification.
AVR-X2900H DAB or AVC-X3900H?
Choose the AVR-X2900H DAB When
- Seven amplified channels are sufficient
- A 5.2.2 or 7.2 system is planned
- DAB+ and FM radio are important
- Three 8K HDMI inputs provide enough connectivity
- A compact and more affordable receiver is preferred
- The wider budget must also cover speakers and a subwoofer
Choose the AVC-X3900H When
- Nine internal amplifier channels are required
- 11.4-channel processing is important
- A 5.4.4, 7.4.2 or expanded 7.4.4 system is planned
- Four independently controlled subwoofers are required
- Audyssey MultEQ XT32 is preferred
- The room and speaker system justify the additional capability
Explore the Denon AVC-X3900H AV Amplifier for greater channel capacity, independent subwoofer control and more advanced room correction.
AVR-X2900H DAB or AVC-X4800H?
Choose the AVR-X2900H DAB When
- A 5.2.2 or 7.2 layout meets the requirements
- DAB+ radio is useful
- 95W per channel suits the speakers and room
- A smaller equipment rack is being used
- Strong performance per pound is the priority
- The overall budget must include the complete speaker system
Choose the AVC-X4800H When
- Nine internally powered channels are required
- 11.4-channel processing is needed
- 125W per channel provides useful additional headroom
- Seven 8K HDMI inputs are useful
- Japanese manufacture is important
- A larger and more demanding system is being assembled
Explore the Denon AVC-X4800H AV Amplifier for greater power, processing capacity and system flexibility.
Speaker Matching
The AVR-X2900H DAB can drive a broad range of home cinema and hi-fi loudspeakers, but correct matching remains important.
Consider:
- Nominal impedance
- Minimum impedance
- Sensitivity
- Recommended amplifier power
- Room size
- Listening distance
- Required playback level
- The number of simultaneously active channels
Denon specifies compatibility with speakers between 4 and 16 ohms, although the receiver’s impedance setting must be configured correctly when lower-impedance models are used.
Placement and Ventilation
The AVR-X2900H DAB requires a strong, rigid equipment shelf with clear ventilation around the chassis.
Install it where:
- Air can circulate freely
- The top ventilation openings remain unobstructed
- Rear cables can be connected without sharp bends
- The receiver is protected from moisture
- It is kept away from radiators and direct sunlight
- Other heat-producing equipment is not stacked directly above it
Avoid Sealed Cabinets
Seven amplifier channels generate considerable heat during use.
An enclosed installation may require forced ventilation. Inadequate airflow can trigger thermal protection and reduce long-term reliability.
Speaker and HDMI Cable Selection
Plan the cable installation before placing the receiver permanently within an equipment rack.
Use:
- Appropriately sized speaker cable for each run
- Secure terminations without exposed conductors
- Certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cables for 8K and 4K/120Hz
- Suitable screened subwoofer cables
- A suitable DAB/FM antenna connection
- Clearly labelled cables for future servicing
- Sufficient rear clearance to avoid stressing the HDMI sockets
Key Features
- Seven-channel integrated network AV receiver
- DAB, DAB+ and FM radio
- 7.1-channel audio processing
- Two same-signal subwoofer outputs
- 95W per channel into 8 ohms under published conditions
- 125W per channel into 6 ohms under published conditions
- Denon 70% Power Guarantee
- More than 70% rated output across up to five channels
- Discrete high-current amplifier construction
- 32-bit, eight-channel DAC
- 5.2.2 Dolby Atmos capability
- 7.2 surround capability
- Dolby Atmos
- Dolby Atmos Height Virtualisation
- Dolby Surround
- Dolby TrueHD
- DTS:X
- DTS Neural:X
- DTS Virtual:X
- DTS-HD Master Audio
- Audyssey MultEQ XT
- Audyssey Dynamic EQ
- Audyssey Dynamic Volume
- Optional Dirac Live Room Correction
- Two speaker presets
- Channel-Level Monitoring
- Six HDMI inputs
- Three 8K-capable HDMI inputs
- Two HDMI monitor outputs
- 8K/60Hz pass-through
- 4K/120Hz pass-through
- 1440p/120Hz pass-through
- 4K to 8K upscaling
- Dolby Vision
- HDR10+
- Hybrid Log Gamma
- Dynamic HDR
- Variable Refresh Rate
- Auto Low Latency Mode
- Quick Frame Transport
- AMD FreeSync
- eARC and ARC
- HDCP 2.3
- HEOS Built-in
- AirPlay 2
- Bluetooth reception
- Bluetooth-headphone transmission
- Adjustable Bluetooth-headphone output
- Roon Ready
- Spotify Connect
- TIDAL Connect
- Qobuz Connect
- Internet radio
- 24-bit/192kHz network audio
- DSD 5.6MHz playback
- Four stereo RCA line inputs
- Moving-magnet phono input
- Two optical digital inputs
- One coaxial digital input
- Front USB media connection
- Rear USB power connection
- Front headphone output
- Front left and right pre-amplifier outputs
- Powered and line-level Zone 2
- Front-speaker bi-amplification
- Front A and B speaker assignment
- Web-based control
- Denon AVR Remote app
- Setup Assistant
- Pure Direct playback
- Backlit RC-1262 remote control
- 434mm width
- 167mm height with antennas horizontal
- 330mm chassis depth without antennas
- 9.7kg weight
- Two-year Denon manufacturer warranty
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Denon AVR-X2900H DAB an AV receiver or AV amplifier?
It is an AV receiver because it includes a built-in DAB, DAB+ and FM radio tuner.
How many amplifier channels are built in?
Seven discrete power-amplifier channels are included.
How many channels can it process?
It supports up to 7.1-channel processing, with two subwoofer outputs carrying the same bass signal.
Can it power a 5.2.2 Dolby Atmos system?
Yes. Five floor-level speakers and two height or Dolby Atmos-enabled speakers can be powered internally.
Can it power a 7.2 system?
Yes. The height channels can instead be assigned to surround-back speakers.
Can it power a 5.2.4 system?
No. A 5.2.4 arrangement requires nine amplified speaker channels. Consider the Denon AVC-X3900H or AVC-X4800H.
How powerful is the AVR-X2900H DAB?
Denon specifies 95W per channel into 8 ohms from 20Hz to 20kHz with 0.08% distortion when two channels are driven.
Does it produce 95W through all seven channels simultaneously?
No. The published rating is measured with two channels driven. Available output depends on the speakers, soundtrack and number of active channels.
What is Denon’s 70% Power Guarantee?
Denon states that the receiver can deliver more than 70% of its rated output to as many as five channels simultaneously.
Does it support Dolby Atmos?
Yes. Dolby Atmos, Dolby Surround and Dolby Atmos Height Virtualisation are supported.
Does it support DTS:X?
Yes. DTS:X, DTS Neural:X and DTS Virtual:X are supported.
Does it support Auro-3D or IMAX Enhanced?
No. These formats are available on selected higher models in Denon’s range.
How many subwoofers can be connected?
Two active subwoofers can be connected.
Are the subwoofer outputs independent?
No. The same signal is output from both connections.
Can it power passive subwoofers?
No. The connections are line-level outputs for active subwoofers or suitable external subwoofer amplifiers.
Which room-correction system is included?
Audyssey MultEQ XT with Dynamic EQ and Dynamic Volume is included.
Is Dirac Live included?
No. Dirac Live Room Correction is supported, but the licence must be purchased separately.
Does it support Dirac Live Bass Control?
Dirac Live Bass Control is not listed as a supported upgrade for this model.
How many HDMI inputs are provided?
Six rear HDMI inputs are provided.
How many HDMI inputs support 8K?
Three inputs, HDMI 4, HDMI 5 and HDMI 6, support the highest-bandwidth 8K formats.
How many HDMI outputs are provided?
Two HDMI monitor outputs are provided.
Can a television and projector be connected together?
Yes. The two monitor outputs can be used with compatible television and projector displays.
Does it support 4K at 120Hz?
Yes, through the compatible high-bandwidth HDMI inputs with a suitable source, display and certified cable.
Does it support 8K at 60Hz?
Yes.
Does it support 1440p gaming?
Yes. Compatible 1440p signals are supported at up to 120Hz.
Does it support AMD FreeSync?
Yes, with compatible gaming hardware and displays.
Which HDR formats are supported?
HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, Hybrid Log Gamma and Dynamic HDR are supported.
Does it support eARC?
Yes. The primary HDMI output supports eARC and conventional ARC.
Does it include DAB+ radio?
Yes. DAB, DAB+ and FM radio are included.
Is a DAB/FM antenna included?
Yes. A DAB/FM indoor antenna is supplied.
Does it have built-in music streaming?
Yes. HEOS Built-in provides compatible network streaming, internet radio and multiroom playback.
Does it support AirPlay 2?
Yes.
Is it Roon compatible?
Yes. The AVR-X2900H DAB supports Roon Ready operation.
Does it support TIDAL Connect and Qobuz Connect?
Yes, subject to current service availability, subscriptions and compatible firmware.
Can it send sound to Bluetooth headphones?
Yes. Audio can be sent to one compatible pair of Bluetooth headphones, either with or without the main speakers playing.
Can the Bluetooth-headphone level be adjusted?
Yes. A separate Bluetooth-transmitter level control is provided.
Does it support high-resolution music?
Yes. Compatible network and USB files can be played at up to 24-bit/192kHz, with DSD support up to 5.6MHz.
How many analogue line inputs are provided?
Four stereo RCA line inputs are provided, together with a separate moving-magnet phono input.
Does it have a phono stage?
Yes. A moving-magnet phono input is included.
Can a moving-coil cartridge be connected directly?
A conventional low-output moving-coil cartridge requires a suitable external phono stage or step-up device.
Does it have optical and coaxial digital inputs?
Yes. Two optical and one coaxial digital input are provided.
What is the rear USB port for?
It supplies power to a compatible streaming device or accessory. Use the front USB connection for music-file playback.
Can an external power amplifier be added?
Yes. Stereo front-channel pre-amplifier outputs allow an external power amplifier to drive the front left and right speakers.
Does it have full seven-channel pre-amplifier outputs?
No. It provides front left and right pre-outs and two subwoofer outputs rather than a complete seven-channel pre-out set.
Can the front speakers be bi-amplified?
Yes, within a compatible five-channel layout. The speaker terminal links must be removed before connection.
Does it support a second room?
Yes. Zone 2 can use reassigned internal amplifier channels or stereo analogue pre-amplifier outputs.
Is the remote control backlit?
Yes. The supplied RC-1262 remote includes a backlight.
Is a calibration microphone included?
Yes. An Audyssey calibration microphone and stand are supplied.
Which finish is available?
The AVR-X2900H DAB is offered in black.
What are the dimensions?
With its antennas positioned horizontally, the receiver measures approximately 434 x 167 x 341mm (W x H x D). Additional room is required for ventilation and cable bends.
How much does it weigh?
Approximately 9.7kg.
What warranty is included?
Denon provides a two-year manufacturer warranty through an authorised retailer, subject to its full terms and proof of purchase.
Related Denon Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Denon AVR-X2900H DAB demonstrations
- Complete home cinema system planning
- 5.2.2 Dolby Atmos and 7.2 speaker-layout advice
- Audyssey MultEQ XT calibration
- Dirac Live licence and setup guidance
- Dual-subwoofer positioning and integration
- Speaker and amplifier compatibility checks
- External front-channel power-amplifier integration
- 8K television and projector connectivity
- 4K/120Hz, 1440p and AMD FreeSync gaming setup
- DAB+ and FM antenna guidance
- HEOS and network-streaming setup
- Roon Ready, TIDAL Connect and Qobuz Connect setup
- Zone 2 configuration
- HDMI, speaker and subwoofer cable selection
- Equipment-rack and ventilation guidance
- Denon manufacturer-warranty guidance
- Ongoing system and after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss speaker layouts, room correction, DAB reception, subwoofer integration, HDMI connectivity and system installation for the Denon AVR-X2900H DAB.