Denon AVR-1312 review

Denon is a well-respected name in home cinema, but it isn’t usually one that’s associated with budget products. The AVR-1312 might just change that; it costs just £250 including VAT but still squeezes in plenty of functions.

With relatively few buttons and dials, the front of the unit looks clean and smart. As well as an oversized volume dial, four quick select buttons switch between the four HDMI inputs. There are also controls for the radio tuner and optional iPod dock, a headphone out and minijack line input, plus composite video and stereo phono inputs hidden behind a removable cover. All the buttons feel reassuringly sturdy and we liked the illuminated power button that glows green when powered on and red in standby mode.

The large LCD display shows the active input, volume level and any audio processing currently enabled, but the single-line readout isn’t ideal for changing settings. Thankfully, the amplifier can overlay an on-screen display onto a connected TV or projector for much easier setup. It’s extremely basic, but manages to keep all the important functions within reach of a few button presses.

The remote control includes all the buttons needed to control every function but manages to avoid overwhelming the user. It also has dedicated iPod buttons for the external dock, but with compatible docks starting at £50 including VAT (for the Denon ASD-11R), using a cheaper dock and the iPod’s own controls is more appealing.

The socket count around the back is reasonable, considering the low price. Four HDMI inputs should be enough for most people, with room for a Blu-ray player, set-top box, games console and digital camera. Support for HDMI 1.4 means you’ll be able to send 3D signals to a compatible TV. Two composite video inputs and a single output are useful for older devices, as is the S-Video port, which is intended for use with the optional iPod dock.

Plenty of connectors – Click on this image to enlarge it

Audio connectivity is also comprehensive for a budget amplifier; five pairs of binding post terminals and a subwoofer line out let you connect a 5.1 speaker system, and there are additional line outs for rear speakers, delivering 7.1 surround with the help of a pair of powered speakers. Three analogue audio inputs cater for older devices, but digital inputs are limited to one coaxial and one optical connection. AM and FM aerial inputs feed the built-in radio. There’s no USB or Ethernet, though, so you’ll have to make other arrangements to play media from storage devices.

After wiring up our reference speakers, we were impressed with the AVR-1312’s sound quality. As we would expect, all the major digital audio formats are supported, including Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio, so Blu-ray discs’ highest quality soundtrack will always be accessible.

Choosing an AV amplifier for less than £300 usually involves balancing compromises, but the ABR-1312’s connections and sound quality are both up to scratch. With USB sockets and network streaming facilities often built into the latest Blu-ray players and TVs, their omission here needn’t be a deterrent. Our only real reservation is that the 75W-per-channel amplifier may be insufficient for big rooms and powerful speaker sets. However, for people with modest requirements, it’s an excellent choice.