Denon DBP-1611UD

Denon DBP-1611UD review

Denon's first 3D Blu-ray deck, the DBP-1611UD, looks like it could be a decent proposition for anyone with a cutting-edge 3D-capable AVR to take care of the sonic side of things. The step-up £750 DBP-2012UD (due on sale soon) has multi-channel outputs and superior construction, whilst the aging (and expensive) DBP-4010UD and flagship DVD-A1UD both lack networking and 3D fun and games. Beyond 3D, the DBP-1611UD story has several intriguing chapters, including hi-res SACD/DVD-A playback, DLNA networking and direct access to Internet features such as YouTube. I couldn't observe the results of Denon dipping its toe in the murky waters of internet video on my review sample, as the company had yet to activate the feature, but either way it probably won't rank that highly on the shopping lists of most AV enthusiasts out there; it probably makes more sense to pair the Denon with a 'Smart' TV for web functions. The deck itself is typical Denon: well-built, nicely laid out fascia, clear display window, all wrapped up in that rather dour, albeit durable black metal casing. Under the hood is a newly designed centre-drive mechanism with a separated unit structure and vibration-suppressing construction. The electronic circuits have been mounted in separate blocks to eliminate noise or interference.