The Denon DHT-486DV home theater system is an interesting package. Instead of the common central control unit that combines a DVD player, receiver, amplifier and signal processor, the DHT-486DV separates the DVD player (Denon model DVD-556) from the receiver (Denon model AVR-486). This essentially creates a component system, making future upgrades a painless process.

The DHT-486DV system offers 75 watts per channel into seven channels, and it has inputs dedicated to the connection of a high-resolution DVD-Audio or SACD player. There is integrated processing for Dolby Digital EX, DTS-ES and DTS 96/24, among others, plus the standard five-channel formats. The DHT-486DV has a variety of digital signal processing modes, including one that takes standard two-channel stereo and plays it from all seven speakers for a completely immersive experience. The disc player is compatible with DVD-Video, DVD-R/RW, audio CD and CD-R/RW, including those loaded with MP3, WMA and JPEG files. It will not play DVD-Audio or SACD.

The six surround satellites have a two-way design, each using a midrange driver and an effective tweeter. The center-channel speaker uses the same components as the satellites, but it adds a second midrange driver. The 8-inch subwoofer has a built-in 100-watt amplifier. The DHT-486DV is a capable home theater system, and the separate components make it even more appealing.

Pros:  Rich seven-channel sound with digital processing, component design enables easy future upgrades
Cons:  No DVD-Audio or SACD compatibility

Warranty
1 year parts and labor