I posted the reply below regarding a 3802 vs a 3803 at a couple of forums (including here.)
In addition to all the improvements over the 3802, the 3803 bests the 3300 by adding 2 more amps (along with the 6.1/7.1 decoding that brings) and it adds Dolby Pro Logic II. Worth the upgrade alone IMO. Prior to my 3802, I ran a 3300 as a pre/pro. The 3802 was a bit cleaner sounding than the 3300 and at the risk of repeating myself, I also felt that going to DPL II alone was well worth the move back then. When you add in all the advantages the 3803 brings over the 3802, I can't imagine you wouldn't be tickled pink if you upgraded...
I went from a 3802 to a 3803. I have used both as pre-pro's only...
Most of the differences were evolutionary, not revolutionary. A quick list of the 3803's improvements:
New, latest generation Analog Devices 32-bit SHARC surround processor
New, 2 DACs per channel (vs. one on the 3802) Burr-Brown branded DACs
DACs are 24bit/192MHz PCM capable
Slightly higher rated output per channel (minimal change)
Denon AL24 2 channel digital PCM processing
DTS 96/24
Ext. In Subwoofer adjustment to allow for SACD/DVD-A .1 differences vs. DD/DTS
Added ability to separately turn off the subwoofer in each individual mode (sweet!)
100MHz component video bandwidth
Video up-conversion from composite to S-video to component
No ventilation fan on the 3803 (argueably, maybe not an improvement?)
Pure Direct Mode for 2 channel
On-screen volume display for composite and S-video
Volume adjustments now to the nearest half decibel
3803 treats DPL II Cinema mode separate from DPL II Music mode. Same for DTS:Neo6
Auto Surround Mode (this is really cool!) remembers the playback mode used for the last 4 signal types on each input and plays them the same way the next time
Supports new Denon extended remote control codes for direct access to surround modes and 3 direct volume settings (these codes are NOT on the factory remote)
Up to 200ms audio delay available to allow for lipsync matching when using external video processors.
There are probably a few others I forgot but these are the main ones. For me, I like the user friendly tweaks added (separate subwoofer off, auto surround mode, DPL II flexibility, etc.) It was worth the extra to me for these reasons alone.
Did it sound better? I didn't hear a difference that I could ever be sure of.
I'd upgrade again in a heartbeat! |
