Am debating about going with one of the models. I know the 2802 is last years model but it has preouts, more wattage(probably doesnt matter), and is made in Japan. Retails for about $100 more than the 1803. The 1803 has front a/v input and optical input and something called a 32 bit Melody DSP which the 2802 lacks. Think its made in China? I remember reading sometime ago there were some QC problems with the 1803 and not being that powerful.
I love my 1803 plenty powerful too... you won't hear (or feel) 10W difference... i was budget constrained, but if you want a really nice reciever go for the 2803! it can be found online for about 2/3rds the price of the 3803... i have no issues whatsoever with the 1803 though, it's not meant to be a $1200+ receiver, but it's a damn good $500 one! best of luck!
I really liked my 1803. Has the warm denon sound, but is a bit thinner than the 2802. Given the choice again, I probably would have went w/ the 2802 instead, but I was able to trade for my 1803, so it wasn't really a choice. Hope this helps
There are no quality-control issues with the 1803 that I've heard of. The one in my bedroom has been performing like a little champ. Great little box.
