All -

I'm pretty sure the answer to this is no, but I'd like to set up a 7.1 system in my main room with 2 powered speakers in zone 2. I know that the receiver can't do all 9 speakers at the same time, but some other receivers I've had would automatically convert from 7.1 to 5.1 whenever the Zone 2 speakers were engaged (like an A/B switch).

Can the A& B surrounds be used in any way to do this? (Just as an aside, I was surprised to see that the Denon allows you to put in 4 side surrounds... for a total of 9 speakers with the back 2 + front 3 + 4 side surrounds)

Is an A/B type setup possible with this receiver, or once you have 7.1 is the only option to run pre-outs to Zone 2 for sound?

Thanks.

Jason

Second question, while I'm on a roll... the power plug on my 3808 seems very loose. When rolling the rack out a lot of times it pops out, and there is plenty of slack in the cord. Is this normal, maybe for protection so it doesn't get yanked out of your rack? Has anyone else noticed how loose it is?

Thanks.

Nope, mine fits snug in the recept.

Ok, I'll just ram it in there then and hope for the best.

On the Zone 2 question... is the answer a no?

Sometimes it's best to contextualize a response.

For the Zone 2, I believe it will do like you say but I would need to double check the manual and I don't really want to get a headache before I go to work.

Ah, the incredibly cryptic Denon manuals! I'm very glad the new GUI is pretty intuitive, because the manual stinks. Nothing new there, though.

HAHAHAHAHA!!!!!

No, Jason, the Denon A & B surround option can't be used with main speakers in an other zone. That A & B option sends side surround material to both sets of speakers, and can accommodate, for example, someone who'd like to switch between monopolar and multipolar surround speakers on different types of material. You, of course, want front speaker, not surround, sound in the other room.

Thanks for confirming John, a second receiver it is! (at some point)