Are the Denon guys out there using all these or just the settings for the speaker distance, size and leveling for a base starting point. I thought that the in-room Eq and such were not suggested as they change the linearity or sound characteristics of the speaker?

Yes, that's the digital SPL meter that I bought after trying both it and the analog version which were owned by acquaintances. The specific number provided by the digital version is simpler than interpreting the position of a moving needle on the analog version and the digital includes additional useful measurement modes(e.g. a maximum level measurement).

Graeme, that isn't my view or apparently that of most of the users who've taken the time to set up Audyssey carefully. All speakers are affected by room characteristics, which significantly change whatever "linearity" may be measured in an anechoic chamber. The best equalization systems can reduce these room effects to some extent.

That's what I originally thought and when I got my Yamaha 4600 I played around with the YPAO or whatever it is. I couldn't switch back and forth quickly to determine if it was better or not and left it for awhile...after tinkering for awhile. Then when I had a guy over for a demo I turned all EQ and such off so the speakers were in their natural state and left it since.

Perhaps if I ever get the house to myself I will need to explore some more and learn to copy and use macros on the receiver remote. Or perhaps the harmony 880 would be easier?

I could have sworn though that I've seen lots of posts about not using the Eq's. I'll need to start searching the site.

"Audyssey Dynamic Volume automatic volume-leveling system"

I've heard some things about this feature. I'm told that this feature compresses the sound to get an even level during fluctuating sound levels and that it will cause a change in the fidelity. I believe a Denon Tech told me that's not true.

Going back to your Audyssey questions, yes they work very well in place of an SPL meter, when the system works right, but it is always a good idea to double check against the meter to ensure the program set the levels and distances correctly as there are reports of some systems not working correctly.


Audyssey Dynamic Volume automatic volume-leveling system

In case you haven't already looked here:

http://www.audyssey.com/technology/dynamicvolume.html

I find the analog meter much easier to use when calibrating my speakers, seems more accurate, and does not jump around as much as the digital.

Dynamic Volume and Dynamic EQ are not setup utilities.

I know.

Trying to do some spec comparisons between the VTF-3 MK3 and the EP350. They use some different terminology but they seem pretty close if I understand it correctly. Anyone care to explain?