Denon & Marantz Set to Offer Auro-3D Audio

Both companies will be offering firmware upgrades for the new audio format. 

Denon and Marantz have announced that they will be providing downloadable updates for select AV components that will add support for the Auro-3D audio format. The upgradeable devices will include the Denon X4100W ($1,299), Denon X5200 ($1,999), Marantz SR7009 ($1,999), and the Marantz AV7702 ($1,999). Each component also currently offers Dolby Atmos support.

Auro-3D is a surround sound format that aims to create a three dimensional soundfield by adding height and top layers to a traditional ear-level speakers setup. The format uses standard 5.1 and 7.1 speaker configurations as a base and then users can add height speakers above their corner speakers at around 30 degrees. Likewise, if space permits, Auro-3D also supports ceiling-mounted speakers. Auro-3D audio can be mixed into standard surround sound PCM tracks on Blu-ray discs, and with the upcoming firmware upgrade, the Denon and Marantz receivers will be able to decode the extra height audio information.  

The Auro-3D firmware upgrade for Denon and Marantz components is expected to be available in December. Customers will be required to pay an update fee for the download, but pricing has not been announced yet.

Sources: Auro-3D, AVForums

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