Denon's multiroom-capable DRA-685 AM/FM stereo receiver is engineered to serve as the heart of a 2-channel music system while providing high-fidelity sound and composite-video switching for stereo video sources such as DVD players, digital video recorders, digital satellite systems, cable boxes, and VCRs. Delivering 100 watts per channel x 2 into 8-ohm speakers (from 20 Hz to 20 kHz with no more than .05 percent total harmonic distortion), the DRA-685 provides separates-class audio performance. High-speed, wideband, discrete power transistors provide delicacy and impact, making them well suited to high-quality analog and digital sources.

The multi-room DRA-685 receiver brings all your entertainment components together for high-fidelity sound and video. Take a closer look at the connections.

With two included remotes, controlling the DRA-685 from multiple rooms is a breeze. View larger.

The DRA-685 divides the circuits handling low- and high-level audio signals into separate blocks to minimize the signals' influences on each other. This chassis design, new to the DRA-685, is called Signal Level Divided Construction (SLDC). The resultant output signals are cleaner than before, possessing greater fidelity and clarity.

The Integral System (IS) remote controller (model RC-872) is a pre-programmed remote containing codes for other products from Denon and other manufacturers. In addition to the main remote, the DRA-685 comes with another remote (the RC-873) customized for second-zone multi-room functions. It is equipped with second-zone source selection, recalling preset radio stations, adjusting the volume, and other functions that can be controlled from a second zone.

The DRA-685's multi-source function lets you enjoy two different programs in two different rooms simultaneously via the receiver's A and B speaker outputs (with binding-post terminals for both sets) -- or by feeding the receiver's dedicated second-room preamp outputs to a set of powered speakers or a stand-alone amplifier and speakers. With such a setup, for example, you could listen to the CD player in the main room while another family member listens to the tuner in another part of the home, enjoying variable volume level adjustments via the supplied second-room remote control.

The receiver offers five stereo analog audio inputs, including a phono input for use with your turntable. (The phono input is compatible only with moving-magnet-type phono cartridges.) The back panel sports two tape outputs as well as a set of preamplifier outputs (in the event you decide to use the DRA-685 as a preamp for higher-powered amplifiers) coupled with main inputs (in case you're using the DRA-685 as an amplifier with another, upstream device serving as a preamp).

Use the receiver's IR remote input and output terminals with external remote-control equipment, including IR re-transmitters and IR remote receivers. Other useful features include a loudness function, bass/treble and balance controls, tone defeat, muting from the remote, a motor-driven rotary volume control, last-function memory, and switched AC outlets for powering other components.

What's in the Box
Receiver, two remote controls, remote batteries (two AA, two AAA), FM indoor antenna, AM loop antenna, user's manual, warranty card, and service-station list.