Denon AVR-985 - User Manual

Questions and Answers

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Megan TorresAug 17, 2025
What to do if my Denon Receiver display is lit but no sound is produced?
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  Diane SmithAug 17, 2025
  If the display is lit but you're not getting any sound from your Denon Receiver, here are a few things to check: * Ensure the speaker cords are securely connected. * Verify the audio function button is set to a suitable position. * Make sure the volume isn't set to the minimum; turn it up. * Check if MUTING is on and switch it off. * If you've selected a digital input, ensure digital signals are actually being input or select the correct input jacks.
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Shawn WatsonAug 19, 2025
What to do if my Denon Receiver remote control is not working properly?
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  Brian HenryAug 20, 2025
  If your Denon Receiver isn't responding to the remote control, try these steps: 1. Replace the batteries with new ones. 2. Move closer to the unit. 3. Remove any obstacles between the remote and the receiver. 4. Ensure you're pressing the correct button. 5. Verify the batteries are inserted correctly, with the < and > ends properly aligned.
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Julie JonesAug 23, 2025
How to fix a Denon Receiver when the display is not lit and there is no sound?
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  Carol MendezAug 23, 2025
  If the display is not lit and no sound is produced when the power switch is on for your Denon Receiver, check that the power cord is securely plugged in. Also, after turning the POWER switch on, try turning the power on with the remote control.
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Andres GrantAug 26, 2025
How to fix humming noise from Denon Receiver when Record is playing?
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  wharveyAug 26, 2025
  If you're hearing a humming noise when playing a record on your Denon Receiver, make sure the turntable's ground wire is properly connected. Also, check the PHONO jack connection to ensure it's secure. If the issue persists and you have a TV or radio transmission antenna nearby, contact your store of purchase.
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mmedinaAug 28, 2025
What causes distorted sound on my Denon AVR-985 Receiver?
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  zharrisAug 28, 2025
  If the sound is distorted on your Denon Receiver, consider the following: * The stylus pressure might be too weak; apply the proper pressure. * There might be dust or dirt on the stylus; check and clean it. * The cartridge could be defective; consider replacing it.
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patrickhoganAug 31, 2025
What causes howling noise from Denon Receiver when volume is high?
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  melissaruizAug 31, 2025
  If you're experiencing a howling noise when the volume is high on your Denon Receiver, it could be because the turntable and speaker systems are too close together; try separating them as much as possible. Also, if the floor is unstable and vibrates easily, use cushions to absorb speaker vibrations. If your turntable lacks insulators, consider using audio insulators.
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Ronald WatsonSep 2, 2025
How do I fix the on screen display not showing on my Denon AVR-985?
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  Bryce GriffinSep 2, 2025
  If the on-screen display is not showing on your Denon Receiver, check the system setup menu. Ensure that the “on screen display” setting is turned on.
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Anthony KimSep 5, 2025
Why is the volume weak on my Denon Receiver?
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  Deanna ScottSep 5, 2025
  If the volume is weak on your Denon Receiver, and you're using an MC cartridge, replace it with an MM cartridge or use a head amplifier or step-up transformer.
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Justin PierceSep 8, 2025
Why is my Denon AVR-985 Receiver display not lit and the power indicator flashing rapidly?
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  carrollmarkSep 8, 2025
  If the display isn't lit and the power indicator is flashing rapidly on your Denon Receiver, it could be due to a couple of reasons: * Speaker terminals may be short-circuited. To resolve this, switch the power off, properly connect the speakers, and then switch the power back on. * The ventilation holes might be blocked, or the unit is operating at continuous high power with inadequate ventilation. Turn off the power, ensure the unit is well-ventilated to cool it down, and then turn the power back on.
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Tina HoweSep 12, 2025
Why is sound only coming from one channel on my Denon AVR-985?
- I
  Isabella ParrishSep 12, 2025
  If sound is only coming from one channel on your Denon Receiver, it's likely due to incomplete connections. Check and securely connect both the speaker cords and the input/output cords.

Summary

Safety Precautions

Cautions on Installation

Guidelines and warnings for safely installing the AV receiver to prevent interference and ensure proper function.

Cautions on Handling

Instructions for safely handling the unit, including power connections and muting circuits, to prevent damage or hazards.

Features

Dolby Digital

Explanation of Dolby Digital technology for 5.1 channel surround sound, used in DVD and digital TV broadcasts.

DTS (Digital Theater Systems)

Description of DTS surround sound format, providing 5.1 channel high fidelity audio from sources like laser disc and DVD.

Connections

Connecting the audio components

Detailed instructions for connecting various audio sources like CD players and turntables to the receiver.

Connecting the video components

Guidance on connecting video sources such as TV, DVD players, and video decks using composite, S-Video, and component connections.

Part Names and Functions

Front Panel

Identification and explanation of buttons and jacks on the front panel of the AV receiver.

Display

Explanation of the indicators and information displayed on the receiver's screen during operation.

Setting Up the System

Auto Setup;Room EQ

Procedure for automatic speaker system analysis and acoustic room measurement for optimal sound settings.

Speaker Setup

Configuration of speaker types, sizes, and distances for accurate surround sound playback.

Input Setup

Assignment of digital input jacks, subwoofer levels, component video, and auto tuner presets for various sources.

Remote Control Unit

Inserting the batteries

Instructions for correctly inserting batteries into the remote control unit for proper operation.

Learning function

Procedure to program the remote control to operate other AV components by learning their signals.

Operation

Before operating

Preliminary checks and steps required before operating the AV receiver, including connections and power.

Playing the input source

How to select and play audio and video sources using different input modes like AUTO, PCM, DTS, and ANALOG.

Multi Zone

Multi-zone playback with multi-source

Enabling simultaneous playback of different sources in multiple rooms using ZONE2 outputs.

Surround

Before playing with the surround function

Steps to adjust playback levels using test tones for optimal surround sound performance.

Dolby Pro Logic IIx (Pro Logic II) mode

Explanation of how to use Dolby Pro Logic IIx modes for enhanced surround sound from stereo sources.

DSP Surround Simulation

Surround modes and their features

Overview of available DSP surround modes like WIDE SCREEN, ROCK ARENA, and their intended use.

Room EQ; Tone control setting

Adjusting room equalization and tone controls for bass, treble, and EQ curves to personalize sound.

Listening to the Radio

Auto tuning

Procedure for automatically searching and tuning FM/AM radio stations for listening.

Preset memory

Instructions for storing and recalling radio stations in the receiver's memory for quick access.

Troubleshooting

Additional Information

Optimum surround sound for different sources

Guidance on selecting surround modes based on source types like movies, music, and games for best audio experience.

Surround back speakers

Explanation of surround back speaker setup and placement for enhanced 6.1-channel and 7.1-channel audio.

Specifications

Denon AVR-985 Specifications

General

Type	AV Receiver
Audio Channels	7.1
Amplifier Type	Discrete
Input Sensitivity/Impedance	200 mV / 47 k ohms
Component Video Inputs	3
Digital Audio Inputs (Coaxial)	2
Frequency Response	10Hz - 100kHz
HDMI Inputs/Outputs	1 out
Surround Sound Formats	Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital EX, DTS, DTS-ES, Dolby Pro Logic IIx
Video Inputs/Outputs	S-Video: 4 in / 2 out
Power Output	110 watts per channel (8 ohms, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 0.08% THD, 2 channels driven)
Dimensions (W x H x D)	17.1 x 5.9 x 16.3 inches (434 x 151 x 416 mm)