When the “Protection” indicator comes on the display panel of my Denon receiver, does that mean it needs to be repaired?
Most probably not. The “Protection” light comes on when the receivers current sensing and thermal monitors detect some unusual operating condition that, if left unchecked, might damage the amplifier. The sensors disconnect the amplifier from the speakers by switching the high speed output relays “off.” This can happen, for example, if theres a dead short in a speaker wire, or if youre using very low impedance loudspeakers at high volume for an extended length of time. In most cases, the circuitry will automatically reset after a few moments and the Protection indicator will go out. If the Protection indicator does not go out, or if it goes on immediately after you turn on the receiver check your loudspeaker connections to make sure no wires have inadvertently shorted. If, after checking all your connections, the Protection indicator stays lighted, you may need to “initialize the microprocessor” (see the FAQ on that topic) or take your receiver to an authorized repair center for a check
