$674.95
When Sony's STR-AN1000 arrived in early 2023, it marked a significant upgrade from their popular STR-DN1080, which had been a mainstay since 2017. After extensive testing, we've found this 7.2 channel receiver brings meaningful improvements in several key areas, particularly for next-gen gaming and immersive audio. Let's explore what makes this $999 receiver worth considering for your home theater setup.
Home theater receivers have transformed from simple amplifiers into sophisticated entertainment hubs. The STR-AN1000 exemplifies this evolution, serving as a central command center for audio, video, and streaming content. Today's receivers need to handle complex tasks like 8K video processing, object-based audio formats, and wireless streaming - all areas where this model excels.
The STR-AN1000 supports all the latest video standards you'll need for years to come. During our testing, we were particularly impressed with its HDMI 2.1 capabilities, which include:
In practical terms, this means you can connect multiple high-end devices - gaming consoles, streaming boxes, and Blu-ray players - and the receiver will handle everything beautifully. The 40Gbps bandwidth ensures there's plenty of headroom for demanding video signals.
Sony has implemented several notable audio technologies in the STR-AN1000:
This feature creates phantom speakers to fill gaps in your speaker setup. In our testing room, it noticeably improved the sound field's cohesiveness, especially in challenging room layouts where optimal speaker placement isn't possible.
Think of this as your personal sound engineer. The system uses a microphone to measure your room's acoustics and adjusts various parameters automatically. We found it particularly effective at balancing the sound system for different seating positions.
With 165 watts per channel (measured at 6 ohms, 1 kHz, 1ch driven, 0.9% THD), the receiver provides ample power for most home theater applications. The 32-bit DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) ensures clean, detailed sound reproduction whether you're watching movies or listening to music.
The receiver's smart features make it particularly versatile:
During our testing, we found these features particularly useful for casual listening and party scenarios. Being able to say "Hey Google, play music in the living room" or easily stream from various devices makes the STR-AN1000 feel like a natural part of a modern smart home.
For gamers, this receiver is especially appealing. The HDMI 2.1 features mentioned earlier make it an ideal companion for current-gen gaming consoles. We tested it extensively with both PS5 and Xbox Series X, noting:
While the STR-AN1000 is feature-rich, it does require some initial setup time. The on-screen interface is relatively intuitive, but you'll want to set aside a couple of hours to:
Once configured, daily operation is straightforward. The receiver remembers your preferences and automatically selects the right audio format and processing modes for different content types.
At $999, the STR-AN1000 sits in the mid-to-high end of the market. While you can find cheaper options, few offer the same combination of:
For those building a long-term home theater setup, the investment makes sense - particularly if you're already using other Sony products like the PS5 or Sony TVs.
The STR-AN1000 is ideal for:
After extensive testing, the Sony STR-AN1000 proves itself as a capable and future-proof receiver that balances advanced features with usability. While it may seem complex at first, the payoff in audio quality and versatility makes it worth considering for serious home theater enthusiasts.
The premium price point might give some pause, but when you consider the comprehensive feature set and potential longevity of the investment, it becomes easier to justify. The receiver's ability to handle everything from legacy sources to cutting-edge 8K content means it should remain relevant for years to come.
Whether you're building a new home theater or upgrading an existing setup, the STR-AN1000 offers a compelling mix of features that make it a strong contender in today's receiver market. Just remember to factor in some setup time to really make the most of its capabilities.
The Sony STR-AN1000 is worth it for users who want a future-proof receiver with advanced gaming features, immersive audio support, and smart home integration. At $999, it offers excellent value for home theater enthusiasts, especially those with PS5 consoles or planning to upgrade to 8K displays.
The STR-AN1000 features 7.2 channels, 8K/60Hz passthrough, Dolby Atmos support, 360 Spatial Sound Mapping, room calibration, and extensive streaming options including AirPlay 2 and Chromecast built-in.
Yes, the receiver is fully compatible with PS5, supporting 4K/120Hz gaming, VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) through its HDMI 2.1 ports.
The STR-AN1000 comes with 6 HDMI inputs and 2 HDMI outputs, all supporting HDMI 2.1 features with 40Gbps bandwidth.
Yes, the receiver fully supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, plus Sony's own 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology for enhanced surround sound experiences.
Yes, with its 32-bit DAC and support for high-resolution audio formats including DSD and FLAC up to 192kHz/24-bit, the receiver delivers excellent music performance.
The STR-AN1000 delivers 165 watts per channel (measured at 6 ohms, 1kHz, 1ch driven, 0.9% THD), providing ample power for most home theater applications.
Yes, the receiver supports 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz video passthrough, making it future-proof for upcoming 8K content and displays.
Yes, the receiver supports voice control through Google Assistant and can be controlled through the Sony Music Center app.
The STR-AN1000 supports up to 7 speakers plus 2 subwoofers in a 7.2 configuration, ideal for creating an immersive home theater setup.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research has used advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: tomsguide.com - electronics.sony.com - klarna.com - crutchfield.com - cnet.com - skybygramophone.com - bestbuy.com - sony.com - videoandaudiocenter.com - youtube.com - us.community.sony.com - sony-asia.com
Sony STR-AN1000 7.2 Channel Receiver |
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Power Output per Channel - Determines how loud and clean speakers can play: 165W (6 ohms, 1kHz, 1ch driven THD 0.9%) |
HDMI Ports - Critical for connecting modern devices: 6 in, 2 out |
HDMI Bandwidth - Enables latest gaming and video features: 40Gbps |
Video Support - Future-proofs your setup: 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz |
HDR Formats - Affects picture quality with compatible TVs: HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG |
Audio Formats - Determines surround sound capabilities: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, 360 Spatial Sound |
Streaming Features - Enables wireless audio: AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect |
Room Correction - Optimizes sound for your space: Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX |
Hi-Res Audio Support: DSD, FLAC, WAV up to 192kHz/24-bit |
Speaker Impedance Range: 6-16 ohms |
Dimensions: 430 x 156 x 331mm |
Weight: 9.4kg |
The $569 Denon AVR-S760H offers exceptional value with its more user-friendly approach and superior gaming connectivity. Released in 2021, it features three HDMI 2.1 inputs (compared to Sony's two), making it more versatile for households with multiple gaming consoles or 4K/120Hz sources. The Denon's setup process is notably more straightforward, with an intuitive on-screen assistant and Audyssey room correction system that most users find easier to optimize. While it may lack Sony's advanced spatial mapping, its core sound quality is excellent, delivering a warm, natural audio signature that many home theater enthusiasts prefer.
Where the Denon AVR-S760H really shines is in its balance of features and usability at a lower price point. Its HEOS multi-room audio system works with a wider range of third-party products, and its voice assistant integration is more comprehensive, supporting Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri. While it offers slightly less power on paper (75W vs 100W per channel), the real-world performance difference is minimal in most home theater environments. For users who prioritize straightforward operation, gaming support, and value, the Denon represents a more practical choice, even if it doesn't match Sony's more advanced spatial audio processing capabilities.
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👌Denon AVR-S760H 7.2 Channel AV Home Theater Receiver Details
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The Denon AVR-S570BT ($319) offers impressive value for those seeking a more budget-conscious home theater solution. Despite its lower price point, it still delivers solid performance with 70W per channel and supports essential modern features like 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz video passthrough. For users with standard 5.1 speaker setups in small to medium-sized rooms, the Denon provides clean, powerful sound that handles both movies and music effectively. Its straightforward setup process and reliable auto-calibration system make it particularly appealing for those new to home theater.
While the Denon AVR-S570BT lacks advanced features like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support, it excels at its core functionality, delivering traditional surround sound formats with clarity and precision. The inclusion of Bluetooth streaming and four HDMI inputs meets the needs of most basic home theater setups. For users who don't require height channels, advanced gaming features, or extensive streaming options, the Denon represents an excellent value proposition at nearly half the price of the Sony, making it a smart choice for those prioritizing essential performance over premium features.
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👌Denon AVR-S570BT 5.2 Channel AV Home Theater Receiver Details
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The $599 Denon AVR-S970H distinguishes itself with superior room correction through its Audyssey MultEQ technology and a more traditional audiophile-focused approach to sound processing. While both receivers deliver excellent home theater performance, the Denon offers a warmer, more natural sound signature that many enthusiasts prefer. Its HEOS platform works with both Alexa and Google Assistant, offering more flexibility in smart home integration, and the inclusion of a phono input adds value for vinyl enthusiasts. The Denon also includes HDR10+ support, providing a complete suite of HDR formats for compatible displays.
Where the Denon falls slightly behind is in its more basic user interface and fewer innovative features compared to the Sony. The AVR-S970H takes a more conventional approach to home theater, focusing on core performance rather than cutting-edge processing features. While its 90W per channel into 8 ohms provides ample power for most setups, some users might find its traditional approach less exciting than Sony's advanced spatial audio features. However, for those prioritizing pure home theater performance and accurate room correction, the Denon represents an equally compelling value, especially in acoustically challenging rooms where Audyssey's sophisticated calibration can make a significant difference.
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👌Denon AVR-S970H 7.2 Channel 8K AV Home Theater Receiver Details
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The Denon AVR-S770H ($519) offers compelling value with its more straightforward approach to home theater audio, featuring the highly regarded Audyssey MultEQ room correction system that many users find more intuitive and effective for basic setups. Its sound signature tends toward warmth and accuracy, making it particularly good for music playback, and the inclusion of a phono input adds value for vinyl enthusiasts. While its 75W per channel power rating is lower, it's still more than adequate for most medium-sized rooms, and its HDR10+ support provides an advantage for compatible displays and content.
At $79 less than the Sony, the Denon makes a strong case for users who prioritize reliability and ease of use over cutting-edge features. Its HEOS multi-room capability is well-established and reliable, and the straightforward setup process makes it more appealing to those new to home theater. While it may lack some of Sony's advanced audio processing features, many users may prefer its more traditional approach to surround sound, which focuses on accurate reproduction rather than virtual speaker creation. The main trade-off comes in power output and advanced processing features, but for most typical home theater applications, these limitations won't be noticeable.
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👌Denon AVR-S770H 7.2 Channel Home Theater Receiver Details
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The JBL MA710
($679) distinguishes itself with superior amplification, delivering 110 watts per channel of clean Class D power that maintains composure even at high volumes. Its audio-focused design includes high-end features like aptX HD and aptX Adaptive Bluetooth codecs for superior wireless audio quality, plus a dedicated phono input for turntable enthusiasts. The EZ Set EQ room calibration, while simpler than Sony's system, provides effective results in typical rectangular rooms and requires less setup time. These features make it particularly appealing for users who prioritize music listening alongside their home theater use.
While priced $80 higher than the Sony, the JBL MA710
justifies its premium with better amplification and audio refinement, especially noticeable when driving demanding speakers or filling larger rooms. However, it offers just a single HDMI output compared to Sony's dual outputs, and its streaming integration isn't as comprehensive. The JBL's stronger audio performance and efficient Class D amplification make it a compelling choice for enthusiasts who value sound quality over convenience features, though some users might miss Sony's more advanced room correction and streaming capabilities.
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👌JBL MA710 7.2 Channel 8K AV Receiver Details
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The JBL MA510 ($509.95) takes a more streamlined approach, offering excellent 5.2 channel performance without the complexity of height channels or advanced processing modes. Its straightforward setup process and effective basic room correction make it particularly appealing for users who want great sound without extensive tweaking. Despite its lower power rating of 75W per channel, it delivers plenty of volume for typical rooms, and its four HDMI 2.1 inputs support all the latest gaming features including 4K/120Hz and VRR, matching the core video capabilities of more expensive receivers.
Where the JBL really shines is in its value proposition, delivering high-quality audio performance for nearly $90 less than the Sony. While it doesn't offer Dolby Atmos or multi-zone capabilities, many users, particularly those with living room setups rather than dedicated theater rooms, may never miss these features. The focus on core functionality rather than premium features results in a receiver that's easier to use while still providing excellent sound quality for movies, gaming, and music. For those who don't need height channels or advanced processing modes, the JBL represents a more practical choice that doesn't compromise on essential performance.
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👌JBL MA510 5.2 Channel 8K AV Receiver Details
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The JBL MA310
($339.95) offers an attractive alternative for those seeking a more budget-conscious home theater solution. While it lacks Dolby Atmos support and advanced gaming features, it delivers solid performance for standard surround sound content with its 5.2-channel configuration. The clean, efficient Class D amplification provides sufficient power for small to medium-sized rooms, and the EZ Set EQ room calibration system, while basic, does an effective job of optimizing speaker performance for most typical spaces.
At nearly $260 less than the STR-AN1000, the JBL MA310
represents excellent value for users who primarily watch regular TV content and movies without needing height channels or gaming-specific features. Its four HDMI 2.0 inputs handle 4K/60Hz content competently, and the dual subwoofer outputs provide flexibility for bass management. While it may lack the future-proofing and advanced streaming capabilities of the Sony, its straightforward approach and focus on core features make it an ideal choice for those building their first proper home theater system or upgrading from a soundbar setup.
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👌JBL MA310 5.2 Channel 4K AV Receiver Details
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The Sony ES STR-AZ1000ES represents Sony's premium offering at $1,098, incorporating several high-end features that distinguish it from the AN1000. Most notably, it features premium-grade internal components, more sophisticated room calibration capabilities, and IMAX Enhanced certification. The advanced D.C.A.C. IX calibration system provides more measurement points and better room correction, which can make a noticeable difference in challenging acoustic environments. For custom installations, it adds an RS-232 port for automation systems and comes with a longer 5-year warranty, reflecting its premium build quality and expected longevity.
However, the ES model's higher price point comes with some interesting trade-offs. Despite its premium positioning, it actually offers less power per channel (70W versus 100W) than the AN1000. While its superior components may provide marginally cleaner sound at extreme volumes, the difference in typical listening scenarios is subtle. Both receivers share identical video capabilities, streaming features, and core audio format support. Unless you're building a dedicated home theater room, require custom installation features, or are particularly focused on achieving the absolute best room calibration possible, the ES model's $200 premium might be difficult to justify for many users.
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👌Sony ES STR-AZ1000ES 7.2 Channel A/V Receiver Details
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The Onkyo TX-NR5100 stands as a compelling alternative at $440, offering robust core features that match the Sony in several key areas. It delivers the same essential HDMI 2.1 gaming features, including 4K/120Hz support and VRR, while providing capable 80W per channel amplification that's sufficient for most medium-sized rooms. The AccuEQ room calibration, while not as sophisticated as Sony's system, still provides effective acoustic optimization, and the receiver's streaming integration is actually more comprehensive than Sony's offering.
Where the Onkyo TX-NR5100 really shines is in its value proposition, delivering most of the features home theater enthusiasts need at a significantly lower price point. While it lacks Sony's 360 Spatial Sound Mapping and offers fewer HDMI inputs, these limitations won't impact most users' daily experience. For those building a home theater on a budget, or those who simply want a reliable receiver without paying for features they may never use, the Onkyo represents an excellent balance of performance and affordability.
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👌Onkyo TX-NR5100 7.2 Channel 8K AV Receiver Details
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The Pioneer VSX-534 ($329) stands out as a compelling budget alternative, offering solid 5.2-channel performance at nearly half the price. While it can't match the Sony's advanced features, it delivers clean, reliable amplification that's more than adequate for small to medium-sized rooms. Its MCACC room calibration system, though basic compared to Sony's D.C.A.C. IX, still helps optimize speaker performance for your space, and its virtual height processing can create a reasonable sense of overhead effects without additional speakers.
Where the Pioneer falls short is in future-proofing and advanced features. It lacks support for 4K/120Hz gaming, has no network streaming capabilities beyond Bluetooth, and its 5.2-channel limitation means you can't expand to a full Atmos setup with height speakers. However, if you're building a straightforward surround sound system and don't need the latest gaming features or streaming options, the Pioneer VSX-534 represents excellent value, delivering the core home theater experience without unnecessary complexity or cost.
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👌Pioneer VSX-534 5.2 Channel AV Receiver Details
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The Onkyo TX-NR6100 ($519) stands out with its THX certification and more comprehensive connectivity options, including an additional HDMI 2.1 port and a phono input for turntables. While it lacks Sony's advanced 360 Spatial Sound Mapping, the Onkyo's THX-certified processing delivers exceptionally accurate sound reproduction that home theater enthusiasts often prefer. Its AccuEQ room calibration, though simpler than Sony's D.C.A.C. IX, provides reliable results in most room configurations. The inclusion of HDR10+ support also gives it a slight edge in video compatibility, particularly for Samsung TV owners.
At nearly $80 less than the Sony, the Onkyo TX-NR6100 represents excellent value for those who prioritize traditional home theater performance over cutting-edge features. Its mature platform, released in 2021, has proven reliable and capable, matching the Sony in core gaming features like 4K/120Hz support, VRR, and ALLM. While it uses an older Bluetooth 4.2 standard and lacks 8K upscaling, these limitations rarely impact real-world usage. For buyers seeking a rock-solid performer with THX certification and comprehensive connectivity at a more attractive price point, the Onkyo makes a compelling alternative to the Sony.
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👌Onkyo TX-NR6100 7.2 Channel THX Certified AV Receiver Details
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The Yamaha RX-V385 stands out as a compelling budget-friendly alternative at $299, offering excellent core performance for traditional 5.1 surround sound setups. While it lacks Atmos support and advanced streaming features, it delivers clean, powerful audio with its 100W per channel amplification and high-quality Burr-Brown DACs. The YPAO room calibration system, though simpler than Sony's D.C.A.C. IX, effectively optimizes speaker settings for most room configurations. Its support for 4K/60Hz video, HDR formats, and Bluetooth connectivity covers the essential needs of most home theater enthusiasts.
Where the Yamaha RX-V385 really shines is in its value proposition and straightforward operation. It offers remarkably good sound quality for movies and music, with particularly strong performance in medium-sized rooms. While it doesn't match the Sony's advanced features or future-proofing capabilities, it provides everything needed for an engaging home theater experience at half the price. For users who don't need Atmos support or gaming-focused features like 4K/120Hz, the Yamaha represents an excellent balance of performance and value, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers or those setting up their first proper home theater system.
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👌Yamaha RX-V385 5.1 Channel 4K AV Home Theater Receiver Details
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The Yamaha RX-V4A ($451) offers compelling value for users who don't need advanced features like Dolby Atmos or extra channels. Its straightforward interface and reliable performance make it an excellent choice for traditional 5.1 surround setups, and its warmer sound signature particularly shines with music playback. While it initially had some HDMI 2.1 implementation issues, Yamaha addressed these through a hardware upgrade program, making it now capable of handling 4K/120Hz gaming, though not quite as seamlessly as the Sony.
Where the Yamaha RX-V4A really stands out is in its price-to-performance ratio for basic home theater needs. The MusicCast platform offers robust multi-room capabilities, and the YPAO room calibration system, while simpler than Sony's, still delivers effective results for most room configurations. However, the lack of Dolby Atmos support and limitation to 5.2 channels means this receiver is best suited for users who prioritize value over premium features and don't plan to expand beyond a traditional surround sound setup in the future.
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👌Yamaha RX-V4A 5.2 Channel AV Receiver Details
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The Yamaha RX-V6A ($649) stands out with its superior gaming features and more robust room calibration system. Its YPAO multi-point measurement technology often achieves better real-world results than Sony's calibration system, particularly in challenging room layouts. With seven HDMI inputs, including three HDMI 2.1 ports, it offers more connectivity options than the Sony, and its gaming-focused features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), and Quick Frame Transport (QFT) provide a notably better gaming experience.
However, while the Yamaha delivers excellent performance, its 2020 release date shows in several areas compared to the Sony. The video processing isn't as refined, lacking 8K upscaling capabilities, and its surround sound processing, while very good, doesn't match the immersive experience of Sony's 360 Spatial Sound Mapping. The Yamaha RX-V6A does offer strong value for gamers and those needing maximum connectivity options, but its higher price point and older technology make it a harder sell for pure home theater enthusiasts who don't need its gaming-specific features.
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👌Yamaha RX-V6A 7.2 Channel AV Receiver Details
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The Marantz NR1510 ($599) stands out with its slim profile design, measuring just 4.1 inches tall - half the height of traditional receivers. This space-saving form factor doesn't compromise sound quality, as the Marantz delivers a warm, detailed audio signature that many enthusiasts prefer for music listening. While its 50-watts-per-channel rating is modest compared to the Sony's output, it's plenty powerful for small to medium-sized rooms and typical speaker setups. The Marantz also offers excellent build quality and a straightforward user interface that makes daily operation simple and intuitive.
Where the Marantz shows its age is in its video processing capabilities, lacking support for 8K and 4K/120Hz passthrough. However, for users who don't need the latest gaming features or aren't planning to upgrade to 8K displays anytime soon, the Marantz NR1510 remains a compelling option. Its 5.2 channel configuration, while more limited than the Sony's 7.2 setup, still delivers engaging surround sound for movies and TV shows. The lack of Dolby Atmos support might be a dealbreaker for some, but the money saved on height speakers could be invested in better main speakers, where you'll often notice more immediate improvements in sound quality.
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👌Marantz NR1510 5.2 Channel AV Receiver Details
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The STR-DH590
($298) offers impressive value for those seeking a straightforward home theater solution. While lacking Dolby Atmos support and advanced streaming features, it delivers clean, powerful sound through its 5.2-channel amplification. The receiver handles 4K/60Hz content beautifully and includes HDR support for excellent picture quality. Its simplified feature set actually makes it more approachable for users who don't need the complexity of height channels or multiple streaming options.
For about $300 less than the AN1000, the STR-DH590
provides everything needed for a traditional surround sound setup. Its basic DCAC calibration system, while not as sophisticated as the AN1000's, still helps achieve proper speaker levels and distances. With four HDMI inputs, Bluetooth connectivity, and reliable 145W per channel output, it represents an excellent choice for smaller rooms or those who prioritize value over cutting-edge features. However, users wanting Atmos capability, 4K/120Hz gaming support, or integrated streaming services should consider the more advanced AN1000 instead.
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👌Sony STR-DH590 5.2 Channel 4K HDR AV Receiver Details
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The Yamaha R-N602 ($649) takes a purist approach as a dedicated stereo receiver, focusing entirely on delivering exceptional two-channel audio performance. While it costs more than the STR-AN1000, it offers superior stereo imaging, a premium Burr-Brown DAC, and a high-quality phono stage that vinyl enthusiasts will appreciate. The Yamaha's concentrated power delivery of 80 watts per channel through a dedicated two-channel amplifier, combined with its ToP-ART design philosophy and high-grade components, results in noticeably cleaner and more detailed music reproduction compared to the Sony's multi-channel approach.
For those primarily focused on music listening, the Yamaha R-N602 presents a compelling alternative despite its higher price and lack of video features. Its robust aluminum construction, audiophile-grade components, and Pure Direct mode that bypasses unnecessary circuitry demonstrate its commitment to audio excellence. While it can't match the Sony's home theater capabilities or modern connectivity options, its superior stereo performance and exceptional phono stage make it a better choice for dedicated music listeners, especially those with high-end speakers or turntables. However, buyers should be aware that they're trading modern features and flexibility for enhanced two-channel performance.
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👌Yamaha R-N602 Network Stereo Receiver Details
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