Very nice features for a entry-level receiver
Written: Jul 06 '02 (Updated Aug 11 '02)
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Pros: Low price, excellent display, source renaming
Cons: Lack of ProLogicII, remote layout, durability (?)
The Bottom Line: I'd highly recommend this receiver for people on a budget and don't mind possible durability issues later on. (Techies looking for excuse to upgrade later, rejoice!)
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| kickstop's Full Review: Sony STR-DE475 5.1 Channels Receiver |
This receiver was my first DD/DTS receiver, and I was very happy with how it performed. The physical dimension of the receiver is shorter than others, which may be a blessing for people short on space.
The display on the receiver is excellent. I really like how it reports the audio format and channels coming through the digital inputs. The blue LED that reports multichannel decoding is attractive and matches other Sony equipment like PS2. The ability to rename/customize default source names to match owner's components is a feature all receivers (low and high end alike) should include. It's really nice to be able to rename sources from "TV/Sat, Video, CD" to "Xbox, PS2, Gamecube".
The remote control included with receiver could use a better layout. The IR commands, however, are readily copied by my CrispSolutions UC525 learning remote (unlike my new Pioneer receiver's remote).
The biggest drawback of this receiver (at least for me) is the lack of ProLogicII. This is acceptable since it is a previous generation entry level unit. (Lack of ProLogicII in the updated DE485 is harder to forgive since competitors in same price range include it.)
Another possible downside is the worrying reports of how Sony receivers tend to burn out after a couple of years.
The DE475 is an excellent low cost DD/DTS receiver with many useful features not even found on higher class receivers.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 169
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Epinions.com ID:
kickstop
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Reviews written: 2
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