More features, less cost!
Written: Jan 23 '03 (Updated Jan 25 '03)
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Pros: 5.1 INPUTS On screen set-up and adjustments Price surround back speaker.
Cons: No major disappointments
The Bottom Line: The 5.1 pre-amp inputs, 3 composite inputs, respectable 6.1 output, and learning remote, make it solid and versitile receiver.
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| kingarthurs's Full Review: Sony STR-DE985 6.1 Channels Receiver |
i bought this to replace my Sony STR-DE935 because some of the amplifier channels burnt out. To be honest,the manual specifically stated do not use "a+b" speakers in the surround mode but i did it anyway. I mention this because a new "improvement" on the 985 is that while you do have a switch for "a" and "b" speakers "a+b" is no longer an option, it is either or. (Since i have outdoor speakers i connect tape out on the Sony with tape in on another receiver and still have indoor/outdoor tunes). I feel compelled to make a comment about power rating of this receiver. Although Sony calls it 600 watts (100x6) sometimes it is useful to look at the electric power ratings that manufacturers put on the back of appliances, in this case 60Hz, 265W. that is because different manufacturers (e.g. Harmon-Kardon) use different formulas to come up with the power output per channel rating. For my purposes the Sony has more than enough power, although it is by no means a powerhouse. The remote is excellent. it can "learn" non Sony components. I have had "learning remotes before but this was the first that could learn all of my components. next big thing: 5.1 inputs. if you get a receiver without 5.1 preamp inputs you will be missing out on the next music revolution DVD-Audio and Super Audio CD (SACD). In general i don't like DSP modes or the likes however, if you have a sixth speaker and hook it up for "surround rear" in 6.1 set-up you may be pleasantly surprised. I like A,B,and C, 6.1 modes for watching some movies where the normal dolby just doesn't seem to have enough surround effect. The real breakthru of this receiver is the features/dollar, particularly the connections. With 2 component video in and 1 out, super video and analog across the board (including front supervideo), both optical and coaxial digital output, subwoofer pre-amp out, 5.1 pre-amp in, am/fm external antenna connections and a/b speaker switch, this receiver can form the central role of an economical, but respectable home theater. Value is why I give it a 5.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 320
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Epinions.com ID:
kingarthurs
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Reviews written: 1
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