You will need to read the manual
Written: Dec 11 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: High power, lots of controls
Cons: The controls are not intuitive
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| petergaryr's Full Review: Sony STR-DE825 Receiver |
This receiver, which I have owned for over a year now, requires careful set-up before it will perform the way it is capable.
There is very little that is intuitive about it. However, it you take the time to learn how to operate it, it will produce very satisfactory results.
As an example, the audio quality of each of the inputs can be adjust independently. It is possible to use the built in equalizer to create one effect for video that is completely different than for CD's.
Here is where the debate is centered: what is the goal of the settings? I know there are some purists will will argue that all controls should be set to "flat", and that produces the best sound. If that were the case, why have controls in the first place? The fact is, each listening room is different, and the Sony provides enough control over the sound to adjust to vitually any setting (or taste). There are a number of digital effects that can be turned on or off as desired. Those are a matter of taste. Personally, I like the "decode auto format" setting.
It produces 100 watts of equal power on all 5 channels. It incorporates a Dolby Digital 5.1 decoder so you can enjoy DVDs in full frequency surround sound. There is no DTS decoder. It will support dual sub-woofers if you are so inclined.
The remote is easy to use, but unfortunately is not lighted. This receiver is part of an all-Sony setup that includes DVD, WEGA TV, VCR, speakers and CD. Naturally, a unified remote is perfect for such a situation.
I had a problem with the original unit. It would cut out after a few minutes. The only way to get sound back was to switch quickly to another input source. I returned the original for a replacement, and it has worked without problems.
If you are on a limited budget, this receiver will provide you with quite a lot of control over your system. That, as I said, is either a blessing or a curse.
Recommended:
Yes
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petergaryr
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