I received this as a gift several years ago. I had been wanting a new receiver and speaker system that I could hold onto for a while, and this turned out to be a great gift. (bear in mind this was when DVD players were still pricey and VHS was the choice for most people)

The reciever offered DTS and Dolby Digital decoding via coaxial or TOSLink (fiber optic) inputs. I particularly like how they chose to give both the optical and coaxial digital inputs since DVD players vary in their outputs. At the time, the built-in decoding was only seen on more expensive receivers. This decoding is also great for future expansion with the rise of DTS audio CDs and DVD Audio discs that use DTS encoding. The SA-DX930 also provides Dolby Pro-Logic decoding for TV broadcasts and VHS tapes.

Although the selection of inputs on the back may not be as many as some would like, it should satisfy the average person's needs. Although I do not listen to records/LPs, there is a phono input that some may appreciate (this is becoming a rarity these days). There are enough inputs to allow hookup of most basic home theater components, such as a CD player, DVD player, VCR, and satellite receiver. If you have a graphic equalizer or pre-amp, you will like the pre-amp outputs.

Some have criticized this unit for using cheesy speaker wire connectors, but I think they expect too much from this receiver. Bear in mind that when it was released, the DX930 was retailing for roughly $349...hardly a professional home theater amp. Most home theater users choose 14 gauge wire, so the speaker connectors on this unit work perfectly. For anyone with an additional set of speakers, fear not -- there is a "B" speaker output that lets you use another set for an outdoor patio, a study, or perhaps a kitchen. If you have an amplified subwoofer, there is a special output for it (very nice for anyone with a custom 5.1 speaker system).

On to the most important aspect of any piece of audio equipment: the sound quality. For $349, I wasn't disappointed. Bass output is clean and tight, without excessive rumbling and boom. Treble is crisp and clear, without excessive hiss and static (thanks to the Class-H amplifier). There are built-in bass/treble knobs, but cranking these up can lead to a drowned-out midrange. I recommend picking up an inexpensive equalizer to boost the midrange and fine-tine your listening experience. The unit is rated at 100Wx5, more than enough for most people. I am driving a small Bose Acoustimass 6 speaker system and it is plenty loud at one-quarter volume in my family room with vaulted ceilings. In 6-channel listening modes (DVDs), you will not be disappointed either. The soundstage is excellent and I still enjoy hearing the bullet casings all around me in The Matrix. My biggest complaint about sound quality is in the "simulated surround" modes. There are a few to choose from, such as Theater, Club, Hall, and Simulated Surround. This is a gimmick. The only one that sounds remotely good is Simulated Surround. I recommend using stereo mode for CDs or maybe the Sim Surround if you want more ambience.

Aesthetically, the SA-DX930 is nothing to write home about. It is a ho-hum black with some faux gold accents. The trend these days seems to be silver/gray, but during its time the DX930 was a handsome unit. The display is a bit difficult to read from a distance, but most people will simply set it to the correct mode before they begin and leave it. I dislike large displays because they are a distraction during TV viewing or a movie when the lights are dimmed.

The remote is cheesy, I won't lie. I recommend picking up some sort of universal remote with macro features and programming some combinations in.

And of course the Technics name is a very trusted brand (manufactured by Panasonic). I have not had a single problem with this unit yet. Some have complained about overheating, but if you simply leave things off the top fo the receiver AS THE INSTRUCTIONS SAY TO, you shouldn't have a problem.

Recommended: Yes

Amount Paid (US$): 349