Best Sony AV Receivers

The Sony STR-AN1000  8K AV Receiver is a powerful and feature-packed audio solution that delivers immersive sound quality with its 11.2 channel support, while also providing stunning visuals when connected to an 8K compatible display thanks to the advanced HDMI 2.1 ports on offer. With 140W per channel power output and Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and IMAX Enhanced object-based surround technologies supported alongside features such as WiSA compatibility for wireless rear speakers or Music Connect multiroom streaming capabilities, this receiver has all bases covered in terms of delivering a comprehensive home theater experience from any source imaginable – be it movies & TV shows via streaming services or physical media formats like CDs & Blu Ray discs played through the built-in player tray slot.

Sony STRZA5000ES: Dolby Atmos-Capable 9.2-Channel Premium Receiver

Sony recognizes that a receiver with mediocre features is not what a top-tier home theater owner requires. The Sony STRZA5000ES is a 9.2-channel model that employs all the features that you are going to need to build a superior system for watching movies and listening to music in the best quality: 4K pass-through, IMAX support, etc.

Design

At first glance, the receiver looks simple. There is only one button—the Power button and one knob—Master Volume. However, when you take the aluminum front cover off, you will see dozens of buttons. This receiver, like other high-quality receivers, is extremely hefty, weighing over 30 pounds.

At the same time, the receiver has a simple appearance and a large range of onboard control options. As a result, it earns a 10/10 for design.

Features

The device supports Dolby Atmos, Dolby Vision, HDR10, and DTS:X. In addition, it's compliant with 4K, 60Hz, and 4:4:4 formats. It also has the ability to upscale HD content to 4K (but not SD and lower quality content). Because it has nine 130W amplifiers, it has a considerably better power transformer than, say, the Sony STR-ZA3100ES (an older model from the same series).

Unfortunately, the Sony STRZA5000ES specs don't include streaming apps support. Instead, the receiver offers Music Connect—a Sony-exclusive feature that permits connecting the STRZA5000ES to almost any network music player. An FM wire antenna is included in the kit, so the radio is available.

Evaluating the receiver's features, I decided to give it an 8 out of 10.

Performance

The receiver is easy to configure and use. You can access any of its features via Web GUI, and tune the settings to suit your liking. It can also handle two pairs of speakers, either independently or simultaneously. There is a fan inside that prevents the receiver from heating, so it stays cool no matter what. The device also operates silently, with the exception of the amp, which occasionally makes clicking noises.

The receiver's performance is generally satisfying, so it gets a score of 9/10.

Sound Quality

The sound of the Sony STRZA5000ES 9.2ch receiver is incredible with any type of music and movie. It's capable of producing an object-based surround sound, giving you an immersive and spacious audio experience. As a result, the sound does not appear to be coming from your speakers. Instead, you get the impression that it might emanate from anywhere in the room.

So, the sound quality of this model is completely in line with its pricing. That is why it wins 10 out of 10 points here.

Connectivity

The rear panel is packed with broad connectivity options. But, it does not appear cluttered since Sony has reduced the amount of seldom used connectors: there are no component outputs, no phono input, etc. It has only 4 analog ports, 2 composite and 2 component video inputs, 2 optical, 1 coaxial audio inputs, 6 HDMI 2.0 inputs, 2 HDMI outputs, etc.

It does have an Ethernet port, but there is no Wi-Fi or Bluetooth support. It's a big disadvantage for such an expensive device. For this reason, I can't give it more than a 7/10 for connectivity.

Setup

The Sony STRZA5000ES manual provides the illustration-based setup instructions. So, in fact, all you have to do is just position the speakers and connect them to the receiver just as shown in the pictures. Then, connect it to your TV and follow the on-screen instructions.

So, you won't even have to read the manual to perform an initial setup: just look at the pictures. For such simplicity, it deserves 10/10.

Conclusion

As this Sony STRZA5000ES review shows, the current receiver is great for watching Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, UHD, and IMAX content. The object-based soundtrack will also appeal to the majority of moviegoers. However, the absence of wireless controls and streaming apps support is disappointing.