★★★★★ 5
Overall Excellent - Thorough Review - READ ME
Style: Stereo Receiver, Configuration: Receiver
I'm not an audiophile per se, but I do have elevated listening preferences. I enjoy finding the value in devices, and system configs. So that's the reason I tried this more budget-friendly receiver.
Aesthetics: The look is very sleek and modern, which is great but sometimes I miss the nostalgia of more knobs. There is no base/treble knob and most everything is controlled by remote. That's fine I suppose, just be aware. The volume knob is very large and traditional which I love, but is also very stiff and not buttery smooth like you might expect. Perhaps that will break-in.
Sound Quality: Wow, this sounds incredible. There is definitely a DSP happening that is noticeably awesome. It's referred to by Sony as Pure Direct. If you want to by-pass this, you can, but you'll hear right away the difference is major. I'm using simple Klipsch bookshelf speakers, and my expectations are surpassed on how much they come to life with bright and rich sound. Definitely a nice pairing for those shopping for speakers along with this unit. Overall the SQ is gonna be tough to beat without spending exponentially more.
Remote: The remote is nice, sleek, and has what you need to quickly access. No complaints there.
Installation: Takes minutes, super easy. Didn't follow any instructions due to my general confidence hooking up home audio gear.
Overall: I highly recommend this one, and I'm picky. Initially, I fully expected to return this receiver, but plan to keep it. The only thing that may change my mind, is if I miss the nostalgia... then I'll have to go vintage. But no way a vintage receiver will sound this good. Props to Sony. Well done :)
A+
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Reviewed in the United States on January 18, 2024
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