Sony STRDH790.CEK 7.2 Channel Dolby Atmos/DTS: X 4K HDR AV Receiver - Black

It's been quite some time since I need to buy a new receiver. I was completely happy with my previous one which was also a Sony. The older unit was quite a bit more expensive, and higher end than this one when I purchased it. Sadly, as technology moves on, some stuff just doesn't fit in so well with the new guys! My reason for switching receivers was due to needing 4K and HDR Passthrough, something my older unit couldn't do. I don't think the 4K specification had actually been finalized when I got it, so while the sound was great, there was no way to pass 4K HDR video through it's HDMI, and no way to upgrade it.To keep costs down, I decided that this time, I was going to get something a bit cheaper, but keep with the same brand since I was happy with the previous unit, and then later on, invest in something a bit higher end. That plan has kind of gone out the window at this point.The DH790 is great for it's price. It's got all the latest connectivity, but still packs in a great sound. I haven't actually notice much of a difference in the sound hooked up to my Kef speakers. It's quite slim compared to what I'm used to as well, so I gained some space under the TV what was an added bonus.I don't want to get to into the details with this, there's no shortage of consumer and professional level reviews out there already, so it's best to get the full details from them. If your already using a receiver for a standard home theatre set up with speakers rated at around 100 - 120w, and are thinking of upgrading it for newer HDMI standards, or Bluetooth etc, my advice would be to look at something like this. It's way more affordable, and you really aren't loosing much at all. I decided to keep the DH790 rather than spending another £600 - £700 on a receiver that I can't really hear much difference in.

I recently decided to elevate my home entertainment experience and brought home the Sony STRDH790.CEK. The decision has been nothing short of transformative. Not only does its sleek black design blend seamlessly with my existing setup, but its performance has been truly outstanding.I've hooked it up to my 4K projector, and the pairing is impeccable. The visuals are sharp, vibrant, and incredibly detailed, making movie nights a cinematic experience right in the comfort of my living room. The 7.2 channel capability, complemented by Dolby Atmos and DTS: X, provides an audio depth and clarity that's unparalleled. Every sound, from subtle dialogues to intense action sequences, is crisp and immersive.What I appreciate most is the reliability of this AV receiver. It consistently delivers top-notch performance, making every viewing session a delight. The user interface is intuitive, and setting it up was hassle-free.In essence, if anyone's looking to enhance their audiovisual experience, I can't recommend the Sony STRDH790.CEK enough. It's been a fantastic addition to my setup and has truly brought my movies and music to life.

At the time of purchase I couldn't find anything else with this range of features at this kind of price.It IS very well specified and does everything that I need it to do. I have a Samsung 4K TV, Virgin Media "set-top" box, DVD, Internet Radio and portable media player attached. All good! I also have two B&W main speakers with a further 5 centre/satellite surround speakers connected. Turn it up a bit and watch something like Top Gun Maverick and you'll be impressed.The Bluetooth pairing is easy and playing from my phone gives a good sound with a good range.I've not used the FM function. Setup is pretty straight-forward too.However, there are a few of things I've noticed:1. Occasionally, you can see bright speckles on the black of the screen. This IS the receiver because if you turn it off and back on, it clears. It could just be this box.2. The Virgin Media box doesn't think I have a 4K connection when I try and watch Sky Movies in 4K - it says it's incompatible. If I take the HDMI directly from the VM box to the TV, it plays without issue. Whether this is down to the VM box or the Sony Receiver, I can't tell but it's slightly annoying. I don't have any issue playing 4K content directly from the VM 4K channel nor from YouTube etc. So Sky Movies may be sending out a particular signal?3. The menu is very difficult to see on the unit itself. It's down below the TV almost at ground level so the angle isn't good from the chair/sofa height. Not all menu's are visible on my screen. It seems to decide what it will show e.g. I sometimes see the on-screen volume change and sometimes I don't. I definitely feel they could improve this on-screen menu. If there were more controls on the front of the unit (even if concealed under a flap) it would be easier too. Although I understand that part of the attraction of this box is its nice clean appearance.4. I would also appreciate an illuminated remote. I only ever use this in the dark so either have to turn the light on or use the torch on my phone. Not ideal.So, at this price, still probably a decent enough Dolby Atmos unit, if that's what you're looking for. If Dolby Atmos isn't important, you can probably find a better receiver. If you're prepared to spend more then go for Denon, Marantz or Yamaha. But don't forget to check your speakers.This doesn't have HEOS or Airplay, Alexa or Google.