Today, I want to share with you my thoughts on the Sony STR-DH590 AV receiver. In this review, I’ll go over its key features, design and interface, audio and video performance, and give you my final verdict on whether it’s worth your hard-earned money.
The Sony STR-DH590 is perfect for those who crave impressive sound quality without the complexity of a high-end AV receiver. It supports Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio decoding and onboard DSD decoding. With a power rating of 145 watts at six ohms, it delivers a real-world power rating of 90 watts RMS with six-ohm loads.
This receiver can also pass through a full 4K/60p 4:4:4 signal with support for 3D, HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision. While it may lack network functionality, it offers Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity for easy streaming.
Setting up the Sony STR-DH590 is a breeze thanks to Sony’s DCAC automatic setup feature. The remote has an intuitive layout that makes controlling your audio experience simple.
Overall, this receiver provides excellent sound quality in a compact package.
Stay tuned to find out more about its design and interface, audio performance, video performance, and whether or not it’s worth investing in!
Key Features
The Sony STR-DH590, with its sleek design, offers a range of key features that make it a top choice for videophiles looking for an easy-to-use AV receiver. This 5.2-channel receiver is packed with advanced capabilities to enhance your audio and video experience.
It boasts 4 analog inputs and 2 subwoofer outputs, allowing you to connect multiple devices and create a dynamic sound system. The digital optical and coaxial inputs provide additional connectivity options for your audio sources. With 4 HDMI inputs and 1 HDMI output, this receiver supports the latest video technologies, including 4K video with HDCP 2.2, HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, 60P, and 4:4:4 color space.
The included calibration microphone ensures easy setup for optimal sound quality in any room. While it lacks built-in WiFi, the built-in Bluetooth allows for convenient music streaming from your favorite devices. The S-Force Pro Front Surround feature simulates surround sound with only two front speakers, delivering clean dialogue and impressive on-screen action.
Design and Interface
With its sleek design, the receiver’s front panel features a brushed black finish, volume and input knobs, headphone output, and various buttons. The compact size and lightweight construction make it easy to fit into any setup.
The back panel has a clean layout with HDMI inputs and outputs, digital audio inputs, stereo audio inputs, subwoofer pre-outs, and an FM antenna input. Speaker connections include five-way binding posts for the main channels and spring-clip connectors for the other channels.
The receiver’s interface is simple and intuitive, with a basic black-and-white OSD that provides options for watching, listening, easy setup, sound effects, and speaker settings. The remote control has a logical layout but lacks backlighting.
Audio Performance
Impressively delivering dynamic and intense sound, the audio performance of the Sony STR-DH590 is a true testament to its fantastic sound quality. Whether you’re watching movies or listening to music, this receiver provides a clean and precise dialogue with impressive on-screen action.
The rich and immersive sound envelope makes your viewing experience more enjoyable.
One notable feature of the Sony STR-DH590 is the S-Force Pro Front Surround technology, which simulates surround sound with just two front speakers. While it’s not as good as a true surround sound setup, it does provide a wider soundstage and enhances the overall listening experience.
Overall, this little amp packs a punch in terms of audio performance. It delivers clear and powerful sound that will satisfy even the most discerning audiophiles.
If you prioritize sound quality in your AV receiver, the Sony STR-DH590 should definitely be at the top of your list.
Video Performance
Get ready to be blown away by the stunning video performance of the Sony STR-DH590 AV receiver. This receiver is truly a powerhouse when it comes to delivering exceptional visuals. With support for 4K video and advanced features like HDCP 2.2, HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, 60P, and 4:4:4 color space, you can expect nothing less than breathtaking picture quality.
Whether you’re watching your favorite movies or playing the latest video games, the Sony STR-DH590 will immerse you in a world of vibrant colors and sharp details. The receiver also ensures seamless connectivity with its four HDMI inputs and one HDMI output that can pass through a full 4K/60p 4:4:4 signal.
Say goodbye to blurry images and hello to an unparalleled visual experience with the Sony STR-DH590 AV receiver.
Comparison to Sony STR-DH790
When it comes to choosing the perfect AV receiver for your home theater setup, both the Sony STR-DH790 and the Sony STR-DH590 stand out as solid choices. However, the STR-DH790 holds a clear advantage over its counterpart, offering a superior and more advanced feature set that enhances your audio and video experience to new heights.
Firstly, let’s explore the similarities and differences between these two AV receivers:
| Feature | Sony STR-DH790 | Sony STR-DH590 |
|---|---|---|
| Channels | 7.2 | 5.2 |
| Power Output (per channel) | 145W | 100W |
| HDMI Inputs | 6 (4K/60Hz, HDR, HDCP 2.2) | 4 (4K/60Hz, HDR, HDCP 2.2) |
| HDR Support | Yes | Yes |
| Dolby Atmos Support | Yes | No |
| DTS:X Support | Yes | No |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Auto Calibration | Advanced D.C.A.C. EX | D.C.A.C. |
| Cost | Slightly Higher | More Affordable |
| Price | Check on Amazon | Check on Amazon |
Now, let’s delve into why the Sony STR-DH790 is the superior choice:
- Enhanced Audio Immersion: The STR-DH790 is a 7.2-channel receiver with support for both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, delivering a more immersive audio experience compared to the 5.2-channel configuration of the STR-DH590. With Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, you can enjoy breathtaking overhead sound effects, adding a new dimension to your movie nights and gaming sessions.
- Increased Power Output: The Sony STR-DH790 boasts a more substantial power output of 145W per channel, ensuring clearer and more dynamic audio performance, especially during demanding and high-volume scenes. This power advantage enables the receiver to easily drive larger speakers, delivering a more captivating and impactful soundstage.
- Advanced Room Calibration: The Sony STR-DH790 features the advanced Digital Cinema Auto Calibration EX (D.C.A.C. EX), which offers more precise and refined audio calibration for your specific room acoustics. This results in optimized sound delivery, ensuring that you get the most out of your speakers and subwoofer setup.
- Additional HDMI Inputs: With two extra HDMI inputs, the Sony STR-DH790 provides greater flexibility in connecting your various devices, such as gaming consoles, media players, and streaming devices. This allows you to keep all your entertainment sources connected simultaneously without the need for frequent switching.
While the Sony STR-DH590 is indeed a solid choice with its affordability and core features, the Sony STR-DH790 undoubtedly elevates your home theater experience to a higher level. If you’re seeking the utmost in audio immersion, advanced calibration capabilities, and the ability to accommodate a larger speaker setup, the STR-DH790 is recommended. Nevertheless, if you have budget constraints or require a simpler setup, the Sony STR-DH590 is still a reliable choice that won’t disappoint.
Final Verdict: Is It Worth the Money?
Overall, the Sony STR-DH590 AV receiver is a fantastic investment for anyone looking to enhance their home entertainment system. With its stunning visuals and immersive sound quality, it delivers an impressive audio and video performance. The receiver’s top-notch video capabilities support 4K video with HDCP 2.2, HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, 60P, and 4:4:4 color space. This ensures that you can enjoy your favorite movies and shows in the highest picture quality possible.
Additionally, the audio performance of the Sony STR-DH590 is equally impressive. It delivers clean and precise dialogue, along with a dynamic and intense sound that envelops you in the action on screen. The inclusion of features like S-Force Pro Front Surround adds depth to the soundstage but falls short of a true surround sound setup.
Considering its sleek design, intuitive remote control, and impressive video and audio capabilities, the Sony STR-DH590 is worth every penny if you prioritize sound quality in your home entertainment setup.
