Sony Receivers


Sony is a giant in all aspects of consumer electronics, with its finger in every conceivable area, including media. This is why it has brand recognition and a loyal following. But it's also why Sony products can be a bit of a risk.

Never assume because your Sony TV was great and lasted a long time that the same high standards go into their speakers or receivers. There are many who believe companies that try to be the jacks-of-all-trades end up being masters of none.
All of Sony's electronics have a reputation for reliability and competitive standards. The same can be said of Sony receivers. While tonal qualities are subjective, some of Sony's receivers and integrated amplifiers have received low grades for an uninspiring sound.

As a consumer, you must shop around and audition equipment against others in its category. Other receivers in the $600 range by Pioneer, Onkyo, Yamaha and Denon will likely compare favorably against Sony.

Price Points

Super low-budget Sony STR-DE595 retails at $250 and offers 5 100Watt channels, decodes Dolby Digital, DTS and Dolby Pro Logic II. Don't expect rich and detailed sound quality, but it's an amazing load of features for this price category.

Sony STR-DE995 at $600 is favored by critics and features multi-room capabilities.

Sony ES

Sony's high-end line is called Sony ES and is in a whole different category than standard Sony gear found in mainstream warehouse stores. Sony ES is known for high standards in both their engineering and reliability but upper-end ES gear might be a bit pricey for the average consumer.