The Best BUDGET Stereo Receiver? Sony Receiver Review! - Sony STRDH190
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- Опубліковано 21 вер 2024
- ✅ Get the Sony DH190 Receiver: amzn.to/2TDQu7X & bit.ly/3mlJqJN
✅ CLICK SHOW MORE ⬇️ to see how we tested this SONY receiver
**This video came out in 2020. Product and price may no longer be available.
► REVIEWING THE SONY STR-DH190 STEREO RECEIVER
▹▹ SONY STR-DH190 RECEIVER: amzn.to/2TDQu7X, bit.ly/3mlJqJN
▹▹ SONY SSCS5 3-Way Speakers: amzn.to/3oEwVKZ (also reviewed)
► TESTING THE SONY DH190
SPEAKERS
Klipsch RP-8000F: bit.ly/8000F
Jamo S809 Towers: amzn.to/356tnK5
Jamo S803 Bookshelf: amzn.to/2F6hMQw
Q Acoustics 3010i: amzn.to/33tCZxq
Q Acoustics Concept 300: bit.ly/C300wsA
Sony CS5: amzn.to/3oEwVKZ
Fluance XL8 Bookshelf: amzn.to/2ZSnahy
TURNTABLE
Fluance RT85: bit.ly/RT85player
OTHER SOURCES
Arylic S50Pro: bit.ly/AS50P
LG 8K TV: bit.ly/LG8K99TV with this HDMI Adapter: amzn.to/2GE91OJ
MOVIES + MUSIC
Emma (2020): amzn.to/2JfQ9GC
Live Free or Die Hard: amzn.to/3mdWOjd
Harry Styles, Fine Line: amzn.to/2JaMGcW
Diana Krall, Girl in the Other Room: amzn.to/2In20T0
Dexter Gordon, Tower of Power!: amzn.to/3q8xs8M
Ariana Grande “My Hair” from Positions: amzn.to/3fLNOPT
King Princess “Only Time Makes it Human”: amzn.to/374HIX4
► MORE FROM SONY
RECEIVERS
5000ES: amzn.to/34e7yaI
2100ES: amzn.to/2Uzgthc
1100ES: amzn.to/36QuQno
STR-DH790 7.2: amzn.to/2HkkKSs
STR-DH590 5.2: amzn.to/3jjRHM2
STR-DN1080 7.2: bit.ly/STRDN1080
TVs
X950G TV: bit.ly/s950G
X950H TV: amzn.to/32T5vrr
A8H OLED TV: bit.ly/SONYA8H
A9G OLED TV: amzn.to/3iLxkah
Z9G 8K TV: bit.ly/8KZ9G75
HEADPHONES/SPEAKERS
WH-1000XM4 Headphones: bit.ly/WH1000xm4
CS5 3-Way Speakers: amzn.to/3oEwVKZ
► COMPARABLE STEREO RECEIVERS
Arylic A50: bit.ly/A50amp
► WHAT TO PAIR WITH THE SONY DH190
Sony DH190 amzn.to/2TDQu7X + Fluance Bookshelves: amzn.to/2ZSnahy
ADD the Audio Technica amzn.to/33OfgXO for a GREAT system under $500*
► SONY STR-DH190 REVEW
Is this the Best BUDGET Stereo Receiver? Sony Receiver Review! - Sony STRDH190
Budget stereo equipment that sounds good can be found outside of the used market if you look hard enough. While most audiophiles will argue that you should “just buy used” if you’re on a tight budget, used audio gear isn’t always the best solution. Used often doesn’t come with a warranty and nor does it always amount to huge savings. If you are just getting started in home audio, going with a 2 channel stereo receiver is a great place to start for a beginner hifi setup. So when we came across the Sony STRDH190 stereo receiver for under $100*, we had to try it. Can you really achieve quality sound with something so cheap? Let’s find out!
*Price subject to change based on availability.
★ MORE ANDREW ROBINSON REVIEWS
➔ Sony 2100ES AV Receiver Review: • Is 8K BETTER than 4K? ...
➔ Sony A8H OLED TV Review: • Are OLED TVS STILL the...
➔ Sony STR-DN1080 AV Receiver Review: • BUDGET Dolby Atmos HOM...
➔ Arylic A50 Review: • Arylic A50 Integrated ...
► MY REFERENCE AUDIO AND HOME THEATER SYSTEM
POWER
Naim Uniti Atom All In One Music System: bit.ly/NaimAtom
Musical Fidelity Integrated Amp: bit.ly/M5si
LOUDSPEAKERS
Q Acoustic Concept 300: bit.ly/C300wsA
Klipsch Heresy IV: bit.ly/heresyiv
Jamo S809: amzn.to/356tnK5
SPEAKER STANDS
Kanto Bookshelf Speaker Stands: bit.ly/Kanto26
SolidSteel Speaker Stands: bit.ly/SolidAA
TURNTABLES
Audio Technica LP140XP: amzn.to/33OfgXO
Cambridge Audio Alva: bit.ly/AlvaCA
RECORD PLAYER CARTRIDGES
Ortofon 2M Black Cartridge (best): bit.ly/BLKAA
HEADPHONES
Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless NCX Headphones: bit.ly/WH1000xm4
SOUNDBARS
SENNHEISER AMBEO: bit.ly/35yLQO1
TOP SMART TVs
LG 8K TV: bit.ly/LG8K99TV
Hisense H9G: bit.ly/H9GTV
TCL 6 Series: amzn.to/35Vn9NO
BLUETOOTH / DESKTOP SPEAKERS
Naim Mu-so V2: amzn.to/33ASZxI
Klipsch The Fives: bit.ly/fivesUS
Kanto YU: bit.ly/YUdesk
► SHOP OUR LIVING ROOM
ARTICLE LEATHER CHAIR: bit.ly/NirvanaChr
ARTICLE SOFA: bit.ly/2HI6cMH
ART: bit.ly/howfaryt
TV / MEDIA CABINET: bit.ly/BDIMEDIA
EVERYTHING ELSE: bit.ly/ARdecor
► STAY CONNECTED
SUBSCRIBE & RING THE 🔔 bit.ly/RobinsonYT
JOIN THE CREW: bit.ly/ARobMbr
INSTAGRAM: bit.ly/AndRobIG
BUSINESS INQUIRIES: bit.ly/andrewbiz
FTC: This video is not sponsored. Some links above are affiliate, meaning we make a small percentage if you buy through the link but it won't change the price for you! Thank you for helping to support the channel.
@sonyglobal
#sony #audio #hifi
*This video is nearly 4 YEARS OLD (published Nov 2020), so if you are just now discovering it, I'm aware the price has changed*
I tried to liked this receiver, but after listening for to it 30 minutes or so, ( I know it's quick but I personally thought that my 80$ Phillips micro theater sounded better), I just couldn't enjoy it. IME, I think a vintage unit would be much better for this price. However, the internals are impressive, and the unit has a fairly big transformer and a discrete output stage. Definitely impressive for the price. I believe that around this price point there is a Yamaha 2 channel receiver that retails for 150$.
@@a.9792 Appreciate you sharing your experience. I'll look into the Yamaha.
@@phantasm1004 You are probably right, but I usually tend to get headaches after hearing a sound that wears me out, so I didn't try the unit for too long of a period. I did use a mixture of music, but certain frequencies were either "rolled" off or somewhat buried. It could be my speakers too, but they are fairly decent, ( Paradigm Atom v.2s), and performed better with a cheaper "class d" micro home theatre.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews I believe A. is referring to the Yamaha R-S202. I use one for my bedroom system. I would like to hear your opinion of it. I have it paired with some Polk Audio Monitor 40 Series ll.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Bought one Andrew (sony) yet to hook it up tho. Appreciate your review on this budget piece as there are not enough reviews of budget stereo gear. I'll try mine with already purchased Klipsch r51
And just like that the price went up on all three sources.
By 70% but gotta give sony one thing they are giving speakers away right now check it out. I'll scoop them up now and wait till they get back on line or buy another reciever. Price gouging bites.
@@larryh.4629 Truth: Advised a friend to get Sony's Core series SS-CS3 mini-towers (together with STR-DH190 receiver and turntable), and when I listened to his newly-assembled system, had to run out and get those speakers myself. Yes, at a near-give-away price. And worth way more.
What speakers were you referring to,@@larryh.4629?
@@jasonholmes5994 the sscs5 were down to $73 again they are parked in my corner till I find a use for them but man how can ya go wrong I can afford to sit on them awhile.
$88 I'm guessing that's still a heck of a bargain I finally hooked mine up last week just to sample they are nice for the price ya know a yr ago you could get the sscs5 plus the Sony strdh 190 for $112 on Amazon like 1 day after Christmas then they jumped to $168 for the amp alone. I'll hold with the cargo backup might just be a boatload of these suckers that won't be on-time for the holidays and
Just the fact that you can buy a new receiver for $100 that doesn't suck is amazing.
Agreed!
Before this video I bought the DH-190 and paired it with a pair of Klipsch R-15m, a google chromecast audio for streaming music via WiFi instead of bluetooth; and analog connection with my Hisense H8G. I couldn't be happier with the results in the beginning of my HiFi audiophile journey. Greetings from Mexico.
Hola!
@@KristiWright Hola Kristy y Andrew, muchas gracias por sus videos!
I purchased one of these back in Feb 2020 from Amazon for $128. So far, it has been very reliable. I have three devices attached: Audio Technica LP120XUSB turntable, Cambridge AXC35 CD player, and my Samsung TV. It outputs to a pair of Triangle Borea BR03 speakers connected with 14 gauge speaker wires. **To me**, everything I've outputted through this setup sounds great.
I keep the unit on 24-7 so it's always warmed up ready to play, and I keep the "Pure Direct" feature on. This disables bass and treble controls as well as on-screen display to reduce "noise" and for a more flat EQ. I don't know what the highest volume level is because I hardly ever need to turn the volume up to 30. In my environment, 20-25 is plenty loud.
I could've bought something more "substantial," but I really wanted something simple with only stereo output. The only "fancy" thing it has is Bluetooth connectivity that I tested only once. It was fine. I prefer connecting everything with physical cables, so I also keep a mini-to-RCA in case I want to connect my computer or mobile device, but it's nice to know the feature is there if I ever need it.
I agree that the speaker connections are annoying, but you only have to deal with them once.
I bought this about a year ago after my ‘78 Pioneer started having issues. I didn’t even know you could even get a modern 2-channel only receiver! I stumbled upon it at Best Buy just walking passed it. I love this receiver! I paid $80 open box. Someone must have thought it was surround sound. Lucky me!
I just bought this unit for my shop. Driving a pair of Boston towers and works great. Its nothing amazing but its clean and loud which is all we needed in an auto mechanic shop.
Exactly. Bluetooth + an MM input for vinyl + a tuner + extra RCA inputs for $100 new is a deal. You're not going to get reference quality sound, but you'll like what you get.
I love that y’all dip into more affordable equipment. Actually, I’m sending this one to a couple of friends looking to get into the hobby. Thanks!
Appreciate you watching and sharing!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews I'm scared to get anything lower than 200 is there anything in the 200-300 daollar range you could recommend and how much better would it be than these sub 200 dollar amps like the one in this video? I'm speaking for the Emotiva airmotiv b1+ speakers that is. Thanks
I bought this receiver for my daughter, then gave her some hand-me-downs. An old Sony DVD player, some 8” Cerwin Vega speakers and a Pioneer PL512 turntable. It sound pretty good and is way better than my first stereo was.
$169 now. Mine just arrived this evening. For the price, it can’t be beat. I’m running it through a pair of old Bang&Olufsen RL 140 speakers and it’s just a gem
I’m glad you’re enjoying this receiver so much. However I have to ask, the cable connector ends that go into the receiver should be pins? Or banana? Or just bare wire? I would really appreciate if you could tell me as I’ve been searching the internet for this an couldn’t find a clue. Planning to get this receiver with a pair of Elac debut 5.2’s and an Audio Technica turntable. Cheers!
@@Rayzur. Just bare wire. 12 gauge and smaller work best
@@Rayzur. I was able to get 16 gauge wired in with little fuss, FYI. Just got to make sure your twist game is on point haha. I agree with 7rays though, go with 12 gauge if you are able
Thank you guys a lot for the answers!
I’m currently waiting for this as I just ordered the receiver along with Polk audio speakers. I’m hoping that these will help make my turntable sound astronomically better. I’ve been using 100 dollar powered speakers while the sound wasn’t horrible I noticed some instruments would lack in sound like certain cymbals on the drums and what not.
I've had the DH190 for about a year now, which I use with my Fluance RT-81, and it's such a nice system that doesn't break the bank. My speakers are a bit trash (some second-hand JBLs that are so uninteresting that I don't even remember the model), and I'm looking to slap some new bookshelf speakers on it soon. As a non-audiophile, I'm extremely happy with it. It looks plenty good and let's be real: As much as the connectors on the back are a bit cheap, you hook them up once and then barely think about them until you need to move the system.
I've recommended the DH190 to friends and family, and I'm going to keep doing it until they stop making 'em, or something even better shows up at the same price point. It's proof positive that you don't need to spend a ton of money to have a good time listening to music!
Why is your B-roll so unbelievably pleasing to watch?
Because we're GD professionals :) Also, thank you.
I just bought one these a month or so ago along with a pair of Sony SSCS5 3-Way-Driver Bookshelf speakers. I hooked up to a refurbished Dual 1218 turntable. The whole system works fantastic. The Bluetooth feature is a plus. I'm certainly not a guru when it comes to amps, turntables and such, but it's perfect for what I need and want right now.
I have been interested in HiFi audio and home theater for a while but never knew where to start. Since finding your channel a few months ago I quickly subscribed and once I saw the Jamo s803 HCS deal for only $220 I grabbed it immediately. I paired it with a STR-DH590 and fell in love with my favorite songs and movies all over again. I got the whole system for just under $400 and I never thought a system so cheap could sound so good. Thank you for making these videos.
So glad we could be of help! Enjoy your system!
I bought this receiver ($99) about a month ago and pair of Klipsch R-51M ($144). I’m not an audiophile, but it sounds great to my ears and I’m very happy.
That's all that matters! Thanks for watching!
Pssst... you're an audiophile. Audio=sound; phile=love. You love sound, you're an audiophile.
Thank you for doing this review, I am certain you are only 1 of two or three respectable reviewers that have given an actual critical analysis of this inexpensive product. Well done. Thanks for engaging the “budget” audiophile crowd.
We try to include everyone on this channel. Thanks for watching!
I have the Sony STRDH190 since march, paired with a pair of Polk Rt16's and a Project debut iii turntable. Good volume, detailed sound and has bluetooth. A real bang for the buck.
I personally use this receiver paired with Klipsch's R51-M bookshelf speakers. It produces a pleasing sound for sure. It is hard to find in-depth reviews of this product, so this video got me excited!
I have to say I was totally shocked to see you doing a review my receiver! I just sold this receiver to a friend of mine because I purchased a older NAD integrated amp which I am satisfied with but to be honest I don't really see much difference in sound quality from the Sony although I didn't do a head-to-head test. The Sony is definitely worth what I paid.
Andrew, I'm using the Sony-790, exclusively for audio, with two Sony tower front speakers, and a Sony 10" sub woofer in my small space. As an audiophile from the mid 1970's, I cannot believe how good this system sounds!
I purchased this unit this spring. I have been more than satisfied with it.
Nice!
I have had one since July and I run 2 8inch box speakers. No flaws that I have had. It is GREAT for the price!
I bought one today for $130 with curbside pickup. It sounds great. I have it paired with a $79 DAC/digital preamp from Amazon that uses a Sabre 9018. To complete this little experiment, I use a pair of bookshelf speakers that I designed and built (anodized aluminum cone woofer and dome tweeter).
I stream FLAC lossless music and upgrade sound from a cheap CD player (coaxial connection). Makes a great home office system for many purposes.
I just replaced my 25 year old Sony amp with the amp in this video. The improvement was DRAMATIC! My old Sony was telling of its death for years now with a hum and dropping out a channel occasionally. The sound of this new Sony is incredible, with great detail, soundstage imaging, and clean power.
Glad to hear you're enjoying it!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews It was a total surprise to have that sound upgrade, did not expect any noticeable sonic upgrade for $100 bucks!.....and I got to experience the emotions of that "first time". Do you remember the first time you installed an audiophile system in your home....and you played your favorite album? The room filled with music, incredible sounding music...it was an angelic experience. When I plugged the new Sony amp in I got that same emotion again, as the first time...and a little tear...:)
I've owned two DH-190s bought new in early 2019 at $129 at Best Buy. One lives in my bedroom with SS-CS5's and the other in my home office paired with Polk T50s. This receiver is about the best entry level 2 channel MODERN receiver you can buy. The review is spot on. For a low cost unit, it's performance is solid. The Bluetooth audio is quite good, and it pairs effortlessly. My old analog sources which include a Pioneer CT-41 cassette deck sound great. The receiver doesn't color the sound. It has discrete outputs which is surprising considering the price point. My two have been in daily use for over a year (and much more use being that I am now working from home) and have been trouble free. The only weak point is the single chip FM receiver. No "real" antenna connector and while it sounds good on strong stations, if FM is important to you, may want to look at connecting a component tuner of higher quality. Otherwise it is a true good value for 2 channel stereo that isn't some cheap plastic crap from China sound bar or risking it on a used older 2 channel receiver.
I'm just really getting into audio and you're the first one I've subscribed to. I've just ordered the Sony Ss-CS5's a few days ago to pair with my turntable, I'm excited! Will be better than my sound bar for sure!
Have fun, Austin!!
I can personally speak on this receiver, as I bought one about a year and a half ago as my bedroom amp.
With Klipsch R-15M speakers, it is pretty darn good. I can really crank it to loud volumes and keep pretty good sound quality. I often open up the bedroom windows and let music out while I'm on the patio, and there's certainly enough volume there.
I originally picked it up because of the bluetooth pairing ability and the fact that I wanted to hook up my Thorens TD190 in my bedroom, without needing a separate phono pre-amp, and I have had very little to complain about. I haven't had as much luck pairing further away as you seem to have, but the phono pre is pretty darn good for a non-separate.
Agreed with the disappointment with the speaker connnections and the lack of a subwoofer RCA out. I'm sure they were left out to keep cost down. But at that price, for a brand new piece of electronics, it's nearly a steal. For music on a budget, it's a real good buy, especially for the bluetooth, as long as you aren't far away. If you need an all-in-one unit to play vinyl on a budget, you can't go wrong. It's not going to replace equipment hundreds of dollars more, but for an all-in-one solution for home audio on the cheap, it's a bargain.
This and the 1080... I swear Sony has some mad genius engineer with some serious component secrets.
Got the DH190 and CS5 combo last Black Friday for this price. Absolute steal. Also it never gets hot!
Glad you're enjoying it!
I purchased one of these receivers based on your review, which pretty much hit the nail on the head. I bought one to listen to while my 40 year old outstanding Kyocera R-651 is in the shop for cleaning and updating. It is remarkable how different the two receivers sound, even though the Kyocera has 65 watts per channel, the Sony 100….it’s the circuitry, of course, the Kyocera being known for it’s full, warm, detailed sound. As you described, the Sony is “thin on the high end at higher volumes” and feels like “it’s working hard” at rock music volumes. Exactly. I’m driving 4 Klipsch Heresy’s, easily as they are very efficient. The Bluetooth works great, and the remote is good, but takes a bit of time to learn. Yes, the fm antenna stinks, and the speaker hookups are just adequate. Other than that, it should serve me well, In it’s temporary role.
Thanks. 😎
You wouldn't happen to be selling the Sony at a bit of a price reduction when you get the Kyocera back from the shop would you?
I've had it for just over two years now and it's fantastic. With a built in phono pre-amp and Bluetooth, you really can't go wrong for under $200
Old Denon Receiver from Goodwill does the job for me NICELY. Some of those Used receivers are a great options for music listening without all the extra flash. Sometimes you just want good clean output for your 2 speakers.
Wish I'd have caught this video 11 months ago because they definitely are not 99.99 anymore.
Hi Andrew, love the channel! I’m really impressed with the fact that you review equipment from all price points and not just higher end stuff. I would love a video on how to buy loudspeakers considering the multitude of variables involved in the the process. Probably the biggest variable being that a listening room at a stereo store is most likely going to be vastly different than at home.Keep up the great work! Thanks.
I've got the STRDH190 paired with two Polk S15s (maxed out at 100W but haven't clipped yet), and a 100W 8 inch slim monoprice subwoofer. I pieced together this "HiFi" system to play vinyl off of a Fluance RT85 and I couldn't be happier with what I've arrived at for my small room. This is the first system I've assembled on my own time and dime and I really think the DH190 Hits every mark for first timers. From what I've gathered from others and my own ears, the S15s are muddy on the lower end, so the monoprice sub was brought in to fill what they miss. The bluetooth feature is dope too, it automatically turns on your system when you connect on any device, which is such a cool feature. I highly recommend the DH190 if you're not looking to drop +300.
I am new to this and have this receiver with a RT85 on the way. Do you use built in phono preamp or a external pre?
@@ToneChaser79 I just use the built in pre amp. I’d personally get a nicer amp with a really good phono stage, like a denon 600ne, before i’d mess with external preamps.
How did you hook up your sub to the receiver?
99...
this costs 230 euros in Greece and that is a black Friday price, normally sold for 270
Thank you for the review! Our old stereo system (from the 80's) bit the dust and we've been researching a replacement. Bought this yesterday and now with your recommendation we've purchased the Fluance speakers. Appreciate the help as I'm no audiophile but definitely a vinyl junkie and we wanted something to play all our records on. Can't wait to get it all setup.
I have had one of these receivers for a little of a year and I highly recommend. I currently use it for my 2.1 setup on my desktop PC.
I got the str-dh190 bought back in 2018 and i love this receiver.
It's sound great and i have a old Philips record player and it perform quite well.
I will recommend this one indeed if you have a low budget.
Hey, I just got this hooked up yesterday, having no idea before buying it what anyone thought. Had a long break and wanted to listen to vinyl again. Well I can tell you that to get started, it’s just fantastic. I hooked up Klipsch 600 m speakers and a Denon dp 300 turntable. I can’t say enough for a receiver that I paid 87 dollars. I tell you it rocks. So if you want to get into it but don’t have a lot of dough, it’s totally worth doing.
Hi. Where did you find it for 87$?
@@narrvick at the thief shop
Andrew, your channel is the best hi-fi channel on UA-cam, hands down. There are a lot of well qualified reviewers on UA-cam, but the quality of your videos is way superior. I noticed you pay attention to aesthetics, and you like photography and arquitecture. That's probably why your videos are so well composed. Also, you have very good communication skills together with a great voice and trendy look. Nobody else comes close to the quality of your videos. Keep it going. Good job!
Wow, thanks. That means a lot to me and Kristi. Thank you!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Sorry I forgot Kristi, I know she play a big role in the production. They say there's always a great woman behind a great man,... Good job, Kristi.
I purchased a Sony STRDH190 to power a pair of DynAudio speakers. Yeah, it functioned, but the sound quality was poor. Currently you can get it from Amazon at $149. I replaced it with a Denon DRA-800H at $500 which sounds fantastic. So yeah, the Sony is cheap, but so is the sound. I highly recommend that if you care about sound, spring the extra bucks. The Sony ended up at Goodwill.
It’s seriously disingenuous to compare a $149 receiver to a $500 receiver.
I appreciate you, Andrew. If not for this video, I wouldn't have made the purchase. I wanted a second system but had decided I couldn't afford it and that this couldn't possibly be a solution. I made the purchase, and the reality is, the music from this receiver is enjoyable and adequately powered. The Bluetooth connectivity is a snap. Thanks!
Excellent and responsive remote for ALL functions. I never touch the knobs that folks complain about. Apple streaming very good to my old ears.
Thanks for the review as it validated my purchase of this receiver a yr ago and paired it with the Paradigm Atom SE bookshelf speakers you had recommended as one of your top 10. My experience was like yours, it worked well and I passed it on to my son who uses it daily. Great to see a review of such an accessible piece of equipment.
I love the simplicity plus bluetooth. Perfect for casual listening.
I bought this a year ago. It replaced my vintage kenwood receiver. I like it more than the vintage gear. I stream and records, those are the two listening methods. It fits the bill..That being said I will upgrade one day. It pushes 4 speakers and sounds decent. I’ve determined my audio obsession is best focused on my quality of pressings, rather than gear.....for the time being 😳
I got Sony 1080 after watching your review. Worth every cent!
So glad you found our review helpful. Thanks for watching!
Bought this receiver for my dad, whose Pioneer from 1986 finally crapped out this year (it was a wedding gift!)
The only thing I find irritating about it personally, for a receiver that cost 129.99 CAD, is the knobs on the front aren't buttery smooth but aren't clicky either. They just feel like they're bound to get stuck. The input knob also feels like it's backwards, turning clockwise scrolls through the inputs counter-clockwise and it drives me nuts.
But I haven't heard a single complaint from my dad, who's the one actually using it. He has a big CD jukebox that he likes to listen to on shuffle, a turntable and a DVD player as well, and the receiver manages to complement his Bose 301 Type IV speakers surprisingly well.
this is now $170 is it still worth the money, or there are better options
Back in the early 90's, I had a capacitor go down in my Dynaco. Just wanted something to get going again and bought the Sony equal at that time, same spec's.It served me so well, I didn't replace it until it died many, many years later. Great deal. We all don't need McIntosh amps (but may still want them!!!!).
Good review.
*Thank you for posting this, means a lot to me that you noticed my question*
Big man out here with the best questions haha
I was pleased that the bookshelf speakers fit in the HDTV stand that I bought from a Walmart. I hooked this Sony receiver to my Vizio HDTV and the sound sounds way better than the Bose TV speaker I had.
What a great review ! Budget is not on every youtube channel nowadays. Unfortunately, it's around 200$ in my country so I will be on the prowl for a discount. Thanks again !
Been running this receiver for 2 years now with 4 Sony Core Series bookshelf speakers. A Fluance RT-82 turntable and a Sony CD/DVD player I got from a thrift shop. Its been a solid system so far. My listening room is small, 12x10. I've cranked the volume on it a few times when nobody else was home and it sounded pretty decent. I started out using a separate pre-amp, an ART DJPRE II and I found the internal preamp on this receiver to be comparable and now run my turntable on that instead.
I have one. The radio is completely worthless but the sound from CD or other sources is nice and clean. No complaints for the price.
I love this one and it’s what I currently have as a starting point!
That's awesome! It's really a good stereo receiver!
Very nice review!!! Thanks for a fair and impartial opinion without the industry-standard criticism of a “basic” receiver. It’s refreshing to see your honest assessment, as opposed to snarky, arrogant magazine writers.
Just got this for 180 after tax. Man what is the world coming too
Your voice and A/V production value in general are fantastic; Beautiful in fact! I'm very impressed! Thank you for your professionalism sir.
Well shit , I was going to grab one for my daughter to take to college. Now it’s $170.
She should buy it herself
Yamaha has a competitor in the range thats pretty good too.
I have an old Sony receiver (sans BT) similar to this hooked up with a Chromecast Audio and these Sony bookshelf speakers and it is the BEES KNEES. Excellent casual low-mid volume listening. The clarity on the bookshelves is impressive, especially for the price. My only gripe is the look of the woofer cone. It doesn't do the speaker any favors.
I'm seriously considering this. This would be perfect for a standalone vinyl ripping setup. Just add an SD recorder.
Thank you for doing this review! I bought this stereo receiver over the weekend at Best Buy for $99 and spent 5 times the money on a pair of Klipsch speakers, also on sale. If I ever figure out 5-2, 7-2, or 9-2; then one day, maybe, I would upgrade...or maybe buy the Denon 2-channel stereo receiver with all the bells and whistles. I enjoy the old school stereo setup, because I am defintely old school by both age and preference. The sound is simply amazing for these ears, with the Bluetooth a very nice bonus. I really enjoy your reviews on the channel. Thanks again!
Seems like the price isn't "Sub" $100 anymore. When I first watched this video about 1-2 weeks ago, it was $128.00 on Amazon. Now it's $148.00. Almost $50.00 increase in less than ONE month. I'm sure there's something out there just as good for $150.00 or better.
I totally agree. This is the best 2ch stereo receiver you can buy for that price. I bought it just before xmas just to play music with my 40year old vintage gear (Dual turntable, Nakamichi 660zx, Wharfdale E70 speakers). The sound quality was decent but not enough bass in comparison to the my old Sansui 9000 which conked out few months ago. Then again I paid $1200(Canadian) for the Sansui 40 years ago! However I added a subwoofer (Polk SW10) two weeks ago to boost the bass and I couldn't be happier. Now it sounds like a high end system with balance and clarity. The best part is it cost me only $300 ($149 each at Best Buy). What I like about Sony receiver is it's simplicity and ease of use. The bluetooth is the best I've seen so far as it pairs with any device instantly. I also tried Yamaha RS 202 (same price $149) earlier which is a decent receiver but had a hard time pairing with bluetooth, which was very frustrating. All I can say is I'm very happy with Sony receiver, especially after adding the subwoofer!
Thanks for the added notes, this is useful as I'm considering the STR DH190. You mentioned adding a sub, how did you set that up, seeing that the receiver does not have a sub-woofer out?
Reviewing this takes guts. Glad you did it. So 1% thd is nonsense. This means 50 watts at lower thd. They should rate it at 4 ohms too. Here is your challenge. Build systems at key price points. Amp speaker and source. 500. 800 1000 2000 etc. that is still the way people would want to buy. Talk about yes you can use this with streaming sources.
Oh and btw vintage is normally much more hiss and noise than new gear.
Again great review category. So what about the best $200 amp. The last minute was priceless. Keep it up you guys have a real chance to be the superstars of common sense audio and video reviewers. I know 40 years in the biz and I have a nose for bs. Not smelling that here. Keep extending your reach.
Got one a week ago. I love it. They don't sell them in Russia for some reason (no faith in Russian stereo enthusiasts from Sony), only a few retailers bring them from EU and sell on local ebay.
It would be interesting to revisit this and compare performance and impressions vs the vintage Pioneer you purchased. Both, at the time, were in the same price range. I think this might give valuable information to someone on the fence with either going new or vintage.
I have an Adcom 555 system, Braun Atelier, multiple vintage pioneer receivers, a Kenwood stack and a couple Onkyo's, and I find I use the Sony more than the rest combined. It's easy to setup and use, sounds decent, and the bluetooth works well. I paid $104 as an open box at a big box store. It punches above it's cost, easily. Is it better than my other systems at high volumes? Maybe, maybe not. Is it the one I recommend to everyone that asks me for audio advice? Absolutely. Thank you for your review, I feel you hit all of the highs and lows on this receiver, just like all of your reviews. Thank you!
Would you get this or the Yamaha 202?
Good on Sony for bringing 'entry-level' back to a sane price point and thanks, Andrew, for reviewing it.
I'd still go with used, though. Prices for vintage entry-level Pioneer, Marantz and NAD gear in particular are way too high for what they are, but plenty of Kenwood (Trio in the UK), Sony, JVC, Technics and Hitachi amps and receivers from circa 1980 can be had for less than $100. I've even managed to get a Luxman L-114A amp for £80, which is around the $100 mark. Top tip: the original NAD 7020 receiver typically goes for a lot less than the 3020 amp, yet it's literally a 3020 and 4020 tuner in one box and it has better build quality too!
Vintage is good, but you have to find a good tech to check the equipment, some of which are touching 50 years and more. If you can do the job it is a big advantage.
Great review! I am glad that a stereo at that cost can sound decent. It could replace the new, but older vintage high end home theater stereos are a great deal too.
Thanks!
The Sony is a decent receiver for someone just starting out, especially with the included phono input. You can definitely get more for the same amount of money in used receivers, though. Ebay is the place, and make sure the seller has stated working condition, has good feedback, and has a good return policy. I paid $100 for my '95 Kenwood KR-A5070, which uses all discrete components in the amp/preamp, along with a massive power supply---you won't get that at $100 new. The specs are far better too
Sony CS5, not C55. I've done multiple reviews on these and put them up against many other bookshelf speakers in the same price range and some more expensive. For me the Sony CS5 can't be beat in their price range. Just depends, I've had $500 bookshelves that didn't impress. Expensive audio gear doesn't always sound better and most of the time if it does its very little improvements for lots of money.
I issued a correction elsewhere here on the comments re: the speaker model.
I agree with @lowAudio Review about the CS5s, I paired two sets of them with the CS8 center and a pair of the CSE Atmos speakers for a budget home theater setup. I initially splurged on a $500 SVS PB-1000 but am without that now as I returned it and ordered a PC-2000. I was impressed with the sound quality before, even at reference levels, but was surprised at how decent they still sound without the sub. They'll obviously be much improved when the new SVS arrives.
Got a Sony str-dh130 for $25.00 this weekend. It sounds great with the Sony ss-h10 bookshelf speakers that I got for $15.00. Another bonus the headphone jack on the receiver is able to drive my HiFiman HE400i 2020’s.
I got an old Pioneer for 10 bucks, 100 watt stereo 7.1
Lucky dog
Two years ago those bookshelf Sonys sold me on a complete Atmos setup using them as surround and Atmos speakers. It was all Sony minus subwoofer. I have a sub with two 12's. I since replaced the towers with 1.6 QR's and moved a Sony CS tower to the center. The $300 STR-dh790 seems to have no problem pushing the Magnepans. I've been looking for a deal on a better way to drive them but haven't stumbled on anything yet.
I have an Atmos setup with two pairs of the CS5s, the CS8 center and the CSE Atmos speakers paired with an SVS sub. Super impressed with the whole setup, considering the amount I spent. Would like to see Andrew compare a complete Core Series (CS) surround setup to his previously recommended Jamo budget pick.
I did consider buying Sony STR DH190 for my first budget amplifier. When I tried get one it was sold out or it was marked up above retail price. I went with a Yamaha R-S202 for 129 dollars new about a year ago instead. The Yamaha R-S202 is often compared to Sony STR DH190 with online reviews that I have read. The Yamaha has 100w per channel into 8 Ohms like the Sony STR DH190. I was pretty happy with it regarding features and performance. The R-S202 is the only contender that I am aware of with the Sony in terms sound quality and features.
Great review Andrew. I bought this recently and paired it with the Elac Debut 2.0 and it sounds great. It sits in my home office and for my first 2 channel system I really enjoy the performance.
Can you do a review on the Yamaha R-S202D ? Its around the price of that sony! Thanks
Most receivers sadly never work for what I want from an amplifier. Equalizer is key. I need to have the ability to customize the sound in any way I want. The preset EQs in every receiver I’ve tried all lack any real change in low and high ends. And I’m sorry, but there’s so much more than low and highs when it comes to music.
I'm wondering where you'd find this receiver for $99.
It's already 200 Euros over here in Germany. Via the Amazon link you provided it's found for around $ 280.
Our prices are always in USD so your link to the unit in Germany or any other country is likely to (always) be different. The price has fluctuated due to supply and demand since the video aired on November 29 which is outside of our control. I assume it will drop again once supply increases or demand decreases as it was $99 for several months prior to this going live.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews totally agree. Plus a buck and a euro figure that exchange rate plus shipping & import fees there goes any bargain .
In it's 330 euros, and has been at that price since ages.
It is not a rule just personal thinking but I presume that this stereo amp is great for PC stereo sound equipment. It is cool for me that I watched this video via the same Sony receiver (acoustically, though). Very accurate vocal and sound. Little, little gem - it is for real.
Here in the UK it is £189.00 cheapest price! at Richer Sounds.
I bought this about a year ago when I decided to get back into home audio after a 25+ year hiatus. Still have Sony products from the 80s and 90s that work perfectly so I figured what the heck! I paid $128 just to see what a cheap modern receiver would sound like with some cheap Klipsch speakers integrated with a cheap, old 10" JBL sub. I am still giddy. Thanks for your input into my decision and a few more expensive ones that I've made since!
And sony will still give the schematics and sell reasonably priced parts for those 80s products. Their support is unrivalled
they should have dropped the FM radio and added an optical/HDMI input and maybe a sub out even if it means adding $20 to the price
I would still pay the extra for the Pioneer SX-450 over the black plastic Sony. Thanks for the review. Didn't realize there was a new 100 watt receiver for under $100.
Why is Kevin Spaceys son giving me Home theatre advice
Of course the sound in this man's videos would be full and perfect.
Yea I don't think these sound so good on my speakers.
I really appreciate reviews for things that are affordable. Thanks man
In Germany it's about 160 - 170. There is the Onkyo TX - 8220 and the Yamaha R S202D. And of course the digital amps by SMSL, Sabaj, Nobsound,... But here in Europe, nothing for less than 150 Euro.
Haha,in croatia,where i am it cost almost 300 usd,to be exact 289 usd
I just ordered this receiver to pare with the speakers I just also ordered, the Sony tower Core Series Dual 5" 3-Way speakers. I read good reviews about those to. I got everything to connect to my at-lp60xbt turntable to get a more fluid sound. I think it all matches my just non audio-file love of vinyl.
January 2021, this thing now retails for about $200...
Inflation due to the Fed printing ton of stimulus cash is kicking in full speed :o
Got mine a year ago for $150 as a garage receiver. Might be bringing it into the house to pair with my turntable.
The Yamaha R-S202BL is around the same price and it is also surprisingly good for the price. My point of reference is my main stereo system that features a McIntosh amp that is 50 times more expensive.
Not all budget amplifiers sound like rubbish.
Crazy its 200 dollars now 😭😭😭 still gonna get it
As somebody else said:
It's the same old deal on cheap receivers: the power supply is easily overtaxed, the output filters are at the edge of insufficiency, and the output semiconductors are easily overdriven. Attach a pair of speakers that might go to 5+ ohms at some frequencies, and the whole thing, power supply, filters, semiconductor operating points, all drop off the edge of their design points.
Do not think that you can get away with 4 or 6 ohm (nominal) speakers with most of these. And don't expect good sound if your speakers drop well below 8 ohms at various frequencies (most do). If your impedance is low, you'll run out of current capacity. If your impedance is high, you'll run out of voltage on peaks. That 100 watt rating, at 8 ohms measured with a 1KHz sine wave into a resistor, in actuality quickly degrades to ~20% of that in music transient capability with real speaker loads. You can expect these amps to develop a frog in their throat with complex, louder music. That said, if you want to listen at elevator music SPL's all day long, these are the cat's booty.
These receivers are like cheap, shiny street shoes, in a world that appreciates running shoes, Capezios, and climbing boots.
Caveat cheapskate.
NOOOO! How dare you not buy $12,000 dollar amplifier!!
Your room looks so nice, it's like a CGI. 😅
All this and Bluetooth connectivity too! Not bad at all. I've been recommending this receiver and some basic bookshelf speakers (Dayton Audio, Pioneer, on up to ELACs - I'd love to hear the Fluance speakers with it) to friends for a few years now. Much better sound than *most* low end soundbars for TV sound, and then for simple 2-channel music playback. A great starter system, and for some all they will ever need. Many people don't want or don't have room for a 5.1, or 7.2 "system", but they want reasonably decent sound. Nice review.
If I didn't already have two older Pioneer receivers (one pre-HDMI and the other with dying HDMI inputs) that I'm using for 2-channel stereo in other rooms, I'd definitely consider this Sony.