I think the new line is terrific! Not perfect, of course, but all-around excellent products. I'm sure they are going to sell a TON of them. No question about it. Can't wait to buy one myself.
I believe your TA-VA777ES was the model Sony introduced as they were phasing out the TA-E9000ES which I used up through last Fall. Yes those generations of Sony receivers and processors were built very well. They seem to step back from trying to lead the market after those. Like you, I didn’t want to sacrifice sound quality for the latest feature set. -Jon
Just saw your review. Thanks. I currently use a Yamaha RX-A2A. Today I ordered a 5000ES after receiving email from Crutchfield saying they were in stock. It arrives Saturday so looking forward to listening to the new 360 Spatial Sound technology.
@@ripewave The RX-A2A is a very nice receiver and was a good match to my Klipsch RP-8000F. Now here comes the Sony STR-AZ5000ES with 360 SSM and I’m speechless. WOW. The Klipsch now sound more detailed, more defined, the lows are solid. Music takes a new meaning. Movies sound better than our Dallas/Ft Worth theaters! Last night we saw the first episode of The Last of Us and when the plane crashed, we swear it hit our roof! Goodness Gracious, the 5000ES is one impressive receiver. I’m keeping it. Street explosions felt like we were there.
Il pick up the 5000 to try the 360 sound mapping and their room correction, tv center channel and compare to my rz50 and dirac. Best buy has a huge return window period, so I'll probably test this thing out
That is great! Andrew Robinson just gave a glowing review of their 360 technology - saying that the positioning of objects is better than anything else he as heard. (Hopefully I have represented his assessment correctly - I was listening to his as my video was exporting form Premiere Pro.) His production work is first class, but we sometimes arrive at different conclusions. Therefore, I would really appreciate your opinion of their technology. -Jon
I was just thinking if I wanted to try that as well. Please do that and let us know. I wonder if I could combine with my avr and get the second height and a bunch of 360 surround speakers.
I think the speaker mapping technology to be the next big advancement for immersive audio. If it works (like it does with the trinnov) both rendering audio objects and upmixing to immersive setups could be rendered a lot more accurately accounting for the gaps in your system. So far we have Trinnov, Yamaha and now Sony doing speaker mapping. Hopefully Dirac and ARC jump in on this and add this capability to their room EQ. Audyssey as well.
Yamaha is doing it? Really? I own Denon 3700h for couple of years now, last month I bought Yamaha A6A Aventage receiver hoping for an improvement in audio...my god, calibration did not work at all, it did nothing to improve the sound, bass was lacking, it had no punch and was just weak - switcing to pure direct actually had little difference. Denon Audyssey on the other hand works miracles compared to Yamaha, without audyssey the sound does not have power, authority and again bass is lacking big time when I switch Audyssey on bass is controlled tight, and not OTT, Im not a bass heavy uuser, I just like it being tight and punchy. Yamaha let me down and I returned the receiver next day.
Dirac ART is forthcoming and I would be it will be a paid upgrade for AVR's that support Dirac live. This new Dirac enhancement will be huge and on par if not better than Sony I think.
Hi John, I think the STR-AN1000 is the successor to the STR-DN1080 instead of the STR-ZA1100ES. Nevertheless, great overview of Sony's new AV receiver line-up. Cheers, Tako
THANKS! Appreciate your Excellent intro to the NEW Sony AVRs....I am interested, in spite of the fact that I just bought a new Denon AVR to go with new Sony Bravia 77A80J, which has a COOL feature that will really improve/enliven Center Sound, you have to use an added Soundbar then you connect S OUT Line fm SBar to S IN on the 80J, then the SBar and TV's Screen Speakers all play at same time......I LOVE the Audio from the Screen actuators, but I wanted to turn off/remove my present C.Speaker [in5.1.2 setup] but just found out you can't do that presently - I'd have to not use my avr for 5.1.2 Audio.....BUT these new Sony ES AVR's would allow me to KEEP my present setup + use the GREAT Sound that emanates from the TV's Screen too. I would LOVE that.....but my present Center Speaker is mounted rt above the screen [angled down] but probably won't matter enough to bother me - the other great thing about the Sony TV's in screen speakers - extra special for me, being a Senior I don't hear certain sounds like I used to - they make Voices ALOT more understandable for ME! I now know the solution, i need to buy either one of the lower priced models, and then sell my Denon S760H. For me needs to you think the AN Model would suffice? TKS
thank you =) your detailed overview with every aspect helped me alot. I cant decide between Marantz Cinema 50 vs Sonys STR-AZ5000ES. My endgoal would be a 7.1.4 System. Do you have a personal recommendation ? The WAF is way higher in the Marantz in Silver it looks very nice compared to the standard Sony black block look from 1900 :D So i would need to tuck away the Sony ^^.
Both with deliver 7.1.4 of processing. The STR-AZ5000ES is going to power all 11 channels internally while the Cinema only provides 9 channels of amplification, so you will be 2 channels short until you can acquire an external 2-channel amps. So if you want an all-in-one box - the Marantz isn't going to get you to 7.1.4. You should list out your other criteria - decoding modes, input types, streaming support etc. Marantz is a far more comprehensive AVR with just about every standard feature included - AM/FM tuner, phono input, streaming, web and mobile apps. If the internal DACs, D.C.A.C IX calibration, 360 sound modes and overall sound quality that Sony offers is really good (don't know), they could tip the scale towards Sony despite some loses elsewhere. Otherwise Marantz is a safe bet. Jon
I think the STR-AZ5000ES is a really compelling product at that price, it's only competitor is the Emotive MR1, and that AVR only has HDMI 2.0, and the horrible EMO - Q room correction. The Sony has the very well reviewed 360 Spatial Sound Mapping from the HT-A9 and the Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX. I really want to get one of these, and i've never felt that way about a Sony AVR before.
Thanks for sharing that perspective. EMO-Q doesn't rate high in comparisons. Albeit, not much talk about DCAC until this week. I am hearing that it does well with positioning the immersive content in the 3D space. I think a few more similarly priced model exists from Marantz, Onkyo and others. I guess it depends on your criteria. -Jon
@@ripewave Andrew Robinson and Shane Lee had glowing reviews about the room correction, especially their 3D sound mapping technology, nothing else has that.
2000 $ range for 11-channel amp receiver is a sweet spot for most mainstream people who have invested in speakers and look alternative to soundbar. Sony ES5000 is a contender to beat. I'm waiting for the Onkyo RZ70 to come out and compete with Sony in an 11-channel receiver competition.
I'm thinking about getting the AZ1000ES, but am wondering if I can use my old 5 disc CD player with it? I also plan on using it for watching movies via bluray player or streaming via chromecast and listening to music via spotify.
Sure you can. Whether you connect via analog RCA, digital COAX or Optical, it should work. Those connections are all available on the Sony AZ1000ES -Jon
Sure you can. Whether you connect via analog RCA, digital COAX or Optical, it should work. Those connections are all available on the Sony AZ1000ES -Jon
That expression at the start of the video, lol, tells me Sony has something interesting here. I bet a lot of people are in my same shoes: not enough money for separates, yet love our current receiver - but need HDMI 2.1 for gaming, IMAX Enhanced, and any upgrade with sound immersion. The reason I was interested in Dirac Live is ultimately for a better 3d sound immersion in home theater and better sound quality in 2 channel. It seems Sony may be doing a better job of the former and to be seen how it really does with 2 channel; impressions on other channels have been positive. No phono input, no disable of amp stage (maybe?), no independent subs - but still has those interesting Sony features and quirks giving an overall personality. Jon is right, a head to head against Arcam & Denon/Marantz would be interesting. The 500ES looks like it will be taking my money this year, the price point and feature set is just too sweet.
Dale - If their approach to 3D / 360 sound calibration and playback is as good as some are saying, it will be a big win for them. However, they need to amp up the marketing and education on their technologies. The Sony website presents them with only basic details and it all starts to blend into the background. Since their highlights are proprietary Sony technology, they don't have the benefit of marketing from others - they need to drive strongly or get passed over. They need to point out how they are different and better - what does D.C.A.C IX do more then Audyssey, Dirac and others? -Jon
True - you need to determine your path to evolve your system. If you buy into an ecosystem - like the Sony wireless speakers, you lock yourself into Sony. Some focus on speakers and amps first as those have long lifespans while others start with receivers and basic speakers.-Jon
You know I am pretty excited to see Sony get back into the ES line although I am not sure this is really top end ES product. I am still using an Older Onkyo TX-NR5008 and I am wondering if the 5000 or 7000 would be a good replacement for that unit. I really just wanted a modern processor and just continue to use my NR5008 but that really doesn’t seem like the best solution. Love your channel.
Brian - Thanks for your encouragement. I enjoy sharing these details. The new Sony models will introduce immersive Atmos / dts:x to your system (provided you add some speakers). You have Front-Wide capability with the TX-NR5008 - are you using those channels? If so, that will push you to the 7000. Lots of options for you beyond Sony so it will come down to your full criteria. -Jon
@@ripewave Hey Jon it is an old school setup in our family room from 2010. We have Monitor Audio Silver S10 towers plus the monitor audio Silver center. The sub is an old Bob Carver Sunfire True Subwoofer Signature 10. Finally the rear surrounds are actually old B&W in walls that are located in our ceiling as it is an open family room with no back wall. So as you can see I am definitely not using all the channels. I would like to do some upgrades and get some better sound as far as more speakers or maybe dipole or bipole. I want the sound to be more encompassing and all around. I feel like it would be nice to have all the modern sound processing and it would be nice to have the eArc for my modern 75 inch micro led tv I have on the wall. The one thing is it seems like they don’t build them like they used to. The old NR5008 is built like a tank and has a huge toroidal main audio transformer and weighs over 55lbs.
Main questions in my mind right now: 1) Sony 360° Space RC versus Dirac Live RC, and 2) 11-channels on board amplification receivers in the same price performance competition segment, Sony vs Onkyo vs Denon.
Thank you. I am not sure if you have listen to the new Sony ES models mainly the 7000 series. If so do you have a comparison sheet for this like you have for some of the other AVR's you have done prior.
I had planned to get one in at the end of August, by that model was removed from Amazon since I last looked. I then turned focused to the HTP-1 from Monoprice as it had been unavailable for so long. Then I got the Arcam AV41 (next on deck) due to its similarities to the HTP-1 for head to head comparison. Hopefully, I can manage Sony next. -Jon
That would be great John. I enjoy you channel on how you evaluate features of each device. I am leaning toward the Arcam AVR31 as my next new AVR. I am selling a AVR850 and have always loved the sound of Arcam. I hear great things about the new Sony ES series and of course anthem as well.
I just ordered a new Sony ES5000 AVR. I hope it will be all it appears to be via other reviewers. The Arcam AVR 850 is still in the house and the Sony will have to outperform the AVR850 on many levels but sound is always paramount for me per purchase decisions. I will come back to this video and post my findings after a good few days of demo.
Hi John, I got the new ES5000 yesterday and now have it up and running I finished the room correction and did have to reach out to Sony for a few questions. So far so good, no noise at all. I love the spatial immersion far more impressive than the Arcam with Dirac. Being I do not have a HT room this is a great fit for me providing a great movie/TV experience. I love losing the external amplifier that I had with the Arcam. The back layout I really like over the Arcam and the connectivity seems high quality. The front panel is very well laid out and is nice you can do all your configuration either via your TV or the unit front panel. Build quality is outstanding. A few enhancements would be a bit more base management being they only provide 1 sub out so if you have multiple subs they all will be treated as a singular bass system. However as the rep from Sony indicated on Audioholics live stream most new higher end subs have DSP built in so one can tune your subs via your subs and not worry about that feature not being in the AVR. This probably made the software cost being a bit less as well. For my room multiple sub control isn't a big deal. I use two SVS PB4000's with come with a great App and DSP included. Some improvements I would like to see are the following. I wish the remote was a bit more robust per navigation and backlit. But once you learn it is fine. The front panel is very dim as well even set to bright. One is better utilizing the TV screen if viewing from a distance. But if you are using the front panel visibility is fine from a close proximity. The onscreen UI is very well laid out similar to Audyssey. I have to tweak the analog EQ a bit for music digital streaming and playing vinyl. I use Sony wireless noise canceling headphones so not concerned with a wired headphone jack. But I did contact Sony support and they answered the phone quickly with a human being online! They pointed out a few setting I need to be change to get a better setup for my system. The Arcam AVR850 is now for sale.
Another great comprehensive breakdown mate. This could have been a great receiver but I feel Sony missed the mark on this one. The design has not changed, 1 sub pre out is ridiculous and the proprietary technology keeps you tethered to Sony.
I feel the industrial design isn't bad, but still find the lack of update will hurt them. Sony doesn't change styles that often - so not a huge surprise. What is the big surprise is the lack of independent subwoofer outputs. That will certainly hurt them with many multi-sub enthusiasts. -Jon
@@ripewave yep, that's me thought exactly. Wanting ppl that are into separates to buy into their wireless sub is not gonna work. We in the separates world love bid subs and those Sony ones are not that good.
@@ripewave Just curious here, why does independent sub outs matter? Is that so you can have independent volume control between your two subs? Not sure why that would even matter? Can't imagine a scenario where you would want to have one sub at a different volume level than the other in a two-sub setup. Why would someone want to do that other than to just be able to simply say that they can?
@@wezzman1 those wireless subs actually hold a great deal of appeal. You'd be amazed at how many people don't want to put their sub up front with their equipment and want or need to locate it somewhere in the back of the room instead. Having the ability to easily do that with the new Sony wireless subs is an absolute godsend for many people that don't want to have to run a wire over to a sub - and especially not to two of them. Having the flexibility to put one or two auto-pairing wireless subs anywhere in a room just by giving them access to AC power is a huge selling point for Sony (along with now being able to do that with the wireless rears as well, even 100% wirelessly if you opt for the bigger, battery or AC powered and Atmos-enabled SA-RS5's). Customers are already heading out to stores to buy these new Sony receivers now for exactly that reason - something none of their competitors can offer yet. This is a new trend that is ramping up in the marketplace now and Sony is certainly out front in the lead on it. Expect to see far more in the way of wireless speaker options for surround sound setups going forward here for upcoming generations or receivers from just about all manufacturers that will soon be looking to match or even try and exceed what Sony has done with their 2023 lineup. Now, that may not hold the same appeal with the hard-core, died-in-the-wool audiophiles out there of course, but absolutley everyone ELSE loves that concept - and already wants to see more iterations of it going forward. Rest assured that three to five years out from now, you'll be seeing a LOT more in the way of wireless speaker options for home theater receivers - from everyone.
It has been long time since Sony made a processor. Possible that my Sony TA-E9000ES released in 1998 was the last one. A good number of brands have stopped making those. I wish that trend would reverse.-Jon
Question - lots of interest in the new Sony models despite only having a parallel subwoofer output (not independently controllable). Could it be that many don’t run multi-sub or care about running to that level? -Jon
I might pick up one of the cheap ones to do try something I heard of called scatmos where you add a second receiver to give more channels. I wish you would do a video on that I can’t find any yt vids on it, and the forums are so long and contradictory.
@@ripewave I understand but I want those features. If the receiver doesn't have it, it could be a deal breaker. Even the least expensive Denon 2.1 receivers have it.
Thanks for watching. To access Amazon music on a HEOS account, you will first need an AV Receiver or Processor that supports HEOS - so one from Marantz or Denon. Then it is as simple as downloading the HEOS app to your mobile device, selecting the "music" service with the (Amazon smile logo) and configuring your logon information for Amazon and it should play. If you have one of the new Sony AV Receivers, you will not run through HEOS at all. Instead, you will use the native Amazon Music app on your mobile device and connect via Airplay (for iOS devices) or Chromecast to connect to the Sony AVR. Jon
AN1000 FM reception is terrible, the single wire antenna does not get the job done Is there a FM antenna available that has that has that miniature 2 wire plastic plug in connector that gets good reception
I'd stay away from this crap. Cheap plastic design, useless room correction solution, when 360 mapping is activated, you get a loud hiss from most speakers. I'll take Denon X4800H over the STR-AZ7000ES any time.
I am reviewing the Sony in-house now. I was hearing noises when no source was playing and thought someone turned the heat on for the first time this season as it sounded like water and air bubbles. I latter found if I disconnect the Sony output, the noise disappeared. I will continue to investigate but I am concerned. I am not getting any noise when 360 mapping is enabled and music /movie is playing. - Jon
Always drooled over Sony ES products back in the day. Owned a couple of their ES carousel players and enjoyed them with no reliability issues. FF to 2023 and I’m disappointed a top of the line Sony ES level product has parallel wired subwoofer outputs. Cheap remote. No Auro 3D is a show stopper too. Interesting about dual center channel outputs in the highest level.. never seen that before. Not sure it’s even needed. Wireless speakers may be the future but as an an audio enthusiast who enjoys hi resolution audio, I’m not sure the technology is quite there yet with these Sonys. Obviously I’m not the niche market for Sony. I’ll pass on recommending this product unless it’s someone who meets the criteria you mentioned. Thanks for your review Jon. Keep ‘em’ coming’ my friend.
I don't think this one is for you - and it is not just the lack of Auro3D support. You live in the "premium" home cinema / enthusiast category. Wireless is convenient, but compression and induced latency will keep the wired approach sounding better until wireless differences are undetectable by our ears. Seems like a long ways off - but will improve over time. Albeit, good enough for many. Their center channel strategies may see a broader audience. Moving from TVs to projectors is a big jump, so this aims to improve the audio when a standard TV is used. How well does it work? Does it create other problems? The meshing with Bravia speakers seems like the least attractive (sonically) option - two centers (1 above, 1 below) seems like the best option. Seems so simple - wonder why others don't offer that solution. Jon
@@ripewave I don't think I would take issue with this product, Jon, if it were not for the fact that it is the famed ES "Elevated Series" from Sony with a reputation that only those who lived during the "glory years" of audio would know about. The build standard and options shown in your vid are not living up to those Japan era pieces. Basically, in my book, it's an ESINO--ES in Name Only. ;-)
@@jb.2986 they diluted the brand. So if Sony decides to produce a real ES product what do they call it? I just learned that the ES series that was introduced in 1965 originally was linked to the entire line of Sony Hi-Fi products as “Extremely High Standard” Always heard “Elevated Standard” May need to bring back the “R” series from the late 80s or “Series 1” from the late 90s.
I just learn myself - I am stand corrected too. And yes - your point is so valid. If you didn't live through the glory years, you don't have that reference and associated disappointment. -Jon
@@ripewave Isn't that the truth. I hate audio through Bluetooth. It's lossy. I bought an external DAC for headphones. It sounds amazing to my Sennheiser HD-599 🎧
Brian, I live in a mixed environment as most of my family is Japanese, and I am the American laying down the dollars for a new receiver. Oddly at this time in Japan Sony is unaware of these new releases. My family situation is complex with both JP & USA. The receiver should unite both worlds from one company it should be Sony.
Nuts - I wish I had an assistant. I kept checking the slides over and over and still missed that one. Thanks for letting me know. At least it wasn't wildly off. -Jon
@@ripewave better to make the price higher than it is than lower. like I said I think the AZ5000ES is a steal at $2,099 the Denon AVR - x6700h was $2,499 when it came out then was raised to $3000 then $3099
I don't know the impedance of your Nuance speakers, but I did find that the Sony STR-AZ7000ES will support the use of speakers with a 4- to 16-ohm impedance. Hopefully, someone can weight in that does...
Think Sony should of done HDR10+ for these new AV Receivers. Sony STR-AZ3000ES AV Receiver would of been alright for me but it has no Preouts, l like to add my Stereo Amp to Preouts of AV Receiver so l can use same front left & right speakers for separate music playback from Stereo Amp. I would not need features like Wireless surround capabilities
Agreed it should have HDR10+. Wireless surround is nice if you want to add a few wireless speakers to your wired speakers in places you don't have wires.
I was surprised by the no pre-out thing. A bit odd for the 3000 level. The wireless capability also forces you into the few available Sony options - convenient for some, restrictive for others. -Jon
So for the 5000es - my PC software doesn’t do dolby vision, my hdr10+ movies would resort to the lowest layer? Also would like to confirm if this is 7.2.4 capable.
It’s funny. I just bought the Onkyo 6100 and I replaced my 279 dollar Sony 5.2 receiver. I took the onkyo back. It wasn’t even close to having as well of a picture quality from my projector. Although the onkyo did have more to offer for the sound, I just couldn’t get over how washed out the onkyo was compared to the Sony.
John I am hearing this machine has DSP performance comparable to a Trinnov [Yes everyone please laugh at me]/ Check out Andrew Robinson's latest video. Andrew listened and could hear detail that is not there with the highest end Marantz, Onkyo, Pioneer, Yamaha etc similar priced. I look to the Gods and ask them take the amp out of the 7000ES and provide a processor for the pro, industry and installer crowd with XLR(s).
Yes - Andrew gave a glowing review. Many brands have abandoned their AV Processor separate models. Nothing from Sony, Denon, Onkyo, Pioneer, Integra or Yamaha in their latest rounds and no model remaining active. Very odd. I can stand up there with you as you ask the Gods to listen. -Jon
Thanks for raising. What Hi-Fi is reporting that this launch has only been confirmed for the US market and the rest of the world is still waiting. -Jon
If anyone is struggling to get HDMI signal out to their 4K tv. Try plugging in a regular computer monitor. That's what worked for me. Also enable picture by picture for some Sony 4K TVs.
I for one would like to know how Sony is outputting 13x150W with 540W of input. Of course if you ask them, they'll just say that that's not how they calculate the output and to be fair I don't think the competitors are much more honest but this is getting kinda out of hand. It's now anyone's guess as to how various AVRs actually compare to each other when it comes to power output.
Well, they are only specifying 2x150W, 8 Ohm, 0.9%THD. They do not give an all channels driven output. They could have nanny logic to shut down channels if driven too hard.
I have been waiting for Sony to step up there game especially with there ES lineup. I have had Sony gear in the past and my main display in my home theater is a Sony OLED and I am very happy with that tv. When I was in the market for a surround sound receiver the Sony's where cut from my list early as they just didn't have what I was looking for and I went with the Marantz SR-8012 instead which is built like a tank! I do not see any real improvements in the new Sony's and see no reason to spend money on one of there new offerings. A few more channels with small power supplies and anemic heat sinks with bear minimum inputs and outputs. I like the looks of the receivers but it looking nice in the rack is not enough given there are better options out there. The only way one of these receivers become a power house is if you go preouts to an amp like an Emotiva or Anthem or any solid performing power amp. If all you need is HDMI and not doing anything beyond home theater type application then a power amp might be what this receiver needs power wise to elevate your experience. But again I say there are better options for a home theater receiver from what I am seeing out of Sony. With the size of the power supplies and the horrible heat sinks I would say pure class D all the way. There is no way IMHO they are using class a/b with the limitations the power supplies would create. You may end up finding many of these going into small systems and people buying it for the Sony name. So once again more vanilla product from Sony in the home theater receiver space.
I enjoy the immersive experience. I also realize that some are content with 2-channels. I was content with a 5.1 system for 20 years. Now that I have a 7.2.4 system, I hope I can maintain at least this number of speakers. If I was told I needed to eliminate 2 channels, I would remove my rear surround channels. -Jon
Sadly 8K is just for marketing. 8 is double 4 so it must be twice as good...RIGHT??? Get 4K done properly with gaming essentials first! Wish my TV provider had 4K everything let alone 8k.
I am more focused on HDMI 2.1 support. The feature set in HDMI 2.1 is beyond 8K resolution. Ultimately I want to be able to switch inputs quickly. Today switching speeds are painful. I am hoping that Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Quick Media Switching (QMS) and Quick Frame Transport (QFT) will address latency issue with switching ports or source material within the same source. -Jon
directv has plenty of 4k, movies and sports, fun shows - been that way for like 3 years or so. Most all my pc games can do 8k so I'm interested, not marketing for me.
Sony needs to redesign the outside appearance. Visually they all look bland, cheap, and dated. Note: Sony makes excellent cameras, ...both in performance and looks. Perhaps get the camera designer to work on the av receivers
With the 7 years they had between new releases, one would think so. I suspect that they had their ES Receiver range shutdown in 2020 so all work could have stopped. I bet they realized their error and with the HDMI 2.1 issues with chip suppliers sorted out, they decided to re-start the program. With limited time and perhaps not a lot of funding as this is not a game console, TV or lifestyle product, they couldn't address the industrial design. - Jon
I am more focused on HDMI 2.1 support. The feature set in HDMI 2.1 is beyond 8K resolution. Ultimately I want to be able to switch inputs quickly. Today switching speeds are painful. I am hoping that Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Quick Media Switching (QMS) and Quick Frame Transport (QFT) will address latency issue with switching ports or source material within the same source. -Jon
Just like Atmos...I was tgricked into thinking it's the next "great thing"...bought Andrew Jones Atmos speakers and Pioneer Elite 9.2 AVR...just to be underwhelmed for overpriced gimmicks! I 've since sold the Atmos speakers and AVR and now using 5.1 speaker setup...and honestly, did not miss the Atmos setup! When watching movies, Atmos doesn't impact the sound at all as long as you has Dolby surround withj a pair of gud surround speakers and a beefy sub! The sub is wut make the MOST impact and I has a 12" 300W/500W JBL sub paid only $150. I rather has 2 subs than tiny overpriced Atmos speakers? So SAVE YOUR MONEY! Atmos is BULLSHIT!
Thanks for sharing that perspective. My take is that with a $1000-$3000 total budget it can be far better to go with a higher quality 5.1 system then a low-cost Atmos setup. -Jon
Sony AV Receiver doesn't do Gapless Music playback so if you like albums like Pink Floyd Dark Side of the Moon, you will get annoying gaps between tracks, instead of continuous playback without gaps
Isn't that a streaming feature??? I never heard of an AVR having anything like that as an internal feature? What AVR has that in their spec descriptions?
I agree. Other than the PS5 Media Remote, Sony shares their basic remote design across many products regardless of the cost of the component they ship with. They same to get smaller and lighter all the time. Just checking the box - remote included. -Jon
I think the new line is terrific! Not perfect, of course, but all-around excellent products. I'm sure they are going to sell a TON of them. No question about it. Can't wait to buy one myself.
Given the amount of views on this channel others regarding the news of these new models, I believe they will be popular. -Jon
Here i am, still sticking with my TA-VA777ES. What a machine. It doesn't pack all the new technologies, but it's the sound that matters.
I believe your TA-VA777ES was the model Sony introduced as they were phasing out the TA-E9000ES which I used up through last Fall.
Yes those generations of Sony receivers and processors were built very well. They seem to step back from trying to lead the market after those. Like you, I didn’t want to sacrifice sound quality for the latest feature set. -Jon
Just saw your review. Thanks.
I currently use a Yamaha RX-A2A. Today I ordered a 5000ES after receiving email from Crutchfield saying they were in stock. It arrives Saturday so looking forward to listening to the new 360 Spatial Sound technology.
Nice! Let me know how it goes. Both Sony and Yamaha are on my review roadmap. -Jon
@@ripewave The RX-A2A is a very nice receiver and was a good match to my Klipsch RP-8000F. Now here comes the Sony STR-AZ5000ES with 360 SSM and I’m speechless. WOW.
The Klipsch now sound more detailed, more defined, the lows are solid. Music takes a new meaning. Movies sound better than our Dallas/Ft Worth theaters!
Last night we saw the first episode of The Last of Us and when the plane crashed, we swear it hit our roof! Goodness Gracious, the 5000ES is one impressive receiver. I’m keeping it. Street explosions felt like we were there.
Thanks for that detailed account. Glad it is working out for you - Jon
Excellent presentation - thank you.
Fantastic video. Way to go!!! 😃✌
Carlos - glad you enjoyed the content. -Jon
Il pick up the 5000 to try the 360 sound mapping and their room correction, tv center channel and compare to my rz50 and dirac. Best buy has a huge return window period, so I'll probably test this thing out
That is great! Andrew Robinson just gave a glowing review of their 360 technology - saying that the positioning of objects is better than anything else he as heard. (Hopefully I have represented his assessment correctly - I was listening to his as my video was exporting form Premiere Pro.) His production work is first class, but we sometimes arrive at different conclusions. Therefore, I would really appreciate your opinion of their technology. -Jon
sammy10001
Whats the Onkyo RZ50 sound quality like and is it better after doing Dirac
Not sure - that is something I will need to experience in-house. -Jon
I was just thinking if I wanted to try that as well. Please do that and let us know. I wonder if I could combine with my avr and get the second height and a bunch of 360 surround speakers.
Sure thing. I will certainly share what I am able to test.-Jon
I think the speaker mapping technology to be the next big advancement for immersive audio. If it works (like it does with the trinnov) both rendering audio objects and upmixing to immersive setups could be rendered a lot more accurately accounting for the gaps in your system.
So far we have Trinnov, Yamaha and now Sony doing speaker mapping. Hopefully Dirac and ARC jump in on this and add this capability to their room EQ. Audyssey as well.
I am very intrigued by the Sony technology. May have to hear for myself.-Jon
Yamaha is doing it? Really? I own Denon 3700h for couple of years now, last month I bought Yamaha A6A Aventage receiver hoping for an improvement in audio...my god, calibration did not work at all, it did nothing to improve the sound, bass was lacking, it had no punch and was just weak - switcing to pure direct actually had little difference. Denon Audyssey on the other hand works miracles compared to Yamaha, without audyssey the sound does not have power, authority and again bass is lacking big time when I switch Audyssey on bass is controlled tight, and not OTT, Im not a bass heavy uuser, I just like it being tight and punchy. Yamaha let me down and I returned the receiver next day.
@@sneikiusas Yamaha claims they are doing it. Anyone's guess how good it actually is.
Its the models that use the Cinema DSP.
@@FURognar well its shit then :D
Dirac ART is forthcoming and I would be it will be a paid upgrade for AVR's that support Dirac live. This new Dirac enhancement will be huge and on par if not better than Sony I think.
Hi John, I think the STR-AN1000 is the successor to the STR-DN1080 instead of the STR-ZA1100ES. Nevertheless, great overview of Sony's new AV receiver line-up. Cheers, Tako
Thanks - I didn't feel the STR-AN1000 and the STR-ZA1100ES were the right match. You may have the right one with the STR-DN1080. -Jon
@@ripewave Sorry Jon, in my comment I misspelled your name. Keep up the good work!
THANKS! Appreciate your Excellent intro to the NEW Sony AVRs....I am interested, in spite of the fact that I just bought a new Denon AVR to go with new Sony Bravia 77A80J, which has a COOL
feature that will really improve/enliven Center Sound, you have to use an added Soundbar then you connect S OUT Line fm SBar to S IN on the 80J, then the SBar and TV's Screen Speakers all play at same time......I LOVE the Audio from the Screen actuators, but I wanted to turn off/remove my present C.Speaker [in5.1.2 setup] but just found out you can't do that presently - I'd have to not use my avr for 5.1.2 Audio.....BUT these new Sony ES AVR's would allow me to KEEP my present setup + use the GREAT Sound that emanates from the TV's Screen too. I would LOVE that.....but my present Center Speaker is mounted rt above the screen [angled down] but probably won't matter enough to bother me - the other great thing about the Sony TV's in screen speakers - extra special for me, being a Senior I don't hear certain sounds like I used to - they make Voices ALOT more understandable for ME! I now know the solution, i need to buy either one of the lower priced models, and then sell my Denon S760H. For me needs to you think the AN Model would suffice? TKS
thank you =)
your detailed overview with every aspect helped me alot.
I cant decide between Marantz Cinema 50 vs Sonys STR-AZ5000ES.
My endgoal would be a 7.1.4 System. Do you have a personal recommendation ?
The WAF is way higher in the Marantz in Silver it looks very nice compared to the standard Sony black block look from 1900 :D
So i would need to tuck away the Sony ^^.
Both with deliver 7.1.4 of processing. The STR-AZ5000ES is going to power all 11 channels internally while the Cinema only provides 9 channels of amplification, so you will be 2 channels short until you can acquire an external 2-channel amps. So if you want an all-in-one box - the Marantz isn't going to get you to 7.1.4.
You should list out your other criteria - decoding modes, input types, streaming support etc. Marantz is a far more comprehensive AVR with just about every standard feature included - AM/FM tuner, phono input, streaming, web and mobile apps. If the internal DACs, D.C.A.C IX calibration, 360 sound modes and overall sound quality that Sony offers is really good (don't know), they could tip the scale towards Sony despite some loses elsewhere. Otherwise Marantz is a safe bet.
Jon
I think the STR-AZ5000ES is a really compelling product at that price, it's only competitor is the Emotive MR1, and that AVR only has HDMI 2.0, and the horrible EMO - Q room correction. The Sony has the very well reviewed 360 Spatial Sound Mapping from the HT-A9 and the Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX. I really want to get one of these, and i've never felt that way about a Sony AVR before.
Thanks for sharing that perspective. EMO-Q doesn't rate high in comparisons. Albeit, not much talk about DCAC until this week. I am hearing that it does well with positioning the immersive content in the 3D space. I think a few more similarly priced model exists from Marantz, Onkyo and others. I guess it depends on your criteria. -Jon
@@ripewave Andrew Robinson and Shane Lee had glowing reviews about the room correction, especially their 3D sound mapping technology, nothing else has that.
I will listen to Shane again. He is usually fair in his assessments. -Jon
Those reviews intrigued me to order a new ES5000 to replace my current Arcam 850. Hope it does!
2000 $ range for 11-channel amp receiver is a sweet spot for most mainstream people who have invested in speakers and look alternative to soundbar. Sony ES5000 is a contender to beat. I'm waiting for the Onkyo RZ70 to come out and compete with Sony in an 11-channel receiver competition.
Yes - where is the Onkyo RZ70? It has been over a year since the others launched.
Jon
Got the STR-AN1000 coming today, will replace my other Sony STR-DH520.
Just got my AZ5000es ill set it up this Tuesday, let see if theres significant sounds vs my Sony 3100es.
I'm thinking about getting the AZ1000ES, but am wondering if I can use my old 5 disc CD player with it?
I also plan on using it for watching movies via bluray player or streaming via chromecast and listening to music via spotify.
Sure you can. Whether you connect via analog RCA, digital COAX or Optical, it should work. Those connections are all available on the Sony AZ1000ES -Jon
Sure you can. Whether you connect via analog RCA, digital COAX or Optical, it should work. Those connections are all available on the Sony AZ1000ES -Jon
That expression at the start of the video, lol, tells me Sony has something interesting here. I bet a lot of people are in my same shoes: not enough money for separates, yet love our current receiver - but need HDMI 2.1 for gaming, IMAX Enhanced, and any upgrade with sound immersion. The reason I was interested in Dirac Live is ultimately for a better 3d sound immersion in home theater and better sound quality in 2 channel. It seems Sony may be doing a better job of the former and to be seen how it really does with 2 channel; impressions on other channels have been positive. No phono input, no disable of amp stage (maybe?), no independent subs - but still has those interesting Sony features and quirks giving an overall personality. Jon is right, a head to head against Arcam & Denon/Marantz would be interesting. The 500ES looks like it will be taking my money this year, the price point and feature set is just too sweet.
Dale - If their approach to 3D / 360 sound calibration and playback is as good as some are saying, it will be a big win for them. However, they need to amp up the marketing and education on their technologies. The Sony website presents them with only basic details and it all starts to blend into the background. Since their highlights are proprietary Sony technology, they don't have the benefit of marketing from others - they need to drive strongly or get passed over. They need to point out how they are different and better - what does D.C.A.C IX do more then Audyssey, Dirac and others? -Jon
If a pick up AV receivers,,, what about speakers????. Am i to spend additional...???
True - you need to determine your path to evolve your system. If you buy into an ecosystem - like the Sony wireless speakers, you lock yourself into Sony. Some focus on speakers and amps first as those have long lifespans while others start with receivers and basic speakers.-Jon
You know I am pretty excited to see Sony get back into the ES line although I am not sure this is really top end ES product. I am still using an Older Onkyo TX-NR5008 and I am wondering if the 5000 or 7000 would be a good replacement for that unit. I really just wanted a modern processor and just continue to use my NR5008 but that really doesn’t seem like the best solution. Love your channel.
Brian - Thanks for your encouragement. I enjoy sharing these details. The new Sony models will introduce immersive Atmos / dts:x to your system (provided you add some speakers). You have Front-Wide capability with the TX-NR5008 - are you using those channels? If so, that will push you to the 7000. Lots of options for you beyond Sony so it will come down to your full criteria. -Jon
@@ripewave Hey Jon it is an old school setup in our family room from 2010. We have Monitor Audio Silver S10 towers plus the monitor audio Silver center. The sub is an old Bob Carver Sunfire True Subwoofer Signature 10. Finally the rear surrounds are actually old B&W in walls that are located in our ceiling as it is an open family room with no back wall. So as you can see I am definitely not using all the channels. I would like to do some upgrades and get some better sound as far as more speakers or maybe dipole or bipole. I want the sound to be more encompassing and all around. I feel like it would be nice to have all the modern sound processing and it would be nice to have the eArc for my modern 75 inch micro led tv I have on the wall. The one thing is it seems like they don’t build them like they used to. The old NR5008 is built like a tank and has a huge toroidal main audio transformer and weighs over 55lbs.
I really like how you managed to keep your vintage gear as active parts of your system. Always wanted to try the Carver amplifiers. Keep it up.-Jon
Main questions in my mind right now:
1) Sony 360° Space RC versus Dirac Live RC, and 2) 11-channels on board amplification receivers in the same price performance competition segment, Sony vs Onkyo vs Denon.
Justin - well articulated. That would be a great comparison-Jon
Can I use 4ohm speakers on the AN1000/es1000?
Thank you. I am not sure if you have listen to the new Sony ES models mainly the 7000 series. If so do you have a comparison sheet for this like you have for some of the other AVR's you have done prior.
I had planned to get one in at the end of August, by that model was removed from Amazon since I last looked. I then turned focused to the HTP-1 from Monoprice as it had been unavailable for so long. Then I got the Arcam AV41 (next on deck) due to its similarities to the HTP-1 for head to head comparison. Hopefully, I can manage Sony next. -Jon
That would be great John. I enjoy you channel on how you evaluate features of each device. I am leaning toward the Arcam AVR31 as my next new AVR. I am selling a AVR850 and have always loved the sound of Arcam. I hear great things about the new Sony ES series and of course anthem as well.
I just ordered a new Sony ES5000 AVR. I hope it will be all it appears to be via other reviewers. The Arcam AVR 850 is still in the house and the Sony will have to outperform the AVR850 on many levels but sound is always paramount for me per purchase decisions. I will come back to this video and post my findings after a good few days of demo.
Keep me posted. I would really like to know what you discover. -Jon
Hi John, I got the new ES5000 yesterday and now have it up and running I finished the room correction and did have to reach out to Sony for a few questions. So far so good, no noise at all. I love the spatial immersion far more impressive than the Arcam with Dirac. Being I do not have a HT room this is a great fit for me providing a great movie/TV experience. I love losing the external amplifier that I had with the Arcam. The back layout I really like over the Arcam and the connectivity seems high quality. The front panel is very well laid out and is nice you can do all your configuration either via your TV or the unit front panel. Build quality is outstanding. A few enhancements would be a bit more base management being they only provide 1 sub out so if you have multiple subs they all will be treated as a singular bass system. However as the rep from Sony indicated on Audioholics live stream most new higher end subs have DSP built in so one can tune your subs via your subs and not worry about that feature not being in the AVR. This probably made the software cost being a bit less as well. For my room multiple sub control isn't a big deal. I use two SVS PB4000's with come with a great App and DSP included.
Some improvements I would like to see are the following. I wish the remote was a bit more robust per navigation and backlit. But once you learn it is fine. The front panel is very dim as well even set to bright. One is better utilizing the TV screen if viewing from a distance. But if you are using the front panel visibility is fine from a close proximity. The onscreen UI is very well laid out similar to Audyssey. I have to tweak the analog EQ a bit for music digital streaming and playing vinyl. I use Sony wireless noise canceling headphones so not concerned with a wired headphone jack. But I did contact Sony support and they answered the phone quickly with a human being online! They pointed out a few setting I need to be change to get a better setup for my system. The Arcam AVR850 is now for sale.
Another great comprehensive breakdown mate. This could have been a great receiver but I feel Sony missed the mark on this one. The design has not changed, 1 sub pre out is ridiculous and the proprietary technology keeps you tethered to Sony.
I feel the industrial design isn't bad, but still find the lack of update will hurt them. Sony doesn't change styles that often - so not a huge surprise. What is the big surprise is the lack of independent subwoofer outputs. That will certainly hurt them with many multi-sub enthusiasts. -Jon
@@ripewave yep, that's me thought exactly. Wanting ppl that are into separates to buy into their wireless sub is not gonna work. We in the separates world love bid subs and those Sony ones are not that good.
@@ripewave Just curious here, why does independent sub outs matter? Is that so you can have independent volume control between your two subs? Not sure why that would even matter? Can't imagine a scenario where you would want to have one sub at a different volume level than the other in a two-sub setup. Why would someone want to do that other than to just be able to simply say that they can?
@@wezzman1 those wireless subs actually hold a great deal of appeal. You'd be amazed at how many people don't want to put their sub up front with their equipment and want or need to locate it somewhere in the back of the room instead. Having the ability to easily do that with the new Sony wireless subs is an absolute godsend for many people that don't want to have to run a wire over to a sub - and especially not to two of them. Having the flexibility to put one or two auto-pairing wireless subs anywhere in a room just by giving them access to AC power is a huge selling point for Sony (along with now being able to do that with the wireless rears as well, even 100% wirelessly if you opt for the bigger, battery or AC powered and Atmos-enabled SA-RS5's). Customers are already heading out to stores to buy these new Sony receivers now for exactly that reason - something none of their competitors can offer yet. This is a new trend that is ramping up in the marketplace now and Sony is certainly out front in the lead on it. Expect to see far more in the way of wireless speaker options for surround sound setups going forward here for upcoming generations or receivers from just about all manufacturers that will soon be looking to match or even try and exceed what Sony has done with their 2023 lineup. Now, that may not hold the same appeal with the hard-core, died-in-the-wool audiophiles out there of course, but absolutley everyone ELSE loves that concept - and already wants to see more iterations of it going forward. Rest assured that three to five years out from now, you'll be seeing a LOT more in the way of wireless speaker options for home theater receivers - from everyone.
Do you think sony will release a processor??? I have a Marantz av7706 processor but would be highly interested in a processor from Sony.
It has been long time since Sony made a processor. Possible that my Sony TA-E9000ES released in 1998 was the last one. A good number of brands have stopped making those. I wish that trend would reverse.-Jon
Question - lots of interest in the new Sony models despite only having a parallel subwoofer output (not independently controllable). Could it be that many don’t run multi-sub or care about running to that level? -Jon
I might pick up one of the cheap ones to do try something I heard of called scatmos where you add a second receiver to give more channels. I wish you would do a video on that I can’t find any yt vids on it, and the forums are so long and contradictory.
You have my attention. Is scatmos different from using a 2nd AVR to provide amps? see video from last month: ua-cam.com/video/Gt2biLXfN-8/v-deo.html
how good is the av3000es, av5000es against an rz50
I plan to review in October. I will discover how good then. -Jon
I'm concerned that they don't appear to support QMS or QFT. That is an HDMI 2.1a feature. Are these not HDMI 2.1a?
The HDMI org permits devices to claim support for HDMI 2.1 without supporting all the optional features - like QMS, QFT. -Jon
@@ripewave I understand but I want those features. If the receiver doesn't have it, it could be a deal breaker. Even the least expensive Denon 2.1 receivers have it.
@@dlbsyst I found the omission odd. Let’s hope it was a marketing error only and not something they skipped altogether
@@ripewave I just got in the STR-AN1000 receiver today.🙂 Do you know an easy way I can test for those features?
Hi
I sawed New Apple Tv 4k2022 - Top Hit!
Video. How to play Amazon music on Heos account. Please reply
Thanks for watching. To access Amazon music on a HEOS account, you will first need an AV Receiver or Processor that supports HEOS - so one from Marantz or Denon. Then it is as simple as downloading the HEOS app to your mobile device, selecting the "music" service with the (Amazon smile logo) and configuring your logon information for Amazon and it should play.
If you have one of the new Sony AV Receivers, you will not run through HEOS at all. Instead, you will use the native Amazon Music app on your mobile device and connect via Airplay (for iOS devices) or Chromecast to connect to the Sony AVR.
Jon
@@ripewave thank you ♥️
After doing everything my TV is showing signal AAC 256Kbps its means? I have the denon x1400h. I have an Amazon subscription.
AN1000 FM reception is terrible, the single wire antenna does not get the job done
Is there a FM antenna available that has that has that miniature 2 wire plastic plug in connector that gets good reception
That is disappointing. Sony should be able to deliver a quality FM tuner even on their entry level models. -Jon
I have the za5000es.
Some one here compared face to face this avrs in stereo? I want know
That would be valuable. -Jon
I'd stay away from this crap. Cheap plastic design, useless room correction solution, when 360 mapping is activated, you get a loud hiss from most speakers. I'll take Denon X4800H over the STR-AZ7000ES any time.
I am reviewing the Sony in-house now. I was hearing noises when no source was playing and thought someone turned the heat on for the first time this season as it sounded like water and air bubbles. I latter found if I disconnect the Sony output, the noise disappeared. I will continue to investigate but I am concerned. I am not getting any noise when 360 mapping is enabled and music /movie is playing. - Jon
Always drooled over Sony ES products back in the day. Owned a couple of their ES carousel players and enjoyed them with no reliability issues. FF to 2023 and I’m disappointed a top of the line Sony ES level product has parallel wired subwoofer outputs. Cheap remote. No Auro 3D is a show stopper too. Interesting about dual center channel outputs in the highest level.. never seen that before. Not sure it’s even needed. Wireless speakers may be the future but as an an audio enthusiast who enjoys hi resolution audio, I’m not sure the technology is quite there yet with these Sonys. Obviously I’m not the niche market for Sony. I’ll pass on recommending this product unless it’s someone who meets the criteria you mentioned. Thanks for your review Jon. Keep ‘em’ coming’ my friend.
I don't think this one is for you - and it is not just the lack of Auro3D support. You live in the "premium" home cinema / enthusiast category. Wireless is convenient, but compression and induced latency will keep the wired approach sounding better until wireless differences are undetectable by our ears. Seems like a long ways off - but will improve over time. Albeit, good enough for many.
Their center channel strategies may see a broader audience. Moving from TVs to projectors is a big jump, so this aims to improve the audio when a standard TV is used. How well does it work? Does it create other problems? The meshing with Bravia speakers seems like the least attractive (sonically) option - two centers (1 above, 1 below) seems like the best option. Seems so simple - wonder why others don't offer that solution.
Jon
@@ripewave I don't think I would take issue with this product, Jon, if it were not for the fact that it is the famed ES "Elevated Series" from Sony with a reputation that only those who lived during the "glory years" of audio would know about. The build standard and options shown in your vid are not living up to those Japan era pieces. Basically, in my book, it's an ESINO--ES in Name Only. ;-)
@@jb.2986 they diluted the brand. So if Sony decides to produce a real ES product what do they call it?
I just learned that the ES series that was introduced in 1965 originally was linked to the entire line of Sony Hi-Fi products as “Extremely High Standard”
Always heard “Elevated Standard”
May need to bring back the “R” series from the late 80s or “Series 1” from the late 90s.
@@ripewave ahhh, not elevated series, but Extremely High Standard. I stand corrected. Thanks Jon. Although that makes my point even more poignant.
I just learn myself - I am stand corrected too. And yes - your point is so valid. If you didn't live through the glory years, you don't have that reference and associated disappointment. -Jon
I wonder why only the AZ1000 and AN1000 have a headphone output? That seems strange.
Very strange - not all of us have adopted Bluetooth headphones. -Jon
@@ripewave Isn't that the truth. I hate audio through Bluetooth. It's lossy. I bought an external DAC for headphones. It sounds amazing to my Sennheiser HD-599 🎧
I am with you - I find Bluetooth hard to manage as well as a sonically disappointing. I see you are doing it right with your setup. -Jon
@@ripewave Thanks.🙂
I own the 2100 es bought it in 2021
Hopefully, it is serving you well. -Jon
Brian, I live in a mixed environment as most of my family is Japanese, and I am the American laying down the dollars for a new receiver. Oddly at this time in Japan Sony is unaware of these new releases. My family situation is complex with both JP & USA. The receiver should unite both worlds from one company it should be Sony.
The AN1000 actuall replaces the very popular DN1080 model
Thank you!
Now that Sony is back, can we get back to basics already?
By basic do you mean things like sound quality? -Jon
Jon just noticed you got the price wrong on the STR-AZ5000ES, its $2,099 not $2,299
Nuts - I wish I had an assistant. I kept checking the slides over and over and still missed that one. Thanks for letting me know. At least it wasn't wildly off. -Jon
@@ripewave better to make the price higher than it is than lower. like I said I think the AZ5000ES is a steal at $2,099 the Denon AVR - x6700h was $2,499 when it came out then was raised to $3000 then $3099
Yes - lots of profit taking if you ask me. They hide it as "necessary" due to inflation and supply issue. But they are taking more. -Jon
Ok so anyone know which receiver to use with nuance 20 plus year old speakers that still work perfectly
I don't know the impedance of your Nuance speakers, but I did find that the Sony STR-AZ7000ES will support the use of speakers with a 4- to 16-ohm impedance. Hopefully, someone can weight in that does...
The older za 5000 was class a/b amp
Thanks - that feedback helps. It is likely that hasn't changed then. I will still aim to confirm. -Jon
Think Sony should of done HDR10+ for these new AV Receivers.
Sony STR-AZ3000ES AV Receiver would of been alright for me but it has no Preouts, l like to add my Stereo Amp to Preouts of AV Receiver so l can use same front left & right speakers for separate music playback from Stereo Amp.
I would not need features like Wireless surround capabilities
Agreed it should have HDR10+. Wireless surround is nice if you want to add a few wireless speakers to your wired speakers in places you don't have wires.
@@estusflask982 Sony does not care for HDR+ on their televisions. They are aligned with Dolby Vision.
I was surprised by the no pre-out thing. A bit odd for the 3000 level. The wireless capability also forces you into the few available Sony options - convenient for some, restrictive for others. -Jon
So for the 5000es - my PC software doesn’t do dolby vision, my hdr10+ movies would resort to the lowest layer? Also would like to confirm if this is 7.2.4 capable.
It’s funny. I just bought the Onkyo 6100 and I replaced my 279 dollar Sony 5.2 receiver. I took the onkyo back. It wasn’t even close to having as well of a picture quality from my projector. Although the onkyo did have more to offer for the sound, I just couldn’t get over how washed out the onkyo was compared to the Sony.
Super feedback. Video quality is not an area I have jumped into. Nice to have you fill in that gap. -Jon
🙏🙏🙏👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Thanks for your support. -Jon
I just wish Sony had Auro3D.
Yet their flagship has support for DTS:x pro which is not common. Albeit no one is talking about DTS:x pro.-Jon
John I am hearing this machine has DSP performance comparable to a Trinnov [Yes everyone please laugh at me]/ Check out Andrew Robinson's latest video.
Andrew listened and could hear detail that is not there with the highest end Marantz, Onkyo, Pioneer, Yamaha etc similar priced.
I look to the Gods and ask them take the amp out of the 7000ES and provide a processor for the pro, industry and installer crowd with XLR(s).
Yes - Andrew gave a glowing review. Many brands have abandoned their AV Processor separate models. Nothing from Sony, Denon, Onkyo, Pioneer, Integra or Yamaha in their latest rounds and no model remaining active. Very odd. I can stand up there with you as you ask the Gods to listen. -Jon
Outside US?
Thanks for raising. What Hi-Fi is reporting that this launch has only been confirmed for the US market and the rest of the world is still waiting. -Jon
If anyone is struggling to get HDMI signal out to their 4K tv. Try plugging in a regular computer monitor. That's what worked for me. Also enable picture by picture for some Sony 4K TVs.
Thanks for sharing that advice. I do not have experience with Sony TVs but your suggestion is sure to help this community.
I for one would like to know how Sony is outputting 13x150W with 540W of input. Of course if you ask them, they'll just say that that's not how they calculate the output and to be fair I don't think the competitors are much more honest but this is getting kinda out of hand. It's now anyone's guess as to how various AVRs actually compare to each other when it comes to power output.
Well, they are only specifying 2x150W, 8 Ohm, 0.9%THD. They do not give an all channels driven output. They could have nanny logic to shut down channels if driven too hard.
@@ripewave never heard the term nanny logic. 🤔
I guess "protection circuit " is the more universal term. Protects against overloads and thermal issues.
@@ripewave ..now that term I've heard!
I think Gene @ Audioholics uses the term "nanny"
I have been waiting for Sony to step up there game especially with there ES lineup. I have had Sony gear in the past and my main display in my home theater is a Sony OLED and I am very happy with that tv. When I was in the market for a surround sound receiver the Sony's where cut from my list early as they just didn't have what I was looking for and I went with the Marantz SR-8012 instead which is built like a tank! I do not see any real improvements in the new Sony's and see no reason to spend money on one of there new offerings. A few more channels with small power supplies and anemic heat sinks with bear minimum inputs and outputs. I like the looks of the receivers but it looking nice in the rack is not enough given there are better options out there. The only way one of these receivers become a power house is if you go preouts to an amp like an Emotiva or Anthem or any solid performing power amp. If all you need is HDMI and not doing anything beyond home theater type application then a power amp might be what this receiver needs power wise to elevate your experience. But again I say there are better options for a home theater receiver from what I am seeing out of Sony. With the size of the power supplies and the horrible heat sinks I would say pure class D all the way. There is no way IMHO they are using class a/b with the limitations the power supplies would create. You may end up finding many of these going into small systems and people buying it for the Sony name. So once again more vanilla product from Sony in the home theater receiver space.
I plan on bringing in a new Sony for review next month (October) to see for myself and report out through this channel. Should be interesting. -Jon
are 13 channels needed ? really have an advance ?
I enjoy the immersive experience. I also realize that some are content with 2-channels. I was content with a 5.1 system for 20 years. Now that I have a 7.2.4 system, I hope I can maintain at least this number of speakers. If I was told I needed to eliminate 2 channels, I would remove my rear surround channels. -Jon
Onkyo is tough to beat at the moment.
Especially for the price. -Jon
Sadly 8K is just for marketing. 8 is double 4 so it must be twice as good...RIGHT??? Get 4K done properly with gaming essentials first! Wish my TV provider had 4K everything let alone 8k.
I am more focused on HDMI 2.1 support. The feature set in HDMI 2.1 is beyond 8K resolution. Ultimately I want to be able to switch inputs quickly. Today switching speeds are painful. I am hoping that Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Quick Media Switching (QMS) and Quick Frame Transport (QFT) will address latency issue with switching ports or source material within the same source. -Jon
@@ripewave I wish HDMI 2.1 meant the same thing to all manufacturers . Industry has to create enforceable standards.
I completely agree. Very confusing and inconsistent. -Jon
directv has plenty of 4k, movies and sports, fun shows - been that way for like 3 years or so. Most all my pc games can do 8k so I'm interested, not marketing for me.
Sony needs to redesign the outside appearance. Visually they all look bland, cheap, and dated.
Note: Sony makes excellent cameras, ...both in performance and looks. Perhaps get the camera designer to work on the av receivers
With the 7 years they had between new releases, one would think so. I suspect that they had their ES Receiver range shutdown in 2020 so all work could have stopped. I bet they realized their error and with the HDMI 2.1 issues with chip suppliers sorted out, they decided to re-start the program. With limited time and perhaps not a lot of funding as this is not a game console, TV or lifestyle product, they couldn't address the industrial design. - Jon
8K? No AK content why do we need a 8K receiver
I am more focused on HDMI 2.1 support. The feature set in HDMI 2.1 is beyond 8K resolution. Ultimately I want to be able to switch inputs quickly. Today switching speeds are painful. I am hoping that Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Quick Media Switching (QMS) and Quick Frame Transport (QFT) will address latency issue with switching ports or source material within the same source. -Jon
pc video games mon
Just like Atmos...I was tgricked into thinking it's the next "great thing"...bought Andrew Jones Atmos speakers and Pioneer Elite 9.2 AVR...just to be underwhelmed for overpriced gimmicks! I 've since sold the Atmos speakers and AVR and now using 5.1 speaker setup...and honestly, did not miss the Atmos setup! When watching movies, Atmos doesn't impact the sound at all as long as you has Dolby surround withj a pair of gud surround speakers and a beefy sub! The sub is wut make the MOST impact and I has a 12" 300W/500W JBL sub paid only $150. I rather has 2 subs than tiny overpriced Atmos speakers? So SAVE YOUR MONEY! Atmos is BULLSHIT!
Thanks for sharing that perspective. My take is that with a $1000-$3000 total budget it can be far better to go with a higher quality 5.1 system then a low-cost Atmos setup. -Jon
Sony after sales has been awful. After 30 years…my new brand is /will be Marantz. Enough of unfulfilled promises for me.
Support is important
Sony AV Receiver doesn't do Gapless Music playback so if you like albums like Pink Floyd Dark Side of the Moon, you will get annoying gaps between tracks, instead of continuous playback without gaps
Isn't that a streaming feature??? I never heard of an AVR having anything like that as an internal feature? What AVR has that in their spec descriptions?
Holy moly man, pick up the pace.
Ya got 15 minutes of actual data
in a 45 minute segment. You're not that interesting.
Remote is trash.
I agree. Other than the PS5 Media Remote, Sony shares their basic remote design across many products regardless of the cost of the component they ship with. They same to get smaller and lighter all the time. Just checking the box - remote included. -Jon
I find it strange that the new receivers have radios that are FM only. for people like myself that mainly listen to talk radio, that's usually on AM.
It is strange - how much cost saving did that removal really get them? -Jon