Tag Archives: A/V RECEIVER

DENON AVR-E300 HT RECEIVER WITH APPLE AIRPLAY

FEATURES
• 175 watts per channel maximum power
• Networking with AirPlay, Pandora and Spotify
• Audyssey MultiEQ, dynamic volume and dynamic EQ
• Front panel USB input with iPod digital direct
• Four rear panel HDMI inputs
• New setup assistant with enhanced GUI

REMOTE: RC-1181

RATING: 3.7/5

Welcome to a review of the DENON AVR-E300 HT RECIEVER with Apple AirPlay. The video and sound quality is pretty solid overall. It has been stated that this is a good entry-level networking receiver and this device is easy to setup. The easy speaker connections allow you to insert wires quickly and easily. Menu navigation is quick and easy with the remote control that comes with the AVR-E300, part number RC-1181.

One of the best features of the receiver is the built-in 9 Band Manual Equalizer. While the preset sound settings do a good job refining the sound, it is nice to tailor the sound exactly to how you like it. One major disappointment is when headphones are connected, the manual equalizer is automatically disabled. It is nice that the receiver automatically recognizes the headphones and shuts off the external speakers, but not sure why it disables the equalizer, which is an issue for some. Using Pandora, Internet Radio and Airplay work well streaming music from something such as an iPod Touch.

Overall this model is fairly solid with a few setbacks, but for anyone looking for an entry level device, the AVR-E300 might be worth checking out.

PROS:
• Sound quality
• Video quality

CONS:
• Wireless connection using Wi-Fi
• Multi-zone capabilities
• 4k pass-through for future compatibility
• Bluetooth so you can stream music from your devices

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Denon AVR-E400 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver with Apple AirPlay

FEATURES:
• 7.1 channel; 185 watts per channel maximum power; analog to HDMI video conversion
• New setup assistant with enhanced GUI
• Amplified multi-zone/multi-source in lieu of surround back
• Networking with AirPlay, Pandora & Spotify
• Five rear panel HDMI inputs

REMOTE: RC-1183

RATING: 4.0/5

Welcome to a review of the Denon AVR-E400 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver. It has been stated that compared to other receivers in this price range, the Denon AVR-E400 has exceptional sound quality. Denon has long been known for its sound quality, and this model is no exception. The AVR-E400 has a full set of encoders, while other models in this price range, skip a few encoders. The Audyssey implementation has been mentioned as being outstanding. Another great feature of this model is how easy it is to control with the use of the remote control, part number RC-1183.

The other internet features are not the best out there, but because that’s not the primary purpose of an A/V receiver, it is not a big issue. The AVR-E400 has Apple AirPlay, but it is better to use a separate AppleTV box for AirPlay. The lack of WiFi can be an issue, but truthfully, it’s much better to have a separate WiFi adapter, which would make it easier to keep up with the latest wireless technology that changes every couple of years.

If it’s all about the sound quality, the AVR-E400 has that. This model lives up to the reputation of the brand and is an easy recommendation.

PROS:
• Sound quality
• Name brand
• Easy to control

CON:
• Internet features
• Lack of WiFi

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Denon AVR-X5200W 9.2 Network A/V Receiver with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and Dolby Atmos

FEATURES:
• 140W Per Channel at 8 Ohms
• Audyssey MultEQ XT32 + Pro
• 4K Ultra HD Upscaling and Pass-Through
• 9-Channel Discrete Amplifier Design
• 8 x HDMI-In / 3 x HDMI-Out
• Built-In Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and AirPlay
• ISFccc Video Calibration Controls
• Dolby Atmos Surround Decoding
• Smartphone and Tablet Control
• Multi-Room Listening

REMOTE: RC-1193

RATING: 4.5 out of 5

Welcome to a review of Denon’s AVR-X5200W, a 9.2 Channel Network A/V Receiver with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth and Dolby Atmos Surround Decoding. The Denon AVR-X5200W receiver delivers powerful multi-channel performance and video up-scaling. This A/V receiver houses a powerful discreet 9-channel amplifier that can deliver 140W per channel at 8 ohms.

Enjoy a stunning surround sound audio experience using the Dolby Atmos surround decoding that provides dramatic surround sound throughout the room, enhanced by overhead speakers that provide pinpoint sound imaging, just like you’d hear in a Dolby Atmos movie theater. Audyssey Platinum DSP technologies are built-in to help tailor the sound of the receiver and connected speakers to anyone’s specific listening environment

The AVR-X5200W features an advanced video section with 8 HDMI inputs including 1, conveniently located on the front panel and 3 HDMI outputs. It is equipped with 4K Ultra HD 60 Hz video pass-through and up-scaling. It is also compatible with Pure Color 4:4:4 color sub-sampling, another feature of the latest HDMI specification. The video section also features ISFccc advanced video calibration controls.

The AVR-X5200W comes with a Quick Setup guide, and has an intuitive on-screen Setup Assistant that will have your system fully configured with a minimum of fuss and bother. You can even control the setup via your PC’s web browser, or use our available iOS and Android Denon Remote apps with your favorite smart device or use the included remote control, Denon’s RC-1193, to aide you through the setup process smoothly.

There are many great features with this A/V receiver. The price point is pretty much in-line for all of these outstanding features. This model is making its way and consumers are enjoying the Denon AVR-X5200W.

PROS:
• Sound quality
• Many features
• Dolby Atmos
• Multi-room listening

CONS:
• Pricey
• Impedance selector switch issues

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Sony STR-DA2800ES 7.2-channel 4K A/V Receiver

FEATURES:

• 7.2-channel with 100 watts per channel
• Built-in WiFi
• Built-on Bluetooth
• 4K resolution pass-through and upscaling
• 8 HDMI inputs plus 2 component inputs
• USB port on front panel
• Control4 home automation system controller

REMOTE: RM-AAU155

RATING: 4 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Sony STR-DA2800ES 7.2-channel 4K A/V Receiver. This A/V receiver is packed full of features, giving you endless options to optimize your entertainment needs. Setting up your new receiver couldn’t be easier, colorful diagrams and text descriptions will guide you through each step. Once the receiver is turned on, you are presented with an easy set-up system which will walk you through all the settings necessary, including speaker settings. This system has an intuitive on screen menu that allows you to manage and access your input devices effortlessly. The new menu on this receiver is very easy to navigate and switching between system settings, internet apps or changing inputs is a breeze. Being WiFi enabled lets you access the internet where you can stream movies, music, youtube videos and so much more. Once connected to the internet, the receiver has access to a vast array of web apps including streaming features like Netflix, Hulu and Vudu in addition to audio apps like Pandora and Slacker. The USB port located on the front panel also allows you to access your music via flash drive. If you own a smartphone, with this receiver, your phone can now become the remote control for your system when you install the appropriate app.

The remote control that accompanies this receiver is part# RM-AAU155. Some users have commented that this remote could be more effective if it were more able to control the devices that are added rather than just the receiver itself.

The sound quality that this receiver delivers is excellent. Crisp, clear detail and just the right amount of bass will more than fulfill your needs. Watching movies, sporting events and playing games will be a pleasure you’ll want to experience again and again. As with any other system, there are drawbacks which have been noted by users. One concern is that there is no volume indication projected on the TV screen which can be an annoyance for many. For those concerned with energy consumption users have noticed that the receiver leaves unused equipment turned on when you are done with an activity meaning unnecessary energy consumption. However, with all the extras this receiver delivers, together with the exceptional sound and picture quality, this is definitely an item to consider for your next shopping trip.

PROS:
• Crisp, powerful, sound quality
• Built-in Wifi for internet connection
• 4K resolution pass-through

CONS:
• Remote control could be more effective
• No volume indication on TV
• Energy consumption issues

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Onkyo TX-NR515 7.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver

FEATURES:

• 7.2 channel amplifier
• 80 watts per channel
• 8 in/1 out HDMI ports
• 4K upscaling
• USB port
• Wifi capability (with purchase of adapter)
• Audyssey Room Correction
• InstaPrevue technology

REMOTE: RC-834M

RATING: 4.2 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Onkyo TX-NR515 7.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver. The Onkyo TX-NR515 model is a low to mid-range receiver full of high end features. With 7 channels at 80 watts per channel, you will be pleasantly surprised with its powerful Dolby Pro Logic IIz expansion surround sound performance. 8 input and 1 output HDMI ports give you plenty of options for the connection of your equipment, including a blu-ray player, cable/satellite box, gaming console, TV, PC/Laptop and more. A current sought after feature is 4K upscaling. With its customers in mind, Onkyo has equipped the TX-NR515 with 4K upscaling so that when you purchase a 4K capable TV, you will be able to upscale your movies and videos to 4K resolution and enjoy your TV viewing as though you were in a theater. A USB port, located on the front panel, allows you to connect your iPhone/iPod, or flash drive to listen to your music which will be much more crisp and clear since the audio signal is transported in digital instead of analog form. The front panel HDMI port is designed for the connection of smartphones and other portable electronic devices using the new Mobil High Definition Link or MHL standard. This will allow you to display full high definition video and pictures with surround sound.

The part number for the remote control used for this receiver is RC-834M. One minor flaw with the remote control, as noted by customers, is the lack of back-lit buttons, making it very hard to use the remote at night.

Using the Audyssey 2EQ Full Calibration is easy and will have your speakers calibrated to give you optimal surround sound quality in minutes. Although this receiver does not come with built-in WiFi, you can purchase an adapter to make it WiFi capable, thereby allowing you to stream your favorite music. Onkyo receivers have access to the most online music services including Pandora, Spotify, Rhapsody, Slacker and many more. InstaPrevue provides video thumbnails of the available content on your devices connected via HDMI so that you no longer have to remember that your blu-ray player is connected to Port 1, or your gaming console to Port 2, for example, you will be able to see what is playing and make your choice with ease. For the price point of this receiver, the sound quality it delivers is exceptional, with clear, crisp, details and deep, rich bass and with all its other features, you can’t go wrong.

PROS:
• Moderately priced
• Powerful sound quality with clarity and depth
• 8 in/1 out HDMI ports
• Automatic Speaker Calibration

CONS:
• No printed owner’s manual
• Firmware update must be done prior to use

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DENON AVR-X2000 7.1 CHANNEL HOME THEATER RECEIVER WITH APPLE AIRPLAY

FEATURES:
• 7.1 channel, 95 watts, 7 channel power (8 ohms, 20Hz – 20 kHz, THD 0.08%
• 185 watts per channel maximum power (6 ohm, 1kHz, THD 10%, 1 channel driven)
• Networking with AirPlay, Pandora, & Spotify
• Dolby Pro Logic IIz, 4K Ultra HD scaling and pass through
• New setup assistant with enhanced GUI

Remote Control: RC-1183

Rating: 4.0/5.0

Welcome to a review of Denon’s AVR-X2000 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver. Designed to serve as the heart and brain of your connected home theater system, the AVR-X2000 In-Command 7.1 Network Home Theater Receiver features 7 discrete output stages with identical circuit topology, with each channel rated at 95 watts. This system will easily be able to drive today’s quality loudspeakers.

This receiver is equipped with advanced video circuitry capable of up scaling video signals to 4K Ultra HD. Video images at this resolution are dazzlingly vibrant and sharp. The easy-to-follow instructions via our on-screen setup assistant helps you to quickly and easily set up your system. In addition, you can assign 2 channels of the AVR-X2000’s 7-channel amplifier to provide power for speakers located in another room.

The remote control that comes with the AVR-X2000, is part number RC-1183. The RC-1183 will help in the easy setup process and all the menu options.

You shouldn’t be short of HDMI inputs. There are seven total, with one on the front of the receiver, and future-proofing is covered in the X2000’s 3D and 4K compatibility. With so many great features and great sound quality, the AVR-X2000 is worth checking out.

PROS:
• Great sound quality
• 7 HDMI ports
• 4K Ultra HD

CON:
• Networking could be improved

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Sony STR-DN840 7.2-channel 4K Wi-Fi Network A/V Receiver

FEATURES:

• 7.2 Channels, 150 watts per channel
• Built-in Wifi, bluetooth or airplay
• 6 HDMI inputs
• 4K pass-through
• Control receiver with Iphone or Android devices
• 3D pass-through
• Front USB input
• Sound Optimizer

REMOTE: RM-AAU170

RATING: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Sony 7.2 Channel 4K Wifi Network AV Receiver. Paired with a nice set of speakers, Sony’s 7.2 channel AV receiver delivers dazzling, powerful sound. The built-in Wifi, bluetooth and airplay make it easy for you to enjoy your music or media from almost all of your devices. The front USB input gives you another option to connect your music or videos while charging your device. This receiver boasts 6 HDMI inputs, allowing you to connect your blue-ray disc player, gaming console, cable box and 3 other HDMI capable devices. Many have commented that for the price, the menu interface displayed on the TV could be better.

The remote control that accompanies this receiver is part# RM-AAU170. For some people, this remote, with lots of buttons, is very busy and can be confusing to use.

This receiver includes an auto-calibration feature. With the microphone, included with your receiver, you can run a very easy automatic calibration routine or you have the option to manually adjust the speakers the way you want them. If you want surround sound, this receiver has surround sound decoders such as Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Digital EX, Dolby Pro Logic, and many more, to give you the cinema-like experience you are looking for with enhanced, crisp, clear sounds and booming bass. An especially nice feature is that this receiver has multiroom capability, letting you assign different audio for 2 separate rooms. Another feature worth noting is the sound optimizer that will ensure you get the best sound quality at a wide range of volume levels. Although an HDMI high-speed cable is not included, if you purchase a cable you can experience a full high definition 1080p picture screen with digital surround sound. This receiver is loaded with features and delivers pristine, clear, powerful sound quality and is worth the price.

PROS:
• 1050 watts of power
• Powerful, crisp, clear sound quality
• Wifi, Bluetooth and airplay
• Multiroom capability

CONS:
• Menu interface on TV could use improvement
• Remote is busy, and confusing
• HDMI cable not included

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Onkyo TX-NR929 9.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver

FEATURES:

• Built-in WiFi
• Built-in Bluetooth
• 135 watts per channel
• Powers audio in up to 3 zones
• 9 HDMI inputs
• 2 HDMI outputs
• 4K pass-through and upscaling
• Multi-room playback

REMOTE: RC-840M

RATING: 4.5 out of 5

Welcome to a review of the Onkyo TX-NR929 9.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver. The Onkyo TX-NR929 receiver is a powerhouse, full of all the features current technology has to offer. Set-up and installation is simple, especially when connected to the TV which displays an overlay on your screen to facilitate installation. With built-in WiFi and Bluetooth, the streaming capabilities are endless with an expanded selection of online media streaming services such as Pandora, Rhapsody, iHeart, and Spotify, just to name a few. To maximize your entertainment experience, this receiver is equipped with an astonishing 9 HDMI inputs and 2 HDMI outputs to offer you numerous possibilities to connect all of your devices, including a blu-ray, cable box, gaming console, PC, speakers and any other HDMI compatible device you need. Two HDMI outputs are included for high-definition video in two separate zones. The receiver also has the capability of receiving a large amount of audio files from your smartphone, tablet, PC, and NAS devices using the Onkyo remote app.

The part# for the remote control that comes with this receiver is RC-840M. The remote has a button for every input except for bluetooth, much to the disappointment of many users.

Your movies will truly come alive with 4K upscaling provided you have a 4K compatible TV. Even if you don’t have one now, should you purchase one in the future, this receiver will upscale your blu-rays and videos to 4K resolution to give you the cinematic viewing experience you’re looking for. The TX-NR929 is equipped with Audyssey Technology which not only helps you to calibrate your speakers for optimal sound but provides acoustic correction and will ensure consistent volume levels for the very best sound quality available. Without a doubt, this receiver, although not inexpensive, will fulfill all of your needs with top-notch quality.

PROS:
• Built-in Wifi and bluetooth
• 4K upscaling
• Multi-room function
• Automatic calibration

CON:
• No button for bluetooth on remote control

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Onkyo TX-NR828 7.2-Ch Network A/V Receiver

FEATURES:

• THX certification
• Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth
• 8 in/2 out HDMI ports
• Instaprevue
• Audyssey Technology for Superior Sound
• Multi-room capability
• Overlaid menus for quick adjustments
• 4K upscaling

REMOTE: RC-840M

RATING: 4 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Onkyo TX-NR828 7.2-Ch Network A/V Receiver. If ever there was a high-end receiver you could count on for all of your music and viewing needs, this is it. Not only is the TX-NR828 loaded with the most desirable features on the market, it is THX certified meaning you get nothing but the very finest in what a home theater system can offer. The user interface is easy to understand and very intuitive. The microphone enclosed with your receiver is used for automatic calibration of your speakers which will optimize the sound quality by calibrating every speaker based on where you will be seated when listening to music or watching movies. The receiver is equipped with a phenomenal amount of HDMI ports, for your convenience, to connect your blu-ray, gaming console, cable/satellite box, PC, TV and more. 4k upscaling is an important feature because it allows your videos and blu-ray movies to be upscaled to 4K resolution with any HDTV or 4K compatible TV.

The remote control that comes with this receiver is part # RC-840M. Some users have expressed disappointment that the buttons do not have backlighting, making it very difficult to navigate at night.

The TX-NR828 is equipped with one of the most sought after features in today’s market, built-in WiFi and Bluetooth. These features make streaming movies and videos a breeze and you will have access to the many music service providers on the internet such as Pandora, Rhapsody, Slacker, Spotify and many more. Instaprevue technology is very helpful as it will allow you to view icons of your devices on the screen to identify what is going on with all your connected devices such as your blu-ray and gaming console. The sound quality that this receiver delivers is exceptional, with crisp, clear mid-tones, to powerful, rich bass. This powerhouse of a receiver, packed with many important features, should be on your list of considerations when looking to put together a top of the line home theater system.

PROS:
• Excellent sound quality
• 8 in/2 out HDMI ports
• Automatic calibration of speakers
• Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth

CONS:
• No backlighting of the buttons on the remote control.
• Onkyo app for iPhones could use some upgrading

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DENON AVR-X4000 7.2 Channel Home Theater Receiver with Apple AirPlay

FEATURES:
• HT & Audyssey LFC
• DTS Neo:X (9.1 ch), Audyssey Sub E
• Audyssey MultEQ XT32, Audyssey Sub EQ HT & Audyssey LFC
• Three HDMI outputs with multi-zone distribution and InstaPrevue technology
• Networking with AirPlay, Pandora, Spotify, & SiriusXM Internet Radio

REMOTE CONTROL: RC-1185

RATING: 4.2/5.0

Welcome to a review of Denon’s AVR-X4000 7.2 Channel Home Theater Receiver. It has been stated that Denon makes some of the best affordable home cinema receivers. This is a receiver for serious AV fans, and makes a few more upgrades to the aesthetics than some of Denon’s lower end models. Its front panel has a retractable cover that hides all of the buttons and sockets, leaving just the two knobs and the display visible – a smart look.

This is an easy receiver to setup and with the help of the included remote control, part number RC-1185, you will get through all the menu options and features with ease.

There are a few other features that make the AVR-X4000 standout from the rest. Perhaps most significantly, the AVR-X4000 has three HDMI outputs – entry-level receivers only have one. Two of the outputs have to share a source, letting you, for example, plug in a projector and TV to the same piece of video equipment while the third can take video and audio from a completely different source. This lets the Denon AVR-X4000 become the ‘brain’ of a multi-room setup.

You can set up the AVR-X4000 to enjoy music and video in the main room, while others enjoy music and video in a second room. A second zone HDMI output lets others enjoy a different program in another room, and the Amp Assign function lets you use two of the amplifier channels to drive stereo speakers in the second room. By connecting a stereo amp to the AVR-X4000, you can even have a third audio source playing in another room. This is an excellent feature for families with different tastes.

Consumers are raving about the multiple great features and impressive high quality sound. This receiver may appear a bit pricey by some but it definitely has the power and quality that make it worth the price.

PROS:
• Sound quality
• 3 HDMI output
• Amp Assign

CONS:
• No WiFi
• Not much change from 4520 model

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