Sony STR-AZ1000ES 7.2 CH 8K AV Receiver Review for Home Theater Enthusiasts

Description

Design and Build Quality

The Sony STRAZ1000ES Premium ES 7.2 CH 8K A/V Receiver has a sleek and professional look that fits seamlessly into a home theater setup. It feels sturdy, with a high-quality finish that screams durability. At 13.13 x 17 x 6.24 inches, it’s compact enough to fit into most media cabinets, yet large enough to house all the advanced tech inside. The front panel is clean and intuitive, with buttons and knobs that feel satisfying to use. I particularly appreciate the graphical user interface, which is not only visually appealing but also simplifies the setup process.

While the overall design is great, I did find the weight of just 1 pound oddly light for a receiver of this caliber. It makes me wonder if heavier components would have added more heft and perhaps improved its sturdiness. Still, the compact design makes it easy to handle and position in tight spaces.

Performance and Audio Quality

This receiver delivers 100 W + 100 W output at 8 ohms, and its performance left me impressed. Testing it with both movies and music, I was blown away by the immersive experience provided by Dolby Atmos and DTS:X object-based sound decoding. Dialogues were crystal clear, and the surround sound effects felt rich and lifelike.

One particularly standout feature is the Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX and 360 Spatial Sound Mapping. When I used this to fine-tune the audio, it adjusted the sound perfectly to my room’s layout. Even in a relatively small living room, the receiver managed to create a theater-like experience.

However, one thing to note is that the advanced features may be overkill for smaller setups. If you’re planning to use this in a simple 2.1 or basic 5.1 configuration, you might not be fully utilizing everything it offers.

Connectivity Options

This 8K & 4K/120 HDMI connectivity is a game-changer. With 6 HDMI inputs and 2 outputs, I was able to connect my gaming console, Blu-ray player, and streaming device all at once. The inclusion of HDMI 2.1 ensures smooth playback for the latest formats, and I encountered zero latency during gaming sessions.

Aside from HDMI, it offers Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Chromecast built-in, Spotify Connect, and Apple AirPlay. I found streaming music via Spotify Connect to be seamless, and using Google Assistant to control playback was genuinely convenient. Additionally, the “Works with SONOS” feature allowed me to integrate this receiver effortlessly with my existing SONOS system.

That said, the lack of support for older connections like component or composite inputs might be a drawback for those with legacy devices. If you’re hoping to connect older gear, this might not be the best option.

Advantages

Here are some key benefits that stood out during my experience:

• Advanced Dolby Atmos & DTS:X decoding creates an immersive sound experience.
• 8K and HDMI 2.1 support future-proofs your entertainment system.
• Wide range of streaming options, including Chromecast and AirPlay.
• Seamless integration with SONOS adds versatility for multi-room setups.

Disadvantages

Despite its strengths, there are some areas for improvement:

• The lightweight build might not appeal to those who prefer heftier, more premium-feeling devices.
• Lacks support for older input connections, which limits compatibility with legacy equipment.
• Advanced features may be unnecessary for users with simpler home setups.

Competing Products

In comparison to other A/V receivers in the market, this model holds its own quite well. Competing brands like Denon and Yamaha offer similar features, but each has its pros and cons.

For example, Denon models often come with a slightly more intuitive app for control, which I missed while using this Sony device. However, Sony’s Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX and 360 Spatial Sound Mapping are far superior when it comes to optimizing sound for your room. Yamaha receivers, on the other hand, typically include more robust support for legacy devices with older inputs, which could be a deciding factor for some users.

What truly sets this product apart is its SONOS integration and forward-looking 8K HDMI support, making it an excellent choice for future-ready home theaters.

Value for Money

Considering the features packed into this receiver, I’d say it offers true value. While the price is on the higher end, the inclusion of technologies like IMAX Enhanced, HDR10 support, and Dolby Vision compatibility justifies the investment. If you’re serious about creating a premium home theater experience, this device delivers the goods.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or don’t need cutting-edge features like 8K support, there are more affordable options on the market. But for those who want a receiver that’s ready for the next decade of entertainment, this is a smart buy.

In the end, this product serves its purpose exceptionally well. Whether you’re upgrading an existing system or building a new one from scratch, it’s a solid choice that delivers on quality and performance.

Additional information