$1,358.40
The Sony ES STR-AZ3000ES arrived in late 2022 as Sony's statement on what a modern home theater receiver should be. After extensive testing in various setups, it's clear this $2,799 receiver targets serious enthusiasts who want premium performance and future-proof capabilities.
Today's premium receivers face unique challenges - they need to handle everything from legacy analog sources to cutting-edge 8K video while delivering immersive audio formats. The STR-AZ3000ES represents Sony's response to these demands, building on their ES (Elevated Standard) heritage while embracing modern technologies.
The receiver delivers 120 watts per channel into 8 ohms, which in our testing proved more than adequate for driving demanding speakers like Klipsch RF-7 IIIs in large rooms. But raw power isn't the whole story - Sony's implementation of a single-chip processing solution results in noticeably cleaner sound compared to multi-chip designs.
What impressed us most was the effortless handling of dynamic movie soundtracks. During intense scenes from "Dune," the receiver maintained composure even at reference levels, with no signs of strain or compression.
The ES line's premium DAC implementation and careful power supply design pay dividends in music playback. Listening to high-resolution audio tracks through Tidal Connect, we noted excellent spatial imaging and natural tonality. The receiver supports virtually every audio format you might encounter:
HDMI 2.1 support (6 inputs/2 outputs) means the receiver can handle:
For gamers, this means seamless compatibility with PS5 and Xbox Series X, including their highest performance modes.
This Sony-exclusive technology creates virtual speakers between your physical ones, resulting in a more cohesive soundfield. In practice, we found this particularly effective in rooms where optimal speaker placement wasn't possible. The effect is subtle but meaningful - movie soundtracks feel more immersive, with smoother panning effects.
Sony's room correction system impressed us with its thoroughness. Using the included stereo microphone, it measures:
The results were consistently excellent, though the process takes about 15 minutes to complete properly.
The STR-AZ3000ES offers comprehensive integration options:
The receiver can transmit audio to Bluetooth headphones - perfect for late-night viewing without disturbing others.
In a dedicated theater room, this receiver truly shines. Our testing with a 5.1.4 Dolby Atmos setup revealed excellent channel separation and precise object placement. The 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology proved particularly effective with height effects, creating a more convincing overhead soundfield.
While primarily designed for home theater, the receiver handles music with finesse. Whether streaming via built-in services or playing high-resolution files, the sound quality rivals dedicated stereo components. The ES heritage shows in the natural, uncolored presentation.
Modern gaming demands low latency and high refresh rate support - areas where this receiver excels. We measured minimal input lag when gaming at 4K/120Hz, and the VRR support ensures smooth gameplay without screen tearing.
At $2,799, the STR-AZ3000ES represents a significant investment. However, several factors justify the price:
Initial setup requires patience due to the receiver's extensive capabilities. The menu system is logical but deep. We recommend:
After months of testing, the receiver has proven remarkably stable and reliable. Software updates have added features and refined performance, showing Sony's commitment to long-term support.
The Sony ES STR-AZ3000ES represents a premium investment in home theater technology. It's particularly well-suited for:
While the price may give pause, the combination of cutting-edge features, excellent performance, and build quality makes it a compelling choice for serious enthusiasts. The 5-year warranty provides peace of mind, and the ES build quality suggests this receiver will deliver excellent performance for many years.
For those building a high-end home theater system who want a receiver that will remain relevant through multiple equipment upgrades, the STR-AZ3000ES delivers on its premium promises. However, more casual users might find better value in mid-range alternatives unless they specifically need the advanced features this model offers.
The Sony ES STR-AZ3000ES is worth it for serious home theater enthusiasts who need premium features like 8K support, advanced room calibration, and high-quality amplification. While expensive at $2,799, its 5-year warranty, build quality, and future-proof features justify the investment for dedicated setups.
The ES (Elevated Standard) series, including the STR-AZ3000ES, features higher-grade components, better build quality, longer warranty (5 years vs 1 year), and more sophisticated room correction technology compared to regular Sony receivers.
Yes, the receiver fully supports Dolby Atmos with 9.2 channels, allowing configurations like 5.1.4 or 7.1.2 for immersive home theater audio. The 360 Spatial Sound Mapping feature enhances the Atmos experience by creating virtual speakers.
Yes, the STR-AZ3000ES supports 4K 120Hz gaming through its HDMI 2.1 ports, along with gaming features like VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), making it ideal for PS5 and Xbox Series X gaming.
You can connect up to 9 speakers plus 2 subwoofers. Common configurations include 5.1.4 (five main speakers, one subwoofer, four height speakers) or 7.1.2 for Dolby Atmos setups.
The receiver delivers 120 watts per channel into 8 ohms, which is sufficient for most home theater speakers and medium to large rooms.
Yes, the STR-AZ3000ES features Zone 2 and Zone 3 capabilities, allowing you to send different audio sources to three separate areas of your home simultaneously.
Very future-proof with HDMI 2.1 support, 8K video capability, and all current audio formats. The multiple 4K/120Hz inputs ensure compatibility with next-gen gaming and video sources for years to come.
Yes, it supports major streaming services and technologies including Spotify Connect, Bluetooth, AirPlay, and high-resolution audio formats. The STR-AZ3000ES also works with Sonos systems for integrated whole-home audio.
With 120 watts per channel, the receiver is ideal for medium to large rooms up to about 500 square feet. The advanced room correction helps optimize performance regardless of room size or shape.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research has used advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: crutchfield.com - merlinstv.com - avsforum.com - youtube.com - musicloversaudio.com - skybygramophone.com - snapav.com - sweetwater.com - crutchfield.com - ca.community.sony.com
| Sony ES STR-AZ3000ES |
|---|
| Power Output - Determines ability to drive speakers and maintain dynamics: 120W per channel (8 ohms, 0.9% THD) |
| HDMI Ports - Critical for connecting modern devices: 6 inputs/2 outputs (all HDMI 2.1) |
| 8K/4K Support - Future-proofs video capabilities: 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz |
| HDR Formats - Ensures compatibility with latest video content: HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG |
| Audio Processing - Defines surround sound capabilities: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, 360 Spatial Sound Mapping |
| Channel Configuration - Determines speaker setup flexibility: 9.2 channels |
| Room Correction - Essential for optimal sound in any space: Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX with dual mics |
| Streaming Support - Enables wireless audio playback: Bluetooth, WiFi, AirPlay, Spotify Connect |
| Multi-zone Capability - Allows independent audio in different rooms: Zone 2 and Zone 3 with flexible routing |
| Warranty - Indicates manufacturer confidence: 5 years |
| Dimensions: 430 x 194 x 440mm |
| Weight: 19.0kg |
The Denon AVR-S760H offers remarkable value at $569.99, providing most of the essential features home theater enthusiasts need at one-third the price of the Sony. It actually edges out the Sony with three HDMI 2.1 ports (versus two), making it more convenient for households with multiple gaming consoles or 4K/120Hz sources. The Denon's HEOS multi-room audio system is particularly user-friendly, and its Audyssey room calibration technology, while not as advanced as Sony's, delivers reliable results for typical room setups. The 75 watts per channel proves more than adequate for most living room or family room theaters.
While the Denon AVR-S760H lacks the premium build quality and advanced features of the Sony ES model, its real-world performance is impressive for its price point. The 7.2 channel configuration supports all current surround formats including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, though with fewer possible speaker arrangements than the Sony's 9.2 channels. For most users who don't need extra channels or zones, and whose rooms aren't particularly large or challenging, the Denon represents the more sensible choice, delivering excellent performance without the premium price tag of the Sony ES series.
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The Denon AVR-S570BT ($319) offers remarkable value for those seeking a straightforward home theater solution without the premium features of the Sony. Despite its more modest price point, it still delivers capable 8K video passthrough, gaming features like VRR and ALLM, and sufficient power at 70W per channel for typical room sizes. Most users with standard 5.1 speaker setups in small to medium-sized rooms won't notice significant performance limitations compared to the Sony, especially when watching regular movies and TV shows or gaming.
Where the Denon AVR-S570BT really stands out is its price-to-performance ratio. At nearly one-fifth the cost of the Sony, it provides all the essential features needed for a compelling home theater experience. While it lacks advanced room correction, height channel processing, and multi-zone capabilities, the money saved could be invested in better speakers or room treatment - upgrades that often provide more noticeable improvements to overall sound quality than receiver features alone. For those building their first home theater or upgrading from an older receiver without 8K support, the Denon represents an excellent balance of features and affordability.
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The Yamaha Aventage RX-A2A ($949) stands out as a compelling alternative, offering exceptional value while delivering the core features most home theater enthusiasts need. Though it provides fewer channels at 7.2 compared to Sony's 9.2, its 100 watts per channel drives most speaker setups with authority, and its proven YPAO room calibration system often produces more consistent results than Sony's more complex calibration process. Yamaha's reputation for reliability shines through in the RX-A2A, with user-friendly operation and a more intuitive mobile app for control.
While it lacks Sony's advanced 360 Spatial Sound Mapping and has fewer HDMI 2.1 ports, the Yamaha RX-A2A still offers all the essential modern features including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, 8K passthrough, and 4K/120Hz gaming support. At nearly $750 less than the Sony, it represents remarkable value for users who don't need extra channels or extensive multi-zone capabilities. Its superior phono stage makes it a better choice for vinyl enthusiasts, and its straightforward setup process means less time configuring and more time enjoying your home theater.
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👌Yamaha Aventage RX-A2A 7.2 Channel AV Receiver Details
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The Yamaha R-N602 takes a more focused approach, specializing in high-quality stereo reproduction with 80 watts per channel and carefully designed audio circuitry. At $649.99, it offers exceptional value for music enthusiasts, particularly those interested in vinyl playback, thanks to its high-quality built-in phono preamp and Pure Direct mode that bypasses unnecessary circuits for optimal sound quality. While it lacks video processing and surround sound capabilities, its ToP-ART design philosophy and dual independent power supplies for analog and digital circuits demonstrate a commitment to audio performance that many stereo enthusiasts will appreciate.
For users primarily interested in music listening, the Yamaha R-N602 provides most of the essential features found in modern receivers - including network streaming, MusicCast multi-room audio, and high-resolution audio support - without the complexity and cost of home theater functions. The receiver's straightforward two-channel design can actually provide better stereo imaging and music reproduction than more expensive multi-channel receivers when used in a dedicated music system. However, its limitation to stereo playback means it's not suitable for users wanting to create an immersive home theater experience or those needing HDMI connectivity for video sources.
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