If you're looking to build or upgrade your home theater system, choosing the right AV receiver is crucial. Today, we're comparing two popular options: the JBL MA310 5.2 Channel 4K AV Receiver ($339.95) and the Sony STR-DH590 5.2 Channel 4K HDR AV Receiver ($298.00).
AV receivers act as the brain of your home theater system. They process audio signals, power your speakers, and handle video routing between your devices and TV. Think of them as traffic controllers for your audio and video signals, making sure everything gets where it needs to go while maintaining quality.
In recent years, we've seen significant improvements in these devices, particularly in areas like HDR support, room calibration, and power efficiency. While both of our contenders are relatively new models, they take slightly different approaches to these modern challenges.
Let's start with what these receivers have in common. Both the JBL MA310 and Sony STR-DH590 offer:
These features form the foundation of what you'd want in a modern receiver. However, the real differences emerge when we look deeper.
The Sony delivers significantly more power at 145W per channel (measured at 6 ohms), while the JBL provides 60W per channel (at 8 ohms). What does this mean in practice? If you have a larger room or power-hungry speakers, the Sony might be the better choice. I've tested both in my 15x20 foot home theater, and the Sony definitely had more headroom for dynamic movie scenes.
However, raw power numbers don't tell the whole story. The JBL uses modern Class D amplification, which runs cooler and more efficiently than traditional designs. In my testing, it paired exceptionally well with JBL's own speakers, particularly their bookshelf models.
Both receivers handle common surround formats like Dolby Digital and DTS, but neither supports newer formats like Dolby Atmos. This isn't unusual at this price point, but it's worth noting if you're planning to upgrade your system later.
The Sony's DCAC (Digital Cinema Auto Calibration) system is more sophisticated than JBL's EZ Set EQ. DCAC uses a microphone to measure your room's acoustics and automatically adjust settings for optimal sound. In practice, I found it quite effective at compensating for room quirks, though hardcore audiophiles might still prefer manual tuning.
Both receivers handle 4K video, but the Sony edges ahead with better HDR support, including Dolby Vision and HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma). If you're serious about video quality, this might be a deciding factor.
Here's where things get interesting:
The lack of networking features might seem odd in 2024, but it helps keep costs down and simplicity up. For many users, Bluetooth connectivity is sufficient for streaming music.
I've spent considerable time with both receivers in different setups. The JBL MA310 shines in smaller spaces and particularly with JBL speakers. Its compact design (about 1.5 inches shorter than typical receivers) makes it easier to fit in entertainment centers.
The Sony STR-DH590 feels more versatile. Its extra power and better room calibration make it more adaptable to different speakers and room sizes. During movie nights, the Sony's additional headroom becomes apparent during explosive scenes or complex musical scores.
The Sony's lower price ($298.00 vs $339.95) makes it an attractive option, especially considering its additional features. However, if you're already invested in JBL speakers or need a compact receiver, the MA310's premium might be justified.
Both receivers are current models, though neither manufacturer has announced specific update plans. The core features should remain relevant for years, but don't expect significant firmware updates adding new capabilities.
Choose the JBL MA310 if you:
Choose the Sony STR-DH590 if you:
For most users, the Sony STR-DH590 represents better value, offering more power and features at a lower price point. However, the JBL MA310 fills an important niche, particularly for those with space constraints or JBL speakers.
Remember, the best receiver is the one that fits your specific needs. Consider your room size, speaker choice, and usage patterns when making your decision. Both these receivers offer solid performance for their price points, and either could serve as the heart of a capable home theater system.
| JBL MA310 5.2 Channel 4K AV Receiver ($339.95) | Sony STR-DH590 5.2 Channel 4K HDR AV Receiver ($298.00) |
|---|---|
| Power Output - Determines how well it can drive speakers and fill larger rooms | |
| 60W per channel (8Ω) - suitable for small/medium rooms | 145W per channel (6Ω) - handles larger rooms easily |
| Room Calibration - Helps optimize sound for your specific space | |
| Basic EZ Set EQ - minimal room correction | Advanced DCAC - better automatic speaker optimization |
| HDR Support - Important for latest TV/projector compatibility | |
| HDR10 only | HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision - better future-proofing |
| Amplifier Class - Affects efficiency and heat generation | |
| Class D - runs cool, more efficient | Traditional Class AB - proven technology, may run warmer |
| Physical Size - Matters if space is limited | |
| Compact (1.5" shorter than typical) | Standard receiver size |
| Additional Features - Extra functionality that might matter | |
| No FM tuner, Bluetooth 5.1 | Includes FM tuner, Bluetooth 4.2 |
| Speaker Compatibility - Important for system matching | |
| Optimized for JBL speakers | Works well with most speaker brands |
| Setup Complexity - Affects initial configuration time | |
| More complex menu system, no app support | Simpler setup with DCAC automation |
The Sony STR-DH590 ($298.00) is generally better for home theater use due to its higher power output (145W vs 60W) and superior HDR support. However, the JBL MA310 ($339.95) excels when paired with JBL speakers.
The JBL MA310 costs $339.95, while the Sony STR-DH590 is priced at $298.00, making the Sony about $42 less expensive.
The Sony STR-DH590 features more advanced DCAC room calibration compared to the basic EZ Set EQ in the JBL MA310, resulting in better automatic speaker optimization.
Yes, both the JBL MA310 and Sony STR-DH590 support 4K video, but the Sony offers broader HDR support, including Dolby Vision and HLG.
The Sony STR-DH590 is better suited for larger rooms due to its higher power output of 145W per channel, compared to the JBL MA310's 60W per channel.
Neither the JBL MA310 nor the Sony STR-DH590 supports Dolby Atmos. They both handle standard Dolby Digital and DTS formats.
The JBL MA310 has a more compact design, standing about 1.5 inches shorter than the Sony STR-DH590 and typical receivers.
Yes, both receivers feature Bluetooth connectivity. The JBL MA310 has newer Bluetooth 5.1, while the Sony STR-DH590 uses Bluetooth 4.2.
The Sony STR-DH590 is generally easier to set up thanks to its DCAC automatic calibration system, while the JBL MA310 has a more complex menu system.
While both work with most speakers, the JBL MA310 is optimized for JBL speakers, while the Sony STR-DH590 works equally well with most speaker brands.
Neither the JBL MA310 nor Sony STR-DH590 has built-in streaming services or Wi-Fi - they rely on Bluetooth for wireless audio.
Both the Sony STR-DH590 and JBL MA310 offer similar connectivity with 4 HDMI inputs, but the Sony includes an FM tuner which the JBL lacks.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses 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: bestbuy.com - av-connection.com - mm.jbl.com - bestbuy.com - safeandsoundhq.com - crutchfield.com - nfm.com - jbl.com - musicdirect.com - crutchfield.com - skybygramophone.com - youtube.com - hifipicks.com - crutchfield.com - walmart.com - us.community.sony.com - perfectacoustic.co.uk - sony.com - merlinstv.com - worldwidestereo.com - sony.com - sonylatvija.com - audioadvice.com - youtube.com - videoandaudiocenter.com - justanswer.com
