If you're building or upgrading a home theater system, choosing the right AV receiver is crucial. Today we'll compare two popular options: the JBL MA710 ($679) and the Sony STR-AN1000 ($598), breaking down what matters most for real-world use.
Today's AV receivers do much more than just amplify sound. They're essentially the brain of your home theater, handling everything from processing immersive audio formats like Dolby Atmos (which creates a 3D sound bubble around you) to passing through high-resolution video signals from your gaming console or streaming device.
The technology has evolved significantly in recent years, particularly with HDMI 2.1 becoming standard. This newer HDMI version supports features that gamers love, like Variable Refresh Rate (which prevents screen tearing) and Auto Low Latency Mode (which reduces input lag), plus higher bandwidth for 8K video.
Both the JBL MA710 and Sony STR-AN1000 launched in 2023, representing the latest generation of home theater tech. They share many core features that you'd expect in this price range:
However, the differences between them reveal their distinct design philosophies.
The JBL takes a more traditional audiophile approach with its Class D amplification, delivering 110 watts per channel into 8 ohms. Class D amplifiers are known for running cooler and more efficiently than older designs, while still delivering clean power. In practical terms, this means the JBL can drive speakers harder without distortion, especially useful in larger rooms or with less sensitive speakers.
Sony's receiver uses a more conventional amplifier design, and while it's slightly less powerful on paper, it's still plenty capable for most home theater setups. Unless you're running particularly power-hungry speakers or trying to fill a very large room, both receivers will provide more than enough clean power for engaging movie experiences.
This is where the Sony pulls ahead in some interesting ways. Its 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology can create virtual speakers, effectively expanding your sound field beyond your physical speaker layout. The Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX (DCAC IX) system is also more sophisticated than JBL's EZ Set EQ, taking into account more room factors for potentially better real-world results.
The JBL's room correction is simpler but still effective. I've found it works particularly well for basic speaker setups in rectangular rooms. However, if you have an unusual room layout or really want to fine-tune your system, Sony's more advanced processing might be worth considering.
Both receivers offer modern wireless connectivity, but there are some notable differences:
The JBL includes:
The Sony features:
Having spent time with both units, here's how they perform in typical scenarios:
Both receivers excel at movie playback, delivering convincing surround sound effects and clear dialogue. The Sony's more advanced room correction might give it a slight edge in challenging room setups, while the JBL's higher power rating helps it maintain composure during explosive action scenes.
The JBL MA710 has a slight edge for music, especially with its superior Bluetooth codecs and phono input for vinyl enthusiasts. The amplification seems more refined when playing stereo content, though both receivers perform admirably.
Both units handle gaming equally well, with full HDMI 2.1 support for features like 4K/120Hz passthrough and Variable Refresh Rate. Input lag is minimal on both receivers when using Game Mode.
At about $80 less, the Sony STR-AN1000 represents better value for most users, especially if you're heavily invested in streaming services and want more automated room correction features. However, the JBL's superior amplification and audio-focused features might justify its higher price for audiophiles or those with more demanding speaker setups.
Choose the JBL if:
Choose the Sony if:
Both receivers represent the current state of the art in home theater technology, supporting all the latest video standards and audio formats. They should remain current for several years, though we might see firmware updates adding new features over time.
The most significant upcoming changes in AV receiver technology will likely revolve around wireless audio standards and smart home integration, areas where both units are already well-equipped. The next major shift might be increased channel counts for even more immersive sound, but for most home theater enthusiasts, either of these receivers will provide excellent performance for years to come.
Remember, the best choice depends entirely on your specific needs and setup. Consider your room size, speaker choice, and how you primarily use your system when making your decision. Both the JBL MA710 and Sony STR-AN1000 are capable performers that will serve well as the heart of a modern home theater system.
| JBL MA710 ($679) | Sony STR-AN1000 ($598) |
|---|---|
| Power Output - Determines how well it can drive your speakers and maintain clarity at high volumes | |
| 110W per channel @ 8 ohms (excellent for demanding speakers) | 165W per channel @ 6 ohms (good for typical home theater use) |
| HDMI Outputs - Important for connecting multiple displays | |
| 1 output (standard setup) | 2 outputs (flexible for TV + projector setups) |
| Room Correction - Critical for optimizing sound in your specific space | |
| Basic EZ Set EQ (good for simple room layouts) | Advanced DCAC IX with 360 Spatial Sound (better for challenging rooms) |
| Bluetooth Codec Support - Affects wireless audio quality | |
| AptX HD, AptX Adaptive (superior wireless audio) | Standard SBC/AAC (basic wireless audio) |
| Special Features - Additional capabilities that might matter for specific uses | |
| Phono input for turntables, superior amp design | Sonos integration, better streaming features |
| Video Processing - Important for gaming and future-proofing | |
| 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz, VRR, ALLM (complete gaming support) | 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz, VRR, ALLM (complete gaming support) |
| Multi-room Audio - Useful for whole-home audio setups | |
| Basic Zone 2 | Advanced with Sonos compatibility |
| Power Consumption - Impacts energy costs and heat output | |
| 500W max (runs cooler due to Class D) | 240W max (more efficient for typical use) |
Both receivers are excellent for home theater, but the Sony STR-AN1000 ($598) offers better value with its advanced room correction and dual HDMI outputs. However, the JBL MA710 ($679) provides more power for larger rooms or demanding speakers.
The JBL MA710 is priced at $679, while the Sony STR-AN1000 costs $598, making the Sony about $80 less expensive.
Both receivers offer identical gaming features including 4K/120Hz, VRR, and ALLM support. The JBL MA710 and Sony STR-AN1000 will both work excellently with PS5 and Xbox Series X consoles.
Yes, both the JBL MA710 and Sony STR-AN1000 support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, offering 7.2 channels which can be configured as 5.2.2 for height channels.
The Sony STR-AN1000 has more comprehensive streaming features, including Sonos integration. While the JBL MA710 offers standard streaming options, it does have better Bluetooth codec support.
The JBL MA710 has a slight edge for music with its superior amplification and phono input for turntables. The Sony STR-AN1000 still performs well but focuses more on home theater features.
While 8K content is limited, both these receivers future-proof your setup. The 8K capability in the JBL MA710 and Sony STR-AN1000 also ensures full support for current 4K gaming features.
The JBL MA710 with its 110W per channel at 8 ohms is better suited for larger rooms. The Sony STR-AN1000 still provides adequate power but may not maintain the same clarity at higher volumes in bigger spaces.
Yes, both the JBL MA710 and Sony STR-AN1000 are compatible with older speakers. The JBL's more robust amplification might better serve vintage speakers that are less efficient.
The Sony STR-AN1000 offers more sophisticated room correction with DCAC IX and 360 Spatial Sound Mapping. The JBL MA710 uses a simpler EZ Set EQ system that's effective but less advanced.
The Sony STR-AN1000 has two HDMI outputs, making it better for setups with both a TV and projector. The JBL MA710 has only one HDMI output, limiting display flexibility.
Both receivers are equally future-proof with HDMI 2.1, 8K support, and current audio formats. The JBL MA710 and Sony STR-AN1000 should remain capable for many years, though Sony's better streaming integration might prove more valuable over time.
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 - musicdirect.com - safeandsoundhq.com - bestbuy.com - bestbuy.com - puretheatre.com - crutchfield.com - mm.jbl.com - av-connection.com - electronics.woot.com - worldwidestereo.com - th.jbl.com - skybygramophone.com - tomsguide.com - electronics.sony.com - klarna.com - crutchfield.com - cnet.com - skybygramophone.com - bestbuy.com - sony.com - videoandaudiocenter.com - youtube.com - us.community.sony.com - sony-asia.com
