Whether you're building your first home theater or upgrading an existing setup, choosing the right receiver is crucial. Let's compare two popular Sony options: the newer STR-AN1000 ($598) and the budget-friendly STR-DH590 ($298).
A home theater receiver acts as the brain of your entertainment system. It processes audio signals, powers your speakers, switches between video sources, and ensures everything works together seamlessly. When evaluating receivers, we need to consider several key factors:
The STR-DH590 was released in 2018 as Sony's entry-level receiver, while the STR-AN1000 launched in 2023 with significant technological advances. In these five years, we've seen major changes in home theater technology:
The STR-AN1000 supports 7.2 channels, meaning you can connect seven main speakers and two subwoofers. It handles modern formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, which create a three-dimensional soundfield by adding height speakers to your setup. It also includes Sony's 360 Reality Audio, which simulates additional speakers for an even more immersive experience.
The STR-DH590 offers 5.2 channel support - perfect for a traditional surround sound setup with front speakers, a center channel, surround speakers, and up to two subwoofers. While it can't process Dolby Atmos or DTS:X, it handles standard surround formats like Dolby Digital and DTS perfectly well.
Here's where we see the biggest technological leap. The STR-AN1000 supports:
The STR-DH590 handles:
For most current content, both receivers perform admirably. However, if you're a serious gamer or want to future-proof your system, the AN1000's advanced video capabilities make a significant difference.
Modern home theaters aren't just about physical connections anymore. The STR-AN1000 embraces this with:
The STR-DH590 keeps things simpler with:
Both receivers include automatic speaker calibration, but there's a notable difference in sophistication. The AN1000's Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX system measures speaker distance, angle, and frequency response in three dimensions. It can optimize sound for multiple seating positions and handles height channels effectively.
The DH590's basic DCAC system still helps achieve proper speaker levels and distances but lacks the advanced features of its newer sibling.
In practical use, both receivers deliver strong performance for their intended audiences. The STR-AN1000 shines in larger rooms with more complex speaker setups, particularly when using height channels for Dolby Atmos. Its extra power and advanced processing create a more enveloping soundstage.
The STR-DH590 performs admirably in medium-sized rooms with traditional 5.1 setups. While it lacks some modern features, it delivers clean, powerful sound that will satisfy most users.
The price difference between these receivers is significant - about $300. The question becomes: do you need the extra features?
The STR-AN1000 justifies its higher price if you:
The STR-DH590 offers excellent value if you:
Consider these questions when choosing between the two:
If you're building a serious home theater and can afford it, the STR-AN1000 offers significant advantages and future-proofing. Its support for modern audio formats, advanced video capabilities, and superior room calibration make it a worthy investment.
However, if you're setting up a simpler system or working with a tighter budget, the STR-DH590 remains an excellent choice. It handles the basics well and delivers great performance for the price.
Remember: the best receiver is the one that meets your specific needs without breaking your budget. Both these Sony options excel in their respective categories - it's just a matter of matching them to your requirements.
| Sony STR-AN1000 ($598) | Sony STR-DH590 ($298) |
|---|---|
| Channel Support - Determines how many speakers you can use and whether you can add height channels for immersive audio | |
| 7.2 channels (supports Atmos/DTS:X height speakers) | 5.2 channels (traditional surround only) |
| Video Pass-through - Critical for gaming and future-proofing | |
| 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz with HDMI 2.1 | 4K/60Hz with HDMI 2.0b |
| Room Calibration - Better calibration means more optimal sound for your specific room | |
| Advanced D.C.A.C. IX with multiple positions | Basic D.C.A.C. single position |
| Audio Processing - Determines what sound formats you can experience | |
| Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, 360 Reality Audio | Standard Dolby/DTS surround only |
| HDMI Ports - More ports mean connecting more devices without switching cables | |
| 6 inputs, 2 outputs | 4 inputs, 1 output |
| Streaming Features - Convenience of built-in music services | |
| Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Airplay 2, Chromecast | Bluetooth only |
| Power Output (6 ohms, 1kHz) - Higher power helps with larger rooms and demanding speakers | |
| 165W per channel | 145W per channel |
| HDR Support - Affects picture quality with compatible TVs | |
| HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG with HDMI 2.1 | HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG with HDMI 2.0 |
The Sony STR-AN1000 ($598) is the clear choice for Dolby Atmos, as it supports 7.2 channels with height speaker capability. The STR-DH590 ($298) doesn't support Dolby Atmos at all.
The STR-AN1000 costs $598, while the STR-DH590 is priced at $298, making it $300 less expensive.
The STR-AN1000 is significantly better for gaming, supporting 4K/120Hz and 8K/60Hz with HDMI 2.1. The STR-DH590 only supports 4K/60Hz.
Yes, both support 4K video, but the STR-AN1000 supports higher refresh rates (120Hz) compared to the STR-DH590's 60Hz maximum.
The STR-DH590 is ideal for small rooms, offering 5.2 channels which is plenty for compact spaces. The STR-AN1000 might be overkill unless you plan to upgrade later.
The STR-AN1000 offers comprehensive streaming with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Airplay 2, and Chromecast. The STR-DH590 only supports Bluetooth streaming.
The STR-AN1000 features advanced D.C.A.C. IX calibration for multiple positions, while the STR-DH590 uses basic D.C.A.C. for single-position calibration.
The STR-AN1000 has 6 HDMI inputs and 2 outputs, while the STR-DH590 has 4 inputs and 1 output.
The STR-AN1000 is more future-proof with HDMI 2.1, 8K support, and advanced audio formats. The STR-DH590 uses older HDMI 2.0b technology.
Yes, both support HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HLG, but the STR-AN1000 has newer HDMI 2.1 implementation compared to the STR-DH590's HDMI 2.0b.
The STR-DH590 is excellent for basic 5.1 setups and offers great value. The STR-AN1000 is better if you plan to expand beyond basic surround sound.
Only spend more on the STR-AN1000 if you need Atmos, 8K/4K 120Hz gaming support, or advanced streaming features. The STR-DH590 is sufficient for standard surround sound and 4K/60Hz content.
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: 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 - 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
