Comparing Sony AV Receivers: Making the Right Choice for Your Home Theater

When setting up a home theater system in 2024, choosing the right AV receiver is crucial. Today we're comparing two popular Sony models: the STR-DH590 ($298) and STR-DH790 ($348), both released in 2018. While these receivers aren't the newest on the market, they remain solid choices offering great value for their features.

Understanding AV Receivers

Before diving into the comparison, let's understand what an AV receiver actually does. Think of it as the command center of your home theater - it processes audio signals, powers your speakers, switches between video sources, and ensures everything works together smoothly. The name "AV receiver" comes from its dual role in handling both audio and video signals.

Key Differences That Matter

Channel Support and Room Setup

The most significant difference between these models is their channel configuration. The STR-DH590 is a 5.2-channel receiver, meaning it supports five main speakers (front left, center, front right, and two surrounds) plus up to two subwoofers. This setup is perfect for standard surround sound and covers most movie and gaming needs.

The STR-DH790 steps up to 7.2 channels, adding two more speakers that can be used either as rear surrounds or, more importantly, as height channels for Dolby Atmos. Dolby Atmos is a technology that adds a vertical dimension to sound, creating a more immersive experience - imagine hearing a helicopter truly passing overhead rather than just around you.

Audio Processing and Formats

Both receivers handle standard audio formats like Dolby Digital and DTS, but the DH790's support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X is a significant advantage. These object-based audio formats are becoming more common on streaming services and Blu-ray discs, making the DH790 more future-proof.

Room Calibration

Both models include Sony's Digital Cinema Auto Calibration (D.C.A.C.), but the DH790 features an advanced version. This system uses a microphone (included) to analyze your room's acoustics and adjust settings automatically. The DH790's enhanced calibration does a noticeably better job with speaker distances and levels, especially in challenging room layouts.

Common Ground

Video Capabilities

Both receivers support 4K HDR pass-through, including HDR10 and Dolby Vision. This means they can handle the latest video formats without degrading quality. They both offer four HDMI inputs and one output, all supporting HDCP 2.2 (the copy protection standard needed for 4K content).

Power Output

Both deliver 90 watts per channel (measured at 6 ohms, 20-20,000 Hz, with 0.09% distortion). This is plenty of power for most home theaters and can easily fill medium to large rooms with clear, dynamic sound.

Real-World Performance

In practical use, both receivers perform admirably for their price points. The STR-DH590 excels in traditional surround sound setups, providing clear dialogue, impactful effects, and good musical performance. The DH790's additional capabilities really shine in properly set up Atmos systems, adding a noticeable layer of immersion to compatible content.

Gaming Consideration

Both receivers support 4K/60Hz pass-through and have reasonably low input lag, making them suitable for gaming. However, neither supports HDMI 2.1 features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) or 4K/120Hz, which might matter for serious PS5 or Xbox Series X gamers.

Value Proposition

The $50 price difference between these models is quite reasonable considering what you get. The STR-DH790's Atmos support alone justifies the premium, not to mention the improved room calibration and additional channels.

Technology Evolution

Since these models' 2018 release, newer receivers have added features like HDMI 2.1 and improved room correction. However, these newer models typically cost significantly more, and for many users, the features in these Sony receivers remain more than adequate.

How to Decide

Choose the STR-DH590 if:

• You're setting up a standard 5.1 surround system
• You have a strict budget
• Your room layout doesn't accommodate height speakers
• You primarily watch regular TV and movies

Choose the STR-DH790 if:

• You want to set up an Atmos system now or in the future
• Your room can accommodate height speakers
• You watch a lot of movies and want the best possible audio
• You're interested in future-proofing your setup

Personal Experience and Recommendations

Having worked with both receivers, I consistently recommend the STR-DH790 unless budget is extremely tight. The Atmos capability and better room calibration make it worth the extra investment, even if you don't plan to use height channels immediately. The standard surround sound performance is also slightly better, likely due to the improved calibration system.

However, the STR-DH590 shouldn't be dismissed. It's a capable performer that handles the basics very well, and not everyone needs or wants the complexity of a full Atmos setup. I've installed several DH590s in smaller rooms and living rooms where simpler operation was preferred, and they've performed admirably.

Final Thoughts

Both receivers represent good value in 2024, despite being older models. While newer receivers offer additional features, they often cost significantly more. For most users, either of these Sony receivers will provide excellent performance for years to come. The choice really comes down to your room setup, future plans, and whether you value the extra immersion Atmos can provide.

Remember: if you think you might want Atmos in the future, spending the extra $50 now on the DH790 is much cheaper than replacing the entire receiver later. However, if you're certain a 5.1 system meets your needs, the DH590 delivers great performance at a lower price point.

Sony STR-DH590 5.2 Channel 4K HDR AV Receiver Deals and Prices

Sony STR-DH790 7.2 Channel Home Theater AV Receiver Deals and Prices