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Home Cinema Upgrades

Super Sony Stunner
Want to assemble a quality separates package without the hassle? Relax as we do all the hard work for you by assembling this 910 Sony system
f you decide to go the separates route to home cinema, you may find it daunting. With such a range of components to choose from, getting it right can be a delicate balance. Like a favourite recipe, one wrong ingredient can make a big difference to a systems overall flavour. This is why, every month, What Home Cinema will assemble a separates system especially for you. These systems might not be available in one box, but our selections take all the hassle out of choosing separates, for those of you who decide to take that route.

A perfect fit?

Its not just how a system sounds that is important, its how each individual component looks and fits with the other. Sony has always had an eye for stylish and space-saving components and produces several ranges with models that are designed to complement one another in terms of their performance and looks, making it relatively easy to build a home cinema system that works well together. This one-brand home cinema system costs a little over 900 and is made up of three separate components, each finished in matt-silver with the same
functional styling. The DVP-NS705 DVD player may look understated but it caters for SACD (Super Audio CD) playback for better-than-CD audio performance and boasts a slimline front panel measuring just 6cm high. In contrast, the matching STR-DE685 audio-video receiver is considerably bulkier and has a front panel that is a button-pushers delight. But when you consider that it houses five channels of amplification, an RDS tuner and processing for Dolby Digital and DTS 5.1 soundtracks, as well as Dolby Pro-Logic II for the best surround sound from two-channel sources, all is forgiven. There are plenty of connections to hook up a whole host of external equipment and the receivers handset can also access functions on the DVD player and has some illuminated controls. But its the rather cute SA-VE535HS satellite-and-subwoofer speaker package that really catches the eye. The five satellites deserve to win a design award for the elegant styling of their moulded enclosures and look stunning whether theyre placed on a shelf, wall or their own speaker stands (not supplied). They look awesome with the grilles in place,
but removing them reveals two small speaker units, plus a tiny central unit protected by a chrome mesh and shows off their fine craftsmanship. The sub is comparatively brutish, but it is stylish enough. It contains its own internal amplification, which explains the reason for its bulk, and has a level control and a music-and-movie-mode switch along its top to get the correct bass proportions for different types of material.

A class act

The Sony DVP-NS705 is a top-class DVD player and when you consider that it also throws in high-quality SACD playback; it becomes even more attractive. Images from this machine look stunning and vibrant and subtle details appear very clear indeed. As the battle scenes get into full swing in The Phantom Menace, the Sony picks out every last detail of explosions and flying debris that will have you running for cover. Surround effects are equally spectacular and the placement of missiles marries up perfectly with whats happening on the screen, sounding brutally realistic. The subwoofer rumbles along enthusiastically and gives explosions the oomph they
Sony DVP-NS705 DVD/SACD Player 250
Sony STR-DE685 Receiver 280
Although it looks understated, this is a top-class DVD player and comes with SACD playback, too!
Big on bulk but big on features too, the STR-DE685 houses five channels of amplification, an RDS tuner, plus Dolby Digital, DTS 5.1 and Dolby Pro-Logic II processing!
What Home Cinema November 2002

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Test Timecodes

Star Wars Episode I

Chapter 8 Time 14:14

Darker sequences look detailed and the underwater sequences are stunningly realistic from the surround speakers
require, while managing to blend in seamlessly with the tiny satellites without giving away its positioning in the room. The level setting on the top of the sub doesnt need to be too high, but its important to select the correct mode to take full advantage of its capabilities.

Chapter 10 Time 20:34

DVD players pictures are some of the best around and the buildings in the city of Theed look rich and colourful

Loud and clear

The satellites deliver a good degree of bass given their compact size and have an upfront sound that manages to bring dialogue to the fore and distinguish itself from the rest of the action. Surprisingly, they cope with loud volume levels without the sound becoming overly abrasive. CDs sound full of life and the tiny satellites create a wide soundstage. Paul Oakenfolds Starry Eyed Surprise is punchy and detailed if a bit brash at times.

Each component in the system is geared to handle the high-resolution capabilities of the SACD format and creates a natural and enveloping sound, particularly with classical material. Unsurprisingly, SACD material sounds stunning. This Sony system has all the right elements and makes a great-looking and performing home cinema system. Okay, you cant buy it as a complete package off the shelf, but simply pop into you local stockist, select the components, and build it for yourself. You wont be disappointed.

Further Info

Call or visit www.sony.co.uk

Good Points

A separates systems that works well together with great looks and performance. SACD capabilities are a real boon for anyone into hi-fi

Bad Points

Can sound a bit harsh at times. Receiver is bulky

Ratings

Style Ease of use Features Picture Sound Value Overall

Chapter 40 Time 1:52:21

Explosions fill the eyes and the ears and the fallout realistically rains down on you from above

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Sony SA-VE535HS 380
Satellites and subwoofer are as capable as they are breathtakingly stylish