0704wv15 Sony STR-DB790

5/17/04

10:41 AM

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FACT FILE

q 6 x 100W amplification q Dolby Digital/EX,
DTS/ES/ES Discrete, Dolby Pro-Logic II, DTS Neo:6, DTS 96/24 Sony Digital Cinema Sound EX proprietary surround sound UK Tuned design RDS-equipped AM/FM tuner with 30 presets Analogue pureness control

Sony STR-DB790

onys large silver STR-DB790 receiver looks practically identical to Sony AV receivers of half a decade (or more) ago. This is obviously a style that suits as the companys models are always at, or near, the top of the sales figures. Part of the reason for that success is the coveted little red UK Sound Tuned badge next to the power button. Sonys best British ears lend considerable input to the design of key products in the range, ensuring that the sound is more acceptable to Blightys home cinema enthusiasts. Even before British ears got to play with the STR-DB790, the design had undergone radical changes. Instead of placing the whole receiver circuit on the same PCB, Sony has used a series of daughter boards connected to the main motherboard, in a manner very similar to that used in any modern home computer. This helps to halve the signal path length, compared to its DB780 predecessor. It also sports a new grounding circuit known as X Ground, which Sony claims improves channel separation and helps speed up the performance of the amplifier to stereo amplifier levels. The STR-DB790 also has an analogue pureness control, that powers down the digital and video stages for the best possible audio. The STR-DB790 features Dolby Digital/EX, DTS/ES/ES Discrete, DTS 96/24, Dolby Pro-Logic II and DTS Neo:6 (although both Pro-Logic IIx and Neo:6 Enhanced are missing). It also features an EX version of Sonys Digital Cinema Sound, which takes the soundfield of key studios and halls, and attempts to replicate them in the home.

AV receiver 300

The downside to this is that the STR-DB790 needs very careful speaker matching to prevent brightness. Anything with a metal dome tweeter, or that has a generally bright and fast character in and of itself, will end up sounding almost aggressive when partnered with the STR-DB790. However, with the right speakers, the STR-DB790 is vivid, focused and capable of filling a room with good clean and dynamic sound. With films like Master and Commander, it copes with the big explosion scenes just as well as the endless diatribes about 18th century navigation techniques. Even the analogue pureness option works well, giving a noticeable improvement on the sound of stereo CD. There is a distinct character to the sound of the STR-DB790 a brisk and exciting one that will suit many. Add to that the good range of features and excellent connectivity and it would be the one to go for. Only the lack of onscreen menus holds it back Alan Sircom
FEATURES UK tuned 6 x 100W (RMS) amplifier power; 96kHz/24bit D/A converter; Dolby Digital/EX, DTS/ES/ES Discrete, Dolby Pro-Logic II, DTS Neo:6, DTS 96/24, Digital Cinema Sound EX; Analogue Pureness mode; assignable coaxial digital input; X-Ground architecture; Mother/daughter board construction; remote control with preset manufacturer codes; dimensions: 430(w) x 161(h) x 400(d)mm; weight 14.5kg SOCKETS Front: headphone socket; optical digital audio; stereo phono audio; composite video phono; S-video mini-DIN inputs Rear: 3 optical digital inputs; 1 coaxial input; 1 optical digital output; 2 component video phono inputs; 1 component video output; 1 MM phono turntable stereo input (+earth terminal); 1 audio only stereo input; 1 audio only stereo tape input/output; 5.1 channel direct input; 2 audio, component video, S-video inputs; 2 audio inputs/outputs; 2 composite video inputs/outputs; 1 S-video input/output; 1 composite video/Svideo output; AM/FM aerial inputs; subwoofer output; eight channel speaker outputs (six pairs main system, one speaker B front only) CONTACT www.sony.co.uk TEST DATA Manufacturers output: 90W per channel (20Hz-20kHz, 8, 0.09% THD) Power output @ 1kHz: 65W (8, 0.1% THD); 65W (4, 0.1% THD) Fidelity firewall: 95W @ 0.05% THD (8) Distortion @ 50W: 0.004% (8, 1kHz) Frequency response: 20Hz-20kHz 0.05dB For a full explanation of test data, see page 132

A full-sized case also affords the Sony design a full set of sockets and connectors, so in place of the Scart sockets and the like in the slimmer receivers, this has all the inputs and outputs you could wish for, including component video. It also entails a bigger power amplifier stage and this delivers 6 x 100W RMS. Although these video inputs can be switched alongside corresponding audio inputs, Sony believes onscreen displays undermine the sound quality. Consequently, set-up is all handled through the front panel display. This isnt as hard as it first seems but comes as a shock to those
A brisk and exciting one that will suit many
more accustomed to navigating GUI or menu systems onscreen and does slow down the install process. It also means that those who like to tinker with their cinema modes have to peer at the display to see what they are tinkering with. Fortunately, both the pre-programmed remote and the aluminium front panel of the receiver itself are well laid out and easy to navigate.

WHATS GOOD

Very fast, breezy sound; well-designed layout; excellent for audio-only fans

WHATS BAD

Careful system matching needed; system set-up; too big

PERFORMANCE

Sony does seem to have a point with this X Ground design stuff. The STR-DB790 does seem able to cope with transient sounds even better and faster than previous Sony models. And thats saying something.
SOUND FEATURES EASE OF USE VALUE

77777 77777

OVERALL VERDICT
A big, powerful design but the lack of onscreen menus weighs heavily against it
July 2004 s WHAT VIDEO AND WIDESCREEN TV 103

0402HCC07 Amp Group Test P

21/11/03

12:20 PM

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GroupTest

DENON AVR-1804 400

JVC RS-8032VSX 400

MARANTZ SR-4400 350

12:21 PM

Page 115

Tried&Tested

ONKYO TX-SR501 300

SONY STR-DB790 300

Loud and clear

This super-test auditions five major brand name home cinema receivers costing between 300-400. Power outputs vary dramatically between brands but each can drive a 6.1 channel array, using Dolby Digital EX, DTS ES or DTS Neo:6 audio processing. For many enthusiasts, a separates based system using one of these at its centre is the best option when it comes to power and performance - but not all budget-priced amps and receivers are created equal. Brands have to tread a fine line between features, build quality amplifier components. What we're looking for here then is the inspired compromise, amplifiers that sound as good as possible without sacrificing too many important features. One particularly revealing test figure worth looking out for in the following reviews is the measured power output with all channels driven. Never
ALVIN GOLD TACKLES THE CREAM OF THE LATEST CROP OF ENTRY-LEVEL HOME CINEMA RECEIVERS. THEYRE ALL MODESTLY PRICED, BUT WHICH HAS THE BIGGEST PERSONALITY?
quoted by manufacturers, this figure is generated when we put the amplifier section under extreme strain. In the real world, youll probably never hear one of these models with all its channels being driven to such an excess (imagine the noise!) but it does provide a startling insight into the potential of the individual unit.

Page 116

Smart and distinctly Denon in style, the AVR-1804 looks the part

DENON AVR-1804

HAYDEN LABORATORIES LTD N 400 (APPROX) N N www.denon.co.uk N OVERALL RATING ####
Low to mid-priced receiver models cant rest on their laurels for long, which is a measure of how popular and competitive the genre has become. The AVR-1804 replaces Denons popular 1803, which was begat by the AVR-1802, and so on, each model adding to the feature count, with little change in price. As with the AVR-1803, the AVR-1804s basic rollcall includes 6.1 channel dialogue channel. Again, this is borrowed from THX post processing. Additions to the old model include more power, up from 80 to 90W, thanks to changes made to the main transformer and other power supply components. Video upsampling ensures that all composite and video sources are available at the S-Video monitor output, which, for most people, will mean a single wire connection to the TV or projector. The DSP in charge of surround sound processing has also been upgraded, from a 24 bit chip to a SHARC Melody 32 bit DSP, which is impressive at this price. Another change for the better is the setup menus, which are now shown on the TV display. The design of the menu system is straightforward and intuitive, and also fairly comprehensive, to the extent of including input assignments for the component video and the digital inputs and tuner programming. A thoughtful touch is that the level set-up includes automatic and manual speaker cycling. Last but not least, the remote control is an object lesson in good design, with excellent control grouping, as well as use of different button shapes and colour to help guide your fingers to the target. Convenience features include a front-mounted S-video, Phono AV and digital optical input.
when driving five speakers together, especially with 4 loads. Our tests confirm that when all five channels are driven, which for most users will be the bulk of the time, the actual power output plummets to just 35W into 8. This is a clear sign of current starvation, as well as placing the claims for increased power from this revised model into perspective. Of course there are implications on test, the sound becoming strained under heavy, sustained drive. For this reason if no other, the AVR-1804 is best adapted to relatively small sub/sat systems, where the subwoofer takes on much of the load, and it is best to avoid low sensitivity speakers (less than 88dB/W/meter, say) especially in large rooms. This amp clearly puts home cinema before music, even when using multichannel SACD or DVD-Audio. But in fairness, this is true of every model in this group.

Excellent

Average

Lab Report

Manufacturers Rated Output 5 x 90W into 8 Measured power @ 1kHz 2ch driven: 110W into 8 5ch driven: 35W into 8 Fidelity firewall @ 1kHz/ 2ch 105W:into 8 (0.05%THD) Distortion @ 1kHz 0.002%THD @ 50W (8) Frequency response 20Hz-20kHz +/- 0.02 dB
operation (Dolby Digital EX/DTS ES) using
one or two (mono) surround rear speakers. A range of bass/LFE crossover frequencies are available, but nothing below 80Hz, which is in keeping with
basic THX bass management. You should take this crossover point as your basic setting, going higher if your main speakers are incapable of mid-bass delivery. Cinema EQ is available to reduce high frequency emphasis on the

Conclusion

The low power supply shouldnt in itself put potential buyers off. In truth, and when not pushed too hard, the Denon is a classy performer with film soundtracks, with excellent image steering, and a strong sense of soundstage presence. There is some upper midband emphasis, making the sound a little busier than some, and the bass can sound detached and heavy-handed if it is not adjusted with some sensitivity. Generally, however, the Denon produced some of the most involving and attractive results during the test programme. The sound stage is enveloping, but has a light, agile touch, speech intelligibility is good and special effects and mood music are handled with precision and range.

FEATURES

Specifications: 6.1 channel receiver; power output 90W/channel (single channel or pairs) 8, 20Hz-20kHz; 0.08& THD; Tuner FM-RDS/MW - 40 random presets; On-screen menu system; LFE crossover frequencies 80Hz, 100Hz, 120Hz; Cinema EQ; All video standards converted to S-Video; Bass & treble controls, tone defeat; Available in black or silver finishes; Glow-key coded system remote control Connections: Analogue audio inputs - 2 (inc phono MM), 1x tape & 1x 6 channel audio; 4x AV inputs, inc 2 tape circuits and one input on front panel with composite & S-Video; 2x component video inputs & one out; digital inputs: 1x coaxial, 3x optical, all assignable; 1x optical digital output; FM/AM aerial inputs; 8 pairs loudspeaker outputs, including dual mono outputs for surround back; All 4mm binding posts except second front output pair; Headphone socket Surround formats supported: Dolby Surround, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital EX 6.1, Dolby Pro Logic II, DTS, DTS-ES 6.1 Matrix & Discrete 6.1, DTS Neo:6; DSP modes Rock, Jazz, Video game, Matrix, Virtual, with adjustable parameters Dimensions: 434(w) x 171(h) x 417(d)mm Weight: 11.9kg

Performance

Power output is slightly ahead of Denons specifications when driving two channels, but collapses precipitously
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FEBRUARY

12:22 PM

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Chunky, muscle-amp armour disguises a multichannel wimp

JVC RS-8032VSX

N 400 (APPROX) N 3282 N www.jvc-europe.com N OVERALL RATING ###
JVCs latest 6.1-channel receiver, by the companys own reckoning, provides easier to use features and smoother, more stylish looks than last years models. Coming to the range fresh, this newcomer looks like another conventional, but well turned out receiver. It is flexible and well equipped, with a thoughtfully designed control system. But lets start at the beginning. The RS-8032VSX receiver caters for when using 5.1 channel sources. The RS-8032V is equipped with a high speed (150MIPS) Motorola DSPbit digital processor, which performs all the Dolby and DTS decoding, as well as some of the number-crunching required for Digital Acoustics Processing soundfield simulation technology, jointly developed by JVC with one of Japans leading concert hall designers and contractors. Other gizmos include a five-band equaliser for the centre and main front speakers, which is near useless, as always. A digital processing bypass is available and the receiver ships with a system remote controller with an LCD inset that shows the selected program source. Curiously, JVC has broken Dolbys own rules by including Dolby Pro Logic and PLII in the same product, but if they dont mind, why should we?
as the power demands increase, a loss of dynamics and impact causes some edginess to creep in. In our tests, actual power output when all five channels are driven, drops to a paltry 20W per channel. Although the same failing is apparent with film soundtracks, power demands tend to hit hard and then release faster than with some of the (orchestral) material used for the music tests. These placed less strain on the power supplies, and the results tended to be somewhat more palatable, on the whole. But the real world power of the products rivals is quickly evident. The analogue direct bypass is startlingly effective. Switching on the DSP circuits flattens the sound like a pancake and takes much of the spatial interest out of the story. The amplifier decodes Dolby and DTS well enough, but the flat, grainy sound of the digital stages provides a backdrop for anything other than standard PCM audio from CD, SACD or DVD-Audio when played in bypass (analogue) mode.
Dolby Digital EX and DTS ES extended
surround formats. Unlike some, it will drive two centre rear speakers, albeit in mono from the rear surround pair. If your front room is such that you need to sit close to the centre of the back wall, a pair of rear surround speakers in the corners provides much less unwanted localisation than a single centre rear speaker. A Virtual 6.1 mode conjures up a feed for the surround rear speakers

Manufacturers Rated Output 6x 100W into 8 Measured power @ 1kHz 2ch driven: 100W into 8 5ch driven: 20W into 8 Fidelity firewall @ 1kHz/ 2ch 95W:into 8 (0.05%THD) Distortion @ 1kHz 0.003%THD @ 50W (8) Frequency response 20Hz-20kHz +/- 0.15 dB
Specifications: 6.1 channel receiver; FM-RDS/MW preset tuner with 30 FM presets & 15
MW presets; Power output 100W/channel RMS, 1kHz, 8, 0.8% THD; LFE cutoff frequencies 80Hz, 100Hz, 120Hz, 150Hz; display brightness, sleep timer; system remote control with TV volume/channel punch through; system LCD remote control Connections: Analogue audio inputs: phono MM, 2x tape & 6 channel in; AV 3 line (inc one on front) & 2x tape with composite & S-Video; six channel all channels preamp level output (uses 2 reassigned stereo inputs); 2x component video in, 1x out; 4x optical (inc 1 on front panel) & 1x coaxial digital inputs, assignable; 1x optical digital out; nine pairs 4mm speaker outputs, inc surround rear pair & second front output pair; FM/AM aerial inputs; Headphone socket; Compulink 4 system remote control in/out sockets Surround formats supported: Dolby Digital 5.1/EX 6.1, DTS 5.1/ES 6.1, DTS Neo:6. Dolby Pro Logic II; DTS 96:24; DSP modes include Hall 1&2, Live club, Dance club, Pavilion, Theatre 1&2, All channels (stereo source) & 3D headphone mode Dimensions: 435(w) x 157(h) x 425(d)mm Weight: 12.2kg
Setting-up is best described as nonintuitive. Out of the box, the set-up procedure, which uses an odd assortment of front panel and remote control buttons and the front panel display, proved obscure, and help from JVC had to be parachuted in. The amp was easy to get along with in day-to-day use, though. Using the JVC to drive a full 5.1 channel system, especially from a music source, where attention is not diverted by the picture, the amplifier section clearly sags under the load. Sound quality is warm and richly detailed, but
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The extruded aluminium fascia of the SR4400 gives it a sophisticated look

MARANTZ SR4400

N 350 (APPROX) N N www.marantz.com N OVERALL RATING ###
This entry-level receivers clean extruded aluminium fascia and general sense of good build are immediately eyecatching, though we exempt the rather shabby looking remote control. There are some impressive headline features, including support for 6.1 channel operation from Dolby Digital EX, DTS Neo:6 6.1 and DTS EX. Barely a year or so ago, EX/ES support was simply unheard of at this the price. A simple setup feature in addition to the full-on variety is available, but dont be tempted is not included, just as it is beginning to become relevant to UK buyers with the introduction of 625 progressive outputs on selected DVD players. LFE/bass management filtering is limited to 100Hz, which will work with virtually any speaker systems, but will be less than optimum for most of them. All channels are available at line as well as speaker level, including the single surround back channel; there is no doubling up at line level, which is the accommodation that some models provide. In many rooms, 6.1 channels are neither practical nor effective, and 7.1 is a much better option to avoid excessive localisation and mirroring of the centre front channel at the rear. But of course youre free to fall back to 5.1, and this is arguably the best option in most rooms for all the models in our group.

conventional 80Hz crossover wasnt offered. Theres nothing wrong with the SR4400s image steering. Dolby and DTS codecs put on an engaging, threedimensional show, with plenty of subtlety and characterful reproduction of indoor acoustics and outdoor environmental sounds. The Marantz is not the most transparent amp around, however, and the mid treble region tends to glare, an effect exaggerated during volume peaks. I found myself naturally easing back on the oomph during quiet passages in very dramatic soundtracks to avoid this part of the performance envelope, which provides a comfort factor that effectively sets the volume ceiling.
Manufacturers Rated Output 6x 90W into 8 Measured power @ 1kHz 2ch driven: 110W into 8 5ch driven: 85W into 8 Fidelity firewall @ 1kHz/ 2ch 105W:into 8 (0.05%THD) Distortion @ 1kHz 0.005%THD @ 50W (8) Frequency response 20Hz-20kHz +/- 0.14 dB
to cut corners this way. The simple
In many ways the SR4400 is a disappointment, because it comes so close to being a killer product. It easily out muscles the competition, with a meaningful 85W output when five channels are driven. But the ill-judged bass management, and the lack of component connections, make this one a very considered purchase.
version often leaves the system working below its potential. On the hardware side, 24 bit 96kHz DACs are used throughout, along with a Cyrus Logic 24 bit CS49326, which is a similar digital engine to the Onkyo TX-SR501. Inevitably, the low price means omissions. Although the amp is S-Video compatible, only two of the video inputs are so equipped, and component video
This model performs adequately, but is cruelly hamstrung by the limited bass management options. 100Hz didnt suit the Mission m53s used as the main speakers in this test, and meant that the matching Mission subwoofer was operating up to frequencies where its presence was felt, if not directly heard, as a heavy, uneven and slightly overhung bass. Smaller sub/sat systems (but perhaps not the miniature variety, which may need an even higher bass management setting) will work much better with the Marantzs native settings. But it eludes me why a more
Specifications: 6.1 channel receiver; power output 80W/channel, 8 20Hz-20kHz,
0.08& THD; Tuner FM-RDS/MW - 30 random presets; simple & full setup options; source direct bypasses tone controls & bass management; LFE crossover frequency 100Hz; available in black or silver finishes; system remote control Connections: Analogue audio inputs - 1x line, 2x tape & 1x six-channel audio; 3x AV inputs, inc two tape circuits with composite & S-Video (except one tape); Digital inputs 2 - coaxial, 2x optical, 1x optical digital output 1x coaxial digital out; FM/AM aerial inputs; six pairs 4mm binding post speaker outputs; headphone socket Surround formats supported: Dolby Digital 5.1, Dolby Digital EX 6.1, Dolby Pro Logic II, DTS, DTS-ES 6.1 DTS Neo:6; Circle Surround II; Virtual surround, Multichannel stereo, DSP surround movie, Hall, Stadium, Matrix Dimensions: 440(w) x 164(h) x 365(d)mm Weight: 12.5kg

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The TX-SR501 offers more in the way of on-fascia logos than the competition

ONKYO TX-SR501

300 (APPROX) N N N www.onkyo.net N OVERALL RATING ###
in their right mind would use a budget receiver like this with a top-drawer speaker package. So this is precisely what we did, purely in the interests of science, of course. Using a nominally fullsize Infinity Kappa system in a largish room, the Onkyo passed muster in terms of driving ability, though the system was clearly limited, as well as being a little untidy and shallow when stretched. There were clear level-related changes in sound quality, the amplifier flattening out and loosing depth and vitality as the volume was raised. In real world use, the Onkyo is clearly best adapted for use with quality compact sub/sat systems, where higher crossover settings ensure that the subwoofer shoulders some of the load. The various surround sound options work rather well, with clean steering and a strong sense of envelopment, even when the soundtrack becomes very energetic. The Onkyo is more at home in multichannel mode than in stereo, but taken as an overall package, this model clearly lives up to, and a little beyond its budget remit. As well as being unfeasibly well endowed at under 300, it also sounds pretty good for what is, after all, an entry-level receiver with aspirations above its level.
The figure of merit that most clearly sums up this budget receiver from Onkyo is 299. This is the most youre likely be asked to pay for a 6.1 channel AV receiver with all (or most) of the trimmings. The ST-SR501 is an attractive, well-built model boasting a quality aluminium front panel and an uncomplicated, but thoroughly serviceable remote control. The full complement of mainstream Dolby and DTS 5.1 and 6.1 channels
the high current power supply and Wide Range Amplifier Technology (WRAT) topology is a quite modest circuit rated at 80W per channel, which slumps to just 35W when all channels are driven. The Onkyo will drive six channels in total for Dolby EX and DTS ES, which appears to be unique at the price. Also, the power supply reservoir has a relatively large capacity, which helps with short term demands, though there are tradeoffs relating to speaker control. The power amps are discrete, rather than the cheap and nasty integrated power modules used on some budget models. The supporting features include a straightforward, but slightly limited setup procedure that uses the receivers own display and which offers flexible bass management. Youll also find front panel inputs for S-video and Phono AV, and two component video sockets. One notable omission is a digital output. The TX-SR501 is no powerhouse, and consequently, can easily be overwhelmed by large, high grade speakers, but no-one

modes is on tap, along with Dolby Pro
Logic II and DTS Neo:6 and an assortment of nine DSP and multichannel matrix modes. Theyre generated by a competent digital engine consisting of a 24 bit Crystal CS49326 DSP, which drives AKM AK4586 24bit 96kHz DACs on each channel. The amplifier section is impressive enough too, but not quite as awesome as the specifications imply. The reality of
Manufacturers Rated Output 6x 65W into 8 Measured power @ 1kHz 2ch driven: 80W into 8 5ch driven: 35W into 8 Fidelity firewall @ 1kHz/ 2ch 75W:into 8 (0.05%THD) Distortion @ 1kHz 0.01%THD @ 50W (8) Frequency response 20Hz-20kHz +/- 0.05 dB
Specifications: 6.1 channel receiver; FM-RDS/MW preset tuner with 30 presets; power
output 65W/channel RMS, 8; 20Hz 20kHz <0.08% THD FTC; LFE cutoff frequencies 60Hz, 80Hz, 100Hz, 120Hz, 150Hz; cinema filter; display brightness; sleep timer; system remote control Connections: Inputs: 2x line (one on front); 2x tape with composite & S-Video; audio only: 1x line & 1x tape; 1x 5.1 channel audio in; subwoofer out; 2x component video in. 2x optical & 1x coaxial digital inputs; six pairs 4mm speaker outputs; plus second front output for second room; RI (Remote Interactive) connector for system remote control with other Onkyo components; FM/AM aerial inputs Surround formats supported: Dolby Digital 5.1/EX 6.1; DTS 5.1/ES 6.1 (Discrete & Matrix); DTS Neo:6 (Cinema, Music). Dolby Pro Logic II (Movies & Music). DSP & matrix surround modes include studio-mix; TV logic; all channels stereo; unplugged; orchestra Dimensions:435(w) x 150(h) x 376(d)mm Weight: 9.8kg
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The affordable STR-DB790 has been fine-tuned for UK cinephiles

SONY STR-DB790

N 300 (APPROX) N N www.sony.co.uk N OVERALL RATING ####
While the main Sony separates range moves to digital amplification technology, the modest DB790 is left as Sonys solitary, analogue offering. Although nominally a replacement for the STR-DB780, this is a substantially new model under the skin. Sound quality has received particular attention and a small red badge on the front panel attests to the fact that the STR-DB790 has been specially tuned for UK users. Component switching is available for two sources, and the now obligatory 5.1 channel input and the Sony will drive a 6.1 channel speaker array. There are no preamplifier level outputs other than one for a subwoofer. While the DB790 stands alone as an analogue throwback, theres no shortage of refinements and niceties under the bonnet. Internally, the 280VA transformer of the old models has been replaced by a much beefier 400VA part with an improved reservoir capacitors bank. The Sony features a grounding system (X Ground), which amounts to individual earthing of pre and power amp circuits, with any noise degradation (an acknowledged trade-off) countered by shorter signal paths allowed by the Sony's mother/daughter board configuration. Rise time has been improved to 500mS, a four-fold improvement on the old model. Other new features include an Audio Pureness Control, which can shut down power supplies for video and digital when they're not required. Most of the display can also be turned off. The list of sound processing modes betters some models costing twice as much and includes Dolby and DTS extended EX and ES modes, and DTS 96:24. A basic range of DSP modes are also on tap. Operationally, the Sony is idiosyncratic to put it mildly, but the only lasting user interface irritations are the quick timeout on some functions, and the display, which is concise to the point

of opacity. SF Link, DEC PCM or PWRS, anyone? Nope, thought not.
The Sony turns out to be significantly more powerful than most of the others in its class, especially when driving all speakers simultaneously. In full multichannel mode, the DB790 still offers 65W per channel. Only the rival Marantz SR4400 has similar muscle. One of its secrets is the rear panel switch that optimises power output for 4 and 8 loads. In practice, with most speakers, the amp sounds best set to 4. The Sony really does sound much more in charge of events than others at the price, playing busy soundtracks at high volume, but sound quality becomes rather edgy and frazzled when extended, for example in some of the high octane scenes from LOTR: The Two Towers. Surround sound processing works well all round, with plenty of envelopment and precise image placement, with good results from Dolby Digital and better still from DTS. This is a lively and open sounding receiver, but the Sony is also very impressive with music, where the sound blossomed. Interestingly, I found the sound field more subtle and involving when the video and digital circuitry was switched off, which in effect means when playing CDs or multichannel SACD both audio only sources.
Manufacturers Rated Output 6x 90W into 8 Measured power @ 1kHz 2ch driven: 96W into 8 5ch driven: 65W into 8 Fidelity firewall @ 1kHz/ 2ch 95W:into 8 (0.05%THD) Distortion @ 1kHz 0.004%THD @ 50W (8) Frequency response 20Hz-20kHz +/- 0.05 dB

requirements.

The basic feature set is more or less as you'd expect for a budget receiver, and includes a modest, but adequate, range of inputs. One of the digital inputs can be assigned to CD instead of the default DVD input, in which case the video circuits are automatically switched off. One of the video inputs and an optical digital input are available on the front panel, which will please camcorder
Specifications: 6.1 channel receiver; FM-RDS/MW preset tuner with 30 presets; power output 90W/channel (each) 8; 20Hz - 20kHz; 0.09% THD; 32 bit sound processing DSP; LFE cutoff frequencies 60Hz; 100Hz; 150Hz; display brightness; handset with TV control; auto or manual surround formatting; bass & treble controls Connections: Inputs: analogue audio: 2x line & 1x tape 1x 6 channel; AV: 3x line (inc 1 on front) with composite & S-Video, 2x tape composite, one with S-Video. 2x component in. 1x out; subwoofer out. Digital: 4x optical in, 1x out. 1x coaxial digital in (assignable DVD or CD) 8 pairs 4mm speaker outputs inc second front main out; FM/AM aerial inputs Surround formats supported: Dolby Digital 5.1/EX 6.1; DTS 5.1/ES 6.1; Dolby Pro Logic II; DTS Neo:6 (music & movies); DTS 96:24; Cinema Studio EX; Virtual Multi Dimension; Hall, Jazz club; Concert; Headphone Theatre (uses DCS processing); Two channels plus sub mode available Dimensions: 430(w) x 161(h) x 400(d)mm Weight: 14.5kg

The modest price and traditional technology has led Sony to give the DB790 a low profile but in our opinion its actually a breakout star in the range. Ridiculously cheap, with plenty of realworld muscle and good connectivity, make this the budget amp to beat.
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E EE U FR LOG TA CA

RANKING

1 Sony STR-DBDenon AVR-1804 3. Onkyo TX-SR501 4. JVC RS-8032VSX 5. Marantz SR4400

CONCLUSION

Budget amplifiers and receivers arent always chosen for their sound quality: many retailers concentrate on spec lists, rather than audio performance. In this test, however, weve looked for quality rather than width. The Marantz SR4440 has the most obvious drawbacks, such as the limited bass management. Sound quality is also level sensitive, but it is well priced. The JVC RS-8032VSX Is well conceived, with a good display and major controls, but again there are sonic issues. The digital circuits are less than transparent, and multichannel power output is lacking. The second complaint also applies to the Onkyo TX-SR501, but that amp is surprisingly clean and transparent for a 300 machine. The Denon AVR-1804, at approximately 400, probably offers the best overall set of promises. Again, the power amplifiers are less than impressive when all channels are driven together, but the sound is clean and transparent under all conditions, and image steering is of a high standard, with surprisingly little of the grey, rather mechanical overlay youll hear from most receivers at the price The Sony STR-DB790 is ultimately the most impressive amp in this round-up. The 300 price ticket belies genuine muscle, the connectivity is first-class and the sound quality is engaging and enjoyable. It really is fantastic value. I
scintillating image both smooth and
utterly three dimensional

October 2003

Ratings
Denon AVR-Highs: Good to excellent performance; transparent sound; great steering Lows: Power amplifiers slumps when pushed hard in multichannel trim Sound Build Features Overall

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JVC RS-8032VSX 300 Highs: Good display and controls; strong range of major and minor features Lows: Power output sags under load; digital stages lack transparency Sound Build Features Overall

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Marantz SRHighs: Well presented receiver; loads of available power Lows: Inflexible bass management; glare at high volume, no component inputs Sound Build Features Overall

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Onkyo TX-SRHighs: Cheap is easy to do, but the TX-SR501 is something more: it is also brilliant value Lows: Modest power output; less convincing in stereo Sound Build Features Overall

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Sony STR-DB790 Highs: Big multichannel sound delivery, great with movies and music Lows: Idiosyncratic controls; messy remote handset and front panel Sound Build Features Overall

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