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Panasonic SA-BX500: Review

Posted to Audio Components 2009-06-24


Panasonic SA-BX500: Review
The Panasonic SA-BX500 AV Receiver is Panasonic's latest 7.1 channel surround receiver and AV control unit. It features Blu-ray compatibility, full Dolby format support, and a host of I/O options for total control of your multimedia components. The unit's specifications are excellent, with a frequency response of 4Hz-40KHz, total harmonic distortion of 0.7%, and 130 watts of output power to all 7 channels.

The receiver also features a subwoofer output, automatic speaker setup, a universal remote control and VIERA Link for control of other Panasonic VIERA Link devices with the same remote. There's an AM/FM tuner built-in, three HDMI inputs and one output, and component video, S-video, and digital audio/video inputs and outputs. There is also an optional iPod dock available for the unit.


Rating:  4.6 out of 5

Value

The SA-BX500 is an excellent value for the street price. It has plenty of output power to drive quality speakers, and the noise and frequency response specs are excellent. It has enough I/O options for you to take control of all the latest multimedia devices plus retain compatibility with your existing devices. The included universal remote performs well, and the VIERA link capability is convenient if you have other Panasonic equipment.

Features

The SA-BX500 has most of the features you'll need in a HD-compatible surround receiver. The numerous I/O options allow you to control a wide variety of home theater equipment, and the unit produces a true home theater experience. A multimedia card reader would have been nice, and maybe network connectivity, but if you don't require these features it makes an excellent centerpiece for you surround system.

Summary

If you're looking for an AV receiver and control center for you home theater system, the SA-BX500 makes an excellent choice. Price vs. features is excellent when compared to the competition, and Panasonic is gaining a good reputation in the AV world. Sound and video quality are both excellent, and the unit has enough power to drive some very capable speakers. All-in-all an excellent offering from Panasonic.

Pros

  • Blu-ray compatible 7.1 channel surround receiver
  • Complete AV control center
  • 130 watts/channel output power
  • VIERA Link compatible
  • Optional iPod dock

Cons

  • There are no cons for this product

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