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Sony STR-DG920: Review

Posted to Audio Components 2009-04-24

If you are looking to upgrade your current receiver to one that can support more of the new Dolby formats with the ability to handle your vinyl music collection, then you may want to check out the Sony STR-DG920. Offering users high end performance at a mid range price, the STR-DG920 allows you the ability to own high end performance without putting a Grand Canyon size dent in your wallet.

While the STR-DG920 may not fall into the group of high end receivers, it still packs a lot of punch for its budget friendly price. Measuring approximately 16.9-" x 13.9-" x 6.2-" and weighing 23 lbs 6 oz, the STR-DG920 is a 7.1 channel receiver that offers users 110 watts of power per channel. With the combination of Linear PCM support and 4 HDMI inputs that support up to 1080p, 2 Coaxial audio digital inputs, 3 component video inputs, 1 component video output, 5 composite video inputs, 3 composite video outputs, 3 HD Component video inputs, 1 HD component video output, 4 Optical audio inputs, 8 RCA Audio inputs, 3 RCA Audio outputs, a subwoofer output, a headphone jack, and phonograph connections which offers users a wide range of connectivity options that can support all the high quality video the equipment that your home theater can provide. It also offers access to the popular Dolby audio formats without breaking the bank. The STR-DG920 supports Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital EX, Dolby Pro Logic, Dolby Pro Logic II, Dolby Pro Logic IIX, DTS 96/24, DTS, DTS Neo:6, DTS-ES as well as Digital Cinema Sound Technology.

Rating:

3.8 out of 5

Features

The STR-DG920 offers users a wide array of quality audio features all in an affordable package. With Sony's built in Digital Media Port you have the ability to control and power a wide array of compatible devices. This port can accept PC client ready devices, Bluetooth devices, as well as Audio Docking Stations that are compatible with Network Walkmans and iPods. Each accessory is sold separately so you will need to purchase the compatible accessory in order to use this functionality. The STR-DG920 also offers uses that can't seem to part with their record collection the ability to connect their record player to the receiver, allowing them the opportunity to own new technology with the ability to still experience their favorite, non-digital, music.

Those looking for even more music functionality will be delighted to know that the STR-DG920 offers the ability to play XM Radio stations via your receiver. In order to use this functionality, you will need to have an XM subscription and purchase the Connect-and-Play accessory for this functionality to become usable.

The STR-DG920 is also optimized for Blu-Ray disks and other HD sources. With assistance of its built in video processor this receiver has the ability to up-convert standard video formats to near 1080p HD quality.

Sony also offers users the ease of calibration for optimal sound quality for your room layout with the assistance of its Digital Cinema Auto Calibration function. Just plug in the included microphone and place it in your listening position and the system does all the rest. Speaker placement, distance and delay are all calibrated for you, guaranteeing the best sound regardless of your room type. Just make sure the microphone is plugged in fully as the plug is somewhat tight and an incomplete connection can result in erroneous error codes.

Performance

The STR-DG920 performs quite well for a mid-range receiver. It handles up-conversion quite well with very little if any picture noise, flickering, or jaggies that may be found on other receivers in this price range. Audio performance does quite well for a mid-range receiver at normal volume levels, but turn it up to mind numbing volumes and performance may sound a little strained in comparison to some of its competitors.

Where this receiver does lack is in its ability to offer an output for a second zone. Many of its competitors are currently offering either a powered or pre-amp output for a second zone which offers listening capabilities in another room. If your main goal is a quality home theater receiver and don't have a need for second zone functionality, then this feature many not even be missed.

Summary

In conclusion, the Sony STR-DG920 offers users the performance of a high end receiver without putting a boulder size hole in your wallet. With a variety of ports and the ability to up-convert to near HD quality this receiver packs a lot of functionality into a handy package. If you are looking for a quality performance without breaking the bank then the Sony STR-DG920 is the way to go.

Pros

4 HDMI Inputs
Digital Cinema Auto Calibration
XM Radio capabilities
Walkman/iPod connectivity with optional dock
Up-convert capabilities

Cons

There are no cons for this product