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Sony STR-DA4400ES: Review

Posted to Audio Components 2009-11-27

The Sony STR-DA4400ES is a 120 watt home theater receiver that has 6 HDMI inputs (and one output). This model is the top end of Sony's ES A/V receivers and it is compatible with full 1080p HD video signals, as well as being ready to go for Bravia sync out of the box to ensure easy integration with your Bravia LCD TV or corresponding Bravia home theater components.

Sound decoding is available in multiple formats on the 4400ES, with Linear PCM, DD+, Dolby TrueHD, THX Surround and DTS HD all being supported by the unit. The receiver is also capable of relaying video signals that are recorded in the x.v. color format, assisting in the display of a wider range of colors during your playback. Power consumption of this model is a little hefty at 480w during full operation and it does come with a 5 year limit parts and labor warranty for peace of mind.

Rating:

3.8 out of 5

Features

The 4400ES is Satellite radio ready, with receivers built in for both XM and Sirius Satellite radio transmissions, extending its use beyond being a simple home theater amplifier unit. The 6 HDMI inputs make the model a good choice for those looking to upgrade there existing setup to one that is capable of handling all the bells and whistles that come along with HD output. The 120W x 7 (8 Ohm 20-20kHz 0.09%THD) 7.1 channel output also means that your future sound requirements are taken care of. With the Faroudja DCDi Cinema 1080p upscaling technology, multi-room ready and the ability to decode latest audio formats (including Linear PCM, DD+, Dolby TrueHD, dts-HD), the STR-DA4400ES is ready for your needs.

Ergonomics

Though the STR-DA4400ES is relatively bulky, with its dimensions coming in at 16 inch (h), 6 ¾ inches (w) and almost 17 inches (d). There is a lot to like about the intelligent user interface that has been included. Based around the XROSS media bar which lays out the menu icons horizontally across the screen, placing appropriate selections under each category, Sony has incorporated technology that has received praise in other areas of their business into this unit for optimum acceptance by consumers. The 4400ES also weighs a relatively heavy 33 lbs, so you are going to struggle to move the amp around once you have it in place. Overall, like other ES products, the 4400 has a cleaner look than many of the competition.

Summary

Primarily, you want to ensure that your A/V receiver is capable of decoding the formats that are going to come from all your other inputs, so the 4400ES should be sufficient for most new HD home theater setups. Better value for money is available elsewhere, though there may not be as many features that are included in the 4400ES.

Pros

High End, High Price
7.1 Channels (120W x 7, 8 Ohm 20-20kHz 0.09%THD)
Six HDMI inputs (one output)
Intelligent User Interface

Cons

Bulky Amplifier