electronicsme - Electronics / Audio Components made easy

Print this page

Sony STR-DA2400ES: Review

Posted to Audio Components 2010-03-19

Bravia sync capability is included with the Sony STR-DA2400ES, allowing easy integration into a home theater that may already possess a number of components that are Bravia compatible. A let down of this unit is the fact that it only includes an icon driven GUI, unlike the higher models in the range that incorporate the XROSS media bar design into their user interface.

Like the rest of the ES (extended standard) range of A/V receivers from Sony, the STR-DA2400ES is capable of HDMI input, with four ports available. With 7.1 channel output, audio formats can be inputted in a number of industry standard formats, such as DTS -HD and Dolby TrueHD. The unit is also capable of satellite radio receiving in either the XM or Sirius satellite signals. Also supported is the x.v. color and deep color video signals, to allow for maximum video quality no matter the incoming signals.

Rating:

3.4 out of 5

Value

Substantial value for money is available in this A/V receiver, which makes it an attractive purchase for those of us who are looking for a new 7.1 channel amplifier to construct a home theater around. The unit comes equipped with satellite radio receiving capabilities and the added benefit of Bravia sync for home theaters will quickly allow this model to be integrated into your home theater, removing the headache that connecting your amplifier can sometimes cause in a new setup.

Ergonomics

A plus for the 2400ES is that in some countries it has been made available in silver, meaning you can add a different visual dimension to your home theater instead of the standard black that seems to be the color of choice for most components. The icon driven GUI is not as handy to navigate or easy to understand as the XROSS interface that has been installed into later models of the ES amplifiers that Sony has produced, so there is some reason to wait for the prices of other models to come down before you invest.

Summary

The DA2400ES does offer relatively good value for money for a 100w per channel home amplifier system. The user interface is still relatively easy to navigate, but is marked down for not incorporating the XROSS interface that is now included in later models. Additional HDMI inputs may be needed depending on the amount of HDMI components you intend to have in your home theater.

Pros

Value package
4 HDMI inputs
7.1 Channel output
Satellite Radio Ready

Cons

No XROSS user interface

Recommended accessory:

Monster Cable MC 500HD-2M : HDMI 500hd 2 Meter Standard Speed HDMI Cable