Sony STR-ZA3100ES 7.2 Channel 4K AV Receiver Review
The Sony ES STR-ZA3100ES is a solid choice for folks who love their home theater setup. If you love getting fully immersed in movies and need lots of ways to connect your devices, then this receiver is perfect for you. It's made for medium to big homes, turning your space into an exciting movie theater.
Our Verdict
The STR-ZA3100ES is quite impressive with its design and all the different ways you can connect stuff to it. It's perfect for all kinds of devices. When it comes to performance, this thing delivers some seriously awesome content with its huge sound and crystal-clear audio. But now and then, there are these little glitches that pop up and remind us that technology isn't perfect. It's no biggie though, just a minor hiccup in an otherwise amazing experience. The STR-ZA3100ES is a solid pick if you want to step up your home entertainment game.
PROS
- Immersive cinematic experience
- Versatile connectivity
- Dolby Atmos & DTS:X
- Sleek design blends seamlessly
- Sturdy build exudes
- Crystal-clear dialogue.
- Abundant HDMI ports
- Extracts nuanced details,
CONS
- Occasional glitches disrupt
- The design lacks standout flair
- Learning curve for extensive customization options.
GENERAL
| Receiver Type | A/V Receiver |
|---|---|
| Number Of Channel | 7.2 Channel |
| Number Channel Processing | 7 |
| Audio Feature | Dolby Atmos , DTS:X |
| Video Feature | HDR10 , Dolby Vision , 4K Passthrough |
| Watts Per Channel | 80 W |
| Zones | 2 |
| Radio | Internet Radio |
| Amplifier | Class A/B |
CONNECTIVITY
| Ethernet | Yes |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes |
| USB | Yes |
| RCA LIne Input: | 4 |
| RCA LIne Output: | 0 |
| RCA Pre-Outs: | 2 |
| XLR Line Inputs: | 0 |
| XLR Pre-Outs: | 0 |
| Phono Input: | Yes |
| Optical Inputs: | 2 |
| Optical Output: | 1 |
| Coaxial Inputs: | 1 |
| Multi-Channel Input: | No |
| Headphone Out: | No |
| HDMI Inputs: | 6 |
| HDMI Outputs: | 2 |
| 8K Inputs: | 0 |
| Composite Video Input | 2 |
| Composite Video Output: | 1 |
| Component Video Input: | 2 |
| Component Video Output: | 0 |
| Front A/V Inputs: | 1 |
| Speaker A/B: | No |
AUDIO FEATURES:
| Maximum Channel Processing | 9ch + Phantom 2ch |
|---|---|
| Dolby Atmos | up to 7.1.2 or 5.1.4 plus 2 phantom rear surround channels |
| Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization | N/A |
| Dolby Atmos Music | N/A |
| Dolby TrueHD | Yes |
| Dolby Digital Plus | Yes |
| Dolby Surround Upmixer | Yes |
| Dolby Pro Logic | Yes |
| Dolby Digital EX | Yes |
| Surround EX | Yes |
| DTS:X | up to 7.1.2 or 5.1.4 plus 2 phantom rear surround channels |
| DTS Neural:X | N/A |
| DTS Virtual:X | N/A |
| DTS Neo | N/A |
| DTS-HD Master Audio | Yes |
| DTS-HD High Resolution Audio | Yes |
| DTS 96/24 | Yes |
| DTS Express | Yes |
| DTS-ES | Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1 |
| IMAX Enhanced | N/A |
| PCM | 2-ch/Multi-ch Input |
| Music Playback via USB | No |
| High Resolution Music Playback via USB and/or Network | No |
| High Resolution Audio Formats via USB | WAV, FLAC, ALAC, DSD |
| Gapless Playback | Yes |
| DSD via HDMI | 2-ch/Multi-ch Input |
| DSD via USB | No |
| DSD to PCM Converter | N/A |
| USB DAC | N/A |
| Jitter Reduction | Yes |
| DTS Dialog Control | N/A |
| Dialog Enhancement | Yes |
| Dialog Level Adjustment | Yes |
| Dialog Normalization | Yes |
| Dialogue Lift | N/A |
| Compressed Music Enhancer | Yes |
| High-resolution Music Enhancer | N/A |
| Audyssey Dynamic EQ | N/A |
| Audyssey Dynamic Volume | N/A |
| Audyssey LFC | N/A |
| Audyssey Sub EQ HT | N/A |
| Audyssey DSX | N/A |
| Direct Mode | Yes |
| Pure Direct Mode | Yes |
| Independent Subwoofer Outputs | Yes |
| Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. | D.C.A.C. EX |
| Audyssey App Support | N/A |
| Bass Sync | N/A |
| Optimized Bass Redirection | N/A |
VIDEO FEATURES:
| HDMI Version | 2.0b |
|---|---|
| Enhanced ARC | N/A |
| HDCP Version | 2.3 |
| HDR10+ | N/A |
| Dynamic HDR | N/A |
| Dolby Vision | Yes |
| HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) | Yes |
| QMS (Quick Media Switching) | N/A |
| 3-D Ready | Yes |
| Video Signal Passthrough | Yes |
| Video Signal Upscaling | N/A |
| Analog To HDMI Upconversion | Yes |
| Component Video Upscaling | N/A |
| isf Certified Calibration Control | N/A |
AMPLIFIERS
| Channels | 7 |
|---|---|
| Front Wide Channel Support | N/A |
| Current Feedback Topology | Yes |
| Discrete Amplification | Yes |
| HDAM | Yes |
| THX™ Certification | N/A |
| Continuous 6 Ω Rated | Yes |
| Certified 4 Ω Performance | Yes |
| Bi-amp Capability | Yes |
GAMING FEATURES
| Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) | N/A |
|---|---|
| Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) | N/A |
| Quick Frame Transport (QFT) | N/A |
ZONES
| Zones | 2 |
|---|---|
| Powered Zones | 2 |
| Zone 2 Outs | Yes |
| Zone 3 Outs | No |
| RS-232C Interface | Yes |
| +12V Trigger Output | Yes |
RADIO
| Analog Tuner | Yes |
|---|---|
| Digital Radio | N/A |
| Internet Radio | Yes |
| Pandora | N/A |
| Spotify | N/A |
| Tidal | N/A |
| Deezer | N/A |
| SiriusXM Internet Radio | N/A |
| Napster | N/A |
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
| On-Screen Display | Yes |
|---|---|
| GUI Languages | 3 |
| Web Browser Control | N/A |
| IP Control for CI | Yes |
| Control4 SDDP | N/A |
| PreAmp Mode | N/A |
| Display | Yes |
| Remote Controller | RM-AAU217 |
| Remote Control In/Out | 1 / 2 |
| LCD Display | Yes |
| Detachable Power Cord | Yes |
| Setup Assistant | Yes |
POWER
| Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 | 100 W + 100 W |
|---|---|
| Rated Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, IEC) | 110 W |
| Dynamic Power per Channel (3 Ω, Front) | 180 W |
| Dynamic Power per Channel (4 Ω, Front) | 160 W |
| Dynamic Power per Channel (8 Ω, Front) | 100 W |
| Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 | 90 W + 90 W |
| Maximum Effective Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA) | 150 W |
| Power Supply | AC 120 V, 60 Hz |
| Toroidal Transformer | N/A |
| Power Consumption | 240 W |
| No Sound Power | 45 W |
| Standby Power | 0.4 W |
BUILD
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 16.93 x 6.85 x 16.14 inches |
|---|---|
| Weight | 28.9 lbs |
| Chassis | Frame and beam design with embossed corners to support the power transformer and heat sink1 |
| Front Panel | Aluminum front panel with smooth volume control and large display |
| Speaker Terminals | 9 |
| Large Speaker Terminals | 9 |
| Color-Coded Speaker Terminals | N/A |
| Transparent High-Grade Speaker Terminals | N/A |
| High Grade Audio Components | Yes |
| ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function | Yes |
| Auto Power off | N/A |
| Warranty | 5 years |
SPECIFICATIONS
| THD digital | 0.09% |
|---|---|
| Analog Distortion | 0.05% |
| Phono Distortion | 0.03% |
| Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line) | 1 V / 50 kohms |
| Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM) | 2.5 mV / 50 kohms |
| Rated Lineout Level and Impedance | 1 V / 1 kohms |
| Rated Output digital | 2 V / 75 ohms |
| S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A) | 105 dB |
| S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A) | 88 dB |
| S/N Ratio (digital) | 100 dB |
| Phono RIAA Deviation | ±0.5 dB |
| Frequency Response (Analog In) | 10 Hz - 100 kHz, +0.5/-2 dB |
| DSD Sampling Rates via HDMI | 2.8 MHz, 5.6 MHz |
| DSD Sampling Rates via USB | 2.8 MHz, 5.6 MHz |
| Video Input Sensitivity/Output Level and Impedance | 1 Vp-p, 75 ohms1 |
| Video Frequency Response | 5 Hz - 10 MHz, 0/-3 dB |
| Ethernet Standard | IEEE 802.3 10BASE-T/IEEE 802.3u 100BASE-TX1 |
| Wi-Fi Standard | IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n |
| Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency | 2.4 GHz / 5 GHz |
| Bluetooth Version | 4.1 |
| Bluetooth Frequency | 2.4 GHz |
| USB Terminal | Type A (for connecting USB devices) |
| FM Frequency | 87.5 MHz - 107.9 MHz |
| FM 50 dB Quiet Sensitivity (IHF, 1 kHz, 100% MOD.) | Mono: 1.5 μV, Stereo: 25 μV |
| FM S/N Ratio | Mono: 76 dB, Stereo: 70 dB |
| FM Harmonic Distortion (IHF, 1 kHz) | Mono: 0.3%, Stereo: 0.5% |
| AM Effective Sensitivity | 18 μV |
| AM Frequency | 530 kHz - 1,710 kHz |
Design
The design of the STR-ZA3100ES by Sony is a perfect combination of elegance and practicality. The unit has a simple and elegant design that fits well with your home decor. Although it doesn't quite achieve the level of a gallery-worthy artwork, it also manages to avoid being visually unappealing. The front panel is organized sensibly, with a display that is not attention-grabbing and a few buttons that serve important functions. The construction has a durable feel, showing its high-quality classification. Some people may desire a more unique design that is noticeable and makes a bold statement.
Connectivity
In terms of connectivity, this receiver really stands out. It is similar to the versatile tool of AV receivers. You can connect a wide range of inputs and outputs, allowing you to connect almost anything you want. The STR-ZA3100ES can handle a wide range of devices, from older ones with composite connections to the latest 4K HDR sources. The STR-ZA3100ES can handle both vintage gadgets with composite connections and the latest 4K HDR sources. The abundance of HDMI ports makes it easy to connect devices like gaming consoles, streaming devices, and more. The number of choices could be too much for people looking for a more straightforward arrangement.
Performance
Now, let's focus on the main point: performance. The Sony ES STR-ZA3100ES demonstrates its capabilities and generally meets expectations. When you start watching your preferred action film, the power of the receiver becomes apparent. The soundstage is broad; the dialogue is clear, and the explosions have a strong impact. It feels as if you are right in the midst of the action.
The experience is further enhanced by the support of Dolby Atmos and DTS: X. For movie nights, it is a game-changer when sound is coming from all sides. The sound quality is excellent, and the receiver can capture even the smallest nuances in your audio tracks.
However, there is one important thing to note: Despite its impressive performance capabilities, a few users have mentioned experiencing occasional glitches. Sometimes, when there's a hiccup in the audio sync or a brief video stutter, it serves as a reminder that technology isn't always flawless. It's a small issue, but important to mention.
Where and When to Use
If you enjoy home theater, this receiver will become your closest companion. It is designed specifically for providing a captivating movie experience within the convenience of your own residence. Movie nights will not be the same anymore. However, if you are only seeking a basic audio solution for your kitchen radio, this could be excessive.
Compatible Devices
Sony has done a satisfactory job in terms of compatibility. It works with many different devices, including older ones with analog outputs and newer 4K devices. It is like a bridge connecting different generations, allowing your older DVD player to peacefully coexist with your new Ultra HD Blu-ray player.
Ease of Use
Let's discuss the level of user-friendliness. The STR-ZA3100ES does have a bit of a learning curve. The settings and customization choices can be quite overwhelming, particularly if you're not technologically inclined. Using the menus may take some experimentation, and the manual becomes very helpful. However, after you have mastered it, the choices available to you are quite remarkable.
Cost
Now, let's talk about the expense. The Sony ES STR-ZA3100ES is considered a high-end product, which is evident from its expensive cost. If you are seeking a low-cost alternative, this is not the one. However, if you are willing to invest in a receiver that provides excellent performance and can adapt to the changing entertainment industry, the expense may be warranted.
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