Sony STRDH590 5.2 Channel Surround Sound Home Theater Receiver Review
The Sony STR-DH590 may be exactly right for you if you value crisp, high-quality sound without wanting to break the bank or become mired in a maze of complicated configurations. It claims to fill your room with sound as large as your movie fantasies and fits snugly in small living areas where every inch matters. Perfect for the movie buff or minimalist audiophile wishing to improve their home theatre experience without going too far from home.
Our Verdict
The Sony STR-DH590 is, in the end, a monument to functionality and simplicity. Performance is where this simple, no-frills receiver shines. Its simplicity of usage and good sound quality more than make up for its lack of an army of inputs or the bells and whistles of Wi-Fi connectivity. This is the kind of gadget that won't make you fumble with the settings or scratch your head at the price. For anyone who likes their home audio straightforward but gratifying, this is a good option.
PROS
- Clear, powerful sound
- Legacy device compatibility
- Pronounced stereo separation
- Bluetooth connectivity
- 4K HDR support
- Compact design
- Affordable
- Easy setup
CONS
- Overly complicated menus
- Mediocre manual
- Poor FM reception
GENERAL
| Receiver Type | A/V Receiver |
|---|---|
| Number Of Channel | 5.2 Channel |
| Number Channel Processing | 5 |
| Audio Feature | |
| Video Feature | HDR10 , Dolby Vision , 4K Passthrough |
| Watts Per Channel | 145 W |
| Zones | 1 |
| Radio | Internet Radio |
| Amplifier | Class A/B |
CONNECTIVITY
| Ethernet | N/A |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | N/A |
| Bluetooth | Yes |
| USB | Yes |
| RCA LIne Input: | No |
| RCA LIne Output: | No |
| RCA Pre-Outs: | No |
| XLR Line Inputs: | No |
| XLR Pre-Outs: | No |
| Phono Input: | N/A |
| Optical Inputs: | Yes |
| Optical Output: | No |
| Coaxial Inputs: | Yes |
| Multi-Channel Input: | No |
| Headphone Out: | Yes |
| HDMI Inputs: | Yes |
| HDMI Outputs: | Yes |
| 8K Inputs: | No |
| Composite Video Input | No |
| Composite Video Output: | No |
| Component Video Input: | No |
| Component Video Output: | No |
| Front A/V Inputs: | No |
| Speaker A/B: | No |
AUDIO FEATURES:
| Maximum Channel Processing | 5.2 |
|---|---|
| Dolby Atmos | No |
| Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization | N/A |
| Dolby Atmos Music | N/A |
| Dolby TrueHD | Yes |
| Dolby Digital Plus | Yes |
| Dolby Surround Upmixer | N/A |
| Dolby Pro Logic | N/A |
| Dolby Digital EX | N/A |
| Surround EX | N/A |
| DTS:X | No |
| 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 | N/A |
| DTS Express | N/A |
| DTS-ES | No |
| IMAX Enhanced | N/A |
| PCM | Yes |
| Music Playback via USB | No |
| High Resolution Music Playback via USB and/or Network | No |
| High Resolution Audio Formats via USB | No |
| Gapless Playback | N/A |
| DSD via HDMI | No |
| DSD via USB | No |
| DSD to PCM Converter | N/A |
| USB DAC | N/A |
| Jitter Reduction | N/A |
| DTS Dialog Control | N/A |
| Dialog Enhancement | N/A |
| Dialog Level Adjustment | N/A |
| Dialog Normalization | N/A |
| Dialogue Lift | N/A |
| Compressed Music Enhancer | No |
| 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 | N/A |
| Pure Direct Mode | N/A |
| Independent Subwoofer Outputs | N/A |
| Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. | No |
| Audyssey App Support | N/A |
| Bass Sync | N/A |
| Optimized Bass Redirection | N/A |
VIDEO FEATURES:
| HDMI Version | 2.0 |
|---|---|
| Enhanced ARC | N/A |
| HDCP Version | No |
| 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 | N/A |
| Component Video Upscaling | N/A |
| isf Certified Calibration Control | N/A |
AMPLIFIERS
| Channels | 5.2 |
|---|---|
| Front Wide Channel Support | N/A |
| Current Feedback Topology | N/A |
| Discrete Amplification | Yes |
| HDAM | N/A |
| THX™ Certification | N/A |
| Continuous 6 Ω Rated | N/A |
| Certified 4 Ω Performance | N/A |
| Bi-amp Capability | No |
GAMING FEATURES
| Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) | N/A |
|---|---|
| Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) | N/A |
| Quick Frame Transport (QFT) | N/A |
ZONES
| Zones | 1 |
|---|---|
| Powered Zones | No |
| Zone 2 Outs | No |
| Zone 3 Outs | No |
| RS-232C Interface | N/A |
| +12V Trigger Output | No |
RADIO
| Analog Tuner | FM |
|---|---|
| Digital Radio | N/A |
| Internet Radio | No |
| 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 | No |
| Web Browser Control | N/A |
| IP Control for CI | N/A |
| Control4 SDDP | N/A |
| PreAmp Mode | N/A |
| Display | Yes |
| Remote Controller | Yes |
| Remote Control In/Out | 1/1 |
| LCD Display | N/A |
| Detachable Power Cord | N/A |
| Setup Assistant | Yes |
POWER
| Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 | 145 W |
|---|---|
| Rated Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, IEC) | Not Specified |
| Dynamic Power per Channel (3 Ω, Front) | Not Specified |
| Dynamic Power per Channel (4 Ω, Front) | Not Specified |
| Dynamic Power per Channel (8 Ω, Front) | Not Specified |
| Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 | Not Specified |
| Maximum Effective Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA) | Not Specified |
| Power Supply | AC 120V 60Hz |
| Toroidal Transformer | N/A |
| Power Consumption | Not Specified |
| No Sound Power | Not Specified |
| Standby Power | Not Specified |
BUILD
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 430 x 133 x 297 mm |
|---|---|
| Weight | 7.1 kg |
| Chassis | Yes |
| Front Panel | Black Finish |
| Speaker Terminals | Yes |
| Large Speaker Terminals | No |
| Color-Coded Speaker Terminals | Yes |
| Transparent High-Grade Speaker Terminals | N/A |
| High Grade Audio Components | Yes |
| ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function | N/A |
| Auto Power off | Yes |
| Warranty | Depends |
SPECIFICATIONS
| THD digital | 0.09% |
|---|---|
| Analog Distortion | No |
| Phono Distortion | No |
| Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line) | 500 mV/50 kilohms |
| Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM) | No |
| Rated Lineout Level and Impedance | No |
| Rated Output digital | No |
| S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A) | 105 dB |
| S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A) | No |
| S/N Ratio (digital) | No |
| Phono RIAA Deviation | No |
| Frequency Response (Analog In) | 10 Hz – 100 kHz (+0.5/–2 dB with sound field and equalizer bypassed) |
| DSD Sampling Rates via HDMI | No |
| DSD Sampling Rates via USB | No |
| Video Input Sensitivity/Output Level and Impedance | No |
| Video Frequency Response | No |
| Ethernet Standard | No |
| Wi-Fi Standard | No |
| Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency | No |
| Bluetooth Version | 4.2 |
| Bluetooth Frequency | Not specified |
| USB Terminal | No |
| FM Frequency | 87.5 MHz – 108.0 MHz |
| FM 50 dB Quiet Sensitivity (IHF, 1 kHz, 100% MOD.) | No |
| FM S/N Ratio | No |
| FM Harmonic Distortion (IHF, 1 kHz) | No |
| AM Effective Sensitivity | No |
| AM Frequency | No |
Design
The Sony STR-DH590 is a quite small AV receiver, measuring just over 5 inches tall and having a stylish and narrow appearance. Its fake brushed metal front appeals to a lot of people because of its contemporary and stylish look.
Some consumers have complained that the screen menus are obnoxious and appear automatically every time the device is turned on.
Connectivity
Connections on the Sony STR-DH590 combine certain conventional restrictions with contemporary convenience. On the plus side, the Bluetooth functionality of the receiver is exceptional. It enables simple streaming from tablets and smartphones, so playing your preferred podcasts or playlists straight via your home theatre system is a snap. One evidence of the receiver's user-friendly design is how easily it connects to and remembers devices. Those who prefer having parties or just listening to music without having to deal with cables will find this wireless simplicity to be a blessing.
It is not, however, all plain sailing. The lack of Wi-Fi access prevents consumers from streaming music straight from the internet unless they utilize a Bluetooth-enabled gadget. For many who like the enormous libraries of online streaming services, this can be a major disadvantage. Furthermore, the lack of network capabilities also means that you will not be able to take advantage of future firmware upgrades that could eventually improve the receiver.
One more advantage is that using the numerous inputs to connect different devices is quite easy. Regardless of the device—a TV, Blu-ray player, or gaming console—users frequently commend the simple process. Simplifying the administration of your home entertainment system, the receiver serves as a central hub for all of your devices.
The receiver could utilize more input choices, particularly for people who have several devices, according to some users. For tech aficionados with large setups, this restriction may make it inconvenient to switch between sources by having to swap wires.
The STR-DH590's connectivity merits in practical settings are seen in its ease of assembling different home theatre components. It is very much valued in configurations where the main audio source is Bluetooth streaming. On the other hand, its shortcomings become clear in more intricate configurations that need for several wired connections or internet streaming, which could call for extra equipment or regular cable management.
Performance
Enhancing the audio experience for a range of media is the goal of the reasonably priced and adaptable Sony STR-DH590 AV receiver. Performance-wise, the STR-DH590 excels at producing a strong, clear sound that can turn any living space into a personal theatre.
Clear handling of high frequencies by the receiver highlights the minute nuances in vocal-heavy and acoustic music. Watching a dialogue-driven drama or listening to a podcast, the higher range articulation makes sure you catch every word and note.
For styles like rock or pop, the well-balanced mids offer a warm, organic sound. For TV shows when clear conversation is essential, this balance makes sure that vocals stand out without being swamped by the instrumentation.
Strong without being overbearing, the lows provide a depth that is felt in dramatic movie sequences or when listening to bass-heavy music genres like electronic dance or hip-hop. Its excellent construction and engineering are demonstrated by the fact that the STR-DH590 keeps this richness without distorting the sound.
It is admirable how the receiver performed in several musical genres. The natural soundstage the STR-DH590 produces gives jazz and classical music lovers an immersive listening experience by allowing each instrument to be heard clearly. Movie fans will value how this receiver manages special effects and soundtracks; it provides a cinematic feel that improves the visual experience.
Talk show and podcast listeners value spoken word clarity, which the STR-DH590 delivers. The speaker seems to be in the room with you because of the excellent voice reproduction.
Where and When to Use
Small to medium-sized rooms where a complete 5.1-channel setup is sought without the complexity of more sophisticated systems are perfect for the STR-DH590. Movie evenings and informal music listening are ideal occasions for it.
Compatible Devices
A flexible AV receiver, the Sony STR-DH590 works well with many different devices. Your whole collection of devices can find a common link through this receiver because it is compatible with anything from the newest 4K TVs and Blu-ray players to older models.
Ease of Use
Easy of Use Often included in more expensive versions, the calibration microphone makes setup easier by adjusting the sound to the acoustics of your environment. Another feature that makes the receiver easy to use is the user-friendly remote control. It is important to note, although, that some users may find it cumbersome to use several remotes for various tasks, which could result in a disorganized and unclear control system.
Cost
When it comes to cost, the STR-DH590 strikes a balance between affordability and performance. It’s an entry-level receiver that doesn’t skimp on quality, offering a cost-effective solution for those looking to enhance their home theater experience without a hefty investment. The receiver’s price point makes it accessible to a broader audience, ensuring that high-quality audio isn’t just a luxury for the few.
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