Did you know over 70% of people think sound quality is key in a home theater? The Sony STR-AN1000 aims to give you an amazing listening experience. It has advanced audio tech and supports the latest surround formats. This Sony audio system review will cover its specs, performance, and features. It’s a great choice for those wanting immersive audio, competing with Denon and Yamaha.
Discover what makes the Sony STR-AN1000 stand out. From Dolby Atmos support to easy setup, it’s a top pick.
Key Takeaways
- The Sony STR-AN1000 features 7.2 channels and supports various surround sound formats.
- It includes advanced technologies such as 360 Spatial Sound Mapping for enhanced audio experiences.
- The receiver supports up to 8K video passthrough, making it future-proof for premium resolutions.
- It offers extensive connectivity options, including multiple HDMI inputs and support for popular streaming services.
- Setup is straightforward with automatic calibration features to optimize sound for your space.
Overview of the Sony STR-AN1000
The Sony STR-AN1000 has entered the AV receiver market with a bang. It appeals to both movie fans and music lovers. This 7.2-channel home theater receiver comes with top-notch features for an amazing audio experience. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, making sound more immersive.
This receiver falls into the mainstream category, facing competition from Onkyo, Denon, and Yamaha. It’s priced between $800 and $900, making it a great value. It can power up to 100 watts per channel at 6 ohms, and about 85 to 90 watts at 8 ohms. This ensures powerful and detailed sound.
The Sony STR-AN1000 has six HDMI inputs, two for 8K video. It supports Dolby Vision and HDR10, keeping up with the latest tech. It also connects to streaming services and has AirPlay and Chromecast, making it a modern audio system.
In our Sony audio system review, the 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology is a highlight. It lets you place virtual speakers anywhere, improving your listening experience. The remote control is small but convenient, making it easy to use.
Key Specifications of the Sony STR-AN1000
The Sony STR-AN1000 is designed to take your home theater to the next level. It has a 7.2-channel receiver that supports advanced audio and video formats. This makes it perfect for both movie lovers and gamers.
Audio Channels and Formats
The Sony STR-AN1000 is all about high-quality sound. It supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Sony’s 360 Reality Audio. This means you get an immersive sound experience.
It can deliver about 85 watts per channel at 6 ohms. This helps create rich audio profiles that make your viewing experience better. It also works with many audio formats like Dolby Digital, DTS, and PCM.
Video Capabilities
The Sony STR-AN1000 shines in video performance. It supports up to 8K pass-through for the latest high-resolution content. Plus, 4K 120Hz support is great for gamers who want smooth motion.
It has six HDMI inputs, including two for 8K content, and two outputs. This future-proofs your home theater setup. It also supports HDR formats like Dolby Vision and HDR10, ensuring vivid colors and contrasts.
Design and Build Quality
The Sony STR-AN1000 design is a perfect mix of modern looks and practical use. It stands out for anyone wanting to improve their home theater. Its glossy black finish and sleek design fit well in any room.
It’s small, measuring 16.9 x 13 x 6.1 inches, and light, weighing about 20 pounds. This makes it easy to set up and blend into your space.
Physical Appearance
The STR-AN1000 looks sleek and has an easy-to-use interface. It has physical buttons and dials for easy navigation. This makes adjusting settings simple and enhances your viewing experience.
Ease of Setup
Setting up the Sony STR-AN1000 is easy and straightforward. The interface guides you through connections and sound adjustments. It even comes with a calibration mic to help fine-tune the sound.
This feature is great for both beginners and experts. It shows the STR-AN1000 is a versatile addition to your home entertainment system.
Features of the Sony STR-AN1000
The Sony STR-AN1000 offers many impressive features to boost your home theater experience. It has a unique 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology. This tech creates a more immersive audio experience, going beyond regular sound.
This technology makes it feel like you’re surrounded by more speakers, even with just a basic setup. It’s a game-changer for how you enjoy sound.
360 Spatial Sound Mapping Technology
360 Spatial Sound Mapping changes how you listen to music and movies. It places sound sources all around the room, creating a surround sound effect. This makes the sound feel deeper and more real.
Whether you’re watching a movie, listening to music, or playing games, the sound quality is unmatched. It takes your entertainment to a whole new level.
Support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
The STR-AN1000 supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, making it perfect for those who love great sound. These formats create a three-dimensional sound experience. It’s like the sound is moving around you.
This is even more impressive with the receiver’s 7.2-channel setup. It supports both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. Every sound detail comes alive, making your experience even more immersive.
Feature | Description |
---|---|
360 Spatial Sound Mapping | Creates an expansive sound signature, simulating additional speakers for a more immersive experience. |
Dolby Atmos Support | Delivers multi-dimensional sound, making movie experiences more realistic. |
DTS:X Compatibility | Allows for dynamic audio that moves in three-dimensional space. |
Audio Channels | 7.2 configuration supports complete audio delivery for both formats. |
Connectivity Options
The Sony STR-AN1000 is great for connecting to your home theater. It has six HDMI inputs and two outputs. This lets you connect devices like gaming consoles and Blu-ray players.
But, only two HDMI inputs support 4K/120Hz. This might be a problem for gamers who use many devices at once.
HDMI Inputs and Outputs
The STR-AN1000 has many inputs for different devices. With six HDMI inputs, you can connect a lot of devices. The two outputs let you send video to different screens.
It also supports HDMI 2.1 features. This means better gaming with Variable Refresh Rate and Auto Low Latency Mode.
Wireless Streaming Features
The STR-AN1000 also has great wireless features. It has Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Chromecast, Apple AirPlay, and Spotify Connect. This lets you stream music without cables.
You can also connect it to Sonos for a unified audio experience. It supports up to two wireless subwoofers for better sound.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
HDMI Inputs | 6 (2 support 4K/120Hz) |
HDMI Outputs | 2 |
Bluetooth Support | Yes |
Wi-Fi Capability | Yes |
Streaming Services | Spotify, Chromecast, Apple AirPlay |
Multi-Room Support | Works with Sonos |
Wireless Subwoofer Connections | Up to 2 |
Performance Analysis
The Sony STR-AN1000 delivers top-notch audio performance with various media formats. It handles music and movies with great skill. Users will love the clear sound and detailed soundstage.
For example, Arctic Monkeys’ “Do I Wanna Know?” shows off the receiver’s ability to capture every detail. This makes your home theater sound even better.
Listening Tests with Various Media
The STR-AN1000 stands out in different music and movie genres. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for a full, immersive sound. The automatic room calibration ensures the best sound for your space.
Gaming Experience
Gamers will also be impressed by the STR-AN1000. It works well with consoles like the Xbox Series X. It supports 4K passthrough and 8K upscaling for smooth gaming.
With clear audio and smooth video, it offers an amazing gaming experience. This makes it a top choice for both movies and games.
For more tips on setting up your gaming console, check out this guide here. It has practical advice to boost your Sony STR-AN1000 experience.
Comparative Analysis with Competitors
Looking at the Sony STR-AN1000, it’s key to see how it stacks up in the AV receiver competition. A review of its rivals shows both its strengths and weaknesses. This helps you decide which one is best for you. We’ll compare it with the Yamaha RX-V6A and the Onkyo TX-NR6100.
Against Yamaha RX-V6A
In the Sony vs Yamaha showdown, the STR-AN1000 and RX-V6A are neck and neck in sound quality. Both are great for top-notch audio setups. The STR-AN1000 has 100W power per channel with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. But the RX-V6A has unique features and more connectivity options.
These differences might appeal to different users. For example, those who want a variety of sound profiles might prefer the RX-V6A.
Against Onkyo TX-NR6100
In the Onkyo TX-NR6100 comparison, the STR-AN1000 has a lot to offer but costs more. The Onkyo model has 120W power per channel, which is great for audiophiles. It also has a dedicated phono input for vinyl lovers.
Setup and Calibration
Setting up your Sony STR-AN1000 is key to enjoying its best sound. Knowing how to calibrate your AV receiver can make your listening experience better. The STR-AN1000 has easy setup instructions for both the first time and later adjustments.
Initial Calibration Process
The first setup uses the D.C.A.C. IX system with a special microphone. It checks where your speakers are and how big your room is. Then, it tweaks settings like volume, timing, and sound balance for a great sound right away.
Manual vs. Automatic Calibration
If you like to tweak things yourself, the STR-AN1000 lets you do manual calibration. This way, you can adjust the sound to fit your taste and room perfectly. But, if you’re new to this, the automatic setup is easy and quick. It makes sure you get great sound without fuss.
Calibration Method | Control Level | Setup Complexity | Time Required |
---|---|---|---|
Automatic Calibration | Low | Easy | 15-30 minutes |
Manual Calibration | High | Moderate to Complex | Variable |
Choosing the right calibration method lets you get the best sound from your STR-AN1000. It’s all about making it fit your home’s unique sound environment.
Remote Control and User Interface
The Sony STR-AN1000 has a compact remote control with key buttons for easy use. The Sony remote design makes it easy to carry around. But, it might not fit well for those who prefer bigger remotes.
The on-screen interface is clear and easy to use. Yet, it could look better. A sleek design would make the user experience even better. It’s important to have clear menus and options to use all the receiver’s features.
The STR-AN1000 also supports mobile apps for control. The app lets you control many functions, but you can’t turn the unit off remotely. This might be a bit of a drawback. But, if you have smart home tech, a universal remote can help. The Logitech Harmony Elite and Sofabaton X1 are great options for more control over your home theater.
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Remote Design | Compact; essential buttons for operation |
On-Screen Interface | Functional but lacks visual polish |
Mobile App Control | Control available, but no standby mode |
Universal Remote Options | Logitech Harmony Elite, Sofabaton X1 |
Sony STR-AN1000 Review: Pros and Cons
Looking into the Sony STR-AN1000 shows its good and bad sides. Knowing these helps you decide if it’s right for your home theater.
Advantages of the STR-AN1000
The Sony STR-AN1000 has many great features. These make it a top choice for those who love good sound.
- Impressive audio processing capabilities: It supports many audio formats, like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, for a better sound experience.
- 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology: This tech makes your home theater feel more real, pulling you into the action.
- Seamless streaming integration: It connects easily with different platforms, making it simple to find and play your favorite shows and movies.
- Excellent video features: With HDMI 2.1 and 8K passthrough, it meets high standards for video quality.
Disadvantages of the STR-AN1000
Even with its strengths, the STR-AN1000 has some downsides. These are things to think about before buying.
- Perceived lower power output: It has a 100W output, which might not be enough for very large rooms.
- Limited HDMI input capabilities: With only six HDMI inputs, it can be hard to connect many devices, like those for 4K/120Hz.
- Lack of parametric EQ features: This might affect the sound quality, making the bass not as good as some listeners would like.
Compatibility and Integration
The Sony STR-AN1000 has great speaker compatibility for different audio setups. It works well with Sonos systems, giving users the chance for Sonos integration. Even though you need another device for full integration, this flexibility lets you place wireless speakers anywhere in your home theater.
Work with Sonos and Other Speakers
Connecting the STR-AN1000 with Sonos opens up new audio experiences. You can easily customize your audio setup by connecting with various wireless speakers. The STR-AN1000 also supports the SA-RS3S and SA-RS5 speakers, and subwoofers like the SA-SW3 and SA-SW5. This lets you tailor your sound to your liking.
Bravia TV Integration
The STR-AN1000 shines in Sony Bravia compatibility with features like Acoustic Center Sync. This feature makes your compatible Bravia TV act as an extra center channel. It greatly improves dialogue clarity, making it perfect for movie lovers who want a better viewing experience.
Audio Quality Insights
The Sony STR-AN1000 stands out for its top-notch audio quality. It offers an immersive sound experience. Users love its wide soundstage, making movies and music more engaging.
It provides clear and detailed audio. You can hear every note and dialogue clearly.
Soundstage and Detail
The STR-AN1000’s soundstage is realistic and immersive. It supports a 5.1.2 Dolby Atmos setup. This lets sound move in three dimensions.
You can hear sounds from all around. Whether it’s background rustle or music notes, it’s all clear.
Dynamic Range and Clarity
The STR-AN1000 excels in dynamic sound performance. It handles both quiet and loud moments well. Audio clarity is never compromised.
It has a low total harmonic distortion of 0.09%. Even at high volumes, sounds stay clear. It’s perfect for movies and music.
Feature | Specifications |
---|---|
Configuration | 7.2 channels |
Output Power | 100 watts per channel (6 ohms) |
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) | 0.09% |
Frequency Range | 20 Hz – 20 kHz |
Supported Audio Codecs | MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC, MPEG-H, AIFF, DSD |
Calibration Technology | Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX (DCAC IX) |
Streaming and Multi-Room Audio Support
The Sony STR-AN1000 is great for streaming and multi-room audio. It works with many streaming services. This makes your music listening better.
You can connect to Spotify Connect, Apple AirPlay, Chromecast Built-In, and Bluetooth. This ensures you can easily stream your favorite music.
Supported Streaming Services
The STR-AN1000 supports many compatible streaming services. Here are some key ones:
- Spotify Connect
- Apple AirPlay
- Chromecast Built-In
- Bluetooth
- Wi-Fi Streaming
Multi-Room Features
The STR-AN1000 lets you play audio in different rooms. It works with Sony’s SA-RS3S and SA-RS5 speakers wirelessly. This makes your home audio system flexible.
It’s perfect for home audio systems. You can set up a custom listening experience. With Zone 2 & Zone 3, you can play music in multiple rooms at once.
Price and Value Proposition
The Sony STR-AN1000 costs about $900, placing it in the mid-range for AV receivers. It appeals to both serious home theater fans and casual users. They get quality without spending too much. The price is fair, given its many features and performance.
Looking at the Sony STR-AN1000, it offers unique benefits. It might cost more than some, but it’s worth it. It has Dolby Atmos, 360 Spatial Sound Mapping, and easy connections.
Compared to others, the STR-AN1000 shines in sound quality and user experience. Many are happy with its performance for movies and music.
Buying a Sony STR-AN1000 is a smart choice for better home entertainment. It’s a good mix of quality and price. Its features make it a strong contender in today’s market.
Consumer Feedback and Reviews
People generally like the Sony STR-AN1000, praising its sound quality and 360 Spatial Sound Mapping. They also appreciate how easy it is to stream content and its strong video features. This makes it a top pick for those who love home theaters.
But, some users are worried about the price. At $900, it’s pricier than some competitors. For example, the Onkyo TX-NR6100 is cheaper and has similar power output. This makes some people question if the price is worth it.
Despite its strengths, it’s important to look at both sides of the coin. Knowing what users say can help you decide if the STR-AN1000 fits your needs. It’s all about finding the right balance for your home theater.
FAQ
What is the power output of the Sony STR-AN1000?
The Sony STR-AN1000 can power about 85 watts per channel at 6 ohms. In real use, it can deliver around 85-90 watts at 8 ohms.
Does the Sony STR-AN1000 support 8K video?
Yes, it supports 8K pass-through and 4K/120Hz video.
What audio formats are supported by the STR-AN1000?
It supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby Digital, DTS, and PCM audio formats.
How does the Sony STR-AN1000 perform in gaming?
It has Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) for better gaming performance.
Is wireless streaming possible with the STR-AN1000?
Yes, it supports Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, AirPlay, Chromecast, and works well with Spotify and Sonos.
How does the 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology work?
It uses technology to make audio seem like it’s coming from more places. This creates a wider soundstage and better surround sound.
What are some known advantages of the Sony STR-AN1000?
It has great audio processing, supports many audio formats, and integrates well with streaming services. It also has unique features like Acoustic Center Sync.
Are there any disadvantages to consider?
Some downsides are its lower power output compared to others, fewer HDMI inputs for 4K/120Hz, and no parametric EQ features.
How is the setup process for the STR-AN1000?
Setting it up is easy thanks to its user-friendly interface and included calibration mic. This makes adjusting audio simple.
Is the STR-AN1000 compatible with Sonos systems?
Yes, it works with Sonos systems, but you need an extra device for integration.
What are the dimensions and weight of the STR-AN1000?
It’s 16.9 x 13 x 6.1 inches and weighs about 20 pounds.
What streaming services are supported by the STR-AN1000?
It supports Spotify Connect, Apple AirPlay, and Chromecast Built-In. This gives you many options for streaming audio.