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Hands-on with Samsung's AS730 HTIB
When it rains, it pours, and no sooner did we unpack the Paradigm SUB 25 than the new Samsung AS730 HTIB showed up at our doorstep. The AS730 came in its own fairly big box chock full of good stuff -- for 500 clams, you get a 5.1-channel speaker set (four identical front and surround channels, a center and a powered subwoofer), a receiver, remote, iPod dock, calibration mic and even cables to hook everything up. As you'd expect from a HTIB system, all the cables are color-coded to help users get things set up quickly -- unfortunately that color coding couldn't help us navigate the tightly-spaced speaker connections. Sure enough, it's pretty crowded around the back of the receiver, with enough connections to wire up prospective buyers' systems via HDMI, component and composite. Best of all, there's some room for expansion as well, with 7.1-channel analog inputs and 7.1-channel speaker taps. We'll put this package in the review queue and report back when we've got a story to tell; until then, feel free to check the pics of the not-so photo-friendly glossy black kit after the break.
Samsung rolls out the AS730 HTIB system
For most people making their first foray into HT gear, springing for a full-blown audio rig to go along with a new TV is just too expensive, and while starting out with just a pair of speakers up front might fit the budget, it doesn't deliver the surround sound thrills that make on satisfied with the new purchase. That's exactly why HTIB systems like Samsung's new AS730 that get you going quickly but don't immediately "dead-end" your system make sense. For $500, you get a 7.1-channel receiver and a 5.1-channel speaker system with a powered subwoofer. With three HDMI inputs, three Toslink inputs, the requisite iPod dock (with analog video support), auto calibration and even 7.1 channel analog audio inputs, you can unbox this package and be set up before the popcorn is ready; better still, there's room to grow with this system. At this price point, some tradeoffs have to be made -- your Blu-ray deck will have to decode any Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD MA to LPCM, but that's just picking nits, isn't it? Full press release and a few photos after the break.
Sony brings STR-DA6400ES network AV receiver, three others to Europe
Sony's STR-DA6400ES, which casually streams high-def content over CAT5e, has finally nailed down a date to mingle with crowds in Europe. Just today, Sony has announced that the aforementioned model will be available this May along with three other new STR-DH receivers: the STR-DH500, STR-DH700 and the STR-DH800. The flagship model boasts 7.1-channel audio, DLNA compatibility, six HDMI inputs (alongside two outputs) and Digital Cinema Auto-Calibration. The rest of the crew ranges from 5.1- to 7.1-channel and are generally stripped down versions of the big papa. For more details on each (price notwithstanding), give that read link a look.
Pioneer's SC-07 receiver gets reviewed with an approving nod
The loveliness that trickle-down is, Pioneer's flagship SC-09TX receiver is no longer the only member of the family packing the B&O-sourced ICEpower Class D amplification. The $2,200, 110-Watt 7.1-channel SC-07 went under review at digitaltrends and to no one's surprise, it was liked. Taking top honors were the clean front panel and powerful, warm sound. The remote, however, wasn't so well-liked and much like other reviews, the lack of HDMI video processing didn't slip by unnoticed for this target market or price point. As much as we admire Pioneer's purist approach and even feel that it's likely that a display paired with an SC-07 is probably more than capable of handling HDMI scaling duties, it's a notable missing check mark relative to the competition.
Sony rolls out new AV receivers for 2009
Along with new Blu-ray players and HTIB systems, Sony's bumped up the specs on its latest receivers, including S-AIR wireless audio support on its 7.1 channel STR-DN1000 and STR-DH800 models. The $500 STR-DN1000 has similar features to last year's line, with 110 watts per channel, Digital Media Port, 1080p/24 x.v. Color support, four HDMI inputs and Sirius radio service support, while S-AIR can be added through the $50 EZW-T100 transmitter and $120 AIR-SA10 speaker systems. The STR-DH800 drops the piano black finish, icon driven menu system and $100 from the price of the higher end model, both expected on shelves in June. The STR-DH700, STR-DH500 and STR-DH100 also offer slightly less power, features and HDMI inputs for $200 and $150, respectively, when they go on sale later this month. Hit the read link to get more details on each, there should be something for everyone to like (unless you prefer an ES model.)
S-Video disappearing from AV receivers, few seem to notice
Not like it's any shock to see a legacy port slowly fade away as new technologies come along, but really, it's kind of amazing that S-Video has hung around as long as it has. So far as we can tell, the format has been in existence since at least 1987, and no matter the adoption rate, 22 years in the consumer electronics industry is a milestone to be proud of. CNET has a new piece up that points out just how many AV receivers are dropping S-Video connectors entirely, with Yamaha's new RX-V family among the latest to bid the port a fond farewell. Our question to you is this: do you mind? When's the last time you actually used an S-Video socket over component, HDMI, DVI, VGA or DisplayPort? We're guessing most of you won't even be able to recall.
Yamaha updates its RX-V receiver lineup across five models
It's late February which means it's time for Yamaha to roll out new receiver models across its bread-and-butter RX-V receiver lineup. Right on cue, Yammy has introduced five refreshed models, ranging from the RX-V765 to the RX-V365. The top four models now feature 4 HDMI inputs, and 1080p upscaling of analog inputs has now been sprinkled across the top three models. On the audio side, all models save the RX-V365 now play nice with Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD MA. One thing is for sure -- with prices ranging from $650 to $250, these features combined with Yamaha's typically solid performance will put a lot of pressure on other offerings, both in the Yamaha family and out. Hit the links for full details on the model of your dreams.Read - RX-V765 ($649.95) Read - RX-V665 ($549.95) Read - RX-V565 ($479.95) Read - RX-V465 ($379.95) Read - RX-V365 ($249.95)
Ask Engadget HD: What's the best mid-range AV receiver?
We're keeping it short and sweet this week, but you can feel free to test your dissertation writing skills in comments below should you feel compelled to answer. And you know you're eager to help Dave out here, right? "My old receiver is starting to crap out on me and I'm looking to replace it soon. I don't know a lot about receivers but I'm looking at something in the $500 to $700 range. Any suggestions?"Like we said, brief and beautiful, and tons of wiggle room. Show this guy what kind of knowledge you've got, and make sure you point him out a solid deal, too.Got a burning question that you'd love to toss out for Engadget HD (or its readers) to take a look at? Tired of Google's blank stares when you ask for real-world experiences? Hit us up at ask at engadgethd dawt com and keep an eye on this space -- your inquiry could be next.
NAD intros the C 725BEE stereo receiver for those sticking to 2-channel
NAD Electronics has introduced the C 725BEE stereo receiver for those who either have an audio-only system separate from their HT gear or still aren't sold on the whole discrete multichannel thing. Let's face it -- despite the great sound quality possible on recordings that go past the Red Book audio standard, chances are that most of your audio library is still sourced from two-channel CDs. Content is king, so there might be a place for this 50-Watt receiver with an analog stage that must be something special, because NAD saw fit to add its designer's (Bjorn Erik Edvardsen) initials right on the model name. Promising the sound quality of separate amplifier/preamp gear, the C 725BEE includes NAD's Soft Clipping and Power Drive circuitry, and as expected from the brand, the modest 50-Watt rating belies the 200-Watt peak short-term output. The $799 might be well worth it if you spend a lot of time sitting in your listening den's sweet spot.
Denon's AVR-1909 AV receiver gets reviewed, not for the faint of heart
On the face of it, the Denon AVR-1909 receiver seems like a great unit for someone either HT beginners or casual users -- a reputable brand, rich feature set and modest $649 price put it high on the short list; good sound quality should cinch the deal. Not so fast, though -- the CNET gang ran the AVR-1909 through the gauntlet, and while the positives certainly came through (with sound quality besting the Onkyo TX-SR606), the setup and day-to-day use with the included remote left a lot to be desired. To be fair, the remote problem can be solved by using a third-party model, but the text-only black and white onscreen UI for setup is glaring in 2009. Obviously, trade-offs had to be made to hit the price point, and HT zealots like us can live with some setup difficulties for good sound, but more casual users might find this a hard pill to swallow. Hit the link for the gory details, and give this unit some hands-on time before committing.
Cambridge Audio readying Azur 640R V2 receiver for spring
Here's the perfect receiver to pair up with that Cambridge Audio 640BR Blu-ray player you're eyeing -- the company's own Azur 640R V2 receiver, set for release this spring. Sure, it's only packing three HDMI 1.3b inputs, but what catches our eye is the attention paid to quiet and cool operation thanks to the forced convection heat tunnel -- even when the 7x100-Watt amplifier section is cranking -- and an emphasis on sound quality. Befitting a top-end receiver, support for the lossless Blu-ray audio formats is onboard, and RS232 made it, too. No word on what sort of video processing and setup niceties made it into the mix, but based on the V1 model, we're not expecting much on those fronts. Pricing has not been announced for Cambridge Audio's home market, so maybe it's expecting us Yanks to do initial testing of the $1800 price point. [Via Cybertheater]
Arcam gets really official with beastly FMJ AVR600 AV receiver
We already knew of the FMJ AVR600 courtesy of a telling Dolby Volume release, but now Arcam has come forward with the full details on this monolithic creature. Wrapped in a sleek, subtle but altogether intimidating enclosure, the AVR600 houses a "huge toroidal power transformer and high efficiency class G amplifiers" that deliver 120-watts per channel. There's also internal decoding of DTS-HD Master, DTS High Resolution, Dolby TrueHD and Dolby Digital Plus formats, and the 5 HDMI inputs / 2 outputs should keep you busy buying new components. For two-channel freaks (you're undercover, but we know who you are), the beast can be transformed into a stereo powerhouse with a single button press. Unfortunately, pricing is still listed as "TBD," but if you really have to wonder, chances are your budget can't handle the truth. One more look (in black) after the break.
Pioneer breaks out iPhone-friendly, multi-zone AV receivers
No question, the little iPhone / iPod compatible bit is included just to stir up a buzz, but it's hard to say that the inclusion doesn't make Pioneer's latest line of AV receivers a touch more desirable than models past. Here at CES, the firm is delivering four new AVRs, all with "high resolution audio" and HDMI 1.3 repeaters. The higher-end VSX-919AH and VSX-1019AH models both feature Pioneer's proprietary Hybrid Amplifier Technology II (P.H.A.T.), Dolby TrueHD / DTS-HD decoding, 120-watts x 7, KURO Link and multi-zone pre-outs, while the latter unit steps it up with a Faroudja 1080p video scaler. Those with smaller budgets / appetites can opt for the 5.1-channel VSX-519V or VSX-819H (pictured above), which include 110-watts x 5, fewer ports and less awesome extras. The foursome will hit shelves in April for $200 to $500 depending on model; full rundown is after the break.
Marantz's SR6003 AV receiver gets reviewed, deemed fantastic
With a name like Marantz, it has to be good, right? Evidently so, as the outfit's SR6003 AV receiver received high marks by the critics over at TrustedReviews. Setup was found to be a breeze, the build quality was phenomenal and the functionality was top-shelf. During testing, reviewers were blown away by how dynamic the audio was, with it packing the ability to both "rip your head off" and emit the subtle details that we all enjoy. Furthermore, performance was found to be just as excellent with music as it was with movies, and quite simply, they figured that you'd be hard pressed to "find anything better" in the price range.
NAD introduces 7.1-channel T 737 / T 747 AV receivers
The goods keep flowing from the doors at NAD, and now we've got two new multi-channel AV receivers to swoon over. The lower-end T 737 checks in with 40-watts of power per channel, a trio of surround modes, AM / FM tuner, XM / DAB compatibility and iPod support. The T 747 steps it up with a 60-watt per channel amp, internal decoding of the latest lossless audio codecs from Dolby and DTS and an auto-calibration function to ensure your setup is, um, set up correctly. Expect 'em to hit retail outlets in February / January (respectively) for $799 and $1,299 (also respectively).
NAD coming to CES bearing gifts for AV enthusiasts
New two-channel gear aside, you just know NAD wouldn't turn its back on components for this fad of moving pictures with audio. Sure enough, New Audio Dimensions is bringing out updates to its T-series of AV receivers (T 785, T 775, T 765), T 175 AV Tuner-Pre-Pro and Master Series M15HD Pre-Pro. The most notable new tech here is the use of Modular Design Construction (MDC) -- a design that allows NAD to build new functionality into products module-by-module for tasks like audio decoding and image processing. The $4,000 T 785 receiver packs in the top of the line AM 200 and VM 200 modules for audio and video, respectively, and things step downward to the AM 100 and VM 100 modules by the time you get to the $3,000 T 765 receiver. Follow the link for full model line pricing info.
Ask Engadget HD: Best stereo receiver / amplifier?
This week's Ask Engadget HD inquiry caught us completely off guard -- we mean, how often do you hear of someone these days looking for the best of the best in pure stereo sound quality? Rather than buy a janky 5.1 system via a HTIB bundle, Thaddius is looking to make the best of a stereo situation. Help him out, won't you? "I have some nice speakers left over from a recording facility, and I'm looking to find a great receiver / amplifier that does stereo right. I'll be relying on two towers and possibly a subwoofer in the future, and I'm hoping for something known for excellent sound quality and a nice feature set. Any 2.1 aficionados out there care to chime in?" Surely this fellow isn't the only one looking to make their 2.0 / 2.1 system shine due to a lack of space for a full blown multi-channel setup, so why not provide a bit of assistance if you're in the same boat? Santa will love you forever, you know.Got a burning question that you'd love to toss out for Engadget HD (or its readers) to take a look at? Tired of Google's blank stares when you ask for real-world experiences? Hit us up at ask at engadgethd dawt com and keep an eye on this space -- your inquiry could be next.
Sunfire's TGR-401 AV receiver nets a thumbs-up review
If you're on the fence about Sunfire's recently released $4,000 Theater Grand Receiver (TGR-401), we suggest you have your dealer arrange an in-home demo; but if you still need some swaying, the the review at Home Entertainment magazine might get you to pull the trigger. The naysayers will tell you that no $4k AVR should be without onboard Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD MA decoding and ship with a 3-in, 1-out HDMI setup. Good points, we say, but the review found plenty to like in the sonics this beast delivered. Combined with a good UI and a usable combo of Auto EQ with manual tweaking to bring things right in line, the proverbial "straight wire with gain" came up when describing the audio performance -- and with 7x200-Watts of power, that's a lot of gain, indeed.
Onkyo intros high-end 7.1-channel PR-SC886 preamplifier-processor
Only the affluent or those willing to blow some serious pounds on their home theater setup need apply here, as Onkyo's top-notch PR-SC886 isn't for the average amateur. The new flagship device is a THX Ultra2 Plus-certified AV preamplifier-processor which decodes every single HD audio format and includes an ISF video calibration function, HDMI upscaling to 1080p via the HQV Reon-VX processor and Burr-Brown 192kHz / 24-bit audio DACs for all channels. Furthermore, you'll find a trio of TI Aureus 32-bit DSP chips, iPod compatibility, 2-channel balanced XLR inputs, 7.1-channel line-level XLR pre-outs, network support and a pre-programmed learning remote. After digesting all of that, surely you won't be shocked and appalled by the £1,500 ($2,246) price tag. Surely.[Via iGizmo]
Onkyo Japan regains its senses, offers TX-SA706X receiver in basic black
The summer heat will make you do crazy things, as we saw when Onkyo issued its TX-SA706X 7.1-channel receiver in champagne (a kinder word for "gold") in June. We know the Japanese market (and certain segments of the high end audiophile crowd) have had gold-toned gear since before the transistor, but just because something is tradition doesn't mean we have to go along with it. Cooler temperatures and heads have come around, and the Japanese market will get a black version of the receiver on November 21st, aptly named the TX-SA706X (B). We assume that one little "B" will make all the difference when it comes to matching your other components; unless, of course, you've fallen in for the whole spiel about something else becoming the "new black."
