Sony STR-DG510

The Sony STR-DG510 is a home theater receiver system that uses HDMI switching and video upconverting. HDMI or High-Definition Multimedia Interface is an audio/video connector that is used to transmit uncompressed digital streams that replace the usual RF or coaxial cables, S-video and other connectors used before. The product weighs 17.6 pounds, has a width of 16.9 inches, a height of 6.2 inches and depth of 12.2 inches.

Technical Details

The Sony STR-DG510 has a surround sound for audio output mode. It has a 5.1 channel with 100 watts per channel. It accepts up to 1080i signal through HDMI and is optimized for Blu-ray disc and other HD sources. It also features the following built in decoders: Dolby Pro Logic, Dolby Digital, Dolby Pro Logic II, and DTS decoders. The receiver also functions using digital tuning technology and could support AM and FM stations. A universal remote control could be used for easy control of this device.

Review Summary

Sony came out a new line of entry-level AV receivers with HDMI connectivity. This HDMI inputs include four new receivers, namely the STR-DG510, STR-DG710, STR-DG810, and STR-DG910. The STR-DG510 is a 6.1 channel receiver that offers 1080i pass-through. It is XM Connect and Play ready, that is, one just has to connect an XM Mini-Tuner to get reception. Digital Cinema Auto Calibration system is also included to assist in setting the levels for the speakers. There is also the Portable Audio Enhancer, which is supposed to make compressed audio files such as MP3s sound better. Sony claims the STR-DG510 which will be available in March, will deliver 100 watts to each of the channels. The quality of these speakers can be felt and seen, the sound is very clean and clear. Sony’s entry-level AV receiver, the STR-DG510 gives great sound, minimal noise and easy to use, with surround sound. The advanced performance of the Sony STR-DG510 Home Theater Receiver features 500 total watts from 5.1 channels and A/V Sync for precision integration with today’s flat panel televisions. This system provides amazing sound reproduction for TV programs and movies. Powerful HDMI connectivity allows uncompressed 1080i video to pass directly to your HDMI-compatible television for crystal clear images. Other features like Digital Cinema Sound and digital cinema auto calibration create the impression that one is in a cinema hall. The amplifiers’ total output power is 500 watt. There are lots of input options, including optical input. The power output is not massive, but completely sufficient, particularly with quality speakers. Even in very rural mountainous areas where the FM reception is poor, with use of this HDMI connectivity, radio reception came out as quite good by just using the FM antennae that came with the unit. For its price the Sony STR-DG510 is a good buy.