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Sony STR-DG820

Manufacturer: Sony Part number: STR-DG820

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$291.05 - $426.99 at 6 online stores

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Average user rating: 2.0 stars out of 6 reviews

More product information:: Editors' blog post; User reviews; Specifications; Manufacturer info

Description:: The STR-DG820 7.1 channel A/V receiver delivers the Full HD 1080 experience to a home theater system. This 1080p A/V receiver features HDMI with "Active Intelligence", plus x.v.Color and 1080/24p signal capability. In addition to decoding uncompressed audio (LPCM via HDMI), the STR-DG820 decodes the latest audio formats from Dolby Labs and DTS making ... Read more

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CNET editors' blog post

By Matthew Moskovciak, 02/26/08

When Onkyo released the budget TX-SR605 AV receiver last year, it rocked the industry with its low price and high-end features such as Dolby TrueHD and DTS-Master Audio decoding. Other manufacturers pretty much had to stay on the sidelines as TX-SR605s flew off the shelf, but it looks as if Sony is ready to fight back with its new line of budget AV receivers. The company's 2008 line of AV receivers includes four new affordably priced models--the STR-DG520, STR-DG720, STR-DG820 and STR-DG920--and they look pretty good from the spec sheet. Here are the details:

The STR-DG520

(Credit: Sony)

Key features of the Sony STR-DG520:

5.1 channels, 100 watts of power
Two HDMI inputs
Supports 1080p pass-through at 60 and 24 frames per second
Available in March for about $200

The STR-DG720

(Credit: Sony)

Step-up features on the STR-DG720:

7.1 channels, 105 watts of power
Three HDMI inputs
Can handle eight channels of LPCM audio
XM-ready
Available in March for about $300

The STR-DG820

The Sony STR-DG820 looks like the sweet spot in the line, with four HDMI inputs and high resolution audio decoding.

(Credit: Sony)

Step-up features on the STR-DG820:

7.1 channels, 110 watts of power
Four HDMI inputs
Onboard decoding for Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-High Resolution Audio and DTS-HD Master Audio
Supports x.v.Color
XM-ready with Neural Surround Sound
Includes a Sony Digital Media Port
Available in May for about $400

The STR-DG920

The Sony STR-DG920 offers the most functionality, including HDMI upconversion, but costs $600.

(Credit: Sony)

Step-up features on the STR-DG920:

Upscales analog signals up to 1080p over its HDMI output
Features icon-driven menu system, possibly similar to what we've seen on the STR-DA5300ES
Supports x.v.Color and Deep Color
Available in June for about $600

First things first--don't put too much stock in the x.v.Color and Deep Color features. To take advantage of x.v.Color and Deep Color, everything in the signal chain needs to be compliant, including your video player and HDTV, and many components aren't compliant. Then, you also need the program material to be authored using x.v.Color and Deep Color. Considering that no Blu-ray discs are currently out or scheduled to be released with x.v.Color or Deep color, it's just not a very practical feature.

What about the rest of it? While it's nice to see a dual HDMI receiver fall into the $200 range, it looks like the sweet spot is STR-DG820, with its four HDMI inputs, high resolution audio support, and $400 price tag. That's competitive with the aforementioned budget receiver champ, the TX-SR605--that identically priced Onkyo model offers only two HDMI inputs, but it also includes the key convenience of converting its analog video inputs to 480p HDMI digital output. The STR-GD920 offers more advanced upconversion features and a graphical user interface, but with a higher price tag of $600. These receivers certainly look like contenders compared with last year's Onkyo AV receiver line, but buyers might want to wait and see if Onkyo offers even more for less with its 2008 line of receivers.

If you're looking to spend a little more, Sony's ES line of AV receivers remains current, including the Sony STR-DA5300ES, which is currently our highest rated AV receiver.

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User reviews

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Average user rating: 2.0 stars out of 6 reviews
My rating: 0 stars

Showing opinion 1 to 6 out of 6

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8 stars

Great A/V receiver for the price

by Dan Dautrich on July 5, 2008

Pros: Plenty of inputs, easy auto-calibration, decodes HD audio formats, XM Satellite Radio ready

Cons: Awkward remote, no analog-digital video transcoding, standby mode accessible by remote only

Summary: Pros:
+ 4 HDMI v1.3a inputs with support for 1080p/24, Deep Color, and xvYCC
+ Up to 7.1 channel output (110Wx7, 8 ohms, 1kHz, 0.7% THD) with A/

...

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Summary: Pros:
+ 4 HDMI v1.3a inputs with support for 1080p/24, Deep Color, and xvYCC
+ Up to 7.1 channel output (110Wx7, 8 ohms, 1kHz, 0.7% THD) with A/B speaker zones (7.1/2.0)
+ Lots of inputs: 3 optical audio, 1 coaxial digital audio, 4 HDMI v1.3a video/audio, 3 component video, 2 RCA stereo audio, 3 RCA stereo video/audio, 1 additional RCA stereo video/audio on front panel
+ Easy auto-calibration
+ Re-assignable digital audio inputs
+ Customizable display names for each input
+ Decodes Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, DTS High-Resolution Audio, and DTS-HD Master Audio
+ XM Satellite Radio ready
+ Supports Sony BRAVIA Theater Sync and Sony Digital Media Port

Cons:
- Awkward remote
- Cannot send analog video signals (e.g., component) through HDMI output, or digital inputs through the analog outputs
- Only has LFE subwoofer (RCA jack) output, no speaker-level (spring-loaded terminal) output
- Multi-channel and DSD signals from SA-CDs are not supported
- Standby power mode can only be activated by the remote
- No S-Video inputs

If you're looking for a solid receiver with plenty of inputs, including four (yes, 4!) HDMI v1.3a audio/video inputs, the Sony STR-DG820 is a great buy. This is one of Sony's new line of receivers for 2008 along with the STR-DG520, STR-DG720, and STR-DG920. This is a very compelling receiver for its price as it packs in a lot of great features when compared to other popular receivers including the Denon AVR988 and Onkyo TX-SR606.

Both the 820 and the 920 model have on-board decoding of the high-definition audio tracks found on HD-DVD and Blu-ray discs, along with Linear PCM support (up to 8 channels, 192 kHz). A note to fellow PS3 owners: you'll need to use LPCM output to let the PS3 internally decode the audio because it currently lacks the ability to output all of the HD audio formats natively using bitstream through the HDMI connection. SA-CD owners will be disappointed to find out that this receiver doesn't support any of the advanced audio tracks of the discs, so we're stuck with plain stereo CD output.

Any standard speaker arrangements between stereo (2.0) and the full 7.1 surround sound can be attached and configured individually for optimal performance, or let the quick and easy auto-calibration feature work its magic. I was caught off-guard by the fact that the only connection available for a subwoofer is an LFE (RCA) connector, so my previous passive sub from the old receiver couldn't be connected using bare speaker wires and had to be replaced.

A wide variety of electronics can be hooked up through the different named inputs: Video 1 (analog and digital video/audio), Video 2 (analog video/audio, front panel), BD (digital video/audio), DVD (analog and digital video/audio), Satellite (analog and digital video/audio), TV (analog and digital audio), and SA-CD/CD (analog audio). Digital audio sources can be reassigned to other input modes to match your connections (e.g., you can use the optical audio input labeled Video 1 with the component video input labeled DVD). The only catch is that analog inputs must exit through the analog outputs rather than being transcoded and output digitally through HDMI, and digital inputs cannot be sent through analog outputs. For about an extra $200, analog-to-digital transcoding will be available only on the higher-end 920 model due out soon, but I don't really have a problem with having two different cables connecting from my receiver to my LCD TV instead of just a single HDMI cable.

The included remote is a bit difficult to use with lots of functionality trying to be packed into a minimal amount of buttons. Yellow, silver, and purple labels and dots attempt to organize buttons based on which mode the remote currently is operating, and it takes a while to make any sense of it all. Even after some use, some buttons still make no sense, like why there separate buttons labeled Amp Menu, Options, Menu, BD/DVD Top Menu, and BD/DVD Menu when one or more of these could have been consolidated into a single button. Also, there are two buttons labeled TV--one switches the input to TV mode and one activates buttons marked with a yellow dot on the remote. Basically, whoever designed the remote needs fired. Do yourself a favor and get something like a Logitech Harmony One universal remote to replace this kludgy beast.

All in all, the convenience and flexibility of this receiver combined with the great features for a relatively low price made this product an easy decision for me. If it weren't for the clumsy remote and lack of analog-digital transcoding, I'd give this receiver a higher rating.

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5 out of 5 users found this user opinion helpful.
1 stars

Was good while it worked

by burningedge on August 12, 2008

Pros: Easy to setup and use

Cons: Reliability

Summary: This unit was great while it worked, but after about a month the digital display broke and that was where the real problems began: dealing with Sony.

I've been

...

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Summary: This unit was great while it worked, but after about a month the digital display broke and that was where the real problems began: dealing with Sony.

I've been trying to get this fixed and have wasted countless hours on the phone. I began by bringing the unit to a Sony recommended repair place, Electronic Design and Service in Glendale, CA. They tried repeatedly to fix it and couldn't and then recommended a replacement because the final part they wanted to try to repair the unit was on back order. Sony did not respond, so I had to get involved and called Sony. Even though one of Sony's own Techs recommended replacing he unit, Sony said they would have to call back within 3 days and never did. I had to call back, and some guy named John in the Tech department said that the part was no longer on back order and wanted to send it to EDS (So John seemingly overruled the tech guy who wanted to replace the unit). EDS got the part and it still couldn't fix the problem. Again, they emailed Sony asking for a replacement. Sony did not respond. I called Sony again, and they said they would check into and call me back in three days. They never did. Today, I called again. Now, John tells me they will respond within two days.

Each time I've had to call, I've had to go through three call transfers. Sony has done a terrible job communicating with me, its own internal departments, and EDS. Whoever John is in the Tech. Department, he should be fired. Sony does not stand behind its product, it cares very little about honoring it own warranty, and about providing for its customers.

I would recommend that nobody buy this product unless you have a pact with God and are damn sure nothing will go wrong with it.

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2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
5 stars

Very basic low cost entry level A/V Receiver

by msgt99 on December 12, 2008

Pros: Low price, good mix of input connections

Cons: Video output handling

Summary: I was unimpressed with with the audio performance and the video handling of the unit.

The fact that it requires multiple video connections to the TV is not clearly explained ...

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Summary: I was unimpressed with with the audio performance and the video handling of the unit.

The fact that it requires multiple video connections to the TV is not clearly explained in the manual. For example the HDMI output port will only output video from an input HDMI video source. A composite video output connection is required for any composite video inputs. And if you have an RGB input it will also require a RGB output connection to the TV as well. So potentially you may have to have 3 video connections to the TV ? HDMI, composite, & RGB.

Also audio to the TV will only go over the HDMI connection. No audio from a composite connection will go to the TV.

Working thru these limitations and connection requirements took several chat sessions and a phone call with Sony support.

Audio performance was also unimpressive. Despite using the auto calibration process I could not get the rear speakers to perform well enough to give me a good surround sound output. I used Sony brand speakers (granted not the best) but should have been able to get OK sound, but didn't.

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1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
10 stars

I was surprise how much my cable video improved.

by carlsbad001 on December 25, 2008

Pros: I Also have a BD DVD and Plasma TV hooked up to it. The thunder from the first BD movie I played made my wife jump.

Cons: The unit will not turn on using the remote if you don't manually push in the unit's power button.

Summary: My cable TV is controlled by a Series 2 DVR TiVo. This uses old RCA jacks. The picture is so much better now!!! I Also have a BD DVD and ...

Read more

Summary: My cable TV is controlled by a Series 2 DVR TiVo. This uses old RCA jacks. The picture is so much better now!!! I Also have a BD DVD and Plasma TV hooked up to it. The thunder from the first BD movie I played made my wife jump.

The unit will not turn on using the remote if you don't manually push in the unit's power button. When I setup my multi-remote, I had turned off the unit manually, and then I couldn't get the new remote to work. When I tried using the factory remote and it didn't work either. I got up and pressed the power button, which stays in, and both remotes worked then. That will confuse a lot of people, don't know why they put in a master power button.

I bought this, speakers (SKS-HT 540), BD DVD (DMP-BD35K), and HDMI cables, monster speaker wires, all under 900 @ J&R, (price negotiable phone orders).

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2 stars

PIECE OF JUNK

by panamajim1 on December 24, 2008

Pros: I like nothing because it has never worked.

Cons: It won't turn on. It won't do anything.

Summary: Brand new right out of the box, followed power procedure in manual, green LED turned on and zilch from then on. Sony online tech rep pronouned it dead. Sony repair ...

Read more

Summary: Brand new right out of the box, followed power procedure in manual, green LED turned on and zilch from then on. Sony online tech rep pronouned it dead. Sony repair center supposedly replaced a part and said it is ok. Went home powered up per manual, ran for less than a minute with display working etc. then quit.

I am going to use this as a giant paper weight and buy a Onkyo TX-SR606 that I should have bought in the first place but trusted Sony to have a good product. WRONG!

Do not buy the the Sony DG820.

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1 stars

Right out box has not worked even when "repaired".

by james1338 on December 22, 2008

Pros: Nothing at all.

Cons: Has never worked.

Summary: Even when "fixed" by Sony Repair center it fails to function. It is a piece of junk and this is a brand new right out of the box machine. My ...

Read more

Summary: Even when "fixed" by Sony Repair center it fails to function. It is a piece of junk and this is a brand new right out of the box machine. My mistake was that when it arrived at my home in Georgia, USA, that I didn't plug it in to see if it worked. Trusting that Sony (I have other Sony products that work well) makes a good reliable product and because my wife and I were in the process of packing our stuff to move to the Republic of Panama, I chose to wait until after we arrived there. BIG MISTAKE!!! Not only does it not work but the warrenty is only good in the USA. The Sony online tech rep proclaimed it a gonner and so I took it to the very large (not a good sign) Sony repair center here in Panama City. Three weeks later after they had installed a part they ordered from the USA (so they claim) it still doesn't work. Turned on there is no display - period. The power light lites up and that is about the size of it. I bought it for the four HDMI inputs. A watermelon would have more use.

Don't buy this thing!!!

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Showing opinion 1 to 6 out of 6

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Specifications

Manufacturer: Sony
Part number: STR-DG820
Description: The STR-DG820 7.1 channel A/V receiver delivers the Full HD 1080 experience to a home theater system. This 1080p A/V receiver features HDMI with "Active Intelligence", plus x.v.Color and 1080/24p signal capability. In addition to decoding uncompressed audio (LPCM via HDMI), the STR-DG820 decodes the latest audio formats from Dolby Labs and DTS making this model fully compatible with Blu-ray Disc. Now, you can hear the original mix of your favorite BD titles regardless of audio format. Need more HDMI inputs? The STR-DG820 features four HDMI inputs that allows for more HD content to be connected. Looking for simplicity? BRAVIA Sync provides a one button operation (via HDMI) of your entire A/V experience with a select number of BRAVIA televisions. Because no room is perfect, Sony's Digital Cinema Auto Calibration (and its supplied microphone) simplifies speaker set up and optimizes speaker performance with the push of one button in just 30 seconds. This full featured A/V receiver expands its ability to playback music from various audio sources. Would you like to listen to satellite radio? The XM Connect-and-Play ready feature provides the ability to access XM satellite radio programming in surround sound.

General
Product Type AV receiver
Width 16.9 in
Depth 12.2 in
Height 6.2 in
Weight 17.6 lbs
Audio System
Sound Output Mode Surround Sound
Built-in Decoders Dolby Pro Logic, DTS Neo:6, Dolby Pro Logic II, Dolby Digital, DTS-ES decoder, DTS decoder, DTS 96/24, Dolby Digital Surround EX, Dolby Pro Logic IIx
Surround Sound Effects Neural Surround, Digital Cinema Sound EX
Digital Sound Processor (DSP) Yes
DSP Presets Music, Cinema
Surround System Class 7.1 channel
Output Power / Total 770 Watt
Total Harmonic Distortion 1.0 %
Amplifier Output Details 110 Watt - 8 Ohm - THD 1.0 % - 7 channel(s) ( Surround )
Built-in Display Fluorescent
Additional Features XM satellite radio ready, Auto sound calibration, A-B speaker switch
Connections / Cables / Slots
HD connectors HDMI connection(s) on this receiver make it a great choice for your High-Def home theater. One cable carries digital audio and video data directly to your display.
Signal Switching Features
HDMI Pass-Through Up to 1080p
Connectors
Headphone Jack Yes
Coaxial Digital Input Yes
Optical Digital Input Yes
Radio
Type Radio tuner - AM/FM - Digital
Digital Tuner Band XM
Tuning Display Fluorescent display
AM Preset Station Qty 30
FM Preset Station Qty 30
Antenna Form Factor Loop AM / wire FM
Additional Features Station naming
Headphones
Headphones Type None

Microphone
Type None
Remote Control
Remote Control Remote control - Infrared
Remote Control (2nd)
Type None
Miscellaneous
Included Accessories Optimizer microphone, FM antenna, AM antenna
Connections
Connector Type 1 x Digital audio input (coaxial) ( RCA phono ) - Rear, 3 x Component video input ( RCA phono x 3 ) - Rear, 2 x Audio line-out ( RCA phono x 2 ) - Rear, 1 x FM antenna - Rear, 1 x Component video output ( RCA phono x 3 ) - Rear, 4 x HDMI input ( 19 pin HDMI Type A ) - Rear, 1 x HDMI output ( 19 pin HDMI Type A ) - Rear, 1 x XM antenna - Rear, 1 x AM antenna - Rear, 3 x Composite video input ( RCA phono ) - Rear, 1 x Monitor output ( RCA phono ) - Rear, 1 x Headphones ( Phone stereo 6.25 mm ) - Front, 3 x Digital audio input (optical) - Rear, 7 x Speakers output ( Banana x 2 ) - Rear, 2 x Speakers output (multi zone) ( Click-fit x 2 ) - Rear, 1 x Composite video/audio input ( RCA phono x 3 ) - Front, 1 x Microphone ( Mini-phone 3.5 mm ) - Front, 5 x Audio line-in ( RCA phono x 2 ) - Rear, 1 x Subwoofer output ( RCA phono ) - Rear, 1 x Composite video output ( RCA phono ) - Rear
Power
Power Device Power supply - Internal
Power AC 120 V ( 60 Hz )

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Specifications

General

Audio System

Connections / Cables / Slots

Signal Switching Features

Connectors

Radio

Headphones

Microphone

Remote Control

Remote Control (2nd)

Miscellaneous

Connections

Power

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