BUDGET Dolby Atmos HOME THEATER Receiver to Beat! SONY STR-DN1080 Review

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

★ *QOTD: What features are most important to you in an AV/Home Theater receiver?* ★ *REVIEWING: **bit.ly/STRDN1080** // NEED MORE INFO? ✔︎ THE ⬆︎DESCRIPTION⬆︎* ★ *COMMENT RULES:* - No outside URLs, KZbin links or email addresses - Keep it civil. It’s okay to disagree, just don’t be a jerk about it.

[@liroso]

Simplicity. Power. Low distortion/high SN ratio. High damping.

[@SurajKumar-AskMe]

Powerful sound(which strangely enough, most of the HT Receivers still skip on!), HDMI-ARC with HDR pass through, Streaming Support, WiFi AC with 5.0 GHz support and a great app to go with it.

[@notlemcram]

Honestly not sure how to answer that. Because I used the same brand for so many years and just recently switched. I am in awe on the amount of features I never knew could exist. The best feature on my Marantz has been to pick the crosssover level for each speaker, because the center has a higher cross over point then my giant cornwalls AMD this helps balance sound across the mains vs the center, the car with the v8 driving across the screen now sounds even on all three speakers. The app on my phone to run the AC is really nice and lets me make dB adjustments on the fly in case a certain movie needs the sub turned down or the center needs to be turned up. Also changing the gain for each source is nice, I added 10 dB to my phono input! Now I’m curious what the other brands do as well.

[@jamess8306]

Native DSD playback, USB port for a stick or HDD dual sub outputs and dual monitor HDMI outs Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos capable

[@notlemcram]

Mordred Night pioneer elite, have had 5 of them over the years and a couple of them at the top end in my youth. Due to space constraints I had recently tested a elite 504 vs the sr 5014 and the marantz was a pretty shocking change for me, I am not going back and kept it. It seems the tech on AVR,s just change too much and HDMI keeps changing, so avoiding big ticket stuff these days. I still miss my basic carver two channel setup with a c1 and m500 amp for two channel, maybe I should pull that out for turntable use only. That old carver with my Cornwalls use to make horizontal blinds move sideways!

[@TimofejNenarokov]

3 years using this receiver. It worth every penny

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

That's awesome! What did you pair with it, speaker-wise?

[@TimofejNenarokov]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews with what was available for me; Sony SS-CS3 for front left and right, q-acoustic Q3000i as center, sony SS-CSE for atmos, Radiotehnika s-30(vintage USSR speakers) for back. No sub as SS-CS3 make plenty of lows.

[@reploidv]

Same here my assembly includes sscs3 X2 Sscs5 X2 Sscse X2 Sacs9 x2 I have the center channel as well but it doesn't really come through next to the tower speakers.

[@mylovehandles]

Same brother. I am using the same since 3 years, using 5.1.2 all are Sony except the subwoofer. I am using klipsch sub

[@leppy15]

I bought the yamaha rx v865 instead and I think I made a mistake since watching reviews of the Sony.

[@c0smoKram3r]

Just upgraded our 15 year old Pioneer AVR to the Sony DN1080 and the biggest improvement I've noticed is the quality of 2ch music. IMO this is potentially where this receiver really shines.

[@LayedBackJ]

Sold my Denon 2500h and bought this Sony dn1080 and wow what a difference the Sony is clear and punchy, works Great with Klipsch towers and center.

[@zuriel13g]

I bought this receiver for $75 at an estate sale. Promptly became the center to my main system. Although I'm only using it in 3.1 it's great and I'm loving how it streamlined my listening setup.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

You scored!

[@isaacsykes3]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews Yeah, he did! To the obituaries we go...lol!

[@isaacsykes3]

I'm so jealous of you right now...lol!

[@SteveSmith-cm1hx]

I have owned the 1080 for a little over 2 years now and it has checked all the boxes for me since day one. And since Sony added Dolby Vision it has even gotten better. My 1080 powers all my Klipsch speakers which I have in a 7.1 Dolby Atmos setup and it does an awesome job. That being said. Great video and I am a first time subscriber.

[@NerijusKarmilcovas]

Looking to get klipsh speakers too for the same Sony receiver which ones you got?

[@adamlives]

Just bought one. Love it. Don't care that that it was released in 2017. Just means a lot of the bugs are fixed. Upgraded from my Pioneer VSX-711 that I had for 17 years. Still worked but needed that HDMI digital audio goodness. Made by 5.1 system come alive again! Still rocking a Panasonic 58" 1080p plasma from 2010.

[@stephentuohy9000]

I have this receiver and it is a great receiver for the money. I love the features and use the Spotify feature daily. Great for home theater receiver. It is driving 2 Klipsch RP800, a paradigm center, 2 klipsch RP 502s, 2 klipsch 10 subs and an old pair Polk RTI6s. Lots of power for my home. The best feature is how reliable it is. Denon, Yamaha, pioneer all have performance issues. Has never shut down while playing. Haven't lost a channel. This is my 2nd sony. 1st one is now powering the system in my garage. I actually gave away a Yamaha because they couldn't fix it and my pioneer just fried after 14 months. I got this sony when it first came out 3 years ago

[@ReconTHG]

Really like Sony haven't changed the appearance of the receiver. I have 1040 model and when I upgrade to 1080 my missus will not notice the difference ahaha

[@r9800pro]

I bought the STR-DN1080 from the UK 2 years ago and have been enjoying it so much. Your review is very good but there is one thing that you did wrong and since I went through it myself, I would like to point it out. Do not use the Engineer Preset but rather "Full Flat" and do the room correction manually with measurements. That made it neutral sounding for me and at the same time, kept the high level of details and the punchiness. I am using it in a 5.2.2 Atmos setup which includes 2 subwoofers and 2 Atmos in-ceiling speakers and those are miles ahead of up-firing Atmos speakers. The STR-DN1080 is also awesome for music which surprised me so much in all honesty. For me, I think the STR-DN1080 is THE best 7.2 CH AVR in the market and I would only change it to get 11.2 CH one for Atmos 7.2.4 setup.

[@supermegaunderrateduploade6686]

I have a Marantz NR1710 A/V receiver. It’s like the NR1509 but with HDCP 2.3 and 7.2/5.2.2 surround sound. I love it because it’s small and doesn’t produce a lot of heat. The power is fantastic for speakers with a maximum rating under 200W and even a minimum of 80W. The user interface is just very old but stable with good setup settings and auto setup is very useful for beginners. I have a small room and have volume is amazing with great multi-channel separation and dynamics. If you need a specific type of sound out of the Marantz you need to listen for hours with your speakers to get a preferred setting and sound. If you need something compact and powerful with a standard midrange warmer sound. This is the one, but it costs a little more than the Sony depending on the retailer. Thanks for the review of the Sony!

[@dfunk70]

I just wanted to drop you a quick note to say thank you so very much. I'm very fortunate to own this very unit, and after watching your video i decided to dig into mine a bit further, and BOY did I. I even followed your instructions with calibration (and yes it took me three times to get it right, but i had speakers connected wrong). and it worked out wonderfully. Thank you for your honest review and please continue to produce quality content, such as videos like this one.

[@richardt3371]

Have just bought this to replace a much-hated Denon X2400. Full disclosure: I own the previous model 1050, and it's the main powerhouse in our lounge set-up, and I love it - the Denon was for the library and I've hated it since day 1. The 1080 is already so much better - I can hear every word spoken, it's punchier, deeper, just far more capable. I'm even thinking of using it as my 2-channel amp, replacing a stand-alone PMA-800NE with Concept 20s and REL subwoofer - it will mean fewer cables, fewer speakers (the current set up has Concept 20s next to 3020i's) and means I can utilise 2 REL T-Zero Mk III's. Music is provided by a Node 2i and a Denon DCD1500 CD/SACD player, so as long as they are doing the DAC work I'm hoping that using an AV receiver rather than a 2-channel amp won't see too much of a dip in performance, if any? I've also got a REGA turntable , but I have a Project phono stage so that should connect up just fine, too. Nothing extraordinary in my modest-budget set-up, but just want to make the most of what I have, and also make it easier to live with!

[@missing1102]

I agree about the Denon. I think audessy is lossy and I don't understand why people like those products. I tried the Marantz line for an upgrade from Sony and the price difference was 1700 dollars and the sound difference was less than 10 percent.

[@abecoat9786]

I actually purchased this receiver 2 yrs ago along with the sony core loudspeakers 5.2.2 . I honestly can't find a reason to trade up .Considering It was an open box item that I bought with a 3yr warranty all for less than the regular price of this unit its gonna be hard to let this go .

[@Spad3193]

Same here

[@endlezzdrft]

Using this for 3 years now and they are paired with Klipsch towers and 10" sub. After auto cal, it's perfect and I am completely in love. Excellent review, top notch video. Thumbs up and subbed.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thanks for sharing.

[@martyjensen452]

I just bought the 1080 as my first A/V receiver. Went to set it up and realized I needed? an RCA cable to hook up the subwoofer. Or it just seemed easier perhaps. And I bought some banana plugs for ease of connection after seeing a few of your videos. I'm excited to set up my first system this week, albeit a bit nervous honestly. I'll be watching your "how to" on setting up a 5.1 system a few more times in prep and during install! Thank you for clear, beginner friendly videos! Glad I found your channel, and I will be subscribing!

[@makkkk4444]

There is a $400 difference in the Str dh1080 and the Str dh790 in Canada. My setup is 5.1 at home. Do you have any thoughts on just the sound quality on both Sony recievers?

[@rocko10ish]

Great video! I’ve had the 1080 for a couple years running 5.2 with Klipsch speakers. Just got an LG 77C1 OLED tv and now noticing a cracking or popping sound in right front and right surround speakers ( only in Dolby Atmos setting) when pausing, rev, or fwd streaming Atmos movies. Did some research and I guess this is a common problem. Don’t think there is a solution other than switching from Dolby to Neural X setting before pausing, fwd, or rev a movie. It’s not the end of the world just something to bring up. Otherwise, I love the receiver!

[@voltairenunez2813]

i also have this cracking sound with my 1080 when i press back (dont have it when i pause or rewind) only on atmos movies on netflix. when i press back on non atmos movies, there is no cracking sound.

[@dareius9180]

Same issue here.. have you solve this?

[@davidferros4655]

Hi I had a $1000 Denon AV In fact I been buying Denon every year thinking my dolby system was great. Then 1 year I brought all sony so I got the 1080 and wow what a huge difference my system became a live. I gave my Denon away I cannot believe sony made my movie experience 200 times better. From a $500 vs a $1000 plus one

[@johnwhitehead8006]

After 7 years, I'm still happy with my Sony STR-DN1040, 7.2 channel AVR receiver. I "feel" a need to upgrade to something more exotic but it's hard to justify. Seems I will have to wait until it totally dies before upgrading to something at 3 times the price.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I appreciate you watching all the same! As much as tech changes, the truth is one can get a lot of milage out products like the Sony, even a few years after their release.

[@nedg3361]

I have a HK AVR-1600 for almost 13 years and want to upgrade it to a newer AVR for better sound quality. I am in between Sony 1080 and Yamaha V6A. Which one is preferable? Thanks

[@sabbathAndy]

Hi Andrew! Love your vids, could you do a review for the Yamaha A-S501? Also are Stereo amplifiers Better than a 5.1 in Stereo mode?

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

You may like what we have in store... To me, an amp is an amp. So if a manufacturer makes a stereo amp as well as a matching multi-channel one (assuming they're the same save for the number of channels) there shouldn't be an audible/noticeable difference between a two channel amp and a multi-channel one from the same company.

[@MultiWolfke]

Great review, i own this reciver almost 2 years. With a 5.1.2 klipsh rp 8000 f, 504 c, 502 s,500sa and rw112 sub. Setup. And its a great reciver, really gives you a cinema expirance. After auto calebration, i tweekt to the THX cross over. 80 hz for all speakers exept the sub and put theme to small. It sounds more naturelle and less boomy that way. After all great bang for your buck!

[@sparklestudios2083]

I bought Sony AVR wayback in 1998 when I was studying in L.A....I still have it lying somewhere in a closet...don't remember the model no...it was my first AVR and never had a problem or complaint for all these years. Gr8 sound and easy to setup with on screen display.

[@gtric1466]

Andrew, any chance to review an Onkyo? all i ever see is Denon and Marantz, at least you brought Sony to the table.

[@kevinandersen699]

Could you go over how receiver wattage and speaker efficiency works together

[@jaredhylton6591]

I assume that you were looking for an answer from Andrew, but what is generally called speaker efficiency is reflected by the sensitivity rating. Sensitivity typically indicates what the DB reading will be 1 meter away from the speaker with 1 watt. How you can use this rating is by knowing that every 3 DB jump in "volume" will require a doubling of the wattage. So if you want to be able to hit 100 DB at 1 meter a speaker with in room sensitivity of 91 DB would take 8 watts. While a speaker with an in room sensitivity will take 64 watts. This is the simple version, but keep in mind that you will likely be more than a meter away from some of your speakers which will require even more power to hit the same level at your seat.

[@JD-rg2tq]

Great video Andrew!! I actually have the older STR-DN1070 for my home theater setup. The STR-DN1080 had just came out when I bought my STR-DN1070 and at the time was like $200 more. So, I opted for the STR-DN1070 which is basically identical spec wise but does not have Atmos. The STR-DN1070 has been running flawless for over 3 years now in my dedicated theater room which is 15X22 with 9 foot sidewalls. I have it paired with (4) Klipsch R-26F's, (2) Klipsch RS-42 II, and (1) Klipsch RC-62 II, (2) Klipsch R-12SW . Yes, I know, it does not take a lot of power to run these speakers, but trust me, this receiver has plenty of power to rattle our 2,200 square foot ranch style house (I'm always being yelled at to turn it down). The thing I really enjoy is the user interface for these Sony's. They are super simple and easy to navigate. Down the road when I decide to upgrade to Atmos, I will pickup either the STR-DN1080 or maybe look into the STR-ZA5000ES if I can get a good deal on it. But I just wanted to say "Thank you" so much for doing an honest review for people who are on a budget. You pointed out it's strengths and flaws. For the longest time Sony did have some bad stuff that was overpriced, but it seems like they have really stepped up their game in the last few years. I've had plenty of people over to watch movies in my theater room who have much better receivers like Denon, Marantz and Yamaha and they are blown away and dumbfounded when I tell them my receiver is a Sony STR-DN1070. They literally look at me and say "you've got to be joking right". The are simply amazed with its performance and sound. Please keep up the awesome work with your videos.

[@hofmarskal]

So I bought a used sony str dn1080 last week. And aften a few days of listening with kef r100 front luft and right and also a set of monitor audio fx bronze as surrounds. It sounding impressive. I also have a svs sb2000. Its a simple setup so far, for my projektor. I have not run the setup yet, only manual distance and level adjustment, mic was missing.

[@NerijusKarmilcovas]

Hi Andrew I was buying this one, would klipsh 8000f would be good fit for it if no what would you recommend for klipsh 8000f received for music and home cinema

[@DanteBellin]

I own the Sony for over 2 Years now. I ended up plugging all my devices directly into my LG C9 Oled and via eARC to the sony for audio decoding. The Sony has some stupid flaws. When HDMI CEC is enabled, it always go to the HOME screen - even when already a medium is playing its content. So make sure HDMI CEC is disabled. And I figured some noise in the picture when my PC was running. But since I use the Sony for audio only, it doesn't bother me anymore. I owned a Pioneer SC-LX82 before. I never could directly compare them, but I could swear the sound didn't change at all. I don't believe that Receiver do "Sound". They just amplify the Signal. As long they deliver enough power, they should not sound any different. My recommendation is, buy an HDMI 2.1 Oled if you play a lot of videogames. Plug all consoles or PC directly into the Oled and buy an affordable AVR like this Sony and send the audio over eARC to it. In this case it's an absolute nobrainer for this price tag, and you are future proof.

[@agentorange8530]

Just got mine setup and I noticed the receiver is only outputting the PS4 Pro in 1080p. I guess you can fix that by turning on Enhancement in the HDMI settings? I was thinking of just doing what you did and just plug the PS4 Pro into the TV. I was reading what someone else did and they stuck another HDMI to the second output to the tv's other HDMI input and run their game consoles through that so they don't have to keep changing to game mode. Have to fool around with it some more but don't wanna pull out the entertainment center again after hooking everything up, lol.

[@DanteBellin]

Agent Orange have checked the PS4 Pro system settings? If I remember right, you can set the PlayStation output to 1080p or 4K or auto... But I definitly recommend to plug the PS4 directly into the TV.

[@agentorange8530]

@@DanteBellin Yeah the PS4 Pro is outputting 4k. But it was the enhanced HDMI option in the receiver setting that fixed it.

[@DanteBellin]

Agent Orange glad you figured that out. Have fun!

[@djsoulfilter]

I bought a used Sony STR-DN 1030 at a really good price a few years ago and love it! I’ll eventually upgrade to an Atmos receiver but for now I’m content with my 1030 receiver.

[@danieldurnin959]

Great review. I’ve been using this for a couple of years. I paired it with a Wharfdale DX2 5.1 speaker kit and a couple of Polk RC60i ceiling speakers. I have it set up in a small room. (5 x3M, about 16x 9.5 ft). I absolutely love it. No space in this room for rear speakers, so no loss there for me. Definitely feels like a proper home cinema sound.

[@jeremyzavala773]

would this receiver pair well with Klipsch Reference speakers?

[@faux_hobo]

SONY STR-DN1080 vs STR-DH790?

[@RafaelMaia]

Did not think I would come out of this review with a new woven basket, but here we are.

[@spacedudey2k]

Owned this for nearly 1 year. Great AV RECEIVER. connected to Jamo Power 100’s from the 1980’s. Yamaha centre and subwoofer speakers from the 90’s and the 2 Sony Dolby ATMOS speakers. I have it connected to the Sony KD55 A8F OLED TV and did not experience any issues like you mentioned. I do however sometimes experience the AVR turning itself on randomly. There are others reporting this issue online also. Overall though I am very happy with the STR DN1080. And I got it on special for about $900. (In Australia RRP was $1399)

[@spacedudey2k]

Forgot to mention. The issues with your Sony OLED TV .... were you using a high speed premium HDMI cable?

[@xCyAx]

Hi Andrew. New subscriber here, I have been trying to find a STR-DN1080 for purchase here in Europe and it's been impossible to find. My friend had trouble getting one back in 2020, He's got paired with Jamo s809 5.1.2. It is amazing for dollby atmos at under 700€. Any other receiver you recommend besides this crazy machine? i found other youtubers saying Denon AVR-X1700H also 700€, but specs arent everything, and since your insight made my friend very happy, any information you can give me purchasing a new receiver in 2022 would be much apreciated. I also have bought recently a LG C1 55" with my poor PC speakers, Logitech z906 and i wan't to go beyond and get the right receiver and speakers. Thanks.

[@adikookida8885]

Hi.In which country you want to get this receiver?

[@NerijusKarmilcovas]

Is it powerful enough for klipsh 8000f ? For two Chanel listen and also for home cinema paired with other klipsh rears and centre speaker and sub

[@ZoomtechSLO]

I have the same question.

[@SamtheCanuck]

I have a Sony STR DN1040 and have no issues with the same speaker set up. Looking at getting this to use atmos.

[@mm-tg8oo]

I have this reciever and all Klipsch full range. Fronts are RP 8000f. Movies are loud and sound good.

[@JasonOldfield1838]

I can't see anybody that's worried about 8K right now looking at a $600 AV receiver. If you are, I would suggest that you have your priorities wrong. I just bought a refurbished Yamaha TSR-7850 for $350 just to get Atmos and 4K switching, and have no issue replacing it in a year or two with a better receiver to get me 8K and anything else that I deem that I "need" at that point in time...

[@teddriver_6021]

Good video. Well edited. More informative than most other reviews. Thanks

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@amritbedi9777]

sony str-dn1080 vs sony str-dh790 which one is better???

[@olzzon]

I wonder this too .

[@elmermoreno7681]

@@olzzon definitely 1080 I have both

[@olzzon]

@@elmermoreno7681 I bought the 1080 second hand with a good price , could not be more happier 🤜🏻🤛🏻

[@juancuchillamanuel]

a little late but i found out it draws 75 watts per channel. so its not that bad

[@kamilmagomedov2070]

Is that with all channels connected?

[@juancuchillamanuel]

@@kamilmagomedov2070 yes at 0.08% distortion.

[@kamilmagomedov2070]

@@juancuchillamanuel huh, that's way more than I'd expect Thank you

[@DanielMorales-qp8rf]

Is this rms or general?

[@juancuchillamanuel]

@@DanielMorales-qp8rf rms

[@markusgrim112]

Ordered the 1080 now paired with Jamo S803 Front Jamo S8 ATM Jamo S83 Center Jamo S801 back Jamo S810 Sub Cant wait to get it!

[@markusgrim112]

I thought of first going with KEF t series but when you said ”too bright” and also had the Jamos in the background. I went for the Jamos.

[@al201103]

I picked up the 1080 as an update to my very aging Yamaha 371 (to go with new Dali Oberon speakers). Went with the Sony specifically because it is widely touted as one of the best options for 2 channel stereo music listening as well as surround. Was not disappointed at all, it sounds fantastic. I would take a bit of issue with your statement that it's not particularly 'neutral', especially considering you are listening to it with the "Engineer" EQ. Engineer was "interesting" and I can see its appeal, but using "Front Speaker" to EQ everything to the Oberons provided a very balanced signature. I'm used to listening on fairly neutral headphones/earphones (Ananda/InEar Prophile 8S) and I know that what I get from the 1080 is very much along those lines. Super pleased with this, especially at the price (but would still be pleased if it was a couple hundred dollars more)

[@HiPlains1]

Man your right about that. I hooked the Sony to and old pair of Polk SDA SRS speakers. The receiver allows two sets of speaker wire to each speaker for bi amp configuration. The subs sound amazing. I"ve had very expensive class A stuff that sounds trash to this Sony. For two channel this is a great choice.

[@Lhondureno]

What receiver can play 4k at 120

[@majorusa]

Denon AVR 2020 range.

[@zaftra]

Budget he says.

[@chezchezchezchez]

I just bought it brand new for $150

[@thrills...697]

@@chezchezchezchez where at ?

[@isaacsykes3]

Great video, as always!! It's funny, because I have had two Sony 1040 AV Receivers since 2013 that I've been reluctant to upgrade from because they STILL sound really good, and I have not had any reliability issues from them outside of minor Airplay glitches that were resolved by a reboot. The thing that I wish Sony would have included in this receiver that you reviewed and the ones I own are Preamp outs, for power rating discrepancies you mentioned. Thanks again to you and your wife for yet another great video and I look forward to the next one.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Had the 1080 had at least stereo preamp outputs it likely would've been perfect (to me) for an AV receiver under, say, $800! That was among the only omissions I took issue with, though I kept it off my downsides list as for $499-$599 retail, I wasn't sure how realistic it was to expect them (preamp outs) given everything else the 1080 packs.

[@isaacsykes3]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews That definitely would have been something to celebrate. Sony knows better, at the minimum stereo preamp outs..lol. That said I will probably pick one up for my loft space and add a Bluesound node 2i(that costs more that the Sony receiver, Jesus!) a Roku premiere and call it a day. Additionally, (IYO) should source components cost more than AV preamps or receivers? Anyway thank you for all you do, be safe, and I look forward to the next video.

[@SuperCheesyMan]

I love mine, paired with Klipsch speaker and Atmos firing up. It sounds awesome Looking forward to the updated version with the latest technology for gaming

[@PrezidentHughes]

8K 🤣🤣🤣. Our cable providers can barely get proper 2K in their services and the streaming providers charge a bundle for their 2K content which you would think would be the basic standard by now at a very basic twice. 8K is a pipe dream. Basic Internet speeds can barely keep up with 2K! Maybe in 2030, but we are a long way from talking about 8K. Don't waste your money. I'm about to buy a 4K soon and I'm sure I've missed nothing over the past few years.

[@nelsonminator]

Is the dn1080 compatible with PS5?

[@alxleiva]

Not really, since your frame rate will be capped at 60fps

[@nelsonminator]

@@alxleiva I bought the Denon avr s760h... so, I'm covered! 👍

[@soarabove337]

@@alxleiva Hmmm... okay. Not correct. Just select "enhanced", then good to go.

[@MantiaRyche]

Use the optical output...

[@nelsonminator]

@@MantiaRyche optical doesn't have the same audio features as the HDMI

[@alexp6144]

I bought this receiver because of this review, super helpful and informative!..I must say I'm not disappointed 1 bit! The sound quality is something else! Especially for the price you pay! The only downside is in the UK/Europe it doesn't have chromcast built in. Thanks Andrew 👍🏼

[@TrumpetSAE]

I just got this one and it is amazing!!!!!!❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️... make sure you plug your HDMI into the correct inputs. For example, I actually plugged my gaming system into the "Game" input and the sound was NOT full...so I ended up plugging it into one of the "enhanced" inputs and WOW!...what a difference in sound. So I ended up renaming the SD/CD input as 4k Gaming lol. I don't understand why all of the inputs aren't enhanced sound instead of only the 2. I'm happy with this receiver. I leave my setup on 7.2 since it isn't a true Dolby Atmos set up option....it sounds great! Thanks for this amazing video.

[@thegrimyeaper]

I do remember reading in the manual that there are two hdmi inputs with "best sound" but never thought to actually use it for my Ps4. Gotta switch tonight!

[@TrumpetSAE]

@@thegrimyeaper it made a WORLD of a difference! Please let me know what you think. Make sure you assign that hdmi for sound and video. I believe it's default for only sound. But you'll notice a huge difference.

[@thegrimyeaper]

@@TrumpetSAE That was...odd. The first thing I noticed was that my rear speakers were way too loud all of a sudden. So I started auto calibration all over again and discovered that I hadn't clicked on "phase matching" ever. I'm pretty sure that button is magic, and it's a crime the auto calibration doesn't mention to turn that feature on after you've calibrated..! Things sound pretty dang good right now. Had this receiver for months and still getting fun surprises from it!

[@TrumpetSAE]

@@thegrimyeaper I am happy that you are rediscovering that receiver it has a lot of functions that I haven't explored myself but I love the experience that I am getting out of it. I just hate that all of the HDMI input aren't enhanced sound.

[@campbellmaclure7386]

Ahhh man I'm in Game!!! Great shout thanks mate

[@varanidguy]

I guess our definition of budget is much different lol. $600 for the receiver alone is too rich for my blood - keeps looking like sound bars are the best value for money.

[@conchobar]

Home theater Receivers have always ranged in price from $200 - $5000. So $600 solidly fits in the "Budget" region.

[@varanidguy]

@@conchobar that's a good point. And I know AV systems are capable of more than soundbars. But for $1100, the Samsung Q90R is looking pretty good, especially because it can do uncompressed audio.

[@HiPlains1]

You have no idea. This sounds better then stuff costing 4X more. This is truly the best value AV receiver on the market. Full stop.

[@HiPlains1]

@@varanidguy You know that USB slot on front of the Sony? Little secret.. it allows for Flac playback and sounds amazing. I believe it has Tital app as well for lossless streaming. Also has a optical audio cable input.

[@twistedmetal2290]

1100….budget

[@timur7381]

MSRP was $599 back in the sane days...

[@MIW_Renegade]

I've seen home theatre amps going for $5K+ so although it's not cheap, it's still on the budget end

[@SamtheCanuck]

It is. Current market issues don't change that is just the reality of supply being unable to meet demand due to various global issues at the moment.

[@googleuser1006]

The real budget is that TV I dunno what's wrong with this dude I sware the receiver cost more than that thing what is that a thing man so little 🤣🤣🤣

[@Jay19384]

Just got it... It's freaking awesome!!!!!!

[@soppingclam]

Glad you mentioned the actual wattage being outputted. Since we often order online and can't really check real power output in a store. Feel free to check these details with other units. . My movie room is all german but everything is so well made, no ripple, emf crap and the speakers receive perfect clean *power* and there is more not less if wanted. A quality product, while they are more expensive and wouldn't look at such brands for that reason but tend to under spec themselves just so people like myself to get a .. ahh glorious moment

[@shotgunmasterQL]

What I have always wondered is how Sony's 1080 and 590 compare to each other. STR DH590 is just in that budget class that dedicated audio nerds don't really care to review it, while 1080 is the higher quality darling that gets the attention as the "affordable high end like receiver". My old Yamaha receiver (from like the 80's) that I got with my dad's old speakers got leaky caps, and since the receiver wasn't high quality enough to make sense to repair, I decided on buying a modern receiver with modern benefits. Some of the stuff that you say about the auto calibration and sound seem to also apply on 590 (calibration was great, sound is a bit bright and punchy), but 590 seems to be a bit less powerful (claims 145w with the same 6Ohm BS), and it has severely cut down features to the point that its a very simple straightforward receiver with surprisingly good sound quality for the price. It feels like Sony first cut down on everything else than the internal components, if that makes sense, take everything non-essential out, like streaming apps and such. Even if I wanted a 1080, I wouldn't have been able to fit it in my setup, though. 590 was appealing because it was surprisingly slim, even slimmer than the old Yamaha (only very slightly, however), so it fit well in the spot. I have seen 1080 for a great price recently, but I really don't need it, since I don't even have a surround speaker setup, and my current speakers aren't power hungry at all. All that said, it makes me even more curious how the even more basic stereo version of this receiver fairs against these bigger ones?

[@christopherlewis3615]

This was out of stock in the uk and cought my eye when released. Managed to get hold of one second hand in brilliant condition and it's nothing short of amazing! Especially for occasional bedroom use. Very entertaining listen, and abit more shouty than the denons but in a pleasing way. It works flawlessly with all my other gear. Would definitely recommend. My only gripe is the ui is a little on the laggy side.

[@mdessureaults3]

Rocking this for nearly a year now, paired with all klipsch reference speakers, love it!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Nice!

[@joescott701]

I own the cousin receiver str dn 1040 that came to market in 2014. Dolby true HD which is a loss less object based codec. I would agree with everything you said especially about it having a punchy dynamic range. I'm running JBL studio series S312 mains S310 sides S 38 rears and S center. I also bought two 12 klipsch subs. The engineer mode does sound the best. My auto calibrate always works without fail. I recently bought a 75 Sony X900h 4k tv. I've owned a few brands now and feel the siny has a nice bright clear punchy sound to it

[@denizinan5895]

Fantastic review Andrew! I run the str-dn1080 with a pair of Q Acoustics 3050 floorstanding speakers and I can say it's way better than my previous setup with the Marantz NR1200, which I had to sell due to its dull and colorless sound. To my taste, it's not only a step-up in dialogue clarity, but outclassed a so-called mid-tier stereo receiver in music listening as well. I will definitely complement my set with a center and rear satellites soon.

[@aprildickerson2065]

Say what you will, I just bought a 72 inch 4k tv and plugged 2 polk T 15 and a T35 center and it flat out is loud and pretty awesome man! Anything more you are just being and audiophile but this thing jams dude!!

[@BryanRuby]

You mentioned the Marantz that you're keeping around for 2.0. How acceptable is the SONY STR-DN1080 for 2.0? You asked which features is important to me in an AV/Home Theater receiver...I'm always looking for that Holy Grail of a entry-mid level receiver/amplifier that does both stereo (2.0, 2.1) and surround sound (5.1 and above) well. Is this Sony it? If not, recommendations?

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Sony is good for 2 channel, definitely more power and control down low in comparison to the Marantz. That said, the Yamaha I’m reviewing next is shaping up to be something special.

[@raydm4015]

The 1080 is very good for 2 channel!

[@Alex-me8od]

Great vid! Would be awesome to see how this receiver pairs with the entry level Q acoustics home theater package 3050i towers,3010i surouds, 3090i centre and QB12 sub concurring your glowing review of there more expensive towers.

[@greatpix]

i was hoping the STR-Dn1080 had fixed the 'no sound' error when using the set-up mic. This was the same hair-pulling error I got almost every time with the older model 1040. I even bought a new Sony microphone thinking that was where the error was coming from. It wasn't. Since you also experienced it I have to say it's an ongoing problem Sony has been unable to fix all these years. BTW, the 1080 has not been updated for several years now. Has Sony given up on the home AV receiver market? Who knows. Despite it's nagging problem with the set-up mic my 1040 model was performing very well with video and audio. After an accident with my unit that left it battered looking, but still performing as good as new, I decided a few years ago to buy a Denon X2300 for its ability to output Dolby Atmos and even with the Denon receiving glowing reviews and being rated better than the newer Sony equivalent model I liked the sound of the older Sony better.

[@georgealvarez8967]

Good day to you guys. This receiver is on my radar, I currently have a Sony STR DH 520 with pioneer FS 52 and an SVS center but for fun I do occasionally roll in my focal 936. Good sound but my hesitation is the lack of pre-out even for the main speakers ( focal can dip below 3 ohm). I enjoy your channel and agree a 50 watt rating should not scare you away. Be safe and thanks again.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thanks for watching!

[@Krommer1000]

This is my receiver, and I love it.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

That's awesome! Thanks for watching.

[@neilskull2373]

Had my Sony DN1080 Amp for about 8 months as needed to upgrade my Much loved Pioneer 5.1. I have a large Yamaha subwoofer and 2 front bookshelf Wharfedale Diamond speakers with Yamaha satellites. I have to agree the setup was super easy and the arc worked fine with my Sony Bravia. The sound is very powerful as you say but not at the expense of dialogue, which is crisp and clear. This is not a high end system by any means but a great upgrade to Atmos, with more Dynamic sound and even my home made Atmos speakers add an extra dimension which im surprised i prefer over DTS HD output! so the back catalogue is coming back out so i can enjoy all those blockbusters again.

[@Boorock70]

Love your honest & unbiased reviews Andrew (and Kristy). U really are the best. Thanks for breaking the STR-DN1080 hype :) I'm also a Yamaha fan, actually a proud owner of the Aventage RX-A1080 AVR and it has an unrivalled sound both in stereo & movies... Yamaha is a different level, period.

[@raydm4015]

Uhh it's like 3 times more expensive.. Have you even heard the Sony?

[@Boorock70]

The entry level Yamahas RX-V 485, 585 & 685 will kill Sony in an instant. Aventage line is the high-end, I wasn't comparing it to Sony. Even the big boys (Marantz, Denon, Onkyo) can't compete with Yamaha's Aventage line...

[@ruifaias8258]

@@Boorock70 you are wrong... the avantage series are just rebaged versions of the RX-V series with a litle more sugar... sonic wise, they are identical. and as said, the sony costs 3 times less and have the same performance, sonic wise. just read the reviews. the competition are still releasing new models and the sony still smoke them with a 3+ year "old" AVR.... i'm not a sony fan, but they really make a nice product with this one

[@Boorock70]

@@ruifaias8258 you're definitely not know what you're talking about. Aventage has nothing common with the lower RX-V series except YAMAHA bagde. I've used several RX-Vs and upgraded to Aventage RX-A1080 lately. It's different as night & day. Not even close... As I told in my previous messages even the RX-V line will kill SONY, sorry!

[@AndyCollins68]

Great video! I have the Sony STR-DN1070 with Triangle Plaisir Kari 5.1 speakers and I thought it sounded bright. Crystal clear vocal and movies are a thrill but my vinyls have no real depth. But everything is exactly as you say -a real breeze to use! The one thing I wish the receiver could do is allow me to watch a 'fireplace' on TV and play Spotify at the same time.

[@ronaldmeyer1314]

Thanks!!! I am buying this one for my older components and it has enough in-puts and out puts for me. And reasonable price.

[@jonasohrfeldt1495]

I would however put Sony STR-DH790 as a better value. I Was choosing between the 1080 and the 790. The 790 is the best bang for the buck in my opinion.

[@simoncritchley2223]

I bought this Sony over lockdown and I'm made up with it and I would check the settings as I have it running with 7.1.2 with the surround back channels being virtual. And it works very well. Also you can have it set the speakers to the best position. Can't really find any problems with this receiver for the price.

[@MichaelLivingston-me]

I really liked mine right up until the time we had a nearby lightning strike. Like you, I really enjoyed the features and the audio quality as well as the in screen easy to use setup of this receiver. I also owned the Hisense 65" TV you raved about. I bought mine before seeing your positive review. The butchers bill from that usec electrical spike ... All HDMI and bluetooth section, toast. Two connected HDMI TVs • 65" Hisense, & Sharp 42" HDMI inputs fried. 12 inch KLH subwoofer, plate amplifier disabled. I'm now watching you on a 43" Sony Bravia TV connecting audio through optical to a 2004 Denon 5.1 model 484 receiver. It actually has a very nice discrete AB amplifier with moderate output of 80 watts RMS into 8 ohms. That feeds a pair of Polk T50 towers along with bookshelf Polk Monitor 40 series II, speakers. Those were the height channels but now just run in parallel with the towers. I actually get good base but I've assembled my own 10" slot vented sub with 150 watt plate amplifier. I'm happy, but only miss the large & beautiful Hisense TV. I very much enjoy watching your videos.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

That's a bummer. Thank you for watching, Michael.

[@sideswipe1261]

Very glad I found your channel! And this video in particular. I’m just a few bucks shy of getting a Sony STRDH-590 (5.2 channel; for room size and wallet size, 5.1 is plenty, and my trusty old Linaeum’s with their first-pole tweeters still sound gorgeous). I still learned a lot watching your 1080 review! Please take no personal offense to my following comments, but when you mentioned “8k”, I felt I should chime in. To be blunt, 8k is 100% pure marketing; just another higher “k” number to keep people upgrading every 3-4 years for bragging rights with zero benefit. I have no doubt the machines can output “8k”, but what too few people have stopped to think about is: “what is the human limit of eyeballs and brains to actually process what we see? What’s the max our minds can process?” And the answer is well below 8k! I get spammed for saying this all the time, to which I have 2 replies: 1. Try bacon flavored Spam, it’s a game changer, and 2. Don’t ask the Internet, ask Board Certified professional Optometrists. Or 12. Humans simply cannot process 8k video. Think of it from the industry’s angle: they’ve been running out of tricks (burning through them too fast) to provide tech with a reason for people to continually upgrade every few short years. They’re running out of rabbits to pull out of their hats. No more rabbits = no more physiological reason for consumers to upgrade = Out of Business. Again, not personal, but when people realize tech has maxed out our brains, reviewers will have nothing to review = dead magazines and streaming channels. I’m not sure what these big corporations will do to tread water aside from adopting the nefarious “built-to-break” philosophy. Regardless, nobody on earth can see in 8k. For early adopters trying to defend your “small-balls” A/V Porsche purchase, don’t hassle me. Don’t trust the Internet. Ask actual board certified practicing eye doctors. Get mad at *them* because you kids jumped the gun to show off your imperceptibly awesome new equipment. Not me! 👍

[@Donly1pt]

Features aside (internet connectivity and apps) how does the STR-DH790 compare to the STR-DN1080? Would the sound quality be equivalent?

[@lyndonramchatesingh105]

Hey Andrew which receiver did u like more Sony straight dn1080 vs Yamaha RX v6a please let me know thanks

[@mack6606]

Love my 1080 and my 2ea polk s55 and s20 w/ sony shake speakers from the x10. I have them all in front. Had them about a year, listen to a lot of death metal and the sound is Unbelievably crisp and punchy for small speakers.

[@DavidCarleno]

Thanks for the detailed review! Regarding the need to pair this with the right loudspeakers, would you recommend this unit with the Sonance in-ceiling 5.1 system?

[@zman-ru3yf]

Love your content man. Keep it coming! Would you think Klipsch 620f speakers would go well with this receiver? I hope so as I have already ordered them lol

[@vaspetrol]

Can't wait for review of the Yamaha RX-A3080, I've had mine for 6 months now running with KEF R Series. Keep up the cool reviews dude 😊😊👍👍

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thanks, will do!

[@vaspetrol]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews .😎

[@ROYALUSTER]

Would love to see your Yamaha RX-A3080 review.

[@TheOttacat]

Great review and thanks for the clarification on the 7 vs. 9 channels when it comes to Atmos. Not a feature I think I'll ever use but it's good to know. I have the model below this one and I've been thinking of upgrading. Reviews like this are helpful as it's actually made me realize how good is the one I have.

[@balajiachartamraparni9067]

Excellent detailing...you have almost convinced me to buy this home theatre in my budget. Thankyou

[@anaraghayev8508]

Thank you for your great work. The presentation is super. Before buying, I wanted to clarify the sound from the ceiling on the JAMO S 8 ATM is felt. Is the sound from it voluminous or from the ceiling?

[@AC_Milan1899]

Legendary receiver

[@XDefinitive]

I got it 1.5 years ago for $280 on blackfriday, I just got it because of the price I had a denon and an onkyo at the same time sold both and kept it. Don't remember the model numbers one of them was a year old. Running Goldenear tirtons on it 5.2.0, and it's doing great, Great Review btw thanks.

[@raydm4015]

I have this receiver hooked up to a pair of €10.000 Sony SS-NA2ES speakers. (Same speakers seen in its setup menu) The sound is incredible.

[@jruepetty4530]

Once again andrew you hit the nail on the head . These receivers sound great . I love a bright sound and I did have issues with that Sony oled tv

[@mikeg5350]

Love all the videos Just upgraded my older techniques prologic reciever to a 6 year old Denon avr s700 I know it's still behind the times but what are your impressions. I payed $100 Canadian I like the fact it has WiFi and Spotify streaming Best Regards

[@rizalahmad4207]

OMG! There it is.. the 300 is in the house y’all!! Can’t wait for the review.

[@haroldsvoyage8912]

Love your review. I’m in the market for a new receiver and this vid helped a lot. Thank you.

[@K_R_one]

I have been using the 1080 for two years. I loved it. Its is a great entry level receiver. Coming from a Vizio sound bar. Much better quality sound. But I'm ready for an upgrade. Thinking about the Sony flagship receiver 9.2 DA58000ES

[@noppakuntheneat5547]

Hi Andrew, thank you for your great reviews. I have a couple of questions and hope you can help me with. I have the STR-DN1080 since 2018. And want to go back to two loudspeakers, specifically B&W 702 Signature or 703 S3. Can the Sony cope with the B&W? Which B&W would be your weapon of choice? I want to use the loudspeakers very brought. From listening to very variable music genres to watching movies. Looking forward to your reply. Thank you in advance!

[@thoughtsofapeer]

The problem is not 8K, but 4K @120fps w/ HDR and VRR. And I guess you'd need an 8K AVR for that.

[@shawnwacek6791]

I just bought this receiver I'd love it it's very well done I, totally agree with you it's very very bright I had to fix the trouble on some parts of the sound quality but then once you get it just right oh my God I got my Sony receiver off Amazon for $448 even such a deal bought matching Sony surround sound speakers to go with it and two of the Sony subwoofers to match to I have the floor standing Sony speakers that match and the bookshelves in the back for the surrounds I all I have left to get is the Atmos enabled speakers to put on top or the front

[@TheBlazemeister]

Great informative video, thank you! I was researching the Sony STR-DH790 before watching this. Is there a significant difference between these two units other than the wattage and WiFi/Chromecast, and does the extra wattage and features justify the $250 price difference between the units? Building first home theater and want to keep budget low without sacrificing too much quality.

[@Maxim.Teleguz]

Did you ever find out?

[@TheBanterLounge]

I’ve got the 790 and it’s great for a small to medium room. Have paired it with the canton satellites. 👍🏽

[@thecarrotmonster8827]

This was my first and only AV receiver to date, I love it and it's served me brilliantly, in a 5.1.2 setup, but I have to admit I would like a bit more warmth in the midrange for dialogue and music, as I'd like a turntable for my living room aswell. So I can't decide if I should swap out the receiver for a Marantz cinema 60 or upgrade my Prime Towers to the Ultra Tower's which I've coveted for years now, and would match the Ultra centre I have. In an ideal world where I wasn't just a Highway Maintenance guy I could afford both but I can only do one or the other atm, what would you guys recommend?

[@robmyers4512]

Get a phono preamp project and Cambridge do good cheep ones

[@starkiller18]

I see you have good taste in music. the scissor sisters are great. I have been planning on getting a new receiver but cant decided if i should go with a system that supports 7.2 and atmos or a 5.2 system. it basically comes down to if i think i will add more speakers and atmos in the future or not.

[@donjaun540]

Super awesome review. Did you have trouble pushing 7.2?

[@adamburke8117]

Thank you for this review of this Atmos home Theater systems. 🙏 for letting us know about the channel output and the number of speakers will diminishes the power to each channel. 🚪 what kind of stain/finish (gloss, semi gloss or satin). 👀ing to lessen the reflections in my room 😎