Part 4 - Sony STR-AZ7000ES AV Receiver - Inhouse Review - Sound Comparison - Moving a speaker

Part 4 - Sony STR-AZ7000ES AV Receiver - Inhouse Review - Sound Comparison - Moving a speaker. This video continues our analysis of the Sony STR-AZ7000ES AV Receiver with more details about the Sony Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX (D.C.A.C IX). We purposely move a speaker to see how good the Sony technology is at fixing poor placement along with the Sony 360 Spatial Sound Mapping. The video concludes with our analysis of the sound quality vs. all other brands and models we have tested in-house over the last year. Also covered is the Sony Music Center application and the speed the AZ7000ES takes to power on to an operational state.
Part 1 video:
Sony STR-AZ7000ES AV Receiver - Inhouse Review part 1 - Overview vs Marantz, Onkyo, Yamaha
• Sony STR-AZ7000ES AV R...
Part 2 - Sony STR-AZ7000ES AV Receiver - Inhouse Review - Speaker Configuration and Calibration
• Part 2 - Sony STR-AZ70...
Part 3 - Sony STR-AZ7000ES AV Receiver - Review - User Exp, Sound Modes 360 Spatial Sound Mapping
• Part 3 - Sony STR-AZ70...
Sony New 2023 8K AV Receivers - STR-AZ7000ES, STR-AZ5000ES, STR-AZ3000ES, STR-AZ1000ES, STR-AN1000
• Sony New 2023 8K AV Re...
#sony #hometheater #receiver #8k #ripewave

[@dalemansukh]

This is exactly what I always wanted with receiver reviews...there was never any cumulative comparisons and charting. And I don't think anyone else is going this deep into the features and user experience.

[@ripewave]

I am glad this approach is serving you well. It is how I would like to see products compared. I worry that I get too deep and limit my audience to just the enthusiasts, but that is the group I am aiming to support. -Jon

[@wezzman1]

Great review mate, your objective assessment is why you are 1 of 2 on KZbin for objective reviews. You for AV gear and Floss carter for small tech(phones). You are the only one that I've heard that distinguished the difference between Sony 360 and actual sound quality, all the other reviewers (got over excited) are mistaking sound quality for magic that Sony 360 does. Absolute top man👍🏽👍🏽. You summed up the 2 in the end perfectly.

[@ripewave]

Thanks for those kind remarks. I really had to think about how to articulate what I was observing. Ultimately I realized that the spatial aspect was independent of the sound quality and should be the key point to communicate. Thanks again. -Jon

[@ranakirti]

Thanks! Sir, I learned a ton from you. it's made my purchase decisions easy without being able to demo a lot of this stuff. i encourage others to also support Jon for bringing us such informative and valuable content.

[@ripewave]

I appreciate your endorsement and donation. Thanks so much. That really helps this channel. -Jon

[@kman9387]

I have to Sony AZ 5000es. This is my 5th AVR /processor. The channel separation and immersive audio amazing! I find that the AFD does a spectacular job of taking 2.0, 5.0, 5.1 and below and making my system sound better than standard Atmos and DTSx. It places sound in different speakers at different times during a movie with subpar audio and making it sound exciting and precise! I tried processors and other AVR's and still can't believe how immersive and separation of channels this Sony performs 😮 I completely agree that Sony could do better with the app and display on the front of the unit as well as the on screen displays. No product is perfect these days but the sound that comes from this Sony is so close to perfect, especially if anyone is using it for Home theater. AWESOME review 👏👍 Keep up the spectacular content!

[@ripewave]

Thanks for that firsthand account. Seems we are aligned on several points. Especially the “no product is perfect” comment - so true! -Jon

[@tadzius5829]

Not sure if you tried out other receivers, and sounds like you're very happy with it for movies, but how is its musicality for 2-channel listening compared to, say, the Marantz Cinema 40, Denon X4800H, or Onkyo RZ50 or 70?

[@kman9387]

@@tadzius5829 I owned Denon before I got my Onkyo Rz820. They were both very good for music and did wonderful for movies. Funny thing is I haven't tried any music lately ( due to a change in job 🤦) but what I can say is that the Sony AZ 5000es has dimension and channel separation i have never experienced. I have demoed other AVR's and a few processors ranging from Anthem and Emotiva but none sounded half as good as this new Sony. I sure hope to tune it to music soon 🤞 Because my Focal speakers perform breathtakingly with music.

[@mivanp2185]

This is one of the reasons I went for the latest sony receivers because of the speaker relocation as my viewing room rears are positioned up and away from my back wall because of limited seating and it does a great job of the overall sound relocation.

[@rubinder2797]

Great review, I learn a lot from your channel.

[@ripewave]

Thanks for the donation. I am glad the content is helpful and that you are here. -Jon

[@sinfronterascommunications6506]

Thank you for providing all of these wonderful videos. Hope your subscribe count 📈

[@ripewave]

I appreciate your support. I would like to hit 10K subscribers this year. It is possible as views are highest as we head into winter season for many who are looking to spend more time indoors. -Jon

[@garykarczewski6678]

The bass is a bit heavy and Sony really doesn't have base management at the level of Dirac. However, in my room with my SVS SB4000 I use the PEQ software in the SVS for tweaking which is great. I think if you have a sub which doesn't have much built in control like SVS one would need to consider utilizing a Mini DSP with REW for your powered subs. Dirac does a great job for this but at a cost and of course strong knowledge on how to use it. For most people the Sony makes it very close. Yes you can reduce the volume on either your sub or use a minus db cut on the sub itself within the Sony which is what I did initially but I will apply the PEQ setting from SVS when I get them.

[@ripewave]

Perfect answer to that limitation within the Sony. For those expecting the Sony to do it all, it is important to point out. The SVS subs and MiniDSP can provide the compensation required with good results. With my A/B/C switch I had all channels set to the Sony except for the subwoofer which I set to the RMC-1 signal of the same source. This blended well and sounded great - fixed the issue. Sorry I didn’t mention. -Jon

[@michaelburton5198]

Wow!!!! Wonderful Job As Usual!!! Bless To Have Someone Like U With The Breakdowns! I Would Love If Possible For You To Get Your Hands On The New "Denon AVRX6800H" And To See 👀 @ The End, What Top Tier Would You Put It In??? I Greatly Appreciate The Work You Put In For Us Conumers!!!!! Thank 😊!

[@ripewave]

The Denon AVR-X6800H is on my list to review. As I don't have a relationship with Denon, I have to wait until release. I am hopeful that this will be a notch higher then the AVR-X4800H, plus more channels, DTS:x Pro, etc. -Jon

[@jackcarlson7389]

Thanks!

[@ripewave]

Thanks so much for your support. Glad the content compelled you to send a donation. -Jon

[@tstfam]

Wow, really in depth review. TBH, if you created a condensed version that basically was 8:15 -> end of this video and sped up the speed to 1.5x, you'd probably get a lot of clicks. Or, even a youtube short that is just your chart ranking all of them. At the end of the day, that's what most people want to know.

[@ripewave]

Good suggestion. I have though about releasing condensed versions for a wider audience. Cuts to the highlights and point to the full version if they want to experience the full review. Could call it “Ripewave XPress” or “Ripewave Top Picks”. Thanks for the suggestion. -Jon

[@TedAnkrum-ry7vm]

Sony states that the 5.1.5.3 speaker configuration (3 front low's and 1 top front center, no rear surrounds) is the reference configuration for 360 Reality Creation. I'd love to hear about the results from using such a unique speaker configuration. Seems like Sony has prioritized the front sound stage over the rear in configuring 360 RC. Since we humans have evolved to prioritize sounds from the front, this seems to be a reasonable decision, but I'd really like to hear a report on it. I've got the speakers already set up for this, but I've held off on purchasing the AZ7000ES until the reports on Hiss and random reboots are resolved.

[@mircomeser7217]

Nice review! Would love to hear what exactly the 360 Spatial mapping does for movies and how it sounds ,,immersion'' wise compared to receivers who dont have it or receivers with Auro3D.

[@ripewave]

Great questions and I feel that I need to explore further to fully address. In general, the 360 Spacial Mapping will make the sound stage wider and more enveloping then standard immersive formats such as Atmos and dts:x, which this Sony model also supports. Atmos and dts:x decoders are still used when the 360 Spatial Sound Mapping is enabled. For example the Dolby decoder will determine which information will go to what channels. The Sony 360SSM takes that standard signal and determines how that signal will “map” to speakers in your system. This unique mapping creates a more spacious result. I wouldn’t say that Sony 360SSM is a replacement for Auro-3D which Sony do not support (no plans to currently). So if Auro-3D is your goal - you will need to look to another brand. Auro-3D is often preferred to Dolby and Dts:X decoders. This solution enhances standard Dolby and dts:x as well as other source formats. -Jon

[@mircomeser7217]

@@ripewave Thank a lot for the answer. Auro and 360ssm both try to create some kind of immersive sound bubble. I just wonder which is more convincing and what the differences are. Hard to find people who tried both with dedicated set ups since, as you said, the Sony receivers don’t have both.

[@AlmightyGTR]

Thank you for such a detailed review John. Loved it! I think you are spot on on the spaciousness part. After this, I just ended up returning my a8a, (because it was having issues with decoder going off when I would change channels etc.), but I was waiting for your review before I pick up the Sony. Prior to returning the Yamaha, I did some A-B comparisons in my room, and I couldn't agree more with your there. However, I didn't notice the richness change much, might be given the speakers that I am using. Is there something specific that I should have been looking for, to notice the richness change? Just for some additional info on my test, I compared it without YPAO, and without enabling Sony's audio profiles (flat, engineer, etc.), and I am running a complete set of ML XT 2023 series speakers. I will look forward to your thoughts.

[@tstfam]

I'm very close to pulling the trigger on the Sony. Did you do it? Are you happy that you did?

[@AlmightyGTR]

@@tstfam I am. Sound fidelity on this device is pretty good. Pairs quite well with my speakers. There are some software bugs, but nothing major so far.

[@pocoyo500]

Thank you again for the very detailed video. And a question: After determining that this Sony receiver is more spacious oriented sound. Which type of speakers would better match it? Is it a dome tweeter that emphasis spacious or horn tweeter that will balance the specious sound that the Sony is striving for? Would be awesome to try mix and match speakers with Sony's new technology.

[@ripewave]

Glad you liked the video. Good question. A speaker with a wider sound stage is going to place emphasis on the wider sound stage. A speaker that is more focus would lessen the affect. So you need to determine how spacious you want to get. -Jon

[@BobFrostV]

Thanks for the informative videos! You mention having an a/b switch to swap between receivers. It seems complicated because you have 11 channels and hdmi in/out. What are you using for that, if you don't mind me asking?

[@mateuszkaflowski3827]

Love your amp diagram with all comparition. Very helpful. Are you going to test cheaper Sony amps like STR-AZ5000ES? Is it similar in sound quality?

[@ripewave]

It is my understanding that the STR-AZ5000ES is exactly the same less a few channel so I don’t feel I need to bring it in for comparison. Pick based on your channel needs. -Jon

[@mateuszkaflowski3827]

@@ripewave Thank you. So there should not be the difference like between Marantz 40 and 50?

[@FURognar]

Seems to me that the "Richness" category might have a lot to do with bass integration. Do you think a MiniDSP with the Multi Sub Optimizer would improve its richness?

[@ripewave]

I think so. I used a MiniDSP with my 1998 vintage Sony TA-E9000ES processor and it was great. So I could wire that one up in series with the output. It should already be configured for my subwoofers and their placement. I will add, that if I set all the A/B/C switches to the Sony STR-AZ7000ES, except for setting the subwoofer switch to the Emotiva RMC-1, it sounded very nice. So except similar results. -Jon

[@user-xp6zj7xq8k]

Hi Jon, Where do you put the Onkyo RZ-70 receiver in your graph? And still waiting for your test about Arcam AVR 21/31 and Anthem MRX 1140😉 Your information is always gold. Thanks

[@ripewave]

The RZ-70 comes after this series. I can’t add until I can hear for myself and A/B/C compare against my references. As for the Arcam and Anthem receivers I am not currently planning for those. Those are derivatives of the models I tested with the addition of amplifiers albeit the Anthem has lower quality DACS then their processors. I need to have better test plans for amplifiers to do that review justice. I believe that from a functional standpoint those reviews would be very similar. So conducting the amplifier analysis well is key to successfully reviewing those. -Jon

[@user-xp6zj7xq8k]

@@ripewave thanks for your return

[@nsinghc2799]

Please do a review of the X8500HA unit which is also a 13.2 channel AVR. I'd love to see how it does in comparison to this unit at similar price point but very slightly more powerful and Audyssey room calibration. For the Sony, I think the better spaciousness makes complete sense because of how good it is at placing the speakers in one's room but ends up short on richness because of the amplifications (SINAD score for this unit per Audioholics is only 90 in comparison to the Denon 8500H's whopping 103! The under performance plus the lack of setup clarity, the odd choice of room calibration software and modifications afterwards (not able to adjust volumes output on each speaker?) and the non-existential output information makes it a bit of a deal breaker in comparison to what Denon does. (Denon throws the sink in with both their software and hardware). Only thing hurting them is the outrageous prices and limiting to one 8K input on older models.

[@ulises3113]

Hello, thsnk you for ehergy sns especially for sharing your work. I feel you are not as much surprised as you expected with 360 sound. When I see your graphic I see onkyo rz50is really well placed compared to the others. I had the auro3d on denon 4500h( only 2d). I really liked, however the onkyo rz50with no valibration sounded, for me better, compared to auro3d on the denon 4500h, the soundstzge was really bigger too. What appteciated on the auro3d was the center speaker but using the onkyo's voice option I found it compensates the absences the auro 3d on the rz50. My question is, is it woth spending 3200 dollars when I can jave an onkyo rz50 for 1100dollars even less‽ I think the higher the price is the less the differences are on quality sound. I think too that if an amplifier sounds good with not calibration, these all sound formats can bring some improvements but nothing revolutionary.

[@ripewave]

I believe that the Onkyo RZ50 is real unique as it delivers sound quality that usually costs much more. You have discovered this too. In most cases it is better to save the money. Returns do diminish as you spend more. -Jon

[@DavidCNavas]

Thanks, this was great, I assume you had none of that hissing that some seem to complain about when on 360SSM. Your positive review is unfortunate as I had practically decided to wait on Denon's 6800. The 7000 is large, heavy, and without bass control which is important as I was planning on buying a couple of Hsu ULS-15 mk2 which have almost no built-in adjustments. Now I have to rethink! Well, good for Sony, not great for me I guess. Decisions, decisions!

[@dewey79]

You should get it! Fortunately, I did not have such a problem. I’m sure it is frustrating for anyone who did get such a unit. Sound quality is outstanding so I hope the problem was corrected on any bad units.

[@ripewave]

Interesting debate. I feel the Denon X6800h has its own benefits. Channel-wise these are similar. The Sony will give your its unique 360 Spatial Sound Mapping and a very simple setup and calibration process. However, the Denon X6800 is going to provide better bass management (up to 4 subwoofers vs 1 with no bass management), Auro-3D support and more flexible room calibration tools Audyssey and Dirac that can be fine tuned and not just a blind auto function. Both support DTS:x Pro - which is not common or available at a lower cost. You will need to weigh the benefits that are the most important to you. Until I can hear the Denon X6800 I can only guess it will be of similar sound quality. -Jon

[@DavidCNavas]

​@@ripewave Yep. Also Sony with their center-channel lift, Denon with analog inputs and AM radio. Lots of minor details that play into mostly psychology and partially really specific use-cases. Dirac will come at a premium, and it's unclear if ART will be ported to it, but it's also true that the Denon is likely to go on sale later next year, so I suspect long-term the pricing will be a wash. Quality of 6800 still an open question given it hasn't shipped, as you say. I can sadly make the case for both.

[@mohdrozakhiismail7273]

​​@@ripewave, hi Jon, good day. Hope u can do test on the Denon x6800h in near future(very soon) so that i can see where it will be/goes in the 'golden ratio' graph of yours 😃 ...compare to others.

[@devansnj]

I hope that you get an Integra DRX-8.4 to test in the near future. After buying and returning the Yamaha A6A and Denon X4800H, I went on a search for the Onkyo RZ70 to replace my Onkyo RZ800 that has served me well for 8 years. I ended up getting the Integra DRX-8.4 and have been blown away, even before configuring with DIRAC Live as I've only had it for 2 days. I feel it would likely slot on much higher than the RZ50 in your quadrant.

[@mikeschmidt2339]

Why did u return the 4800h

[@francoisbarth9462]

..and why you returned the A6A ? Tks

[@devansnj]

@@mikeschmidt2339 Returned the 4800H because it seemed objectively less of a receiver than that of the outgoing RZ800. It exhibited noise, both when turning on the receiver (clearly in the amplification section) and a low-level hum in the amplified speakers when on with no audio. The calibrated audio was only good, not better than the prior receiver, not as full or rich of a sound; sound modes were generally more limited to my 8-y/o receiver, etc. If I were coming from an entry-level receiver, I suspect the 3800H and 4800H would be a great upgrade, however compared to an, at the time, nice mid-range like the RZ800, it didn't meet my expectations.

[@devansnj]

@@francoisbarth9462 I really wanted to love the A6A, and likely could have if I wanted to calibrate from scratch and tinker to my hearts content; however, YPAO is basically the same level of room calibration as that of my outgoing RZ800. The config menus leave a lot to be desired and the interface feels dated, which I have heard from others, though thought the quality of the receiver would make up for it. It was measurably slower with input switching and struggled with compatibility with all of the connected devices, often taking half a minute or so to finally be usable. In fact, my impression of the Integra DRX-8.4 is that it is about the same quality as the A6A (maybe even A8A) with better config all around, faster switching, far superior room calibration (both the Integra calibration and the included DIRAC Live). I'm suspect, I would be as happy with the Onkyo RZ70 or Pioneer variant, though for a little more, the Integra has it all, with the ability to expand as needed.

[@ripewave]

I have the flagship Onkyo/Pioneer/Integra models slated for my next series. This one will be interesting and has potential. Your report of the Integra version has me more anxious to experience firsthand. Thanks for sharing. -Jon

[@arndtbc]

Would the Marantz Cinema 50 do better in the chart if you add external amps? Would it make tier 2?

[@ripewave]

Most of my testing is with 100% external amps. I use the same amps and speakers with each model to focus on the processor differences. The Cinema 50 was rated tier 2 using that reference setup. -Jon

[@mattgiunt]

Excellent detailed review but im still on the fence since my Yamaha 2080 is so good. I assume you didn't run into the problems people are having on the forum with 360 hiss and loud pops and restarts. Scariest one is the users who experienced loud shotgun pops that they claimed put their speakers in danger with its loudness. When you explained how the receiver dealt with a misplaced speaker, was it the turning on of the spatial 360 that corrected the sound ? I may just take a chance with this after I see if yamaha has anything in the pipeline at CES. I think this review will get you a lot of new subscribers since I saw it this morning reposted in the Sony Receiver section of the AVS Forum.

[@kman9387]

I have the 5000es, no hissing or popping, No noise. It's extremely immersive and spacious!

[@ripewave]

Thanks for tuning in and the kind words. The speaker virtual repositioning is separate from the 360 Spatial Sound Mapping. The reposition fixes the speaker placement while the 360SSM makes use of the speakers you have to give the illusion of a wider and more enveloping sound stage. No wild pops be some strange noises I need to investigate when first powering on or switching sources - not bad but there. -Jon

[@SkywalkerThompson]

Have you seen any issues with your unit with SSM 360 turned on? I had hissing issues on my AZ5000ES and sent it back because of this. You could really hear it when pausing content or navigating into system menus on my Apple TV 4k.

[@kman9387]

No issues on my new 5000es. Had it for 4 months zero noise or strange sounds.

[@SkywalkerThompson]

@@kman9387Very strange issue, glad yours is working.

[@ripewave]

I have heard strange noises but not in 360SSM mode. I need to track that down more before reporting. Usually at start up or when source isn’t playing. -Jon

[@kman9387]

@@SkywalkerThompson Thanks! I'm glad I didn't get a unit that had any issues. I have put my ears to every speaker when the unit is on and playing at various volumes and have no noise that is audible.

[@BrianGarside]

Jon a bit off topic but is the Integra line included in this chart or on another video > DRX 8.4 ?

[@BrianGarside]

I think I saw your reply that this is next in series. Cant wait.

[@ripewave]

Just wrapping up the Sony this week. almost time to order the Integra. -Jon

[@rafacq]

Thanks for the videos. Wish you had addressed the popular hiss sound when using 360SSM.

[@dewey79]

Mine does not have a hiss.

[@kman9387]

No hiss, popping or any noise.

[@ripewave]

Seems to be a common question - I will need to address in the next video. I am getting some hiss and other weird sounds, but it seems to limited to power up and input switching. I need to explore further before reporting. -Jon

[@rightslot1]

Can anyone talk about what the amp puts out at 4ohms? My SPEAKERS --- Martin Logan are 4 ohm SPEAKERS how much watt is putting out at 4 ohms?

[@djparra41]

In what way is this better than the Cinema 40??

[@mikeschmidt2339]

I’m currently using 4800h under 60 days so I’m not sold on it thinking of trying Sony or another rz50 if I can get a good one had 2 maybe a cinema 50

[@devansnj]

if you can find it and the price fits, the RZ70 or Integra DRX-8.4 (or Pioneer variant) might be a better option over the RZ50. I have my thoughts in reply to an earlier comment I made compared to the Yamaha A6A and Denon X4800H. I wasn't a big fan of the 4800H for my needs when compared to my 8-y/o Onkyo RZ800 or the new Integra DRX-8.4 that I just replaced the Onkyo with.

[@mikeschmidt2339]

@@devansnj ty

[@ripewave]

I believe the Denon 4800H will sound better then the Onkyo RZ50 and Cinema 50. Sony is more debatable but Sony bass reproduction is on the aggressive size and Denon more tame. I am anxious to review the Onkyo/Pioneer/Integra flagships as an option to the 4800h - will be interesting. -Jon

[@mikeschmidt2339]

@@ripewave thanks is it more tame with Dirac Live? Or is there a way to make it less tame

[@ripewave]

Dirac live improved the bass. I feel it is dull without Dirac live

[@garykarczewski6678]

Thanks John Here is a little support for all your work! I have a couple of question I would like to run by you. Is it best to do it here in comments, or email? Would you accept a short phone call?

[@ripewave]

Thanks for the generous support. I am happy to answer questions through any of those options. My channel email is [e-mail]. -Jon

[@garykarczewski6678]

Hi Jon, I will shoot you an email. Thank you for what you do.

[@ripewave]

I will watch for it. -Jon

[@BMWliterbikes4life]

Hey Jon , I don’t want to sound like a salesman lol wondering if you picked up that Denon 4800 that went on sale a week ago. I decided to wait for the 6800h that has a December release date. To my SURPRISE I found the A1H on sale yesterday for $3999 ! That’s $2500 off original price. Needless to say I pulled the trigger. Unbelievable!

[@ripewave]

First I have heard of an A1H selling for $3999. Sounds like a fantastic deal. Please keep us posted on how it sounds and operates. I had been standing clear as the original price was over my $5000 limit. Now it is in range. -Jon

[@BMWliterbikes4life]

@@ripewave I am with you on that. Was pleasantly surprised to find it especially from B&H photo. I feel they are one of the big retailers out there.

[@DavidCNavas]

You found the AH1 on sale at B&H for $4k?! Did they confuse the pricing with the PMA-A110 or something?!

[@BMWliterbikes4life]

@@DavidCNavas Lol I know right. It was a pre holiday sale or something. It’s still going, check it out !

[@BMWliterbikes4life]

@@ripewave The A1H from what I’ve been reading has the ESS DAC 9018 , what’s your opinion on that? Does it beat out the AKM DAC that was Denon’s go to DAC before the fire put a shortage on the market?

[@FURognar]

I saw an Audioholics video interview with a Sony rep who admitted that DCAC didnt do anything with the bass. So a MiniDSP and REW are in order here.

[@ripewave]

Thanks for confirming against the Audioholics video with the Sony rep. I saw that one a while back, very good. I forgot that detail. Glad you remembered. -Jon

[@williamc7367]

That is the problem with my 7000 is the lack of base management for my dual SVS PB-1000 Pros. Thankfully, they have DSP.

[@garykarczewski6678]

The only negative I have on this review is you are comparing HT Processors and AVR receivers together. All I got from that was that if you want cream of the crop solution for your HT, get a Processor! HT room which is symmetrical and treated very well I think is ideal. When I finish my construction of my dedicated media room I will go that route. When removing your findings of the processors the field narrows to be a bit closer in my opinion. I would of loved to moved towards the new Yamaha but it cost $800 more and I am sure the Sony is very close in Yamaha /video performance at 11 channels for $800.00 less and a better standard warranty.

[@FURognar]

I appreciate the fact that he's comparing receivers to processors. Get an indication of what you are and arent missing. From this and other assessments, I've come to the conclusion that features are far more important as the sound can be adjusted depending on what kind of EQ it includes. A receiver thats missing an essential feature is something you cant fix (see the Monoprice HTP-1 debacle. People are STILL waiting for DTS:X-Pro when D&M have had it for several years)

[@kman9387]

This Sony as well as the Yamaha do a flawless job of channel separation and immersive audio. The distant between Processors and AVR is so small that makes processors not a reasonable value anymore.

[@ripewave]

I am using a processor as I want to preserve my investment in amplifiers as I upgrade. Also, processors are often the safer choice for better sounding results - but not always. Some we have found to be unreliable or have other problems. There are some receivers I would choose over say an Arcam or an Anthem. My goal is to present it all and each who listen will make different selections based on what their goal is. -Jon

[@ripewave]

I am leaning in your direction. I started this journey with the belief that a processor would always be better. While usually true, I have learned the a receiver can sound as good or better. Ultimately the blend of feature sets can provide the deciding factor more so then being a particular type and sound quality difference can be overcome, to some degree with proper calibration. With that said, if better sound is easier to achieve with some models, I may prefer. -Jon

[@thelonewolf666]

so yamaha sounds the best?,

[@ripewave]

For a sound quality perspective it topped my list so far. -Jon

[@kingkobra1956]

After watching this review it seems the Sony AZ7000es is not that great.

[@ripewave]

I do like the STR-AZ7000ES. It has features not present on any other receiver; but it’s not perfect. I have yet to find the perfect receiver. Instead we select the one that matches our needs and preferences. -Jon

[@judgedeath2614]

Thanks!

[@ripewave]

I really appreciate the donation. Let me know if there is anything I am missing in these videos. --Jon

[@judgedeath2614]

@@ripewave Your review of this was stellar! Detail that no one else really covers. I just ordered the AZ5000 based on it!

[@ripewave]

I hope the AZ5000ES will serve you well. There is a lot to like that model. -Jon