Sony STR-DH190 Stereo Receiver Review: It's Actually Good!

Is the hype real? Let's find out....
Sony STR-DH90 Product Page: www.sony.com/electronics/av-r...
Andrew Robinson's STR-DH90 Review: • The Best BUDGET Stereo...
For cool behind the scenes info that you NEVER see on the channel: / zerofidelityhifi
- Speakers Used --
Q-Acoustics 3020i
Triangle BRO3
ELAC DBR62
Sound Artist LS3/5a
Harbeth P3ESR
Grado SR60

[@ZeroFidelity]

amzn.to/3qLcv41 Yep. That's an affiliate link to the Sony receiver. So... REAL TALK (PLEASE READ): I don't really care if you buy the Sony or not. I'm posting up this affiliate link because I signed up for the Amazon Partner program back in August and if I don't use it this month, I'll lose it forever. This isn't about money. This is about keeping an option open for the future. So go ahead.. use the link to buy a toothbrush or restock on some kitchen supplies for all I care! I just need some people to use this link and then I'll be good to go and will remove this post. THANKS!!!

[@pkal244]

No shame at all in affiliate links, especially for Amazon where you can buy any number of household items. If I remember to do it, I'll use a reviewer's aff link when I have to make any sort of big purchase online.

[@RoaroftheTiger]

Sean, You've got to eat. And getting compensated, for work, should not be a odd notion. All the Best ! ;-)

[@TorToroPorco]

Thanks for being transparent, it's noble of you. I'll have to buy you a beer next time you do a live stream.

[@louiesipes2257]

Done

[@ZeroFidelity]

@@GBR9794 An example of a paid review would be if Sony sent money to me in exchange for this video As stated right at the beginning of my review, literally within the first 2 minutes, I outright bought this.

[@worsly]

I bought one and love it. I use Fluance Signature speakers and I was amazed. What I like most about it......Sound Image is Fantastic. I'm not that big on heavy bass. What these products do is make you feel that the musicians are in the room with you. I'm 66 years old and as I listened I started to cry because as a audiophile on a budget this is what I have been searching for.....for a long time. I also heard instruments I never heard before. So to make sure this was really the case I brought my oldest son in the room to show him what I bought. I asked him what his favorite song was and I started to play it. His facial expession told me I indeed had something special here. And then he said to me...."Dad I hear instuments I never heard before in this song." The excitment I felt brought me to tears again. With close to 25,000 songs I have, this summer is truly going to be great. Next step is a new turntable. Been without one for 30 years. Thanks for all your videos, I enjoy them so much.

[@thisisnev]

For the typical user at this price point, spring-clip speaker connects are fine. They're not going to be spending $'000s on oily cables. Thanks for the review, Sean - we all started out with modest gear, and one day this Sony will no doubt be fondly remembered by a new generation of audiophiles as their first step into hi-fi!

[@ZeroFidelity]

Cheers!

[@hippydippy]

I just bought the Sony to hold me over until I get my Sansui 9090DB & Sasui Quad in the shop for repairs. Hooked it up last night & I honestly was blown away at how great it sounded for $160 shipped. Great smooth sound as well as wonderful separation. I couldn't be happier!

[@dmnddog7417]

I bought one of these units back in Feb 2020, and I've found it to be very reliable. I'm glad that you and Andrew have (finally) reviewed the unit and found it to be very good. I respect both your opinions and I find your reviews very insightful and informative. It makes me feel good that I made a good choice long before you both reviewed it. I have three devices permanently connected: an AT-LP120XUSB turntable, a Cambridge AXC35 CD player, and my Samsung TV to watch movies. I'm using the Triangle Borea BR03 speakers. I keep it on 24-7 so it's always warmed up and ready to play. I also keep the "Pure Direct" function enabled. Everything I've listened to with the above combination and settings sounds good to me. I agree that the speaker connections are annoying, but you only have to deal with them once. I may upgrade to something else sometime down the line, but for now it does the job very well. I generally don't replace equipment unless it's just not good, or it breaks down.

[@SeanSisco]

Despite having much more expensive gear, I won't lie...when it went on sale a few weeks ago for $99, I bought one for my garage and one for my Dad to create a listening space for him at his house. It is surprisingly great for the price and my Dad absolutely loves it.

[@ZeroFidelity]

For effing real though. This Sony has it where it counts the most: A full, engaging sound. I may end up keeping this one.

[@ramondelgado6778]

@@ZeroFidelity It really is great. For a few bucks more, when it is on sale, an even better deal is the home theater version, the STRDH590, which for me personally was a better buy. It has banana clip terminals for the fronts (which is all that I use), a subwoofer output (which I use as well), and HDMI inputs (4) which come in handy. Not to mention, if I ever want to add a center and surrounds, I'm ready. Only $199 when on sale. Loved this review! Thank you for doing budget gear! Merry Christmas!

[@jamegumb7298]

Looked it up, cheapest for me right now is €310. Not very eager to buy tbh.

[@Pinoy4831]

​@@ramondelgado6778

[@johntocho8954]

I bought this Sony and Klipsch RP600M speakers to get back into stereo receiver listening and I LOVE IT! Works really well with Pandora and Spotify. The FM stereo is a plus. Thanks for the review!

[@BryanRuby]

I'm a big fan of Andrew Robinson's as a lot of his reviews are geared toward my spending habit of buying products in the sweet spot (not cheap but also not expensive). Although I'm not in the market for the STR-DH190 (I'm in a step-up phase), it's very cool and appreciated to see you review this receiver. It's one I'd consider buying for my son if I didn't already have an old Sony AVR stored away. What surprises me is the DH190 is the only recent receiver from Sony which includes a phono input. I get why high-end Hi-Fi equipment may not want to provide a built-in preamp but I don't understand why Sony isn't providing phono input for the rest of their AVR lineup. In my opinion, most of Sony's receivers provide great sound with two-channel stereo, but the lack of a phono input in Sony AVRs is why vinyl folks that don't want to deal with external pre-amps talk more about Denon, Marantz, and Yamaha AVRs. In my opinion, it's a missed opportunity for Sony to not provide a phono input in the rest of their AVR lineup.

[@gregoryfrassetti1276]

I watch the both of you reviewers, Andrew and Sean, both within my top five reviewers, NBT and Steve as well. Love that you are reviewing lower prices gear. Sony and Yamaha are excellent at this range.

[@Chiroman527]

Sean , typical honest and frank stereo info from you. I hit the Amazon link. Keep up the good work. Even though I am not a true audiophile by any means, i kinda dabble in it by watching reviews like yours on KZbin. Like all that come to these sites, I am a lover of music and great sound. At 69 YO, and with a recent resurgence of a keen interest into Music ignited by COVID stay at home consequences, during 2020, I created a new sound system in my basement to yield a quasi Mancave (hate that term), to work and play in. Now I'm retired and with the newly found intensified interest in My Music (playing old LPs as well), I have also picked up on playing drums after a 51 year layoff. My wife of 46 years actually tolerates it!!!!! Afterall it was she who gifted me a new cheapo drum set for xmas in 2018. Be safe and well all

[@thomaswachter7782]

Gee, Sean, an excellent review. It's so nice to see a real-world product get a nice review. I own a Yamaha A-S 301 integrated amp and again, it is a real-world product that fits my needs perfectly. For those of us on a budget, it's nice to see what a bargain product can bring to the table. Perfect.

[@aualdrich]

This was an amazing presentation. I was specifically looking for a more thorough discussion of the sound quality, and you did a great job describing it. This is a great complimentary review to Andrew Robinson's overall one. Thanks!

[@scottyo64]

I came from Sony.......still have every Sony product I have bought. Yes that goes back well over 20 years.

[@ZeroFidelity]

Sony puts out some ridiculously good gear when they put their minds (and resources) to it!

[@JaxonRamblers]

Same here. I have the Sony 5.1 surround I bought about 12 years ago. Love it. Like you I have a bunch of Sony products and they never fail.

[@justanotheryoutubeuser5029]

Man i can remember my sony discman way back. That thing worked for 15years or more. It meet its doom only because some dumbass (me) left the batteries in for too long without use. Now i have a sony DAP, still no problems. It just keeps working.

[@andya857]

Sony is the Honda of AV...

[@colanitower]

I still use my very first HiFi system with a Sony TA-2650 amplifier and ST-2950F tuner. Bought them new in 1978, they are still working perfectly.

[@jamesbridgewater5582]

great reveiw...just got one and love it! you are the best at explaining things from beginner to expert audiophiles.you simplify your explanation so anyone can understand and learn.thank you!

[@robertjurcina7055]

Hey Sean, I bought this receiver a yr ago when I jumped into 2 channel stereo again as I approach retirement and still have the hearing to enjoy listening to music. I paired it with Paradigm Atom se bookshelf speakers($ 300.00 taxes in Canadian on sale) and seemed pretty good. I also watched Andrew's review the other day. I passed the system on to my son who just starting out on his own to encourage some headphone free appreciation of music/entertainment. He of course takes advantage of the Bluetooth connectivity. I moved on to the Yamaha RS 300 which seems a bit better. I appreciate that both you and Andrew took a look at these pieces and gave the feedback that the Sony is a reasonable option. As you said in the review this is the stuff many of us can and will make our own.

[@-MarkWinston-]

How do I connect an active sub to this? Can it be done?

[@luism8612]

May I get your equipment when you die?

[@pegabo]

Great review Sean! As always, very helpful information on an amplifier I was considering to purchase. I had heard the hype about this Sony unit from other reviewers as well, for the first time in my audio journey, I had interest in a Sony product. Luckily you were able to make great comparisons to the Sa3 and the benefit of the E30 DAC(which I both own thanks to you) and I don’t see the need for this stereo in my collection. However, I will highly recommend this unit to others as it seems to be an incredible value for the money! Only huge disappointment and possibly a dealbreaker for me are the lack of binding posts which sort of make the unit look sort of past dated. Thanks again

[@templesoundspercussion2298]

Still liking this unit a few weeks later with my Harbeth P3ESR's. A nice convenient receiver esp w/remote at the desktop. Thx for the review Sean! Straight and to the point! Cheers,TS

[@David-tp5rv]

Great review! I managed to pick up the STR-DH590 for under $200 last year. Another great receiver for the price. It perfect for those who want additional channels for movies, but can also run it in stereo for music!

[@ZeroFidelity]

Yep! I got my parents a Sony AVR sometime back in 2014. It's still going strong and quite honestly, sounds better than I think it should. :D.

[@craighoffman8160]

Nice review Sean. It gives us a really good sense of what our money buys here. This affordable but highly competent Sony would be a great "shop receiver". Cover it in stickers, hook it up to some inexpensive Polks, and work on the cars and dirt bikes in style! For the garage system, I have an old Kenwood receiver (covered in dirt bike stickers of course) hooked up to a pair of small Cerwin Vega woofer/Pyle dome tweeter speakers I bodged together 20 years ago. Covered in a thick layer of dust and playing FM or off my phone via a mini jack to RCA adaptor cable, a typical unloved but highly functional shop situation that sounds better than it has any right to. After 20 years of dusty garage service, I decided perhaps I should clean the dust out of the garage receiver. Pulled the cover, blasted it's innards with my electric leaf blower and an epic plume of dust came out. Good for another 20 years - LOL

[@cowprez]

I bought this receiver awhile back and love it. I have NO complaints. Nice review. Thanks.

[@ZeroFidelity]

Nice dude! Enjoy!

[@harpotwitchell]

Really love that you review low cost audio products. Great review! Thanks!

[@kadan_gustafson6609]

Why is everyone so pissy about the speaker connectors? You're practically never going to need to deal with them anyway. You just need to put the end of your speaker wire in there and forget about it.

[@davidgreen1504]

Chronic complainers my friend they will complaint while wiping there ass cause it's not "charmin"😕

[@ZeroFidelity]

Because apparently having to use regular speaker cable is some kind of a grande offense. *shrug*.

[@clemleg123]

Look I don't disagree but if your cable section is on the thick side then I just won't fit.

[@scottyo64]

@@clemleg123 agreed I don't have any speaker wire thats less than 10 gauge and then I like to switch stuff around so I also like banana plugs.

[@dannytse8767]

Just out of curiosity....is there any sound quality differences between spring loaded speaker connectors vs. binding posts?

[@bojanmilankovic]

I find it to be of great value. Does everything I need it to, produces good quality sound with my turntable and speakers, and is intuitive to use and set up. This is my first foray into receivers and I think this one will be sticking around for a long time. Great review!

[@williamcanada6195]

Thanx! Bill from France ! Very interesting and insightful review !! By the way, though it’s off subject, any chance for a Marantz PM7000N review one day ?!? Keep up the good work !! Happy Holidays despite the COVID Pandemic !

[@MichaelFriedlander1125]

Thanks for the review. Pass this up if you're interested in FM stations and live in an area of marginal reception. There's only one way to add an antenna, and that's using the single wire antenna using a custom plug. No coax connection, no double screws for TV antenna. The second issue is that it's not possible to tune manually. Yes, that's right, no manual tuning, only auto channel seek. If it won't capture your favorite station, you're out of luck.

[@goodboogie]

Back in April I got this Receiver and a set of the CSS5’s both new from BBuy for 120$ total. Later added a Dayton 1200 scratch and dent at $85 and a Fluance refurb RT81 for 160$ it has been just a blast for a budget system and has get me into vinyl collecting.

[@MrPkimura]

Looks like you upped the production quality of your vids. Looks good!

[@jenniferfogerty5782]

Thank you so much. I just bought one yesterday, and was worried I should have gone for a fancier one. However...I love how it sounds!!

[@midnightmyers3873]

I had the old skool version of this back in 96. When i first got into bumping bass, the sound was great and performed perfect. So i added an equalizer too take the amp and my earthquake. Speakers outta the stratosphere lol. Im getting back into bumping jams now, and i was looking for a good amp. Glad too see these are still around and affordable. Thx for this review dude.

[@maryjohann9491]

Just bought this receivee yesterday, and I can't wait to hook it up while watching your video.

[@ericmayle8510]

I just received this receiver today and paired it with a set of sony SS CS5 speakers and an Audio Technica turntable, and I have to say I had no idea what my ears have been missing since the 80s. Even though this is basically a starter budget set the sound is impressive. The radio tuner is probably the weak point of the tuner, but there is enough signal to pick up quite a few channels. The sound from the turntable is incredible too, without having to ground the turntable. I have tons of music on my phone and pairing it with Bluetooth was a breeze. I can see myself collecting a lot more vinyl in the future as I did in the 70s. If you're working with a tight budget like me then this definitely is a setup you won't be disappointed in trying out without breaking the bank.

[@NoBody-ij9dj]

Great review! I happen to have an older pair of MA bronze bookshelf's sitting around. This might make a welcome addition to my office. At this price why not?

[@sebastianpolcyn6358]

At this price point, I would honestly take zero issue with those spring loaded connectors. Sure, I'm not a fan of those, but given the price and the kind of speakers this is likely going to be paired with, they're perfectly adequate. Five-way posts in this particular application would be basically just a vanity thing, imo, and especially at this price point, I would much rather see those few cents invested in actual substance - I think "strategic penny pinching" is way more crucial when it comes to designing good budget gear than many people realize. Luckily, Sony seems to have pretty much nailed that here, so thumbs up!

[@Eywadude]

*@Zero Fidelity* Great review. While I am no longer in the market for entry level components anymore, I think reviews like this one are so important, because it helps to inspire and draw new people into the audiophile hobby, which makes reviews of good entry level products like this one so important. May I suggest you try other entry level stereo receiver options from brands like Yamaha and Onkyo to see how they stack up against each other and to see if one is better than the other; whether one has certain sound characteristics, different feature sets and/or may be suitable to different listeners for a combination of those criteria, etc. The more information that's out there for first-time buyers, the more we can inspire people to get into the hobby and make educated purchasing decisions that will inspire them to further pursue the audiophile world because their first purchase was a good one. Just something to consider. Thanks again for another great review. Cheers.

[@thomasward00]

Agree 100% I would even bet that 95% of his subscribers will never spend more than $1K on a pair of speakers, these guys review some items which even most audio fans will never buy.

[@1luvoneworld]

Great review! I bought this receiver with the matching Sony Hi Res bookshelf speakers for less than $200 during Black Friday. I’ve been enjoying Spotify and Amazon Music HD with 24 bit V Moda Speakeasy audio cable. Keep up the great work Sean!

[@adamsanchez1410]

I have the same setup, do you have the ohms on the receiver set on 8 or 6?

[@ramondelgado6778]

@@adamsanchez1410 Leave it at 8.

[@davidbartochowski7832]

Great reviews keep up the great work

[@AudioElectronicsChicago]

For $130 dollars, it is a great receiver

[@chuckcribbs3398]

Interesting review. When I was in college in the ‘80s stereos were all the rage and I didn’t have a lot of money but I had a lot of gear (equalizer, CD, cassette player, receiver, speakers) but there seems to be no market like there used to be. This would be a good starting point for putting a decent system together, cheaply. Thanks!

[@bighands69]

Most audiophile opinions are nonsense. Most of what they think they hear is in their heads. Now do not get a me wrong a $10,000 system will sound amazing in a great room but the idea that a certain $800 or $2000 gear is going to sound better than the Sony at normal domestic listening conditions is pure nonsense. The real key to expensive audio is that it keeps the distortion to a minimum when being played at really loud conditions that most normal people in their home will never go near. The reason there is no market today is due to the fact that cultural creativity is at an all time low.

[@georgealanlpsandcds9311]

Nice review - great idea to review affordable receivers for those guys with smaller bucks or looking for a secondary system :)

[@scottyo64]

It also works for gift giving to help get someone on their journey

[@JosefTreiber]

loved it, plus you had a wondetful aura around using that hidden backlight : )

[@linandy1]

Wife got me one last year, on sale for $99. She told me "now you don't need to bring home anymore old "junky" stereos" LOL

[@paulevans8000]

linandy1 Same with me, got a nice Denon PMA-720AE to get over the “junk collecting” then a couple of weeks later I found a Technics SU-X120 amp, the badge says “New Class A”. Only a few dollars & so I couldn’t resist. I like to think of them as options. Great vid, thanks.

[@hjordanGL]

i felt that

[@Stuntman87]

Same here bro 😆🤣

[@hergiemalaba2941]

😀😀😀😀

[@joeldavilajr1030]

Damn that is Exactly what my wife said !

[@yamman93]

I have put many hours on this receiver and I love it. It’s being fed by a Cambridge audio sac and it is powering a pair of Polk audio LSIM 703s. I must say it’s a great combination and it truly does a better job at powering this speakers than a NAD D7050. There is plenty of power and it really allows this speakers to really image well. Great value for the money

[@monastillero7763]

Love that lighting in the beginning 👍

[@barrettwbenton]

Excellent review. Picked up the Sony for a second hi-fi (already have an El Serioso 'fi in the living room, but it's also hitched to the house's 52" flat-screen, so I don't get to play music thorough it when I want to). Tried a few vintage receivers beforehand, but both developed problems shortly after setting them up, so went to the Sony out of frustration…and, guess what? The thing really, really struts its stuff, and not just for a "cheap-seats" receiver. And it gets a workout, too: turntable, CD, tape (yes, tape), and streaming via several sources. Yes, by this point in time companies like Sony can knock out "plain", audio-only receivers like this in their sleep, but next to nobody bothers because that's not where the money is…or is it? This Sony is getting above-average attention, so who knows? (P.S. The headphone output keeps up its end with everything else: Listening through both Grado 325is and Sennheiser HD 25-1 II 'phones, I *very* much liked what I heard.)

[@microteche]

Great review on this product, thanks.

[@TheHammerofDissidence]

We really are living in a golden Era of affordable hifi. I see these all the time at work (a parcel service). People buy this unit pretty frequently.

[@he5975]

In 15 years they will all be in a landfill?

[@ZeroFidelity]

And you know whats crazy? Most of the people buying this unit have no idea how unusually good it really is for the money. Either way, I'm just happy to see people still buying stereo gear.

[@ZeroFidelity]

I don't even think it matters, outside of environmental concerns of course. If somebody owns and makes great use out of something, especially over the course of a decade+, then I'd say it was a completely worthwhile purchase.

[@Baerchenization]

@@ZeroFidelity Do you think audio used to be more of a young people sport but is now more for the more senior ages? Or is that just me getting older and projecting? :) But I generally like to think that I am doing less nonsense now and have more mature interests, but who doesn't want to feel good about what they are doing, right? ;)

[@tomchan2559]

@@Baerchenization Young people buy Head-Fi these days. It ain't cheap if you get a AK player and a pair of Sony Noise Cancellation Bluetooth Headphones

[@rizalahmad4207]

Wow! I really am surprised by the new visual presentation and the lighting. Way, way nicer! Now, just by the visual effect, I believe you even more Shawn 😇

[@gettingstuffdoneright5332]

thanks for an excellent overview. I would add there is a huge difference when you enable the direct sound option, the improvement is stunning while everything remaining nice and flat and never hyped. And you can leave it that way even when using Bluetooth, and the Bluetooth has been very reliable and sounds good.

[@hgroton2078]

I own this receiver for my bedroom and is connected to a pair of KEF Q100, I love it and the only complain I have about this receiver is it's cheap plastic speaker connectors buy I like the sound very much I recommend it to a friend. Great review, thanks

[@Aleksandar.D]

As most of your reviews, this one is very clear, informative and at the same time entertained and honest. I don't like colorized reviews where people try to convince audience that some device is great or bad instead of presenting their own experience with that device. It will be great if you could do a review of Kandy K2 integrated amplifier which is one of the highly praised amplifiers when it was hit the market. Interestingly there are only written reviews and no one did a decent video review. So I tought that you could be the right guy for such task 🙂 Anyway, keep up with good work and don't let the manufacturers try to bias your reviews. Honest opinion means a lot in this days, where everything can be bought with the right amount of money. I really do enjoy your videos 🙂

[@ZeroFidelity]

Appreciate the positive vibes. Can't say there will ever come a time when a hi-fi manufacturer will influence any of my reviews. As I tell them: The product is the product. I'm not here to give an opinion. I'm here to tell people about the natural performance envelope of the product so that the right expectations are set. Nada more. Nada less. As for Kandy.. yep, I'm familiar with them. MANY audio companies need a fire lit under the butts when it comes to embracing the YT platform. Some are coming around though... little by little. :).

[@fernandos.8158]

first time watching. Loved the video. Im a newbie with sound systems but just bought the pioneer SP-FS52 tower speakers for my mid size living room. I like this receiver for its price. Looking to make this purchase and use it with my tower speakers.

[@twenty4seven368]

This is a really entertaining review Sean. Although it’s not a piece I’ll purchase, i found the content to be refreshing. Keep it up!

[@ZeroFidelity]

Cheers!

[@NoBody-ij9dj]

Agreed.

[@mikefrank6319]

You are right about one thing. This Sony is a piece alright.

[@bighands69]

99% of what people have in their homes is not furniture it is trashy mass manufacture throw away junk. My great grandfather build furniture in the 1800s that is still around today and my grandfather built furniture nearly 100 years ago that is still fully functioning and looks far better than the rubbish made in factories today. There is no point having a $10000 audio gear that looks great but is sitting beside junk that is called furniture.

[@Deeky76]

@@bighands69 Well tell your great grandfather that this video is for hifi products, He'll find 1800s furniture in the over 100s section in IKEA.

[@TorToroPorco]

I was a bit surprised when Sean said he was planning to review a Sony receiver but frankly I'm more shocked at the price point especially since he declared he was going to be focusing on much higher spec'd components a while back. Could this be a kinder gentler Zero Fidelity? But this is definitely a very useful review for bargain hunters (and Xmas time). Here in Canada it is currently selling for $229 at Best Buy which is a price point below what I would consider buying for myself but omigod I could put one of these plus a pair of Elac 6.2s (currently on sale locally @ $329) in every room in my house at a price lower than a single SONOS wireless speaker! Looking at the specs Sony specifically states that it is sound-matched to their entry level turntables which may account for this receiver's lack of a V-shaped sound curve.

[@largote]

A Chromecast Audio would make an excellent "DAC" for something like this. The Schiit Modi 3 is also a good candidate.

[@KyleKick909]

I have the STR-DH550. I only bought it because I needed 2 sub outputs and this was the only receiver that I could find at the time that was 5.2 and didn't cost a lot. Even though I really like it, I would have never thought that Sony STR-DH lineup would be as good as it is. I think I really got lucky when I bought it.

[@fredmclaughlan7574]

I had an entry level Sony reciever late '70s with pair of Bose 501's, sounded great. I purchased this new model & will pair with my Klipsch R51m & when budget allows a Yamaha single cd player. Love I can pair with Spotify thru tablet. Not high end but Hey!!! Thanks Sean, always appreciate your input!!!

[@bobandbarbpavlik8118]

A little long, but great information. Very helpful. Thank you!

[@davdidit6]

Andrew Robinson did a great review of the Arylic A50, have you reviewed that yet?

[@TheFrugalAudiophile]

Nice to hear your take on sone more ‘affordable’ gear. I put this term in quotes because I do recognize that it is relative. We each must determine what makes to most sense for us in terms of budget.

[@ZeroFidelity]

Thanks, and totally agreed!

[@mihaipopa9414]

Thank you, you helped me decide to buy it. Cheers!

[@charlesclifton1006]

Sean - my good man - you really do know how to paint a clear picture of this Sony unit and just about anything else you care to review. With what you've said here, I can safely recommend this unit to those who are budget-minded by choice or not. These units are available in Canada for 229CDN or less. With what you mentioned about the Harbeth P3 ESRs, this amp just might be a good match with the Sound Artist LS3/5a(s) if a dreamy desk-top is the wish on a mid to low budget. Just a thought. Ok ... over to Andrew.

[@mr.george7687]

Would like to see your take on the Outlaw Receiver which will accept 4ohm speakers.

[@donaldwhite7536]

I really appreciate your comparison of the Sony to somewhat more expensive gear and what you can expect to get when spending some more bucks. It’s all about the law of diminishing returns. Thanks!

[@ZeroFidelity]

Cheers!

[@danmartin3183]

I'm not old as dirt, but I do recall when dirt was new. I like receivers. Pioneer was my first, then an Onkyo, followed by a NAD.. Now an Outlaw Audio.

[@mr.george7687]

I also have a Outlaw Receiver. The most underrated Audiophile receiver!

[@danmartin3183]

@@mr.george7687 I agree. But the Outlaw isn't really a "budget" receiver.

[@guillermocubillos9727]

2 things. 1st, I’m trying to justify to buy this one, but I already have all the gear I need, but my mind is still trying to find a use for it... $99? Cmon. With a whole chasis and all those inputs plus good sound. It’s a steal. 2nd. I like Andrew and his style and of course I enjoy your channel always. Is great to see how you all acknowledge other reviewers work and effort. You all makes it way easy for many many people to get into this wonderful audiophile stuff. Great job, Sean

[@jeffcsMN]

I like it so much I ended up buying 2 (for the living room and basement). Only minor complaint is the sound is a little flat depending on the source, but its hands down one of the best receivers at this price point.

[@Swedwork]

Bought it a week ago , have Dali 18 mk2 conected very pleased with it recomend it

[@stevezeidman7224]

Sean, I thought you excelled in explaining this product.

[@roinebloom2807]

You and Andrew rocks!

[@robertdavis6593]

Great review

[@WarinPartita6]

I​ also​ listen​ to​ Andrew​ (and​ Kristi--and​ Jay, Steve​ and​ Darko​), too, Sean.​ All​ of​ you​ always​ educate me.​ BIG​ THANKS.​

[@Raymondey]

Nice review!

[@ZeroFidelity]

Cheers!

[@ColdSphinX]

In the amp menu you can switch between 6 Ohm and 8 Ohm speaker mode. I got mine 2 weeks ago as a quick replacement coming from a Fisher RS-1022 that lost it's left channel. Hopefully I get that Fisher fixed, but then I'll have a backup.

[@PMS1950]

Excellent review.

[@crisjr6478]

It’s amazing how much clean power this Sony has. I love mine.

[@stevesstuff1450]

Great review.. :-) I bought one of these receivers about a year ago from Amazon UK, and although I wish it had at least one optical-digital input on the back, I've had no complaints... it sounds fantastic, playing into my Q-Acoustics 2010i speakers, and using the "Amp Menu" button on the remote, you can switch between 6 or 8 Ohm speaker loads. Using that same "Amp Menu" button, you can also rename the inputs to match what you're playing through them, which is nice, plus don't forget that the remote also "Bass" and "Treble" adjustment controls, so you can vary the sound to your own requirements.... The Bluetooth quality of play back is excellent, and you can actually pair more than just one device to it. Overall sound quality is excellent for the price... and beyond; I've not tried the built-in phono pre-amp as I prefer to use my Rega Fono Mini turntable pre-amp, but coming in through any of the inputs, it sounds excellent! It was advertised here in the UK as being tuned to a more UK/European sound sensibility, which I appreciate, and was a deciding factor in buying it - I don't want it by default sounding bass and treble heavy - no 'smiley face' EQ thank you! Very 'flat'..... I'll add my own EQ if I want it!

[@stevesstuff1450]

Just belatedly replying to my own comment here - consider it more of an update! I have since, and for quite some time now, been using the built-in phono pre-amp. It's a keeper! I currently have my Rega RP1 (with Rega P2 glass platter upgrade), and this built in pre-amp sounds terrific; very clean, no noise; just gorgeous record reproduction. I've seen in a few other reviews that the pre-amp is rated highly, and is plus point to this receiver; it's not just thrown in to appeal to the newer 'vinyls' crowd!! It really is worthy of it's inclusion! :-D

[@Newrecordday2013]

Haven’t had a chance to watch this yet but so dig the lighting changes in the intro. I’ll circle back around after checking out the entire video.

[@ZeroFidelity]

The hilarious thing is that it was in response to my frustration with the Panasonic GH5.

[@yuckysamson]

+1 on the appreciation of Sean being lit, from above eye level, with what appears to be.... A modifier. HOT DAMN!

[@TrevorLahey3]

Excellent video. I would have liked to see some images of the things you describe, like other speakers, DACs, Amps - even stock images. Still, great review

[@yogoeasystudio]

Great to know your opinion.

[@ammarkh]

Amazing review! Thanks you. One question: I watch always your videos and I have a question: can I get a hifi sound if I connect this to klipsch r51m?

[@mikrophonie5633]

The Sherwood he mentioned is also a good dirt-cheap no-frills option. The RX-4109 has speaker binding posts too, instead of spring clips. And it has line out, phono stage, and AM reception. No Bluetooth though. I think it's discontinued but there are lots of them on eBay. Just don't hook up 4 ohm speakers and blast them, or it may blow up lol. It states 8 ohm speakers only, but the guy who ran Sherwood for many years said on an audio forum that it can handle 6 ohm too.

[@dannytse8767]

I have the Sherwood and I got it for $69.00 during a Black Friday sale at Radio Shack.

[@PlaybackMansion]

This video looks great!!

[@ushailesh]

Those class D amps on Amazon you mention DON'T HAVE A DECENT REMOTE. I tried a bunch of them and settled for this Sony. And I am very happy 😊

[@suzannelombardo250]

Great presentation You were honest I bought one

[@adamant3844]

I bought the DH190 as a spare stereo receiver mostly due to the fact that it has a phono preamp. The only thing I would've have liked in addition is a loudness button. I don't care for the bluetooth feature but for under $200 you get a pretty damn good receiver.

[@allenotis8863]

I bought the Sony STR-DH190 Stereo Receiver And Polk RTI A1 Speakers from Amazon Dec. 31 2019. The receiver is going through my Yamaha MG 10XU mixer. The Mixer is the main connection hub for my Desktop the MG 10 has a dac built in works great I also use FX sound software to boost the EQ.

[@tsstereo5082]

I've been using this receiver for 6 mos now every day and its just fine for my personal listening agenda in a near field desktop situation. I'm a musician and mostly just want to listen for fun...but sometimes critically. I do have Harbeth P3ESR's (decided to make the investment based on Seans recommendation) and they sound real nice with the Sony. I just got a Dragonfly DAC and its hooked up to my windows 7 Alienware computer and everything is just hunky dory. YT compression and bad recordings are manageable with the tone controls. Sure.. I wish it had a graphic EQ..and L to R balance controls etc..but for the cash..its a great way to start and get your feet wet. Someday I'll get some more specialized equipment when needs warrent. But for now..this is just fine. Cheers, TS

[@Pentenfi]

I was looking for a budget amp for a friend recently and considered this one. But it has only analog inputs and he wanted optical. Otherwise, I think its a great option

[@sting64az]

Sean is the sound on this receiver good in vocals and sound stage?. Not sounding too compressed like some lower budget receivers sound.. Thanks for all your reviews as you sure make it so easy to understand...

[@DougMcDave]

I just got this receiver. It really makes CD's sound good! I decided to upgrade to the JBL, stage a130 speakers, instead of the "default" Sony CS5. Both are 6 ohms. It is very convenient to have the Bluetooth feature to play music from my smartphone. To make my Audio technica turntable sound good, I find I need to boost the treble (and perhaps the bass) a bit. Their remote makes that simple. My only issue are those flip tab speaker outputs. It was hard not to unravel the speaker cables, while still making the 16 gauge wire fit in the holes.

[@DaveJBL]

Love my Sony 190 paired with my 30 year old szabo 521s and my iphone with spotify. sounds great to me.

[@seand67]

Thanks, I picked this up to replace my Sharp bookshelf system, which sounded good, but was limited in so many respects, like inputs etc. I'm very happy

[@danallan4860]

Nice stuff on a solid little machine. I like how the STR 190 drives quality speakers and your testimony of it. If you're like me and enjoy really good sound, but not spending too much. My philosophy, spend as much you can afford on speakers that fit your room. Then get a decent quality source: CD/DVD/Record Player. Lastly, a budget, but solid amplifier that can drive the speakers. I'm happy.

[@jklein17]

My garage stereo (also a Sony) took a crap last week and since I can't live without a garage stereo I went out and bought one of these DH-190's and so far I'm really liking it.

[@justanotheryoutubeuser5029]

Nice review! This would be perfect for a room with affordable speakers. Also for people that wanna dip in hifi. Maybe polk audio s15 with this will impress a lot of people.

[@ZeroFidelity]

What's crazy is that, it actually sounds good with some non affordable speakers. I actually prefer this inexpensive Sony over the Marantz Model 30 integrated on my desktop system (feeding a set of Harbeth P3ESR's).

[@justanotheryoutubeuser5029]

@@ZeroFidelity yeah you did mention that in your video. Its was surprising to know affordable amps can sound good on expensive gear or even prefer it over an $3000 amp.

[@tausha46]

thanks great review

[@ZeroFidelity]

Thanks for watching!

[@eottoe2001]

Good system for the price. Has a good sound with vinyl and Bluetooth. The highs and lows are good. Thanks for the rec.

[@ranindudavid2600]

Nice review. Can you please do a review about Rotel a11 tribute.

[@MadisonEverest]

Hey Sean - great review. Am I able to use my powered Yamaha HS50M Monitors with this receiver? Thanks

[@gregorypatton360]

Now i gotta dig out my sony. Thanks dude