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CNET editors' review
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CNET editors' rating:
stars
Excellent
Detailed editors' rating
- Reviewed on: 02/09/2009
Back in 2006, the STR-DA5200ES was the first AV receiver to feature a high-definition graphical user interface (GUI) for setup, finally replacing the ugly VCR-style text menu offered on even the most expensive AV receivers at the time. Sony has finally let this technology trickle down its product line, as the Sony STR-DG920 is the first midrange receiver we've seen to include a basic GUI. On top of pretty menus, the STR-DG920 also has one of the better feature packages we've seen with four HDMI inputs, 1080p HDMI upconversion, and the ability to connect eight video devices at a time. Its big weakness is a complete lack of multiroom support, and audiophiles will be disappointed that it doesn't sound quite as good as the best receivers in this price range; if you need either of those features, check out the Pioneer VSX-1018AH or the Onkyo TX-SR606. Otherwise, the STR-DG920 one of the best values in this price range, with a combination of features well-suited for a modern, high-def home theater.
Design
We liked the minimalist look of the STR-DG920. It's easy to fill the front of an AV receiver with tons of buttons, but the Sony is relatively sparse except for four large knobs that control functions like volume and input selection. The included remote is also excellent, with big, easy-to-read buttons for selecting inputs and button rockers at the bottom for volume.
Unlike every other receiver we've tested at this price range, the STR-DG920 comes with a GUI, rather than the unsightly text-based menus that are standard. We've been fans of Sony's GUI on receivers since first seen on the STR-DG5200ES, but it's worth pointing out that the STR-DG920's interface is a step down from the slick ES-series menus. Think of it as a hybrid between a full-on GUI and a text-based menu; the icons and animated menus are there, but so is the blocky white text. An improvement, for sure, but don't expect high-def eye candy. The menus will overlay on top of standard-definition sources, but not on HDMI sources.
Setup
Sony's DCAC (digital cinema auto calibration) automatic speaker calibration system checks to see if the speaker cables are wired correctly, adjusts each speaker's volume, measures the distance between each speaker and the listening position, and determines the "size" of each speaker and the subwoofer-to-satellite speaker's crossover frequency.
We actually botched the very first step of the auto calibration: plugging in the included microphone. We thought it was plugged in, but since the plug wasn't fully inserted, the auto setup aborted after running test tones through all the speakers and subwoofer. The onscreen display indicated "Error Code 33" had occurred, but didn't offer any advice about how to correct the error. Turned out the problem was that we hadn't fully inserted the mic plug into the jack. It's a bit of a tight fit.
With that snag out of the way, the auto setup proceeded without a hitch. Auto calibration takes just a couple of minutes; it's quicker and easier than what we've seen from Onkyo and Denon's auto calibration systems. We listened to two "auto calibration type" (EQ) settings, Flat and Front Reference, and couldn't hear much difference between the two. In either case we felt the subwoofer (LFE) volume was set a little too high for our tastes, so we turned the subwoofer's volume control down.
Features
| Key features |  |
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| Dolby TrueHD + DTS-HD MA | Yes | Onscreen display | GUI | |
| Analog upconversion | 1080p | Source renaming | Yes | |
| Selectable output resolution | Yes | Satellite radio | XM | |
The biggest advantage the STR-DG920 has over its competitors is the inclusion of a basic graphical user interface. It's also strong on analog upconversion, capable of upconverting analog signals up to 1080p; even 1080i component video sources can be converted, which is rare at any price point. The STR-DG920 is XM-ready, but now that Sirius and XM have merged, that means you'll still have access to the bulk of the unified satellite radio programming dial. (You'll need to invest in an XM Mini-Tuner and a Home Dock--plus a monthly subscription--to get XM service on the DG920.)
| Connectivity | |
|||
| HDMI inputs | 4 | Optical audio inputs | 3 | |
| Component video inputs | 3 | Coaxial audio inputs | 2 | |
| Max connected HD devices | 7 | Stereo analog audio inputs | 2 | |
| Composite AV inputs | 5 | Analog multichannel inputs | 7.1 | |
| Max connected video devices | 8 | Phono input | Yes | |
Like the Onkyo TX-SR606, the STR-DG920 features four HDMI inputs, which is the most you're going to see at this price point. It does a good job covering analog video signals, too, with three component video inputs and five AV inputs, although note that the STR-DG920 completely lacks S-Video inputs.
The Sony also generously allows you to connect eight simultaneous video devices (and seven simultaneous HD devices), thanks to plenty of inputs "slots" (such as "BD" and "DVD"). All of the inputs can also be renamed, which means you'll have no problem assigning your inputs to something easy to remember like "TiVo" or "Xbox 360."
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