Sony Str DH800 7.1-CHANNEL Audio Video Receiver black 7.1 Channels

I''ve been an avid Sony Receiver user for about 10 years now, mainly buying their high end models. However, when HDMI started to become todays latest interface for AV i had to choose a new Receiver that would allow HDMI support along with the two new HD audio formats available (Dolby True HD and DTS: HD Master Audio). I purchased the STR-DH800 which is Sonys entry level HD system for £300 which was an absolute bargain. Amazingly this receiver is equipped with DCAC (Digital Cinema Auto Calibration) which is something you only tend to find on a high end system. DCAC uses a microphone that comes in the box and automaticlly find the distance of each spaker. It also automatically determines wether the speakers are Full Range or Small so you get the optimum sound out of your set up. Wiring up the speakers and other Input/Outputs is very easy - clear labels for each socket. The remote is layed out so well, the only thing i dont like about is is the build quality. its good! but all the other sony remotes ive used have felt much more sturdy (probably because they were more High End). The buttons so feel solid and you know when youve pressed one. My Amp is wired up to two B&W CM9s and a Pioneer Kuro PDP-LX5090 Plasma Screen. I had to say i was absolutely astonished at what this entry level receiver can do. The mids and the Highs are extremely sharp, giving a sense of depth to the sound. The bass output can get suprisingly low however at high volumes it can feel a little muddy. For a £300 receiver im stunned at what his can do, even True Hd and DTS:HD MA sounds fabulous on here. The video still remains just as sharp and crisp as it originally was. Im conclusion, if you are someone whos going to built a HD Home cinema for their first time then i really do recommend this. The manual is easy to understand as well which is not always the case when it comes to products such as this.