With a Sony A/V receiver, you’re almost always guaranteed incredible sound. From stereos to speakers, Sony has always been a leader in the audio industry. The STR line of A/V receivers is an example. It’s an affordable series of A/V receivers designed for home use.
Two models in the series are the Sony STR-DH590 and Sony STR-DH790. At first glance, you may go for one before looking at the other. The price of the STR-DH590 is enticing. It’s lower than the STR-DH790 (>>> Find on Amazon). When it comes to power the A/V receivers are also evenly matched. You’ll notice the differences when you look at the number of channels and built-in technology.
If you’re considering either of these Sony receivers, here’s what you should know before making your final decision.
Sony STR-DH590 vs Sony STR-DH790 Side by Side
| Sony STR-DH590 | Sony STR-DH790 | |
|---|---|---|
 |  | |
| Video | 4K/60Hz | 4K/60Hz |
| Amplifier | 5.2 Channel (145W per channel) | 7.2 Channel (145W per channel) |
| Sound | 5.1 Dolby Atmos | 5.1.2 Dolby Atmos |
| Wi-Fi | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Price | Find on Amazon | Find on Amazon |
A budget-friendly price is great, but it doesn’t mean it’s the right A/V receiver for you. It’s also a good idea to take a look at the specs.
Audio Quality
You may not need the 7.2 channels on the STR-DH790, the 5.2 on the STR-DH590 is enough, and the power is the same with both components. Where the STR-DH790 differs is with audio quality. You will notice a difference between them.
The DH590 produces cinematic quality audio thanks to S Force PRO audio technology. However, you get dynamic, multi-dimensional sound with the DH790. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X optimize audio giving you a surround sound experience.
Better Audio Quality: Sony STR-DH790
Video Quality
Image quality is as crucial as audio. Great sound is useless if you can’t see the movie. The DH790 produces better image quality, thanks to built-in Dolby Vision. Images are optimized so you see brilliant colors and crisp details.
Both components come with a 4K passthrough, along with HDR technology. However, the DH790 also has HDR10 support. Images are more dynamic and color brighter.
Better Video Quality: Sony STR-DH790
Connectivity
While the DH790 has more channels, 7.2 compared to 5.2 on the DH570, the receivers have the same connectivity features. You can wirelessly connect your Bluetooth device, the adapter is built-in. It’s one less device you need to connect.
Neither A/V receiver comes with a front port. You’ll find everything in the back, so keep this in mind during setup. You are also missing Phono and video inputs. The components do come with 4 HDMI inputs and one output. It’s not a robust control panel, but it is enough for your most used entertainment devices.
Better Connectivity: Sony STR-DH790
Sony STR-DH590
The Sony STR-DH590 is a great A/V receiver for anyone just starting to build an entertainment system. It’s also ideal for smaller spaces with its two speaker setup. You’ll hear exceptional audio without disturbing the neighbors. 90-watts of power keeps the bass clear at higher volumes, while the S Force PRO audio ensures you hear optimized sound.
Your set to watch full HD and 4K content. The receiver comes with a 4K passthrough. HDR technology ensures rich, accurate colors, similar to what you see at the theater. Dolby Vision ensures optimal image quality
Installing the receiver takes a bit of planning. At 15lbs, you don’t want to move every time you need to plug a device in. All of the ports are on the back, so think about the components most often used in the house. Connecting those will make installation easier. Along with wireless Bluetooth, you get a total of 5 HDMI ports. Click here for our more in-depth Sony STR-DH590 review.
Pros
- HDR support
- Built-in Bluetooth adapter
- S Force PRO audio
- 2 channels
- Dolby Vision
Cons
- The receiver does not support Dolby Atmos technology
Sony STR-DH790 Review
The Sony STR-DH790 is an affordable option when you want exceptional audio and video without the extra features. You don’t get voice control or a few other fun features, but the receiver comes with Dolby sound and video.
Dolby Atmos combined with DTS:X delivers impressive audio across the room. Objects won’t create dead zones, sound waves travel around thanks to the built-in technology. No matter where you sit audio will sound great, especially when the 7.2 channels are powered by 90-watts. It’s not enough power to shake the room, but you will get clear audio and dialogue. Auto-calibration helps to clear up any distortion.
A 4K passthrough and Dolby Vision ensure cinematic quality images. The DH790 also comes with HDR10 and Hybrid Log Gamma support. Colors are brighter with more contrast, including lighter and darker shades.
A low-profile design helps with installation but be prepared for its 18lb weight. All of your connections are in the back, except for the Bluetooth built-in adapter. You only have 4 HDMI inputs and one going out, but it should be enough for most of your devices.
Pros
- Dolby Atmos sound
- Dolby Vision
- 4K passthrough
- 2 channels
- HDR10 support
Cons
- The automatic calibration function does not always account for the distance between the speakers causing distortion and low volume levels
Conclusion
Comparing the Sony STR-DH590 vs Sony STR-DH790 shows several differences. The A/V receivers also have similarities. You are not going to get a lot of extra features with either component. Both are affordably priced, though the DH590 has a lower price tag.
The DH790 is priced higher, but you get a little more in audio and video technology (>>> Check on Bhphotovideo). In all other aspects, the A/V receivers are evenly matched. It comes down to if improved sound and image quality is worth the slightly higher cost?