The Sony STR-DH790 is a high-quality 7․2 channel receiver‚ delivering an immersive home theater experience with diverse features and robust connectivity options․
Overview of the STR-DH790
The STR-DH790 stands as a powerful and versatile 7․2 channel AV receiver designed to elevate your home entertainment setup․ It’s engineered to deliver a captivating audio experience‚ supporting high-resolution audio formats and offering seamless integration with modern televisions and streaming devices․ This receiver boasts a robust amplifier section‚ ensuring clear and dynamic sound reproduction across all channels․
Key strengths include its network connectivity‚ enabling access to internet radio and popular streaming services․ The STR-DH790 also features Bluetooth for convenient wireless streaming from mobile devices․ It’s a solid choice for those seeking a balance of performance‚ features‚ and value in a home theater receiver․
Key Features and Specifications
The STR-DH790 delivers 145W per channel (8 ohms‚ 1kHz‚ 0․09% THD)‚ supporting 7․2 channel surround sound․ It features HDMI connectivity with HDCP 2․2 for 4K Ultra HD video pass-through․ Network features include Wi-Fi‚ Ethernet‚ and Bluetooth for streaming․ Audio formats supported encompass Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio․
Other notable specifications include built-in phono input for vinyl playback‚ digital coaxial and optical inputs‚ and a front USB port․ Zone 2 audio output allows for independent audio playback in a second room․ The receiver also supports Sony’s HDMI Control (CEC) for simplified operation with compatible devices․
Setting Up Your STR-DH790
Initial setup involves unpacking‚ connecting speakers‚ and the receiver to your TV and source devices‚ ensuring proper cable management for optimal performance․
Unboxing and Initial Connections
Carefully unpack the Sony STR-DH790‚ verifying all components are present – receiver‚ remote‚ speaker wire‚ and documentation․ Begin by connecting the receiver to a power source․ Next‚ connect your display (TV or projector) using an HDMI cable to one of the receiver’s HDMI outputs․ Ensure proper cable seating for a stable signal․ Connect your source devices (Blu-ray player‚ game console‚ etc․) to the remaining HDMI inputs․ For analog sources‚ utilize the corresponding RCA connections․ Finally‚ connect the antenna or cable TV coaxial input․ Double-check all connections before powering on․
Speaker Configuration and Calibration
Proper speaker setup is crucial for optimal sound․ Connect your speakers to the corresponding terminals on the STR-DH790’s rear panel‚ matching positive and negative polarities․ The receiver supports a 7․2 channel configuration․ Utilize the built-in auto-calibration microphone‚ placing it at ear level in your primary listening position․ Run the auto-calibration process through the receiver’s menu; it analyzes your room’s acoustics and adjusts speaker levels and distances․ Fine-tune settings manually if needed‚ ensuring balanced sound across all channels․ Verify speaker sizes and crossover settings for accurate audio reproduction․
Connecting to Your TV and Other Devices
Connect your TV to the STR-DH790 using the HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) port for simplified audio transmission․ This allows TV audio to play through your receiver’s speakers․ For Blu-ray players‚ game consoles‚ and other devices‚ utilize the remaining HDMI inputs․ Optical digital audio connections are also available for compatibility with older devices․ Ensure proper input selection on the receiver to match the connected device․ Utilize the receiver’s HDMI control (CEC) feature for streamlined operation‚ enabling control of connected devices with a single remote․
Understanding the STR-DH790’s Interface
The STR-DH790 features intuitive front panel controls‚ a comprehensive remote‚ and a user-friendly on-screen menu for easy navigation and customization of settings․
Front Panel Controls and Display
The STR-DH790’s front panel provides essential controls for power‚ input selection‚ volume adjustment‚ and basic playback functions․ A clear and informative display screen showcases the currently selected input‚ surround sound mode‚ and other relevant audio information․ The power button initiates system operation‚ while the input selector allows seamless switching between connected devices․ Volume up/down buttons offer precise audio level control․
Additional buttons facilitate access to preset sound modes and tuning options․ The display’s brightness is adjustable to suit ambient lighting conditions‚ ensuring optimal visibility․ It also provides visual feedback during setup and calibration processes‚ guiding users through the configuration steps․ The front panel’s design prioritizes ease of use and accessibility․
Remote Control Functions
The STR-DH790’s remote control offers comprehensive command over all receiver functions․ Dedicated buttons enable direct input selection‚ volume control‚ and power management․ Navigation buttons facilitate access to the on-screen menu for advanced settings adjustments․ Preset sound mode buttons instantly optimize audio for various content types‚ like movies or music․
The remote also features controls for surround sound configuration‚ allowing users to customize the listening experience․ Playback controls manage connected devices‚ while a setup button initiates the calibration process․ Its ergonomic design ensures comfortable handling‚ and the intuitive layout simplifies operation․ Learning functionality can be programmed for universal control․
On-Screen Menu Navigation
The STR-DH790’s on-screen menu provides a user-friendly interface for configuring settings․ Accessed via the front panel or remote control‚ it’s organized into logical sections: Audio‚ Video‚ Network‚ and Setup․ Navigation is straightforward using the directional arrows and Enter button․ Each section contains numerous customizable options‚ from equalizer settings to speaker configuration․
The menu displays clear‚ concise descriptions of each function‚ aiding in understanding and adjustment․ Users can easily select inputs‚ adjust sound modes‚ and manage network connections․ A help function provides additional guidance․ The intuitive layout ensures efficient access to all receiver features‚ enhancing the overall user experience․
Audio Settings and Customization
The STR-DH790 offers extensive audio customization‚ including a detailed equalizer‚ selectable sound modes‚ and precise surround sound configuration for a personalized listening experience․
Equalizer and Sound Modes
The Sony STR-DH790 provides a comprehensive suite of audio equalization and sound mode options․ Users can fine-tune the audio spectrum using the built-in 9-band graphic equalizer‚ adjusting frequencies to match personal preferences or room acoustics․
Pre-set sound modes‚ such as “Cinema‚” “Music‚” “Game‚” and “Pure Direct‚” optimize the audio output for specific content types․ “Pure Direct” bypasses signal processing for a pristine‚ unaltered sound․
Customizable settings allow saving personalized EQ configurations for different inputs or listening environments‚ ensuring optimal audio performance across all sources and scenarios․ These features enhance the overall listening experience․
Surround Sound Configuration (7․2 Channel)
The Sony STR-DH790 supports a powerful 7․2 channel surround sound configuration‚ delivering an immersive and realistic audio experience․ This allows connection of seven speakers and two subwoofers for expansive soundscapes․
The receiver automatically calibrates speaker settings based on room acoustics using a built-in auto speaker calibration system‚ optimizing sound for the listening environment․
Users can manually adjust speaker levels‚ distances‚ and crossover settings for precise control․ Supported surround sound formats include Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio‚ ensuring high-fidelity audio reproduction from Blu-ray discs and streaming services․
Audio Input Selection and Management
The Sony STR-DH790 offers versatile audio input selection‚ supporting multiple sources like HDMI‚ optical‚ coaxial‚ and analog audio․ Easily switch between inputs using the front panel controls or the remote control․ The receiver remembers your preferred input assignments for convenient access․
HDMI inputs support Audio Return Channel (ARC) and Consumer Electronics Control (CEC)‚ simplifying connections to TVs and other devices․ Input levels can be adjusted individually to balance the sound from different sources․
The STR-DH790 also features a convenient input renaming function for personalized organization․
Network and Connectivity Features
The STR-DH790 boasts Wi-Fi‚ Bluetooth‚ internet radio‚ and streaming service compatibility‚ enhancing your listening experience with diverse online content and seamless device pairing․
Wi-Fi Setup and Configuration
Connecting the STR-DH790 to your Wi-Fi network unlocks a world of streaming possibilities․ Begin by accessing the receiver’s on-screen menu‚ navigating to the ‘Network’ settings․ Select ‘Wi-Fi Setup’ and the receiver will scan for available networks․ Choose your network from the list and enter your password using the on-screen keyboard․
Ensure your network is secured with WPA or WPA2 encryption for optimal performance․ A successful connection is indicated by a confirmation message and a stable network status icon․ Troubleshooting steps include verifying your router’s settings and ensuring the receiver is within range of the Wi-Fi signal․
Bluetooth Pairing and Streaming
The STR-DH790 supports Bluetooth connectivity‚ allowing you to stream audio wirelessly from compatible smartphones‚ tablets‚ and laptops․ To initiate pairing‚ navigate to the ‘Bluetooth’ section within the receiver’s on-screen menu․ Put your device into pairing mode‚ and the STR-DH790 will detect it․
Select your device from the list displayed on the receiver․ Once paired‚ you can begin streaming audio․ Bluetooth offers a convenient‚ cable-free listening experience․ Remember to keep the devices within a reasonable range for a stable connection․ Troubleshooting involves re-pairing or checking Bluetooth settings on both devices․
Internet Radio and Streaming Services
The STR-DH790 provides access to a world of audio content through internet radio and streaming services․ After connecting the receiver to your home network via Wi-Fi or Ethernet‚ you can explore a vast library of radio stations and music platforms․ Navigate to the ‘Network’ or ‘Internet Radio’ section in the on-screen menu․
Browse available stations by genre‚ region‚ or popularity․ Some services may require subscriptions․ Enjoy seamless audio streaming directly through your home theater system․ Regular firmware updates ensure compatibility with the latest streaming protocols and services‚ enhancing your listening experience․
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Common problems with the STR-DH790 include no sound‚ connectivity issues‚ and remote control malfunctions; check connections‚ power‚ and batteries first for quick fixes․
No Sound Output
If you experience no sound from your Sony STR-DH790‚ begin by verifying the volume level on both the receiver and your connected device․ Ensure the correct input source is selected on the receiver‚ matching the device you’re using (e․g․‚ TV‚ Blu-ray player)․
Check speaker connections‚ confirming they are securely attached to the correct terminals and that speaker wires aren’t damaged․ Verify the receiver isn’t muted and that the speaker settings are appropriately configured within the on-screen menu․
Also‚ examine the HDMI cable (if applicable) for proper connection and functionality․ If using a subwoofer‚ confirm its power is on and the crossover settings are correctly adjusted․ Finally‚ a factory reset of the receiver might resolve software-related sound issues․
Connectivity Problems
Experiencing connectivity issues with your Sony STR-DH790? First‚ confirm network settings are correct for Wi-Fi‚ including password and SSID․ For Bluetooth‚ ensure pairing mode is activated on both the receiver and your device‚ and they are within range․
If using HDMI‚ try a different HDMI cable or port on both the receiver and your source device․ Check for firmware updates‚ as these often address connectivity bugs․
For internet radio or streaming services‚ verify your internet connection is stable․ A power cycle of both the receiver and your router can often resolve temporary network glitches․ Finally‚ reset network settings on the receiver to their defaults and reconfigure․
Remote Control Not Working
If your Sony STR-DH790 remote isn’t responding‚ begin by replacing the batteries with fresh ones‚ ensuring correct polarity․ Next‚ verify there’s a clear line of sight between the remote and the receiver’s front panel sensor – obstructions can interfere․
Try resetting the remote by removing and reinserting the batteries․ If still unresponsive‚ consult the manual for remote pairing instructions‚ as some models require initial synchronization․
Check for interference from other devices emitting infrared signals․ As a last resort‚ consider using the Sony Music Center app as a virtual remote control alternative․
Advanced Features and Settings
The STR-DH790 offers Zone 2 audio output‚ HDMI Control (CEC) for simplified device management‚ and regular firmware updates to maintain optimal performance․
Zone 2 Audio Output
The Sony STR-DH790’s Zone 2 feature allows you to enjoy audio in a second room independently from the main zone․ This is perfect for extending your listening experience throughout your home․ You can select the source for Zone 2‚ mirroring the main zone’s audio or choosing a different input․
Configuration is done through the receiver’s on-screen menu‚ enabling you to specify the speaker connections for Zone 2․ Ensure compatible speakers are connected to the designated Zone 2 terminals․ Volume control for Zone 2 can be managed either from the main receiver or‚ with optional remote control‚ directly in the second room‚ providing convenient and flexible audio distribution․
HDMI Control (CEC) Settings
The Sony STR-DH790 supports HDMI Control (CEC – Consumer Electronics Control)‚ allowing simplified operation of connected devices․ When enabled‚ CEC lets you control functions like power and volume of your TV‚ Blu-ray player‚ and other CEC-compatible devices using the receiver’s remote․
Access the HDMI Control settings within the receiver’s on-screen menu to enable or disable the feature․ You can also adjust specific CEC functionalities․ Ensure that CEC is also enabled on your connected devices for seamless integration․ This streamlines your home theater experience‚ reducing remote clutter and enhancing convenience․
Firmware Updates and Maintenance
The Sony STR-DH790 benefits from periodic firmware updates‚ enhancing performance and adding new features․ Regularly check Sony’s support website for available updates specifically for your model․ Updates can be applied via USB; download the firmware file to a USB drive and follow the on-screen instructions on the receiver․
Maintaining the receiver involves keeping the unit well-ventilated to prevent overheating․ Gently dust the exterior with a soft cloth․ Avoid using liquids or harsh chemicals․ Proper maintenance and timely firmware updates ensure optimal functionality and longevity of your STR-DH790․