Crutchfield - North America's electronics authority since 1974

1.888.955.6000
 
 
Free Shipping on Everything.  60-Day Money-Back Guarantee  |  Lifetime Tech Support
 

Sony STR-DG820

Home theater receiver with HDMI switching

Zoom Sony STR-DG820
Front
Video loading and will display in just a moment.
Photos
Sony STR-DG820 Sony STR-DG820 Sony STR-DG820
 
Videos
 

Item# 158STDG820 offer details

Item# 158STDG820

Review Sumary

 
DISCONTINUED
 
This item is no longer available to purchase.
 
Contact us for other options
 
Call   Email  
 
In-stock Alternative
 
 
 
 
 
Sony

Our take on the Sony STR-DG820

The STR-DG820 lets you experience all of your movies, TV shows, and music in compelling 360° surround sound. Sony designed this receiver to take full advantage of the latest audio and video gear — from digital HD video sources to XM Radio and portable music players. It even includes built-in decoding for Dolby® TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio — two high-resolution surround sound formats available with some newer Blu-ray players and discs.

High-def HDMI switching and simplified system operation
If you've got multiple high-definition video components, you'll love the 'DG820's 1080p HDMI switching capabilities. Hook up four HDMI-equipped components and switch easily among them, while maintaining pristine digital purity for both picture and sound. Plus, this future-ready receiver's HDMI connections will allow simplified one-touch operation with compatible Sony A/V components. Just press play on the remote, and watch as the receiver, television, and disc player all automatically power up and switch to the appropriate settings.

More digital entertainment options
The STR-DG820's Digital Media Port lets you play music stored on your iPod® or PC when you connect additional Sony accessories. An optional PC adapter allows you to send tunes from your computer to the receiver through your wired or Wi-Fi® home network. If you're a fan of XM Radio, you'll really appreciate how easily you can add it to the 'DG820. Just connect an optional XM Mini-Tuner package and an XM subscription to enjoy instant access to your favorite XM satellite radio channels. This receiver also tunes in XM HD Surround channels, which deliver music in full surround sound. Special built-in processing lets you enhance the sound of compressed music sources like MP3s and satellite radio.

Get more info on this product

Highlights:

  • 100 watts x 7 into 8 ohms (20-20,000 Hz) at 0.09% THD
  • Dolby® True HD, DTS-HD™ Master Audio, Dolby® Digital Plus, DTS-HD™ High Resolution Audio, Dolby® Digital EX, DTS-ES™, Pro Logic® IIx, DTS Neo:6 decoding, and Digital Cinema Sound processing
  • BRAVIA™ Theater Sync for simplified operation with compatible Sony components (HDMI-CEC)
  • XM Satellite Radio Ready (requires XM subscription and optional XM Mini-Tuner package)
  • Digital Cinema Auto Calibration for easy speaker setup (microphone included)
  • Digital Media Port for adding an optional Sony iPod dock or wireless PC music player
  • Digital Cinema Sound modes
  • Portable Audio Enhancer for improved sound quality with MP3s and other digital music files
  • A/V Sync helps align out-of-sync audio and video for digital sources
  • built-in AM/FM tuner
  • A/V remote
  • 16-15/16"W x 6-3/16"H x 12-13/16"D
  • warranty: 2 years
  • Our 60-day money-back guarantee
Connections:
  • 1080p-compatible HDMI digital audio/video switching (4 in, 1 out)
  • supports x.v.Color™ with compatible video sources and TVs
  • component video switching: 3 in, 1 out
  • 4 audio/video inputs, including:
    • 1 front-panel input with composite video
    • 3 rear-panel inputs with composite video
  • 2 audio-only inputs
  • no phono input
  • digital inputs: 3 optical, 1 coaxial
  • 2 sets of main speaker outputs
 

Hands-on research from the Crutchfield Labs (what are the Labs?)

Features and Specs

Features and Specs
General
Stereo RMS Power (watts)
Loading...
100
THD in Stereo
Loading...
0.09 %
Frequency Bandwidth (stereo)
Loading...
20-20k Hz
FM Sensitivity
Loading...
Not Given
Built-in DVD Player
Loading...
No
On-Screen Display
Loading...
No
Multiple Zones
Loading...
No
HDMI Standby Pass-through
Loading...
---
Composite Video Conversion
Loading...
---
S-Video Conversion
Loading...
---
Component Video Conversion
Loading...
---
Internet-ready
Loading...
---
Apple AirPlay
Loading...
---
DLNA Certified
Loading...
---
Multibrand Remote Control
Loading...
---
Learning Remote
Loading...
No
LCD Remote
Loading...
No
Width (inches)
Loading...
16-15/16
Height (inches)
Loading...
6-3/16
Depth (inches)
Loading...
12-13/16
Weight (pounds)
Loading...
---
Parts Warranty
Loading...
2 Years
Labor Warranty
Loading...
2 Years
Surround Processing
Dolby Digital
Loading...
Yes
DTS
Loading...
Yes
Inputs & Outputs
Phono Input
Loading...
No
Audio-Video Inputs
Loading...
5
Audio Inputs
Loading...
2
S-Video Inputs
Loading...
None
S-Video Outputs
Loading...
None
S-Video Monitor Outputs
Loading...
None
Component Video Inputs
Loading...
3
Component Video Monitor Outputs
Loading...
1
Optical Digital Inputs
Loading...
3
Coaxial Digital Inputs
Loading...
1
Optical Digital Outputs
Loading...
None
Coaxial Digital Outputs
Loading...
None
HDMI Inputs
Loading...
4
HDMI Monitor Outputs
Loading...
1
Subwoofer Outputs
Loading...
1
Preamp Outputs
Loading...
1
Main Speaker Output Pairs
Loading...
2
Main Speaker Terminals
Loading...
Posts A/Clips B
Ethernet Port
Loading...
None
USB Connections
Loading...
None

Product Research

Product Research
What's in the box?

Download owner's manual

  • Black AM/FM/7.1 Channel receiver
  • Wireless remote control (RM-AAP021)
  • 2 "AA" batteries
  • Automatic calibration microphone with attached 18' cord (terminates into a 3.5mm miniplug)
  • AM loop antenna
  • FM wire antenna with attached slip-on "F" connector
  • Operating Instructions (English)
  • Operating Instructions (Spanish)
  • Quick Setup Guide (English/French/Spanish)
  • Important Safeguards
  • Warranty sheet
  • On-line registration sheet
  • Sheet on correct loudspeaker connections using the binding posts (taped to top of receiver)
  • Digital Media Port brochure

Our Product Research Team

At Crutchfield, you'll get detailed, accurate information that's hard to find elsewhere. That's because we have our own in-house Product Research team — they open the box, verify contents, check the owner's manual, and record dimensions, features and specs. We stay on top of new products and technologies to help people make informed choices.

Features
Remote Control
Inputs and Outputs Notes

Features

Overview: The Sony STR-DG820 7.1 channel A/V receiver delivers Full HD 1080 experience to your home theater system. This 1080p A/V Receiver features HDMI with "Active Intelligence", plus x.v.Color and 1080/24p signal capability. In addition to decoding uncompressed audio (LPCM via HDMI), the STR-DG820 decodes the latest audio formats from Dolby Labs and DTS making it fully compatible with Blu-ray Disc. The STR-DG820 features four HDMI inputs that allows for more HD content to be connected. The receiver's BRAVIA Sync feature provides a one button operation (via HDMI) of your entire A/V experience with a select number of BRAVIA televisions. The Sony receiver's Digital Cinema Auto Calibration and its supplied microphone simplifies speaker set up and optimizes speaker performance with the push of one button in just 30 seconds. This full featured A/V receiver expands its ability to playback music from various audio sources (i.e. iPod and Walkman music devices, PC, etc.) with the DIGITAL MEDIA PORT and one of the various Sony accessories (sold separately). The XM Connect-and-Play Ready feature of the receiver provides the ability to access XM satellite radio programming in surround sound (XM tuner and subscription required).

Surround Modes: The Sony STR-DG820 home theater receiver incorporates a wide variety of surround modes to bring you maximum enjoyment from your audio and video software. The surround modes include:

  • Dolby Digital (5.1): Dolby Digital is a 5.1 multi-channel digital surround format which consists of front (left/right), center, surround (left/right) and sub-woofer channels.
  • Dolby Digital EX: Dolby Digital EX is a 6.1 multi-channel digital surround format. Surround back information is matrixed into regular left and right surround channels so that the sound can be reproduced in 6.1 channel.
  • Dolby Digital Plus: Dolby Digital Plus is an improved Dolby Digital surround format that is compatible with up to 7.1-channels of discrete digital sound and also improves sound quality due to extra data bit rate performance.
  • Dolby TrueHD: Dolby TrueHD is a high definition audio technology, using lossless coding technology to faithfully reproduce the sound of the studio masters.
  • Dolby Pro Logic II: Dolby Pro Logic II technology processes any high quality stereo (two-channel) movie and music audio into five playback channels of full-bandwidth surround sound. A matrix surround decoding technology, Dolby Pro Logic II detects the directional cues that occur naturally in stereo content and uses these elements to create a five-channel surround sound playback experience. You can choose from the following Dolby Pro Logic II formats - Movie, Game or Music.
  • Dolby Pro Logic IIx:  Pro Logic IIx expands any existing stereo- or 5.1-channel audio for a 6.1- or 7.1- channel playback, creating a seamless, natural surround soundfield that immerses you in the entertainment experience. You can choose from the following Dolby Pro Logic IIx formats - Movie, Game or Music.
  • DTS: DTS Digital Surround is a 5.1 multi-channel digital surround sound format used for both commercial/theatrical and consumer grade applications.
  • DTS-ES Extended Surround:  DTS-ES features two 6.1 multi-channel formats.
    • DTS-ES Discrete 6.1: DTS-ES Discrete 6.1-channel is a 6.1-channel discrete digital audio format adding a surround back channel to the DTS digital surround sound.
    • DTS-ES Matrix 6.1: DTS-ES Matrix 6.1-channel is a discrete 6.1 channel digital audio format inserting a surround back channel to the DTS surround sound through matrix encoding.
  • DTS-HD High Resolution Audio: DTS-HD High Resolution Audio is an improved version of the conventional DTS, DTS-ES and DTS 96/24 signal formats that is compatible with sampling frequencies of 96 or 48 kHz and up to 7.1-channels of discrete digital sound. High data bit rate performance provides high quality sound.
  • DTS-HD Master Audio: DTS-HD Master Audio is a lossless audio format compatible with up to 96 kHz and up to 7.1-channels. The lossless audio coding technology faithfully reproduces the sound of the studio master.
  • DTS Neo:6 Surround: DTS Neo:6 is a matrix decoding technology for achieving 6.1-channel surround playback with 2-channel sources. You can choose from two DTS Neo: 6 Surround formats - Neo: 6 Cinema and Neo: 6 Music.
  • DTS 96/24: DTS 96/24 is a digital audio format enabling high sound quality playback in 5.1-channels with a sampling frequency of 96 kHz and 24 bit quantization of DVD-video.
  • Neural THX: 360-degree 7.1 surround sound playback from neural-THX surround encoded content such as  certain programming on XM satellite radio.
  • Digital Cinema Sound (DCS): Digital Cinema Sound is the concept name of the surround technology for home theater developed by Sony. DCS uses the DSP (Digital Signal Processor) technology to reproduce the sound characteristics of an actual cinema cutting studio in Hollywood. When played at home, DCS will create a powerful theater effect that mimics the artistic combination of sound and action as envisioned by the movie director. The DCS soundfields used in this receiver include:
    • Cinema Studio EX A: reproduces the sound characteristics of the Sony Pictures Entertainment "Cary Grant Theater" cinema production studio, great for watching most any type of movie
    • Cinema Studio EX B: reproduces the sound characteristics of the Sony Pictures Entertainment "Kim Novak Theater" cinema production studio, ideal for watching science fiction or action movies with lots of sound effects
    • Cinema Studio EX C: reproduces the sound characteristics of the Sony Pictures Entertainment scoring stage, ideal for watching musicals or films where orchestra music is featured in the soundtrack
    • V.Multi Dimension: creates virtual surround sound from a single pair of actual surround speakers
    • Hall: reproduces the acoustics of a classical concert hall
    • Jazz Club: reproduces the acoustics of a jazz club
    • Live Concert: reproduces the acoustics of a 300-seat live concert house
    • Stadium: reproduces the feeling of a large open-air stadium
    • Sports: reproduces the feeling of sports broadcasting
    • Portable Audio: reproduces a clearer sound image from your portable audio device; ideal for MP3 and other compressed music
  • Headphone Sound Fields: When headphones are connected, you can select the following sound fields:
    • Headphone 2CH: outputs the sound in stereo, 2-channel sources bypass the sound field processing, multi-channel surround formats are downmixed to 2 channels
    • Headphone Direct: outputs analog signals with no sound field or tone processing
    • Headphone Theater (Digital Cinema Sound): allows you to experience a theater-like environment
  • Multi-Channel Stereo: Outputs 2-channel left/right signals from all speakers.
  • Analog Direct: The direct feature amplifies the source without any processing, only the volume and front speaker balance adjustments are active.
  • Two Channel Stereo Mode: The 2 channel button sets the receiver to power only the front left and right speakers, no surround and no subwoofer. Two-channel sources bypass the sound field processing and multi-channel sources are down-mixed to 2 channels.

Auto Format Direct: The Auto Format Direct (A.F.D.) mode presents the sound as it was recorded or encoded without adding any surround effects. When you select A.F.D. Auto, the receiver automatically detects the type of audio signal being input (Dolby Digital, DTS, or standard 2-channel stereo) and performs the proper decoding if necessary. You can also select Pro Logic II Movie, Pro Logic II Music, Noe:6 Music, Neo:6 Cinema, or Multi Stereo to apply the appropriate decoding for movies or normal stereo sources such as CDs. The receiver will generate a low frequency signal for output to the subwoofer when there is no LFE signal.

Auto Calibration: The STR-DG820 is equipped with Digital Cinema Auto Calibration Technology which uses the included microphone to automatically check the speaker connections, adjust the speaker output levels, and calculate the distance from each speaker to the listening position. The microphone has an 18' cord attached that plugs into the microphone input on front of the receiver and has a threaded insert on the bottom so it can be mounted to a tripod.

Test Tone Level Adjustment: The receiver also employs a test tone with a frequency centered at 800Hz which allows you to adjust the speaker levels and balance manually while listening to the audible tone from your listening position. You can adjust speaker and the subwoofer level and the balance of just the front speakers from left to right.

  • Front Level: -10dB to +10dB in 0.5dB increments
  • Center Level: -20dB to +10dB in 0.5dB increments
  • Surround Left Level: -20dB to +10dB in 0.5dB increments
  • Surround Right Level: -20dB to +10dB in 0.5dB increments
  • Surround Back Left Level: -20dB to +10dB in 0.5dB increments
  • Surround Back Right Level: -20dB to +10dB in 0.5dB increments
  • Subwoofer Level: -20dB to +10dB in 0.5dB increments

Speaker Setup: The Speaker Setup menu allows you to set the size, distance from your seating position, and location of the speakers connected to the receiver. The following adjustments are available:

  • Speaker Configuration: 3/4.1, 3/4, 3/3.1, 3/3, 2/4.1, 2/4, 4/2.1, 3/2, 2/3.1, 2/3, 2/2.1, 2/2, 3/0.1, 3/0, 2/0.1, 2/0
  • Speaker Sizes: Large or Small
  • Speaker and Subwoofer Distance: 3'3" to 32'9" in 1" steps
  • Crossover Frequency: set crossover point for speakers set to small, choose 40 to 200 Hz in 10 Hz increments.

Equalizer: You can adjust the tonal quality (bass and treble level) of the front speakers from -10dB to +10dB in 1dB steps.

Dynamic Range Compressor: This feature allows you to compress the dynamic range of the sound track. You can select standard, maximum or auto compression; or off (only works with Dolby Digital sources).

Effect Level: The Effect Level feature lets you adjust the presence of the surround effect for soundfields selected with the Movie or Music mode or Headphone Theater mode. You can choose from 50%, 80%, 100% or 150% effect level.

A/V Sync: The audio output can be delayed so that the time gap between the audio output and the visual display is minimized. This is especially helpful when you are using a large LCD or plasma TV or a projection TV. When activated, the delay can be adjusted from 0 to 300 milliseconds in 10 millisecond increments.

Night Mode: This function allows you to retain a theater like environment at low volume levels. This function can be used with other soundfields. When watching a movie late at night, you will be able to hear the dialogue clearly even at a low volume level.

Bravia Theater Sync: Sony's Bravia Theater Sync feature allows you to easily manage select BRAVIA televisions and Sony HDMI audio and video components with a single remote. By connecting Sony components that are compatible with the HDMI Control function with a HDMI cable, operation is simplified in the following ways.

  • One-Touch-Play: When you playback a component such as a DVD/Blu-ray Disc Player, the recover and the TV are turned on automatically and switch to the appropriate HDMI input.
  • System Audio Control: While watching TV, you can select to output the sound from the TV speaker or the speakers connected to the receiver.
  • System Power Off: When you turn off the TV, the receiver and connected components are also turned off simultaneously.

Tuner: The STR-DG820 has 30 presets each for AM and FM for a total of 60. In addition to preset and auto tuning, stations can be tuned directly by frequency.

Station and Source Naming: Each preset station and program source may be given an index name of up to 8 characters.

Sleep Timer: The unit may be set to automatically turn off after 30, 60, 90, or 120 minutes.

Dimmer: You can adjust the brightness of the display in 3 steps: 0% dim, 60% dim, or 100% dim.

Remote Control

Remote: The supplied remote (RM-AAP021) is pre-coded to control this Sony receiver, Sony TVs, Sony CD players, Sony DVD players and recorders, and Sony Blu-ray disc players and recorders. You can also program the remote to control non-Sony audio/video components. You can change the factory settings of the input buttons on the remote to suit the components in your system. For example, if you connect a DVD recorder to the Video 1 input jacks, you can set the Video 1 buttons on the remote to control the DVD recorder.

Inputs and Outputs Notes

x.v. Color 1080/24p HDMI: The Sony receiver features four 1080p HDMI inputs and one 1080p HDMI output. The receiver transmits both audio and video through the HDMI monitor output to your TV or you can choose for the HDMI monitor out terminal to only output video to your television. Video signal that is input through HDMI input can only be output through the HDMI monitor output terminal. The receiver's HDMI inputs and output also support x.v.Color which is a new color standard that can express a wider color range than the currently used broadcast standard. The unit's HDMI inputs and output also support 1080/24p video signals.

HD Component Video: This unit features three component video inputs and a component video monitor output. These jacks feature an 80 MHz bandwidth, making them capable of passing high-definition video signals.

Note: The receiver does not convert video signals. It can only output the same type of signals that it receives. The receiver is capable of receiving and sending HDMI, Component Video, and Composite Video signals. There are no S-Video jacks.

Digital Inputs: The receiver has three optical digital inputs and one coaxial digital inputs. You can choose auto decoding or PCM for the digital audio inputs. Auto will decode the signal in its original form (Dolby Digital, DTS, PCM, etc), PCM decodes the signal to 2-channel. All the digital audio jacks will support 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, and 96 kHz sampling frequencies. These digital inputs are assignable.

SACD Input: No sound is output from the receiver when you play a Super Audio CD on an SACD player connected to the Optical digital input or Coaxial digital input. You must connect an SACD player via the analog input labeled "SA-CD/CD In".

XM Port: You can take advantage of the variety and sound quality of XM Satellite Radio by connecting the optional XM Mini Tuner and Mini Tuner Home Dock and subscribing to the XM Satellite service. XM offers over 150 channels of music, news, sports, and talk radio and even has weather and traffic information in several major markets. The channel number, channel name, channel category, artist name, and song title are listed on the STR-DG820's display. Up to 30 XM stations can be stored as presets and recalled in the same way AM and FM stations are.

Digital Media Port: Sony's proprietary DMP allows you to integrate a wide variety of music into your home theater system. The Digital Media Port allows you to connect optional DMP accessories to play music from a PC, Bluetooth devices, Network Walkman music players or iPod music players. You can connect the following adapters (sold separately).

  • DMP iPod Dock (TDM-IP1): Allows you to dock and play your iPod through the DMP compatible BRAVIA audio receiver. For added convenience, the dock also charges your iPod's battery. The DMP iPod dock is compatible with iPod nano (1st and 2nd generation), iPod (4th and 5th generation) and iPod mini.
  • DMP Media Port Wi-Fi client (TDM-NC1): Allows you to stream digital music from your PC to the DMP compatible BRAVIA audio receiver and view song information on your connected television or monitor. Requires PC with Microsoft Window XP SP2 operating system or newer.
  • DMP Bluetooth Interface (TDM-BT1): Allows you to wirelessly receive and play music through the DMP compatible BRAVIA audio receiver from your Bluetooth compatible notebook, MP3 player or mobile phone. The Bluetooth interface has a range up to 30 feet.
  • DMP Walkman Cradle (TDM-NW1): Allows you to dock and play your Sony NW-S705F or NW-S703F Network Walkman through the DMP compatible BRAVIA audio receiver. For added convenience the cradle also charge your Walkman's battery.

Speaker Outputs: The receiver is equipped with binding post speaker terminals for the front channel A speakers, the surround, surround back, and center channel speaker; and spring clip terminals for the front B speakers.

Front Panel AV Inputs: The STR-DG820 features a set of front panel inputs with left and right RCA audio jacks and a RCA composite video jack.

Headphones: When headphones are plugged into the full-size 1/4" jack on the front panel, all the speakers are automatically muted.

 

Product Reviews

Review this product

Thanks for taking the time to share your experiences about this product. Please be sure to focus your comments on the product itself. Read our Review Guidelines for more information.

Review title
* Email
Your email won't be visible
Display name
(e.g., JohnD) Your review will be signed using the display name and location
* Your location
(e.g., Charlottesville, VA)
* Your rating
Click on a star to rate the overall product on a scale of 1-5
1500 characters left * Your review
Attach a YouTube Review
Crutchfield Video Review Guidelines
  • Only submit videos that you made or are authorized to use.
  • Do not submit videos that contain music, video or visuals that are copyrighted and belong to someone else.
  • Please see our Review Guidelines for more information.
Submit the URL of your YouTube™ video review or product demonstration. e.g., http://www.youtube.com/v/o79TWHh598U
500 characters left Pros
500 characters left Cons
* Agree to Terms
By checking this box you agree your review becomes the property of Crutchfield, that you are over 18 years of age, that you own or have owned this product, and that you are located within the United States or its territories. Please see our Review Guidelines for more information. We reserve the right (but are not obligated to) review all submissions and edit or remove any review in any manner which we deem necessary. Your review should be posted within seven days.
Share this product

1-10 of 11 items >> Sort Results By: Date Reviewed | Rating | Helpfulness
 
5 out of 5

Sony STR-DG820

Written By Joe, Pittsburgh, PA on Thursday, February 12, 2009
 
Overall, this receiver is a great value! I did some searching to find a low-priced 7-channel receiver that decoded True HD, and this one was the least expensive. I found that it has everything that you would need and more as the average home theater watcher. I have been a Pioneer guy for years, but I am impressed with how easy it is to navigate through all of the functions on this one. The auto calibration is easy to set up and tweaked the sound from my Klipsch surround speakers and Sony sub very nicely. I just can't wait to get my system out of an apartment building and into a home so I can really see what this baby has to offer without making anybody angry!!!
2 out of 2 people found this helpful
Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
 
4 out of 5

Sony STR-DG820

Written By Kirk, Abingdon, MD on Thursday, February 12, 2009
 
A much brighter sound with more bass when compared to the receiver it replaced (7 year-old Pioneer 5.1). Surround is more pronounced too, however, it is not playing HD sound, only Dolby Digital or DTS when playing Blu-ray Discs.
Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
 
5 out of 5

Excellent Value

Written By Marc, Yorba Linda, CA on Wednesday, February 11, 2009
 
People who consider themselves audiophiles will likely nit and pick their way through things about this receiver (and probably every other receiver they listen to), but most people aren't audiophiles. What they want is a receiver that is easy to set up and delivers quality audio output and video switching without breaking the bank, and this device absolutely meets that criteria.

My primary reason for getting this receiver was to take advantage of the 4x HDMI inputs so I could seamlessly switch between DSS, Blu Ray, HD camcorder inputs without dealing with my Pioneer plasma switching inputs. It took no time to get everything set up perfectly and easily controlled by my Harmony One remote.

An unexpected feature that I appreciate over its predecessor (a 5-year-old older Yamaha receiver) is that the volume does not ramp up too quickly. I was never happy with how difficult it was to turn up the Yamaha a smidge or two. There is greater range on this Sony, which is quite welcome.

By the time you factor in a great price from Crutchfield, and free shipping, I couldn't be happier with this purchase.
2 out of 2 people found this helpful
Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
 
5 out of 5

TOP NOTCH RECEIVER

Written By bjs10472, BRONX, NEW YORK on Monday, February 09, 2009
 
As a lover of all that is SONY. I have truly enjoy this receiver. The Xm receiver is exceptional. with all the features. Way to go Sony. Keep up the
good work Crutchfield.
Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
 
5 out of 5

Sony STR-DG820

Written By mdacamp, Denver, CO on Saturday, February 07, 2009
 
My previous AVR was a JVC RX-778V (a 5.1 system) and prior to that was a Denon from 1993-94 ( a 4.1 system. ) This Sony STR-DG820 is REALLY a great receiver. The auto-cal feature is easy (press a button on the remote) and it does the rest. The unit actually does more than the Sony website indicates on their specifications section. Crutchfield advisor Mitch walked me through it. For the money and what you get out of this unit you won't go wrong. Most AVR's with 4 HDMI inputs will put you in the 600-700 dollar range starting out. Absolutely a GREAT receiver!
3 out of 3 people found this helpful
Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
 
4 out of 5

A good combo with a sony hd tv and blu ray

Written By nelson, cleveland, oh on Friday, February 06, 2009
 
I bought this receiver after getting a new sony bravaria hd lcd tv. I wanted to upgrade my tv room since my last system (tv, receiver, etc) was 12 years old. I chose sony mostly because I wanted an integrated system where I would not need 4 seperate controllers for the blu ray, the tv the cable box and the reciever. I already had the speakers in the room.

It was fairly easy to hook up the system. Amazingly, the system integration is excellent. With a minimum of reading of the instruction manual and Crutchfield's manual, I now have constant home theater sound for tv programs, including surround sound for the hd channels when broadcast in that mode, and when use the tv controller to switch input to the blu ray player, the receiver automatically switches also, immediately detects the type of sound, which it displays for you and therefore is seamless and effortless. The sound quality is excellent as far as I can tell but I am not really an expert in this area.
I am very happy with the product as it is serving my needs perfectly.
As you can tell from this review however, I cannot comment on relative quality to other contemporary receivers or to value relative to less expensive ones.
Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
 
5 out of 5

Great...but

Written By Paul, Kennett Square, PA on Tuesday, January 20, 2009
 
1) The way to setup everything / menu is sorta tough to do - pain-in-the-butt. 2) Call me goofy, but something that I really noticed from my old Sony 5.1 receiver to this one, was that when turning the volume up - movies were getting real loud at # 18, but now with this receiver, it's only loud at #40... (Weird, because the speakers are the same - didn't change them - and this receiver has more watts...)

(I would have rated this a 4 1/2, but it wasn't an option...)
Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
 
5 out of 5

Awesome receiver for the price

Written By Caleb, Salem, Oregon on Wednesday, December 10, 2008
 
Crutchfield is an outstanding electronics supplier. I look to them first and foremost for all of my electronics shopping because my local retailers aren't very helpful, knowledgeable, and try to pressure you into making a purchase. Crutchfield is amazing and they were very happy to answer all of the questions that I had about purchasing a new state of the art home theater receiver. Now that is what I call customer service. =)

This Sony receiver is an outstanding value for the price including 100 watts by 7 channels, Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD Master Audio Formats, Sony's exclusive digital cinema sound, and automatic speaker calibration ensuring that all your home theater channels are set up correctly! All you do is attach a microphone to the receiver, move it to your listening position, and push a couple buttons. Simply amazing. This receiver is an upgrade over my 10 year old "5.1 Ready" JVC model which still works great, it's just old and needs replaced.

Crutchfield has very fast shipping too. I ordered my receiver one week ago and received it in about 6 days and that's saying something considering I live on the west coast. You can't go wrong with Crutchfield...
6 out of 9 people found this helpful
Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
 
4 out of 5

Thank You SONY !

Written By JohnnyD, Beach Lake, PA on Thursday, November 20, 2008
 
Finally, a decent receiver for my Blu Ray movies without all of the unneeded bells and whistles. All you do is plug your HDMI from your BD player into the HDMI in of the Sony and the HDMI out from the Sony to your tv and after a few minor adjustments, ya got ya DTS MA HD and Dolby True HD.
I don't need nor do I want the receiver "upconverting" my video !
Great machine !
7 out of 9 people found this helpful
Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
 
4 out of 5

Great Value

Written By Hammer, Vermont on Friday, September 26, 2008
 
All in all, a nice feature set and great sound. All the issues people talk about with HDMI aside, this unit will do the job. I give it 4 stars for one reason, I wouldn't use this for driving speakers rated at 4 ohms if you listen loud. I have purchased 3 onyo recievers in the past two years, and two of them have problems. I love onkyo products, but have concerns with reliability and qc. A key factor in the purchase of this unit was the Depth being under 13 inches. Were the yamaha units I wanted not so deep I would have probably purchased yamaha. I have no regrets however. It sounds great, and will satisfy the vast majority of consumers.
20 out of 22 people found this helpful
Was this review helpful?    Yes | No
 
1-10 of 11 items >>

Learn more about Home Theater Receivers

Learn more about Home Theater Receivers

Receivers: How to Choose

Receivers: How to Choose

Dave Bar
12/1/2010
based on 1107 ratings (27 comments)
 

From playing music in the den to delivering surround sound thrills or even multi-room entertainment, today's receivers offer more options than ever. Here's what you need to know to find a model...

 
Setting up Your Receiver for the Best Sound and Picture

Setting up Your Receiver for the Best Sound and Picture

Dave Bar
6/28/2011
based on 152 ratings (10 comments)
 

In this article, we'll explain the ins and outs of setting up your receiver, so you can get all the audio and video performance you paid for.

 
Video: Choosing a Home Theater Receiver

Video: Choosing a Home Theater Receiver

Tara W.
8/30/2010
based on 67 ratings (2 comments)
 

Dolly, Mac and Tara discuss the features available in home theater receivers, and the best way to choose one that's right for you.

 
Video: Multi-room/Multi-source Audio

Video: Multi-room/Multi-source Audio

Amanda P., Video Guest
5/16/2008
based on 19 ratings (2 comments)
 

Crutchfield home theater experts Shawn and Amanda walk you through the basics of multi-room-capable receivers and how you can take advantage of your receiver's capabilities.

 
Video: Analog-to-HDMI Conversion & Upconversion

Video: Analog-to-HDMI Conversion & Upconversion

Amanda P., Video Guest
5/16/2008
based on 44 ratings (1 comment)
 

In this short video, Crutchfield experts explain how HDMI conversion and upconversion can help you make the most of your high-def connections.

 

Accessories

Accessories we recommend

Subwoofer Cables
Using a high-quality subwoofer cable helps you get great-sounding bass with movies and music.
AudioQuest SUB-A
Subwoofer cable (3 meters/9.8 feet)
$38.99
In Stock
 
 
AudioQuest SUB-X
Subwoofer cable (2-meter/6.6 feet)
$69.00
In Stock
 
 
AudioQuest SUB-X
Subwoofer cable (3-meter/9.8 feet)
$79.00
In Stock
 
 
Monster Cable® 400sw
Subwoofer cable (4 meters/13.2 feet)

Also available in:
Open Box: $34.99
$39.95
In Stock
 
 
Monster Cable® 600sw
Subwoofer cable (4 meters/13.2 feet)
$59.95
In Stock
 
 
AudioQuest SUB-1
Subwoofer cable (3-meter/9.8 feet)
$138.99
Out of Stock
 
 
Show more items
Power Protection
Protect your investment from power surges and interference.
Panamax M4300-PM
$339.99
In Stock
 
 
Panamax PM8-AV
Power line conditioner and surge protector
 
$89.99
Out of Stock
 
 
Monster Power AV 600
$19.95
In Stock
 
 
Panamax M8-AV
Power line conditioner and surge protector
 
$119.99
Out of Stock
 
 
Monster Power AV 800
$49.95
In Stock
 
 
Show more items
Coax Digital Cables
Transfer digital audio from your components to your new receiver.
AudioQuest VDM-A
Coaxial digital audio cable (2 meters/6.6 ft.)
$24.99
In Stock
 
 
AudioQuest VDM-X
Coaxial digital audio cable (2 meters/6.6 ft.)
$44.99
In Stock
 
 
Monster Interlink® Datalink™ 100
Coaxial digital audio cable (2-meter/6.6 ft.)
$49.95
In Stock
 
 
AudioQuest VDM-1
Coaxial digital audio cable (1-meter/3.3 feet)
$64.99
In Stock
 
 
Show more items
Optical Digital Cables
Connect your components that require optical digital connections.
Monster Cable 400dfo
Optical digital audio cable (1 meter/3.3 ft.)

Also available in:
Scratch & Dent: $29.99
$39.95
In Stock
 
 
Monster Cable 400dfo
Optical digital audio cable (2 meters/6.6 ft.)
$49.95
In Stock
 
 
Arista 18-5121
6-foot optical cable with mini-optical adapters

Also available in:
Scratch & Dent: $8.99
$17.99
In Stock
 
 
RCA Patch Cords
Maintain optimum sound quality with upgraded audio cables.
Monster Cable Stereo Audio 200i
Stereo interconnect cables with RCA plugs (2 meters/6.6 ft.)
$29.95
In Stock
 
 
Monster Cable Stereo Audio 400i
Stereo interconnect cables with RCA plugs (2 meters/6.6 ft.)
$49.95
In Stock
 
 
Antennas
Upgrade your antenna for improved reception.
Terk
Indoor powered antenna
$59.99
In Stock
 
 
Terk Pi
Indoor amplified FM/passive AM antenna (Black)
$49.99
In Stock
 
 
Terk FM Pro (FM-50)
Indoor/outdoor amplified long-range FM antenna
$119.99
In Stock
 
 
Terk Tower
Amplified indoor AM/FM antenna
$24.99
In Stock
 
 
Terk FM Edge
Indoor amplified FM antenna
$39.99
In Stock
 
 
Show more items

Extras

Component Video Cables
Connect your sources that use the component video connection.
Monster Cable 400CV
Component video cable (2 meters/6.6 ft.)

Also available in:
Open Box: $39.99
$49.95
In Stock
 
 
Monster Cable 700CV
Component video cable (2 meters/6.6 ft.)
$89.95
In Stock
 
 
Racks and Stands
The right rack helps you properly ventilate your receiver and conceal the wires.
Techcraft SF50
5-shelf audio component cabinet
 
$249.99
In Stock
 
 
Professional Installation
Have your new equipment installed by qualified professionals.
Show more items
 
Add selected to cart
 

For a more in-depth review and enhanced detailed information on the Sony STR-DG820, please visit the Crutchfield website product page (/ISEO-rccbcspd/p_158STDG820/Sony-STR-DG820.html ).

Sony STR-DG820