The SA-HE100 can decode dts-ES sources. The dts-ES Extended Surround adds a rear center channel for a full 6.1-channels of surround. The difference from soundtracks recorded in dts-ES is immediately noticeable. Fittingly, this model incorporates Panasonic's "Times Six" power amplifiers, which use Class H+ circuitry for smooth, consistent sound from all six main channels. The SA-HE100 is close behind with 100 watts per channel output (1kHz, 6 ohms, 0.9% THD). Either or, it'll make you feel like that Tyrannosaurus Rex is breathing down your neck. This receiver uses MOS-FET (Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor) circuitry to enhance performance. By improving power bandwidth and contributing to outstanding sound quality linearity, MOS-FET allows the receivers to reproduce a broad spectrum of frequencies. Among other advantages, MOS-FET makes these models completely DVD-Audio compatible, able to reproduce the rich, lifelike sound the format is known for. The SA-HE100 includes two optical and one coaxial input, plus three S-VHS inputs and one output.
The SA-HE100 has been designed for ultimate audio performance, delivering cutting-edge surround sound from CDs, DVDs, and high-resolution formats like SACD and DVD-Audio with high power and great features. The receiver is equipped with six discrete RCA analog inputs to deliver the enhanced sound quality of multi-channel SACD (Super Audio CD) and DVD-Audio music.
It also decodes DTS and Dolby Digital 5.1-channel sources and Dolby Pro Logic II, which converts sound from regular two-channel stereo sources into 5.1 channel for spacious surround effect. And, you'll also enjoy DTS-ES and Dolby Digital EX extended surround formats, which add a rear center channel for a full 6.1-channels of surround--great for large rooms and home theaters with above-average resolution.
The SA-HE100 incorporates Panasonic's "Times Six" power amplifiers, which use Class H+ circuitry for a smooth, consistent sound from all six main channels. It delivers a full 100 watts per channel output (at 1 kHz into 6 ohms with 0.9 percent THD) so you'll feel the powerful bass of favorite music or the stomp of the Tyrannosaurus Rex breathing down your neck. You'll get slightly higher power--or lower distortion across the audio spectrum, depending on how you look at it--with stereo playback: 100 wpc from 40 to 20,000 Hz into 6 ohms with 0.9 percent THD).
The receiver uses Metal-Oxide Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor (MOS-FET) circuitry to enhance performance. By improving power bandwidth and contributing to highly linear sound quality, MOS-FET allows the receiver to reproduce a broader spectrum of frequencies than do standard amplifiers. Among other advantages, MOS-FET is what makes this model completely SACD and DVD-Audio compatible, with the ability to reproduce the rich, lifelike sound the formats are quickly becoming known for.
The SA-HE100 includes three optical and one coaxial digital-audio inputs, three S-video inputs, and one S-video output, as well as two high-resolution component-video inputs.
1 Good receiver, cheap remote
All in all a solid receiver. As the title says, the remote is not up to what I would consider for something at this price range.
Something to keep in mind, the video output has to be the same as the video input - meaning if you use s-video to your tv/monitor, as do you have to use the same inputs from your components. This wasn't apparent from the description.
Don't lose the remote, as this is the only way to set up the surround.
2 Long-Term Durability?
I bought mine from Circuit City almost a year and a half ago for $399, replacing a Kenwood 9G that I bought 25 years ago, which worked flawlessly, but lacked the convenience of a remote.
It seemed like a great deal, even at that price, working flawlessly until two months after the one-year warranty expired, when it began to show F70 on the display panel. The repair shop found a short and a blown fuse, costing $1.50 for the part and $55 for the labor (plus the 70 mile round trip to the nearest repair shop, twice).
Three weeks later, F70 showed up on the display again and another trip to the repair shop only to find another blown fuse, which was replaced free of charge. So far it has lasted 2 weeks without a hitch.
I figure if it keeps working this time it's still not a bad deal, but if it quits again I'm getting out the old Kenwood and this sucker is going on Ebay.
3 stay clear of this product
I bought this product brand new from amazon.com still in the orignal wrapping and box. Two weeks after receving this amp I had it in the shop where it is untill this very day. What really turned me against this product is when I got to the repire shop there was a receiver just like mine in there for the same problem, the surround channles blowing. Stay clear!!!
4 Lacks good bass
I recently purchased Panasonic receiver model SA HE100K mainly because it was top rated by Consumer Reports and listed as a BestBuy. I am using it strictly for audio (tapes, CDs, vinyl). I was disappointed in its lack of bass reserve even with the bass control turned all the way up. My very old cheap Technics receiver, which I thought I was going to improve upon, actually produces a richer sound with more bass. I was told by Panasonic that these receivers are now made mainly for home theatre systems and possibly the regular stero sound is sacrificed because of this. Too bad Consumer Reports didn't make any mention of this. The problem was solved by buying an equalizer, which really does improve the fullness of the sound, but resulted in making the operation of the controls somewhat more confusing. I feel I should have gotten the sound I was expecting with such a top rated product without having to make this additional investment.
5 great value for the price
Despite what some other reviewers have said, I found this amp extremely easy to install and operate. I'm using it with a 6.1 speaker system, and the sound is wonderful. Great definition and accuracy across the frequency range, lots of 'punch'. For the price, I am very impressed with how many options there are for tailoring the sound. Being an avid LP listener, as well as CDs, I appreciate a modern amp that still has phono inputs!
6 Spectacular surprise, incredible value as a receiver
It seems as if everybody wants a home theatre now. There is such a thing as playing music just to hear music. That's my main use of a stereo receiver.
I bought this system due to Consumer Reports' Best Buy rating. Our old receiver smoked and will cost a lot to repair. This unit seemed cheap enough to use as an emergency backup.
WHAT A FANTASTIC BARGAIN! You can't GET much better than this - not even for five times the price. The radio tunes and plays with utter silence even without an antenna. The S/N ratio must be near or over 100 decibels. I live in a hilly city where losing radio signals is common too. The interface is simple and easy to use, no need for the manual. Everything works as expected; it's ergonomically correct. It has a buffet table of inputs and outputs, you can connect anything to it. It has smooth power and lots of it. I hooked up four 8-ohm speakers and it's still loafing.
My only (extremely tiny) discomfort so far has to do with Amazon.com, not the unit itself. My vintage equipment needed special connectors. I ended up waiting a week for delivery of speaker wire to make cables for the new setup. It would have been nice if Amazon.com had included a reminder that maybe I should include some banana plugs and speaker wire while I was ordering the unit. It would have saved time.
Meanwhile, I'm thinking of not repairing my old stuff. This really does sound just as good -- and at this price, there's an added pleasure from -- well, GLOATING actually. It does feel good to get more than you paid for.
7 excellent buy
I was looking for a receiver so I could have Surround sound with my DVDs. There are very few low to mid level stand alone receivers (I already had a DVD player).
This one is excellent. It has enough inputs that you can slowly upgrade parts one at a time (flat panel TV, DVD player, game console, CD-player, etc.). I bought 5.1 speakers, but it's possible I could upgrade to 6.1. It also has A/B speaker inputs so I can set up anouther room with music.
An excellent buy. Great price too.
8 How to use the remote control
Problem with the remote for this unit? That's because you didn't read the manual. This remote control unit is FANTASTIC - it goes for all you other gadgets as well! Use one unit to change channels on your TV - to run your DVD-Player etc etc. All you need to do is FIRST to press the button of the system you want to use (e.g. DVD Player) and THEN press the button of what you want this unit to do. Therefore, to turn your DVD-Player on, you need to press DVD and then "Power on". It's that simple - but you have to know it. If you only press power on, nothing will happen, as you didn't chose the source system first...
Got it? To play a movie on your DVD player, press "DVD", then "Play".
So - the Panasonic SA-HE 100 is a fantastic thing to own and the remote replaces all your other remote control units!
9 An excellent value
This receiver is a very good piece of equipment for the money. The controls are simple and it is easy to operate for the non-technical person. It puts out more than enough power for a normal home theatre installation. While it may lack some of the more esoteric features that expensive receivers have, these are really unnecessary for most users.
I replaced an Onkyo TX-DS555 with this unit and the Panasonic is superior to the Onkyo in all respects. My old Onkyo's volume control was very touchy (from too soft to too loud with the merest touch of the remote). The Panasonic's volume increases slowly and smoothly. At only $240 from Amazon.com, it was an outstanding bargain and is a great performing receiver. This will meet the needs of almost all home users at a very reasonable price.
If I had to cast about for a complaint it would be only that the manual was skimpy and was less than helpful on how to connect a non S-video equipped VCR to the receiver. A quick call to Panasonic's tech support line solved that (by reminding me of how I used to do it). Tech support picked up after a few minutes, a knowledgable young woman came on the line, and I was done in no time.
10 The Remote Works Fine..... All else are pilot errors!
I just got my Panasonic SA HE100 Home Theater Receiver today. I was able to set it up in about a half hour. I remembered reading the complaints about the remote on/off control. I seemed to have the same problem until I figured out what was going on. The on/off for the tuner works fine but you have to be in the "Tuner/Band" mode for it to operate on the Tuner a.k.a. Home Theater Receiver. If any of the other modes....
TV, DVD, CD, Tape etc are selected you can only turn off or on that item. If you are pointing the remote at the Tuner and it happens to be in the TV mode you can not turn off the Tuner.
I will write a more complete review in the future after I get to use my system for awhile.
11 Pretty good unit
I just wanted to quickly say that I had the same problem with the on/off button on the remote. After unplugging the unit and plugging it back in, I went through each remote setting and hit the power button...nothing happened with TV, VCR, DVD, and Audio....however, when I hit the "Tuner/Band" setting, the on/off function began to work from the remote. I don't know why it does that, but at least it now works (I did this a few times to verify that it was the Tuner/Band button that seemed to fix things).....so, hopefully the other reviewer with the problem will read this and maybe fix their remote.
In regard to the receiver, the sound is great...like others stated, it would be nice if it had more SFC settings ("stadium" sound setting for example)....also, you cannot switch from digital to analog using the remote....besides that, it's great for the price and is able to go as loud as I have needed....I actually bought this one because my old one would always have an overload...no more overloads with the SA-HE100 so far. After buying this, I upgraded my speaker system and I am a very happy man. Now I need to save for that new 51" TV....LOL.
12 Defective Product
I ordered this receiver a month or so ago, set it up and was happy with the video and sound. However, after about a week, the Power On/Off button on the remote would no longer work. So I contacted Amazon and exchanged the whole unit (had to do it this way) for a new one.
Two days ago, I unpackaged it and set it up. Worked fine.
Guess what? Today, the Power On/Off button on this remote no longers works! I'm sure this is otherwise a great, functioning receiver but I wouldn't have bought this if I knew part of it was defective.
13 Great Product!
I want to share my one month experience with this receiver. I got it for 380$ in Romania (yes the taxes are huge in Europe). First of all, the European version is slightly different. There are no component video connectors on the back, just svideo and composite. There is no subwoofer button (the sub can be configured via remote though); instead it is used for the help function. And the help button is used for RDS (Radio Data System). Maybe RDS is a European only facility.
The good news is that the SA-HE100 is for sure Dolby Digital EX compatible. It is mentioned in many places on the web, in the manual and I also found it on the Panasonic website. This is what I found on the web: "Please be advised that Panasonic SA-HE100 also has Dolby Digital EX. Up until February 2002 the only way a company could advertise Dolby Digital EX was if the receiver was THX certified. After that time the condition was lifted and now manufactures can promote this feature without THX certification. Unfortunately lifting the THX certification requirement so late in the production development of the SA-HE100 did not allow Panasonic the necessary time to change the programming code for the microprocessor, the silk screening of the unit, the manuals or the box.
To turn on DD EX with older 5.1 films simply depress the "Enhanced Surround" button. Newer films with Dolby Digital EX logo include a "flag" that will automatically turn on the DD EX decoder in the SA-HE200 Receiver.
With the SA-HE100 this "flag" is not detected. As mentioned above, simply manually select the "Enhanced Surround" button to activate 6.1 decoding. Also please be advised that with all DD EX sound tracks, the surround back channel is in Analog. Dolby simply uses a Dolby Pro Logic chip to create the surround back information from the discrete surround channels from the 5.1 recording. The manual suggests using Enhanced Surround too for Dolby EX. And this is what I found on the Panasonic main website (resellers corner): "Built-in Dolby Digital and DTS-ES decoders with Matrix 6.1 and NEO 6.1 Enhanced Surround for a 6.1 ch. surround sound reproduction (Dolby Digital EX playable).
As I had a Technics amplifier before, I was pleased with the way the receiver sounded. Although the S/N ratio is lower, this is not a problem as there is no audible noise even at high volume. I am using a pair of Technics loudspeakers for the front channels, the SB-M500. These are excellent speakers but I noticed that the bass was not very powerful at low and normal volume. So I purchased a Panasonic SB-TP10 surround system, composed of five 40W satellites and one 100W active subwoofer. For 260$ these speakers are quite decent and the low frequency problem was immediately solved! To my surprise the LFE channel works with stereo too and gives punch to the low volume auditions. Of course the subwoofer can be adjusted or even completely shut down via remote. One neat thing is that the volume of the sub is memorized differently on each surround mode. Now concerning the various processing modes, don't imagine that stereo recordings will sound better with Prologic II or NEO:6 because they don't. Thankfully the stereo mode is gorgeous. This is really a good hi-fi amplifier with a great sound and a good power reserve. And it is DVD Audio compatible! There were some concerns about the heat generated by the amp and the fact that the players piled upon it could be affected. This is not a problem, I have the tape deck and DVD over the receiver and even at sustained high volume its surface temperature never went over 40C (104F). The receiver is great for movies too, giving a new dimension to the experience. Be advised that you will need an extra speaker for the central rear channel. If you already have large hi-fi speakers for R and L you can use one of the satellites for RC (rear center). I haven't found any DTS ES or Dolby EX DVD's, but the RC can be used even with normal 5.1 sound and it works pretty well. The tuner part is quite complete, with auto tuning and station name display. There are also PTY (program type) and RT (radio text) functions. There is a sleep timer and a wake function. As mentioned before the manual is a joke, but I had fun discovering the numerous and sometimes undocumented features. It's like they had this super versatile product and they were afraid people would be frightened by the possibilities and so they hid them! The remote is ok, working with my other Panasonic products, and though some of the features are not accessible through it (treble, balance, etc.) they are not important. I never had any trouble in 10 years with any Panasonic/Technics product and I believe they are built better than other similar brands at the same time offering many more features. It is 200$ cheaper than the Sony equivalent (STR-DB1080)!
What I don't like: lack of a second Tape or Aux input, no analog/digital input selection via remote and no enhanced surround/NEO:6 switching through the same remote. These are just some small nags that don't affect the great value of this receiver. I am pleased and will look for Panasonic products in the future too!
14 Does the Core Job 100%, Skimps a Few Frills
This was my first purchase when putting together my home theater system, based on Consumer Reports' recommendation. I still can't believe what a value I got for the money spent.
Does the job of decoding every type of DTS signal (even DTS-ES Discrete) and Dolby signals up to Dolby Digital 5.1 (however no Dolby Digital EX). One of the few receivers in any price range that is rated to power 4 Ohm speakers (albeit front only), and puts out more power than many [other]models. And of course the sound is great.
This is the core of my system consisting of a 30" HDTV and 6.1 speaker setup. I will say that I am now limited on my digital inputs, having my PS2, DVD player, and laptop all giving it digital (via Toslink optical) audio; if I ever get digital cable the PS2 will have to go to RCA stereo output.
Gives all the options you need for speaker setup, including filter for small speakers (100-200 Hz), individual speaker distance, and attenuation (+/- 10db).
Frills missed: radio station labeling, sleep timer, 7.1 channel out, not as many "environment" sound fields (only 6) as some, and no on-screen display. I consider these inconsequential though... the only thing I can really pick on is the "universal" remote is garbage for controlling anything else. Fortunately my TV has a good universal for controlling the receiver, otherwise I'd have to buy one.
There is a help function if there is a problem, I have never had to use it and can't speak to its effectiveness. It does require some time to setup, but no more than any other receiver should. The inputs and outputs are all clearly labeled on the back, and there is a composite video and RCA stereo connection in front for ease of use with a camcorder or video game system.
15 Excellent performance, competitive price
We bought this receiver to update our Sony analog pro-logic receiver that was still performing well (within its capability) after nine hard years in our theatre system.
The Panasonic SA-HE100 performance is excellent, as expected. The digital features result in improved realism especially in DVD mode.
There are, however, some features absent from this unit and included on the Sony, that I miss.
1.) There is no sleep timer.
2.) There is limited relative volume adjustment (+/- 10db)between front speakers and the other speakers in the theatre system. This prevents use of my TV's speakers for the center channel without an additional attenuator. (Sony had+/- 30db)
3.) No provision for title of radio stations.
4.) Not possible to operate in "surround" mode with speaker "A" (theatre speakers), when speaker "B" (speakers throughout home)is operating. (Sony didn't care.) "Stereo" is the only sound field available for theatre, "A" speakers, when 'B" speakers are in use.
5.) "Operating Instructions" contains all the necessary information to install and operate the receiver in the most complex system. Interpretation is another matter. A good deal of study is required to properly utilize the capabilities of this receiver. The Sony manual was far superior.
6.) The capability of the remote control is limited.
7.) No provision for connecting my second tape player.
16 Super Happy!
The only things I could find about this reciever that I didn't like were
1)The size; Around 5" in hight
2)You can not place anything on top of the reciever
Overall, I am very pleased with this purchase and would urge you to also purchase this reciever if you are on a $500 and under budget. Of course you can find a better reciever for about $500, but this model was Consumer Reports "CR-Best Buy" and sold out very quickly in store nation wide.
17 excellent home theater receiver
Last Christmas when I was looking to get more serious on my Home Theater I decided to go for a 6.1 system with all the bells and whistles. Basically I was looking for a Yamaha receiver but when I get to the store the saleman recommends me the Panasonic SA-HE100 (silver) it was $ 100 cheaper than the Yamaha and offers more SVideo and deck connections so I decided to give it a try, I'm using a JBL SCS-135 speaker system and I added a NS-C103 center speaker to create the 6.1 effect. It works great!!! You can control the subwoofer with a LFE and create different surround effects. Although it does not have a lot of seetings for TV programming the enhanced system covers most of it and you wont notice the difference with other more expensive receivers. Also features three digital connections for dvd, cd and a tv and dvd 6channel too!. The instructions are clearly enough for setup but the enhanced configuration is a little vage, you need some trial and error before you get it set correctly. the digital input automatically recognizes any digital connection on your system.
I recommend it for entry level and intermidiate users.
18 Great mix of features and price
I purchased this item based on it being top rated by Consumer Reports magazine. I have been very pleased with the ease in which it could be set up, and the thought that went into its design. The controls are easy to use and the sound is fine.
