Sony STRDE697 Audio / Video Receiver

90 watts x 7 into 8 ohms (20-20,000 Hz) at 0.09% THD * Dolby Digital EX, DTS-ES, DTS Neo:6 and Pro Logic II processing * Digital Cinema Sound modes * 32-bit processor * multibrand A/V remote *

Packed with versatile features, Sony's STR-DE697 audio/video surround receiver nevertheless provides affordable entry to the exciting world of digital surround sound. The integrated surround processor/amplifier handles everything from the latest surround-sound movie formats to the latest high-resolution audio sources, pumping 100 watts per channel across 7 main channels (left, right, center, left/right mid surround, and left/right rear surround) and has a dedicated subwoofer output for an eighth (the ".1" low-frequency effects channel).

The receiver performs everything from Dolby Digital EX and DTS ES surround decoding to Dolby Pro Logic II processing (creating 5.1 channels from 2), also offering 5.1-channel analog inputs to handle music from Super Audio CD (SACD) and DVD-Audio.

The STR-DE697's FM/AM tuner features 30 station presets (20 FM, 10 AM), and the front and rear panel offer a host of video inputs--4 composite-video, 3 S-video, and 2 component-video--to simplify switching between components and your television. The component-video inputs accommodate wide-bandwidth (80 MHz) high-definition signals and work well with 480p signals such as those from progressive-scan DVD players. A set of front-panel audio/video input facilitates spontaneous hookups with camcorders, gaming consoles, and MP3 players.

The unit's 3 stereo and 1 set of multichannel analog audio inputs simplify hookup of, for instance, a cassette deck, a VCR, and a high-resolution audio device that decodes formats like SACD and DVD-Audio. A total of 5 assignable digital-audio inputs (3 optical and 2 coaxial) accept bitstream feeds from DVD players, CD players, and other digital devices, while a single optical digital-audio out channels sound to a CD or minidisc recorder.

Digital Cinema Sound System is a group of exclusive Sony algorithms (the receiver offers 11 total) that represent a total re-thinking of home theater sound based on careful measurements of movie-production dubbing stages in Hollywood. Cinema Studio EX modes offer greater apparent distance from listener to screen and a full array of 10 additional virtual surround speakers.

Sound Field Link applies the last-selected sound field to an input whenever you select the input. For example, if you select STADIUM for the CD input, change to a different input, then return to CD, the receiver will automatically apply the STADIUM sound field. The supplied remote control comes preprogrammed for a range of devices.

What's in the Box
Receiver, remote control (model RM-PG413), remote batteries, a user's manual, and warranty/registration information.

1 No phono input
R.Harrison's review indicated:
"I run my ... Scott turntable through it, ... There is nothing like hearing the pops and crackles from my record albums with such depth and definition."

This would be somewhat difficult to do, as there are no phono inputs on this model.

2 Great Receiver, Even Better Price
This is my first digital receiver, and I'm loving it. I just hooked up a Sony center channel speaker (ss-cnk 10 ed), and a sony 8" sub-woofer. I already had 2 cabinet speakers (4 way 6 speakers, 70 watt max power). The sound quality is great, and the speaker setting is detailed but easy. The manual gives helpful hints of how to best surround yourself with sound. If you are more advance in knowing the best set up for your home, the customize portion allows you to arrange set ups the best.
Also, I run my Xbox, T.V. (Sharp Aquos LCD HDTV), and Scott turntable through it, which helps not only to localize my components but it does help with clairty on all fronts. There is nothing like hearing the pops and crackles from my record albums with such depth and definition. Playing video games and watching movies are a submerged experience. Before I even bought my subwoofer and center speakers, the two cabinet speakers worked really well for me with producing clear sound. I highly recommend this item not only for beginners into the foray of digital surround sound, but anyone because the price makes the purchase that much sweeter.

3 Big bang for the bucks!
This is a great receviver,I have hade mine for about 3 months and it will do everything.I have a sony DVD recorder running through it and it makes the whole room move. It's not the best but vary few would be able to tell it.