Good music can help enlighten your moods, and there is a great deal of joy that music brings in our lives. However, AV receivers play a critical role in the quality of sound you’ll receive, as they can make or break your overall music experience.
Sony stereo receivers are known for their rich and warm stereo sound reproduction, and that’s exactly what Sony STRDH 190 provides. It is a value-packed unit that combines an intuitive screen interface and Bluetooth connectivity to make switching between audio sources quick and easy.
So what’s makes this Sony model stand out from the rest? Let’s dive in!
Sony STRDH190 Specs
| Channels | 2 |
| Output power | 200 Watts(100 watts per channel) |
| Speaker Impedance | 6–16 ohms |
| Network connectivity | Bluetooth |
| Output terminals | A/B |
| Radio tuner | FM |
| Tuner presets | 30 Stations |
| AC Input Power | 120 VAC, 60 Hz |
| Weight | 14.8 lbs. / 6.7 kg |
Sony STRDH 190 Review
The Sony STRDH 190 is a workhorse when it comes to stereo sound, and it is a perfect option for music-only listening. It offers a simple speaker configuration, but it delivers top-quality audio. Although it is not optimized for video and surround sound, it is one of the best stereo AV receivers for serious music listening.
Core Features
Powerful amplifier design: The Sony STRDH190 features a discrete two-channel amplifier that makes music listening immensely enjoyable. It delivers up to 100W (100×2) at 8 Ohms to let you enjoy quality sound from a modest budget. This receiver is also equipped with a relatively large capacity power transformation to provide the best sound possible and let you enjoy a clean playback for your favorite tracks.
Made for Hi-Res Audio: The STRDH190 is made to process and encode high music files using higher sampling rates than that of standard CDs. The receiver is capable of reproducing full-range sound from multiple digital audio formats such as FLAC, DSD, and more. And despite the simple configuration, this stereo receiver provides the opportunity to enjoy higher quality music.
A/B speaker function: The STRDH190 is equipped with an A/B speaker connection function for flexible speaker installations. With this function, you can use two sets of speakers (4 speakers) as front speakers to enjoy music in the main listening area. Alternatively, you can decide to run your speakers in separate locations and listen to the same audio or play different music for each zone.
However, with only two channels of amplification, surround sound reproduction is not catered for. So, if you’re more into movie watching than music listening, then the STRDH190 may not be the best option for you.
Inbuilt Bluetooth connectivity: The Sony STRDH190 2-channel home stereo receiver supports both analog and Bluetooth connectivity to provide easy wireless streaming. With the inbuilt Bluetooth, you can stream music from supported devices while controlling the system from your phone. It also means that you can convert your receiver to a wireless system while allowing you to send your favorite albums from your phone to the speakers.
Additionally, the Bluetooth standby mode is designed to automatically turn the receiver on from any Bluetooth paired devices such as a phone or tablet. However, the standby feature is only available to use with paired devices only. You’ll also need to connect your speakers to an AC outlet to access the standby function.
Low profile design: The Sony STRDH190 stands 5 ¼ inches tall, making it easy to fit in slender AV cabinets. It is an excellent choice for use in spaces that conventional stereo receivers can’t fit. On top of this, the unit comes with a rigid and reinforced chassis designed to enhance sound and reduce vibrations.
The design also incorporates heat sink technology which helps to keep the transmitted vibrations to the minimal. In addition, the chassis is also designed to eliminate interferences from any magnetic field.
Unlimited connection options: The STRDH 190 comes with several inputs and outputs to let you connect all your equipment. It provides up to four RCA inputs that you can use to connect your audio components including, a CD player and most recording devices.
You can also use the included phono input to hook up a turntable and experience optimal performance. The unit is compatible with both Sony PS-LX300USB and PS-HX500 turntables.
The STRDH 190 also provides one headphone output for private/late-night music listening.
Integrated FM tuner: The STRDH 190 has incorporated an FM tuner in its construction to let you access free FM content. This receiver allows you to scan and save up to 30 presets stations, so you’ll not regret this purchase. However, it does not support AM radio signals. If you need a stereo receiver that includes both AM and FM tuner, the Onkyo TX-8220 is a perfect budget-friendly option.
What we like
- Flexible installation
- Quality sound without breaking the bank
- Easy connection to audio equipment
- It includes a sleep timer that can be set for up to 2 hours
- The STRDH 190 comes with a convenient Sony remote control
- Reduced distortion
What we don’t like
- Inability to fill larger rooms with sounds
- Limited network connectivity— It does not support Wi-Fi
- It does not offer a surround sound listening/viewing experience
Wrapping Up!
Having a great stereo sound doesn’t have to cost you a ton of cash. The Sony STRDH 190 is a solid stereo receiver with great features for music. It is also easy to set up, plus its slim design makes it a good option for people with limited space. And despite its modest price, the STRDH 190 is loaded with tons of features that you would expect from a high-end model.
However, the unit does not have Wi-Fi, so you can neither stream music from online streaming options nor use an app to control the receiver. That said, the Sony STRDH 190 offers good value for the money, and it delivers clean and powerful sound in most rooms.
We hope that this Sony STRDH 190 review has given a solid foundation as you plan to build or upgrade your home entertainment system.
