While it may come with a budget price, the Sony STR-DE598 is anything but a bargain-basement home theater receiver.

With a six-channel amplifier producing 90 watts per channel into 8 ohms, as well as a pre-amp output for a powered subwoofer, the STR-DE598 is certainly no lightweight audio/video receiver. This model has built-in processing for Dolby Digital EX, DTS-ES, DTS Neo:6, and Dolby Pro Logic IIx, in addition to the usual 5.1 formats.

Just some of the advanced features on the STR-DE598's include component video switching, with two component inputs and one component output. There is an analog 5.1 connection for the output from SACD and DVD-Audio content. The STR-DE598 has four A/V inputs, including one conveniently located on the front panel, but there is no dedicated phono input.

A second set of main speaker outputs lets one set of speakers be dedicated to a home theater system and another reserved for stereo music. There are presets for 30 AM and FM stations.

Don't just pay attention to the bargain price, because the Sony STR-DE598 is a very good home theater receiver.

Warranty
2 years