Are you excited to unleash the audio prowess of your new Sony STR DH790 receiver? With its impressive 7.2 channels, 90W per channel, and 4K HDR pass-through, this receiver is capable of delivering an immersive cinematic experience in the comfort of your own home. However, to get the most out of this powerful device, you’ll need to set it up correctly. In this article, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide on how to setup your Sony STR DH790, ensuring that you’re ready to enjoy breathtaking audio and stunning visuals in no time.
Preparing for Setup
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary components and cables at your disposal. You’ll need:
- The Sony STR DH790 receiver
- A power cord
- HDMI cables (depending on the number of devices you plan to connect)
- Optical audio cables (if applicable)
- Speaker wires
- A source device (e.g., Blu-ray player, gaming console, or streaming device)
Take your time to carefully unpack and organize all the cables and accessories. This will save you from potential headaches and confusion during the setup process.
Connecting Devices to the Receiver
Now it’s time to start connecting your devices to the Sony STR DH790. Follow these steps to ensure a seamless setup:
Connecting the Power Cord
First, plug in the power cord to a nearby electrical outlet and the other end to the receiver’s power input. Make sure the receiver is turned off before plugging it in.
Connecting HDMI Devices
The Sony STR DH790 has six HDMI inputs, allowing you to connect multiple devices simultaneously. Here’s how to connect your HDMI devices:
- Connect the HDMI cable to the corresponding input on the receiver (e.g., HDMI 1, HDMI 2, etc.).
- Connect the other end of the HDMI cable to the HDMI output on your source device (e.g., Blu-ray player, gaming console, or streaming device).
- Repeat this process for each device you want to connect.
Make sure to label each HDMI input on the receiver to match the device it’s connected to. This will help you keep track of which device is connected to which input.
Connecting Speakers and Subwoofers
To connect your speakers and subwoofers, you’ll need to identify the correct terminals on the receiver. The Sony STR DH790 has pre-amp outputs for a separate amplifier, as well as binding post terminals for speakers and subwoofers.
- Connect the positive (+) speaker wire to the positive terminal on the receiver.
- Connect the negative (-) speaker wire to the negative terminal on the receiver.
- Repeat this process for each speaker and subwoofer you want to connect.
Configuring the Receiver’s Settings
With all your devices connected, it’s time to configure the receiver’s settings. Follow these steps:
Setting the Input Mode
Press the “INPUT” button on the remote control to cycle through the available input sources. Select the input that corresponds to the device you want to use (e.g., HDMI 1 for your Blu-ray player).
Configuring the Audio Settings
To set the audio settings, follow these steps:
- Press the “HOME” button on the remote control to access the receiver’s menu.
- Navigate to “Setup” > “Audio” > “Audio Settings”.
- Select the desired audio format for each input (e.g., Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, etc.).
- Adjust the speaker settings, including the speaker layout, speaker size, and subwoofer settings.
Take your time to adjust the audio settings to optimize the performance for your specific setup. Experiment with different settings to find the perfect balance for your listening preferences.
Configuring the Video Settings
To set the video settings, follow these steps:
- Press the “HOME” button on the remote control to access the receiver’s menu.
- Navigate to “Setup” > “Video” > “Video Settings”.
- Select the desired video output format (e.g., 4K, HDR, etc.).
- Adjust the video processing settings, including the noise reduction and motionflow settings.
Calibrating the Receiver
The Sony STR DH790 comes with a built-in calibration feature called “DCAC” (Digital Cinema Auto Calibration). This feature uses a microphone to measure the room’s acoustics and adjusts the audio settings accordingly.
To run the DCAC calibration, follow these steps:
- Connect the supplied microphone to the receiver’s MIC input.
- Place the microphone in the listening position (e.g., where you’ll be sitting while watching a movie).
- Press the “HOME” button on the remote control to access the receiver’s menu.
- Navigate to “Setup” > “Audio” > “DCAC” > “Start Calibration”.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the calibration process.
The DCAC calibration process may take around 30 minutes to complete. Be patient and let the receiver do its magic to optimize the audio settings for your room.
Final Check and Troubleshooting
Before you start enjoying your Sony STR DH790, perform a final check to ensure everything is working as expected:
- Verify that all devices are connected correctly and turned on.
- Check that the receiver is set to the correct input mode.
- Adjust the volume and audio settings to your liking.
- Test the video output to ensure it’s set to the correct resolution and format.
If you encounter any issues during the setup process, refer to the receiver’s user manual or contact Sony’s customer support for assistance.
Conclusion
Setting up your Sony STR DH790 may seem like a daunting task, but with this comprehensive guide, you should be able to get started quickly and easily. By following the steps outlined above, you’ll be able to unlock the full potential of your receiver and enjoy an immersive audio-visual experience in the comfort of your own home. Remember to take your time, be patient, and don’t hesitate to seek help if you need it. Happy setup!
What is the Sony STR DH790 and what are its key features?
The Sony STR DH790 is a 7.2-channel AV receiver that offers a range of innovative features to enhance your home entertainment experience. Some of its key features include 4K HDR compatibility, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support, built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, and a powerful 90W per channel amplifier.
The STR DH790 also features Sony’s advanced sound technologies, such as Hi-Resolution Audio and Digital Cinema Auto Calibration, which work together to create a immersive audio experience. Additionally, the receiver has a range of HDMI inputs, allowing you to connect multiple devices such as gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and streaming devices.
What type of speakers are compatible with the Sony STR DH790?
The Sony STR DH790 is designed to work with a wide range of speaker systems, including tower speakers, bookshelf speakers, and in-ceiling speakers. When choosing speakers, make sure to select models that are compatible with the receiver’s power output and impedance rating.
In general, it’s recommended to use speakers with a sensitivity rating of 86dB or higher, and an impedance rating of 6 ohms or higher. You can also use the receiver’s built-in calibration system to optimize the performance of your speakers, regardless of their type or brand.
How do I connect my TV to the Sony STR DH790?
To connect your TV to the Sony STR DH790, you’ll need an HDMI cable. Simply connect one end of the cable to the HDMI output on your TV, and the other end to one of the HDMI inputs on the receiver. Make sure to select the correct HDMI input on the receiver that corresponds to the input you used on your TV.
Once you’ve connected your TV, you’ll need to configure the receiver’s HDMI settings to match the capabilities of your TV. This may involve enabling 4K resolution, HDR, and other advanced video features. Refer to your TV’s user manual and the receiver’s on-screen menu for more information on how to do this.
Can I use the Sony STR DH790 with my existing home theater setup?
Yes, the Sony STR DH790 is designed to be compatible with a wide range of home theater setups, including existing speakers, subwoofers, and other devices. You can use the receiver to upgrade your existing system, or as the centerpiece of a new home theater setup.
To integrate the receiver with your existing setup, you’ll need to connect your devices using the appropriate cables, such as HDMI, optical, or coaxial cables. You may also need to adjust the receiver’s settings to optimize its performance with your existing equipment.
How do I calibrate the Sony STR DH790 for optimal performance?
The Sony STR DH790 features a built-in calibration system called Digital Cinema Auto Calibration, which uses a microphone to measure the acoustics of your room and adjust the receiver’s settings accordingly. To calibrate the receiver, simply follow the on-screen instructions, which will guide you through the process of placing the microphone in various locations around the room.
The calibration system will then analyze the audio signals and make adjustments to the receiver’s settings to optimize its performance in your specific room. This may involve adjusting the speaker levels, crossover settings, and other parameters to ensure that you get the best possible sound quality.
Can I use the Sony STR DH790 with wireless speakers or soundbars?
The Sony STR DH790 does not have built-in support for wireless speakers or soundbars. However, you can use wireless adapters or streaming devices to connect your wireless speakers or soundbars to the receiver.
For example, you can use a wireless streaming device like Google Chromecast or Apple AirPlay to connect your wireless speakers to the receiver. Alternatively, you can use a wireless adapter to connect your soundbar to the receiver using a technology like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
What kind of warranty and support does the Sony STR DH790 offer?
The Sony STR DH790 comes with a limited warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of purchase. Additionally, Sony offers a range of support options, including online FAQs, user manuals, and customer support telephone and email support.
If you need to repair or replace your receiver, Sony has a network of authorized service centers across the country. You can also contact Sony’s customer support team for help with troubleshooting or general inquiries about the product.