Sony
STR-AZ7000ES
Best flagship receiver for audiophiles building an elite home theater system.
Experience unparalleled home theater with the Sony STR-AZ7000ES, a flagship 13.2-channel A/V receiver. Delivering 150W per channel, it supports advanced audio and video technologies like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, and 8K/4K120 HDMI 2.1. Seamlessly integrate with Sony's wireless speakers for a flexible setup. Its 360 Spatial Sound Mapping calibrates audio precisely for your room, while innovative center channel enhancements improve sound staging. With comprehensive streaming options and premium ES build quality, this receiver is the ultimate hub for high-fidelity entertainment.
$2599.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
56
/ 560
#56 in Audio & Video Receivers
Price vs Category Average
-1%
Below average
Channels
13.2
Who it's for
- Home theater enthusiasts building massive, high-power immersive audio systems
- Audiophiles prioritizing premium build quality and long-term component reliability
- Hardcore gamers needing seamless 8K and 4K high-refresh-rate video support
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious shoppers seeking high-end performance at a lower price
- Advanced users requiring the granular control of Dirac Live calibration
- Owners with limited media cabinet space or poor ventilation
Performance breakdown
Channel Capacity
Thirteen channels provide an expansive, cinema-grade surround sound experience.
Video Throughput
HDMI 2.1 support ensures flawless 8K and 4K/120Hz gaming performance.
Spatial Calibration
360 Spatial Sound Mapping creates precise, room-filling audio environments effortlessly.
Build Integrity
Premium ES construction guarantees long-term durability and high-fidelity signal stability.
Connectivity Versatility
Comprehensive streaming options integrate seamlessly into any modern smart home.
Power Delivery
Robust amplification drives demanding speaker setups with clean, consistent power.
Key Specs
Channels
13.2
Power Output
150W per channel (8 ohms, 1kHz, 2ch, THD 0.9%)
HDMI Version
2.1 (7 inputs / 2 outputs)
Supported Video Resolutions
8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through
Audio Calibration System
Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX and 360 Spatial Sound Mapping
Connectivity
Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 5.0
Dimensions
16.9" W x 7.6" H x 17.3" D (430.0 x 194.0 x 440.0 mm)
Warranty
Sony’s 5-Year Limited Warranty
Features
- Flagship 13.2 channel receiver with 150W per channel
- Immersive 360 Spatial Sound Mapping for precise audio
- Supports 8K/4K120 video via HDMI 2.1
- Seamless wireless speaker integration
- Advanced Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Pro support
- Enhanced center channel for superior staging
- Comprehensive streaming via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Chromecast
- Premium ES build quality with 5-year warranty
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly view the Sony STR-AZ7000ES as a flagship AV receiver delivering an unparalleled home theater experience. The core theme is exceptional sound quality, described as immersive, powerful, and crystal clear for both movies and music. Users highly value the advanced audio decoding and the highly effective Dirac Live room correction for precise calibration. Beyond audio fidelity, the receiver earns praise for its robust build quality, reflecting its premium designation and suggesting long-term durability. Its comprehensive modern connectivity, including 8K passthrough, ensures future readiness. While premium priced, the consensus is that the reference level performance justifies the investment for serious enthusiasts, solidifying its status as a top-tier choice.
Know before you buy
This is a 13.2-channel receiver, meaning it can power up to 13 discrete speakers and two subwoofers simultaneously. This high channel count allows for expansive, high-end home theater configurations like 7.2.6 or 9.2.4 setups.
Yes, the STR-AZ7000ES features HDMI 2.1 ports that support 4K/120Hz pass-through. This ensures you get the smooth frame rates and low latency required for high-performance gaming.
The receiver is designed for seamless integration with compatible Sony wireless speakers. This allows you to add wireless rear or surround channels to your setup without needing to run cables across your room.
360 Spatial Sound Mapping uses the receiver's calibration system to create multiple 'phantom' speakers around your room, even if your physical speaker placement isn't perfect. It is highly recommended if you want a more immersive, theater-like soundstage in a room with challenging dimensions.
No, the STR-AZ7000ES does not include a dedicated phono input. If you want to connect a turntable, you will need to use an external phono pre-amplifier connected to one of the analog audio inputs.
The receiver includes specific processing to improve center channel clarity, which is essential for keeping dialogue crisp and intelligible during movies. It helps anchor the sound to the screen, ensuring voices don't get lost in complex surround sound mixes.
Yes, it supports multi-room audio, allowing you to stream music to different zones throughout your home. You can easily manage your audio via integrated platforms like Chromecast built-in and AirPlay 2.
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