The six HDMI inputs and dual outputs support the HDMI 2.1 specification, which enables higher quality content thanks to low-latency technologies, such as ALLM (Auto Low-Latency Mode) and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate). Video content at up to 8K resolution is supported, in addition to 4K at 120 Hz for smoother next-gen gameplay for two of the inputs. To improve realism, the STR-AZ1000ES supports many HDR standards, such as HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, and IMAX Enhanced.

Supporting 7.2 channels of audio at 100W per channel, the STR-AZ1000ES allows you to fill your space with enough speakers and subwoofers to replicate a theater environment. Supporting Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, object-based and height effects make compatible movie soundtracks come alive. This kind of fidelity is applied to music as well, with Hi-Res, Hi-Res Wireless, and 360 Reality Audio support, making you feel as if the artist is with you in the room.

 

These audio technologies are joined by room calibration technologies that work to create a sound reproduction that’s custom to your environment. 360 Spatial Sound Mapping reproduces a physical sound field to emulate a movie theater or concert hall. Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX precisely corrects the distance, angle, sound pressure, and frequency response of each of your speakers to create the ideal sound field.

Two different center channel modes can be used to alter how this primary speaker is used when watching TV and movies. Acoustic Center Sync matches the audio to your compatible BRAVIA TV. Center Speaker Lift raises the center speaker sound to match what’s on TV.

Thanks to built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Ethernet connectivity, you can stream music, podcasts, and internet radio from a local media library or hundreds of online services. The STR-AZ1000ES supports Spotify Connect, Chromecast built-in, and Apple AirPlay to expand your streaming options.

The STR-AZ1000ES is made to work with your existing SONOS speaker system. From the SONOS app, you can turn on the receiver, switch to the desired input, and adjust the volume.

Using Google Assistant and working with Google Home, the STR-AZ1000ES can connect to compatible smart speakers in your home, letting you use your voice through them to operate the receiver.

With the Sony Music Center app installed on your smartphone or tablet, you can remotely control various aspects of the STR-AZ1000ES. Control source selection, zone, sound field, volume, media playback, and setup your voice assistant.

Seamlessly integrate the STR-AZ1000ES with your Roon system for full access to all of your music, including digital files and streaming services in one place.

The solidly built STR-AZ1000ES features a sub-chassis structure on the rear of the front panel to increase overall rigidity, and has the added benefit of reducing vibration. Inside is a new DAC that supports 32-bit processing of PCM and direct native DSD signals. There are also a variety of newly designed components and circuit boards that all work to reduce resonance, lower impedance, and provide a more stable, clear audio signal.

• DSEE Ultimate support for accurate AI-based upscaled audio to near-high-resolution quality
• A large power transformer and newly designed power supply capacitors work to improve sound quality through better stability and lower distortion
• Compatible with custom wall installations
• Supports leading control and remote monitoring systems, such as control4, Savant, Crestron, and OvrC
• Easy setup via front-panel controls or on-screen GUI
• Two IR repeaters for external device control
• Front USB-A port for applying system updates or saving settings to port to another receiver
• RS-232C port for control system configuration
• Web UI can be unlocked with a firmware download