Overall Impressions and Conclusions
In an effort to provide a baseline comparison of the Sony TA-E9000ES and the STR-DA4ES (used as a Processor only), we decided to use the Aragon Soundstage. There is a detailed review on this $3k Powerhouse for your additional reading pleasure. Prior to writing this section, we spent several hours switching back and forth between the TA-E9000ES, the Aragon Soundstage and the STR-DA4ES, with a host of different recordings. We carefully listened to 2-channel CD’s in analog mode, 5.1-channel DVD’s and SACD’s and compared the overall sound characteristics of each Processor. I was surprised and happy to find that the TA-E9000ES is fully capable of going up against even a ‘high end’, expensive Processor
Sony TA-E9000ES
2-Channel Mode
When comparing the 9000ES to the Aragon Soundstage in 2-channel, there’s no doubt that the Soundstage had a slight edge. When listening to a host of different CD’s and the vocals, instruments, drums and so forth, it became obvious that the Soundstage had a much warmer sound then the 9000ES. There were a few times that female vocals sounded a bit over-bright with the 9000ES.
Digital Mode
I believe this is where the 9000ES stood up and flexed its’ mighty processing power. When listening to movies, SACD’s and DVD-Audio tracks in digital, the 9000ES provided finer detail than the Soundstage. The processing power of the 9000ES provides crisp separation, with attention to details, not as obvious to hear in the Soundstage. The over-brightness of the 9000ES is still apparent in digital mode at times, but with the enhanced equalization features, I’m sure it can be nicely adjusted to compensate. Overall, the 9000ES produces a life-like ambiance and sound presence in analog and digital mode, even when compared to a far more expensive unit.
Sony STR-DA4ES
This same point cannot be made with the STR-DA4ES when compared to either the Soundstage or the 9000ES. Although the unit has a true analog bypass and provides good separation, clean sound presence and sufficient processing capabilities, it does not produce near the level of detail in analog and digital. But given it's price range, especially compared to the Soundstage, it does process well enough to fill a moderate Home Theater System.
The reverberation found in studio room acoustics in some of the SACD’s we listened to, disappeared with the STR-DA4ES. We listened several times, and verified this level of audio detail in the 9000ES and the Soundstage, but the STR-DA4ES lost it.
When using the STR-DA4ES as a Receiver, I have to admit, the power supply is much cleaner than I expected. Hiss and Hum are not present, even at high volume with no source. In general, the STR-DA4ES is a great receiver with many redeeming features. If you can handle the user interface and are interested in a host of DSP modes, then this is a good unit to consider. Keep in mind that, there are many other Receivers to chose from and consider prior to making a final decision.
For those of you that are considering replacing your 9000ES in order to obtain 6-channel input, or ES rear center speakers, I suggest holding off and seeing where these formats end up prior to making such a leap.
