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Sony aims to simplify custom installs with new ES Z Series A/V receivers

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sony unveils new es z av receiver line designed simplify custom installs str za3000es
Image used with permission by copyright holder
Today at the CEDIA Expo in Denver, Sony unveiled three new power-packed AV receivers, fleshing out the ES receiver line with its new ES Z Series. The ES Z receivers are loaded with goodies aimed at those looking for more custom integration of home automation features and device connection. As Sony puts it, the series is designed “for the custom installation market with the installer top of mind.”

All of the new devices are constructed around an easily accessible user interface, offering a broad-faced front panel loaded with control keys beneath a magnetic faceplate. The receivers are designed to allow users to easily control everything in their system, from HDMI switching to In-Ceiling speaker adjustment right from the receiver, with or without the remote. In addition, Sony has redesigned the backplate for easy mounting.

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STR-ZA3000ES 7.2 Channel 4K ($1,699)

As the flagship of the new series, the ZA3000ES offers a host of high-performance audio and video options tucked behind its aluminum front faceplate. Top performance features include a claimed 110 watts of power per channel, multi-channel pre-outs, and multi-zone entertainment for up to three rooms at once, boasting dual rooms with 4K passthrough.

Connection options include 6 HDMI in (with one at the front) and 2 out, a front panel USB input, 2 component inputs, and an 8-port Giga Ethernet Hub with PoE (Power over Ethernet) for multiple connection and routing options. Also included are 3 12-Volt triggers to allow powering on of multiple devices.

STR-ZA2000ES 7.2 Channel 4K ($1,399)

The second tier in the series, the ZA2000ES is a slightly pared down version of its pricier sibling. The most notable exclusions for the device include a slightly lower power output of a claimed 100 watts per channel, a single 12-Volt trigger, as well as the lack of an 8-port Giga Ethernet Hub, allowing for fewer routing options.

STR-ZA2000ES
Image used with permission by copyright holder

STR-ZA1000ES 7.2 Channel 4K ($899)

Offering an extremely affordable alternative in the ES Z family, the ZA1000ES loses a few more features from the 2000ES, but still packs a nice whollup for the price. Features left off the list include the lack of an aluminum faceplate, no front HDMI input, and a still-lower power output of a claimed 90 watts per channel. Still, for its modest price point, the 1000ES looks to be a serious contender, offering some impressive value in the A/V space.

Below is a full list of specs released by Sony for each of its new receivers:

STR-ZA3000ES 7.2 Channel 4K AV Receiver

  • 110W per channel
  • Optimized chassis and internal circuitry for incredible audio performance
  • HDMI 6 in/2 out (4K) with HDCP 2.2 support (1-main theater 4K, 1-2nd Zone 4K)
  • Flexible HD connectivity with 8 assignable inputs (6 HDMI, 2 component)
  • 8-port Giga Ethernet Hub with PoE (x2) support for flexible connectivity
  • Convenient front USB for system updating and setup
  • Seamless IP Control Integration
  • Supports 4K upscaling and pass-through with 3D and full TRILUMINOS color support
  • 3, 12-Volt triggers for triggering external peripherals, amplifiers, etc.
  • 3, IR repeaters (1-in, 2-out) for external device control
  • Supports Digital Cinema Sound, Dolby, and DTS digital surround codecs
  • In Ceiling Speaker mode for those with overhead speaker configurations
  • HDMI, Digital (Optical, Coaxial), Analog 2nd Zone Out
  • Aluminum front panel, faceplate
  • Powered Zone 2Zone 2,3 variable line out
  • Multi-channel Preout
  • Front HDMI in

STR-ZA2000ES 7.2 Channel 4K AV Receiver

  • 100W per channel
  • Optimized chassis and internal circuitry for incredible audio performance
  • HDMI 6 in/2 out (4K) with HDCP 2.2 support (1-main theater 4K, 1-2nd Zone 4K)
  • Flexible HD connectivity with 8 assignable inputs (6 HDMI, 2 component)
  • Convenient front USB for system updating and setup
  • Seamless IP Control Integration (1-port)
  • Supports 4K upscaling and pass-through with 3D and full TRILUMINOS color support
  • 1, 12-Volt triggers for triggering external peripherals, amplifiers, etc.
  • 3, IR repeaters (1-in, 2-out) for external device control
  • Supports Digital Cinema Sound, Dolby, and DTS digital surround codecs
  • In Ceiling Speaker mode for those with overhead speaker configurations
  • HDMI, Digital (Optical, Coaxial), Analog 2nd Zone Out
  • Aluminum front panel, faceplate
  • Powered Zone 2
  • Zone 2,3 variable line out
  • Front HDMI in

STR-ZA1000ES 7.2 Channel 4K AV Receiver

  • 90W per channel
  • Optimized chassis and internal circuitry for incredible audio performance
  • HDMI 6 in/2 out (4K) with HDCP 2.2 support (1-main theater 4K, 1-2nd Zone 4K)
  • Flexible HD connectivity with 7 assignable inputs (5 HDMI, 2 component)
  • Convenient front USB for system updating and setup
  • Seamless IP Control Integration (1-port)
  • Supports 4K upscaling and pass-through with 3D and full TRILUMINOS color support
  • 1, 12-Volt triggers for triggering external peripherals, amplifiers, etc.
  • 3, IR repeaters (1-in, 2-out) for external device control
  • Supports Digital Cinema Sound, Dolby, and DTS digital surround codecs
  • In Ceiling Speaker mode for those with overhead speakers
  • HDMI, Digital (Optical, Coaxial), Analog 2nd Zone Out
  • Powered Zone 2
  • Zone 2,3 variable line out

Both the STR-ZA3000ES and the STR-ZA2000ES will be available in mid-September, but those looking for a cheaper option will have to wait a bit for the STR-ZA1000ES, which is slated for release in January 2015.

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Ryan Waniata
Ryan Waniata
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Ryan Waniata is a multi-year veteran of the digital media industry, a lover of all things tech, audio, and TV, and a…
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