Sony BRAVIA DAV-HDX589W 5.1-Channel Theater System
Design: The Sony BRAVIA DAV-HDX589W consists of two tall left and right front speakers, a center channel, and left and right surround-satellite speakers. Created from molded plastic and permanent grills, the speakers can be either wall-mounted or set on the adjustable stands bundled with the system. While the center channel looks bulky the satellite speakers are quite small. The system uses color-coded cables for easier connection while the rear satellite speakers can receive audio signals wirelessly. An iPod dock is also offered for direct playback.
Specifications: On top of DVDs, the Sony BRAVIA DAV-HDX589W also supports audio CDs as well as MP4 music and JPEG images off a CD or DVD. Featuring a fast five-disc disc-changer the system can even play SACD formats. Connection-wise the system offers ports for composite, component and HDMI ports along with an analog RCA connection and optical as well as coaxial inputs. You can also plug in a 3.5-milimeter line-in via the front panel. The iPod dock is compatible with fourth generation iPods or higher.
Features & Performance: While the Sony BRAVIA DAV-HDX589W does offer automatic setup modes, it has issues with its audio setup, so some manual tweaking may be required to get the best configuration. However, most of the issues are bass related, so if you love bass then it shouldn’t be a problem. Thankfully, the wireless rear speakers work fine, with no real difference in audio quality despite the distance.
In terms of performance the Sony BRAVIA DAV-HDX589W offers very good bass and rather unbalanced treble in automatic calibration modes. For the most part this is suitable for movies and the like but may put off those looking for a good audio performer. Video performance for DVD and CD movies were nonetheless good with no apparent jaggies or artifacts.
All in all, the Sony BRAVIA DAV-HDX589W offers good movie and audio quality while the wireless rear speakers eliminate messy cable clutter. Audio-wise the device is probably better for the DVD movie buff or those who love a little extra power for their bass.