When taking the STR-DG820 out of the box for the first time, it is easy to see how the very competitive price has been achieved. The unit weights a little lighter than we were expecting, and the build quality whilst perfectly adequate is not in the bulletproof category. Looking at the Sony 820 you will either be disappointed by its simple looking design, or delighted by it – its clean lines and well placed knobs making the often dauting world of separates amplifers seem much more accessible, but this may not appeal to some.
The design and build do make a hint towards its budget price, but this certainly does not tell the full full story of its capabilities. As well as providing the standard requirements of Dolby Digital and DTS decoding, one of the big selling points of the Sony STR-DG820 is the ability to decode Dolby True HD and DTS Master high definition sound. This makes it an ideal amplifier to use as the hub of your system with the ability to accept up four HDMI inputs as well as the usual optical and component.

Whilst the features and build are an important factor in deciding which amplifier to go for, the performance is always going to make or break your decision. Fortunately, the Sony STR-DG820 doesn’t disappoint in this area, it positively excels. Performance from the amplifier is powerful and controlled and whilst its not up with the best, for the price it is very impressive giving a quality of surround sound that will surprise and delight. Even stereo music, a traditional weak point of home cinema amplifiers is enjoyable with the 820. You can also of course connect a suitable digital music player like the Cowon iAudio to the amplifier so you can enjoy your digitally store music too.

Why you should buy the Sony STR-DG820

For the money you’ll pay, the Sony 820 does much more than you could expect of it. The sound is great and all the features you really need are there – it is an easy purchase decision at this price point.

Why you should not buy the Sony STR-DG820

Whilst having four HDMI inputs should be enough for most people, only one HDMI output may be limiting for people who want to run video to two displays (a projector and an LCD for example) as might the lack of multichannel inputs. The unit also lacks an ‘on volume’ setting so if you’ve cranked it up for a loud movie session, make sure you turn the sound down before you turn it off! There have also been some issues with surround sound using a Sky+ HD box with earlier models, but this has now been fixed.

Summary

Available in black or silver, the Sony STR-DG820 is a fully featured and great performing high definition amplifier and when combined with a carefully chosen set of speakers will easily outperform many all in one systems for a similar price. A fine purchase.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

It certainly is quite an interesting development in the DVD and Blu-ray rental market, but if you’re like us, your first thought will probably be to wonder exactly what films they have exclusive on. Well, as of January 2009 the current selection includes the latest Saw sequel (‘Saw V’), ‘Changeling’ starring Angelie Jolie, ‘Righteous Kill’ with Pacino and De Niro, ‘Ghost Town’ starring Ricky Gervais and and our favourite of the lot, ‘Body of Lies’ with Leonardo DiCaprio and Russell Crowe. These aren’t straight to DVD releases either, but major Hollywood films. So if you’re desparate to see or buy any of those films as soon as you can, then you can only do so from Blockbuster.

The exclusivity Blockbuster have on these titles is fairly short lived though. Take Body of Lies for example – it is available to rent from Blockbuster on the 6th March 2009 but you’ll only have to wait until the 23rd March 2009 if you want to buy or rent it from anywhere else – just over a two week wait.

But even with only a short exclusive period, it would seem that Blockbuster now makes the obvious first choice when choosing your rental provider, and it could even be worth jumping to them from your current provider. Well, there are a few other things to consider first…

Why you should use Blockbuster as your online DVD and Blu-ray rental service

If you like to see films before anyone else, and you watch a lot per month, and you are more mainstream in your viewing habits, then Blockbuster is your best choice as your DVD rental provider. As we found in our recent round-up of DVD rental services their selection of films is massive, and although it might not include some of the more obscure movies, they are likely to have everything you could want. Their prices are pretty much the same as the other big rental providers as well.

Why you should NOT use Blockbuster as your online DVD and Blu-ray rental service

If you rent about two movies a month and are not particularly bothered about waiting a couple of weeks to see what could only be a very small selection of films, then Blockbuster is not for you. The basic package from LoveFilm and Tesco is over £1 cheaper per month than the equivalent at Blockbuster so makes a better option. If you’re into more critically acclaimed and specialised films, then we still think Cinema Paradiso is the best option. Read out article on DVD rental services to find our the best service for you.

Summary

So there you have it, if you’re fairly easy going about when you see your films, then think of Blockbusters deal as as more of a delay than an exclusive. However, if there is a film if you’re itching to see (and we’ve all been there) then any wait will be too long and you’ll want to see it as soon as you possibly can – and that could only mean with Blockbuster.