If you want a straightforward stereo system for speakers + turntable + Bluetooth streaming (without a complex surround receiver), the Sony STR-DH190 is a popular choice. It offers solid power for passive speakers, a dedicated phono input for vinyl, and easy wireless streaming from your phone.
What It Is (and Why People Like It)
The STR-DH190 is a 2-channel stereo receiver. That means it’s focused on music (left + right speakers) instead of surround sound. You get the essentials: multiple analog inputs for your gear, a turntable-ready phono input, and Bluetooth for streaming. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Great “starter receiver” use cases
- Vinyl setup: connect a turntable to the phono input (no separate phono preamp needed for many turntables). :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
- Streaming music: play Spotify/YouTube/Apple Music from your phone via Bluetooth. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- TV → speakers upgrade: run a TV’s analog output into the receiver to power real bookshelf or tower speakers.
- Simple home audio: perfect if you don’t want a giant AVR menu system.
Connections: What You Can Plug In
| Source | How to connect | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Turntable (vinyl) | Phono input (RCA) | Use a turntable with MM output or built-in preamp set correctly. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11} |
| Phone / tablet | Bluetooth | Best for convenience. For maximum fidelity, use a wired input from a DAC. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12} |
| TV / streamer | Analog RCA from TV or adapter from headphone/3.5mm (depends on TV) | If your TV only has optical out, you’ll need an optical-to-RCA converter. |
| CD player / cassette / DAC | Any analog line input (RCA) | Use any of the 4 analog inputs. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13} |
| Headphones | Front headphone output | Great for late-night listening. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14} |
Setup Guide (Step-by-Step)
1) Place the receiver and plan airflow
- Give it breathing room on top/sides so it can dissipate heat.
2) Connect your speakers correctly
- Match polarity: receiver + to speaker +, receiver − to speaker −.
- Use speakers in the recommended impedance range (6–16Ω). :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
- If using two pairs (A/B), keep the total load safe—avoid mismatched/very low impedance combinations.
3) Connect your sources
- Turntable → PHONO input (RCA). :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
- Other devices → any of the analog line inputs. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
4) Pair Bluetooth (for phone streaming)
- Put the receiver into Bluetooth pairing mode, then connect from your phone’s Bluetooth menu.
- Once paired, select Bluetooth as the receiver’s input for wireless playback. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
Who the STR-DH190 Is Best For
- Vinyl listeners who want a simple turntable + speakers setup. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
- Budget hi-fi beginners building their first passive-speaker stereo.
- Apartment / living room setups that don’t need surround sound.
- People who stream a lot and want Bluetooth built in. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
Consider something else if…
- You need HDMI ARC/eARC for a modern TV.
- You want a subwoofer pre-out or advanced bass management (common on AVRs).
- You’re building a 5.1/7.1/Atmos home theater.
Buying Tips (Avoid Mistakes)
- Check your TV outputs: If your TV has only optical audio, plan for an optical-to-RCA converter.
- Match speakers smartly: Efficient bookshelf speakers can sound loud and clean without pushing the amp hard.
- Turntable settings: If your turntable has a built-in preamp, ensure it’s set correctly for a receiver’s PHONO input.
- Use decent wire: 14–16 AWG speaker wire is a solid everyday choice for typical room distances.
FAQ
How powerful is the Sony STR-DH190?
Sony lists 100 W + 100 W into 8 ohms at 1 kHz (THD 1%), and the manual also notes a minimum RMS rating of 90 W + 90 W into 8 ohms from 20 Hz–20 kHz (THD 0.09%). :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
Does it have a phono input for turntables?
Yes—there is a dedicated phono input, intended for connecting a turntable directly. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}
Can it run two pairs of speakers?
It supports Speaker A/B terminals, so you can connect two sets of speakers and select A, B, or switch between them. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}
Does it include a tuner?
Yes, it includes an FM tuner with preset support. :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}
Final Thoughts
The Sony STR-DH190 is a clean, no-drama stereo receiver: good power for passive speakers, Bluetooth for instant streaming, and a phono input for vinyl—without the complexity of a surround receiver. If your goal is great music in a simple 2-speaker setup, it’s a strong value.