Sony’s bringing the heat with their ‘elevated standard’ series of receivers. Seemingly forgotten for the past few years, the ES receivers will be bringing some capabilities little expected from the electronics giant, especially not at this price point. We don’t have space to list all the specs on the new Sony ES line of receivers but here are some highlights:

• Faroudja Cinema Scaling
• 100 watt x 7 Amplifier
• 1080/60p and 24p capable HDMI signal
• Sirius and XM connect-and-play ready
• Multi-room audio

What this means to you: 7.1 Channel surround sound served up with a graphical user interface for even the most electronically ignorant boffins. Impressive. Make this the centerpiece for your new home theater.

Cost: $999 - $1699 @ Sony Style