Price Paid:  $0.00 from Oade Bros. Audio

Summary:
Avoid this unit at all costs. As you will read in another review here, the "tinny" audio problem can develop into a hollow distortion. I sent my unit in to Sony April 2003 and they said they were unable to repair it, and offered a rebate. They know all about this problem, so it seems. While my original unit was in for servicing to Sony, I bought a second one used from eBay. Same problem. I suspect that DirecTV has changed their audio stream compression in some fashion within the last couple of months, which has had a huge negative impact on this model's already established audio problem.

Weaknesses:
"Tinny" and compressed-sounding audio, which may become fully distorted on some channels (The Weather Channel is a prime example). This model also runs rather hot.

Price Paid:  $159.00 from The Satellite Guy

Summary:
I was new to DirecTV a coupl eof years ago, and I chose the SAT-A50 based on a friend's recommendation and on the fact that this unit had Dolby 5.1 capability w/TosLINK connection. I did the entire installation myself (with the hel pof a friend to mount and aim the dish). Overall, no problems locking on a getting started. The unit shipped with an HU card, and was recently replaced (by *demand*) by DirecTV with one of the new Beta cards they are testing (why? beats me). The one problem I've had is a periodic audion issue where channels occassionally develop a 'tinny' sound, and the only way to resolve it is to change channels, then back again. Even worse, on HBO 501, where they sometimes broadcast Dolby AC3, the audio becomes choppy, much like a corrupted data stream. Change audio formats (straight Dolby) and it's fine. Strange. Still, I'm happy with it. The remote is wonderful, with full control of the unit, plus VCR and TV remote programmability for most any unit made today

Strengths:
Easy MENU functions, Sony quality, remote (one of the BEST!), UHF remote control capable, VCR IR link-up.

Weaknesses:
Audio 'tinny-ness' occassionally on premium channels, breakup of sounds on channels broadcasting Dolby AC3

Similar Products Used:
None