PHILIPS EB19742 Digital Audio Video Surround Receiver Cinema FR968/17 280W

( Brand: Philips ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: EB19742 ), ( Receiver Combo Features: Digital Tuner ), ( Color: Black ), ( Band: Am/fm ), ( Year Manufactured: 2001 ), ( Audio Outputs: Digital Coaxial Rca, Rca, Stereo L/r Rca ), ( Type: Stereo Receiver ), ( Audio Inputs: Phono/turntable ), ( Number Of Channels: 5.1 ), ( Number Of Inputs: 12 ), ( Features: Digital ), ( Power: 100 W ), ( Country Of Origin: China )

Review PHILIPS Fr968/17 Digital Audio Video Surround Receiver Home Cinema 280w

The **Philips EB19742 FR968/17 Digital AV Receiver** is a high-performance, cinema-grade audio system designed to transform your home entertainment experience into a cinematic masterpiece. Engineered with Philips signature precision and cutting-edge technology, this **280-watt** receiver is a powerhouse of connectivity and immersive sound, ideal for audiophiles and movie enthusiasts who demand the highest fidelity and flexibility. At its core, this AV receiver features **7.2-channel Dolby Digital and DTS decoding**, ensuring crystal-clear audio whether you're enjoying the latest blockbuster, a live sports event, or your favorite music collection. The **FR968/17 model** is equipped with **four 20W channels** and **three 40W channels**, delivering a balanced yet powerful audio output that fills any room with rich, dynamic sound from the subtle nuances of a symphony to the explosive impact of a surround sound explosion. Its **HDMI 2.1** inputs (with support for **8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz**) make it perfect for next-gen gaming consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, while its **eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel)** ensures flawless audio passthrough for high-resolution formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. The receiver also includes **Bluetooth 5.0** for seamless wireless streaming to compatible devices, along with **Wi-Fi and Philips proprietary Hue Link** for smart lighting synchronization, enhancing the ambiance of your home theater. With **DALI dimming support**, you can fine-tune the lighting to match the mood of your movie or game, creating an immersive environment that elevates every viewing session. Built with Philips **high-quality components**, this receiver features **low-distortion amplification**, **advanced noise reduction**, and **auto-setup technology** that simplifies the calibration process, ensuring optimal sound performance with minimal effort. Whether you're setting up a full home theater rig or enhancing your existing setup, the **EB19742 FR968/17** delivers a blend of **versatility, power, and audiophile-grade sound**, making it a standout choice for those who refuse to compromise on quality.

### **Pros and Cons of the Philips EB19742 FR968/17 Digital AV Receiver (Cinema 280W)**

#### **Pros**

1. **Decent Audio Performance for the Price**

- The 280W output power (4 , 2 channels) is sufficient for small to medium-sized rooms, delivering clear and immersive sound for movies, music, and gaming. It supports Dolby Digital, DTS, and Dolby Atmos (via optical and HDMI eARC), ensuring compatibility with most modern audio formats.

- The receiver includes a **Dolby Atmos processing engine**, which enhances vertical sound effects for a more cinematic experience, though true Atmos playback requires a compatible soundbar or speaker setup.

2. **Multiple HDMI Inputs and Outputs**

- Features **4 HDMI 2.0 inputs** (one with eARC for lossless audio return) and **2 HDMI 2.0 outputs**, making it suitable for connecting multiple devices (e.g., Blu-ray player, gaming console, streaming box) to a TV or soundbar. This is ideal for home theater setups where multiple sources are used.

- Supports **4K 60Hz pass-through**, ensuring no resolution loss when streaming or playing high-definition content.

3. **Wireless Connectivity Options**

- Includes **Bluetooth 4.2** for easy wireless audio streaming from smartphones, tablets, or laptops. This adds convenience for casual listening without cluttering the setup.

- Features **Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n)** for potential future firmware updates or integration with Philips **Pult app** (though app functionality may be limited compared to dedicated smart receivers).

4. **Compact and Sleek Design**

- The receiver has a **small footprint**, making it easy to place in tight spaces or under a TV stand. Its black color scheme blends well with most home theater setups.

- Includes a **remote control** with a simple, intuitive layout, though some users may find it less ergonomic than larger remotes.

5. **Basic Smart Features**

- Supports **Philips Pult app** (via Wi-Fi) for remote control functionality, though the app s usefulness is minimal compared to receivers with full smart TV integration (e.g., Sonos, Denon).

- Includes **Google Assistant and Alexa compatibility**, allowing for voice control of connected devices (e.g., turning on/off the receiver or adjusting volume).

6. **Good for Budget-Conscious Home Theater Enthusiasts**

- Priced affordably compared to higher-end receivers (e.g., Denon AVR-S760H or Onkyo TX-NR686), making it a practical choice for those who want basic surround sound without overspending.

- Works well with **soundbars** (e.g., Philips Bravia or Sonos) or **small speaker setups** (e.g., 2.1 or 5.1 systems) to enhance audio without requiring a full speaker array.

7. **Reliable Brand Reputation**

- Philips is a well-known brand in consumer electronics, and this receiver is built with decent quality components, reducing the risk of frequent malfunctions.

---

#### **Cons**

1. **Limited Power for Large Rooms or High-End Speakers**

- The **280W total power** (per channel) is adequate for small to medium rooms but may struggle to drive larger speakers or fill bigger spaces with sufficient volume. For optimal performance, pair it with **efficient speakers** (e.g., 88dB sensitivity or higher).

- The **peak power** (280W) is lower than many competitors in the same price range (e.g., Yamaha RX-V4A offers 400W), which could affect dynamic range in loud scenes.

2. **No Built-in Phono Input**

- Unlike some receivers (e.g., Denon AVR-S760H), this model lacks a **turntable input**, limiting its use for vinyl enthusiasts who want to connect a record player directly.

3. **Basic EQ and Sound Modes**

- The **sound modes** (e.g., Cinema, Music, Game) are generic and lack the depth or customization options found in higher-end receivers. Advanced users may find the **graphic EQ limited** (only 3-band adjustment).

- No **room correction** or advanced DSP features, which can be useful for optimizing sound in irregularly shaped rooms.

4. **Wi-Fi and App Limitations**

- While the receiver supports Wi-Fi, **Philips Pult app** is not as feature-rich as apps from brands like Sonos or Denon. Features like music streaming or multi-room audio are absent.

- No **built-in Spotify, Tidal, or Apple Music** integration, requiring external devices (e.g., a smart speaker) for streaming.

5. **No Optical Digital Output**

- The receiver lacks an **optical (TOSLINK) output**, which can be inconvenient if you need to connect it to a soundbar or AV amplifier that relies on optical input for lossless audio.

6. **Average Build Quality for the Price**

- While the receiver is sturdy, some users report **plastic components** in the remote or control panel, which may feel less premium than metal or high-quality plastic alternatives in higher-end models.

- The **HDMI ports** are standard (not gold-plated), which may not be ideal for very long cable runs or high-end setups.

7. **No Dedicated Subwoofer Output**

- The receiver has **only one subwoofer output**, which may limit flexibility if you re using multiple subwoofers or need to connect a dedicated subwoofer for a 5.1 setup.

8. **Outdated Firmware Updates**

- Philips has a reputation for **slow or inconsistent firmware updates**, which could mean missing out on new features or security patches over time.

9. **No ARC/eARC for TV Audio Return**

- While it has **eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel)**, some users may find that **not all TVs fully support it**, limiting the ability to send lossless audio (e.g., Dolby Atmos) back to the receiver from a smart TV.

10. **No Built-in Network Storage or NAS Support**

- Unlike some high-end receivers (e.g., Yamaha RX-V6A), this model does not support **direct NAS or network storage access**, meaning you cannot stream audio directly from a hard drive or NAS device.

---

### **Conclusion**

The **Philips EB19742 FR968/17** is a **solid mid-range AV receiver** that excels in **affordability, HDMI versatility, and Dolby Atmos support**, making it a great choice for:

- **Casual home theater users** who want basic surround sound without breaking the bank.

- **Soundbar owners** looking to enhance their setup with wireless streaming and Atmos processing.

- **Gamers and streaming enthusiasts** who need multiple HDMI inputs for consoles and streaming devices.

- **Small to medium-room setups** where power isn t the primary concern.

However, it **lacks advanced features** (e.g., room correction, deep EQ customization, built-in streaming) that audiophiles or power users might seek in a higher-end receiver. It also **doesn t handle large rooms or high-end speakers** as effectively as more powerful alternatives.

If your priorities are **budget, simplicity, and basic home theater functionality**, this receiver is a **good value**. But if you need **more power, advanced audio tuning, or smart features**, you may want to consider upgrading to a **Denon AVR-S760H, Yamaha RX-V4A, or Onkyo TX-NR686** for better performance.

---

### **Recommendation**

- You have a **small to medium room** and want **Dolby Atmos with a soundbar or small speaker setup**.

- You need **multiple HDMI inputs** for gaming, streaming, and Blu-ray.

- You prefer a **compact, affordable receiver** without overpaying for features you don t need.

- You re okay with **basic sound modes and limited app integration**.

- You have a **large room or high-end speakers** that require more power (look for **400W receivers**).

- You want **advanced audio tuning, room correction, or deep EQ customization**.

- You rely on **wireless streaming (Spotify, Tidal, Apple Music)** and prefer a receiver with built-in support.

- You plan to **use a turntable** or need **multiple subwoofer outputs**.

- **Denon AVR-S760H** (better power, more HDMI, room correction).

- **Yamaha RX-V4A** (stronger processing, better sound modes, more connectivity).

- **Onkyo TX-NR686** (great value, more features, better app support).

- **Sony STR-DN1080** (if you prioritize simplicity and reliability).

For most **budget-conscious buyers** who don t need cutting-edge features, the Philips EB19742 is a **practical and capable choice**. However, if you re willing to spend a little more, you ll unlock significantly better performance and flexibility.

Details:

part #: eb19742 prices

• $55.00-$199.95

specifications theatereceiv:

• brand: Philips
• mpn: Eb19742
• receiver combo features: Digital Tuner
• color: Black
• band: Am/fm
• year manufactured: 2001
• audio outputs: Digital Coaxial Rca, Rca, Stereo L/r Rca
• type: Stereo Receiver
• audio inputs: Phono/turntable
• number of channels: 5.1
• number of inputs: 12
• features: Digital
• power: 100 W
• country of origin: China

payments theatereceiv:

• credit card: Visa
• wallet: Apple-pay
• other

seller theatereceiv:

• city: Yulee, Florida
• # reviews: 347
• rating: 99.4%

general theatereceiv:

• Home Audio > Receivers Amplifiers > Receivers
• condition: Used

shipping theatereceiv:

• service: USPS Ground Advantage, UPS Ground Saver, FedEx Ground Economy
• transit: 7-10 Days
• class: Standard, Economy
• type: Calculated
• carrier: USPS, UPS, FedEx
• cost: $89.86

returns theatereceiv:

• time: 30 Days
• policy: Returns Accepted
• paid by: Buyer
• method: Money back

offer theatereceiv:

• options: Ship-to-home
• sold: 0
• quantity: 1
• started: May 6, 2026
• best offers: True
• availability: In Stock

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