09 Nov
Blog

Sony HT-A5000 Review: A Dolby Atmos Soundbar For Hi-Res Fans

Sony HT-A5000.

Sony HT-A5000 in the test: The Dolby Atmos soundbar for hi-res audio fans

RRP $ 1,000.00

"The Sony HT-A5000 rocks with every sound format and every connection option we could wish for."

advantages

  • 8K capable HDMI input

  • Excellent film and music sound

  • Easy on-screen setup

  • Tons of connectivity options

  • High definition, Sony 360RA and DTS: X

disadvantage

  • No EQ settings

  • Some attitudes are buried

  • Bad integration of music services

At the high end of the soundbar market, you can find great Dolby Atmos compatible models like the Sonos Arc for $ 899, the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 for $ 899, and LG's SP9YA for $ 1,000. And now you can add Sony's $ 1,000 HT-A5000 to that list. Wondering how it compares to the rest of the world – and to Sony's flagship HT-A7000 for $ 1,300? Let's check it out.

Big and easy

Sony HT-A5000.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

In terms of design, the HT-A5000 (which we will simply call the A5000) is not very visible. The HT-A7000 lacks the glass cover and the cloth-wrapped speaker grilles, instead they have been replaced by a simple, textured black plastic housing and gray speaker grilles made of metal. It won't win beauty pageants, but that's a good thing. Personally, I think soundbars shouldn't draw attention to themselves visually as it could detract from their main purpose – to enhance the sound of your TV that your eyes should be focused on.

However, the size is more important. At 47.75 inches wide by 2.75 inches high, the A5000 should have no problem finding a home in front of everyone but the smallest TV. Sony even claims that their Bravia TVs can accommodate the A5000 between their movable legs, but I don't recommend that – any soundbar with speakers facing up should be placed as close to the front as possible to give those drivers every opportunity to hear the sound align with your ceiling, unimpeded.

The HDMI input can process 8K, Dolby Vision and 4K at 120 Hz, making it as future-proof as possible.

Sony also has everything you could need right in the box: soundbar, wall mounting hardware, HDMI and optical cables, a remote control and an analog patch cable to connect a compatible Bravia TV. Yes – if you are the lucky owner of one of Sony's 2020 or 2021 Bravia TVs, you can use this cable to hijack the TV's built-in speakers and let them enhance the soundbar's center channel audio. Unfortunately, I haven't tested this feature without one of these TVs.

HDMI in, HDMI out and 8K

Sony HT-A5000 input ports.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

Some soundbar companies (ahem, Sonos, Bose) believe that a single HDMI ARC / eARC port should be enough for everyone. I disagree – and luckily neither does Sony. The A5000 has both a dedicated HDMI input and an HDMI ARC / eARC input / output. Better still, the HDMI input can pass 8K, Dolby Vision and 4K signals to your TV at 120 Hz, making it as future-proof as possible. There's also an optical port if your TV doesn't support HDMI ARC, but the A5000 drops the A7000's analog input.

When it comes to the ability to wirelessly connect to a speaker, the A5000 has it all.

Why is an HDMI input important? Aside from replacing the HDMI input on your TV that you had to sacrifice to connect the soundbar, with older TVs we can connect Blu-ray players or streaming media devices directly to the soundbar. This bypasses the inherent sound quality limitations of HDMI ARC connections that are imposed by televisions that do not have HDMI eARC. There is a lot to unpack. Instead of filling the space in this review with the full explanation, please read our guides on HDMI ARC / eARC and Dolby Atmos. If you care about the best possible audio quality, you'll thank me.

These ports are packed very tightly into a small recess on the back of the A5000, making them difficult to use, but as long as you don't have to access them often, you shouldn't be too hurt by it.

Setup on the screen

Sony HT-A7000 Dolby Atmos Soundbar system message on the screen.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

Speaking of HDMI, the A5000 repeats one of my favorite functions of the HT-A7000 – the setup process and on-screen menus. Using a smartphone app to set up a speaker isn't difficult, but being able to use your TV's screen while sitting back on your sofa with the remote in hand is much better.

From the initial connection, to adding the A5000 to your Wi-Fi network, to quick automatic room calibration, Sony makes it easy and – dare I say it – fun. And you can always press the home button on the remote and navigate the soundbar's on-screen menus, which is much more convenient than reading on the small scrolling digital display behind the speaker grille or pulling out your phone.

Connections galore

Sony HT-A5000 screen display.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

I have to give it to Sony. When it comes to the ability to wirelessly connect to a speaker, the A5000 has it all. Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, Chromecast – choose your favorite. The Bluetooth connection, which is hardly a minor matter with many soundbars, is also convincing with the support of the Sony LDAC codec, so that you can stream in the highest quality from an Android mobile phone. You can also use LDAC for a high quality wireless connection to a compatible Bravia TV if you want to be completely wireless.

Thanks to the exceptional support for high quality wireless streaming, music generally sounds great.

These options mean that regardless of which phone you have or which music streaming service you subscribe to, you can get the most out of the A5000's features. And given the growing support for lossless, high-resolution audio from Apple Music, Amazon Music, Tidal, and others, these benefits are no longer theoretical marginal cases.

Sony cleverly offers you the option of switching the Bluetooth function from receiving to sending (again with LDAC support) so that you can use any set of wireless headphones or earphones for private listening.

Great for music, even better for movies

Sony HT-A5000.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

OK, to the point: how does that thing sound? Damn good. If you stick to the basic mode of the A5000 (with the Sound Field function switched off), you will get perfectly clear and balanced stereo sound. It's great for sitcoms, news shows, and comedy specials – basically anytime you want to focus on dialogue. In this mode, the bass remains mellow even with the subwoofer set to the maximum and offers just enough bass to give the voices more depth and some weight to the background soundtrack.

It's also the preferred mode for listening to two-channel stereo music, especially if you're a purist looking to keep additional digital processing to a minimum. And thanks to the soundbar's exceptional support for high quality wireless streaming, music generally sounds great.

The only downside is there's not much you can do if you don't like the way Sony tuned the A5000. I have sued Sony for missing EQ adjustments on their expensive A7000 and will do it again for the A5000. It's an odd choice for a company that offers extensive EQ options for their wireless headphones and earbuds.

Dolby Atmos movies have all been rendered with this key ingredient – sounds that seem to be coming from everywhere.

If you have a Tidal HiFi or Amazon Music subscription, you owe it to yourself to try tracks mastered using the Sony 360 Reality Audio (360RA) format that the A5000 supports. Simply put, 360RA tries to mimic the sound of a live performance indoors by using surround sound technology to give the music an open, airy feel. As with Dolby Atmos Music, some tracks benefit more from this than others. Pink Floyd's Learning To Fly, for example, felt like it was made for 360RA, while John Mayer's I Guess I Just Feel Like seemed to lose something in the move.

But even if songs don't necessarily benefit from 360RA, sometimes the format itself is preferable when you want an ambient sound – for example, when entertaining a group of guests. I find it easier to have a conversation when the music is not directed at you, as is the case with traditional stereo. Currently, the 360RA only works over a WiFi Chromecast connection from a phone or tablet, so you cannot control it through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.

The only downside to the A5000's musical capabilities is the lack of integration of music services into the Sony Music Center app. The app lists many of the most popular services (Apple Music, Amazon Music, Tidal, Spotify, Deezer, etc.) but tapping on it will only redirect you to the service's app on your phone (assuming you have it installed). Unlike Sonos, there is no way to access Search, manage favorites or playlists, or other music service features. However, you can use the app to control multiroom audio if you have other compatible Sony speakers.

Sony HT-A5000.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

You're not buying a $ 1,000 Dolby Atmos soundbar for stereo audio. You want to be blown away by fully immersive 3D soundtracks that convey power, excitement and emotion and for that you need to enable Sound Field mode. This instantly changes the soundstage from a fairly narrow and forward-facing affair to one that spreads out across the room.

The A5000's built-in subwoofer is surprisingly powerful. For smaller spaces, that's probably all you need.

The Sound Field mode is not a 3D variant, but three – Sony's own Vertical Surround Engine, Dolby's virtualized speaker mode and DTS Virtual: X – and each has its own sound signature. Sony's version pulls back at low frequencies to create a high, wide, and deep presentation that emphasizes clarity. Dolby, on the other hand, pushes the built-in subwoofer to its limits for a thundering sound, but can introduce undesirable distortion and often cloud the mids and high frequencies. DTS Virtual: X is somewhere in between, but not Goldilocks way. It's more of a compromise.

Since each of these 3D flavors sounds so different, they can all be great choices depending on what you're playing. I found the Sony version to be ideal for native Dolby Atmos movies and music. Avengers: Infinity War, Mad Max: Fury Road and Ford v. Ferrari have all been rendered with this important Dolby Atmos ingredient – sounds that seem to come from everywhere and move in sync with the action on the screen. Wondering if you need one of Sony's wireless subwoofers? You would definitely get better low frequency effects, but the A5000's built-in subwoofer is surprisingly powerful. For smaller spaces, that's probably all you need.

I plugged a Shield TV into the HDMI input and enjoyed Dolby Atmos songs from Tidal like Save Your Tears from The Weeknd and Riders On The Storm from The Doors. Dolby Atmos Music can feel lackluster at times, especially if you're using headphones, but the A5000 lets you enjoy the emerging format to its fullest.

Sony HT-A5000 built-in display.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

But here's a tip: as with most Dolby Atmos sound bars, if you feel like something is missing – like you're not listening to an immersive mix – dive into the advanced audio settings and turn up the levels for the treble and treble Surround channels. Sony's calibration software tends to take a conservative approach that doesn't always produce the best results.

Definitely worth trying out Dolby and DTS Virtual: X's virtualized speaker mode for all content, whether it's Atmos or not, but switching between these 3D versions isn't much fun. There is no way to do this in the Sony Music Center app, including by pressing a preset button on the remote control.

Instead, you need to pause your movie or music, press the home button on the remote, then navigate to Setup> Advanced Settings> Audio Settings> Sound Field Settings from the on-screen menu. You can then choose a different 3D variant and return to your content.

This may not be too bad if it is just a question of finding the one you like the most, but since there is no way to tweak the EQ, switching between them is your only option if you want the performance of either dislike them.

Beyond the bar

Sony HT-A5000 remote control.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

As with most mid- to high-end soundbars, you can expand the sound capabilities of the A5000 by adding two Sony wireless subwoofers of your choice (SA-SW5 or SA-SW3) and a number of wireless surround satellites (SA-RS3S). This does not improve the performance of the altitude channel of the system, but it can make a huge difference to the overall level of immersion. If you have the room in your home and on your budget, I highly recommend these additions.

Our opinion

The Sony HT-A5000 offers a premium price, but offers both music and movie lovers a first-class sound experience.

Is there a better alternative?

At this price point, the HT-A5000 has several direct competitors, and all of them are excellent in their own way. The choice among them really depends on the features that are important to you. Here's what you should know:

  • If you are an audiophile, LG SP9YA is a strong competitor because, like the A5000, it supports Hi-Res audio over Wi-Fi and USB. It also comes with its own wireless subwoofer, which makes it satisfactory for movies right out of the box. It doesn't support Bluetooth LDAC or Sony 360RA, however, and its hard-wired power cord could be a nuisance for some installations.
  • If you want easy, powerful control over your music sources and multiroom audio, and want some smart home perks, drag the Sonos Arc or the Bose Smart Soundbar 900. Both don't have HDMI inputs, which limits their flexibility, but that's only a problem if you have an older TV. Both can serve as smart speakers with your choice of Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
  • If you're looking for a real replacement for a home theater system for movies and TV shows but multiroom audio isn't that important, this is it Vizio Elevate comes with a wireless subwoofer and surround satellite speakers that usually cost extra.
  • Would you like even better sound, but don't want to clutter your room with more speakers? For $ 300 more that Sony HT-A7000 is a larger, more powerful speaker (with two HDMI inputs plus one analog input) that is well worth the extra investment.

How long it will take?

Sony products are very well made and the HT-A5000 is no exception. If you are considering 8K compatibility, it could be 10 years or more before you even have to think about upgrading. And even then, it will be a choice, not a condition.

Should you buy it?

Yes sir. the Sony HT-A5000 will be a huge movie and music upgrade for any TV room in the house.

Editor's recommendations



06 Nov
Blog

TCL Roku TV Alto R1 Wireless Soundbar Review: It’s So Easy

TCL Roku TV Alto R1 wireless soundbar

TCL Roku TV Alto R1 Wireless Soundba

RRP $ 179.00

"Roku and TCL are teaming up to make the sound of your Roku TV a simple plug-and-play experience."

advantages

  • Easy setup with just one cable

  • No additional remote controls required

  • Good audio quality

  • The voice enhancement and volume control features are nice

disadvantage

  • No Dolby Atmos

  • Only works with Roku-enabled TVs

  • No audio input connectors

When building a home theater, one of the first things you can do after choosing a TV is adding a sound system. One of the easiest ways to do this is to buy one of the best sound bars out there. Let's face it, the built-in speakers in TVs won't fill the space and will help you immerse yourself in your favorite movies. Roku knows this and is committed to enhancing your audio experience while keeping setup simple. At CES 2021 in January, Roku announced a partnership with TCL to launch a wireless soundbar for Roku-enabled TVs.

The new Alt R1 is the result.

This new soundbar is designed to work seamlessly with Roku TVs and is virtually effortless to set up. Where more home theater sound systems as a bare minimum require connecting a cable to your TV – the only cable needed to set up the Alto R1 is the one that supplies power. Part of the special sauce that makes this minimalist approach possible is Roku's proprietary Wi-Fi audio streaming technology. What sounds good in theory, how does it look in reality? Follow me and I will answer exactly that question.

Can it really be that simple?

The back and connections of a TCL Roku TV Alto R1 Wireless Soundbar.Chris Wedel / Digital Trends

Unpacking the Alto R1 Soundbar only includes the 31.5-inch speaker, wall-mounting hardware, papers, and a power cord. No additional cables are included as none are required as the only connector on the soundbar is for the power cable.

My skepticism grew when I began to think that pairing the soundbar with the TV couldn't be that easy. So I turned on my 65-inch TCL Roku TV and plugged the Alto R1 into the wall socket. To pair the soundbar with the TV, press and hold the Home button on your Roku remote for 5 seconds, select Set Up Devices, then select Wireless Soundbar. After that, the TV and Alto R1 recognized each other and the soundbar processed an over-the-air software update.

Adding the soundbar to my Roku TV couldn't have been easier. There is no need to manage additional cables or remote controls. The TV will automatically know the Alto R1 is paired, and if the volume is adjusted using the Roku remote, the changes will be made through the soundbar rather than the built-in TV speakers. I use a Caavo Control Center to manage my home theater and after making a few adjustments, I controlled the volume for the newly paired soundbar.

Features and sound quality

TCL Roku TV with an Alto R1 wireless soundbar.Chris Wedel / Digital Trends

In use, the Alto R1 is just as straightforward as the setup. It's a two-channel, 120-watt soundbar that is entirely controlled by the Roku remote and your TV. However, that is not a problem. If you just want to enhance the sound of your Roku TV or use it to play music from your phone via bluetooth, this soundbar can do it for you.

While you won't find fancy features like Dolby Atmos and virtual surround sound in options like the Sonos Beam (Gen 2), The Alto R1 has a couple of tricks like the ability to bring the dialogue of everything you see more into focus and automatically lower the volume of the commercials. There is also a bass boost feature and volume control options within the sound settings that can be accessed by pressing the star button on the Roku remote.

In addition to the skepticism I had about the simplicity of setting up the Alto R1, there were doubts about the audio quality and how in sync it would be with the content on the screen. Since the soundbar is completely wirelessly connected to my TV, I expected a delay in what I saw on the screen and when I would hear it. To my delight, I didn't notice it in the least.

Roku remote control. Chris Wedel / Digital Trends

Roku uses Wi-Fi instead of Bluetooth to handle connectivity, which greatly reduces latency and increases information capacity. I've seen 4K HDR movies, live soccer matches, and regular TV programs, and it all worked wonderfully. Of course, even with bass boost enabled, the Alto R1 won't compete with a dedicated subwoofer setup, but it won't try either.

I have a relatively large rectangular living room, so it's difficult to fill it with balanced audio. The sound setup I usually use is a Vizio soundbar with two wireless satellite speakers and a wireless subwoofer – and it works. When I first started using the Alto R1, I lowered my expectations for a full-fledged audio experience. But surprisingly, the wireless soundbar did a good job.

The sound was crisp and the voice enhancement features did a good job. There was no difference between day and night, but there was enough improvement when it was on that I can safely say it was worth it. The soundbar is designed for TVs 43 inches and larger, and I think in most situations the Alto R1 will make most users pretty happy.

Our opinion

TCL Roku TV Alto R1 soundbar under a television on a media stand. Chris Wedel / Digital Trends

I'd love to say that the Alto R1 is a great choice for anyone who just wants better sound for their home theater and doesn't want to mess with a lot of setup – and I almost can. I almost say because it's only true if you have a Roku TV. Now, you don't have to have the absolute best Roku TV, but you do need a TV with a Roku built in. So if you're using one of the many great Roku streaming devices that you plug into your TV, you won't be able to use the Alto R1.

Roku and TCL had a clear focus on what the Alto R1 would be good at – straightforward set-up process and ease of use. For those two points, the two companies did a fantastic job with this product. Moving from out-of-the-box to using the soundboard couldn't be much easier. The Alto R1 does not advertise cutting edge features or even those that are becoming commonplace among other products such as Dolby Atmos and virtual surround sound. By including options like these, the other by-product would be an increase in cost, and at $ 180 it's hard to argue what the Alto R1 brings to the living room.

Is there a better alternative?

There are many soundbars out there that offer a full feature set, but are overpriced. However, if you're willing to pay a little more but don't want too much more, then the Yamaha YAS-209 tops our list of the best sound bars under $ 500 at around $ 350. This soundbar not only offers a wider soundstage with support for DTS Virtual: X, a virtual 3D surround sound profile, but also brings a quiet rumble to your favorite programs thanks to a separate subwoofer. It won't be quite as easy to set up as the Alto R1, and it will cost you a few dollars more, but the Yamaha YAS-209 offers a more immersive home theater audio experience.

How long it will take?

TCL and Roku have both been in the home audio and video scene for a while and bring that experience to the Alto R1 soundbar. Both companies have also done a great job supporting their respective products, and thanks to the Alto R1's Wi-Fi connectivity, the soundbar can receive OTA software updates to ensure it has a long life.

Should you buy it?

Yes, if you're someone who wants to be engulfed by what you see from every angle, this is not the soundbar for you. While the Alto R1 does a solid job of producing good audio with virtually zero latency, it's not a surround sound device. This is because it is limited to 2 channels and does not have the ability to replicate 360 ​​degree audio. However, if your goal is to improve the sound well beyond what your TV has built in, aren't spending a lot of money on it, and have a Roku-enabled TV, then the Alto R1 is worth considering.

Editor's recommendations



03 Nov
Blog

Bose Smart Soundbar 900 Review: Atmos Adds to the Immersion

Bose Smart Soundbar 900 close-up.

Bose Smart Soundbar 900

RRP $ 899.00

"The Smart Soundbar 900 adds Dolby Atmos for just $ 100, making it a great choice for a single speaker home theater sound system."

advantages

  • Elegant design

  • Good Dolby Atmos effects

  • Excellent music quality

  • Practical TV voice control

  • Synchronization of private headphones

disadvantage

  • Only one HDMI port

  • Simple remote control without backlight

  • Limited support for Android

When Bose launched its $ 799 Smart Soundbar 700 in the last half of 2018, it probably should have included Dolby Atmos, the highly immersive surround sound format used for both movies and music. That wasn't the case, and that gave longtime competitor Sonos the chance to jump in with its very own Dolby Atmos soundbar, the Sonos Arc, which debuted in 2020 at the same price as the non-Atmos Smart Soundbar 700.

But Bose has finally jumped on the Atmos bandwagon with its $ 899 Smart Soundbar 900. Is it worth the extra $ 100? Let's find out.

Holes in the glass

Bose smart soundbar 900.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

If you think the Smart Soundbar 900 sounds familiar, don't dream. It's a dead ringtone for the Smart Soundbar 700, right down to the classy (but slightly smudged) glass plate. The biggest difference is the matching set of racetrack-like oval holes on either end of the glass. These openings are for the additional upward-facing drivers that help the soundbar deliver the height effects that have become synonymous with Dolby Atmos.

The drivers are angled upwards so they can bounce certain sounds off your ceiling and back to your listening position. While the 900 is impressively short (2.29 inches tall) and could easily fit under most large screen TVs, don't put it there. It has to be open to get the most out of these aspiring riders.

In its black guise, the 900 pretty much disappears into the background, but if you want your soundbar to make both a visual and an audible statement, it is also available in white.

One port too little

Bose Smart Soundbar 900 ports on the back.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

You can connect the Smart Soundbar 900 to your TV with an HDMI cable or an optical cable, and Bose includes both. If you use the optical cable, you will not be able to send a Dolby Atmos signal to the soundbar even if your TV supports it. Atmos is simply too bandwidth-hungry for an optical connection – it requires the thicker HDMI cable. That's not to say that the 900 doesn't produce very visually immersive sound when used – it'll still sound great thanks to the company's TrueSpace technology – you just can't get the full Atmos experience without HDMI.

The Smart Soundbar 900 delivers beautifully clear, room-filling sound.

Speaking of HDMI: The 900 only has one HDMI port, through which it receives audio from your television and sends control instructions back to the television. For most people, this will be a bit of a nuisance as it will force you to give up one of your TV's HDMI ports and not provide you with a replacement. Depending on the number of HDMI devices you have and the number of inputs on your TV, it may even be necessary to purchase an HDMI switch.

But for the audio purists out there with older TVs, this poses another challenge. If your TV doesn't support HDMI eARC (most TVs over two years old), there is simply no way to get the highest quality audio signal that the 900 can handle, namely lossless 24-bit Dolby Atmos in Dolby TrueHD.

With other Dolby Atmos soundbars, such as the Sony HT-A7000, you can connect a Blu-ray player or streaming media device to one of the HDMI inputs on the soundbar, bypassing your TV's HDMI ARC restrictions by adding You send the sound directly to the soundbar while the video is relayed to your TV.

The Smart Soundbar 900 isn't the only Atmos soundbar with this limitation. The Sonos Arc also only has a single HDMI port.

Don't lose the remote control

Bose Smart Soundbar 900 remote control.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

While it is true that you can control all functions of the Smart Soundbar 900 via the Bose Music app (more on this in a moment), the supplied remote control should be close at hand if there are no controls integrated into the soundbar itself. The only controls that Bose installs on this smooth glass surface are for intelligent loudspeaker functions (microphone mute, action button). You need the remote control or the app for volume, mute, play / pause and other functions.

Oddly enough, Bose decided to equip the Soundbar 900 with one of its simple, non-backlit infrared remote controls, while the Soundbar 700 comes with a much fancier, backlit Bluetooth universal remote. When I asked Bose why this was the case, I was told that the Voice4Video feature (which I'll discuss below) is viewed as a replacement for most of the functions on the universal remote.

You need an app for that

In theory, you can only operate the Smart Soundbar 900 with the included remote control, but you're missing out on a lot. The Bose Music app (for iOS and Android) guides you through the setup process, including connecting the soundbar to your home's WiFi, calibrating the sound with the included AdaptIQ microphone, and setting up the Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa if you want to activate the intelligent loudspeaker functions of the 900. The connection of the soundbar to Wi-Fi is a prerequisite if you want to use one of the natively supported music streaming services, Spotify Connect or Apple AirPlay 2.

In the app you will also find all the deeper settings such as adjustments for bass, treble and treble channels as well as the dialogue improvement mode. None of this can be controlled with the remote control. The app is also the only way to confirm that the soundbar is receiving and playing Dolby Atmos.

Brilliant sound

Bose Smart Soundbar 900 close-up.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

Whether you're playing 5.1, Dolby Atmos or a standard 2-channel stereo mix, the Smart Soundbar 900 delivers wonderfully clear, room-filling sound. In typical Bose fashion, the sound signature tends to accentuate the mids and high frequencies out of the box. For music, there is a crisp, energetic sound to vocals, but it is also ideal for TV dialogues.

Bass is also abundant. But as mentioned above, to maximize the speaker's low-end capabilities, you'll need to dive into the Bose Music app as it's pretty tame the first time you set it up. I also recommend increasing the elevation channel settings. Even with my basement's relatively low ceiling height of 7.5 feet, I found that I needed the extra punch to get the most out of these upward-shooting height drivers.

It's not difficult to convince yourself that there are additional surround speakers in the room.

It does take some tweaking, but once you're done with the settings, the Smart Soundbar 900 creates a compelling Dolby Atmos sound dome. All of my Atmos test films like Mad Max: Fury Road, Ford V. Ferrari and Avengers: Infinity War sounded exciting. You can definitely hear the added dimension of the height channels, but like the non-Atmos Smart Soundbar 700, what catches you most is the incredible breadth of the 900's soundstage. Sit in the middle and it's not difficult to convince yourself that there are additional surround speakers in the room.

This is where the comparison of the 900 with the Sonos Arc becomes interesting. From a purely Dolby Atmos perspective, the Arc does a better job with height effects, and its significantly larger housing produces deeper, more resonant bass. But the Smart Soundbar 900 is better at creating a full surround sound experience, and it also offers better clarity, especially with dialogue.

Musically, both soundbars are convincing, but here, too, each has its strengths. The Arc produces a warmer bass response, but cannot quite keep up with the clarity of the Soundbar 900 in the upper ranges. Given the 900's wider soundstage, I think Bose has the edge, but that will likely depend on personal preference.

Streaming sounds

It's worth noting that Android users have less high-quality music streaming options since the soundbar 900 supports AirPlay 2 but not Chromecast. All streaming services natively supported in the Bose Music app (Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora, TuneIn, Deezer, iHeart Radio and SiriusXM) are streamed via Wi-Fi. If these services support high-resolution or lossless audio (and you have access to that level of content), you should be getting the best possible audio quality. However, if you're using Apple Music, Tidal, YouTube Music, or one of the many services not included in the Bose Music app, you're limited to Bluetooth and using either the SBC or AAC codec.

Apple device owners have more freedom of choice. With AirPlay 2, practically any music app can stream via Wi-Fi in lossless quality of up to 16-bit / 48kHz from an iPhone to the Soundbar 900, and all grouped speakers can play along from there.

This pales in comparison to the huge range of services that Sonos supports. The Bose Music app also doesn't offer the ability to browse all of your services from a single interface or create an unlimited number of favorite playlists and stations – you're limited to just six.

"Alexa, channel 33"

Bose smart soundbar 900.Your TV or streaming device may have built-in Chromecast, but the Bose Smart Soundbar 900 does not. Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

If you choose Amazon Alexa as your voice assistant, Bose offers a clever way to control your TV and cable set-top box with voice commands. It's called Voice4Video and it's configured in the Bose Music app. Once the soundbar has correctly identified your TV, cable box and local cable provider, you can turn your TV on and off and use your voice to jump to specific channels.

It's hardly anything you need, but if you want it you'll be happy to know that it works really well. I have seen only a few occasions where I had to repeat a TV-based voice command.

Multiroom audio

Bose Smart Soundbar 900 seen with Sonos Arc.Bose Smart Soundbar 900 (left) and Sonos Arc. Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

One of the advantages of having a speaker connected to Wi-Fi is the ability to broadcast multi-room audio. Here you can play a different music source on each speaker, have all your speakers play the same music in perfect sync, or split your home into speaker groups, each doing their own thing.

The Smart Soundbar 900 lets you team up with other Bose wireless speakers, bluetooth speakers, and headphones to create a whole house audio solution – a very versatile range of options. These grouped speakers can play any source that the primary speaker can access, be it Bluetooth, Bose Music's built-in streaming services, AirPlay 2, or your TV's sound. However, the management of these speaker groups is not quite as flexible.

If your group only contains Bose Wi-Fi speakers, such as the Bose Home Speaker 500 or Bose Smart Soundbar 300, you can edit the group and easily add and remove speakers as you wish. However, groups containing SimpleSync Bluetooth products like the QuietComfort 45 cannot be edited – you have to end them and create a new group with the devices you want.

Bose may not offer the same level of music controls as Sonos, but the multiroom controls are excellent.

Pssst … the children are sleeping

Bose Music app.

Bose Music app.

If you have Bose Bluetooth headphones, such as the newly released QuietComfort 45 or the Noise Canceling Headphones 700, you can pair them with the Soundbar 900 using Bose's SimpleSync technology. Most soundbars offer Bluetooth to stream music from your phone to the speaker, but very few let you do it the other way around – from the soundbar to a headphone – and it's a handy feature.

Our opinion

The Bose Smart Soundbar 700 was already a great speaker for movies and music. The only thing missing was Dolby Atmos. Now that the Smart Soundbar 900 is here, adding that missing component for just $ 100 more, it's an excellent choice for a single speaker home theater sound system.

Is there a better alternative?

For this price there is really only one alternative to the Bose Smart Soundbar 900: The Sonos Arch. They are the same price and go head to head on many functions. Both give you a choice of Google or Amazon voice assistants, both connect to music streaming services, both can be used as part of a whole house wireless audio setup, and both use just a single HDMI eARC port for the TV connectivity.

With great software from Sonos, the Arc is a better choice for all-home audio and control of your music. It also creates deeper bass and slightly more noticeable Dolby Atmos height effects. But you can't plug in headphones for private listening, the high-frequency clarity isn't as good as with the Bose, it doesn't come with its own remote control, and you can't control your TV with Alexa. It is also significantly larger and bulkier than the Soundbar 900.

One more consideration: Bose gives you cheaper options for adding a subwoofer and wireless surround speakers. You can add these to the Soundbar 900 for just $ 798. It takes at least $ 1,147 to do the same with the Sonos Arc – although you can get a much higher quality speaker set from Sonos.

How long it will take?

Bose may not offer software updates for the Smart Soundbar 900 forever, but I see no reason why it shouldn't give you great performance as long as you choose to own it. Bose products come with a one-year warranty.

Should you buy it?

Yes, unless you already own other Sonos products. In this case the Arc is the more logical choice.

Editor's recommendations



11 Aug
Blog

Sony HT-A7000 Review: A Fully-Loaded Soundbar Experience

Sony HT-A7000 Dolby Atmos soundbar close-up of the top.

Sony HT-A7000 in the test: A fully featured soundbar experience

RRP $ 1,300.00

"Great sound, ease of use, and a huge list of features make it hard to beat."

advantages

  • Great music and movie sound

  • Easy on-screen setup

  • AirPlay 2, Chromecast

  • Hi-Res Audio, 360 Reality Audio

  • 2 HDMI inputs

  • Upscaling audio to 3D surround sound

disadvantage

  • Expensive

  • No manual EQ settings

  • Subwoofer not included

Soundbars come in all sizes, prices, and configurations. Some are characterized by two-channel stereo, while others opt for 3.1, 5.1, or even 7.1 surround sound. The most powerful models have Dolby Atmos, DTS: X and often offer some form of multi-room streaming capabilities. Sony's new $ 1,300 HT-A7000 7.1.2 soundbar has all of that and more, including Hi-Res wireless audio, Sony 360 Reality Audio, intelligent upscaling of a variety of audio sources, and compatibility with Apple's home automation platforms. Google and Amazon.

Sony also gives you two models of wireless subwoofers and a pair of wireless surround speakers to choose from, but these are optional upgrades that can raise the price of the soundbar well over $ 2,000.

Do all these outstanding capabilities justify the equally high price? We put it to the test.

What's in the box?

The scope of delivery of the Sony HT-A7000 Dolby Atmos soundbarSimon Cohen / Digital Trends

The HT-A7000 (which we'll call the A7000 from here on) comes in a fair amount of Styrofoam, which is great for protection but is difficult to recycle in some places. Inside you will find the soundbar, a remote control with two AA batteries, an HDMI cable, a special analog cable to connect the bar to a compatible Sony Bravia TV (more on that later), a power cord, two wall brackets, a wall mounting template and a quick guide .

design

Sony HT-A7000 Dolby Atmos soundbar close-up of the top.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

At just over 51 inches wide, 3.25 inches high, and 5.5 inches deep, there's no getting around the fact that the A7000 is a large (and 19 pounds heavier) speaker. It's almost as wide as a 65-inch TV and, ironically, so tall that it obscures some of the undersides of Sony's own TVs, even when their stands are placed in their so-called soundbar position. Unless your TV is already wall-mounted or you intend to do so, it is best to take a few measurements before you hit the buy button.

It's great to have two HDMI inputs – on many soundbars, you're lucky enough to get just one.

Another consideration: even if the A7000 fits between your legs under your TV, you don't want to slide it too far back – its upward-facing drivers (keys for Dolby Atmos and DTS: X sound) shouldn't pass through. any other objects are covered.

But despite its size, Sony did a good job of minimizing the A7000's looks. The upward facing drivers are hidden behind black panels of fabric that wrap around the sides. The rest of the top of the bar is made of black glass. It's a fingerprint magnet, but when blemishes clean it looks really sharp. The glass houses a couple of touch controls that give you access to power, volume, source, bluetooth and a shortcut to Spotify Connect. A non-removable perforated sheet metal grid completes the picture.

Sony HT-A7000 Dolby Atmos soundbar close up of the display.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

A row of drivers sit behind this grille. They're clearly visible in these photos, but don't worry – unless you light the A7000 with studio lights like I did, you won't see it at all. What you see is a scrolling text display that gives you vital information such as the source you are playing from, volume, audio format and various other helpful messages. I'm not a huge fan of these type of displays – I find the limited space and scrolling text a bit annoying, but it's way better than a bunch of color-coded LEDs that you have to decipher (ahem, Vizio).

The good news is that Sony is one of the few soundbar companies that takes full advantage of the A7000's HDMI connection to a TV, giving you on-screen access to all of the speaker's settings and modes.

There are several ports and connections on the back of the soundbar, including two full HDMI inputs with 4K / 8K / Dolby Vision passthrough, a dedicated HDMI ARC / eARC output, an optical input, an analog input, a USB connection for Music playback and port for the Bravia center channel connector that I mentioned earlier.

Having two HDMI inputs is great – many soundbars are lucky enough to get just one – but Sony doesn't exactly make it easy to plug in all of those cables. The connectors are buried in a small cavity and packed very close together.

Unless you're going to be plugging and unplugging a lot of cables, that's not a big deal, but I'm still amazed that soundbar designers find it useful when a USB port is so inaccessible. I would choose Sony, but I've made the same choices with other brands.

Because the A7000 is a full-featured, modern soundbar, Sony's remote control design has been basically unchanged since the mid-1990s. While very functional, it's decked out with buttons, some of which will only work if you buy Sony's optional wireless surround speakers. I actually like having all of these buttons as the A7000 can partially replace an A / V receiver, but the lack of a backlight is disappointing at this price point.

Connections, setup and configuration

Sony HT-A7000 Dolby Atmos Soundbar close-up of the input connectors.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

If your TV supports HDMI ARC / eARC, which most models over the past seven years do, you can use a single HDMI cable to connect the A7000 to your TV. If your TV doesn't have this feature, you're still using an HDMI cable, but that must also be connected to an optical cable.

Unfortunately, if your TV can connect using HDMI ARC / eARC, there is no way to use the optical port as a source for another device like a CD player – if it isn't being used to receive a TV audio signal, it is essentially redundant.

Once connected, you can begin Sony's excellent on-screen setup process.

Those who use an optical TV connection won't get advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos or DTS: X from their TVs, but given the A7000's dual HDMI inputs, there are still plenty of ways to get those formats from Blu-ray players to get streaming media devices or other third party boxes.

Room calibration of the Sony HT-A7000 Dolby Atmos soundbar on the screen.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

Once connected, you can begin Sony's excellent on-screen setup process.

In less than five minutes, the step-by-step process takes you through the placement, automatic calibration, setting up Spotify Connect, Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast and Amazon Alexa integration – all without having an app on your Have to use phone or something small, scrolling display.

Not that you have to go without an app when you need it: the Sony Music Center app for Android and iOS gives you another interface for controlling the A7000, including the ability to group the soundbar with other Sony speakers.

I've struggled with speech intelligibility with other soundbars, but the A7000 is clear as a bell.

But thanks to Sony's support for all three of the major home automation platforms (Apple HomeKit, Google Home, Amazon Alexa), you can add the A7000 to virtually any multiroom scenario, regardless of whether your other speakers are Sony devices or not.

Sound quality

Sony HT-A7000 Dolby Atmos soundbar.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

As a single speaker, the A7000 does an excellent job of processing films and music. If you're wondering if Sony's claims about a built-in subwoofer are the real deal or just marketing hype, I can assure you that it's powerful enough to feel these low-frequency effects when you turn up the volume. Even better, the center channel reproduces dialogue with such clarity and precision that I doubt you'll ever need to use the included speech enhancement feature. I've struggled with speech intelligibility with other soundbars, but the A7000 is as clear as a bell.

When it comes to Dolby Atmos, the A7000 really delivers. However, the speaker's secret weapon is the Immersive AE (IAE) mode.

But regardless of the content you're playing, I have two tips that I think will help if you don't find the audio overwhelming. First, Sony's automatic room calibration appears to be taking a conservative approach to speaker levels. In my media room, the ceilings are low and the TV is much closer to the left wall than the right. If you go into the advanced settings and adjust parameters such as the level of the height and side channels and their calculated distances from your listening position, you can significantly improve the overall performance as well as immersive formats such as Dolby Atmos.

Second, the A7000 is a beast when it comes to volume. With 75% of its range, I was already well above what I could comfortably endure in my room. But I've found that around the 45-50% level there's a real sweet spot where the sound goes from good to great. I encourage you to explore all of these options to get the most out of the soundbar.

Sony SA-SW5 wireless subwoofer.

Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

SA-RS3S wireless surround speakers from Sony.

Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

Sony HT-A7000 Dolby Atmos Soundbar close up of the top speaker.

Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

When it comes to Dolby Atmos material, the A7000 really delivers – especially when you make the tweaks outlined above. The side-firing tweeters help project a wide soundstage, while the upward-pointing treble drivers create that distinctive sound dome effect that movies like Mad Max Fury Road and Ford v. What makes Ferrari so entertaining.

However, the speaker's secret weapon is the Immersive AE (IAE) mode. It is accessible at the touch of a button on the remote control and uses Sony's 3D upscaling technology. Whether you're watching 2-channel stereo TV shows, streaming music, or even playing Dolby 5.1 surround content, it will render as if it was mastered as a 7.1.2 source. Purists may find it overprocessed, especially when applied to stereo tracks, but I found it addicting.

When listening to Dolby Atmos or in IAE mode, Sony offers you the choice between three special sound modes: cinema, music or standard. As the names suggest, they offer some digital processing to enhance certain types of content. As with all types of EQ presets, you may find that they improve or detract from your listening experience – I didn't find them nearly as interesting as the Immersive AE feature itself.

But that brings us to my only real criticism of the A7000: there is no way to directly control the equalizer. No frequency-specific adjustments, no controls for bass, treble, or mids – there isn't even a loudness switch I could find.

Sony HT-A7000 Dolby Atmos soundbar.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

Not that I'd make a few gross changes to the soundbar's signature – it's already nicely balanced to my ears – but leaving out those controls on a $ 1,300 system feels untenable. If you are serious enough about your home theater sound to make this investment, you should be able to get under the hood if you choose to.

The A7000 really brings Sony 360 Reality Audio to life.

The A7000 may be the first soundbar I've auditioned that doesn't make me flinch when using Bluetooth. Using a Google Pixel 5, I streamed a variety of songs using Sony's Hi-Res wireless audio LDAC codec as well as the garden variant AAC codec and they both sounded really solid. There's usually a big leap in quality when you switch from Bluetooth to Wi-Fi streaming, e.g. Chromecast or AirPlay, but they are remarkably similar on the A7000. I attribute this to Sony's DSEEE Extreme upscaling technology, which is designed to restore lossy, compressed digital audio to an approximation of lossless audio.

I also took a quick tour of some Sony 360 Reality Audio (360 RA) tracks over Tidal HiFi to see how the A7000 handled it. This reinforced two things I already knew about 360 RA: not all 360 RA traces are created equal, and your speaker will dictate much of the experience. I wasn't particularly impressed with Sony's $ 700 SRS-RA5000, a speaker the company designed specifically to deliver 360 RA audio, but the A7000 really brings that format to life.

Tracks like Dave Brubeck's Take Five and even the much newer Invisible by Duran Duran are in no way exciting, but turn up the Everlong from Foo Fighters or The Chainsmokers and Halsey's Closer and you get a feel for 360 RA's ability to place itself In a live music environment.

Is it worth adding one of Sony's wireless subwoofers and wireless surround sounds? If you have the resources, it is absolutely something I would recommend. As good as the built-in subwoofer and side radiating tweeters are, there is simply no substitute for discreet speakers. The resulting combo is exciting in every way.

Extras

Sony HT-A7000 Dolby Atmos Soundbar close up of the remote control.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

Unfortunately, my time with the A7000 didn't give me the chance to try out every single one of its many features, but they are absolutely worth mentioning because they illustrate how thoughtful Sony has been with the development.

You can connect Bluetooth headphones for private listening. Many TVs support this, but when yours doesn't, it's really handy. Bose also offers this feature on its soundbars, but the company only promises that it will work with Bose headphones. Sony, atypical of a company that has a history of promoting its own technologies and standards, lets you use any bluetooth headset.

The Sony Music Center app gives you direct access to Amazon Music, Apple Music, Tidal, TuneIn Radio and any music on your home network, e.g. on a NAS (Network Attached Storage) drive.

As mentioned earlier, if you have a compatible Sony Bravia TV, you can connect the A7000 using a dedicated cable and use the TV's entire built-in speaker system as the center channel. I didn't have a Bravia TV available, but I suspect the sound will be pretty good, especially for dialogue and other on-screen noises.

Our opinion

Though expensive, Sony's HT-A7000 is a feature-loaded Dolby Atmos soundbar that sounds great on its own – and even better when accompanied by Sony's optional wireless subwoofers and surround speakers. With an easy-to-use screen interface, it's much more intuitive to get the most out of the speaker than some of its competitors.

Is there a better alternative?

I'm not sure if there are soundbars at this price point or below that are better than the HT-A7000, but I can think of two models that are better value for money depending on your needs and tastes:

LGs $ 1,000 SP9YA saves you $ 300 and comes with its own wireless subwoofer. Given its great audio performance for movies and music, and the ability to add wireless surround speakers later, it's a great alternative to the HT-A7000. However, it only has a single HDMI input, it lacks Sony's sleek on-screen menus, and you can't stream 360 Reality Audio. Some may also find it difficult to work with the hardwired power cord depending on the installation.

Vizios Elevate soundbar Also costs $ 1,000 and includes wired surround speakers in addition to the wireless subwoofer, which means it's a true all-in-one system. It has two HDMI inputs, but like many Vizio products, its primary focus is on being a TV companion, not a complete alternative to an A / V receiver-based system. As a result, it doesn't support Hi-Res audio (unless it's a Blu-ray Disc soundtrack in Dolby TrueHD), Apple AirPlay 2, or Amazon Alexa, even though Chromecast is on board. Still, it's a beautifully designed product that sounds fantastic.

How long it will take?

Sony builds great products and has a good track record of keeping those products updated with new software over time. I expect you will spend many, many years with the HT-A7000. With support for every audio format under the sun, it will be a long time to be considered obsolete.

Should you buy it?

Yes. At $ 1,300, it's an investment, but given its considerable capabilities and excellent sound quality, the payback will pay off over many years of audio and video enjoyment.

Editor's recommendations



04 Jul
Blog

LG SP9YA Soundbar Review: Setting A High Bar For Dolby Atmos

LG SP9YA Dolby Atmos soundbar

"The LG SP9YA soundbar transforms any room into an immersive, Dolby Atmos-powered home theater."

  • Great and immersive Dolby Atmos

  • Easy adjustment

  • Chromecast and AirPlay 2

  • Level and EQ controls

  • Hi-Res audio capabilities

  • Hard-wired power cord

  • Cannot access network music libraries

  • Only one HDMI input

LG has a good track record of making feature-packed sound bars that also produce stunning, room-filling sound. Its $ 1,000 SP9YA is the company's latest effort in the field and continues the 9-series legacy of putting a ton of audio features (like Dolby Atmos and DTS: X) into just one soundbar and wireless subwoofer. For people who want big, cinematic sound and a simple setup, it's an attractive option.

Want to know what LG has changed with the new SP9YA and how it fares? We have all the details here.

What's new?

The SP9YA takes over the baton of the SN9YG from 2020. Although the two products are almost identical, LG has made two small but important changes:

  • The SP9YA dispenses with the Google Assistant-based smart speaker function of the 9YG, but remains Google Assistant-compatible.
  • The SP9YA is AirPlay 2-capable and Chromecast-capable. The 9YG only supported Chromecast.

What's in the box?

Scope of delivery of the LG SP9YA Dolby Atmos soundbar.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

Inside the huge shipping box – which uses completely recyclable materials inside and out – you'll find the soundbar, a wireless subwoofer with power cord, two mounting brackets and screws, a wall mount template, a remote control with AA batteries, an optical cable, and some very basic quick start paper materials .

Why LG included an optical cable but not an HDMI cable remains a mystery, but you need one to get the best possible sound from your TV.

design

Like its predecessors, the SP9YA is a large, 48-inch wide soundbar that looks great in front of a 50-inch or larger TV, but could easily outshine a smaller screen. Its relatively small stature (only 2.24 inches tall) makes it unlikely to obscure the bottom of a large or small TV.

LG kept the look of the brushed aluminum finish on both the soundbar and subwoofer, a smart choice as it minimizes the appearance of a fairly large set of speakers. The only thing that breaks the otherwise seamless design is the circular upward-facing driver grille. I prefer Dolby Atmos soundbars that hide these height drivers, like the Sonos Arc and Vizio Elevate, but that's really a matter of personal preference.

A number of touch controls for volume, power, source selection, play / pause, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi are conveniently located at the top of the bar, but are barely noticeable. In fact, the SP9YA disappears almost entirely in a darkened room with the exception of the front-facing LED display, which is hidden behind the metal grille (which dims but never completely turns off).

The wireless subwoofer uses a front firing design which in my opinion often outperforms down firing units of the same performance.

My only concern is the soundbar's hard-wired power cord – it could make some installations really difficult, especially if you have to run the cord through cabinet openings that are too small to accommodate the size of the wall plug. While LG TVs have detachable power cords, if you remove a faceplate first, I don't see any way to do that with the SP9YA.

Inputs and outputs

LG SP9YA Dolby Atmos soundbar connectors.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

There are only four connections on the back of the SP9YA: a 4K / Dolby Vision-capable HDMI input, an HDMI ARC / eARC output, an optical input and a USB connection for memory-based music playback. I'd prefer to see more HDMI inputs at this price, and I'm surprised there isn't an analog input or ethernet jack, but these aren't deal-breakers.

Basic setup of the SP9YA is a breeze. Grab the remote control and you can enjoy the TV sound.

The good news is that unlike some soundbars that treat the HDMI and Optical inputs as a single input (meaning you can use one or the other, but not both), the SP9YA considers these ports to be discrete inputs . You can connect a streaming media player, cable box, or Blu-ray player to the HDMI input port while using the optical port for an audio source such as a CD player or Sonos device. Each can be selected as their own source, so you have a pretty good range of connected devices.

Setup and configuration

Basic setup of the SP9YA is a breeze. Simply connect the soundbar to your TV with HDMI or optical cables, connect the wireless subwoofer to the wall, do the same to the soundbar and turn it on. The soundbar and subwoofer automatically establish a wireless connection, which is confirmed by a solid green light on the back of the subwoofer. Grab the remote control and you can enjoy the TV sound.

However, much deeper options are available with the remote control and the free LG Sound Bar app.

The first thing to consider is using the AI. Room calibration function. The bar emits a series of test tones in a matter of seconds, and the two built-in microphones determine how the acoustics of your room affect performance. Conveniently, you can hear pre- and post-noises with the app so that you can decide which is better. I didn't notice much of a difference, but that could simply be a function of the particular space I was using.

You can switch the soundbar to Bluetooth mode at any time and pair it with a phone, tablet or other Bluetooth device. However, if you want a variety of better audio options and deeper settings, it's worth connecting the SP9YA to your Wi-Fi network.

Once you've done that, you can add the soundbar to Google Home, Amazon Alexa, or Apple HomeKit, use Spotify Connect, and then stream audio to the system via Chromecast or AirPlay 2. I'll discuss why this is a must-do in a moment.

Given that the SP9YA has Chromecast and Google Assistant compatibility, it's great that LG doesn't force you to complete the WiFi setup through the Google Home app – something we do a lot on Chromecast devices like the Bang & Olufsen Beosound see stage. You can always add the SP9YA to the Google Home app if you want, but it's up to you.

Apple's AirPlay 2 is also available as soon as you connect to WiFi – no additional configuration required.

user friendliness

LG SP9YA Dolby Atmos Soundbar Remote Control.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

The included remote control for the SP9YA is well designed from an ergonomic point of view – it fits the hand comfortably and is easy to use – but it has no backlighting, which makes working in a dark room a little more difficult.

When connected to your TV via HDMI ARC / eARC, most TV remotes should be able to control the volume and mute of the soundbar. I've also found that streaming media devices plugged into the soundbar's HDMI input can control these features as well (I've tried it with an Apple TV 4K and an Nvidia Shield TV). Typically televisions connected by the optical cable will not be able to control the volume of the soundbar unless you have an LG TV. In this case, enabling your TV's Sound Sync option should give you this option.

You can also use the remote control for more advanced functions: a four-way directional pad allows you to navigate deeper settings such as speaker levels. But the LG Sound Bar app is so good that I highly recommend using it instead of the remote control for these advanced settings. You can view all available channels (subwoofer, center, side, overhead, etc.) along with the sliders for each.

The SP9YA is an incredibly powerful system for movies and music.

The only area that lacks ease of use is in music playback. As a wifi connected speaker, there should be a way to access your personal media stored on a computer or hard drive connected to your network, but the Sound Bar app lacks that option and there is no way to do this with the remote control either.

If you want to play music from a USB storage device at the same time, you have to use the remote control to navigate through the content – the app cannot see or control this music.

Sound quality

LG SP9YA Dolby Atmos soundbar.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

The SP9YA is an incredibly powerful system for movies and music. When I'm not checking sound bars, my normal system is a Pioneer Dolby Atmos receiver connected to a 5.1.2 set of discrete speakers, including ceiling-mounted speakers just above the listening area. The SP9YA is the first soundbar I've tested that comes close to this setup in terms of immersion.

No, it is not a direct replacement, but a very attractive alternative given its price and simplicity.

Dolby Atmos is the star of this show. I think the soundbar handles all audio formats just fine, but whoever buys the SP9YA owes it to themselves to look for movies on Netflix, Disney +, Amazon Prime Video, or other sources that have an Atmos soundtrack.

Whether it's fast-paced car scenes in Mad Max: Fury Road, Ford versus Ferrari, or John Wick: Chapter 2, or the superhero action in a Marvel movie, the SP9YA has the sheer power it takes to recreate the tension in the theater during its Height and side channel drivers deliver convincing 3D effects. The wireless sub does an excellent job of delivering deep bass that you can feel in your chest, but it's also a subtle feat that never drowns out the rest of the soundtrack.

If you live in a condo or share a wall with your neighbors, you might as well invite them to watch with you, as they will hear and feel these explosions too.

If you'd like, you can add LG's optional SPK8-S wireless surround speakers for $ 180 for a 7.1.2 experience. They add to the sense of depth, but they don't add anything to the Dolby Atmos height channels.

Pro tip: Use the soundbar app to level up the overhead channels. This is the key to hearing the sounds that make Atmos, well, Atmos-y.

When playing Atmos content, the optional sound effect settings (eight of which are available) are inactive. However, when playing non-Atmos audio, settings like music, movies, or games can have a huge impact on the sound you get. Rather than relying on LG's labels and assuming that Cinema is best for movies, I suggest that you try them all out. LG's AI Sound Pro setting is supposed to automatically detect what type of audio you're listening to and choose the best setting accordingly, but I didn't always find it to my liking.

For example, when streaming music, the game mode turned out to be a better choice than the actual music setting. Likewise, the Bass Blast mode – which is meant to boost low frequencies – seemed to be doing just the opposite.

Aside from the quirk of the label, I had no problem with the SP9YA producing satisfactory audio from TV shows, movies, and music. If you've been thinking of a soundbar to improve the clarity of dialogue, the SP9YA is a solid choice. I found speech very intelligible even with the default settings, and was able to make it clearer with both the Clear Voice mode and by boosting the center channel output.

For music, I can't recommend using Wi-Fi strongly enough. Bluetooth comes in handy when you have guests and want them to quickly play something from their phones, but for pure audio quality, AirPlay 2 and Chromecast are orders of magnitude better than Bluetooth.

Our opinion

LG's SP9YA delivers amazing immersive sound from a single soundbar and subwoofer, making it one of the easiest ways to enjoy Dolby Atmos movies and music at home.

Is there a better alternative?

Finding a direct alternative to the LG SP9YA is difficult. Not many sound bars offer a full 5.1.2 channel configuration from a single speaker plus subwoofer.

The $ 799 Sonos Arc is great for Dolby Atmos and overall a more versatile choice as it can be used as an Alexa or Google Assistant smart speaker and has the best streaming and multiroom capabilities in the industry. But you can only use it with a Sonos Sub – a very expensive wireless speaker for $ 699. That combination is well above the $ 1,000 price of the SP9YA. The Arc also lacks an HDMI input, making it less convenient for those with a lot of HDMI source devices.

The $ 1,000 Vizio Elevate is probably the best comparison. It has excellent Dolby Atmos and DTS: X sound and one of the best soundbar remotes, but you have to deal with the extra surround speakers that are firmly attached to the wireless subwoofer. It's also a better choice for movies than music – there's no support for Hi-Res lossless audio or Apple AirPlay 2.

We haven't reviewed Samsung's new $ 1,300 in 2021 HW-Q900A 7.1.2 Soundbar yet, but given its specs and our reviews of previous Samsung soundbars, it could be the SP9YA's toughest competitor.

How long it will take?

Audio devices such as sound bars tend to last for many years. They are not moved much after installation, and heat build-up (the cause of many electronic failures) is rarely a problem. It is only unknown how long LG will keep the SP9YA up to date with new software. It should still work fine without updates to TV audio, but some features, like AirPlay streaming, could lose support in the long run. LG backs the SP9YA with a standard one-year warranty.

Should you buy it?

Yes. If you're ready to dive into immersive Dolby Atmos audio and have access to streaming movies or music using this 3D format, this is the LG SP9YA is a fantastic choice.

Editor's recommendations



13 May
Blog

Soundbar Reviews | Digital Trends

Improve your lifestyle

With Digital Trends, readers keep an eye on the fast-paced world of tech with the latest news, fun product reviews, insightful editorials, and unique insights.

Digital trends can earn a commission when you buy from links on our website.

Copyright © 2021 Designtechnica Corporation. All rights reserved.

08 Mar
Blog

Vizio M-Series 5.1 soundbar review (M51a-H6)

Vizio M-Series 5.1 Soundbar (M51a-H6)

"The Vizio M-Series 5.1 is a knockout figure."

  • Support for eARC, Dolby Atmos, DTS: X.

  • Impressive subwoofer

  • Seamless surround effects

  • Comprehensive control

  • Excellent fidelity

  • One HDMI input

  • Less suitable for larger rooms

After recently reviewing the Vizio Elevate soundbar, which produced outstanding Dolby Atmos surround sound (at a high price), I was excited to see the cheaper M-Series 5.1 (M51a-H6) soundbar from Vizio. With virtual Dolby Atmos and DTS: X on board and a compact profile, the $ 300 soundbar system has all the prerequisites for incredible value. But even when I knew all of this, I was surprised. Let's take a look at it.

Out of the box

At first glance, the M-Series 5.1 might look a little… boring. But that’s what it’s all about. The soundbar isn't drawing attention to itself, and I think that's a good thing – you should be able to hear the equipment without visual interference. Vizio did a great job creating an attractive system that would disappear in your room. It's compact, slides right under most Vizio TVs, and has a sleek, charcoal-gray finish.

vizio m series 51 soundbar review m51a h6 5 1Dan Baker / Digital Trends

vizio m series 51 soundbar review m51a h6 5 1Dan Baker / Digital Trends

vizio m series 51 soundbar review m51a h6 5 1Dan Baker / Digital Trends

The system has a 36-inch wide soundbar with six drivers – three mid-range speakers and three tweeters in a configuration for left, center and right – as well as two surround speakers, each with a mid-range speaker and a subwoofer with a robust 6-inch driver Bottom.

The back of the soundbar is pretty simple. There is a power connector and an AUX input connector that can be used for a smart speaker if you want the smart speaker to control the system or to be heard through the surround sound system. There are also two HDMI ports, one for connecting a single device and another that supports eARC for Dolby Atmos and DTS: X surround signals – that's a pretty impressive take at the price.

Everything you need comes in an incredibly well organized box

Dan Baker / Digital Trends

The back of the surround speakers has a single cinch connector that connects the speakers to the subwoofer, as well as a screw hole that allows the speakers to be mounted using the mounting brackets provided.

If you're familiar with Vizio soundbars, you know that everything you need comes in one incredibly well-organized box. There are two power cords (one short and one long if your subwoofer is farther from an electrical outlet), two extremely long surround sound speaker cords, an HDMI cord, a remote control, batteries, an optical cord, and some analog cords, and the the above hardware for mounting the speakers.

Setup options

There are two different setup scenarios for the M-Series 5.1. One is the more conventional configuration, with the soundbar in the front, the surround speakers behind you, and the subwoofer in the back with the surround speakers (which wirelessly receive the surround signal and power the surround speakers).

The setup is plug-and-play and fully automated.

The other setup option (which works well for people who may not have that much space) is to have the surround speakers flank the soundbar at the front and the subwoofer also faces the front of the room. Vizio claims that the M-Series 5.1 can achieve some impressive surround sound effects even with this setup.

Dan Baker / Digital Trends

The setup is plug-and-play and fully automated. After you've plugged the soundbar and subwoofer into an electrical outlet and turned on the system, the two components will automatically connect and you're good to go. If you are using the M-Series 5.1 in a huge, cavernous room, problems can arise if the subwoofer is too far from the soundbar and loses some of its signal, which results in a small popping noise. However, since this system is not intended for larger spaces, I don't see this as a problem for most people

Similar to the Vizio Elevate, the M-Series 5.1 system has a comprehensive set of controls, all of which are managed using the supplied remote control. The remote control allows you to manage the independent balance of the surround speakers, the overall level of the surround speakers, the subwoofer level, the bass and treble levels, and a variety of preset EQ options. This type of control is important so that you can choose the sound of the system to work well with different speaker / subwoofer placement and room feature scenarios. With a little tweaking, I was able to use the system exactly where I wanted it.

Dan Baker / Digital Trends

Sound quality

But how does it sound? In short, the Vizio M-Series 5.1 sounds great. In this price range, no business sounds as good as it does – even to Vizio, which is known for bringing out some pretty high quality soundbars.

The M-Series 5.1 has created a convincing sound circle.

The system doesn't achieve quite as good Dolby Atmos effects as a high-fire speaker system (like the Vizio Elevate), but the fidelity is impressive and the surround effects are seamless and cohesive.

The surround effects in the intro to Mad Max: Fury Road (one of my favorite Atmos surround test tracks) swirl around you. If there are holes in the presentation, you'll notice them straight away. The M-Series 5.1 has created a convincing sound circle, whereby the mix between the surround speakers and the soundbar sounds excellent.

The virtual Dolby Atmos effects have certainly increased the perceived height of the overall presentation and also improved the depth. I just didn't feel like there were objects directly overhead like I did with the Vizio Elevate. When the first chase takes place on Fury Road, a dune buggy flies overhead and, on suitable Dolby Atmos systems, it sounds like the vehicle is approaching you from behind and flying right over you. With the M-Series 5.1 soundbar, the dune buggy seemed to come through me and not over me.

I find this track to be a good stress test as well, as the narrator's soft, gritty voice pushes the boundaries of most soundbars, which often rely heavily on the subwoofer at mid-bass frequencies. I've often found that it looks like most of the voice is coming from the subwoofer, but in my testing I haven't drawn undue attention to the subwoofer. It seemed like the voice was anchored in the soundbar, the bass was just ubiquitous – really impressive.

If you want your living room to feel more like a theater, the M-Series 5.1 is for you. Unlike other soundbars I've tested, the highs here aren't too sharp, the dialogue is never muffled, and the midrange is clear and well-defined. And while soundbars aren't known for being that "musical", I ran a couple of tracks through the M-Series 5.1 and they produced the same sharp fidelity that they did for movies. There wasn't much instrumental separation and the soundstage isn't particularly deep – after all, the M-Series 5.1 isn't an audiophile product to compete with a dedicated music system – but the bass is rich. Instrumental textures are very good and the system provided a comfortable, room-filling experience.

Our opinion

People go to budget-friendly sound bars with managed expectations. For most, it's usually fine as long as it sounds better than the TV's built-in speakers. But the Vizio M-Series X defies those expectations and as such I think listeners will be blown away the first time they listen. For the price, the Vizio M-Series 5.1 is a knockout.

Is there a better alternative?

No. Vizio also offers the SB36512-F6 soundbar, which has two Atmos channels, for the same price. I don't like the design that much though, and I think the M-Series 5.1's fidelity is a bit better. The M-Series also supports 5.1 eARC for higher quality audio, while the SB366512-F6 offers standard ARC.

How long it will take

The Vizio M-Series 5.1 appears to be well built and should last as long as you need to start the upgrade.

warranty

Vizio warrants its soundbars for one year when purchased from an authorized dealer. You can find more warranty information here.

Should you buy it?

Yes. The M-Series 5.1 soundbar is tremendous value and offers an extremely entertaining cinema experience.

Editor's recommendations




16 Feb
Blog

Vizio Elevate: A Smart Soundbar that Pivots for Atmos Audio

"When the rain is realistic enough to grab an umbrella, the Elevate delivers immersive audio at its best."

  • Easy setup, clear diagram with connections

  • Wonderfully unique design

  • Deep control over audio output levels

  • Exceptionally clear dialogue

  • Space-dependent effects

  • Expensive

If you want to tune the audio in your home to match the high quality picture you've invested in – and I think you should, it's one of the best ways to upgrade your movie night – there isn't one more convenient way than a Dolby Atmos soundbar system. The picture quality of your set is amazing, isn't it? Why isn't the sound impressive right away?

Vizio believes that a soundbar can also be a statement. The new 48-inch Elevate soundbar features speaker housings that rotate to shoot at the ceiling or directly at you. Sounds great right? The problem with these systems is that they tend to compromise or make sacrifices. According to Vizio, the Elevate soundbar doesn't compromise – and the $ 1,000 price tag would suggest it does. But does it live up to the hype? We'll find out in a moment.

What's in the box: Unpack the Vizio Elevate

Along with the speakers themselves – carefully packed in a rather elaborate chair-shaped box – comes an accessory box, and I love what Vizio did here: not only does this box contain everything you need to set it up, it's also very clear labeled and partially color-coded. The scope of delivery includes two different power cables, one for the sub and one for the soundbar. However, you can use the longer cable depending on what you want.

Riley Young / Digital Trends

The scope of delivery also includes the remote control (batteries included), a digital optical cable, an HDMI cable, brackets and hardware, as well as two analog audio cables. One audio cable can be used for a smart speaker and the other for pretty much any other device you might want to connect to the soundbar.

The rod itself is slim and cylindrical, with a satin silver finish and clean lines. What is really interesting is the cutout at the bottom that was specially designed for this soundbar to sit right on top of the Vizio H1 OLED TV. Remove it and the pair gently nestle against each other. If you don't have a Vizio TV, leave the cutout attached.

The surround speakers are nice and compact so they don't take up too much space in your room. The Atmos driver is triggered on the top of each surround speaker, while a neat little non-slip silicone pad is attached to the bottom. On the back of the speaker there is a screw hole for wall mounting and color-coded RCA speaker connections.

The subwoofer is slightly larger than most soundbars, and deliberately: The volume of the case is supposed to support a huge 8-inch driver that looks very robust. The back of the sub has a nicely flared exit port at the top that helps prevent airborne noise if the Elevate is really throbbing. Below are a few places where you can connect your surround speakers.

Between the soundbar, the surrounds and the subwoofer, the Elevate system includes 18 drivers that are operated with enough watts of power so that the system can reach 107 decibels. The subwoofer hits a frequency of 30Hz, which is deep enough in the bass range to rattle pictures off the wall, but just before the deepest bass you would get from a high-end subwoofer – in other words, you will feel the bass.

links

Riley Young / Digital Trends

Under the soundbar itself you will find your optical digital connection on the left and two aux connections on the right – interestingly one of them is marked for an intelligent loudspeaker. There are two HDMI inputs that allow you to connect two devices directly to the soundbar, and a third HDMI port for an e-ARC connection. The first two send a signal to your TV, while the e-ARC connection accepts downstream audio from the TV.

Set up

Setting up the system is really a breeze. Take your subwoofer and place it in the back of the room near an electrical outlet so you can plug it in. It is important where you place your subwoofer in your room as your surround speakers need to be connected directly to the subwoofer. That's right, the surround signal goes first to the subwoofer, where an amplifier controls these surround speakers. Sure, they have really long wires so you have some flexibility in placement for all of these components, but by and large the front and back of the room is determined by this connection.

The soundbar itself can be placed in front of the television, on the bracket of your Vizio OLED television or on the wall bracket with the brackets provided. When it comes to connections, you can simply run an HDMI cable from your TV to the Vizio Elevate through the ARC or eARC port on each device – and that's really all you have to do to get sound.

Synchronization is practically automatic: turn it on and you're good to go. Unfortunately, while setting up the soundbar system itself is a breeze, making sure you're getting Dolby Atmos is a little more complicated.

Riley Young / Digital Trends

If you have a really new TV – 2018 or newer – you will likely be fine. Most new TVs support Atmos passthrough. This means you can connect devices to the TV (or use the built-in streaming apps) and stream Dolby Atmos to the soundbar. If your TV is a little older, it probably doesn't support Atmos passthrough. You would therefore like to connect devices directly to one of the two HDMI ports in the soundbar.

Then it gets a little more complicated.

First, make sure the game console, disc player, or streaming device you own supports Atmos. A quick look through the manual or the product website should confirm this. Additionally, you need to make sure that the streaming app you are using – Netflix or Disney + or whatever – is actually streaming Dolby Atmos on that particular device as this is inconsistent: Netflix may be able to stream Atmos on Xbox One X to the Example, but not on a specific streaming stick. So check the chain – all of the different components you use must support Atmos.

The same applies to DTS: X, every source and every device in the chain must be checked twice.

versatility

One of the things that annoys me the most about soundbars in general, but Dolby Atmos soundbars in particular, is that I don't get control of the individual layers I need. That changes with the Vizio Elevate soundbar, which gives you control over everything: left, right, center, surround level, surround balance, Atmos height channel effects, subwoofer level, bass, treble – whatever you call it. Why is that important? For example, let's say I can't put the surround speakers exactly where they should be (which, by the way, is right in the left and right corners of your seating area). With individual level adjustments, you can optimize your setup to achieve really good Atmos height and surround effects, regardless of where these speakers are located.

Riley Young / Digital Trends

One of the other things that bother me about soundbars is that they usually rely on color-coded LED systems to let you know important things, such as: B. which input you have set or which EQ mode you have selected. Vizios Elevate does that too, of course, but at least they've made it easy to understand: a table on the back of the remote shows you which color means what.

There's also an indicator just above the remote that tells you pretty much everything you need to know and which is activated when you manage all of your various settings in the soundbar. In other words, this bar doesn't give you any onscreen interface – but between the diagram on the remote and that little screen, you really have all the information you need. In addition, there is a voice that tells you which input you are set to when switching.

performance

The Dolby Atmos version of the Elevate soundbar is unique. Sure, the surround speakers are traditional, with some drivers pointing into the room and others pointing towards the ceiling. The soundbar itself is different: the speakers at either end of the front tube rotate between Atmos mode and standard audio. When the sound picks up a Dolby Atmos signal, these speakers roll up and emit sound from the ceiling – this is how you get a 5.1.4 Atmos experience. (Why four? Two speakers in the front and two in the surround speakers, all facing the ceiling.)

If you don't hear Atmos content, the speakers will shut down. When this happens, the Elevate changes the mapping of the various woofers and tweeters in the sound system, giving you better fidelity and a wider soundstage, at least that's the promise. That also means this soundbar could sound great for music.

Riley Young / Digital Trends

But let's face it, the Elevate is here to produce amazing movie soundtracks and mind-blowing Atmos effects, and my word, does it ever do that? This soundbar just sounds very, very good. The Atmos effects vary depending on the type of ceiling, but the range is clearly sufficient. You can goose them to get more out of them, resulting in a truly amazing experience: helicopters that really fly over your head, or rain that is realistic enough to make you reach for an umbrella.

With the Elevate you have the feeling that action is taking place above you, but beyond that the transition from the soundbar to the surround speakers to the Atmos effects is extremely smooth – I don't hear any holes in the sphere of sound, it's all very cohesive . What does that mean? It's very simple: when you're enjoying a movie, don't think about the soundbar, just get lost in the movie. The fidelity of this soundbar comes into its own here too, with very clear dialogue that isn't overly accentuated, which was previously an issue.

There is nothing boxy about this system. It has a very open sound that is also extremely dynamic. So when things get explosive they are really explosive, and when things are more sensitive and quieter, you hear the whole nuance. The tweeters Vizio recorded here are really cute: they don't yell at you, they don't get overly hissing – it's just a really fun sound signature down the line.

Our opinion

Has Vizio kept its promise of an uncompromising soundbar? I say this: I think it has done better than anyone so far. I am very impressed with the musicality of this soundbar and that is usually one of the biggest problems. The control is immense, which means audiophiles can tune it to sound exactly how they want. It's also a very smooth, cohesive sound with great fidelity – another hallmark of a great soundbar.

Is there a better alternative?

When you consider the Elevate, you're probably not looking for something as simple as the Bose Solo 5 TV sound system. They hope for the best, the crème de la crème, and there are certainly competitors out there. The Sonos Arc, for example, is another Swiss Army Knife that also brings Dolby Atmos and A.I. Controls – as well as a brand name that will impress your friends. However, connectivity is limited with just a single HDMI port. Further up the thinned line of high-end speaker systems is the Bang & Olufsen Beosound Stage, which has a beautiful design and deep and resonant bass. It's also twice as expensive.

How long it will take?

The specification wars are ending, Dolby Atmos and DTS: X have won, and you are unlikely to see any new unsupported formats. Vizio is known for its high quality products, and this soundbar is likely to last you for the next decade.

warranty

Vizio offers a standard 1 year warranty on the Elevate soundbar. Please refer to the Vizio warranty page for more information.

Should you buy it?

Yes absolutely. The Vizio combines a new design with audiophile controls and simply outstanding sound and is the ultimate compliment for your high-end television.

Editor's recommendations




04 Jan
Blog

Klipsch Cinema 600 Soundbar Review: Big, Bold Stereo Sound

Klipsch Cinema 600 soundbar

Klipsch Cinema 600 soundbar

"The powerful and precise Cinema 600 is a soundbar for everyone who likes it loud."

  • High quality materials and surfaces

  • Easy to set up and use

  • Effective dialogue modes

  • Powerful and precise sound

  • Subwoofer not challenged

  • Mediocre virtual surround mode

The soundbar market is huge, with models ranging from tiny TV speakers to monstrous, multi-device home theater replacements, priced anywhere from $ 100 to over $ 1,000. Somewhere in the middle you should be able to find a system that offers powerful, room-filling sound, easy setup and use, and a price that doesn't make you rethink your life choices. That void falls into the $ 500 Klipsch Cinema 600, a 3.1 soundbar system with one of the largest subwoofers we've seen.

Does the Cinema 600 satisfy? Let's try it out.

What's in the box?

Klipsch Cinema 600 soundbarSimon Cohen / Digital Trends

The Cinema 600's L-shaped box is an unwieldy animal you might want to recruit a friend for – the courier who delivered our test model nearly injured himself with a dolly while negotiating our front stairs. Inside you will find the soundbar, the subwoofer, two power cables, an HDMI cable, wall brackets with a template, a remote control with batteries and the operating instructions. A lot of styrofoam is used to protect the components, but the rest can likely be roadside recycled if you don't keep them.

The company designed its soundbars to attract your eyes just as they do your ears.

design

Klipsch Cinema 600 soundbarSimon Cohen / Digital Trends

Klipsch is obsessed with making its speaker technology visible to everyone. The distinctive copper drivers are so diverse that many people never bother installing the included black fabric grilles that come with Klipsch products. So it's no wonder the company designed its soundbars to attract your eyes as well as your ears.

Black stained wooden end caps, accents made of brushed metal and a black fabric grill exude a restrained, high-quality atmosphere. The exposed tweeters at the ends, framed by Klipsch's signature Tractrix horns, may be more polarizing. Personally, I don't want visual distractions that take my eye off the screen while watching TV, so I prefer subtle sound bars. These silver plastic horns are hard to ignore if they catch even the slightest trace of room light. It makes the Cinema 600's design harder to sell for me, but I think Klipsch fans won't mind at all.

At 45 inches wide, the soundbar is in the long side category, but it's height that could be an issue. With a size of almost five centimeters, there is a possibility that part of the screen is covered on TVs with very short stands or feet. Measure your setup carefully, unless you plan on wall mounting the pole (which is easy thanks to the hardware included).

The control buttons for power supply, source and volume are located at the top right in the bar under a small display on which the status of the individual functions is shown. It's convenient to have them, but the play / pause and mute buttons feel like obvious omissions.

The wireless subwoofer is, I'll just say it: freaking enormous. It stands over 18 inches tall and is over a foot wide on each side. You probably shouldn't put objects on it or use it as a stool, but it's nice to know you could – it's ultra-solid, with the same furniture-grade black wood as the soundbar, with an uninterrupted frame on five sides.

Klipsch recommends placing it near the front of the viewing area – on a wall or in a corner – for a stronger bass effect. However, due to its size, this may not be possible in every situation.

Setup and connections

Klipsch Cinema 600 soundbar connectionsSimon Cohen / Digital Trends

Setting up the Cinema 600 is a breeze. Connect the soundbar to your TV using the HDMI cable provided or your own optical or analog cable, then plug the soundbar and subwoofer into the appropriate sockets. That's it, you're done. Note, however, that in the manual, the soundbar must be connected first and then the subwoofer. This makes the pairing sequence between the two components much smoother.

The included remote control is well designed and impressively lit so that it can be easily viewed in a darkened room.

Using the bar's HDMI ARC connection will allow your TV to control volume and mute. However, like many sound bars, some audio formats that require HDMI ARC are not supported (such as Dolby Digital Plus and Dolby Atmos). It also lacks an HDMI input to use as a passthrough. So if your TV has limited HDMI ports, you can use an optical cable instead. You'll lose volume and mute, but don't worry, there is a workaround – the soundbar can be set to respond to your TV or cable box remote control.

In addition to the optical and HDMI connections, you get an analog socket and Bluetooth for wireless streaming from a smartphone. Each input can be selected using the buttons above or the remote control. This means that you have up to four sound sources easily accessible.

The connection ports are located in a very small cavity. So if you want to run cables to each cable, you may have to play around with the order so they don't bump into each other.

The Cinema 600 also has a USB port behind the right end cap, which is mainly used for firmware updates, but can also be used to play audio files from a USB stick or hard drive. I haven't tested this feature.

user friendliness

Klipsch Cinema 600 Soundbar remote controlSimon Cohen / Digital Trends

The included remote control is well designed and impressively lit so that it can be easily viewed in a darkened room. A motion sensor will light up as soon as you record it. Deeper functions such as bass level, surround mode, dialogue enhancement and night mode are easily accessible via special buttons.

Whether it's Hollywood blockbusters or the latest original TV series from HBO or Netflix, the sound is punchy, precise and energetic.

It's completely intuitive, but I'm not crazy about the bar with LED dots on the front of the soundbar as an indicator of what's happening. As a volume indicator it works perfectly, but once you switch to surround or dialog mode you need the manual to interpret point sequences. It's like morse code. Klipsch should consider shipping the Cinema 600 with a display-equipped remote control, as Vizio does with its mid-tier and flagship soundbars. The last thing you want to do while watching a movie is digging up a manual.

Sound quality

The Cinema 600 is a 3.1-channel system, ie you get three loudspeakers (left and right front channel and a center channel) and the subwoofer. This is a near-perfect setup for people who simply want a lot better sound than their televisions can produce. It gives you excellent stereo separation while providing crystal clear dialogue through the center channel.

Whether it's Hollywood blockbusters or the latest original TV series from HBO or Netflix, the sound is punchy, precise and energetic. And wow, this system gets loud when you want it – without a hint of distortion. After all, 600 watts is a lot of power.

The four dialogue modes successfully improve speech intelligibility, which I rely on for dialogue-intensive shows like The Crown.

Overall, it's an extremely fun TV sound system. But there are two areas that I found less than great.

First, you'd think that with a subwoofer this big, low-end bass rumble would go off the charts. But even when the bass level is at its maximum, low frequency effects are seriously attenuated. Some of this can be traced back to where I placed the subwoofer – in the middle of my viewing wall, not in a corner. But I don't think that should make that much difference. Don't get me wrong, there is still a lot of bass, but it feels like it is produced by less than half the size of the unit that comes with the Cinema 600.

Second, you can activate a virtual surround mode which theoretically expands the sound beams coming from the bar to achieve the equivalent of a full 5.1 surround system. Using this mode definitely increases the width of the soundstage, but at the same time it breaks the high frequencies and pulls back the midrange. The effect actually smooths the sound instead of making it more immersive.

If you want a true 5.1 system, you don't have to choose between great 3.1 and mediocre virtualized surround sound. The Cinema 600 can be expanded with Klipsch's wireless Surround 3 speakers ($ 250 per pair), or you can purchase them together as a bundle in early 2021.

The music in the Cinema 600 is also very dynamic (this surround mode should also be avoided here). Modern, studio-produced tracks like The Weeknds Blinding Lights or Beck's Uneventful Days sound particularly good, while older material is not quite as lively, but is still fun.

Our opinion

Klipsch delivers a lively and loud 3.1 home theater soundbar in the Cinema 600, which has good connections and a well-designed remote control.

Is there a better alternative?

There's no shortage of excellent soundbar options for the same $ 500 price as the Cinema 600. The LG SN7Y is a 3.1.2 system that delivers Dolby Atmos decently from a single bar, and the HT-G700 from Sony is possibly the best at Klipsch and LG when it comes to virtualized surround sound. Any of these sound bars will likely prove more satisfactory than the Cinema 600 from a multi-channel perspective. However, if you're looking for a clean, powerful sound, Klipsch is hard to beat.

How long it will take?

Klipsch is known for high quality equipment and the Cinema 600 is a well built system that should last for many years. Klipsch grants a one-year guarantee on the electronics and a three-year guarantee on the housing and woofer components.

Should you buy it?

Yes. While the Cinema 600 isn't as impressive as some soundbars, its performance and precision make it deserve a spot on your shortlist.

Editor's recommendations




26 Nov
Blog

Vizio V-Series 2.1 Soundbar Review: Your TV’s New BFF

Vizio V-Series V21-H8 2.1 Soundbar

Vizio V-series 2.1-channel soundbar

"The V-Series 2.1 is a fun and affordable home theater upgrade for your TV."

  • Attractively priced

  • Comes with everything

  • Lots of EQ adjustments

  • Very good sound quality

  • HDMI ARC

  • No Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, or Chromecast

  • There is no definition in the middle

  • No HDMI input

If you look at our previous Vizio soundbar reviews you will find one common thread: Value. Whether it's a 5.1.4 Dolby Atmos model, a 2.1 system, or something in between, Vizio continues to deliver soundbars that are way above their price.

The company's newest 2.1 system, the $ 180 system V-Series 2.1-Channel Soundbar (V21-H8) is no exception.

What can you expect from this extremely affordable TV speaker? Let's take a look.

What's in the box?

Vizio V-Series V21-H8 2.1 SoundbarSimon Cohen / Digital Trends

Vizio's reputation for value extends beyond the physical capabilities of its products. Literally everything you need to set up the V21 can be found in the box. In addition to the soundbar and the wireless subwoofer, you receive four connection cables: an HDMI cable and an optical cable for digital sound. There is a double analog miniplug cable for connecting a music source based on a headphone jack (or smart speaker), a stereo RCA patch cord for connecting other analog devices and even a set of wall brackets.

A quick start guide, a complete operating manual, a remote control and a paper template for wall mounts complete the picture. You'll need to dispose of the styrofoam bumpers if they can't be recycled locally, but the box shouldn't be a problem.

design

Vizio adorned its soundbars on both ends with silver-colored caps. It added an air of sophistication to the speakers, but it also attracted attention. I think soundbars should be as discreet as possible – unless they're trying to be conversation pieces – and Vizio's cute new, all-matte black design language is a big step in the right direction.

Instead of end caps, the soundbar's fabric grille wraps around the edges, creating seamless front corners that remind me of the Sonos Beam. A set of four discrete physical buttons sit on the textured plastic surface. On the back you will find a variety of connections: HDMI ARC, optical, USB (for hard disk-based music), an additional analog input and a dedicated analog input for smart speakers.

For less than $ 200, the V21 gives any TV a huge improvement in sound quality.

At 36 inches wide and 2.25 inches high, it's perfect for TV screen sizes of 48 inches or larger. It's short enough that it probably doesn't obscure the bottom of the screen unless your TV has very small legs.

One major change is the subwoofer. Vizio used to include a sleek wireless subwoofer that could fit under a couch, but the V21 comes with a more traditional down-firing cube. While not quite as versatile in terms of placement, it's nonetheless one of the smallest subs you can find.

Setup and connections

Vizio V-Series V21-H8 2.1 Soundbar connections "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn8.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/vizio-v-series-v21 -soundbar-00015-640x640.jpg "srcset =" https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAASimon Cohen / Digital Trends

Vizio V-Series V21-H8 2.1 Soundbar connections "class =" m-Karussell - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn9.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/vizio-v-series-v21 -soundbar-00014-640x640.jpg "srcset =" https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAASimon Cohen / Digital Trends

Setting up the V21 is a breeze. Connect the soundbar to your TV using a digital or analog cable, connect the soundbar and sub to the power supply, and you're done. We were surprised that the V21's predecessor, the horribly named SB3621n-G8, didn't come with HDMI ARC as a connection option, but the V21 addresses that loophole.

Not that it's actually needed – HDMI ARC is most useful for sound bars that support advanced audio formats like DTS: X and Dolby Atmos that can't be transmitted over optical connections. The V21 doesn't support them, so there is no advantage in using HDMI from an audio point of view.

HDMI ARC allows your TV to remotely control the volume and mute of the V21. However, this can also be achieved through an optical connection if you train the soundbar to recognize the remote IR signals from your TV.

My advice: use the optical connection. Why ditch a valuable HDMI port on your TV when there's no real benefit to it and the V21 doesn't have an HDMI input to compensate for the port your TV needs?

The V21 has a USB port for playing back songs from a hard drive or a USB memory stick. Only WAV and MP3 files are recognized.

If you want to listen to music from a non-TV source, Bluetooth is your best bet. Pairing your phone with the soundbar is as easy as switching the input to Bluetooth and looking for the V21 in the list of available Bluetooth devices. A Wi-Fi connection offers higher audio quality. However, if you just want to cater to a party with a Spotify playlist, Bluetooth is more than enough.

Unfortunately, Bluetooth stability is a hit and miss. Over the course of several days, I had some sessions that were perfectly solid while others suffered from frequent dropouts. Breaking and then re-establishing the Bluetooth connection was sometimes fixed, but not every time.

user friendliness

Vizio V-Series V21-H8 2.1 soundbar with remote controlSimon Cohen / Digital Trends

Vizio sent us the V21-H8 model for review. The included remote control is well designed, feels comfortable, and has nice, clicking buttons. However, it is not illuminated and there is no built-in screen so you can easily see the various modes and levels displayed.

Oddly enough, the V21-H8R – which Vizio lists on its website for the same price as the H8 – comes with the updated display remote. If you have a choice Get the H8R.

When you get the H8, you'll need to learn to decipher morse code like LED dots on the left side of the soundbar that give you visual feedback after each click. With the exception of the volume level, which is pretty intuitive, many other indicators need a legend to decipher. Some time spent with the manual goes a long way in avoiding frustration, especially with deeper settings like DTS Virtual: X.

To be fair, Vizio has gone out of its way to demystify some of the LED meanings: a helpful voice will indicate which input or EQ mode you've just switched to and let you know when you've successfully enabled Bluetooth pairing to have. It could become a nuisance over time. Fortunately, a long press of the mute button will disable it.

Start your favorite movie and you'll instantly hear what your TV's built-in speakers have kept away from you.

The V21 has a dedicated port for connecting a smart speaker like an Amazon Echo Dot (or you can pair it via Bluetooth). Either way, the V21 will automatically lower the volume of your movie, TV show, or music so you can hear Alexa (or Google Assistant) respond to your voice commands. If the answer is 10 seconds or less, the background audio will be cut off. However, if your assistant continues to speak, the V21 will completely mute the show or movie until the response is finished. Not only is this a handy feature to solve the problem of not being able to hear your assistant, but it's also a super easy way to stream music services to the soundbar without having to use your phone.

Sound quality

Vizio V-Series V21-H8 2.1 SoundbarSimon Cohen / Digital Trends

For its price, the V21 sounds amazing. You get excellent stereo isolation, and that tiny 5-inch wireless subwoofer adds a surprising amount of low-end boom that makes the whole system feel like a movie theater.

Start your favorite Marvel, DC or Star Wars movie and you'll instantly hear what your TV's built-in speakers were keeping away from you.

As you'd expect, it can't possibly compete with more expensive soundbars – there's a definite lack of detail in the mid-range, for example – but for less than $ 200 the V21 will give any TV a huge boost in sound quality, and that's exactly what The point.

Do you like it loud There is more than enough electricity to wake everyone in your house when you roll like this.

The DTS Virtual: X feature doesn't live up to its billing for creating overhead sounds like you get from special high-height speakers, but it does significantly add to the sense of breadth and depth. I recommend leaving it on for any listening where you can sit in front and in the middle.

What I really appreciate about Vizio's approach to the soundbars – even the cheapest ones – is that you have tremendous control over things like bass, treble, and even the subwoofer level. I've tried $ 1,000 worth of soundbars that don't let you tweak the EQ.

Speaking of EQ, the EQ presets (movie, music, dialogue, and game) are great shortcuts for customizing the V21's sound signature. However, you will have to deal again with the deep male voice heralding the mode changes. Dialog mode is particularly impressive as there is no center channel – the usual context for speech enhancement.

Do you like it loud There is more than enough electricity to wake everyone in your house when you roll like this.

Listening to music on the V21 is fun too, but this is where you'll likely notice the limitations of the soundbar. Despite the fact that the left and right front channels do a good job of separating stereo, music still feels cooped up. Vocals and higher frequencies are impressively clear, but there is a vaguely hollow feeling that I attribute to the same mid-range weakness described above.

Don't let that stop you: for better music playback, you'll want to spend more than double the price on a soundbar like the Bose Smart Soundbar 300 that doesn't come with a subwoofer.

Our opinion

Vizio is doing it again. The V-Series V21 Soundbar is a fantastic and affordable sound upgrade for any TV.

Is there a better alternative?

For a 2-channel soundbar with a wireless sub, the V21 is in a class of its own, especially when you consider the price. But I wouldn't be sure if I didn't point out that you can buy this for just $ 70 more Step-up Vizio V-Series V51, which adds a center channel and two surround speakers for a full 5.1 sound system.

How long it will take?

The Vizio V-Series V21 comes with a one year warranty, but I suspect it will have many, many years of use. Loudspeakers are some of the most reliable technology products, and Vizio has a reputation for making products that will last.

Should you buy it?

Yes. The price alone makes the V21 a breeze, but its sound quality and added features will ensure you will make a ton of money.

Editor's recommendations




12