Noteworthy Contenders
While not every high-end soundbar attains a spot on my exclusive roster, it doesn’t imply they lack merit for consideration, particularly contingent on your financial plan and system arrangement. Presented below are additional selections that I and other WIRED evaluators examined and favored.
Marshall Heston 120 for $1300: This inaugural soundbar from the renowned creator of amplifiers and, more recently, Bluetooth speakers, presents several genuine advantages. I particularly admire its elegant aesthetic, accentuated by gleaming gold adjustment dials and stylish vinyl bands reminiscent of Marshall’s emblematic instrument amplifiers. The audio delivery is melodic, intricate, and harmonious, further incorporating robust Dolby Atmos expression. The principal downside, however, is an audio quality that feels somewhat constrained, a characteristic I notably observed when intense scenes developed – a stark contrast to what one might anticipate from a device deeply rooted in rock ‘n roll legacy. Furthermore, the cost climbed by $300 post-release, which considerably lessened its allure.
Yamaha True X Surround 90a for $3,500: Yamaha’s re-entry into the soundbar sector undeniably embodies the ‘premium’ aspect with its astonishingly costly 90a model. This ensemble features a cable-free subwoofer and a pair of entirely wireless, self-powered surround speakers, which can also serve as portable Bluetooth speakers for outdoor use. Evaluator Simon Cohen notes that the audio is superb, offering remarkable detail and surround sound distinctness, in addition to compatibility with Dolby Atmos and other sophisticated 3D audio formats. Nevertheless, it does present several shortcomings, such as less numerous connectivity choices and functionalities than anticipated, alongside certain problems with vocal delivery upon initial setup.
Bluesound Pulse Cinema for $1,499: For those wary of Sonos’ software dependability, Bluesound has emerged as a sanctuary for numerous individuals seeking a robust interconnected platform as an alternative to Sonos speakers. The Bluesound Pulse Cinema provides many functionalities akin to the Sonos Arc Ultra, encompassing the capacity for expansion with additional speakers for multi-room audio, along with sonic enhancements such as upward-firing transducers for Dolby Atmos. Regrettably, it omits standard settings like EQ and channel calibration, and our evaluator determined that its output fails to achieve comparable levels to the Sonos soundbar, rendering its elevated cost more difficult to justify.
Sony Bravia Theater 9 for $1,200-$1,500: While Sony’s newest top-tier soundbar functions competently in isolation, it does not surpass the quality of the HT-A7000, the model it supersedes. Its design is more streamlined (or, to be frank, more uninspired), featuring less numerous ports and audio configurations, and its sound lacks the substantial presence in the mid-frequency range or bass. Nevertheless, as a Sony top-tier soundbar, it still signifies fine intricacy, robust musical rendition, and commendable engulfment with 3D audio formats such as Dolby Atmos. However, a refreshed design (accompanied by an elevated price) does not inherently ensure an enhancement, and this particular soundbar appears to be a regression.
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