ISSUE #30 SEP 2021 - Nakamichi USA

ISSUE #30 SEP 2021

There is still one aspect where today’s modern flat-panel 4K TVs do not cut it: Sound.

With the latest OLED and QLED technologies, modern, thinner and space-saving flat-panel 4K TVs deliver the best picture quality we have ever seen.

However, their slim and minimalistic designs leave them no room to fit in good full-range speaker drivers. As an alternative, small built-in TV speakers are usually embedded behind or underneath them, often resulting in sub-standard dialog, thin sound and inade-quate bass. So, how do people match their 4K TVs with immersive sound?

Traditionally, people would assemble a multi-speaker surround sound system powered by an Audio Video Receiver (AVR) with five or more surround speakers. However, it is typically costly, time-consuming and requires a lot of space to fit all the speakers, including the wires, in one’s living room. A simple plug and play alternative is to use a soundbar.

Some soundbars today can effectively contend with full-featured surround sound systems. Slim, easy to setup and affordable, they have evolved from singular, rectangular-shaped speaker boxes with only 2 channels to high-performance multi-channel surround soundbar systems. The latter can now deliver theater quality im-mersive surround sound experiences without the complexity and hassle of assembling traditional AVR-powered surround sound systems.

It is no surprise that there are many soundbars available in the market today, ranging from “simulated surround” soundbars sold at as low as $100 to “true discrete surround” soundbar systems, some of which come with two subwoofers and multiple surround speakers that cost more than $1,000.

There are several tips to look out for when choosing the right soundbar system. We have added a comprehensive comparison table with the top reviewed soundbars for you to make the best purchase decision.

BACKGROUND

BEST SOUNDBAR BUYING GUIDE: BACKGROUND2

Types of SoundbarsThere are 3 types of soundbars available in the market for different needs:

TIPS

BEST SOUNDBAR BUYING GUIDE: TIPS4

TYPES ACTIVE SOUNDBAR PASSIVE SOUNDBAR SOUNDBASE

Character-istics

Includes everything you need in one box (speak-ers, subwoofer, amplifier, processor and connection ports)

Separate audio video receiver (AVR) required (for amplification, signal processing and connection ports)

Standalone speaker that acts as pedestal for your TV while improving sound quality

Placement 1. On the console2. Wall mountable

1. On the console2. Wall mountable

1. On the console (under theTV)

Pros1. Simple to setup2. Small footprint3. Less cabling

1. Flexible for customization2. Future expandability

1. More depth improvesbass output

2. Simple with single unit

Cons

1. Fixed system configura-tion

2. Not expandable

1. Costly setup2. Home theater speaker

knowledge required3. More cabling4. Bigger footprint

1. Limited bass effect com-pared to soundbar withexternal subwoofer

2. Limited stereo separation3. Unusable for large TVs

with feet located at bothends

BEST SOUNDBAR BUYING GUIDE: TIPS 5

TYPES VIRTUAL SIMULATED SURROUND TRUE DISCRETE SURROUND

CharacteristicsRelies on sound to reflect off your walls to trick your ears into thinking there are speakers all around you

Discrete surround speakers placed around listening position similar to a traditional home theater system

AudioPerformance

1. More powerful and dynamic soundthan your TV speakers

2. Widen the soundstage of your TV

1. More prominent surround effectswith accurate sound directivity

2. Delivers home theater experience

Pros

1. Clean and neat setup with singlesoundbar

2. Less cabling3. Soundstage wider than its size

1. Sound from all directions; true sur-round sound

2. Consistent surround sound qualityregardless of room shape/size

3. Easier to set up than traditional sur-round sound system

4. Wider listening sweet spot

Cons

1. Highly dependent on room shape andsize

2. Narrow sweet spot3. Lack of rear surround effects; sound

only coming from front

1. More space required for setup2. Slightly more Cabling3. More expensive

Source: Yamaha website

Virtual vs True Discrete SurroundTo get the best surround sound experience, multiple speakers are needed. In sound-bars, there are 2 methods to achieve surround sound.

Do you need a subwoofer?Do you like to get your adrenaline pumped from chest-thumping explosions and low-rumbling thun-der effects? If your answer is yes, you probably do need a subwoofer.

In any sound system, the subwoofer is a key compo-nent dedicated to reproducing low-frequency sound effects. No matter how powerful a soundbar is, the full impact of your movies will never be felt if a ded-icated subwoofer is not used. The subwoofer driver size also plays a major role in how loud and deep your bass can go. For good bass impact and feel, we recommend subwoofers with driver sizes of at least 8 to 10 inches. Lastly, there should also be sufficient space in the subwoofer’s enclosure to accommo-date the rapid shifts of air caused by the driver’s movements. All in all, a soundbar with a dedicated subwoofer will deliver a fuller and more immersive audio experience for your entertainment.

Source: Sonos website


TYPES WIRED SUBWOOFER WIRELESS SUBWOOFER

Pros Plug and play Freedom of placement, no audio cable required

Cons Placement restricted by cable length Interference may occur by other wireless devices

There are 2 types of connections for external subwoofer available:

TYPES BUILT-IN SUBWOOFER

SINGLE DEDICATEDSUBWOOFER

DUAL DEDICATEDSUBWOOFERS

Characteristics

Subwoofer integrated into soundbar without a separate, external en-closure

Dedicated powered subwoofer for more impactful bass

TWO dedicated powered subwoofers that emulate the movie theater, for deep and room-filling bass

Pros

1. Better-than-TV basseffect

2. Space-saving solution3. No additional connec-

tion needed

1. More powerful bassoutput

2. Deeper bass withbigger driver(typically 5” to 10”)

3. Better bass distribu-tion

1. More powerful bass withgreater headroom

2. Less bass distortion3. Deeper bass with bigger

driver (typically 8” to 10”)4. Zero bass localization5. Room-filling listening

sweet spot6. Evenly-distributed bass

across the room; maxi-mum sweet spots

Cons

1. Driver size is restricted(typically 2.5” to 4”)

2. Bass is not as deepand impactful as a asdedicated subwoofer

1. Localizable bass ifnot placed strategi-cally

2. Limited listeningsweet spot

3. Space requirement

1. Space requirement2. More expensive

There are 3 types of subwoofers can be found in a soundbar system:


Number of channels You have probably come across some numbers like ‘2.0’, ‘3.1’ or ‘5.1.4’. Typically, these numbers represent the number of discrete channels in a sound system. Each discrete channel is independent, meaning that it outputs an entirely separate and different sound signal from the rest.

What is the significance?This is important especially when listening to multi-channel surround sound that main-stream movies are usually encoded with, where the surround sound effects are mapped by the sound engineers to be outputted to various channels depending on where they should be coming from based on what is happening in the movie scenes.

Surround sound on soundbarsMost soundbars simulate the surround sound effects using a technique called virtualiza-tion, which involves the cross-mixing/matrixing of the multi-channel sound information to give listeners the impression that they are listening to surround sound.

However, soundbars with dedicated surround speakers have significant advantages in terms of delivering more immersive and precise surround sound that is closer to what the movie sound engineers intended.

Source: Nakamichi


TYPES VIRTUAL SIMULATED SURROUND TRUE DISCRETE SURROUND

2.X Stereo audio with wider soundstage Stereo audio with wider soundstage

3.X Addition of center channel for clearer dialog

Addition of center channel for clearer dialog

5.XAddition of side-firing channels on the soundbar to create simulated surround by reflecting the sound off the walls

Separate left, right and center channels on soundbar. Addition of two surround speakers to provide more accurate direc-tional sound effects from left to right and front to back for more realism

7.X

Addition of surround channels on the soundbar for more detailed simulated surround. Sound is also reflected off the walls to mimic true discrete surround sound

Addition of 2 more surround speakers to complete a 360-degree surround sound coverage

9.X and above N.A.Additional effects channels for wider soundstage, completing the 360 degree surround sound capsule

Source: Samsung website


Supported Audio FormatDolby and DTS are the 2 companies who are dominating the world of audio-compression technologies. They develop most of all the audio formats that mainstream video content is encoded in, including those found on online video streaming platforms like Netflix, Blu-ray discs, gaming and broadcasting. When such content is decoded by sound sys-tems, the sound outputted is known to be rich, dynamic and of high-quality. The various Dolby and DTS audio formats, such as Dolby Digital and DTS Digital Surround, are also widely adopted by movie theaters and production studios.

Another common audio format, called Pulse Code Modulation (PCM), contains an al-ready-decoded Dolby or DTS audio signal. Since the audio is already decoded, it provides the best compatibility across the large variety of devices. However, it is not the most suitable format for reproducing the intended surround sound experience intended by the content producers.

The following tables show the mainstream surround sound formats currently available on soundbar systems:

TYPES DTS:X DTS-HD MAS-TER AUDIO DTS-HD DTS DIGITAL

SURROUND PCM

Description

High bitrate, lossless ob-ject-based surround with height chan-nels

High bitrate, lossless sur-round with 2 extra rear channels

Lossy surround format with more channels than DTS Digi-tal Surround

Lossy surround with lesser compression than Dolby Digital

Decoded audio format from Dolby/DTS sur-round audio or stereo

Audio Chan-nels (Max) 9.2 / 7.1.4 7.1 7.1 5.1 7.1

Content Blu-ray Disc Blu-ray Disc Blu-ray DiscBlu-ray Disc, Console Gam-ing, DVD

Music, Blue-tooth, Aux, TV Broadcast

PCM

Source: DTS website


TYPES DOLBY ATMOS DOLBY TRUEHD DOLBY DIGITAL PLUS DOLBY DIGITAL

DescriptionObject-based sur-round with height channels

Lossless surround format with 2 extra rear channels

Lossy, lower bit-rate surround with more channels for streaming content

Basic lossy sur-round

Audio Channels (Max) 9.1.6 7.1 7.1 5.1

Content

Streaming Content (Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, VUDU, Tidal), Blu-ray Disc, XBox One Consoles, PC

Blu-ray Disc

Streaming Content (Netflix, HBO Go, Amazon Prime Video, Dolby Atmos Music)

Blu-ray Disc, Con-sole Gaming, DVD, TV Broadcast

Source: Dolby website


ConnectivityThe numerous connectivity options that typically come in soundbars give them a major advantage over most sound systems because they can essentially replace the role of the Audio Video Receiver (AVR) used in traditional full-featured surround sound systems. To determine the receiving and processing capabilities of your soundbar, it is important to understand each connectivity type.

i. HDMI vs Optical/CoaxialHDMI is currently the most advanced digital connection available for home audio andvideo devices. HDMI-connectivity is commonly found in premium soundbars that havemultiple inputs for connecting to various media devices. A HDMI cable has a higherbandwidth that allows the transfer of high-definition video formats (4K UHD) as wellas high-quality multi-channel audio. In addition, HDMI supports Audio Return Channel(ARC) when connected to a TV, where a 2-way transfer of audio and video signals be-tween the soundbar and TV via a single HDMI ARC connection is possible (see page 14for more information about different HDMI versions).

Optical and Coaxial connections are both in digital format for audio transmission. However, it has lower transmission band-width compared to HDMI. Its output is re-stricted to Dolby Digital and DTS Digital Surround in 5.1 bitstream signal only. The lower bandwidth also restricts the PCM option in a 2-channel signal only.

TYPES HDMI OPTICAL/COAXIAL

Stereo 2.0: (Dolby & DTS & PCM) Yes Yes

Compressed 5.1: Yes Yes

Uncompressed 5.1: Yes No

Uncompressed 7.1: Yes No

Object-based Audio: Yes No

Link Discovery:Volume Control/Mute, Power Control Yes (CEC) No

2-Way Transmission for TV (Video and Audio) Yes (ARC) No



ii. Bluetooth vs WiFiWith at least Bluetooth connectivity found in all soundbars today, they can indeed per-form well as living room speakers. Commonly, they are paired with mobile devices toplay stereo content from platforms such as Spotify, YouTube and iTunes. Some sound-bars also support higher bandwidth codec such as AptX, AptX-HD, AAC and LDAC, al-lowing the transfer of high-quality audio wirelessly via Bluetooth.

WiFi connectivity is becoming increasingly popular in sound-bars. As compared to Blue-tooth, it allows your soundbar to communicate with other devices within the same net-work, such that it is possible to stream music from anywhere instead of being constrained to 33ft in Bluetooth. It also pro-vides quicker access to online audio streaming services such as Spotify, Pandora and Tidal, online video streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime and Google Chromecast, as well as the user’s personal net-work-connected library.


iii. 4K Compatibility4K Ultra High Definition (UHD) is the high resolution video standard that is rapidly being adoptedby streaming services including Netflix, Amazon Prime and Apple TV. Therefore, it is essential tohave 4K compatibility on your soundbar today so that the high-definition video can be passed throughto your TV. There are also hardware requirements for soundbars to send and receive 4K content,namely HDMI 2.0 and HDCP2.2 standards, so it is important to look out for them.

TYPES HDMI 2.0 HDMI 1.4

Description Connection standard for 4K/60fps videodevices with higher bandwidth and HDR

Connection standard for 4K video devices with lower bandwidth

Key Spec

1. Up to 4K (2160p) @ 50/60 fps2. Up to 12 bit color depth with HDR3. Up to 32 audio channels with ob-

ject-based surround4. Dynamic synchronization of audio and

video stream

1. Up to 4K (2160p) @ 24 fps2. Up to 8 bit color depth3. Up to 8 audio channels

Connector HDMI HDMI

Hardware 4K UHD TV, 4K UHD Blu-ray Player, 4K Streaming Devices, Gaming Consoles

4K TV, Blu-ray Player, Streaming Devices, Gaming Consoles


TYPES HDCP 2.2 HDCP 2.1/2.0/1.4

Description Content protection to prevent making ille-gal copy of 4K UHD video

Content protection to prevent making ille-gal copy of HD video

Key Spec

1. Create encrypted keys between thesource and the display

2. Required to transmit 4K content be-tween devices

1. Create encrypted keys between thesource and the display

2. Designed for 1080p HD content

Connector HDMI, DVI, DisplayPort, USB, Wireless(WiFi) HDMI, DVI, DisplayPort

Hardware 4K UHD TV, 4K UHD Blu-ray Player, 4K Streaming Devices, Gaming Consoles

HD TV, Blu-ray Player, Streaming Devices, Gaming Consoles

TYPES DOLBY VISION HDR10+ HDR10 HDR HYBRID-LOGGAMMA

Descrip-tion

Dolby version of HDR that is encoded scene by scene or frame-by-frame

Scene by scene approach based on HDR10 tech-nique

HDR with average brightness range throughout the entire content

High Dynamic Range with wide color gamut with lifelike bright-ness and contrast levels

HDR format de-signed for cable, satellite and TV broadcasts

Key Spec

Brightness levels present at a given reference frame or scene rather than limited value for the entire film

Brightest point vs darkest point in a video content is determined based on scene-by-scene

Brightest point vs darkest point in a video content is determined and fixed for the entire video

Equal clarity and brightness levels in between very bright and darker elements in the same frame

Designed for OTA broadcast with backward com-patibility for SDR TVs

Content

Online streaming contents (Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Vudu), 4K Blu-ray Disc

Compatible with HDR10/HDR con-tents

Online streaming (Netflix), Com-patible with HDR contents

Online streaming (Netflix and Apple TV), Blu-ray Disc, Console Gaming

NHK (Japan), BBC (UK)

Creator Dolby Samsung, Pana-sonic, Fox Open Standard Open Standard NHK, BBC

iv. 4K HDR StandardsThere are multiple HDR standards avail-able along with 4K UHD content to pro-vide lifelike picture quality with dynamiccontrast, high brightness and vibrant co-lour. Streaming services such as Netflixand Apple TV are increasing the numberof 4K HDR contents available for viewing.

HYBRID-LOG GAMMA

Source: Dolby website


ControlsUser experience is also an important factor when choosing the right soundbar. The ease of control and navigation are critical for a hassle-free configuration and easy to use ex-perience whenever you turn on the soundbar.


i. On Screen DisplayOn screen display provides visu-al feedback for more complicat-ed features on TV. This feature iscommonly found on the sound-bars that come with networkconnection and built-in onlinestreaming services that requireuser navigation during setup andcontent selection.

ii. LED DisplayTypically found on premium soundbars, LED displays provide visual feedback on volumelevel, input sources, audio settings, via the LED panel on the soundbar.

Source: Sony


iv. Remote ControlAbout every home theater devicecomes with its own remote but sound-bars are an exception. There are somesoundbars in the lower price rangethat do not include a remote but in-stead rely on programming the TVsettings to enable soundbar control.However, it does not always work inpractice, and only basic functions canbe operated. If you want to controlyour feature-rich soundbar seam-lessly, nothing beats having a remote.

iii. HDMI CECConsumer Electronics Control (CEC) is a feature of HDMI designed to allow users to con-trol devices connected via HDMI using only one remote control. For example, with CEC,the TV remote can be used to control the soundbar, set-top boxes and Blu-ray player thatare all connected via HDMI.


Source: Yamaha

Source: Nakamichi website

YEAR 2020 2020 2020 2020 2020 2020 2017 2020 2019 2020 2019 2020 2020MODEL NAKAMICHI SONOS NAKAMICHI KLIPSCH SAMSUNG NAKAMICHI JBL JBL SONY KLIPSCH SONY VIZIO SONY

SHOCKWAFE ULTRA 9.2 SSE

ARCSHOCKWAFE ELITE 7.2

SSECinema 600 Q950T

SHOCKWAFE PRO 7.1 SSE

Bar 5.1 Bar 9.1 HT-Z9F Cinema 400 HT-X8500 Elevate HT-G700

PRICE & RATINGPrice* $1,399 $899 $999 $499 $1,498 $749 $500 $999 $898 $299 $300 $999 $598

Rating* 4.7 4.7 4.6 4.6 4.5 4.5 4.5 4.4 4.4 4.4 4.4 4.3 4.3Number of Reviews* 433 166 315 439 44 126 1270 174 222 289 171 71 195AUDIO DECODERS

DTS

DTS:XDTS-HD MA

DTS-HDDTS Digital Surround

-

DTS:XDTS-HD MA


-

DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS Digital Surround

DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


-

DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


Dolby

Dolby AtmosDolby TrueHD

Dolby Digital PlusDolby Digital





Dolby Digital





Dolby Digital

Dolby Atmos Dolby TrueHD




Dolby Digital







AUDIO CONFIGURATION

Surround Effects Discrete Surround Simulated Surround Discrete Surround Simulated Surround Discrete Surround Discrete Surround Discrete Surround Discrete SurroundSimulated Surround

(Virtual Height)Simulated Surround

Simulated Surround(Virtual Height)

Discrete SurroundSimulated Surround

(Virtual Height)Channel Configuration / Speaker

Drivers9.2.4 / 18 Drivers 5.0.2 / 11 Drivers 7.2.4 / 14 Drivers 3.1 / 8 Drivers 9.1.4 / 20 Drivers 7.1.4 / 13 Drivers 5.1 / 12 Speakers 5.1.4 / 14 Drivers 3.1 / 3 Drivers 2.1 / 5 Drivers 2.1 / 4 Drivers 5.1.4 / 18 Drivers 2.1 / 3 Drivers

Subwoofer Quantity / Connection / Driver Size

2 / Wireless / 10” No (Optional Add-On) 2 / Wireless / 8” 1 / Wireless / 10" 1 / Wireless / 8" 1 / Wireless / 8” 1 / Wireless / 10" 1 / Wireless / 10" 1 / Wireless / 6.3" 1 / Wireless / 8" No 1 / Wireless / 8" 1 / Wireless / 6.5"

Rear Speakers Quantity / Connection / Design

4 / Wired / 2-Way No (Optional Add-On) 2 / Wired / 2-Way No (Optional Add-on) Wireless Speakers 2 / Wired / 2-Way 2 / Wired / 1-Way 2 / Wireless / 2-Way No (Optional Add-On) No No 2 / Wireless / 2-Way No

Power 1000W - 800W 600W / 103dB 546W 600W 510w 820w 400W 400W / 99dB - 340W 400W

Audio ModeMovie, Music, Sports,

News, Game, Clear Voice, DSP OFF

Speech EnhancementMovie, Music, Sports,


Virtual Surround ModeAdaptive Sound, Game Pro, Standard, Surround

Sound expansion

Movie, Music, Sports, News, Game, Clear Voice,

DSP OFF

Standard, Music, Movie, Voice, Sport

Standard, Music, Movie, Night

Auto Sound, Theater, Music, Game Studio, News,

Sports, StandardVirtual Surround Mode

Auto Sound, Cinema, Music, Game, News,

Sports, Standard

Music, Movie, Direct, Game

Auto Sound,Cinema,Music,Stand

ard

Clear Voice / Night Mode / Lip Sync Yes / Yes / Yes Yes / Yes / No Yes / Yes / Yes Yes / Yes / No Yes / No / Yes Yes / Yes / Yes Yes / Yes / No No / Yes / No Yes / Yes / No Yes / Yes / No Yes / Yes / No No / Yes / No Yes / Yes / No

Other Audio Features

Spatial Surround Elevation (SSE) Technology, Module Rear Speakers, Room Size

Configuration

TruePlay


Configuration

Subwooofer (LFE) OutputAcoustic Beam 2.0

Technology, Q-Symphony


Configuration

Room Calibration Room Calibration

S-Force PRO, Digital Sound Enhancement

Engine H, Vertical Surround Engine, Bluetooth Transmit

Subwooofer (LFE) OutputS-Force PRO, Vertical Surround Engine, DTS

Virtual:X

DTS Virtual:X, DTS TruVolume

S-Force PRO,Vertical Surround Engine,DTS

Virtual:X

CONNECTIVITY

Resolution/HDR 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision - 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision No 4K / HDR10+ 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision,

HLGNo

4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG

4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision,

HLGHDCP 2.2 - 2.2 - 2.3 2.2 2.3 2.3 2.2 - 2.2 / 2.3 2.3 2.2

HDMI Input / Version 3 / 2.0a - 3 / 2.0a No 2 3 / 2.0a - 1 1 / 2.0a No 1 / 2.0a 2 1 / 2.0a

HDMI Output / Version / ARC 1 / 2.0a / ARC 1 / 2.1 / eARC 1 / 2.0a / ARC 1 / 1.4 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0a / ARC 3 / 1.4 / ARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0a / eARC 1 / 1.4 1 / 2.0a / eARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0a / eARC

HDMI CEC Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes (SIMPLINK) Yes Yes Yes Yes (BRAVIA Sync) Yes Yes (BRAVIA Sync) Yes Yes (BRAVIA Sync)Stream ATMOS from TV Apps Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes No Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes

Optical / Coaxial 1 / 11 (Shared with HDMI

eARC) / No1 / 1 1 / No 1 / No 1 / 1 1 / No 1 / No 1 / No 1 / No 1 / No 1 / No 1 / No

Analog / Connection Type 1 / 3.5mm - 1 / 3.5mm 1 / 3.5mm - 1 / 3.5mm 1 / 3.5mm 1 / 3.5mm 1 / 3.5mm 1 / 3.5mm No 2 / 3.5mm No

Bluetooth Version / Codec / NFC 4.1 / AptX / No - 4.1 / AptX / No Yes / SBC / No 5.0 / - / - 4.1 / AptX / No 4.2 / A2DP \/ TBD 4.2 / A2DP / No 4.2 / LDAC / No Yes / SBC / No 5.0 / AAC / No 5.0 / SBC / No 5.0 / - / No

USB (Function) 1 (Music, Service) - 1 (Music, Service) No 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) 1(Music, Service) 1(Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) No 1 (Service) 1(Music, Service) 1 (Service)WiFi / Ethernet No / No Yes / Yes No / No No / No Yes / No No / No No / No Yes / No Yes / Yes No / No No / No Yes / No No / No

USER EXPERIENCELED Display Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No No Yes (on Remote) Yes

Remote Control Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Streaming Service NoSonos App,

Apple AirPlay 2, No No - No No Airplay / Chromecast

Spotify Connect, Chromecast

No No Chromecast No

Multi-Room / Mobile App No / No Yes/Sonos App No / No No / Yes SmartThings App No / No No / No No / NoYes / Sony Music Center

AppNo / No No / No No / Yes No / No

Voice Assistant / Control /Smart Home No / No / NoAmazon Alexa, Google

AssistantNo / No / No No / No / No Amazon Alexa No / No / No No / No / No Google Home / No / No No / No / No No / No / No No / No / No

"Using External Devices" / No / No

No / No / No

DIMENSION & WEIGHT

Soundbar 45.5 x 3.5 x 3.0inch / 7.3lbs3.4 x 45 x 4.5 inch /

13.78lbs45.5 x 3.5 x 3.0inch / 7.3lbs

45 x 2.8 x 3.4 inch / Undisclosed

48.0 x 2.7 x 5.4 inch/ 15.7lbs

45.5 x 3.3 x 3.0inch / 7.3lbs 45 x 2.3 x 3.7 inch / 8.6lbs 34.8 x 2.4 x 4.7 inch / 8lbs 39.3 × 2.6 × 4 inch / 6.13lbs39.9 x 2.9 x 3.4inch /

Undisclosed35.1 x 2.6 x 3.9inch / 6.8lbs

48.0 x 6.5 x 2.6 inch / 12.4lbs

38.58 x 2.52 x 4.25 inch / 7.12lbs

Subwoofer 13 x 11 x 20.5inch / 23.4lbs No9.5 x 12 x 20.5inch /

19.0lbs14.1 x 18.5 x 14.5 inch /

Undisclosed8.3 x 15.9 x 15.9 inch/

21.6lbs9.5 x 12 x 20.5inch / 19lbs 16 x 12 x 12 inch / 28.7lbs

12.0 x 17.3 x 12.0 inch / 24.5 lbs

7.5 x 15.1 x 15.2inch / 17.14lbs

11.9 x 16.1 x 16.1inch / Undisclosed

-10.8 x 15.6 x 13.8 inch /

25.7 lbs7.6 x 15.2 x 16 inch /

16.9lbs

Surround Speakers 5.0 x 5.4 x 8inch / 2.8lbs No 5.0 x 5.4 x 8inch / 2.8lbs No (Optional) 4.7 x 8.3 x 5.6 inch / 4.6lbs 5.0 x 5.4 x 8inch / 2.8lbs 6.5 x 2.3 x 3.7 inch / 1.3lbs 6.8 x 2.4 x 4.7 inch / 1.6lbs - No -2.8 x 5.9 x 3.7 inch /

2.28lbs-

* Based on Amazon's reviews for Best-Selling Dolby Atmos soundbars above $300 as of 9/12/2021. For accuracy, ratings are only displayed for Soundbars with more than 40 Reviews. ̂Soundbar is not available on Amazon.

PAGE 18 SOUNDBARS COMPARISON

DOLBY ATMOS SOUNDBARS – COMPARISON GUIDE (SORTED BY RATING)

YEAR 2017 2020 2021 2021 2021 2019 2021 2020 2021 2021 2021 2021 2021 2021MODEL SONY Vizio SAMSUNG SAMSUNG SAMSUNG SENNHEISER LG LG LG LG KLIPSCH KLIPSCH SONY BOSE

HT-ST5000 M51ax-J6 Q950A Q900A Q800A AMBEO SP11RA SN11RG SP9YA SP8YA Cinema 1200 Cinema 800 HT-A7000 SOUNDBAR 900

PRICE & RATINGPrice* $1,498 $350 $1,800 $1,299 $899 $2,499 TBA 1696.99 999.99 799.99 $1,899 $969 $1,300 $899

Rating* 4.0 NA NA NA NA NA Coming Soon NA NA NA Coming Soon NA Coming Soon Coming SoonNumber of Reviews* 159 20 21 3 5 20 - 8 4 28 - 8 - -AUDIO DECODERS

DTS

DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD LBR

DTS-ESDSD

DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


- -

DTS:XDTS-HD MA


-

Dolby





























AUDIO CONFIGURATION

Surround Effects Simulated Surround Discrete Surround Discrete Surround Simulated Surround Simulated Surround Simulated Surround Discrete Surround Discrete Surround Simulated Surround Simulated Surround Simulated Surround Simulated Surround Simulated Surround Simulated Surround

Channel Configuration / Speaker Drivers

3.1.2 / 7 Drivers 5.1 / 9 Speakers 11.1.4 / 22 7.1.2 / 16 3.1.2 / 9 Drivers 5.1.4 / 13 Drivers 7.1.4 / 12 Drivers 7.1.4 / 12 Drivers 5.1.2 / 8 Drivers 3.1.2 / 6 Drivers 5.1.4 / 16 Drivers 3.1 / 8 Drivers 5.1.2 / 9 Drivers 3.0.2 / 9 Drivers


1 / Wireless / 7.1" 1 / Wireless / 5" 1 / Wireless / 8” 1 / Wireless / 8” 1 / Wireless / 8" No 1 / Wireless / 7" 1 / Wireless / 7" 1 / Wireless / 7" 1 / Wireless / 7" 1 / Wireless / 12" 1 / Wireless / 10"2 / Built-In/

2" x 3.8" Rectangular. Optional Add-On

No (Optional Add-On)


No 2 / Wired 2 / Wireless / 3-Way No (Optional Add-On) No (Optional Add-On) No 2 / Wireless 2 / Wireless No (Optional Add-On) No (Optional Add-On) 2 / Wireless No (Optional Add-On) No (Optional Add-On) No (Optional Add-On)

Power 800W Undisclosed 616W 406W 330 W 500W 770W 770W 520W 440W 1200W / 109dB 800W / 107dB 500W Undisclosed

Audio Mode3D Surround, ClearAudio+,

Game Studio, Movie, Sports, Standard Surround

Music, Movie, Direct, Game

Adaptive Sound, Game Pro, Standard, Surround

Sound expansion

Adaptive Sound, Game Pro, Standard, Surround Sound

expansion


Sound expansion

Movie, Music, Sports, Neutral

Adaptive Sound Control ("AI Sound Pro"), Bass Blast +, Movie, Music




Virtual Surround Mode Virtual Surround ModeAutoSound, Cinema, Music, Standard, Immersive Audio

EnhancementNone

Clear Voice / Night Mode / Lip Sync

Yes / Yes / No No / Yes / No Yes / No / Yes Yes / No / Yes Yes / No / Yes No / Yes / No No / Yes / No No / Yes / No No / Yes / No No / Yes / No Yes / Yes / No Yes / Yes / No Yes / Yes / No No / No / No



Engine HX, S-Master HX Digital amplifier

DTS Virtual:X, DTS TruVolume

Acoustic Beam 2.0 Technology, Q-Symphony,

Auto-EQ


Auto-EQ

Acoustic Beam 2.0 Technology, Q-Symphony

AMBEO On/Off, VR Virtualization Technology,

Upmix Technology

Merdian Technology, AI Room Calibration




Subwooofer (LFE) Output Subwooofer (LFE) OutputS-Force PRO, Vertical

Surround Engine, Dolby Speaker Virtual

SimpleSync, ADAPTiQ Audio Calibration

CONNECTIVITY

Resolution/HDR4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision,

HLG4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10+ 4K / HDR10+ 4K / HDR10+ 4K / Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision


-

HDCP 2.2 2.3 2.3 2.3 - Coming Soon 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.2 -HDMI Input / Version 1 / 2.0a 1 2 2 1 3 / 2.0a 2 / 2.0 2 / 2.0 2 / 2.0 1 / 2.0 2 / 2.1 2 / 2.1 2 / 2.0a -

HDMI Output / Version / ARC 1 / 2.0a / eARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0a / eARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.1 / eARC 1 / 2.1 / eARC 1 / 2.0a / eARC 1 / 2.1 / eARC

HDMI CEC Yes (BRAVIA Sync) Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes (SIMPLINK) Yes (SIMPLINK) Yes (SIMPLINK) Yes (SIMPLINK) Yes Yes Yes (BRAVIA Sync) YesStream ATMOS from TV Apps Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Optical / Coaxial 1 / No 1 / No 1 / No 1 / No 1 / No 1 / No 1 / No 1 / No 1 / No 1 / No 1 / No 1 / No 1 / No 1 / No

Analog / Connection Type 1 / 3.5mm 2 / 3.5mm - - - No / 3.5mm - - - - 1 / 3.5mm 1 / 3.5mm 1 / 3.5mm -

Bluetooth Version / Codec / NFC 4.1 / LDAC / Yes 5.0 / TBD / TBD 4.2 / - / - 4.2 / - / - 4.2 / - / - 4.2 / AAC / Yes 5.0 / SBC, AAC / - 5.0 / SBC / - 5.0 / SBC, AAC / - 5.0 / SBC, AAC / - Yes Yes 5.0 / LDAC + AAC / No 4.2 / SBC / No

USB (Function) 1 (Music, Service) 1(Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) Micro-USB (Service) 1 (Service) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Service)WiFi / Ethernet Yes / Yes No / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / Yes Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / Yes Yes / Yes Yes / No Yes / Yes

USER EXPERIENCELED Display Yes Yes (on Remote) Yes Yes No Yes Yes (LCD) Yes (LCD) Yes (LCD) Yes (LCD) Yes Yes Yes Yes

Remote Control Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Streaming ServiceSpotify Connect,

ChromecastNo - - - Chromecast / UPnP Chromecast Chromecast Chromecast Chromecast

Google Chromecast, Amazon Alexa

Google Chromecast, Amazon Alexa

Spotify Connect, Chromecast

Spotify Connect, Apple Airplay 2

Multi-Room / Mobile AppYes / Sony Music Center

AppNo / No SmartThings App SmartThings App SmartThings App No / Yes Yes / Yes Yes / Yes Yes / Yes Yes / Yes No / Yes No / Yes

No / Sony Music Center App

Bose SimpleSync / Bose Music App

Voice Assistant / Control /Smart Home

Google Home / No / No"Using External Devices" /

No / NoAmazon Alexa Amazon Alexa Amazon Alexa Google Assistant

Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant

Google Assistant / LG ThinQ


Google Assistant / LG ThinQ

- / Google Assistant / - - / Google Assistant / - Google Home / No / NoAlexa, Google Assistant /

Voice4VideoDIMENSION & WEIGHT

Soundbar46.46 x 3.15 x 5.71 inch /

18.08lbs36.0 x 2.2 x 3.5 inch /

5.53lbs48.5 x 2.7 x 5.4 inch / 15.7

lb48.0 x 2.7 x 5.4 inch /

15.7lbs38.6 x 2.4 x 4.5inch / 7.9lbs 49.8 x 5 x 6.7inch / 40.8lbs

56.8 x 2.5 x 5.8inch / 15.9lbs

56.8 x 2.5 x 5.8inch / 15.9lbs

48.0 x 2.2 x 5.7inch / 13.9lbs

41.7 x 2.2 x 4.7inch / 9.7lbs54 x 3 x 6.2 inch /

Undisclosed48 x 2.9 x 3.4 inch / 22 lbs 51.25 x 3.25 x 5.6in / 19.2lb

41.14 x 2.29 x 4.21in / 12.68lb

Subwoofer9.76 x 15.87 x 16.77 inch/

31.09lbs8.3 x 9.9 x 8.3 inch

7.6 lbs8.3 x 15.9 x 15.9 inch /

21.6lbs8.3 x 15.9 x 15.9 inch /

21.6lbs8.1 x 15.9 x 15.9 inch /

21.6lbs-

8.3 x 15.4 x 12.3inch / 17.2lbs

8.7 x 15.4 x 12.3inch / 17.2lbs

8.7 x 15.4 x 12.3inch / 17.2lbs

8.7 x 15.4 x 12.3inch / 17.2lbs

15.6 x 20.3 x 15.9 inch / Undisclosed

14.5 x 18.5 x 14.5 inch/ Undisclosed

- -

Surround Speakers -5.7 x 2.24 x 3.54 inch /

1.0 lbs4.9 x 8 x 5.6 inch / 4 lb No No - 5.1 x 8.2 x 7.5inch / 5.7lbs 5.1 x 8.2 x 7.5inch / 5.8lbs No No Undisclosed No (Optional) - -


DOLBY ATMOS SOUNDBARS – COMPARISON GUIDE (SORTED BY RATING)

SAMSUNG SOUNDBARS

SAMSUNG SAMSUNG SAMSUNG SAMSUNG SAMSUNG NAKAMICHI SONOS NAKAMICHI SONY

Q700A Q800A Q900A Q950A Q950TSHOCKWAFE ULTRA 9.2

SSEARC

SHOCKWAFE ELITE 7.2 SSE

HT-X8500

PRICE & RATINGPrice** $699 $899 $1,299 $1,800 $1,498 $1,399 $899 $999 $300

Rating** NA NA NA NA 4.5 4.7 4.7 4.6 4.4Number of Reviews** 10 5 3 21 44 433 166 315 171AUDIO DECODERS

DTS

DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


-

DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


Dolby



















AUDIO CONFIGURATION

Surround Effects Simulated Surround Simulated Surround Simulated Surround Discrete Surround Discrete Surround Discrete Surround Simulated Surround Discrete SurroundSimulated Surround


Drivers3.1.2 / 9 Drivers 3.1.2 / 9 Drivers 7.1.2 / 16 11.1.4 / 22 9.1.4 / 20 Drivers 9.2.4 / 18 Drivers 5.0.2 / 11 Drivers 7.2.4 / 14 Drivers 2.1 / 4 Drivers


1 / Wireless / 6.5" 1 / Wireless / 8" 1 / Wireless / 8” 1 / Wireless / 8” 1 / Wireless / 8" 2 / Wireless / 10” No (Optional Add-On) 2 / Wireless / 8” No


No No (Optional Add-On) No (Optional Add-On) 2 / Wireless / 3-Way 2 / Wireless / 2-Way 4 / Wired / 2-Way No (Optional Add-On) 2 / Wired / 2-Way No

Audio Output 330 W 330 W 406W 616W 546W 1000W - 800W -

Audio ModeAdaptive Sound, Game Pro, Standard, Surround

Sound expansion


Sound expansion


Sound expansion


Sound expansion


Sound expansion


DSP OFFSpeech Enhancement


DSP OFF


Sports, StandardClear Voice / Night Mode / Lip Sync Yes / No / Yes Yes / No / Yes Yes / No / Yes Yes / No / Yes Yes / No / Yes Yes / Yes / Yes Yes / Yes / No Yes / Yes / Yes Yes / Yes / No

Other Audio FeaturesAcoustic Beam 2.0

Technology, Q-SymphonyAcoustic Beam 2.0



Auto-EQ


Auto-EQ



Configuration

TruePlay


Configuration

S-Force PRO, VerticalSurround Engine, DTS

Virtual:X

CONNECTIVITY

Resolution/HDR 4K / HDR10+ 4K / HDR10+ 4K / HDR10+ 4K / HDR10+ 4K / HDR10+ 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision - 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision,

HLGHDCP - - 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.2 - 2.2 2.2 / 2.3

HDMI Input / Version 1 1 2 2 2 3 / 2.0a - 3 / 2.0a 1 / 2.0aHDMI Output / Version / ARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0a / ARC 1 / 2.1 / eARC 1 / 2.0a / ARC 1 / 2.0a / eARC

HDMI CEC Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes (BRAVIA Sync)Stream ATMOS from TV Apps Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Optical / Coaxial 1 / No 1 / No 1 / No 1 / No 1 / No 1 / 11 (Shared with HDMI

eARC) / -1 / 1 1 / No

Analog / Connection Type - - - - - 1 / 3.5mm - 1 / 3.5mm NoBluetooth Version / Codec / NFC 4.2 / - / - 4.2 / - / - 4.2 / - / - 4.2 / - / - 5.0 / - / - 4.1 / AptX / No - 4.1 / AptX / No 5.0 / AAC / No

USB (Function) Micro-USB (Service) Micro-USB (Service) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) - 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Service)WiFi / Ethernet Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No No / No Yes / Yes No / No No / No

USER EXPERIENCELED Display No No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No

Remote Control Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes

Streaming Service - - - - - NoApple AirPlay 2, Sonos

AppNo No

Multi-Room / Mobile App SmartThings App SmartThings App SmartThings App SmartThings App SmartThings App No / No Yes/Sonos App No / No No / NoVoice Assistant / Control / Smart

HomeAmazon Alexa Amazon Alexa Amazon Alexa Amazon Alexa Amazon Alexa No / No / No


No / No / No No / No / No

DIMENSION & WEIGHT

Soundbar 38.6 x 2.4 x 4.5inch / 7.7lbs 38.6 x 2.4 x 4.5inch / 7.9lbs48.0 x 2.7 x 5.4 inch /

15.7lbs48.5 x 2.7 x 5.4 inch / 15.7

lb48.0 x 2.7 x 5.4 inch/

15.7lbs45.5 x 3.5 x 3.0inch / 7.3lbs

45 x 3.4 x 4.5 inch / 13.78lbs

45.5 x 3.5 x 3.0inch / 7.3lbs 35.1 x 2.6 x 3.9inch / 6.8lbs

Subwoofer8.1 x 13.9 x 11.9 inch /

13.7lbs8.1 x 15.9 x 15.9 inch /

21.6lbs8.3 x 15.9 x 15.9 inch /

21.6lbs8.3 x 15.9 x 15.9 inch /

21.6lbs8.3 x 15.9 x 15.9 inch/

21.6lbs13 x 11 x 20.5inch / 23.4lbs No

9.5 x 12 x 20.5inch / 19.0lbs

-

Surround Speakers No No No 4.9 x 8 x 5.6 inch / 4 lb 4.7 x 8.3 x 5.6 inch / 4.6lbs 5.0 x 5.4 x 8inch / 2.8lbs No 5.0 x 5.4 x 8inch / 2.8lbs -

* Based on Amazon's reviews for Best-Selling Dolby Atmos soundbars above $300 as of 9/12/2021. For accuracy, ratings are only displayed for Soundbars with more than 40 Reviews.** Based on Amazon list price and ratings as of 8/31/21


MODEL

TOP 5 RATED DOLBY ATMOS SOUNDBARS ON AMAZON*

SAMSUNG SOUNDBARS

SONY SOUNDBARS

SONY SONY SONY SONY NAKAMICHI SONOS NAKAMICHI SAMSUNG SONY

HT-A7000 HT-ST5000 HT-Z9F HT-G700SHOCKWAFE ULTRA 9.2

SSEARC


Q950T HT-X8500

PRICE & RATINGPrice* $1,300 $1,498 $898 $598 $1,399 $899 $999 $1,498 $300

Rating* Coming Soon 4.0 4.4 4.3 4.7 4.7 4.6 4.5 4.4Number of Reviews** - 159 222 195 433 166 315 44 171AUDIO DECODERS

DTS

DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


-

DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


Dolby



















AUDIO CONFIGURATION

Surround Effects Simulated Surround Simulated SurroundSimulated Surround

(Virtual Height)Simulated Surround

(Virtual Height)Discrete Surround Simulated Surround Discrete Surround Discrete Surround

Simulated Surround(Virtual Height)


5.1.2 / 9 Drivers 3.1.2 / 7 Drivers 3.1 / 3 Drivers 2.1 / 3 Drivers 9.2.4 / 18 Drivers 5.0.2 / 11 Drivers 7.2.4 / 14 Drivers 9.1.4 / 20 Drivers 2.1 / 4 Drivers


2 / Built-In/ 2" x 3.8" Rectangular.

Optional Add-On1 / Wireless / 7.1" 1 / Wireless / 6.3" 1 / Wireless / 6.5" 2 / Wireless / 10” No (Optional Add-On) 2 / Wireless / 8” 1 / Wireless / 8" No


No (Optional Add-On) No No (Optional Add-On) No 4 / Wired / 2-Way No (Optional Add-On) 2 / Wired / 2-Way 2 / Wireless / 2-Way No

Audio Output 500W 800W 400W 400W 1000W - 800W 546W -

Audio Mode

AutoSound, Cinema, Music, Standard, Immersive Audio

Enhancement

3D Surround, ClearAudio+, Game

Studio, Movie, Sports, Standard Surround

Auto Sound, Theater, Music, Game Studio, News,

Sports, Standard

Auto Sound,Cinema,Music,Stand

ard




DSP OFF

Adaptive Sound Control (ASC), Game Pro,

Standard, Surround Sound expansion


Sports, Standard

Clear Voice / Night Mode / Lip Sync Yes / Yes / No Yes / Yes / No Yes / Yes / No Yes / Yes / No Yes / Yes / Yes Yes / Yes / No Yes / Yes / Yes Yes / No / Yes Yes / Yes / No

Other Audio FeaturesS-Force PRO, Vertical

Surround Engine, Dolby Speaker Virtual

S-Force PRO, DigitalSound Enhancement

Engine HX, S-Master HX Digital amplifier


Engine H, Vertical Surround Engine, Bluetooth

Transmit

S-Force PRO,Vertical Surround Engine,DTS

Virtual:X


Configuration

TruePlay


Configuration


S-Force PRO, Vertical Surround Engine, DTS

Virtual:X

CONNECTIVITY

Resolution/HDR4K / HDR10, Dolby

Vision, HLG4K / HDR10, Dolby

Vision, HLG4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision,

HLG4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision,

HLG4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision - 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10+


HDCP 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.2 - 2.2 2.3 2.2 / 2.3HDMI Input / Version 2 / 2.0a 1 / 2.0a 1 / 2.0a 1 / 2.0a 3 / 2.0a - 3 / 2.0a 2 1 / 2.0a

HDMI Output / Version / ARC 1 / 2.0a / eARC 1 / 2.0a / eARC 1 / 2.0a / eARC 1 / 2.0a / eARC 1 / 2.0a / ARC 1 / 2.1 / eARC 1 / 2.0a / ARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0a / eARCHDMI CEC Yes (BRAVIA Sync) Yes (BRAVIA Sync) Yes (BRAVIA Sync) Yes (BRAVIA Sync) Yes Yes Yes Yes (SIMPLINK) Yes (BRAVIA Sync)

Stream ATMOS from TV Apps/HDMI Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Optical / Coaxial 1 / No 1 / No 1 / No 1 / No 1 / 11 (Shared with HDMI

eARC) / -1 / 1 1 / No 1 / No

Analog / Connection Type 1 / 3.5mm 1 / 3.5mm 1 / 3.5mm No 1 / 3.5mm - 1 / 3.5mm - NoBluetooth Version / Codec / NFC 5.0 / LDAC + AAC / No 4.1 / LDAC / Yes 4.2 / LDAC / No 5.0 / - / No 4.1 / AptX / No - 4.1 / AptX / No 5.0 / - / - 5.0 / AAC / No

USB (Function) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Service) 1 (Music, Service) - 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Service)WiFi / Ethernet Yes / No Yes / Yes Yes / Yes No / No No / No Yes / Yes No / No Yes / No No / No

USER EXPERIENCELED Display Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No

Remote Control Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes

Streaming ServiceSpotify Connect,

ChromecastSpotify Connect,

ChromecastSpotify Connect,

ChromecastNo No Apple AirPlay 2, Sonos App No - No

Multi-Room / Mobile AppNo / Sony Music Center

AppYes / Sony Music Center

AppYes / Sony Music Center

AppNo / No No / No Yes/Sonos App No / No SmartThings App No / No

Voice Assistant / Control /Smart Home Google Home / No / No Google Home / No / No No / No / No No / No / No No / No / NoAmazon Alexa, Google

AssistantNo / No / No Amazon Alexa No / No / No

DIMENSION & WEIGHT

Soundbar51.25 x 3.25 x 5.6in /

19.2lb 46.46 x 3.15 x 5.71 inch

/ 18.08lbs39.3 × 2.6 × 4 inch / 6.13lbs

38.58 x 2.52 x 4.25 inch / 7.12lbs

45.5 x 3.5 x 3.0inch / 7.3lbs45.0 x 3.4 x 4.5 inch /

13.78lbs45.5 x 3.5 x 3.0inch / 7.3lbs

48.0 x 2.7 x 5.4 inch/ 15.7lbs

35.1 x 2.6 x 3.9inch / 6.8lbs

Subwoofer -9.76 x 15.87 x 16.77

inch/ 31.09lbs7.5 x 15.1 x 15.2inch /

17.14lbs7.6 x 15.2 x 16 inch /

16.9lbs13 x 11 x 20.5inch / 23.4lbs No 9.5 x 12 x 20.5inch / 19.0lbs

8.3 x 15.9 x 15.9 inch/ 21.6lbs

-

Surround Speakers - - - - 5.0 x 5.4 x 8inch / 2.8lbs No 5.0 x 5.4 x 8inch / 2.8lbs 4.7 x 8.3 x 5.6 inch / 4.6lbs -

* Based on Amazon's reviews for Best-Selling Dolby Atmos soundbars above $300 as of 9/12/2021. For accuracy, ratings are only displayed for Soundbars with more than 40 Reviews.

** Based on Amazon list price and ratings as of 8/31/21



MODEL

SONY SOUNDBARS

VIZIO SOUNDBARS

VIZIO Vizio VIZIO NAKAMICHI SONOS NAKAMICHI SAMSUNG SONY

Elevate M51ax-J6 SB3651NS-H6SHOCKWAFE ULTRA 9.2

SSEARC


Q950T HT-X8500

PRICE & RATINGPrice** $999 $350 $250 $1,399 $899 $999 $1,498 $300

Rating** 4.3 NA 4.3 4.7 4.7 4.6 4.5 4.4Number of Reviews** 71 20 212 433 166 315 44 171AUDIO DECODERS

DTS

DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA



DTS:XDTS-HD MA


-

DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


Dolby





Dolby Digital (Dolby Audio)











AUDIO CONFIGURATION

Surround Effects Discrete Surround Discrete Surround Discrete Surround Discrete Surround Simulated Surround Discrete Surround Discrete SurroundSimulated Surround


Drivers5.1.4 / 18 Drivers 5.1 / 9 Speakers 5.1 / 5 Drivers 9.2.4 / 18 Drivers 5.0.2 / 11 Drivers 7.2.4 / 14 Drivers 9.1.4 / 20 Drivers 2.1 / 4 Drivers


1 / Wireless / 8" 1 / Wireless / 5" 1 / Wireless / 5" 2 / Wireless / 10” No (Optional Add-On) 2 / Wireless / 8” 1 / Wireless / 8" No


2 / Wireless / 2-Way 2 / Wired 2 / Wired 4 / Wired / 2-Way No (Optional Add-On) 2 / Wired / 2-Way 2 / Wireless / 2-Way No

Power 340W Undisclosed 115W 1000W - 800W 546W -

Audio Mode Music, Movie, Direct, Game Music, Movie, Direct, GameDTS Virtual X, Music,

Movie, Direct




DSP OFF




Sports, Standard

Clear Voice / Night Mode / Lip Sync No / Yes / No No / Yes / No No / Yes / No Yes / Yes / Yes Yes / Yes / No Yes / Yes / Yes Yes / No / Yes Yes / Yes / No

Other Audio FeaturesDTS Virtual:X, DTS

TruVolumeDTS Virtual:X, DTS

TruVolumeDTS Virtual:X, DTS Digital Surround, DTS TruVolume


Configuration

TruePlay


Configuration



Virtual:X

CONNECTIVITY

Resolution/HDR 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision - 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10+4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision,

HLGHDCP 2.3 2.3 - 2.2 - 2.2 2.3 2.2 / 2.3

HDMI Input / Version 2 1 1 / - 3 / 2.0a - 3 / 2.0a 2 1 / 2.0aHDMI Output / Version / ARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 1.4 / ARC 1 / 2.0a / ARC 1 / 2.1 / eARC 1 / 2.0a / ARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0a / eARC

HDMI CEC Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes (SIMPLINK) Yes (BRAVIA Sync)Stream ATMOS from TV Apps Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Optical / Coaxial 1 / No 1 / No 1 / 1 1 / 11 (Shared with HDMI

eARC) / -1 / 1 1 / No 1 / No

Analog / Connection Type 2 / 3.5mm 2 / 3.5mm 1 / 3.5mm 1 / 3.5mm - 1 / 3.5mm - NoBluetooth Version / Codec / NFC 5.0 / SBC / No 5.0 / TBD / TBD Unknown / - / No 4.1 / AptX / No - 4.1 / AptX / No 5.0 / - / - 5.0 / AAC / No

USB (Function) 1(Music, Service) 1(Music, Service) 1 (Music) 1 (Music, Service) - 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Service)WiFi / Ethernet Yes / No No / No No / No No / No Yes / Yes No / No Yes / No No / No

USER EXPERIENCELED Display Yes (on Remote) Yes (on Remote) Yes (on Remote) Yes Yes Yes Yes No

Remote Control Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes

Streaming Service Chromecast No No No Apple AirPlay 2, Sonos App No - No

Multi-Room / Mobile App No / Yes No / No No / No No / No Yes/Sonos App No / No SmartThings App No / No

Voice Assistant / Control /Smart Home"Using External Devices" /

No / No"Using External Devices" /

No / NoNo / No / No No / No / No


No / No / No Amazon Alexa No / No / No

DIMENSION & WEIGHT

Soundbar48.0 x 6.5 x 2.6 inch /

12.4lbs36.0 x 2.2 x 3.5 inch /

5.53lbs36 x 2.24 x 3.18 inch/

4.67 Lbs45.5 x 3.5 x 3.0inch / 7.3lbs

45.0 x 3.4 x 4.5 inch / 13.78lbs

45.5 x 3.5 x 3.0inch / 7.3lbs48.0 x 2.7 x 5.4 inch/

15.7lbs35.1 x 2.6 x 3.9inch / 6.8lbs


25.7 lbs8.3 x 9.9 x 8.3 inch

7.6 lbs8.3 x 9.9 x 8.3 inch / 7.6lbs 13 x 11 x 20.5inch / 23.4lbs No

9.5 x 12 x 20.5inch / 19.0lbs

8.3 x 15.9 x 15.9 inch/ 21.6lbs

-

Surround Speakers2.8 x 5.9 x 3.7 inch /

2.28lbs5.7 x 2.24 x 3.54 inch /

1.0 lbs4.72 x 2.24 x 3.19 inch /

1.94lbs5.0 x 5.4 x 8inch / 2.8lbs No 5.0 x 5.4 x 8inch / 2.8lbs 4.7 x 8.3 x 5.6 inch / 4.6lbs -



^ Soundbar is not available on Amazon.PAGE 22 SOUNDBARS COMPARISON


MODEL

VIZIO SOUNDBARS

LG SOUNDBARS

LG LG LG LG NAKAMICHI SONOS NAKAMICHI SAMSUNG SONY

SP11RA SN11RG SP9YA SP8YASHOCKWAFE ULTRA 9.2

SSEARC


Q950T HT-X8500

PRICE & RATINGPrice** TBA 1696.99 999.99 799.99 $1,399 $899 $999 $1,498 $300

Rating** Coming Soon NA NA NA 4.7 4.7 4.6 4.5 4.4Number of Reviews** - 8 4 28 433 166 315 44 171AUDIO DECODERS

DTS

DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


-

DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


Dolby



















AUDIO CONFIGURATION

Surround Effects Discrete Surround Discrete Surround Simulated Surround Simulated Surround Discrete Surround Simulated Surround Discrete Surround Discrete SurroundSimulated Surround


Drivers7.1.4 / 12 Drivers 7.1.4 / 12 Drivers 5.1.2 / 8 Drivers 3.1.2 / 6 Drivers 9.2.4 / 18 Drivers 5.0.2 / 11 Drivers 7.2.4 / 14 Drivers 9.1.4 / 20 Drivers 2.1 / 4 Drivers


1 / Wireless / 7" 1 / Wireless / 7" 1 / Wireless / 7" 1 / Wireless / 7" 2 / Wireless / 10” No (Optional Add-On) 2 / Wireless / 8” 1 / Wireless / 8" No


2 / Wireless 2 / Wireless No (Optional Add-On) No (Optional Add-On) 4 / Wired / 2-Way No (Optional Add-On) 2 / Wired / 2-Way 2 / Wireless / 2-Way No

Audio Output 770W 770W 520W 440W 1000W - 800W 546W -

Audio ModeAdaptive Sound Control ("AI Sound Pro"), Bass Blast +, Movie, Music







DSP OFF




Sports, Standard

Clear Voice / Night Mode / Lip Sync No / Yes / No No / Yes / No No / Yes / No No / Yes / No Yes / Yes / Yes Yes / Yes / No Yes / Yes / Yes Yes / No / Yes Yes / Yes / No

Other Audio FeaturesMerdian Technology, AI

Room CalibrationMerdian Technology, AI



Room Calibration


Configuration

TruePlay


Configuration



Virtual:X

CONNECTIVITY

Resolution/HDR 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision - 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10+4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision,

HLGHDCP 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.3 2.2 - 2.2 2.3 2.2 / 2.3

HDMI Input / Version 2 / 2.0 2 / 2.0 2 / 2.0 1 / 2.0 3 / 2.0a - 3 / 2.0a 2 1 / 2.0aHDMI Output / Version / ARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0a / ARC 1 / 2.1 / eARC 1 / 2.0a / ARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0a / eARC

HDMI CEC Yes (SIMPLINK) Yes (SIMPLINK) Yes (SIMPLINK) Yes (SIMPLINK) Yes Yes Yes Yes (SIMPLINK) Yes (BRAVIA Sync)Stream ATMOS from TV Apps Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes


eARC) / -1 / 1 1 / No 1 / No

Analog / Connection Type - - - - 1 / 3.5mm - 1 / 3.5mm - NoBluetooth Version / Codec / NFC 5.0 / SBC, AAC / - 5.0 / SBC / - 5.0 / SBC, AAC / - 5.0 / SBC, AAC / - 4.1 / AptX / No - 4.1 / AptX / No 5.0 / - / - 5.0 / AAC / No

USB (Function) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) - 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Service)WiFi / Ethernet Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No Yes / No No / No Yes / Yes No / No Yes / No No / No

USER EXPERIENCELED Display Yes (LCD) Yes (LCD) Yes (LCD) Yes (LCD) Yes Yes Yes Yes No


Streaming Service Chromecast Chromecast Chromecast Chromecast No Apple AirPlay 2, Sonos App No - No

Multi-Room / Mobile App Yes / Yes Yes / Yes Yes / Yes Yes / Yes No / No Yes/Sonos App No / No SmartThings App No / No

Voice Assistant / Control /Smart HomeAmazon Alexa, Google

AssistantGoogle Assistant / LG

ThinQAmazon Alexa, Google

AssistantGoogle Assistant / LG

ThinQNo / No / No


No / No / No Amazon Alexa No / No / No

DIMENSION & WEIGHT

Soundbar56.8 x 2.5 x 5.8inch /

15.9lbs56.8 x 2.5 x 5.8inch /

15.9lbs48.0 x 2.2 x 5.7inch /

13.9lbs41.7 x 2.2 x 4.7inch / 9.7lbs 45.5 x 3.5 x 3.0inch / 7.3lbs

45.0 x 3.4 x 4.5 inch / 13.78lbs

45.5 x 3.5 x 3.0inch / 7.3lbs48.0 x 2.7 x 5.4 inch/

15.7lbs35.1 x 2.6 x 3.9inch / 6.8lbs

Subwoofer8.3 x 15.4 x 12.3inch /

17.2lbs8.7 x 15.4 x 12.3inch /

17.2lbs8.7 x 15.4 x 12.3inch /

17.2lbs8.7 x 15.4 x 12.3inch /

17.2lbs13 x 11 x 20.5inch / 23.4lbs No 9.5 x 12 x 20.5inch / 19.0lbs

8.3 x 15.9 x 15.9 inch/ 21.6lbs

-

Surround Speakers 5.1 x 8.2 x 7.5inch / 5.7lbs 5.1 x 8.2 x 7.5inch / 5.8lbs No No 5.0 x 5.4 x 8inch / 2.8lbs No 5.0 x 5.4 x 8inch / 2.8lbs 4.7 x 8.3 x 5.6 inch / 4.6lbs -




MODEL


LG SOUNDBARS

JBL JBL NAKAMICHI SONOS NAKAMICHI SAMSUNG SONY

Bar 9.1 Bar 5.1SHOCKWAFE ULTRA 9.2

SSEARC


Q950T HT-X8500

PRICE & RATINGPrice** $999 $500 $1,399 $899 $999 $1,498 $300

Rating** 4.4 4.5 4.7 4.7 4.6 4.5 4.4Number of Reviews** 174 1270 433 166 315 44 171AUDIO DECODERS

DTS

DTS:XDTS-HD MA



DTS:XDTS-HD MA


-

DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


Dolby



Dolby Digital











AUDIO CONFIGURATION

Surround Effects Discrete Surround Discrete Surround Discrete Surround Simulated Surround Discrete Surround Discrete SurroundSimulated Surround


Drivers5.1.4 / 14 Drivers 5.1 / 12 Speakers 9.2.4 / 18 Drivers 5.0.2 / 11 Drivers 7.2.4 / 14 Drivers 9.1.4 / 20 Drivers 2.1 / 4 Drivers


1 / Wireless / 10" 1 / Wireless / 10" 2 / Wireless / 10” No (Optional Add-On) 2 / Wireless / 8” 1 / Wireless / 8" No


2 / Wireless / 2-Way 2 / Wired / 1-Way 4 / Wired / 2-Way No (Optional Add-On) 2 / Wired / 2-Way 2 / Wireless / 2-Way No

Power 820w 510w 1000W - 800W 546W -

Audio ModeStandard, Music, Movie,

NightStandard, Music, Movie,

Voice, Sport




DSP OFF




Sports, Standard

Clear Voice / Night Mode / Lip Sync No / Yes / No Yes / Yes / No Yes / Yes / Yes Yes / Yes / No Yes / Yes / Yes Yes / No / Yes Yes / Yes / No

Other Audio Features Room Calibration Room Calibration


Configuration

TruePlay


Configuration



Virtual:X

CONNECTIVITY

Resolution/HDR 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision - 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10+4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision,

HLGHDCP 2.3 2.3 2.2 - 2.2 2.3 2.2 / 2.3

HDMI Input / Version 1 - 3 / 2.0a - 3 / 2.0a 2 1 / 2.0aHDMI Output / Version / ARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 3 / 1.4 / ARC 1 / 2.0a / ARC 1 / 2.1 / eARC 1 / 2.0a / ARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0a / eARC

HDMI CEC Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes (SIMPLINK) Yes (BRAVIA Sync)Stream ATMOS from TV Apps Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Optical / Coaxial 1 / No 1 / No 1 / 11 (Shared with HDMI

eARC) / -1 / 1 1 / No 1 / No

Analog / Connection Type 1 / 3.5mm 1 / 3.5mm 1 / 3.5mm - 1 / 3.5mm - NoBluetooth Version / Codec / NFC 4.2 / A2DP / No 4.2 / A2DP \/ TBD 4.1 / AptX / No - 4.1 / AptX / No 5.0 / - / - 5.0 / AAC / No

USB (Function) 1(Music, Service) 1(Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) - 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Service)WiFi / Ethernet Yes / No No / No No / No Yes / Yes No / No Yes / No No / No

USER EXPERIENCELED Display Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No

Remote Control Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes

Streaming Service Airplay / Chromecast No No Apple AirPlay 2, Sonos App No - No

Multi-Room / Mobile App No / No No / No No / No Yes/Sonos App No / No SmartThings App No / No

Voice Assistant / Control /Smart Home Google Home / No / No No / No / No No / No / NoAmazon Alexa, Google


DIMENSION & WEIGHT

Soundbar 34.8 x 2.4 x 4.7 inch / 8lbs 45 x 2.3 x 3.7 inch / 8.6lbs 45.5 x 3.5 x 3.0inch / 7.3lbs45.0 x 3.4 x 4.5 inch /

13.78lbs45.5 x 3.5 x 3.0inch / 7.3lbs

48.0 x 2.7 x 5.4 inch/ 15.7lbs

35.1 x 2.6 x 3.9inch / 6.8lbs


24.5 lbs16 x 12 x 12 inch / 28.7lbs 13 x 11 x 20.5inch / 23.4lbs No

9.5 x 12 x 20.5inch / 19.0lbs

8.3 x 15.9 x 15.9 inch/ 21.6lbs

-

Surround Speakers 6.8 x 2.4 x 4.7 inch / 1.6lbs 6.5 x 2.3 x 3.7 inch / 1.3lbs 5.0 x 5.4 x 8inch / 2.8lbs No 5.0 x 5.4 x 8inch / 2.8lbs 4.7 x 8.3 x 5.6 inch / 4.6lbs -





MODEL

JBL SOUNDBARS

JBL SOUNDBARS

Klipsch Soundbars

KLIPSCH KLIPSCH KLIPSCH KLIPSCH NAKAMICHI SONOS NAKAMICHI SAMSUNG SONY

Cinema 400 Cinema 600 Cinema 800 Cinema 1200SHOCKWAFE ULTRA 9.2

SSEARC


Q950T HT-X8500

PRICE & RATINGPrice** $299 $499 $969 $1,899 $1,399 $899 $999 $1,498 $300

Rating** 4.4 4.6 NA Coming Soon 4.7 4.7 4.6 4.5 4.4Number of Reviews** 289 439 8 - 433 166 315 44 171AUDIO DECODERS

DTS - - - -

DTS:XDTS-HD MA


-

DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


Dolby Dolby Digital Dolby Digital















AUDIO CONFIGURATION

Surround Effects Simulated Surround Simulated Surround Simulated Surround Simulated Surround Discrete Surround Simulated Surround Discrete Surround Discrete SurroundSimulated Surround


Drivers2.1 / 5 Drivers 3.1 / 8 Drivers 3.1 / 8 Drivers 5.1.4 / 16 Drivers 9.2.4 / 18 Drivers 5.0.2 / 11 Drivers 7.2.4 / 14 Drivers 9.1.4 / 20 Drivers 2.1 / 4 Drivers


1 / Wireless / 8" 1 / Wireless / 10" 1 / Wireless / 10" 1 / Wireless / 12" 2 / Wireless / 10” No (Optional Add-On) 2 / Wireless / 8” 1 / Wireless / 8" No


No No (Optional Add-on) No (Optional Add-On) 2 / Wireless 4 / Wired / 2-Way No (Optional Add-On) 2 / Wired / 2-Way 2 / Wireless / 2-Way No

Power 400W / 99dB 600W / 103dB 800W / 107dB 1200W / 109dB 1000W - 800W 546W -

Audio Mode Virtual Surround Mode Virtual Surround Mode Virtual Surround Mode Virtual Surround ModeMovie, Music, Sports,


Speech EnhancementMovie, Music, Sports,





Sports, Standard

Clear Voice / Night Mode / Lip Sync Yes / Yes / No Yes / Yes / No Yes / Yes / No Yes / Yes / No Yes / Yes / Yes Yes / Yes / No Yes / Yes / Yes Yes / No / Yes Yes / Yes / No

Other Audio Features Subwooofer (LFE) Output Subwooofer (LFE) Output Subwooofer (LFE) Output Subwooofer (LFE) Output


Configuration

TruePlay


Configuration



Virtual:X

CONNECTIVITY

Resolution/HDR No No 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision - 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10+4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision,

HLGHDCP - - 2.3 2.3 2.2 - 2.2 2.3 2.2 / 2.3

HDMI Input / Version No No 2 / 2.1 2 / 2.1 3 / 2.0a - 3 / 2.0a 2 1 / 2.0aHDMI Output / Version / ARC 1 / 1.4 1 / 1.4 1 / 2.1 / eARC 1 / 2.1 / eARC 1 / 2.0a / ARC 1 / 2.1 / eARC 1 / 2.0a / ARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0a / eARC

HDMI CEC Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes (SIMPLINK) Yes (BRAVIA Sync)Stream ATMOS from TV Apps No No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes


eARC) / -1 / 1 1 / No 1 / No

Analog / Connection Type 1 / 3.5mm 1 / 3.5mm 1 / 3.5mm 1 / 3.5mm 1 / 3.5mm - 1 / 3.5mm - NoBluetooth Version / Codec / NFC Yes / SBC / No Yes / SBC / No Yes Yes 4.1 / AptX / No - 4.1 / AptX / No 5.0 / - / - 5.0 / AAC / No

USB (Function) No No 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) - 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Service)WiFi / Ethernet No / No No / No Yes / Yes Yes / Yes No / No Yes / Yes No / No Yes / No No / No

USER EXPERIENCELED Display No No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No


Streaming Service No NoGoogle Chromecast,

Amazon AlexaGoogle Chromecast,

Amazon AlexaNo

Apple AirPlay 2, Sonos App

No - No

Multi-Room / Mobile App No / No No / Yes No / Yes No / Yes No / No Yes/Sonos App No / No SmartThings App No / No

Voice Assistant / Control /Smart Home No / No / No No / No / No - / Google Assistant / - - / Google Assistant / - No / No / NoAmazon Alexa, Google


DIMENSION & WEIGHT

Soundbar39.9 x 2.9 x 3.4inch /

Undisclosed45 x 2.8 x 3.4 inch /

Undisclosed48 x 2.9 x 3.4 inch / 22 lbs

54 x 3 x 6.2 inch / Undisclosed

45.5 x 3.5 x 3.0inch / 7.3lbs45.0 x 3.4 x 4.5 inch /

13.78lbs45.5 x 3.5 x 3.0inch / 7.3lbs

48.0 x 2.7 x 5.4 inch/ 15.7lbs

35.1 x 2.6 x 3.9inch / 6.8lbs

Subwoofer11.9 x 16.1 x 16.1inch /

Undisclosed14.1 x 18.5 x 14.5 inch /

Undisclosed14.5 x 18.5 x 14.5 inch/

Undisclosed15.6 x 20.3 x 15.9 inch /

Undisclosed13 x 11 x 20.5inch / 23.4lbs No

9.5 x 12 x 20.5inch / 19.0lbs

8.3 x 15.9 x 15.9 inch/ 21.6lbs

-

Surround Speakers No No (Optional) No (Optional) Undisclosed 5.0 x 5.4 x 8inch / 2.8lbs No 5.0 x 5.4 x 8inch / 2.8lbs 4.7 x 8.3 x 5.6 inch / 4.6lbs -




MODEL


KLIPSCH SOUNDBARS

NAKAMICHI NAKAMICHI SONOS SAMSUNG SONY NAKAMICHISHOCKWAFE ULTRA 9.2

SSESHOCKWAFE ELITE 7.2

SSEARC Q950T HT-X8500

SHOCKWAFE PRO 7.1 SSE

PRICE & RATINGPrice** $1,399 $999 $899 $1,498 $300 $749

Rating** 4.7 4.6 4.7 4.5 4.4 4.5Number of Reviews** 433 315 166 44 171 126AUDIO DECODERS

DTS

DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


-

DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


DTS:XDTS-HD MA


Dolby













AUDIO CONFIGURATION

Surround Effects Discrete Surround Discrete Surround Simulated Surround Discrete SurroundSimulated Surround

(Virtual Height)Discrete Surround


9.2.4 / 18 Drivers 7.2.4 / 14 Drivers 5.0.2 / 11 Drivers 9.1.4 / 20 Drivers 2.1 / 4 Drivers 7.1.4 / 13 Drivers


2 / Wireless / 10” 2 / Wireless / 8” No (Optional Add-On) 1 / Wireless / 8" No 1 / Wireless / 8”


4 / Wired / 2-Way 2 / Wired / 2-Way No (Optional Add-On) 2 / Wireless / 2-Way No 2 / Wired / 2-Way

Power 1000W 800W - 546W - 600W

Audio ModeMovie, Music, Sports,







Sports, Standard


DSP OFF

Clear Voice / Night Mode / Lip Sync Yes / Yes / Yes Yes / Yes / Yes Yes / Yes / No Yes / No / Yes Yes / Yes / No Yes / Yes / Yes



Configuration


Configuration

TruePlayAcoustic Beam 2.0



Virtual:X


ConfigurationCONNECTIVITY

Resolution/HDR 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision 4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision - 4K / HDR10+4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision,

HLG4K / HDR10, Dolby Vision

HDCP 2.2 2.2 - 2.3 2.2 / 2.3 2.2HDMI Input / Version 3 / 2.0a 3 / 2.0a - 2 1 / 2.0a 3 / 2.0a

HDMI Output / Version / ARC 1 / 2.0a / ARC 1 / 2.0a / ARC 1 / 2.1 / eARC 1 / 2.0 / eARC 1 / 2.0a / eARC 1 / 2.0a / ARCHDMI CEC Yes Yes Yes Yes (SIMPLINK) Yes (BRAVIA Sync) Yes

Stream ATMOS from TV Apps Yes (ARC) Yes (ARC) Yes Yes Yes (eARC) Yes (eARC)

Optical / Coaxial 1 / 1 1 / 11 (Shared with HDMI

eARC) / -1 / No 1 / No 1 / 1

Analog / Connection Type 1 / 3.5mm 1 / 3.5mm - - No 1 / 3.5mmBluetooth Version / Codec / NFC 4.1 / AptX / No 4.1 / AptX / No - 5.0 / - / - 5.0 / AAC / No 4.1 / AptX / No

USB (Function) 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Music, Service) - 1 (Music, Service) 1 (Service) 1 (Music, Service)WiFi / Ethernet No / No No / No Yes / Yes Yes / No No / No No / No

USER EXPERIENCELED Display Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes

Remote Control Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes

Streaming Service No No Apple AirPlay 2, Sonos App - No No

Multi-Room / Mobile App No / No No / No Yes/Sonos App SmartThings App No / No No / No

Voice Assistant / Control /Smart Home No / No / No No / No / NoAmazon Alexa, Google

AssistantAmazon Alexa No / No / No No / No / No

DIMENSION & WEIGHT

Soundbar 45.5 x 3.5 x 3.0inch / 7.3lbs 45.5 x 3.5 x 3.0inch / 7.3lbs45.0 x 3.4 x 4.5 inch /

13.78lbs48.0 x 2.7 x 5.4 inch/

15.7lbs35.1 x 2.6 x 3.9inch / 6.8lbs 45.5 x 3.3 x 3.0inch / 7.3lbs

Subwoofer 13 x 11 x 20.5inch / 23.4lbs 9.5 x 12 x 20.5inch / 19.0lbs No8.3 x 15.9 x 15.9 inch/

21.6lbs- 9.5 x 12 x 20.5inch / 19lbs

Surround Speakers 5.0 x 5.4 x 8inch / 2.8lbs 5.0 x 5.4 x 8inch / 2.8lbs No 4.7 x 8.3 x 5.6 inch / 4.6lbs - 5.0 x 5.4 x 8inch / 2.8lbs




NAKAMICHI SOUNDBARS

MODEL

TOP RATED DOLBY ATMOS SOUNDBARS ON AMAZON*

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All product images, lifestyle images, brand names, brand logos, model numbers and technology logos in this guide belong to their re-spective copyright holders. Dolby, Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Audio, and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Labora-tories. DTS, the Symbol, DTS in combination with the Symbol, DTS:X and the DTS:X logo are registered trademarks of DTS, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. The Bluetooth word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. aptX is a trademark of Qualcomm Technologies International, Ltd., registered in the United States and other countries. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

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