A high-quality soundbar can make a world of difference in enhancing the audio from your TV, providing a surround sound experience that built-in speakers simply can‘t match. As an industry leader in audio equipment, Sony makes some of the top-rated soundbars on the market. This guide reviews the 6 best Sony TV soundbars available in 2023 based on performance, features and value.
Why Choose a Sony Soundbar?
Sony is renowned for audio innovation and quality engineering. Their soundbars leverage exclusive audio technologies to deliver an immersive listening experience. Key benefits of Sony soundbars include:
Superior sound quality: Advanced sound processing reproduces audio with exceptional clarity across the frequency range. Many models support object-based surround formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for multilayered sound.
Deep, punchy bass: Multiple built-in subwoofers or dedicated wireless subwoofers accentuate low frequencies for impactful bass without distortion.
Smart connectivity: Stream music wirelessly over Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Sony soundbars integrate with voice assistants and smart home ecosystems.
Sleek, minimalist aesthetic: Unobtrusive, low-profile designs seamlessly complement modern TVs with matte black or glass finishes. Wall-mountable.
Intuitive setup: Easy plug-and-play connectivity with one-cable HDMI hookup. Sound optimization features auto-tune audio to room acoustics.
Great value: Spanning a range of price points, Sony soundbars deliver premium features and performance per dollar.
From expansive home theater sound to compact starter models, Sony caters to diverse budgets and needs. Read on for reviews of their top soundbar models.
Best Overall: Sony HT-A7000
The feature-packed Sony HT-A7000 is a top-of-the-line soundbar home theater system earning rave reviews for room-filling audio and bass.
Key Features
- 7.1.2-channel Dolby Atmos/DTS:X sound
- Vertical surround engine and S-Force Pro for 3D audio effect
- Built-in dual subwoofers + wireless subwoofer
- 4K/120Hz and 8K passthrough
- Works with Alexa & Google Assistant
With 7.1.2 configuration, the HT-A7000 bathes you in multi-dimensional sound thanks to upfiring drivers that bounce audio off ceilings to create the sensation of overhead effects. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoding infuses cinematic immersion.
Dual subwoofers deliver earth-shaking bass, while a wireless sub placed anywhere amplifies low-end punch. The sheer power and clarity across frequencies make games and movies come alive.
It handles the latest visual formats too – pass ultra high-def video from media players to your TV via HDMI. Smart assistants handle voice commands, or cast content directly to the soundbar over Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
For premium home theater thrills, the HT-A7000 is Sony‘s flagship triumph.
Dolby Atmos & DTS:X
7.1.2 surround sound
Deep bass response
Slick modern design
HDMI 2.1 ports
Expensive
Setup can be tricky
Bottom Line: An incredibly immersive Dolby Atmos/DTS:X audio powerhouse ideal for home theater enthusiasts.
Best Mid-Range: Sony HT-G700
The Sony HT-G700 packs mighty audio performance into a simple soundbar-sub combo for an engrossing cinematic experience without complexity or cost.
Key Features
- 3.1-channel sound
- Vertical surround engine
- Wireless subwoofer
- Dolby Atmos & DTS:X support
- HDMI eARC
With dedicated upfiring drivers, Sony‘s proprietary Vertical Surround Engine and Dolby Atmos processing, the HT-G700 emulates immersive effects of object-based audio tracks. It analyzes incoming signals and optimizesplayback dynamically.
While the soundbar itself outputs direct and reflected sound, the accompanied wireless subwoofer delivers floor-shaking bass. Together they fill rooms with exceptional clarity and depth befitting far pricier setups.
The simplicity of a 3.1 system belies its expansive, enveloping sound. At under $300, the HT-G700 punches way above its weight. It‘s a fantastic gateway to cinematic audio sans complexity.
- Huge immersive sound
- Deep punchy bass
- Great value
- No rears for true surround
Bottom Line: This mid-range model combines engrossing Dolby Atmos sonics with mighty bass in a simple soundbar-sub bundle perfect for smaller spaces.
Best Budget: Sony HT-S350
Shopping on a tighter budget? The compact Sony HT-S350 2.1-channel soundbar packs awesome audio quality into an affordable, minimalist form factor.
Key Features
- 320W total output
- Wireless subwoofer included
- S-Force Pro virtual surround sound
- Bluetooth music streaming
- Voice enhancement mode
With S-Force Pro processing for virtual surround effects, a wireless subwoofer supplying rich bass vibrations, and dedicated voice channel for maximum vocal clarity, this entry-level Sony rig makes major sonic strides over built-in TV audio.
It may lack the 3D spatial sound of pricier models but you‘d be floored by the HT-S350‘s audio chops given its petite dimensions and cost under $150. Seven sound modes adapt playback to suit movies, music, news and gaming.
- Terrific sound for the size
- Good wireless subwoofer
- Affordable price point
- Music streaming over Bluetooth
Bottom Line: Sony‘s ultra-budget friendly 2.1-channel soundbar packs thunderous bass and virtualized spaciousness worth multiples of its modest price.
Best Premium: Sony HT-A5000
Serious home cinema devotees seeking reference-grade sound will be wowed by the premium 5.1.2-channel Sony HT-A5000 and its wireless subwoofer sidekick.
Key Features
- 5.1.2 channels with Dolby Atmos & DTS:X decoding
- Vertical surround engine
- Acoustic beam tweeters for angled sound reflection
- 8K video passthrough
To electrifying effect, seven precision drivers pump out richly layered surround sound complemented by two upfiring speakers bouncing audio off walls for fully immersive Dolby Atmos and DTS:X replay.
The wireless subwoofer pounds with earth-shaking force down to 20Hz for bone-rattling bass crescendos. Sony‘s 360 Spatial Sound Mapping adapts playback to room conditions for optimized acoustics anywhere.
From floor-rumbling explosions to crisp dialogue to soaring soundtracks, the HT-A5000 soundbar home theater system is a superb vehicle for cinema-grade thrills. For well-heeled buyers, its splurge-worthy upgrade over Sony‘s midrange models.
Reference-level realistic sound
Built-in surround decoding
Booming bass response
8K passthrough
Pricey for a soundbar
External subwoofer requires placement
Bottom Line: This top-tier premium Sony soundbar checks all boxes for audio geeks seeking an immersive Dolby Atmos/DTS:X listening experience. Only the lofty price gives pause.
Best Value: Sony HT-A3000
Slotting in below premium price points, the HT-A3000 keeps costs down while serving up scale-defying Dolby Atmos sound from a cleanly designed 3.1-channel Sony soundbar.
Key Features
- 3.1 channels with Dolby Atmos
- Vertical surround engine
- Built-in dual subwoofers
- Sound mode optimization
- Quick setup
Though lacking separate satellites for true surround sound, integrated upfiring drivers create illusion of height for immersive object-based Dolby Atmos movies and music. Sony‘s audio processing expands dimensionality further.
Built-in dual subwoofers elicit deep rumbles on bass-heavy tracks sans external components while center positioning ensures clear dialogue. It belies its cost with expansive room-filling audio belying the modest price and setup demands.
The HT-A3000 shatters expectations to emerge an outstanding value prospect. While falling short of pricier models on outright performance, its laudable spatial sonics help justify the outlay for music and cinema lovers.
- Huge panoramic sound
*Integrated subwoofers - Dolby Atmos decoding
- No HDMI passthrough
- No satellite rears
Bottom Line: This value-packed Sony Dolby Atmos soundbar defies its price with outstanding audio and bass that immerses listeners, although rear channels would complete the surround experience.
Best Built-In Subwoofer: Sony HT-X8500
Sony‘s 2.1-channel HT-X8500 soundbar literally embodies thumping bass courtesy of dual built-in subwoofers joining centralized speakers in a seamless front soundstage.
Key Features
- 7.1.2-channel virtual surround sound
- Built-in dual subwoofers
- Dolby Atmos & DTS:X decoding
- Bluetooth & Wi-Fi music streaming
- HDMI, optical, analog & USB inputs
With 300W total peak power driving an integrated trifecta of components, this beefy one-piece solution emits tremendously dynamic sound matched by punchy low-end heft. Built-in dual subwoofers flank outward-angled edge speakers to create an enveloping sonic panorama.
Dolby Atmos height virtualization and DTS:X technologies expand the soundstage for movies. The HT-X8500 adapts playback to room conditions using built-in mics and auto-calibration smarts.
Wall-mountable with included hardware, it makes a stylish audio upgrade for living rooms via one-cable HDMI hookup. For a fuss-free all-in-one bar, it ticks every box at a reasonable price.
- Huge immersive audio
- Seamless single-unit design
- THX-certified performance
- Lacks separate sub for max bass
Bottom Line: This THX-certified 2.1 soundbar combines immense Dolby Atmos spatial sound with built-in subwoofers in a plug-and-play package.
How to Choose the Best Sony Soundbar
Sound Quality Needs
First decide whether you simply want improved audio over poor TV speakers or truly immersive cinema-grade surround sound. Basic 2.1-channel Sony bars offer louder, clearer sound for under $200. Step-up 3.1 models with wireless subs and virtual Dolby Atmos start around $250. Higher-end picks add more channels, bass and spatial sound formats for $500+.
Room Size
Soundbars tuned for larger spaces won‘t fit smaller rooms. Compact models may lack power to fill big home theater areas. Choose adequate wattage and channels to sufficiently pressurize the listening environment. Subs are great for capacious areas.
Movie & Music Needs
Movie buffs benefit from Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoding for immersive effects on supported films. Music lovers may prefer Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming from smartphones. Note video passthrough capabilities if hooking up media streamers.
Budget
Sony soundbars range from under $150 to over $1000. More money buys better build quality, audio components and decoding support. Consider what level of performance you expect given budget ceilings before you shop.
Soundbar vs Full Home Theater System
Basic soundbars offer an affordable one-box upgrade over TV audio. Full-blown systems with A/V receivers, multiple speakers and sub(s) build pricier cinema sanctuaries. There are good Sony options at every level. Choose an appropriate path for your goals and room layout.
The Benefits of Using a Sony Soundbar
Investing in a quality Sony soundbar pays dividends whether you‘re catching up on a Netflix series or blasting tunes from Spotify. Even entry-level Sony models markedly improve TV audio for clearer voices with expanded dynamics far beyond flat built-in speakers.
Midrange picks really kick immersion into high gear – suddenly you‘re enveloped in three-dimensional Dolby Atmos spatial sound as films come alive with added breadth and realism unmatched by basic TV hardware. The sensation of sonic space from multiple directions makes it easier for your brain to suspend disbelief.
Higher-end options build on those advances with wider dispersion, more accurate localization and booming bass for a truly cinematic spectacle. Your favorite movies feel more impactful while music gains newfound vibrancy from components engineered for lossless fidelity within sleek, streamlined frames.
FAQ
Do Sony soundbars work better with Sony TV models?
Sony soundbars are designed as universally compatible solutions for improving TV audio. They‘ll function optimally with virtually any modern 4K/8K smart TV brand. That said, using matching Sony gear can simplify initial setup thanks to auto-recognition and exclusive acoustic features like Sound Field Optimization.
What‘s better – a soundbar or a full home theater system?
If starting from scratch, a full 5.1-channel or 7.1-channel home theater system offers the most complete surround sound experience. But great soundbars provide 80-90% of the impact at a fraction of the cost and complexity. Soundbars work best for buyers prioritizing value, simplicity and convenience – especially in compact living spaces.
Do you need a subwoofer with a Sony soundbar?
While premium Sony soundbars for over $500 incorporate wireless subwoofers, more affordable models still perform admirably by themselves. Many budget-friendly options under $300 feature built-in subcomponents that provide sufficient bass punch for smaller rooms. Upfiring Dolby Atmos speakers add height ambience. But an external subwoofer maximizes low-frequency impact for explosive blockbusters and EDM tracks.
What‘s the difference between a basic and a Dolby Atmos soundbar?
Basic soundbars simply aim multiple drivers forward to boost overall volume and stereo separation over standard TV speakers. Dolby Atmos-ready models add special upfiring and side-firing speakers to bounce sound waves off surrounding surfaces for true 360° dimensionality with sounds perceived from overhead as well as lateral positions. Object-based Dolby Atmos mixes take fullest advantage but movies with 5.1 and 7.1 surround tracks also gain holographic spaciousness absent in basic soundbars.
