Sony has unveiled the new Sony HT-A7000 flagship soundbar with support for Dolby Atmos and DTS: X surround formats. For a fee, buyers will be able to equip it with a subwoofer and rear speakers. In addition, the HT-A9 audio system with 360 Spatial Sound technology can enhance the spatial sound of the soundbar.
Sony HD – A 7000
Four years after the launch of the HT-ST5000, Sony unveils a new flagship soundbar that “surrounds yourself with absolute realism” when watching movies, playing video games and playing music.
“The HT-A7000 soundbar is 7.1.2 configured with two upward channels, two tweeters and five front speakers for wide surround sound, while a built-in dual subwoofer delivers deep bass. Combined with the Vertical Surround Engine and S-Force PRO Front Surround technologies, this device creates a virtual surround sound that envelops users and allows them to enjoy Dolby Atmos and DTS: X in all their glory, ”Sony said.
The specificity of the operation of the upper channels is such that the sound directed to the ceiling is reflected from it and creates the feeling of an action taking place over the head, and two tweeters provide similar effects on the sides, using the walls for this.
The HT-A7000 has built-in microphones used to calibrate sound based on the acoustics of the room.
“Built-in microphones provide perfect surround sound in any room. You no longer need to tire yourself with finding the exact location of the subwoofer and rear speakers, as Sound Field Optimization automatically optimizes the sound by evaluating the parameters of the room. Even if you only buy the soundbar itself, you will truly enjoy its operation thanks to this function, ”explains Sony.
360-degree surround sound
In addition to the subwoofer and rear speakers, the manufacturer also proposes to complement the flagship soundbar with the HT-A9 set, which it calls the first home theater system with 360-degree surround sound technology.
“Feel the sound enveloping you from every angle with Sony’s revolutionary 360-degree surround sound technology. Sound Field Optimization accurately measures the relative height of each speaker and, based on its position, harmonizes the sound waves and creates up to 12 virtual speakers out of just 4 real ones, ”says Sony.
The HT-A9 is a set of four speakers that connect wirelessly to the main unit. True, they require an individual connection to the electrical network. Each of these speakers is equipped with a set of two microphones used for sound calibration. The HT-A9 supports Dolby Atmos and DTS: X surround formats.
Functions, prices
Both HT-A9 and HT-A7000 feature HDMI 2.1 input (with 8K HDR bandwidth, 4K / 120Hz Dolby Vision) and HDMI eARC output.
The HT-A7000 also features a new Acoustic Center Sync feature that allows a compatible Sony TV (Z9J, A90J, A80J, X95J) to act as an additional center channel. In addition, owners of Sony Z9J, A90J, A80J, X95J, X90J, X85J and X80J TVs will be able to adjust the soundbar settings via the on-screen menu.
Two subwoofers SA-SW5 300 W and SA-SW3 200 W are compatible with HT-A9 and HT-A7000. Also HT-A7000 can be equipped with SA-RS3S rear speakers.
Both the HT-A9 and HT-A7000 audio systems support “360 Reality Audio,” which is Sony’s proprietary format for surround sound reproduction. Songs compatible with it can be found on streaming platforms Amazon Music HD, Deezer, nugs.net and Tidal. It also supports Apple AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Chomecast, Spotify Connect, Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant features.
The new items described above will go on sale in September.
Sony HT-A7000 Prices:
– soundbar HT-A7000 – $ 1300
– set of speakers HT-A9 – $ 1800
– subwoofer SA-SW5 – $ 700
– subwoofer SA-SW3 – $ 400
– rear speakers SA-RS3S – $ 350
