Sony has launched a new and much more affordable Dolby Atmos soundbar targeted at the lower end of the market.
The new Sony HT-G700 is a 3.1 channel Dolby Atmos soundbar and subwoofer combo that’s priced at just £450. It uses fewer speakers than more premium Dolby Atmos soundbars available, hence the lower price tag.
Sony said in a press release that the HT-G700 soundbar is equipped with a Vertical Surround Engine that helps its three front speakers to create up to a 7.1.2-channel surround sound system, which creates a sense of height as well as depth. That apparently makes up for its lack of upward-firing and rear speakers, the company said. The HT-G7000 also has improved signal processing, making it able to deliver surround sound over a much wider area than its 2019 2.1 channel HT-XF9000, for example.
The HT-G700 comes complete with an external wireless subwoofer that’s designed to produce a rich, deep bass that complements the its performance.
Sony also reckons it has been able to improve dialogue quality through the inclusion of a centre speaker.
The Sony HT-G700 also offers enhanced Audio Return Channel connectivity that enables it to receive Dolby Atmos and DTS:X sound from connected TVs, as well as a standard Bluetooth connection.
Regular stereo audio can also be upscaled to 7.1.2 surround sound thanks to the HT-G700’s Immersive Auto Enhancement feature. Meanwhile, Sony’s S-Force PRO mode technology enables the soundbar to “lift” the sound it broadcasts higher, so as to cover the top of larger TVs measuring 55-inches and up.
Sony already offers sells several premium Dolby Atmos soundbars, including the HT-ST5000 and HT-ZF9, for those with bigger budgets.
