As the choices in mounting options for TVs grows, so do the challenges in speaker
placement. Thin, lightweight displays can be mounted above the mantle, above a slim
console, or on an open wall. So, where do you place the speakers? While in-walls offer
an elegant solution, installing them is not always feasible. Enter the soundbar and its
versatile installation and feature options.
Many of today’s leading audio manufacturers offer a soundbar solution, an all-in- one
speaker system that delivers high-quality audio without requiring the space of a home
theater receiver and surround sound speaker system. Mounted or placed below your
display, they offer exceptional sound and stunning design. A remarkable improvement
to your TV’s speakers, the soundbar features a center channel and often a full LCR (left,
center and right channels) experience. Some are designed to be paired with surround
speakers and a subwoofer while others replicate full surround sound.
Connectivity, control and quality are prevalent across today’s models, offering
conveniences such as music streaming, wireless connectivity and simple IR learning for
integrated control through your current remote. Martin Logan’s Motion® Vision X with
DTS Play-Fi® technology allows listeners to stream high-res music wirelessly over
existing Wi-Fi networks.
Bose answered the call for a slim soundbar with its SoundTouch 300, boasting a
technology-packed low-profile speaker that pumps out big sound. It features QuietPort
technology that eliminates distortion, allowing deep, rich bass.
Triad has an extensive array of options ranging in size and capabilities. They offer micro
and mini LCR’s as well as a micro 3-in- 1 speaker designed for use with shallow flat-
panel televisions. New to their line-up is their on-wall Mini LCR 3.0 SE (Special Edition),
offering “unparalleled” performance with 3 separate audiophile speaker systems
integrated into one sleek, acoustiperf-grilled package.
Dolby Atmos brings a new “dimension”
Dolby Atmos sets the bar even higher with its immersive, realistic technology. Dolby
Atmos “frees” sound from its channels for heightened impact by enabling finer control of
each individual sound. Through strategically positioned speakers, sounds move around
the listener from every dimension for an immersive, life-like experience. A few
manufacturers have started to offer Dolby Atmos in their soundbars. Paired with one its
breathtaking 4K displays, Samsung delivers a seamless 4K Hi-Res Audio experience
with its HW-K950 Soundbar speaker system. The system replicates cinema-style sound
with 15 built-in speakers including 4 upward-firing drivers and rear wireless speakers for
crystal-clear sound all around.
Sony recently introduced a 7.1.2 channel Dolby Atmos/DTS:X TM Soundbar and
subwoofer system that claims its 3-dimensional, accurately positioned 360º surround
sound will take your breath away. We don’t doubt that it will!
On-wall or on console, wireless and Blu tooth, surround sound or Dolby Atmos, the
choices are endless but all are great solutions for incredible audio and gorgeous design.
Give us a call, we’ll help determine the best features and solutions for your overall
system requirements, connectivity, control and space.