Imagine settling into your favorite chair at home, ready to dive into a thrilling movie or rediscover that classic album. The anticipation of immersive sound can heighten the experience. But how often does reality fall short?
The quest for the perfect audio companion can feel overwhelming, with so many options out there. Fortunately, the Bose Smart Soundbar is designed to bridge that gap. It offers not just superior sound but also integrated voice control for a seamless experience. This Dolby Atmos review will explore this premium soundbar’s design, advanced features, and performance. It will help you decide if it’s the right addition to your home entertainment system.
Key Takeaways
- Bose Smart Soundbar is priced at $499, reflecting premium features.
- It receives a solid rating of 8/10, making it a recommended choice for audio lovers.
- Features 5 speakers with dedicated up-firing drivers for Dolby Atmos sound.
- Voice control capabilities offer convenience and ease of use.
- Immersive audio experience enhances movies, games, and music alike.
- This soundbar is designed to complement modern home entertainment setups effectively.
- Dimensions: 2.2 inches tall, just over 27 inches wide, fitting snugly into your space.
Introduction to Home Entertainment Systems
Home entertainment systems have changed a lot over the years. They now bring a movie-like experience right into your living room. These systems include many parts to make watching and listening better. Smart soundbars, in particular, are key for their ease of use and great sound.
Smart soundbars, like the Bose Soundbar 900, show how far we’ve come. They offer better sound and easy-to-use features. With HDMI eARC, they connect to TVs with just one cable, making setup simple. They fit well with big TVs, perfect for today’s home theaters.
Premium sound systems are all about giving you an immersive audio experience. Soundbars make watching movies and listening to music better by adding surround sound. People want easy voice control and wireless connections, showing they value convenience.
Why Choose a Smart Soundbar?
Getting a smart soundbar is a smart move for better home audio. These devices are known for their sleek design and great sound. They make your TV watching experience better without taking up too much space.
The voice control feature makes it easy to adjust the sound with just your voice. This is a big deal in today’s tech world. You can connect it to your phone or tablet via Bluetooth for easy music streaming.
Setting up a smart soundbar is a breeze. It’s much simpler than old surround sound systems that need a pro to install. Many, like Bose, have features that make the sound perfect for you right away.
| Feature | Smart Soundbar | Traditional Surround Sound System |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Ease | Simple & Quick | Complex & Time-Consuming |
| Space Requirement | Compact Design | Requires More Space |
| Voice Control | Available | Not Typically Available |
| Price Point | Generally Lower | Usually Higher |
Choosing a smart soundbar means you get the latest tech for better sound and ease. It’s a great choice for your home entertainment because of its quality sound, easy controls, and small size.
Overview of the Bose Smart Soundbar
The Bose Smart Soundbar is a top-notch home audio system priced at $499. It uses Dolby Atmos to create an immersive sound experience. It’s great for rooms around 10 ft x 12 ft in size.
It’s compact, measuring 2.21 inches high, 27.34 inches wide, and 4.09 inches deep. This makes it easy to fit into your entertainment area.
It weighs 6.91 pounds, making it light and simple to move. The soundbar has a 3.0.2 speaker setup with five speakers, including a center tweeter. It’s good at making dialogue clear, thanks to AI Dialogue Mode.
But, it might not provide enough bass. This could impact the sound quality in some situations.
The Bose Smart Soundbar can also connect with Bose Ultra Open Earbuds for $299. This lets you enjoy a more personal sound experience. It’s a great addition to the Bose lineup, blending design and function for audio lovers.
| Feature | Bose Smart Soundbar | Bose Ultra Soundbar | Bose TV Speaker |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $499 | $899 | $249 |
| Weight | 6.9 lbs | 12.68 lbs | 4.34 lbs |
| Speaker Configuration | 3.0.2 | 5.0.4 | 3.0 |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 2.21″ x 27.34″ x 4.09″ | 2.29″ x 41.14″ x 4.21″ | 2.21″ x 23.38″ x 4.02″ |
| Special Features | Dolby Atmos, AI Dialogue Mode | Advanced surround sound | Compact design |
Design and Build Quality
The Bose Smart Soundbar is a perfect mix of looks and function. It has modern aesthetics with rounded corners and a sleek metal grille. This design fits well with any TV setup without blocking your view.
It’s light, weighing only 5.8 kg (about 6.9 pounds). This compact soundbar is easy to move but packs a big sound punch. Its size, 5.8 x 105 x 11 cm, makes it space-friendly without losing impact.
The materials used make it durable and stylish. It’s not just a sound device but also a design statement for your home. Perfect for small spaces, it combines sleek looks with great sound, making it a top pick for modern homes.
Dolby Atmos Technology Explained
Dolby Atmos technology is a big step forward in audio engineering. It offers an immersive audio experience unlike traditional systems. It can place up to 118 audio objects in a three-dimensional space, making sound move around you.
This is different from standard surround sound systems. Those usually have fixed speaker placements, like 5.1 or 7.1.
The Bose Smart Soundbar uses Dolby Atmos with upward-firing speakers. This creates a 5.1.2 configuration, adding height channels for a more realistic sound. It makes environments feel alive and immersive.
Streaming platforms now offer a wide range of Dolby Atmos content. You can find enhanced movies, shows, and music on Apple Music. This leads to clearer and more detailed sound.
Dolby Atmos also supports various speaker setups, from 5.1.2 to 34 speakers. This means you can customize the sound to fit your space perfectly.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Audio Objects | Up to 118 objects can be placed in a 3D space |
| Standard Surround Sound Configurations | 5.1, 7.1 setups featured |
| Dolby Atmos Configuration | 5.1.2, 7.1.2, 7.1.4, etc. |
| Height Channels | Two or four channels available in configurations |
| Availability | Content accessible on major streaming services |
| Bose Soundbar Speakers | Five internal speakers with two upward-firing speakers for Atmos |
| Price | $899 / £899 / AU$1,499 |
Using Dolby Atmos technology changes how you enjoy audio at home. It brings exciting and dynamic soundscapes to your entertainment system.
Sound Performance Insights
Sound performance is key when checking out the Bose Smart Soundbar. It offers clear audio, making dialogue in movies and shows easy to hear. This is great for those who love shows and movies with lots of talking.
But, the soundbar’s bass is lacking. Its small size means it can’t produce deep bass. This might not be good for fans of action scenes or music with strong bass.
The Bose Smart Soundbar does well with different types of audio. It shines with cinematic sounds, making movies feel more real. But, playing it too loud can cause distortion.
For the best sound, set up the soundbar right. Place it so it’s at ear level and in the middle of your TV. Make sure nothing blocks the sound for a better listening experience.
| Audio Quality Aspect | Bose Smart Soundbar |
|---|---|
| Dialogue Clarity | High |
| Bass Response | Limited |
| Performance at High Volumes | Distortion Noted |
| Overall Balance | Moderate |
| Optimal Placement Impact | Significant |
In summary, the Bose Smart Soundbar is great for clear sound and dialogue. But, it has a weak bass. With the right setup, you can enjoy a good viewing experience, knowing its strengths and weaknesses.
Bose Smart Soundbar: Immersive Audio Experience
The Bose Smart Soundbar offers an amazing immersive audio experience. It uses Dolby Atmos technology for surround sound that feels like you’re right in the action. Whether you’re watching movies or playing games, it makes you feel like you’re part of it.
This soundbar has 5 speakers, including a center tweeter for clear dialogue. It’s only 2.21″ H x 27.34″ W x 4.09″ D, so it won’t take up much space. It fits well under most TVs, making it easy to set up.
The Bose Smart Soundbar also has Bose Spatial Technologies. It uses five transducers for multi-dimensional audio that fits any kind of content. Plus, Bose TrueSpace technology makes older movies sound better than ever.
Another cool feature is Personal Surround Sound. Pair it with Bose Ultra Open Earbuds for a custom audio experience. The sound quality is top-notch, thanks to QuietPort technology that reduces distortion and boosts bass.
If you want the best audio experience at home, the Bose Smart Soundbar is a great choice. It turns regular listening into an unforgettable adventure, making every movie night or gaming session special.
Voice Control Features
The voice control soundbar changes how you use your home entertainment. It has Amazon Alexa built-in. This lets you control playback, adjust the volume, and find music or shows with just your voice. It makes controlling your media easy, whether you’re busy or just relaxing.
When you link it with smart home devices, the Bose Smart Soundbar gets even better. It works with other Alexa gadgets to make your home smart. For example, you can ask Alexa to dim the lights while watching a movie. This makes your movie night even better.
But, there are some downsides to voice control. Sometimes, voice commands get mixed up, mainly in loud places. To get better results, make sure your voice commands are clear and direct.
To wrap up, here’s a quick look at what the Bose Smart Soundbar and Alexa integration offer:
| Feature | Bose Smart Soundbar | Alexa Integration |
|---|---|---|
| Voice Control | Yes | Yes |
| Smart Home Device Integration | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-room Capabilities | Yes | Yes |
| Common Limitations | Occasional misinterpretations | Context-sensitive to ambient noise |
Wireless Connectivity Options
The Bose Smart Soundbar 700 is a top pick for those wanting a premium audio experience. It has both Wi-Fi® and Bluetooth®. This makes streaming music from various sources easy.
It supports popular streaming options like Apple AirPlay 2. You can also use Spotify®, Amazon Music, and Apple Music. This means you can enjoy your favorite music without dealing with complicated wiring.
The soundbar uses QuietPort technology to reduce noise and enhance bass. PhaseGuide technology ensures sound goes in all directions, creating an immersive experience. Whether you’re listening to music, watching movies, or gaming, the soundbar delivers top-notch quality.
The Bose Smart Soundbar 700 combines beauty with performance. It has custom low-profile transducers and ADAPTiQ audio room calibration. Bose SimpleSync™ technology lets you connect it with Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones for a personalized sound experience.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi® Compatibility | Allows for seamless streaming from various music services. |
| Bluetooth® Capability | Pair with devices for easy music playback. |
| Apple AirPlay 2 | Stream directly from Apple devices effortlessly. |
| QuietPort Technology | Ensures clear bass by reducing unwanted noise. |
| ADAPTiQ Audio Room Calibration | Optimizes sound for your specific room acoustics. |
| SimpleSync™ | Pair with Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones for personalized audio. |
AI Dialogue Mode for Enhanced Clarity
The AI Dialogue Mode in the Bose Smart Soundbar was introduced in fall 2023. It makes voice clarity better by adjusting sound balance during playback. You get clear dialogue and immersive background sounds.
Soundbar technology keeps getting better, and AI Dialogue Mode is a big step forward. It’s great for action movies where loud sounds can hide dialogue. The AI adjusts audio channels to keep conversations clear.
Using the Bose Smart Soundbar, you’ll notice dialogue is much clearer. This makes watching movies more fun, as you catch every important line.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| AI Dialogue Mode | Automatically adjusts tonal balance to enhance speech clarity in real-time. |
| Playback Quality | Balances voice and surround sound without losing richness in background audio. |
| Compatibility | Works effectively with various genres of films, including action and drama. |
| Price | $499 for the Bose Smart Soundbar on the Bose website. |
The AI Dialogue Mode in the Bose Smart Soundbar makes dialogue in movies and shows clearer. This boosts your audio experience. It shows Bose’s dedication to top-notch audio for home entertainment.
Setting Up Your Bose Smart Soundbar
Setting up your Bose Smart Soundbar is easy thanks to the detailed guide. Just follow these simple steps for a smooth setup:
- Connect the Soundbar to your TV: Use an HDMI cable to connect the soundbar to the TV’s HDMI eARC port for the best sound.
- Power Connection: Plug the soundbar into a power outlet and make sure it’s on.
- Download the Bose Connect App: Get the app on your mobile device or computer. It will help you set up.
- Run ADAPTiQ Audio Calibration: This step makes the soundbar sound better by adjusting to your room’s acoustics.
- Wireless Setup: Turn on Bluetooth and connect to your wireless network via the app.
- Light Bar Check: Make sure the light bar on the soundbar shows it’s in setup mode.
- Account Setup: Open the Bose app and sign in or create a new account. Allow the app to access your device.
- Name Your Soundbar: Personalize your soundbar by naming it in the app settings.
- Connect Additional Devices: Use the SoundTouch app to link more audio devices and set up the bass module if you have one.
- Select Voice Assistant: Pick your favorite voice assistant and add it through the app for better control.
These steps make setting up your Bose Smart Soundbar quick and easy. They help you get the most out of your soundbar right away.
Comparing Bose Smart Soundbar to Competitors
When looking at soundbars, it’s key to consider sound quality, cost, and extra features. The Bose Smart Soundbar and the Sonos Beam Gen 2 have unique benefits for different users.
The Bose Smart Soundbar costs $499, while the Sonos Beam Gen 2 is $449. Sales can make the Sonos Beam Gen 2 even cheaper. The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is known for its Dolby Atmos, winning awards for three years running.
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 has:
- Four front-facing mid-woofers
- One center tweeter
- Five Class D amplifiers
- Three passive radiators
This setup helps create a clear sound field. The Bose Smart Soundbar has:
- Five transducers, including two side-firing racetrack transducers
- A center-channel tweeter
- Dual upward-firing drivers for Dolby Atmos height effects
The Bose Smart Soundbar is great for clear dialogue and immersive sound. The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is better for music. The Bose is shorter but wider, affecting where you can place it.
Both soundbars have modern features like multi-room streaming and app control. The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is better for music streaming, working with many services. The Bose Smart Soundbar has AI Dialogue mode for clearer speech, perfect for movie lovers.
Choosing between the Bose Smart Soundbar and the Sonos Beam Gen 2 depends on what you need. Look at features, price, and sound quality to find the best fit for your home.
Bose Ultra Open Earbuds: Pairing for an Enhanced Experience
Pairing the Bose Ultra Open Earbuds with the Smart Soundbar offers a unique immersive audio experience. These earbuds, priced at $299, are the only Bose option for Personal Surround Sound. This feature greatly enhances audio quality.
The Bose Ultra Open Earbuds and Smart Soundbar take home entertainment to a new level. Imagine your favorite movies or music with personal surround sound all around you. This combo turns regular listening into an exciting experience, making the sound feel more real and engaging.
Here are some key details about this pairing:
| Feature | Bose Ultra Open Earbuds | Bose Smart Soundbar |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $299 | $499 |
| Drivers | N/A | 5 |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Battery Life | 7 hours | N/A |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 | N/A |
| Customer Rating | 4 out of 5 | 5 out of 5 |
This combo is not just convenient but also comfortable for long wear. It doesn’t sacrifice sound quality. Bose’s focus on innovation is clear, as more people look for alternatives to traditional rear speakers for their home theaters.
Using the earbuds with the Soundbar provides a smooth connection for audio lovers. It saves on setup costs and brings theater-like sound to your living room.
Limitations of the Bose Smart Soundbar
The Bose Smart Soundbar has many great features. But, it also has some downsides. Knowing these can help you decide if it’s right for you.
One big issue is the soundbar’s bass response. It does okay in most situations. But, it might not deliver enough bass in music that’s all about the bass. This can be a problem for those who love deep, rich sound.
Another problem is it doesn’t support DTS. This means it might not give you the best surround sound. Most people want soundbars that can really bring the sound around you to life. The Bose Smart Soundbar only has 3.0 channels, which might not be as good as others.
Also, it doesn’t have an HDMI In port. This makes it hard to connect lots of devices. This can be frustrating when you’re setting it up. Think about these points when choosing a soundbar to make sure it fits your needs.
Accessories and Upgrades for Better Sound
To truly enhance your audio experience, exploring Bose soundbar accessories can make a big difference. These optional upgrades improve sound quality and create a more immersive environment. Let’s dive into some key accessories that can elevate your audio performance.
The Bose Bass Module is a must-have for deep, rich low-end sounds. This powerful add-on enhances the soundbar’s capabilities, perfect for music and movies. For an enveloping surround sound experience, consider additional wireless speakers that work seamlessly with your soundbar.
Using these accessories requires careful placement for optimal performance. Here are key guidelines to follow:
- Avoid recessed spaces that can undermine audio quality.
- Keep the soundbar at least four inches away from the TV to prevent interference.
- Maintain a minimum distance of one foot from any wireless devices to avoid signal clashes.
- Ensure the surface is stable and level to avoid vibrations.
- Position the soundbar at ear level for the best sound projection.
- Keep it away from excessive light and heat sources.
- Maintain an unobstructed path around the soundbar to allow sound to flow freely.
- Avoid placing any objects on top of the soundbar to maintain Dolby Atmos performance.
- Regularly clean the soundbar to remove dust and debris.
Using the Bose Music app lets you adjust equalizer settings for a personalized listening experience. To further enhance your setup, integrate the soundbar with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. This provides hands-free control for a smoother audio experience.
In summary, investing in Bose soundbar accessories and carefully considering their placement will undoubtedly enhance sound system performance. This allows you to enjoy your media in a new light.
Pricing and Value for Money
The Bose Smart Soundbar now costs $399.00, down from $499.00. This Bose Smart Soundbar pricing is $100 cheaper, making it a great deal. It offers top-notch sound quality and an immersive experience, perfect for those looking for value for money.
The Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar is priced at $799.00, a $100 drop from $899.00. The Bose TV Speaker is more affordable at $199.00, down from $279.00. This pricing helps you find the right audio solution for your budget.
Here’s a quick look at the current prices and specs of these models:
| Model | Current Price | Original Price | Weight | Speakers | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bose Smart Soundbar | $399.00 | $499.00 | 6.91 lb | 5 total speakers + Center Tweeter | 2.21″ H x 27.34″ W x 4.09″ D |
| Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar | $799.00 | $899.00 | 12.68 lb | 9 total speakers + Center Tweeter | 2.29″ H x 41.14″ W x 4.21″ D |
| Bose TV Speaker | $199.00 | $279.00 | 4.34 lb | 3 total speakers | 2.21″ H x 23.38″ W x 4.02″ D |
This breakdown helps you see if the Bose Smart Soundbar fits your audio needs. It balances cost and quality, making it a top choice for budget audio solutions.
Conclusion
In this Bose Smart Soundbar review, we’ve looked at many features. It has great sound thanks to Dolby Atmos and smart voice control. It’s a top choice for a 5.1.2 channel setup, but it has some downsides.
For example, it doesn’t support DTS:X and lacks full HDMI In ports. This might not be good for everyone.
If you want to improve your home entertainment, the Bose Smart Soundbar is a great option. It has HDMI eARC, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi for easy connections. It also has TrueSpace and Adaptiq for better sound.
But, if you really want deep bass, you might need a separate subwoofer. This is because the soundbar might not have enough bass on its own.
When choosing a soundbar, think about what you need. If you want something easy to use and great quality, this might be for you. The Bose Smart Soundbar is a strong contender in the market. Just make sure to think about all your options before deciding.
FAQ
What features make the Bose Smart Soundbar stand out?
The Bose Smart Soundbar has Dolby Atmos for amazing sound. It also has AI Dialogue Mode for clear speech. Plus, it works with Amazon Alexa for voice control, making it top-notch for home entertainment.
How does the Bose Smart Soundbar connect to other devices?
It connects wirelessly through Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, and Google Chromecast. This makes streaming easy and setup simple for your audio system.
Can I control the soundbar using my voice?
Yes, you can. The Bose Smart Soundbar has voice control built-in. This lets you control playback and volume without using your hands, working well with smart home devices.
Is the Bose Smart Soundbar good for music and movies?
Absolutely! It offers clear and dynamic sound for music and movies. It’s a great addition to your home entertainment system.
Does the soundbar require special installation?
No, setting it up is easy. Just follow the instructions. It connects to your TV via HDMI eARC for the best sound.
What are some limitations of the Bose Smart Soundbar?
It might not have enough bass due to its size. It also doesn’t support DTS and has no HDMI In port. This might limit its use with many devices.
Can I enhance the audio with additional accessories?
Yes, you can. Adding the Bose Bass Module improves the low-end sound. You can also get wireless speakers for a better surround sound experience.
How does the Bose Smart Soundbar compare to competitors?
The Bose Smart Soundbar beats the Sonos Beam (Gen 2) in sound and voice control. But it costs more. Think about what you need before choosing.
