Posted Wed Jan 10, 2018 at 12:45 PM PST by Steven Cohen
Several upcoming sound bar models have been detailed.
Sony has revealed the latest additions to its sound bar lineup. The 2018 collection includes the HT‑Z9F Dolby Atmos Sound Bar, the HT-X9000F Dolby Atmos sound bar, and the HT-S200F sound bar.
"At Sony, we are committed to creating optimal listening and viewing experiences for our consumers as well as a stunning design," said Mike Fasulo, President and COO of Sony Electronics, North America. "Our new HT-Z9F and HT-X9000F Dolby Atmos sound bars with virtual three-dimensional sound enables consumers be surrounded by a truly impressive TV experience while looking great in your living room."
The HT‑Z9F is set to be the world's first 3.1 channel Dolby Atmos sound bar. Meanwhile, the HT-X9000F is a 2.1 channel Dolby Atmos sound bar. Both devices use Sony's new Virtual Surround Engine to simulate "vertical" sound in Dolby Atmos or DTS:X tracks without in-ceiling speakers or up-firing drivers. In addition, the HT-Z9F features S-Force PRO Front Surround technology to further enhance existing surround sound, and includes a "Vertical S." button to up-mix 2 channel stereo content to up to 7.1.2 channels. Likewise, customers can also opt to add a pair of wireless SA-Z9R rear speakers. Both models provide 4K HDR10 and Dolby Vision passthrough as well.
"Dolby continues to execute on its mission to bring Dolby Atmos to more people, in more places, through more form factors," said Giles Baker, SVP, Consumer Entertainment Group, Dolby Laboratories. "With the launch of these new Dolby Atmos sound bars, we’re bringing immersive, lifelike sound to even more of Sony’s lineup."
And beyond Dolby Atmos models, Sony also announced its new compact 2.1 channel HT-S200F sound bar. The device features a built-in sub-woofer, support for Dolby Audio, and S-Force PRO Surround Sound virtual surround tech.
Sony's HT-Z9F is set to launch in Spring 2018 for an MSRP of $899.99. In addition, the HT-X9000F will release in Spring for an MSRP of $599.99. Pricing for the HT-S200F has not been announced yet, but the sound bar is also expected to arrive in Spring 2018.
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