Digital Dynamo for the Audiophile! Total Immersion!
If you're an audiophile, as I am, but don't have a space conducive to an elaborate 7.1 surround setup, or even for proper placement of a 5.1 system, the Sony HT-ST5 Soundbar / Wireless Subwoofer may be the perfect alternative. The fidelity of the sound coming from these 9 tiny speakers and subwoofer is unlike any other soundbar I've ever heard.
In my experience, most soundbars tend to have a rather flat, weak sound, without the rich tone spectrum one comes to expect of decent surround systems. The typical soundbars aren't meant to replace surround systems, but are a space-saving compromise for those who can't afford a decent surround system, or just don't have the space for one.
Sony is attempting to change that, and not doing too badly, either.
Pros:
****** Crisp, solid midrange throughout
****** Stunning Bass, with solid sound in the lowest bass ranges of the audio tested, without the bass breaking-up
****** No discernable...
Premium Sound!
I researched quite extensively for currently available sound bars. The Sony HT-ST7 came in at number 1. The HT-ST5 (this model) is the younger brother and is about 300$ cheaper. However the HT-ST5 still is of premium quality although the max sound/bass is lower than the HT-ST7. This is a great looking device with premium quality brushed metal look.Comparing the HT-ST7 to much more expensive(about 500-700$ more) Sonos, Definitive Technology and Bowers and Wilkins etc. the Sony just blew them away. The HT-ST5 also comes in very close to performing at the same levels as these other sound bars I mentioned (the price difference is even bigger then as the HT-ST5 is cheaper than the HT-ST7). The quality of music is unbelievable and does not get distorted at the max volume.I also have a Pioneer Amplifier (7.1 channel) and a Harmon Kardon Speaker system (8 speakers in total). This system is my main Home Theater and it is a mid/high-range system. So I cannot compare that system with the Sony...
A great sounding product but know that this is not for ...
This sound bar from sony gives me all the bass and sound quality you'd expect from a quality product. I dig the size and convenience factor along with the 3 inputs for hdmi as it eliminates my need for a receiver. A great sounding product but know that this is not for audiophiles or purist. The sound fills up the room nicely but not the same as a true surround setup with speakers behind you. The clear audio mode with no drc or auto volume adjustments sounds best, but voices sound low while watching blu-rays. There is no individual audio level up for the front speaker for voices. Only different voice options that give an unnatural sound to the voices along with boosted treble. Once you accept the fact your not going to get true 7.1 you will be happier. Since I live in an apt and don't want to wake the neighbors I suggest you enable drc and the autovolume to level the out the louder action scenes...but keep midnight mode off.(didn't like the equalization adjustments and lack of any...
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