Audio Video News

Soundbars

Yamaha MusicCast BAR 400 Soundbar System: $499

Yamaha’s ultra-sleek BAR 400 system is a deft performer when it comes to bringing movie soundtracks to life. Throw in a MusicCast 50 wireless speaker ($499) and, in the words of reviewer Leslie Shapiro, you have a “stellar wireless 5.1 system that creates an immersive experience.” But the BAR 400 is much more than just a streamlined movie sound system: It can just as easily be pressed into action as a multiroom music system, thanks to the inclusion of Yamaha’s excellent app-based MusicCast platform.

AT A GLANCE
Plus
DTS Virtual:X simulated surround processing
Simple set up
Multiroom capability
Optional MusicCast 50 wireless speaker ($499) can be used to boost surround performance
Minus
Unnecessarily complicated user controls
No Chromecast built-in

Full Review Here

Vizio 5.1.4 Atmos Soundbar: $999

For many of us, a full-blown Dolby Atmos speaker system is simply out of the question due to concerns over complexity, space, budget, or some combination of the three. Enter what may be the ultimate compromise: Vizio’s 5.1.4 soundbar system (model SB46514-F6), which delivers a shockingly good immersive surround-sound experience from a four-piece setup comprising a 46-inch-wide bar with eight drivers (two up-firing), two rear satellite speakers (also with up-firing drivers), and a subwoofer. As a bonus, the system supports wireless streaming via Bluetooth and Chromecast.

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Potent sound for the price
5.1.4 Atmos playback
Chromecast built-in for music streaming
Minus
No wireless surround speaker option
No DTS:X decoding

Full Review Here

 

Subwoofers

SVS SB-3000 Subwoofer: $1,099 (piano black), $999 (black ash)

Scoring five stars in three of our four evaluation categories, Ohio’s SVS has proved once again that it is the master of its domain. The SB-3000 shines on many levels, starting with its ability to deliver sub-20-Hz bass from a relatively compact enclosure at a price that will leave you scratching your head. Add to that an incredibly useful app that lets you adjust volume and a whole slew of parameters without leaving the couch, and you have a subwoofer that actually lives up to SVS’s ballsy claim that the 3000 is the best performing subwoofer of its size.

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Outstanding performance for price
Excellent iOS/Android control app
Compact form factor
Minus
Lacks auto-calibration/room EQ

Full Review Here

To browse all Sound & Vision-recommended AV gear, broken out by category, visit our Top Picks page.