Audio Video News

Sound & Vision Top Picks for the month of June include two TVs — one a 4K OLED that delivers breathtaking images, the other a super-bright LCD set that costs $1,500 less — a $500 soundbar that’s does a lot more than just improve movie sound, and a pair of tower speakers from a legendary name in audio that can be had for five hundred bucks.

JBL Stage A170 Tower Speaker: $500/pair

The A170s’ ordinary looks aren’t going to win any beauty contests but reviewer Michael Trei is quick to direct our attention to what really counts — the sound quality delivered by this unassuming pair of speakers from JBL, one of audio’s most iconic brands. As he put it, “The A170 is a slam-dunk winner,” delivering an impressively wide and deep soundstage and nailing tonal accuracy. If you’re looking for good speakers but are low on cash, make the JBL A170s your first stop.

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Clear and dynamic sound
Bargain price

Minus
Plain-Jane appearance
Limited finish options

Full Review Here

 

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