Sony SA-Z9R

Sony HT-ZF9 review: an excellent soundbar for an Atmos-lite experience, but it can sometimes but more than a little confusing.

Immersive object-based surround sound from a soundbar with minimal setup muss and fuss? Seriously? Scott Wasser says it's totally a thing thanks to Sony's HT-Z9F/SA-Z9R combo.

The Sony HT-Z9F is a 3.1 channel Dolby Atmos soundbar that claims to provide 7.1.2 channel effect using Sony's Virtual Surround sound technology. The speaker justifies the price but when it comes to the true Dolby Atmos surround effect the 7.1.2 channel output from a 3.1 or 5.1 channel setup seems to be a gimmick. For most part, it does manage to talk the talk and walk the walk. Something that can’t be said for most other similar products in the market.

Sony HT-Z9F soundbar review: The audio quality of the HT-Z9F is top-notch. It is bigger and more wholehearted than a lot of other soundbars I have tried.

The very idea seems preposterous. 
A 3.1-channel Dolby Atmos soundbar system that lacks upfiring speakers? Ridiculous. But that’s exactly what Sony offers here. The HT-ZF9 adopts a conventional bar and wireless sub approach, but uses DSP magic 
to create an immersive audio experience. 
It sells for £650, but can be upgraded with 
a pair of SA-Z9R wireless rears (£300) to create a discrete flatbed 5.1 system. Placement is unfussy, as it doesn't use reflected sound to craft its soundstage.

The Sony HT-Z9F is a good 3.1 soundbar setup that does a great job with dialogue thanks to its dedicated center speaker. It features a wireless subwoofer that he...

Atmos goes 3.1

It’s onwards and upwards for Sony’s latest Atmos soundbar.