Sony has just unveiled a new mid-range soundbar that is full of immersive audio tech. The 3.1-channel HT-A3000 features Dolby Atmos and Sony’s spatial audio solution.
Get the full effect of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X with Sony’s Vertical Surround Engine, S-Force PRO Front Surround and 360 Spatial Sound Mapping
But that is not all! It comes with 360 Sound Mapping technology, which aims to deliver an “ultra-wide listening area.”
Along with Dolby Atmos, the HT-A3000 even has the support for DTS:X. Although, it does not have the dedicated up-firing speakers that you will find on some of the DTS:X supported speakers.
Nonetheless, the soundbar has three front speakers, two subwoofers, and a dedicated center channel speaker. However, if the 3.1-channel setup does not seem the right move for you, you can upgrade it!
Yes, you can use it as a part of a surround sound system. That has become possible thanks to the support of optional RS5 wireless rear speakers and SA-SW5 wireless subwoofer from Sony.
Now, if you are more into streaming, there is another great news for you! You can connect the HT-A3000 with all your favorite services that includes Tidal and Spotify.
Also, it has the support for Chromecast and AirPlay. Those will make it possible for you to pair the soundbar with a compatible source. You can even rely on Bluetooth for that.
Furthermore, the A3000 also comes with the support for 360 Reality Audio format from Sony. This format aims to provide you with an ultimate immersive studio session or live concert experience.
And thanks to the technology that Sony has integrated into the soundbar, it does seem like the soundbar will excel in offering that.
So, what about control? Actually, you will not need to worry about that one bit. Sony has integrated Google Assistant into it. And the A3000 also works with Amazon Alexa devices. That means you will be capable of controlling the parameters of the soundbar with your voice.
That said, when it comes to inputs, the HT-A3000 comes with some of the typical inputs you will find in current audio devices. That includes optical, USB, and, most importantly, HDMI eARC.
As Sony chose to include eARC over the regular HDMI ARC, the soundbar will be capable of handling higher bandwidth. With the eARC, you will have a better audio quality as the signal does not require much compression.
So, when will it come out? According to the announcement, the A3000 is due to hit the stores this October. However, the release date for the US is not confirmed yet. It will only release in Europe in October. It is also set to hit the Australian markets in September.
Slava is a man of mystery and no-one seems to know exactly where he is at any point in time. When he isn't enjoying writing about all things audio and technical he can be found researching his next project of interest. The man never rests.
This post was last updated on 2023-09-25 / Some images from Amazon Product API & some links may be affiliate links which may earn us a commission from purchases.