Top Sony soundbars 2024: Expert picks for supreme audio

Finding the best Sony soundbar for all budgets in 2024

Best Sony soundbars
last updated Mar 17, 2024

If you're navigating the vast sea of soundbars, feeling a bit swamped by choices, take a deep breath. You are definitely not alone. The variety can seem as endless as the array of TVs out there. However, setting your sights on a Sony can significantly streamline your decision-making process.

Why opt for Sony, you might ask? Simply put, Sony stands out by crafting some of the finest soundbars available, boasting exceptional Dolby Atmos models that are a cut above. Pair one with a Sony TV, and you unlock exclusive features absent in competitors' models.

Here, we've curated a list of top-tier Sony soundbars — all rigorously evaluated and highly recommended by our team of experts. To sweeten the pot, we've also included the best deals available right now, making premium sound more accessible.

So, without further ado, let's explore...

Quick reference guide

Discover Canada's top pick for Sony soundbars

1. Sony HT-A7000

Discover unparalleled audio clarity with our top-rated speaker, featuring immersive Dolby Atmos technology to elevate your listening experience.

specification
  • Connectivity: eARC, 2*HDMI 2.1, optical, USB, WiFi, Ethernet
  • Sound format support : Dolby Atmos/ Dolby AudioTM/ DTS
  • Streaming : Chromecast, Bluetooth 5, Apple Airplay 2, WiFi
  • Voice control : Google Assistant, Alexa
  • Dimensions (hwd) : 8 x 130 x 14 cm
  • Weight: 8.7kg
reasons to buy
  • + Durable and reliable
  • + Superior sound quality
  • + Packed with features
reasons to avoid
  • - Lacks smooth video start
  • - Missing sound adjustment features
  • - Unclear design choices

The Sony HT-A7000 stands out as a phenomenal soundbar, offering a high-quality audio experience that's hard to match. Without a doubt, its performance and features set a high bar for what we expect from audio equipment today.

Experience a rich, immersive sound with 7.1.2 channels, complete with two up-firing speakers and a built-in dual subwoofer. It supports a variety of audio formats such as Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, LPCM, and high-resolution wireless audio along with Sony 360 Reality Audio, ensuring unparalleled auditory delight.

Not just a powerhouse in sound, the HT-A7000 excels in connectivity. Features like Spotify Connect, Apple AirPlay 2, and Google Chromecast are built right in, along with compatibility with Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and Google Home. Those with a newer Bravia TV will discover seamless integration, significantly enhancing the entertainment experience.

Comparing it to other premium soundbars like the Sonos Arc, the HT-A7000 not only matches but often surpasses expectations in audio height, precision, and width. Its soundstage projects powerfully forward without sacrificing musicality, detail, or control.

While it may represent a significant investment, the Sony HT-A7000 is truly an all-encompassing, future-ready soundbar. It's a purchase that promises to enrich your audio-visual experience significantly.

Top mid-range soundbar from Sony for Canadian listeners

2. Sony HT-A5000

Explore how Sony's innovative mid-range Dolby Atmos soundbar transcends ordinary listening experiences, empowering Canadians to make informed audio enhancement decisions.

Sony HT-A5000 soundbar displayed on a crisp white background
(Image credit: Future)
specification
  • Connectivity: eARC, 1x HDMI 2.1, optical, USB
  • Sound format support: Dolby Atmos/ Dolby AudioTM/ DTS
  • Streaming : Chromecast, Bluetooth 5, Apple Airplay 2, WiFi
  • Voice control: Alexa, Google Assistant
  • Dimensions (hwd): 6.7 x 121 x 14cm
  • Weight: 6.1kg
reasons to buy
  • + Rich, immersive sound quality
  • + Seamless device connection
  • + Easy on-screen setup
reasons to avoid
  • - Basic audio adjustments
  • - Vocals miss clarity
  • - Lacks early gaming features

Looking for an immersive sound experience that elevates your home entertainment to cinematic levels? The Sony HT-A5000, equipped with Dolby Atmos technology, stands out as a formidable sonic powerhouse.

This soundbar isn't just about sound; it’s a feature-rich hub for gamers too, thanks to its HDMI 2.1 passthrough socket. Coupled with a sleek remote and superior wireless connectivity options—Bluetooth 5.0, AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and Spotify Connect—it’s incredibly versatile.

The HT-A5000 excels in producing a rich, room-filling sound that brings out the finest details in your favorite tracks and movie scores. Although it might not reach the heights (quite literally) of some pricier models in projecting overhead sounds, its performance is nothing short of stellar.

Offering impressive sound quality and great value for money, the Sony HT-A5000 serves as an excellent single-box solution for enhancing your audio experience. However, when compared to some of the top performers like the Sonos Arc, it falls a tad short in delivering those breathtaking overhead sound effects.

Finding the top affordable Sony soundbar with Atmos for Canadians

3. Sony HT-A3000

Experience unparalleled audio clarity with our guide to the best budget-friendly cinematic sound systems, featuring Dolby Atmos technology, tailored for informed decisions by our Canadian readers.

Sony HT-A3000 on a TV cabinet beneath a TV
(Image credit: Sony)
specification
  • Connectivity: eARC, optical, USB
  • Sound format support: Dolby Atmos/ DTS
  • Streaming : Chromecast, Bluetooth 5, Apple Airplay 2, WiFi
  • Voice control: Alexa, Google Assistant
  • Dimensions (hwd): 6.4 x 95 x 13cm
  • Weight: 4.6kg
reasons to buy
  • + Crisp voice clarity
  • + Robust performance
  • + User-friendly menu
reasons to avoid
  • - Sound projection needs improvement
  • - Weak height sound channels
  • - Faces strong competitors

The A3000 stands as the entry-level offering in the HT-A series, providing a budget-friendly yet immersive audio experience. Though it's the smallest and most affordable option, it still packs a punch with Dolby Atmos capabilities. To keep it accessible, some features found in its upscale siblings, like upward-firing drivers and extra HDMI inputs, have been scaled back.

In line with the sleek aesthetics of its higher-end counterparts, the A3000 boasts a chic black plastic casing highlighted with tasteful copper touches. Functionality isn't sacrificed for form; it includes intuitive capacitive touch buttons for seamless control over power, input selection, streaming options, Bluetooth pairing, and volume adjustment. And with the included remote control, convenience is just a click away, ensuring you can enjoy superb sound without leaving the comfort of your couch.

Despite its classification as a mid-range model, the A3000 outshines competitors like the Sonos Beam in size, promising a commanding presence in any entertainment setup. It is adept at handling a variety of audio formats, including DTS:X, Dolby Digital, Sony 360 Reality Audio, and, of course, Dolby Atmos.

The audio performance is characterized by its natural sound delivery and precisely placed effects. For those seeking to boost dialogue clarity, deactivating Sound Field enhances vocal focus but at the expense of a more condensed soundstage and a somewhat flatter overall sound. While it attempts to replicate surround sound effects and mimic the sensation of height channels without upward-firing drivers, its sound projection into the space may leave some wanting more.

Nevertheless, when considering its price point, the A3000 offers a commendable audio experience that's hard to beat, making it a smart choice for audiophiles on a budget.

Affordable Sony soundbars for Canadian homes

4. Sony HT-SF150

Enhance your home entertainment experience with this affordable Sony soundbar, delivering superior sound quality that transforms your TV moments.

Sony HT-SF150 soundbar against a white backdrop
(Image credit: Future)
specification
  • Sound formats: Dolby Digital, Dolby Dual mono, LPCM 2ch
  • Connectivity : HDMI, optical, USB, ARC
  • Streaming: Bluetooth version 4.2
  • Dimensions: 6.4 x 8.8 x 90cm (HxWxD)
reasons to buy
  • + Premium look and feel
  • + Impressive dimensions
  • + Affordable
reasons to avoid
  • - Sounds may seem muted
  • - Needs more vigor

Are you on a mission to enhance your TV viewing experience but worried about the complexity and cost? Look no further! The Sony SF150 soundbar emerges as a game-changer, offering an astonishing audio upgrade at an unbeatable price. It stands out in the crowd, making it a top pick for anyone looking to boost their TV's sound without breaking the bank.

The SF150 isn't just about affordability; it's about quality and style, too. With its sleek design, this soundbar perfectly complements any high-end TV setup. It's equipped with HDMI ARC and an optical input that supports Dolby Digital, Dolby Dual mono, and LPCM 2ch, not to mention a USB port and Bluetooth 4.2 for all your music streaming needs.

Thanks to Sony's innovative S-Force Front Surround technology, the SF150 delivers a sound experience that envelops you, creating the illusion of a broader soundstage. It's a significant upgrade over traditional TV speakers, offering a gripping auditory experience. While it might not rival the complexity of a full surround sound system, it brings a powerful and immersive depth to your favorite shows and movies.

Although the SF150 shines in many areas, it's worth noting that dialogue clarity could be improved. Those in pursuit of a speaker with a more refined, musical touch might consider investing a little more in options like the HT-A7000. However, for movie enthusiasts and casual viewers alike looking to enhance their audio experience without depleting their savings, the SF150 is an exceptional choice.

Considerations for better decision-making

Sorry, without the specific current article content provided, I'm unable to generate a revised version. Please provide the text of the current article for enhancement.

Selecting the ideal Sony soundbar for your needs

Looking to bring the magic of cinema right into your home without cluttering your space with speakers everywhere? Consider a soundbar as your go-to solution. Sony's range includes budget-friendly options, mid-tier variants, and high-end models, perfect for blending with Sony's Bravia TVs.

Sony soundbars step up the audio game with S-Force Pro Front Surround technology, aiming to envelop you in virtual surround sound. Go higher in the range and you'll discover 4K and HDR passthrough, immersive vertical soundscapes, essential gaming features, Chromecast for easy streaming, and convenient voice control.

For those craving the full cinematic soundscape, select Sony soundbars boast Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support. These multi-directional sound standards are engineered to deliver 3D audio that rivals the acoustics of a cinema, with advanced models featuring upward-firing speakers for that overhead sound illusion.

When picking your soundbar, think about size (will it fit neatly under your TV?), connectivity (does it offer enough HDMI ports for all your devices?), and streaming compatibility (is it friendly with popular services like Spotify Connect, Tidal, Deezer, etc?).

After selecting the perfect soundbar that checks all your boxes, dive into our guide on how to choose and set up a soundbar to ensure you're getting the most out of your new addition to your home entertainment system.

How we review Sony soundbars in Canada

Our state-of-the-art testing facilities, located in London, Reading, and Bath, are where our seasoned in-house review team puts a wide range of hi-fi and AV equipment through its paces.

Each soundbar we evaluate is set up with an ideal reference TV and is thoroughly compared against top contenders in its price range and feature set. Our evaluations focus on direct comparisons with leading products, ensuring that every new item is measured against proven favorites. This comparative approach ensures we always know how a new product stacks up.

Our commitment to impartiality guides everything we do. We meticulously calibrate each soundbar to showcase its best potential before beginning our rigorous testing process. Our review methodology includes exposing each soundbar to a diverse array of films and TV shows, utilizing both cutting-edge and basic audio formats to fully assess its capabilities. We don’t stop at just assessing sound quality; we also explore music playback features across various genres, dedicating ample time to understand each product’s nuances.

Final review verdicts reflect the consensus of our entire team, effectively eliminating individual bias and ensuring comprehensive evaluations. Our independence from PR firms and sales teams reinforces our dedication to honest, unbiased feedback. For years, we’ve stood by our commitment to helping consumers make informed decisions with confidence.

Latest updates tailored for Canadian readers

Revolutionizing Home Audio: A Guide to Excellence

Imagine stepping into a world where every note and sound in your favorite track is crystal clear, where every pluck of a guitar string, every beat of the drum feels like it's being performed live in your living room. This isn't just a dream; it's the reality that cutting-edge home audio systems can offer. In this guide, we'll explore how you can transform your music experience with the best in technology.

Choosing the Right System for You

When it comes to home audio, one size does not fit all. Whether you're an audiophile seeking the ultimate sound quality or a casual listener looking to enhance your listening experience, there's a system out there designed to meet your needs. But, how do you choose? Here's where understanding the basics and knowing what to look for becomes essential. Focus on systems that deliver clarity, depth, and a wide soundstage for an immersive listening experience.

The Power of Connectivity

In today's digital age, connectivity is king. A top-notch audio system is one that not only offers exceptional sound quality but also seamless integration with various devices and streaming services. Look for systems that include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and compatibility with digital assistants. This connectivity enriches your audio experience, giving you the freedom to stream your favorite tunes from anywhere, anytime.

Sound Quality that Stands Out

The quest for perfect sound is a journey worth taking. Delving into the heart of what makes each note vibrant and full of life, the best audio systems reveal the soul of the music. They capture the essence of each performance, transporting you to another place and time. With technological advancements, achieving this level of quality is more accessible than ever. Look for systems that emphasize dynamic range, bass precision, and clear highs for an unparalleled auditory adventure.

Conclusion

In conclusion, transforming your home audio experience requires a blend of knowledge, passion, and the right technology. By focusing on sound quality, connectivity, and choosing a system that fits your lifestyle, you're not just buying a product; you're investing in an experience. Embrace the future of music with a system that brings your favorite songs to life, making every listen a memorable one.

NewsLetter

Get the most talked about stories directly in your inbox

Every week we share the most relevant news in tech, culture and entertainment. Join our community of over 10,000 readers.

Your privacy is important to us. We promise not to send you spam!