Sony unveils 2020 Atmos and 5.1 cinema soundbar line-up

Sony has refreshed its home cinema line-up with two new soundbar systems, the Dolby Atmos-enabled HT-G700 and 5.1 home theatre HT-S20R.

The HT-G700 is a 3.1 channel Dolby Atmos model, bundled with a wireless subwoofer, that employs the brand’s Vertical Surround Engine to create a sense of immersion. Also compatible with DTS:X, the new model sports an Immersive AE (Audio Enhancement) button, to upscale other sound formats, from 5.1 to stereo.

Sony suggests the listening experience is comparable to 7.1.2 channel surround sound. The HT-G700 also has enhanced signal processing which spreads the sense of surround to a wider area. Connectivity includes HDMI with eARC/ARC, and Bluetooth.

S-Force PRO amplification ensures the soundstage is large enough to partner with flatscreens measuring 55-inches and upwards. The driver array includes a dedicated centre speaker, to ensure dialogue is always clearly heard. Sound modes include Cinema, Music, Voice and Night.

The budget HT-S20R is a soundbar-based 5.1 surround system, with separate wireless subwoofer and two rear speakers. It may lack Dolby Atmos support, but it packs a punch with 400W of amplification cited. Connectivity includes HDMI with ARC, Bluetooth and USB.

The HT-G700 and HT-S20R will retail for £450 and £250 respectively.