Sony adds 360 Spatial Sound Mapping to top soundbar

Sony has issued a firmware update for its flagship HT-A7000 soundbar, which finally brings support for 360 Reality Audio by 360 Spatial Sound Mapping.

To achieve full immersion, users are required to add physical wireless rear speakers to their system, either the SA-RS3S  or SA-RS5.

An alternative to Dolby Atmos Music, 360 Reality Audio brings comparable object-based spatial immersion, with the potential for an all-engulfing sound stage. There are 360 Reality Audio tracks available through Tidal, Amazon Music and Deezer streaming platforms.

360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology uses innovative Sound Field Optimization, achieved via built-in microphones that measure the relative height and position of the soundbar and rear speakers.

The technology creates multiple phantom speakers by synthesising sound waves based on positional information. The technology was first introduced on Sony's HT-A9 speaker system.

Both soundbars already support Dolby Atmos and DTS: X.