Sony announces 360 Reality Audio soundbar

Sony has announced the HT-A3000 soundbar, a 360 Spatial Sound enabled Dolby Atmos all-in-one with a 3.1 configuration (three front speakers plus a built-in dual subwoofer). The A3000 unlocks 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology when connected to Sony’s wireless rear speakers SA-RS5 and SA-RS3S.

The new arrival features the brand’s Vertical Surround Engine and S-Force PRO Front Surround, and is compatible with both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X sound formats.

To aid installation, there’s Sound Field Optimisation which is able to create multiple phantom speakers by synthesising sound waves.

Adding an optional wireless subwoofer that handles low frequencies allows the system to drop deeper. Buyers can add the SA-SW5 subwoofer with 300W of deep bass from a 180mm driver with passive radiator or, opt for the SA-SW3 subwoofer with 200W of sound from a compact bass reflex subwoofer with a 160mm driver.

Also optional are SA-RS5 wireless rear speakers, capable of delivering up to 180W of surround sound, or the SA-RS3S wireless rear speakers with a total 100W. The SA-RS5 sports upfiring speakers for 360 Spatial Sound.

Connections include HDMI eARC, USB, and digital optical audio in. The A3000 can also become the centre speaker in the home cinema system, when partnered with a BRAVIA XR TV featuring Acoustic Center Sync support.

In addition to Chromecast, Spotify Connect and Apple AirPlay 2, there’s Bluetooth and built-in Wi-Fi. The soundbar works with Google-assistant with Chromecast built-in or Amazon Alexa enabled devices.

The A3000 also features DSEE Extreme, which uses Edge-AI to allow for real-time restoration of compressed digital music files.

The A3000 will sell for £599 / €699 when it launches in October 2022.