Sony is about to release four sound bars priced from $350 to $1500. The new models include the HT-ST9 ($1500), HT-NT3 ($700), HT-CT780 ($450), and HT-CT380 ($350). The two more expensive models have Google Cast built-in so you can cast your favorite music apps from your personal device to your speakers. You can cast from your Android phone or tablet, iPhone, iPad, Chromebook, and Mac or Windows laptop. By simply pressing the cast icon, you can search, browse, play, skip, and turn up the volume on your favorite tracks directly. Google Cast gives you a wider breadth of audio streaming options vs. standard built-in streaming. Additionally, you can expand the fully integrated home music experience through multi-room functionality by joining speakers together using the intuitive SongPal app. Also, three are HDCP 2.2 compliant (except for the HT-CT380), supporting playback of copyright-protected 4K content.
The HT-ST9 Sound Bar with wireless subwoofer, sound-tuned by Academy Award-winning Sony Pictures engineers for world-class cinematic sound, features immersive 800 watts and 7.1 channel surround sound from seven discrete amplifiers and nine speakers. The HT-ST9 is Hi-Res capable and also supports Spotify Connect. Complete with a wireless, front-firing subwoofer with passive radiator, the HT-ST9 delivers an enveloping listening experience that will enhance any home theater environment.
The HT-ST9 has three HDMI inputs for easy set-up, and brings full-room cinematic simulated surround sound to life with four digital sound fields – allowing consumers to enjoy movies as if in the theater, listen to music as if at a concert or watch sports as if at the stadium. For easy music connectivity, the HT-ST9 offers Bluetooth reception and transmission for a simplified, high-quality music experience. With integrated Bluetooth transmission, enjoy music or movies with Bluetooth enabled headphones while not disturbing the rest of the house. With three times the data transmission capability, Sony’s LDAC technology provides an enhanced wireless listening experience for all music with compatible products.
The HT-NT3 Hi-Res Sound Bar with wireless subwoofer provides flexible connectivity, smart functionality and 450 watts of premium power for rich, high-fidelity sound. The sleek, slim and versatile HT-NT3 delivers a quality 2.1 channel listening experience that allows for effortless, wireless audio streaming with Bluetooth and NFC connections. The HT-NT3 also incorporates Sony LDAC technology. Boasting single HDMI TV connection with inputs for three HDMI devices, the HT-NT3 also offers easy connectivity for superb sound in unrivalled hi-resolution.
The HT-CT780 330 watt 2.1 Sound Bar with wireless subwoofer elevates the home theater experience with elegant simplicity and powerful performance. This sound bar delivers impressive sound with wall-mount versatility. Enjoy superior high-definition quality, including three HDMI inputs with one supporting 4K with HDCP 2.2, and seamlessly connect to 4K or HD devices such as a cable box, Blu-ray player or gaming console. HDMI TV connectivity with Audio Return Channel support ensures simple, one cable connectivity and maximum Audio/Video performance.
The HT-CT380 300 watt 2.1 Sound Bar with wireless subwoofer allows users to simply connect a TV and other HD devices or stream content wirelessly via Bluetooth and NFC. Similar to the HT-CT780, the sleek HT-CT380 is inspired by a flat panel design, complementing virtually any TV or household room, and can easily be mounted on the wall or placed on top of a TV stand or table.
Price and Availability
- HT-ST9 $1,499.99 (July 2015)
- HT-NT3 $699.99 (July 2015)
- HT-CT780 $449.99 (May 2015)
- HT-CT380 $349.99 (May 2015)
benbenkr
June 5, 2015 at 12:29 pm
780 and 380 are basically the same bars as their predecessors, the 770 and 370. The only difference here is the new sub, front firing instead of down firing. There will be less depth, but better tactility and control.