If you consume most of your audio-visual content on your smartphone or tablet, a living room soundbar won’t be enough for your listening needs. Sony’s new HT-AX7 fills that bill, promising room-filling immersive audio in a portable package.
The main unit houses two front drivers and two passive radiators, topped by a pair of speaker discs that can be placed behind or in a corner, and automatically pair with the main unit when detached.
Audio sources—whether it’s a YouTube video running on a smartphone, music from a hi-fi system, or a movie on a smart projector—are paired via Bluetooth 5.2, and the HT-AX7 can wirelessly connect to two such devices at the same time . Decoding is only AAC and SBC though, so don’t expect Dolby quality.
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Sony employs spatial sound-mapping technology in its portable audio setup, which projects audio from the front, back, and above, enveloping the listener in surround-sound bubbles. Special algorithms also analyze and upscale binaural audio in real time, and push out and separate sound objects for a more immersive experience.
The compact case comes with a 30-hour battery, with 150 minutes of playback on a 10-minute quick charge. The batteries in each speaker puck are charged by docking them on top of the head unit.
The HT-AX7 Portable Theater System is available now for $499.99.
Product page: HT-AX7
