{Photograph}: Ryan Waniata
The sub blends properly with the bar, which takes on the higher register with notable panache for its dimension. You’ll hear some glorious contact to dialog and subtler results, particularly in the course of the sound. The bar isn’t significantly lyrical or exact towards the highest of the frequency spectrum, nevertheless it’s properly tuned and serves its job admirably on the system’s heart.
The System 6 doesn’t totally eschew 3D audio. It helps nearly each main sound format, together with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, and clicking the Soundfield button on the distant or app with supported content material notably adjustments the vibe. The encompass audio system push the sound ahead to nearly mimic “sound objects” for a extra spherical sound. You gained’t hear pointed overhead results like with true upfiring audio system, nevertheless it’s a pleasant possibility. You’ll be able to even see the format change from 5.1 or 7.1 to Dolby Atmos or DTS:X with Soundfield engaged.
I don’t suggest utilizing it for normal encompass or stereo content material, particularly music, which is the System 6’s weak level. Streaming out of your cellphone sounds good for many genres, however like lots of encompass configurations, the system is at its finest when fed cinematic content material, even when it’s simply the chortle observe in a sitcom or a well-mixed sporting occasion.
{Photograph}: Ryan Waniata
Whereas watching a golf event in 5.1, I used to be virtually shocked on the close to visceral recreation of the course’s atmospheric din, particularly the singing hen close to the manufacturing microphones that appeared to take up residency behind my sofa. I had a equally transportative expertise taking part in the brand new co-op recreation Break up Fiction, which served up a feast of potent results, immersive environments, and traceable enemies to assist my spouse and me navigate the panorama.
Sony’s System 6 is extra of a trouble than lots of the finest soundbars, and I’m nonetheless aggravated by my firmware failures. Conversely, for its almost $800 price, you could possibly get a extra conventional house theater setup, like this one from Klipsch. Nonetheless, the System 6 is extra handy and compact than multi-speaker setups, filling its personal area of interest with thrilling cinematics in a enjoyable and approachable bundle. Generally it pays to zig when all people else zags. In case you are after an aesthetic and great-sounding system in your lounge, it is value contemplating.