Audio Video News

Sonos Amp Streaming Amplifier: $599

The Sonos Amp is a marvel of simplicity and versatility that will enhance and expand any Sonos multiroom music system. In addition to delivering a beefy 2 x 125 watts (into 8 ohms), it supports Apple’s AirPlay 2 wireless platform, enables audio from any source — even a turntable — to be streamed wirelessly throughout the house, and can be pressed into action to power front or rear speakers in a wireless home theater. Reviewer Darryl Wilkinson called the amp a “versatile addition that’s worth every penny for anyone building a multiroom music system with Sonos speakers.”

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Impressive versatility
Easy integration
Designed for shelf or rack mounting
Minus
EQ limited to bass and treble adjustments
Noticeably bright sound with some speakers

Full Review Here

 

Vizio 5.1.4 Atmos Soundbar: $999

For many of us, a full-blown Dolby Atmos speaker system is simply out of the question due to concerns over complexity, space, budget, or some combination of the three. Enter what may be the ultimate compromise: Vizio’s 5.1.4 soundbar system (model SB46514-F6), which delivers a shockingly good immersive surround-sound experience from a four-piece setup comprising a 46-inch-wide bar with eight drivers (two up-firing), two rear satellite speakers (also with up-firing drivers), and a subwoofer. As a bonus, the system supports wireless streaming via Bluetooth and Chromecast.

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Potent sound for the price
5.1.4 Atmos playback
Chromecast built-in for music streaming
Minus
No wireless surround speaker option
No DTS:X decoding

Full Review Here

 

Paradigm Premier 700F Speaker System: $4,700 (as reviewed)

Paradigm, one of Canada’s most formidable speaker companies, has continued its long tradition of building excellent, audiophile-approved speakers with the Premiere 700F speaker system, reviewed in a 5.1 configuration with the Defiance X12 subwoofer reviewer Tom Norton called “phenomenal.” Norton was duly impressed with the crisp detail and dynamic sound the system delivered with movies and music: “I like how these Paradigms grab your attention and won't let go.” Bottom line: These speakers can hold their own against systems costing twice as much.

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Crisp detail
Big, powerful sound
Minus
Tower unstable on thick carpet
Poorly designed grilles

Full Review Here

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