Sony Bravia Theatre Bar 8
Connections: 1 x HDMI 2.1 in, wi-fi
ARC/eARC: eARC
Bluetooth: Yes
Dimensions (hwd): 6.4 x 110 x 11 cm
Weight: 4.7kg
Far from being the cut-price, compact version of the Bar 9 we were hoping for, the Bravia Theatre Bar 8 is surprisingly sonically compromised and a fair way short of the best soundbars in its price range
For
- Sound has plenty of detail
- The more compact design will better suit some setups
- A good deal cheaper than the Bar 9
Against
- Lack of large- and small-scale dynamics
- Doesn’t fill the room as well as the Bar 9
- Recessed dialogue and vocals
Sony Bravia Theatre Bar 9
Connections: HDMI out, 1 x HDMI 2.1 in
ARC/eARC: eARC
Bluetooth: Yes
Dimensions (hwd): 6.4 x 130 x 11 cm
Weight: 5.5kg
Sony’s new flagship soundbar is a surprisingly big upgrade on its Award-winning predecessor, the HT-A7000, and an even bigger step up from the Bar 8 than the price difference might suggest
For
- Superb clarity, detail and punch
- Impressive 3D audio processing
- Classy, subtle design
Against
- Slightly clinical in its delivery
- Potentially too wide for some AV furniture
- Occasionally over-pronounced deep bass
