Nakamichi Dragon 11.4.6 Surround System Review | Slay or Nay?

[@Caleb_Denison]

Hey everyone! Working on the Dragon vs. Sonos now, but have some exciting news to share along with some clarifications: When I mentioned the subwoofer freq. response, this was IN-ROOM audible/palpable response - I did not measure the output of the subs using a microphone and graph them. Your mileage will var, but you will not find better subs in any other one-box package. 2. EQ presets are easily changeable without going into the OSD and then having delay when backing out. A better example would be changing the sub crossover frequency. 3. Nakamichi is implementing independent LFE and bass level controls!!! So stoked to see this update come out, stay tuned! 4. More granular speaker distance settings are coming as well!

[@rsingh5077]

Could you possibly have it for us before August 3rd?

[@digitaltrends]

@@rsingh5077 unfortunately not. The following week is more likely.

[@JuanJose-wt5yj]

Thank you for the clarification. It would be nice if you could do another video with measurements of the unequalized LFE channel vs what you can equalize. Other measurements that would give a lot of information is to see what you have in your room in the LCR channels at least prior to the available settings and seeing your response afterwards with the settings turned on. They should implement more EQ power seeing as they don't have room calibration with mic. Written with translator Regards

[@DanielPorterFriedman]

Question about the subwoofer feet. I have ceramic floors and my current sub with my Sony HTA9 system vibrates and moves. Will I need to get isolation feet for the Dragon Subs or do they come with them already?

[@Caleb_Denison]

@@DanielPorterFriedman The feet have pretty plump soft silicone or rubber pads, so I would imagine it will sit still. But Inwill say that if it doesn’t, no sub will. So an add-on solution may be in your future anyway.

[@user-mw9eo6dl6h]

Would love to see the Sonos & Nakamichi Comparison!!

[@Jumpman67]

Let them fight!

[@scottwallace1]

Hmmm…I don’t know that I need to see a Ferrari Enzo race a Nissan Leaf to be certain of the outcome.

[@johndude2499]

@@scottwallace1😂😂😂😂😂 for real

[@user-mw9eo6dl6h]

@@scottwallace1 was thinking maybe closer to Lexus LFA to a Ford GT either way more content to watch :)

[@AudiophileTommy]

I’m thinking Rolls Royce according to the price !!! It is only a soundbar you know 🙄

[@docuzzie]

Put the Dragon against the Sonos and the Samsung.... I'd love to see that.

[@loudiamonds1217]

Sonos??? This will walk all over Sonos and laugh while doing it.

[@docuzzie]

@@loudiamonds1217 It very well might. I'm looking to get a wireless system, so perhaps the next rendition has ceiling satellites that are wireless. That would be lights out.

[@garretts431]

@@loudiamonds1217 Its more about should you spend double, or more, for the dragon if sonos/samsung/jbl can produce similar results albeit at a lesser quality. Like is it really necessary essentially

[@loudiamonds1217]

@@garretts431 that's just basic audiophile knowledge that ZERO prodcts will procduce double the performance for double the money. The entire industry is about the law of diminishing returns.

[@garretts431]

@@loudiamonds1217 i mean sure as with most things spending more doesnt always equate to better. Buying big but doesnt mean its really that big so-to-speak. based on your response $4000 is not something to consider for things that are lesser in quality but perform admirably enough to not justify $4000

[@stuartgowen9360]

You're the only tech reviewer i take seriously Caleb. Always articulate, consise and honest about how a piece of tech makes you feel. You always give your personal take and never hold back if something doesnt sit right. Keep up the outstanding work....... the dragon is something id love to own but know ile probably never actually see one in person

[@Stiggy771]

You can still order it. I think they're taking preorders in August

[@Mr.HotRod]

Hold your breath. Eventually within 6 ti 10 months a couple of high end audio / video stores will have the Dragon. Maybe you will be close and can see and listen to it there. Good Luck Hot Rod

[@Mr.HotRod]

@@Stiggy771 Naka may have a new order placement for the Dragon a little later on but all the "Limited Edition Units" are gone. Their just a little fancier in their badging of the unit. Basically.

[@michael-4k4000]

Daddy wants a dragon

[@michael-4k4000]

6 underground for life

[@eyeofodin01]

I would definitely love to see this go up against a full blown Sonos set up. I have an arc, two Sonos ones, and two subs. My system already feels insane. I'd really love to know if this is worth replacing it!

[@hessmo]

Sonos, there are always better speakers, unfortunately.

[@MrUpscaleman]

Short answer....Abso effin lutely!

[@Nickname-kf5nm]

I DID have the full Sonos system. Arc, two sonos FIVE, and two sub gen 3. I can confidently say, that the DRAGON is a better and MORE ACCURATE system. The 3d effects and the Atmos are second-to-none. The Sonos system is a phenomenal system! But, Nakamichi took it to a whole new level when it comes to a "soundbar-like" system. MUCH MUCH louder then the Sonos (and still clear/clean sound). That is my take and opinion about the two systems. (and I didn't get to fully customize my DRAGON yet. Literally received it yesterday).Thank you! Spread the Love :)

[@Mr.HotRod]

@@Nickname-kf5nm How did you get yours so early while most of us have t wait and wait? Does it look Pretty/ 😍 Hot Rod

[@MrUpscaleman]

@@Nickname-kf5nm Envy fills my soul....Gonna sell my HT-A9 when I can get one. I think I arrived at minute 46 on preorder day...

[@michaellowry3575]

Definitely need a comparison between the Sonos and Nakamichi.

[@loudiamonds1217]

No we don't. Sonos can't carry the jock strap of something like this.

[@zachkeel7484]

@@loudiamonds1217you’ve literally never even heard it

[@loudiamonds1217]

@@zachkeel7484 I've heard plenty of Sonos. It's not hard to best Sonos. Sonos is for people who think they know what good sound is. It wouldn't be a competition.

[@zachkeel7484]

@@loudiamonds1217why do people think it’s cool to hate on the popular choice? Sonos sounds incredible. Caleb himself said so. If it’s not for you, fine. It makes no sense to be mad about people enjoying something you don’t. It also makes no sense to come to the defense of a sound system you have never even heard. Thanks for admitting that, btw.

[@loudiamonds1217]

@@zachkeel7484 Sonos absolutely doesn't sound amazing. That's the problem. People THINK they sound good. Just like people think earpods and Bose sound good. These are mass marketed electronics sold to people who really don't know, and whom just follow popular trends. Also a lot of rhe cost is just companies recouping their massive marketing budgets on the back of consumers. And as much as I love Caleb and what he does concerning TV's, he's probably the LAST person I'm going to for how speakers sound.

[@ScruffyWarlord]

This is the absolute new King of soundbars that blows away the competition. All HAIL to the new soundbar King!

[@JCATG]

That was awesome! I think the criticisms were valid regarding the sound adjustment 'lag' transitions and the LFE support considering that the Nakamichi Dragon was heavily focused on power and detail altogether for a compact, wireless home theater experience. For a 'soundbar' surround system like this at a relatively premium price which is considerably more affordable than a full bespoke home theater, the Nakamichi Dragon blows the competition out of the water in its class. Thank you for this, man! It was a joy to watch your review of the Nakamichi Dragon. God bless! P.S. I would definitely love to see the comparison between this and the Sonos and Samsung ones!

[@Sunday_Morning570]

Great review as usual Caleb 👍. Please make a comparison video of the Dragon versus the Sony HT-A9 pair with the SW5 subwoofer.

[@MrUpscaleman]

I'm going to have an HT-A9 system for sale shortly :)

[@fredwerza3478]

That's not really a fair comparison since the HT-A9 is only $1800 with the SW5 sub

[@MrUpscaleman]

@fredwerza3478 where? It's 1800 without the sub unless they cut the price drastically. Second, price isn't a unit of sound quality measurement.

[@Mark-py3rv]

Hello from Halifax Nova Scotia Canada again! Great review - I was very pumped to hear your take on the 'Nakamichi' & you never disappoint always mentioning both strengths but also areas for improvement that make sense!! Thats why I remain an ardent subbie & recommend your channel to others looking for a detailed honest take on gear!! Thanx for the effort! you are appreciated! Cheers, Mark

[@dannysmyl677]

Beast setup. Room calibration software (+ mic) would be fantastic!

[@hackztor]

No clue why this was not added. Even a mic port so you can add in a mic would have been better than nothing.

[@stock1019]

Great review as always. Shot up my list if I can ever get my hands on one. I personally would be curious to hear all comparison of the top box systems, including the HT-A9

[@defaultHandle1110]

No sound bar can beat the HT-A9. Anyone not agree ? I’d like to know.

[@stock1019]

@@defaultHandle1110 right!? That’s where I would love to see that thrown in. They say it’s ability to simulate a sound stage is second to none

[@Mr.HotRod]

@@defaultHandle1110 I'm sorry but you are way off base. Did you not watch the now like 10 different videos here on KZbin about the Dragon and how it performs? This Dragon is on a different level that's why it's so expensive but has all the latest greatest high end components, software and hardware. Adjustable and controllable rears. What more could you ask for?

[@RobWaller72]

i was 501st in line for this futuristic system’s limited to 500 release, and I appreciate you solidifying my decision to invest in my hearing and purchasing it as soon as it becomes available again. Your opinion holds much water my friend.

[@frankie_CALB]

I love my Samsung - HW-Q930B/ZA 9.1.4ch, especially since I got it on sale for $999 and couldn’t justify spending $400 more for 2 more channels for the other Samsung system. That said if I had the money and bigger space I would def get the Nakamichi! Looks amazing! As always Caleb, superb review!

[@patricks8876]

I just recently purchased the Samsung HWQ990C for $1000. I am sure the Dragon blows it away in some areas, but to my ears the Samsung sounds fantastic, costs FAR less and I didn't have to wait 2 years to get my hands on it.

[@Sup3riorr]

The most impressive thing at first glance are the ribbon tweeters, they are so revealing and airy by nature

[@lazytomato2320]

The app Nakamichi is coming out with in August should solve the real-time adjustment issues you had. The app looks very current and extremely intuitive/ user friendly…

[@Dub3God]

This

[@williammulvihill5519]

Asked about this before. Hoping you are right and the app lets you adjust live instead of the OSD.

[@fredwerza3478]

It's very frustrating that there isn't a great app for every AVR manufacturer --- I have the Pioneer LX-505 and the OSD is very clunky and hard to use --- it really needs a good app!

[@delskioffskinov]

Could never afford this thing of beauty! Just popped in to see a quality product from a quality channel that's got a quality reviewer! Thanks Caleb for making me want something I could never have, but strangely I always come back for more!

[@stevec6857]

Love to see the Sonos up against the Dragon. HT a9 also.

[@DillonBlair]

Thanks for the review! I’m looking forward to receiving mine. Hopefully the August date they provided is accurate.

[@udayramchander6640]

Great video. Super excited for the product and would love to see a comparison with Sonos. While sonos makes the setup super simple, it would be great if you can post a video on how to get the best setup of the nakamichi, for someone who doesn’t have an in-depth understanding of traditional speaker setup.

[@erikd9045]

I can't wait to receive mine in November! I was lucky and snatched one of the 1000 that sold yesterday!

[@mikemmikem2758]

WOW! Great review. Now it's time to take a nap since you look a litle tired. Thanks for all the hard work on this and all the crew. My only 'complaint' is referring to the Dragon as a soundbar since Nakamichi calls this a 'System.' I've got a feeling that these are going to be flying off the shelves once delivered but that brings up the issue of how long it takes to manufacturer just one of these - ending up with long waiting lists resulting in frustation and impatience on buyers. While there are companies that 'hand build' products ie., McIntonish, Linn et al, all the successful companies have this down to a rocket science and have been doing this for many years using really dedicated and well thought assembly lines. My fear with the new Nakamichi Dragon might be the inability to deliver on a timely basis to meet customer demand. I'll be curious to see how long the waiting list will be and timeframe to actual delivery. Again, thanks for another great video. PS- Maybe the long waiting list will afford some the ability to save up to buy one of these because, let's face, for many the price will be the major determining factor.

[@Caleb_Denison]

Hey everyone! Couple of important clarifications/corrections. 1. When I remark about having to pull out of the OSD to hear the effect of settings changes, using the EQ presets as an example was a goof - I meant o refer to other settings like the crossover point and others not covered by remote buttons that can be switched live. 2. I didn’t explicitly state it in this video, but there are on EQ presets, not adjustable multi-band EQ OR auto-room correction. 3. I didn’t mean the Q900A - Q990B! 4. Toward the end, the wrong B-roll was used when I mention the Klipsch reference cinema speakers. Apologies for that!

[@ScottyR951]

I want you to put them against each other like you said you would if we wanted you to. I want to see that video and thanks for this video and every other video I really do want the dragon but I would love to see you put those to head to head

[@RedfalconX]

I would compare the Dragon to the juggernauts of car audio. JBL 1300X and Sennheiser Ambeo Max/ Plus.

[@kenshinesca]

When I heard you say QN900a I thought wah?

[@harryhouck]

I have the Nakamichi Shockwave. Is it possible to integrate and replace the Shockwave soundbar with the Dragons soundbar??? Will it work correctly with the Shockwave speakers and subwoofers??? If it works, I don’t want to buy the whole Shockwave system, just the bar. Can I buy the Dragons soundbar separately? BTW I just bought the new Sonos system you reviewed but have yet to hook it up.

[@tikitopia]

@Caleb_Denison Thank you for the video review! Apart from sound preferences or decibel capabilities, my question I guess goes more about what would you consider to be a greater value proposition in terms of overall performance and features? a) Sonos' [Two Era300s + Two SubWfs + eArc SndBar + SpkStands] vs. b) Nakamichi's Full Dragon Surround System + SpkStands "...compared with Sonos and all that Sonos does" [implied > that the Dragon doesn't]. What did you mean by that? (and also what would be your answer to the question above, which I'm hoping is able to convey that I'm not talking about having a "sound match" between the two contenders) 🤟

[@robouchard86]

Great review, you and Andrew Robinson are among the best in the industry to give us the real thing. Big thank you. Would like to know, where is the Senn Ambeo MAX position itself now in the soundbar world in terms of sound quality (movie/music) compared to all the new players? I understand that for movies it can’t get the same effect without surround speakers. Is it still interesting, especially at that new low price?

[@halshaw8056]

The Dragon is something that I'd have been all over when I had a really good sized TV/movie room. Considering that even the Q990B was overpowering from the standpoint of the upward firing drivers on the surround channels in my current situation, I can only imagine that the Dragon would be worse in that respect. That said, I still want one.

[@Mr.HotRod]

It is not worse then you imagined. The clarity and precision of all the sound all the time is what sets this Dragon apart from all the rest. It's like having an I-Max in you listening room. Only you control the volume to a normal level instead of leaving the I-Max with your ears bleeding.

[@sobeautifulsrilanka]

Good first review. However, the Dragon also needs to be compared to a non-soundbar system and other high end soundbars. Does it's sound quality justify it's price when compared to the full Sonos system sound quality or a conventional receiver/speakers Atmos setup?

[@petedetraglia4776]

The Dragon will never compare to a full system...EVER!!! If you don't have a large enough room for individual speakers and sub then it may be good but if you do the dragon will only be a puppy!!!

[@Mr.HotRod]

@@petedetraglia4776 Ya, a puppy with 3,000 watts of total power and goes to 125db which will blow your living room windows out. What you been smok'n man? No need to be jealous just because you can't afford the Dragon. Rock On!!!

[@TIMMAYY7]

The Sonos costs more, with just 2 subs..

[@fredwerza3478]

I think it's fair to compare to a AVR + speakers system but only if the total price is similar to the Dragon --- I see some people demanding a shootout with the Sony HT-A9 and that system only costs $1800 so how can it be a fair comparison ??

[@wadimek116]

​​​@@Mr.HotRod125db of tweeter loudness is not big achievement, single horn and 8" paper midrange can hit those and more. 3000w with such a small drivers with minimal sensitivity won't be much use, 3kw for dual subwoofers will crush it as well. Its mostly marketing. Still its probably better than most soundbars

[@randymyers7434]

Hey Caleb! Linus tec just reviewed this and I sent him a mesage saying to update the firmware and to reach out to you a real review man. you are my go to for review man.

[@loudiamonds1217]

I love the comments here about wanting a Sonos comparison, like Sonos can ever compete from a sonic perspective. Just because they are overpriced doesn't mean they actually sound good.

[@godspeedmaximus]

I’ve always heard Bose described like that. Not Sonos.

[@loudiamonds1217]

@@godspeedmaximus Sonos is the new Bose. They are both sonically tweaked in a way that appeals to what people who have no knowledge of how something should sound.

[@generalbystander1631]

As a user of Sonos for over 15 years, including Sonos Arc, I agree that it’s overrated especially wrt its mediocre sound quality. It really is the new Bose. Build quality is pretty good but that’s not enough to recommend it. Music library support is poor and it’s simplicity comes at the expense of utility. The company sucks too

[@atthelord]

Yeah would be good to compare the Sonos, this and the Samsung!

[@andrewchiu6226]

I'm really interested in how the Dragon plays in a room where the rears are against a wall. Yup, definitely want to see this against a ultimate Sonos setup, especially whether the surround sound from the Dragon is on par with or better than the Era 300s. (This would not be a good look for the Era 300s IMO.) Actually . . . I would love to see this puppy against a Sonos setup with FOUR Eras 300s (lol. I know it's not an endorsed setup, but it would still be a lot of fun. I would like to see it matched against the HT-A9 for surround sound; is the Dragon main unit so good that it rivals the true separation offered by a HT-A9 or a discrete system. Out of curiosity, I would like to see it compared with a Sennheiser paired with, say, a pair of SVS or Klipsch subs.

[@HUNGRY_MAN_2XL]

Very happy to see the review. Gotta pick one up in the holiday.

[@James_Archuleta]

Absolutely compare the soundbar systems!

[@aleXtreme_]

Loved the sound demos man, might not give the real impression but the way you explain it makes us go put the same scene and test it out. Keep them coming

[@danielbarakat]

I agree with HDMI 2.1 being the gold standard, but I would have loved a displayport so I can hook my gaming laptop up to it

[@VIDSInsight]

Haha, thanks Caleb for the cassette player reference I also mentioned in the comment for the previous video.🤗👍

[@fonkenful]

There was also a Dragon 3 piece CD system back in the day (late ‘90s). I was in the audio retail trade for a bit back then and got a chance to fondle both the cassette deck and turntable, but never the reference CD player system. While maybe a bit over the top in terms of feature set for my taste, they were built like brick somethings, always worked flawlessly, and sound fantastic to my ears. The highest on the Nak food chain I ever got in my own system was an LX5 cassette and one of the Musicbank CD players.

[@kenpauley9044]

Definitely interested in Sonos VS Dragon. Sonos is readily available and I have other Sonos devices which adds value. If it comes even close to that it could be a good option for me.

[@we8463]

Yes please do that comparison! In addition it would be interesting to see how it measures!

[@Mrsunshine1234]

We most definitely would love to see a comparison of the Dragon and the Sonos systems!

[@bilvah2914]

Been waiting for this review for a while and it did not disappoint ! Might be a specific request but do you think you could compare the dragon against Sony’s HTA7000+ subwoofer + surrounds+ acoustic centre channel OLED ? The Sony ends up being over a thousand cheaper but this still advertises itself as a premium , so would be a great comparison for the dragon I think ..

[@arniesilverberg764]

Useful, informative and most interesting; what else would one expect from the guru of audio! Ty!!

[@mrgold3591]

I had the Nakamichi 7.2.4 and replaced it with the Arc, dual sub, and Fives. This was around X-mas 2022 way before the Era 300 were available and I didn't want to wait for the Dragon. I like the flexibility you can get with audio settings with the Nakamichi system; but, Sonos is extremely easy to use, easy to update software, group additional speakers, whole house audio option, streaming music is easy, IOS tune is simple to use, I can update induvial speakers, reuse old speakers, and also sounds fantastic.

[@ratedtriplex]

How are the height effects? I have a Samsung k950 5.1.4 and sometimes the height effects are very convincing, sometimes I don't notice anything.

[@mrgold3591]

@@ratedtriplex I've noticed it really depends on the how the streaming content is encoded to take advantage of the height effects. Seems not all Atmos channel separation isn't created equal just yet. You would probably feel/hear more height effects with newer content compared to watching something made before 2020.

[@Chris.guzz8]

@@ratedtriplexI have the arc with 2x era 300. I’ve tried sony, and bose and sonos is by far the best at overhead sound effects.

[@jarvis541]

How would you compare nakamichi sound to Sonos sound? Which one sounds better/cleaner

[@mrgold3591]

@@jarvis541 I had the Nakamichi 7.2.4 in my main TV room with LG OLED 77C1. I had an older Beam Gen 1, Gen 3 sub, and Symfonisk bookshelf as surrounds in my office LG OLED 55C1. The much smaller Sonos Beam sounded louder, cleaner, way more bass, easy to use, no brainer to tune/adjust, and had a much smaller footprint for big sound. The wife and I ended up watching more TV in my office because of the better sound system. The Nakamichi had wireless sub; but, the rear surrounds were wired to the subs. It limited placement of the subs/surrounds in my great room and tile floors (dual subs/surrounds on either side of sofa in middle of the room). The sound wasn't balanced and difficult to adjust. Nakamichi would get loud to soft depending on stereo/5.1/Atmos content (soft low sound with commercial audio in stereo to loud again with 5.1 audio with cable TV shows). Zero issue since replacing with Arc, dual Gen 3 subs, and Fives. I have the subs on either side of soundbar and the Five 9-12 feet back behind the sofa. Crisp and very clean sound with all the bass you could want for action movies. Zero issue with the sound changing with audio sources from stereo to Atmos.

[@Mr_Latte_UK]

Deffo do a Sonos comparison BUT also look to add front ERA 300 as well as having rears witn an ARC dual sub combo. Aparently its possible to group extra speakers like that, huh and some have already experimented on YT. Think its fair to assume with SPATIAL audio/music the Sonos is quite remarkable and a large reason to buy into that hardware too, it may be one of the benefits the dragon does not have the magic to puff.

[@bjprendergast8081]

I too have the arc, gen 3 sub and two surround ERA 300's and absolutely love the sound in my theater but it would be interesting to compare side by side to the Dragon!

[@user-qr1dv6ev1y]

Hello Caleb, Thanks for an awesome review video! I am seriously considering pre ordering the Dragon but would Love to see it go head to head with Sonos and Samsung!

[@ilyasdemirci7803]

I was fortunate enough to place my order yesterday and I'm in the first 1000 order (while it was $3499). Now, I have to wait 2-3 months. Caleb Denison, I hope you are right and this thing is worth it. First time, it was your CES video that I saw about this system. And I've been obsessed with it :) Can't wait to get rid of my stereo systems cable clutter!

[@Mr.HotRod]

Congrats on getting your order in. One caveat though we who ordered the 500 Gold Limited Edition run on the 26th of April will not receive our's until September so don't be surprised if it is 5 months on till you get your. Take Care

[@ilyasdemirci7803]

@Mr.HotRod Dang it! :) The website was showing around October. I hope they will find a way to speed up the whole thing. Thanks for the heads-up, though!

[@Mr.HotRod]

@@ilyasdemirci7803 Just letting you know. The original first 500 order was not suppose to take this long either. Rumors are they had to hire a lot of extra workers at the factory and some parts were becoming very hard to get. Good Luck

[@euclidedecastro7534]

same, mine says estimated to arrive sometime in Oct

[@ilyasdemirci7803]

@@Mr.HotRod I have a good news! Well... for me anyway. But I wanted to share my excitement with you :) I just got a UPS tracking number, saying that I should recieve mine OCT 19th. I have butteflies in my stomach 😃

[@richmizner]

I vote yes 👍for a soundbar showdown. And yes, add the Samsung please. Excellent work sir. Seeing a new Digital Trends video after a long day of working is perfect unwinding therapy.

[@heavenlyxtacy]

Love to see the comparison, sonos and samsung. also heard from another channel, that dragon soundbar is the only soundbar which is certified by Dolby for Atmos usually given to AV receivers, soundbars are usually not given atoms certification given to AV receivers, so does the atmos content sound that good?

[@L-NEGRO]

Thumbs up for the sonos plus samsung q900a comparison. Great video

[@Searching4Reason]

I know this run was for 500 units, but really hope they bring more of these. I want to set up a theater room and would love to get these for the audio.

[@Mandooku]

The limited edition is no longer available but the normal dragon will be coming out later this year. No difference aside from the limited edition branding

[@telehortMN]

That is what I am doing with mine when it arrives next month. Still going back and forth on what to do for a display as we have moved into a new house with a light controlled room and haven't decided between 98" tv or 120" ust projector

[@shawnzavoda2050]

@@telehortMN UST for the win!

[@Capybarainahumansuit]

I literally subbed to all today just to see this. I am pumped to watch to see if it's worth it. We're not rich so this is a huge investment. I'll see what I think. Glad your making this.

[@jazeppi]

Whatever comparison you do can you please consider adding the Sony HT-A9 with the SA-SW5 into the mix? Thanks!

[@AudioFileZ]

I grew up reading audio reviews from around 1973 onward. I have always valued subjective sound quality over specs. I think most folks do and you hit this important area pretty square. I am glad to know this use of the Nak brand and, specifically, Dragon moniker is true to the quality of the past components sporting the same. As one who has spent far too much money over the years chasing the best sound I am inclined to actually call this A/V room system "high value" since it offers such high-quality sound processing, fidelity, wireless hookup, and sheer power based on your review. I fell in love with ESS AMT 1B speakers with the Heil Air-Motion Transformer tweeters in 1977 eventually owning 2 pairs. I have Eminent Technology planar hybrid speakers as well as some smaller Martin-Logan systems electrostatic speakers w/ 8" hybrid woofers (2 sets the exact name of which elude me). I think I those folded AMT type tweeters used in this system are very compelling. Even expensive ribbon tweeters have not impressed me more than the folded AMT ones in my Hi-Fi journey. I can fully understand why you were impressed with the clarity and fidelity these tweeters bring to the party. I get the impression that this is the system to match or equal at present and will look forward to your Sonos vs. Dragon review. A great review in my opinion and one that makes me want to hear this system for myself.

[@Yggdrasil42]

The main thing I miss with Sonos is the surround upmix of stereo content (for example KZbin videos). That's what's making me consider alternatives.

[@martinuher3427]

Thank you for a great in-depth video. Comparison with Sonos would be greatly appreaciated. Not just the sound qualities in different situations but also the complexity of setup.

[@michaelbray6499]

Comparison would be super. Being in Australia I’m still trying to work out whether to get this to Australia or give up and buy a q990 or one of the other brands fighting in the same space.

[@benjaminhuang]

Same boat here. If you ever decide to do it, I'd be keen to learn how.

[@izzydealer]

Yes please compare the Sonos and Nakamichi. I have Sonos set up minus the era 300s and thinking of getting the Drgon or the era 300s

[@AlapTrivedi]

Hey Caleb! Love your videos and the content you put out. How do they compare to Sony HT-A9 with SA-SW5 woofer?

[@SynjynB]

Thanks Caleb for the review!!! No doubt this sound bar is a slayer! Does the Dragon best the Sony HT-A9 spatial speaker system in terms of Atmo content?

[@JoseTeran22]

YOU SHOULD DO A COMPARISON BETWEEN THE DRAGON VS JBL 1300X SOUNDBAR

[@cordcuttercam]

OMG YES !

[@JoseTeran22]

@@cordcuttercam ive bought the 1300x jbl wow well worth it trust me

[@jayb9543]

Excellent video Caleb, and pls pls plllllllls do that head to head to head with all three of them, I would love to see the caparison!!!

[@ealanosborne]

Everyone keeps asking me to review the Dragon vs Sony HT-A9 + SW5. Please do that comparison, too, Caleb! 😎🤘

[@MrUpscaleman]

I'm going to sell my HT-A9 when I can get my hands on a Dragon. I had their old Shockwave system and the sound was PHENOMENAL! However, the Atmos sucked, so I got the HT-A9. With Atmos being fixed I expect the Dragon to eat the HT-A9.

[@mikelanier5617]

Many people here thinking the Sonos anything can compare to just the highs of this, considering the Dragon is using AMT folded ribbon tweeters alone is comical. That tweeter design is used in some very high-end floor standing speakers, but I really doubt those same designers ever considered the tweeter used in the Sonos or the Sony 😂

[@Taliseth]

Would love to see it compete against the Sonos, but also other systems like Sony HT A9, Samsung etc, even maybe a similarly priced one with speaker wires for the money. Especially as it claims it's a soundbar that isn't a soundbar.

[@fredwerza3478]

Kinda unfair to compare it to systems like HT-A9 that only costs 1/3 as much

[@jameswarner7777]

Hi Caleb, Thank you for your reviews of the Dragon Beast. No-one (I think including you) seems to have commented about the rotating top of rear speakers. After awhile I figure out that they address my slanted ceiling, which is perhaps unique among sound bar systems. So a cherry on top of my system in the mail. Appreciatively, James

[@spacejaime]

Hi Caleb, another of your always excellent reviews. My concern is the (apparently) infinite set-up configurations. Nakamichi should include a room correction software to set up at least the complete frequency response (speakers' volumes and distance compensation) in this top-of -the line offering. Confused on the LFE shortcoming you mention, as in my Yamaha receiver, the LFE output going to my Velodyne sub covers both the main speakers low end cut-off (80Hz) + the DOLBY LFE signal boost.

[@MaZEEZaM]

Great review, its reinforced my interest in trying to get this in Australia. When you first mentioned the Dragon system, it was looking like the company wouldn't be selling the dragon system in Australia. I'm hoping the level of interest will have pushed them into releasing an Australian socket model. Otherwise, at least the Sonos system might be a good compromise.

[@arjunsamuel]

Would live to see comparison with Sony HT - A9

[@Sas-wk9lj]

He didn't mention Samsung q990b even once! Nor Sony HT A9!! He 'sold' these to us not very long ago.

[@Airbornekiteboarding]

How about comparing the Sony HT-A9 and the Dragon?

[@Cuhulin1]

Another vote for the Dragon/Sonos comparison

[@HarjeetSM]

Would love to see the Dragon vs Sonos. Be interesting to know if for the same money you would opt for a av with separate speakers or the soundbar option, if space and wires were not an issue

[@loudiamonds1217]

For this amount of money or for a Sonos system that has the same amount of speakers, an AV receiver with separate speakers will absolutely walk all over any of the solutions you brought up, and it wouldn't be close. You're paying and INSANE markup for all the wireless technology.

[@milankhanal2460]

The separates you get around the price of Dragon, in terms of performance, yea the separate may perform better....BUT....you would need to monkey around with the room corrections, calibrations. And my personal experience, I always looked for ways to upgrade the separates...so in a way, I end up being never happy with what I have on separates. I had 7.2.2 for about $3500 including a 9 channel Onkyo. To be honest, I didn't really found it to be very immersive (I am fairly new with separates). I spent over 20 hours to calibrate the system alone in less than 2 years. I ended up going with Dragon so I can do basic calibrations/room config and be done with it.

[@loudiamonds1217]

@@milankhanal2460 any decent receiver has room correction and calibration in it. You plug in a mic, run the setup, use an spl meter to level balance the speakers and enjoy. Proper placement is probably the only thing you really have to worry about with separates. And your want to tinker or upgrade wouldn't go away just because this is a soundbar.

[@milankhanal2460]

@@loudiamonds1217 hi, Yes i did the Onkyo’s room calibration and I was not really getting impressive surround, so I did the spl meter for level balance as well! It was a in a dedicated media room so the spwaker placement were ideal. I could have done room eq wizard or something but that was too much for me to learn. What I am trying to say is, separates may not be for everybody, there is a lot of learning to do especially if you don’t have someone around to show you the how-to. That is where Dragon may be able to fill the gap….for someone who wants performance that can come close to separates but with ease of sound-bars.

[@fredwerza3478]

@@milankhanal2460 did your Onkyo have Dirac? Because the Dirac calibration is easy but thorough and gives amazing results.

[@stevelucero7922]

Caleb, kudos to you. You are doing a. great job reviewing products. I usually don't comment much on social media but your reviews really help me deciding if I should upgrade or not. Keep up the hard work!

[@kavithapremi]

Great review! How do you compare this with Sony HT A9?

[@jb7753]

Highly enjoyable review! I'm a sonos user, so seeing a comparison would be interesting, but it seems like it would result in an either / or verdict based on this review.

[@EmblemParade]

There are advantages to running HDMI through your receiver (or Dragon) rather than connecting them to the TV and outputting eARC. For one, TVs won't always pass through all bitstream codecs. LG TVs, for example, won't pass through DTS at all, only Dolby. In such cases it will revert to LPCM. It doesn't necessarily mean sound quality is inferior, but it does mean that the originating device will be handling the decoding. The receiver will just display "multi-channel" or similar. If you want to know exactly what you're listening to, connect your devices to the receiver. Receivers might also do better decoding of spatial codecs, like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.

[@acidangel111]

Not true . My lg g3 passes dts , atmos, dtsX , and has truehd support . Nice try though - I think you meant samsuck 'cough coughing mean samsung

[@EmblemParade]

@@acidangel111 My LG CX does not. I guess it's been added in recent models, good!

[@flim-flammington]

This is probably the peak of Sound bar home theater feel. But at this level you have to really ask yourself if you are wanting THIS high level of quality and pay THIS much for it maybe you just need to think creatively about how you could implement a wired system. Will give you a lot more flexibility over the years.

[@jjo_08]

I’d have to agree at 3k price point you could easily recreate with a wired system and have it professionally installed to hide all the cords, and you would be future proofing.

[@lionelalberts2650]

I have always been a Nakmichi fan, such fantastic equipment.

[@LetThereBeSound1]

This is not the classic Nakamichi brand. This is a Chinese re-badge job. Real Nakamichi company ceased to exist in 1998.

[@scottivlow9962]

Okay Caleb, I hope you read this. After watching your best soundbar for 2023 video. I started doing a search on Amazon today on soundbars for a 7.1 system. There are really just a few out there that include everything and be under a grand. I want to upgrade either in 2024 or 2025 to the Nakamichi Shockwafe Pro 7.1.4. Unfortunately Vizio doesn't make a 7.1 Soundbar bar. However CES hasn't arrived yet so we don't know if they will or won't until then. I'm still planning on buying an LG G3 or G4 Oled 55" when the timing is right. With LG making a better chip in their Oleds that can support more audio channels than my Vizio M series TV with 5.1 audio output. I want to upgrade my Vizio M5.1 soundbar with one with more audio channels than a 5.1. For the record I'm spending money like crazy on building my Adidas apparel collection. Once I'm done spending on clothes. Getting rid of debt first. I can get the Best Buy Credit Card.

[@datdudeinred]

Now send this to Andrew. I love both of you doing playoffs. 🤣

[@fonkenful]

I said much the same thing myself a couple of times, but Caleb might not have the authorization from Nak to do so?

[@KristiWright]

We'll have to buy it in order to review this thing.

[@fonkenful]

@@KristiWright All just wishful thinking on our parts. Some of us would love your take on the aesthetics as much as Andrew’s on the sonics and user experience; “OK, but before I start, here’s what you missed “ 🤭 How are y’all holding up there with the crazy heat the SW is suffering right now?

[@fonkenful]

Oh, we’ll see you at the next livestream shortly, so cheers in advance.

[@fonkenful]

Final brain fart thought of the day; I believe Andrew and Kristi did a recent review of the ARC and Era 300s that might be of interest. Of course, not a head to head A/B shoot-out, but definitely worthwhile.

[@syedhamidi5643]

You know things is great when Caleb is using all the vocabularies.

[@LeezahB]

See!! I think this is why Caleb and Digital Trends were picked for the first review. You can count on them to be fair and thorough. Caleb’s sense of fun and enthusiasm are contagious! (And thanks for the puns. Puns are a lifestyle! Your review just wouldn’t be the same without them!!) I find your caveats fair and helpful. Thanks also for noting your corrections in your pinned comment. Caleb, you did a great job as I knew you would!! I am not in the market for a one-box solution like this, but would definitely still find it interesting if you were to compare it with the Sonos and the Samsung in particular, and maybe JBL and (Updated: Sennheiser!! the other one you mentioned🥹). What about the Sony? I think others looking for this type of solution would really benefit from these comparisons.

[@Caleb_Denison]

I think bringing the Sony A9 back would be a good idea. Oh, and thanks for the kind note(s)!

[@LeezahB]

@@Caleb_Denison Thank you!🥰💖

[@user-wl4ee6id9n]

Hi Caleb, Question, did you only test it with streaming movie audio? Seems like this beast should been tested with a full 4k player with the most uncompressed source? Or do you find it doesn’t really matter ?

[@Bazerk666]

Hi Caleb, That was an awesome review and thankyou for all the work you do. I think we really need the comparison between the Dragon and Sonos, and throw in the Samsung Q990B just for fun

[@taeshelton3785]

I have a Sony HT-A9 with the larger of the two sub options, is this unit worth the upgrade?

[@MrUpscaleman]

I'll be selling my HT-A9 for this.

[@chefjefe68]

Hi Caleb. Count me in for wanting to see the comparison of the Dragon with Samsung and/or Sonos.

[@JamesOKeefe-US]

Always love your reviews Caleb! Best tech review channel on KZbin. Really appreciate all the time and effort you and the team put into these!!

[@joentell]

I'm glad you found the Spatial Audio Calibration Toolkit useful! Awesome review as always, Caleb. Im curious to hear that Nakamichi Dragon for myself. I have a theory that up-firing Atmos speakers are more convincing when theyre behind you or to the side vs when tneyre exclusively coming from the front. Any thoughts on that?

[@blackbushido]

YEEEEEEESSSSSSSSS!!!! I was just wondering about the two of those sound systems!!! I’m wanting to see which one is the very best!!!! Thank you an thank you for your timely response

[@rwilifeandtravel]

Up until recently the only Nakamichi Dragon I knew about was the fabulous cassette I heard playing in my younger years. I did not realise there were other incarnations later. I'd love to hear this new Dragon however I've yet to heard a sound bar that can do a great job playing music. They never sound quite right to me.

[@Mr.HotRod]

If you get to listen to this system it will change your mind.

[@Mr.HotRod]

Hey Caleb: Finally got my DRAGON in my lair. Just under 5 full months. The box and contents' weight are now delivered over 150lbs, extra cardboard so tell everyone to please be very careful (very hard to move around) Haven't started to set it up yet but very soon. I'm planning on ordering the Spatial DVD soon. Just wanted to say THANKS for your help and for Channa's, Ealan's, Joe's and all the others Hope it was worth the wait for me. Take Care Hot Rod Rock - On Drag - On).

[@HellBoundSinner]

I'd love to get this system. I've been watching the Dragon from the CES stuff months ago. My only hesitation for me would be the ceiling stuff for the Atmos effects. Unfortunately, my new place has vaulted ceilings and I would hate to lose out on the experience because of that. I mean for regular 5.1 content and TV and music however, it seems to be a beast so it's a tough call considering it's $3500.00. Anyone out there have one and can comment on the ceiling stuff?

[@Caleb_Denison]

I’ve never tested an upfiring Atmos system in a vaulted ceilings environment, so I don’t know how it would go, I can only guess based on what I know about sound reflection. But I’d sure like to find someone with vaulted ceilings and test it at their place!

[@Mr.HotRod]

@@Caleb_Denison When my Dnagon System Arrives I am going to place it in my living room and it is a little smallish but has about 15' vaulted ceilings so I would be able to give an opinion once I get it set up and running. I'm hoping the rears can be set a little away from the back wall and turned to bounce off of it a least a little. We shall see It sounds like Naka put 80% of their effort in the main unit so I know that it where it will really shine. Hot Rod.

[@williammulvihill5519]

@@Mr.HotRod Definitely let us know. I converted a bedroom into a media room which has a vaulted ceiling and this is the system I am most leaning towards. Since the up-firing rears are angle-able and you can adjust for height I am hoping the right angle and choosing the right height can trick the system to get the same bounce you would on a flat ceiling.

[@HellBoundSinner]

@@Mr.HotRod yes definitely let us know. I would be very interested in how this will work. I know that upfirings are never the best option but the Dragon upfirings with the power output seem like that they can do a better job than other ones with less power behind them.

[@HellBoundSinner]

@@Caleb_Denison thanks for the response!!! Also I am glad you did the review and I was hoping either you or Andrew Robinson would be able to review it. I think you should do comparisons like with the 990C, HT-A9, and maybe even an actual price comparable Atmos surround system with AVR, speakers, etc.

[@DrMarianus]

For those of us who have two rooms, a dedicated stereo room and a dedicated family/theater room, this is an excellent idea. I run a Mac tube preamp in my stereo system with Magnepan speakers and I could not afford, nor would I want to, have an all-McIntosh theater system. Leave the music to a good-quality stereo system and leave the movies/video to this or other good-quality soundbar system.

[@raisul3]

For a system that arguably takes 15 min for it's physical setup it sure seems like a lot of work on the software side. I will wait for the next iteration 😅

[@MrUpscaleman]

or you could just wait for a software update.....

[@Mr.HotRod]

That's fine but you are going to wait a long long time. It looks like Naka was going to wait an see how the 500 sales went and they were overwhelmed so they are going to run the SAME exact set up when it goes into regular production which even that is going to be a while. Right now the rumors are they are set up to run 100 units aa week. Which really isn't that many. Good Luck Hot Rod

[@loudiamonds1217]

You setup the software once and never touch it again... It's like an hour out of your life and then you're done.

[@MrUpscaleman]

@@Mr.HotRod I have connections, let's just leave it at that.

[@MrUpscaleman]

@@loudiamonds1217 maybe you do, but I install updates when available.

[@1BB22]

This is awesome. $3900 is out of my price range. I'll have to stay with Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 Channel Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Soundbar with Dual 10" Subwoofers (Wireless), 4 Rear Surround Effects Speakers, eARC. Which is fantastic.

[@MrBjorn6]

I order the Nakamichi shockwafe SSE Earc will waiting for the dragon. So I replaced my Nakamichi shockwafe SSE 9.2.4 with the eArc version and wow I was blown away by how much of an improvement it was.

[@1BB22]

@@MrBjorn6 What size room? Ceiling type?

[@ryanbaker7404]

LOL, "optical is okay for some side piece devices" had me dying, bro! 🤣💀

[@kiranchhatpar]

Super first review ! Does it have a auto setting option in audio where the bar selects the best audio aound based on content playing ? How is it compared to the sony HT A9 ? I'm aware both are different products in specs but which one would u pick ?

[@barcham]

Nakamichi was one of the best high-end cassette deck manufacturers back in the 1970s and 80s, and they were also called the Dragon. Everyone I knew was into monster audio systems, and we all wanted a Nakamichi Dragon tape deck, but none of us could afford one. I would trust anything they brought to market.

[@HeavySmoker22]

You are aware Nakamichi went bankrupt and the name was bought by a Chinese holding company? Not sure trust in the name is warranted anymore.

[@barcham]

@@HeavySmoker22 Nope, was not aware of that. That information totally relegates any opinion I may have had of the equipment that bore that name in the past to that gear only. I believe the same thing happened with SANSUI, another very high-end brand of the same era. They produced incredible audio gear, but I believe they also were bought out and now produce various low-end products. The days of the true Nakamichi Dragon and Sansui Monster remain relegated to history.

[@mcort86]

Id love for you to compare Nakamichi, Sonos and Sony HT A9!

[@augustusx82]

Bring it. We all came here for the mother of all fights. The FULL SONOS duel sub system vs the dragon and Samsung. We needed this video like yesterday!

[@allenandlaurendarie5607]

All these companies should include a detailed , easy to understand video on how to calibrate for optimum use especially with some of the costs of these systems.