HT-A7000 w/SARS5 compared with HTA9 and Q990B

[@gb3496]

Thank you for this! Now waiting for the Nakamichi Dragon review... :)

[@paulefc1971]

I had the A9s with SW5 sub and sold them, got the Q990b instead and have absolutely no regrets, to my unturned hearing, the sound (both music and cinema) is much better with the Q990b

[@abhishekkumarrai137]

Hey Paul. How do you find the Atmos/Spatial Audio performance of the Q990b compared to the A9? I am planning to get eighter Q990c or A9, but little unsure w.r.t, the surround/overhead effect. Demoed A9 at home, felt like sound is coming from across the living room. Unfortunately no home demo available for Q990c. In store it sounded very powerful compared to A9 but was unable to understand the Atmos/spatial performance as it was a bug open store floor. What will be ur Atmos specific rating for A9 and Q990b out of 10? For reference, A9 costs around 1500 quids against 850 for Q990c in my country.

[@trainman547]

Way to long of a posting and confusing comparing 3 systems.

[@michael-4k4000]

Why did u sell?

[@devandevil]

The rare reviewer that doesnt stand on the fence, thank you for speaking your mind!

[@cesarperez9164]

Thank you, I have been waiting for a good comparison video between the HT- A7000 and HT-A9. You have helped me make my decision 👍

[@anthonykamyshevich]

And what did you buy?

[@GPigTV]

I was lucky to sample these and the Bose 900 and Arc in a department store, with full intention of buying the Bose. That was until I heard the Samsung Q990B! The difference can only be described as going from a great enhancement to your TV sound, to experiencing something very close to going to the cinema. No contest for me personally and I’m now enjoying the Q990B at home with my Panasonic UB820 sending a dedicated True HD sound channel.

[@theforeignerinamerica1817]

What about the HT-A9

[@giorzatore]

I have it too .... phenomenal ... I ask you something, Alexa doesn’t work for me, I’ve tried them all but I’m not able to make it work. I have read on various forums that it is a frequent problem

[@dhruvwali]

I was in the exact same boat. Was looking to buy the bose 900 sound system or the sonos arc sl system for ~$3000 . Just happened to listen to the Q990B in the store and was blown away by the sound. Couple that with the fact that the Samsung Q990 costs ~$950 new in India - the choice was a no brainer. Very happy with the Samsung Q990b with no dropoffs or issues.

[@lakshya2008]

@@dhruvwali How much did you pay for 990B in INR and from which shop?

[@michaelbeckerman7532]

One thing that isn't touched on here about the HT-A9 is its unique ability to be entirely optimized even when you can't place all four speakers into an idea position within the room. With the Sony, because of its simple optimization sequence that can be run at any time, you have the flexibility to reposition those speakers based on the need to do so as room arrangement/conditions change. One speaker can be placed higher or lower than another and one can be closer than the others and it won't even matter. You don't need to have optimal physical placement with the HT-A9 to get optimal speaker performance. Now, you may not think that's not important, but with the HT-A9, having that flexibility means that you can easily repurpose that entire setup into a different room within your home in a matter of minutes, if needed, at any time - even one where you don't have the ability to put the speakers into an idea position with respect to height and distance from the viewer/listener. I know no one ever likes to think of these types of audio systems as being "portable" but they really should, at least when thinking about the HT-A9. Having the ability to quickly and easily relocate the entire HT-A9 system into a different room within the home in just a matter of minutes (or to even take it over to a friend's house for the night) without any loss in audio performance or spacial imaging at all due to different placement of speakers adds a tremendous about of value-add that other systems just can't even come close to offering. The more you look into the capability and flexibility of the HT-A9, the more you realize that it's just simply in a category (and a class) all by itself. Is it expensive? Absolutely. Is it worth every single penny of what you pay for it? Unquestionably.

[@neverenoughtech]

I’ve touched on that on two very recent reviews. This was more condensed but probably deserves a shoutout nonetheless

[@HakeemTheDream616]

How is music on the system?

[@TheDashitha]

I purchased A700/SR5/SW5 + A95K almost a year ago and been using. I have no regrets at all. Sound mapping and surround sounding is been amazing. I would give this system 8 out of 10. Simply amazing ❤

[@CarlosPerez-eb5er]

Thank you for another entertaining and informative review. Why does it have to be so complicated? And expensive. I am of a certain age and 0:02 all I want is clear naturally sounding dialogue. Been through at least half a dozen sound bars with no luck. Did hear the Sony A95K tv on its own and was shocked at well it performed on its own. Headphones and subtitles till the next great revolution. Hope I’m still here.

[@Gubers]

I have the Sony ht-a5000, sw3 sub and rs5 surrounds. I have to admit that it doesn’t quite sound right out of the box. But once I updated firmware, nailed the settings and completed the 360 spatial mapping, it was fantastic. My living room is not huge, maybe 15x30 and the volume is more than enough for my space. The best part about the setup is how magical the spatial sound mapping is. Despite my 77” Sony OLED being tucked flat on a wall into a corner with another wall opposite that comes out 2’, I still experience what seems like a perfect sphere of sound from Atmos and 360 music. It is kind of incredible, really. The volume gets way louder than I need for the space as well. And the sound field feature somehow melds together the sound coming from all the sources including the sub. I mean, there’s still separation. The sound just seems to be synced perfectly and flows around and between different frequencies. I don’t know how they do it, but it is impressive. Even the much smaller and cheaper SW3 sub is amazing. Like, seriously, I’ve never experienced a sub of that size that was so responsive and punchy but also capable of going deep and shaking the walls. Sony does some kind of sorcery with their spatial mapping tech. And I totally recommend the a5000 setup. I know nothing about the a7000 though. Perhaps it’s just an inferior soundbar despite being the flagship 1up. I dunno. I have been blown away with the setup. Every time I put on a UHD Blu Ray with a solid Atmos or dtsx soundtrack or play a surround mastered game, I an so pleased. The Ghosts of Tsushima wind for example blew me away with the wind effects. No pun intended. I have to wonder if maybe there was something wrong with certain firmware or even batches of the Sony soundbars. I have seen so a lot of positive and negative feedback on those bars. That all said the Sony ht-a5000 is on sale right now at Costco for $500. It is steal IMO. But I do very much recommend the RS5’s and SW3 to get the full spatial tech impact. Without the spatial tuning the system definitely does not sound as good as others. But with it on, the surround effects are very good and probably too dog in that realm.

[@oralmd]

I have no idea what peer reviewed certifications you have obtained prior to becoming an internet product expert, but you are the funniest person on the internet. If tech wasn’t your passion, you could easily write for SNL, at least the Weekend Update segments. Godspeed.

[@markdyer2580]

My new Q990B will be delivered tomorrow. Looking forward to setting up, having a play, then sitting back to watch a movie... and hopefully being blown away with the sound experience

[@MRSTEEL15]

So how is it?

[@jasmadahar9089]

I just love these reviews. Personally I think the A9’s are just something else. I demoed these at my local store and was just impressed immediately by them. I run a Ambeo and, whilst certainly louder and fuller, if I replace the Ambeo, I’ll purchase the A9’s. I totally get what your saying about the integrated sound and the difference it gives you.

[@michael-4k4000]

Set up The Q990c last night, this was technically my first sound bar, I did have a couple of Bose life style systems and this sound bar blows them away. It is not as good as my Kef Q750’s and 5.1.2, as the bar, as all bars I’d imagine, lack the mids of a full range speaker. The Q990c is an amazingly fun and engaging sound bar, it shines with an Atmos sound track.

[@JagadishTalluri]

Great and rare Video. I agree with you. I have Sony A95k and Sony A7000 + SW5 + RS5. The Tv is awesome but the sound bar system is just above average. I thought together they would rock due to Sony's ecosystem but No. And the centre channel on TV is a gimmick. It works but not great, no synergy. I tried both A9 and A7000 , I noticed the A7000 is 25% more louder.

[@GCharlesE]

Man, and my experience is the exact opposite. I have a 77" A80K, and the center channel is an incredible upgrade to the sound as a whole. I absolutely love this system together!

[@Gubers]

You doing something wrong. 77” Sony A80 with S channel using TV as center speaker. It is amazing and makes sound coming from sources in the TV like people talking and such sound like it’s coming right from the actual subject on screen. Maybe it isn’t working for you or you need to update firmware. Or maybe the acoustic surface tech is just much better on the OLED models. Could also be the size of TV. I can tell you that in the A80J 77” the TV speaker is the best I’ve heard on a TV. The higher frequency range is so clear coming from it and the kids are surprising present l.

[@jason_mc77]

I have the HTA-7000 system you describe and I really think it was designed to only play nice with Sony TV's. It sounds great on the Sony A90J but hearing it hooked up to my Samsung QN90A or LG G1 just sounds awful, even after a complete reset with multiple HDMI cables used; it just sounds tinny, sibilant, and hollow. Conversely the Samsung Q950A bar sounds fine on the LG and of course the Samsung, but not great on the Sony TV. I really think it's the chipset used in the Sony bar and I'd be curious to see if a different one was used in the HT-A9. Edit: I do think the Ambeo MAX is still the best sounding bar out there, though, I am curious to experience the new Nakamichi Dragon surround sound system

[@HPMIKE55]

Great job and love your humor! 😂👍

[@Suroky232]

I purchased the A9 to go with my Sony 65" A90J tv and it is awesome at "high volume" only, However, day-to-day viewing at low to medium volume was poor, hence i returned the product. I came from a dedicated seperates setup, which was a wonderful experience at any volume. If you can whack up the sound without having to worry about neighbours and alike each day then go for it. In my view, the immersion and sound quality was lost at low to normal levels and i definitely missed the dedicated centre channel even when using the A90J.

[@mingomane1]

What did you replace them with?

[@Suroky232]

@@mingomane1 I am still waiting for that 'one' system. I will test out the new Nakamichi Dragon 11.4.6 that has good early reviews at CES, and wait to hear the new Arc from Sonos in 2023 perhaps?

[@S1mmz]

Yeah, agree with you on that one. Also why spatialness isn't everything. I'd take sound quality from Sennheiser without rears any day over the A9'S as feels more cinematic even though it's not a full 360 bubble. I reckon Sonos will release Arc V2 this year, then their new multi directional rear speakers, so one to keep an eye out on.

[@mingomane1]

@@S1mmz have you tried the A9? I personally would much rather have “surround effects” over having sound quality with fake surround. I will probably end up going with a 990b-950a or get the cinema 1200.

[@S1mmz]

@@mingomane1 Yeah, I've owned full Sonos arc setup, Samsung Q990B, Sony HT-A9 and have the Ambeo now. Not on about the virtual sound itself as the center channel on Sony is also fake sound with how you put it ... The actual sound quality itself that it produces is just miles ahead of the rest. Sennheiser should ideally release rears, as should Sony release an extra dedicated center.

[@Eric-lw4ih]

i was very bigly in anticipation for this video

[@driveby629]

Really nice review and follow /round up of all that you’ve learned

[@WillPlato]

This is awesome and thank you for doing this comparison. A few weeks ago, I went and purchased the full A7000/SR5/SW5 setup and have been completely underwhelmed with the immersion in a very modest living room setup. Interestingly enough as I get closer to the return cutoff date, I took the system outdoors for a project movie night and was very pleased with the performance to the point where it seemed like I was getting more "atmos" and rear sounds watching the same content outdoors versus inside. Regardless, I am looking for that 360* sound field but have been fighting between the HT-A9 and the 990B so thank you for providing your opinion and persuading me. Sony thanks you.

[@wasswass383]

Bonjour j’hésite entre le ht a9 et le q990b vous avez un avis ??

[@mingomane1]

I would go with the A9. Seems like it had the best Atmos performance in the sound bar game

[@yvanokuba1649]

@@mingomane1 problem is that it lacks a dedicated Center channel

[@quikeism]

HT-A9 is the way to go. The immersion is amazing.

[@mingomane1]

@@yvanokuba1649 most reviews say it doesn’t matter. Sony has worked its magic.

[@jeremytilden-smith3275]

I just want to say thank you Daniel for your brilliant soundbar etc. reviews. I've loved all of them. I've been agonising over what to replace my JBL SB with and keep on coming back to the A9 with the SW5 sub or the Samsung Q990B or C. Even though it's twice as expensive I think I'm going to have to go for the A9s just because of the X factor which keeps on making you return to them. If you want the best, or most Wow factor, then you sometimes just have to pay for it...

[@neverenoughtech]

Appreciate the comment! Hope it works out - X factor is a good term

[@randomname9758]

Great review. Nice to see you making new enemies as you go along. 👊

[@rafars2246]

Man, not to sound weird, I am married and all that stuff. I don't know what it is, but I watch your videos and I feel so comfortable, like when I was a kid watching some tv shows, like if you were my best friend, I don't understand. I think is your sense of humor and your editing, those little music clips hehe

[@neverenoughtech]

Well I’m glad to hear I might be best friend material 🙂

[@greeshma6948]

I was waiting for this comparison thank you so much sir

[@TanujRoy]

Thanks for making this detailed comparison video

[@prasaddlegend]

Bought myself q990b n boy it’s amazing…!!!….. still curious to listen to a9s..😅

[@nishantrana2440]

If you don't mind me asking, for how much and from where?

[@prasaddlegend]

@@nishantrana2440 Bought it at reliance digital for 80k..!! Crazy deal

[@nishantrana2440]

@@prasaddlegend lucky man, deals like that don't come along very often. Having any disconnection issues? manufacturing of your bar if you have that info on hand would be nice to have as well. Cheers and thanks for all the info!

[@prasaddlegend]

@@nishantrana2440 I do feel sub getting disconnected a few tyms….. but dat was wen I was using airplay….. guess Wi-Fi signal frequency issues….. but nothing via earc cable👍🏻

[@NaniKiran88]

@@prasaddlegend Hi Prasad garu , I am planning for q990c , could you please tell me your long term opinion on this system ?? Thanks in advance!!

[@stevieg3078]

Thank you...I always enjoy your take. I'm so tempted to get the Sony A9....and not spend $5k for a 5.1 separate component system with a center speaker.

[@neverenoughtech]

The A9 is special … if you also get the sw5 - can’t skip on that

[@stevieg3078]

A9 with big sub $2k or Definitive Technology (2 D17 towers/2 D7 bookshelf/D5C center/DN12 sub) $3k + a receiver. Thanks. @@neverenoughtech

[@karthikr177]

I still would go with the samsung. The total cost of this system is $2800. Which is like more than 2XQ990B. Or i also would rather save a bit more as i wait for the release of the nakamichi dragon.

[@1410pdt1410]

What stops me from buying the ra5s is the proprietary charging. Why couldn't they just use USB c... In between jbl 1300x and the Sony a5000 because I have no space for plug in rears and the battery option fits my needs.

[@jacklingenfelter7765]

excellent video, appreciate your honest opinions ! bravo

[@lordmxm]

I’m now watching the “fight” review with your top 3 for 2023! 👍

[@neverenoughtech]

I tried not to stress myself to the grave with that one

[@glenanderson9282]

Great review and video, as usual. As much as I’m a Bose fan, there’s no denying it’s expensive and underwhelming rears. As for Sony… cloth on any soundbar is just offensive to anyone that doesn’t dust on a daily basis (present company included). However, Sony has always been the Toyota of sound.. a solid and reliable performer. I’m very much considering switching out my Bose 700 setup for the Samsung, but the speaker connection and dropout problems reported on the q990 is making me pause. Nobody needs the frustration of a sound bar not doing all it should and do it well.

[@neverenoughtech]

I didn’t have drop out issues with any of the units this round of testing … I’ve had the least problems with the Q990B … though I don’t doubt others are having issues

[@jarvis541]

I’m now convinced anyone reporting that issue with the q990b is just the router and they don’t know

[@kjartanB]

Never had any drop outs with my Samsung

[@paulefc1971]

I've had the Bose 900 with base module 700 and 700 surrounds,, the rears weren't very immersive at all although they were very good at discrete rear surround- which is ultimately what they are designed for, I sold them when I could eventually get the Sony HT-A9 with SW5 sub, I was completely underwhelmed by the Sony system and suffered horrific drop outs, I also do not like the lack of tonal adjustment either, meaning some genres just sounded awful on them, I now have the Q990b and it's much better then the Sony A9s and more on a par with the Bose system, although the surrounds are much better and Atmos is a lot better as well and I've also had no dropout issues with my Q990b in the four or six weeks I've owned it

[@LIMuscleBlackdevil]

Great, now make an A9 system with a center channel speaker and you'll have a really nice 5.1.4 set up. Maybe offer a better subwoofer option and the ability to pair 2 subs and it would be great.

[@Anthony-kz6wf]

Don't always agree with you but appreciate your opinion and not standing on the fence. You do very good reviews and thank you for putting in the time ⏲️!! I have the bose 700 soundbar and surrounds and very happy with them. When I up grade, looking at the A7000.

[@neverenoughtech]

I appreciate you sharing this. Best of luck in your sound journey 👍

[@willykyu]

EXACTLY what i was looking for. I can’t make up my mind between those 2 ! Thank you. I heard a big demo of the Samsung and I hated it. So agressive. No mediums. No subtlety. So I’m much more interested by the Sony ones (ht-9 or 7000) I listened to a little in a store, with a sound and bass I largely preferred. But I’m super interested by your arguments.

[@gabrielpitz1689]

Hey Daniel. Great update on the A7000! The immersion of the A9 is really hard to beat. As good as other soundbars might be to me, & this is my own personal issue is that it would always seem like the sound is coming from the bar instead of all around you. If that makes sense! lol. That's what I love with the A9. Having said that I'm really interested in the Nakamichi Dragon & would love to see you review it & compare to the A9!! Cheers!

[@neverenoughtech]

Agree with you. Had a section where I said I don’t think a traditional SB system will be able to outdo the A9 in the spatial realm and probably can’t win my fancy. Didn’t want to commit to that bias on video. The dragon is really interesting - it easily looks like the best SB system but it’s reducing the number of discrete speakers - so that is nagging me that in channel separation it could easily be a step back and we’ll be losing something - though the dragon looks like it’s built to sound soooo much better than the 9.2 … just wish they included another set of rears for the 3500 - maybe in the future …?

[@gabrielpitz1689]

@@neverenoughtech Good point on the Nakamichi. It would have been interesting if the Dragon had four separate speakers like the A9. I know the Samsung & the new Nakamichi will probably sound better sonically than the A9, but won't beat the immersion. I wish the A9 had a tone control to adjust the sound to give it a little more warmth.

[@MrBjorn6]

@@neverenoughtech I was wondering if you wanted to add another 2 of the 9 pounds upwards firing rare speaking at your expense if you wanted to?

[@nayanchiplunkar4145]

Sir iam already having sony ht z9f 5.1 dolby atmos soundbar. 1. Pls suggest it is required to upgrade 2. If yes then which is best sony ht 7000 or ht A9 or samsung 990C. Regards

[@BogdanGrigore]

I love the Sony A9 with Tidal songs with Sony 360 reality. It’s magical!

[@neverenoughtech]

I agree for most tracks but I find that it gets a bit fatiguing after a while due to all the extra processing

[@GCharlesE]

Is Tidal worth it?

[@BogdanGrigore]

If you have Sony HT-A9 for sure. I’ve tried deezer and has less sony reality tracks and Apple Music with Dolby Atmos is not that amaizing. Try a trial month.

[@GCharlesE]

@@BogdanGrigore I have the A7000 with RS5s with 77"A80K as center channel. I must not be as much as an audiophile that I thought I was lol. Because I think the combination sounds incredible! Thanks for the response! I'll give it a shot. I'm sure it's awesome through earbuds too!

[@shmookins]

When do you think the A9 will be updated with a new model? Sony seems to update their headphones and earbuds every 2 years, recently. But I don't know how they treat their home sound products.

[@neverenoughtech]

I don’t have a good read on the update plans for A9 - maybe 3 year - sometimes products don’t get renewed especially if they’re a little experimental. Hope that isn’t the case

[@muhammadwasim9861]

Really liking your videos. 👍

[@gb3496]

So if you listening habits were 70% music, 30% movies... which of these three would you pick...?

[@neverenoughtech]

The b

[@TheCdM1981]

How’s the A7000 function with the Sony center stage feature when paired with one of their TVs.

[@TheWanderingGoenkar]

I’ve been using a traditional 5.1 system with a receiver ( Pioneer receiver with a Sony AZ series speakers and woofer from the early 2000’s. I’m looking to upgrade to a sound bar and I’m confused with all the mixed reviews. Which sound bar or speaker system would you suggest as a first time user switching from a traditional speaker setup to sound bar ?

[@paulefc1971]

Q990b all day, every day..... Although it doesn't beat having a proper AV receiver with proper height channels

[@revotuberacer]

Very cool video. Still, I still don’t know why reviewers keep comparing the A9 to regular soundbar systems.

[@neverenoughtech]

Simple - it’s targeting the same market and “soundbar” customers want to know how the sound varies

[@revotuberacer]

@@neverenoughtech I get that but still, those customers need to realize that they are interested in two different types of systems and I believe most of them don’t understand this. While a soundbar system features a bunch of speakers jammed inside the same structure (which bu the way does affects dispersion/soundfield to a certain extent.), the A9 features individual speakers (making it more versatil y giving you the beneficial option of choosing the right placement for each channel. They are two totally different systems. To me, that channel separation benefit alone makes it an unfair comparison. The A9 belongs to the Home Theater in a Box category, not the soundbar category. You know what I mean? I found out about your channel a couple of weeks ago and I’m really enjoying it. I also appreciate your effort and time to elaborate/put together such a good video.

[@akhilthota9262]

have Sony A80K, between Samsung Q990c and Sony Ht. A7000(with sub and rears)which is best given that q990c does not support q symphony and Dolby Atmos for sony tv

[@neverenoughtech]

The C - just plug into the bar sources you want atmos

[@akhilthota9262]

What features do I miss if I paired with Sony? Does C performs better than A7000 even lack of Q symphony?

[@joshdimovski4483]

​@@akhilthota9262Samsung soundbar controls won't be available through the Sony tv , probably the only thing I can think of .

[@Marseillais98]

Have the HT-A7000 system with the SA-RS3S and SA-SW5. As I also like to only listen to music, I was thinking on switching to the Sonos Arc with Sub Gen3 and Era 300. Do the SA-RS5 really sound that nuch better as everyone says, so that listening to music isn't as "painful" as it us right now? Unfortunately the Sony lacks in the option for setting up the sound like Sonos offers.

[@shaq6772]

can you please say if the system (bar and sub) works at 240 volts?

[@ntj2200]

Forgets a very important fact about Sony soundbars. Its compatible with ALL known sound codecs, and not just the new ones, so if you have a lot of older DVDs, even theese will sound diecent, and not just a seudo stereo sound picture.

[@simon8129]

Hi, I have a question which soundbar has better sound, Sony ht a5000 or Bose 900? You are the best judge since you have already tested both. I am faced with a difficult decision. I would like to buy one of them. At the moment I am leaning towards the bose 900. Please reply, thank you very much

[@neverenoughtech]

Never heard the 5000 but based on listening to the 7000 and 900, I’d go 900

[@simon8129]

@@neverenoughtech Okay, thank you very much for your help and the quick answer that made me decide to buy the Bose 900

[@Neilando]

Really hope Bose make some battery operated rear speakers like the Sony ones…. Seems like a great idea for Bose

[@neverenoughtech]

I am not diligent enough to keep up with battery powered speakers. Either they are always powered or never powered … Am I alone on this?

[@Neilando]

@@neverenoughtech I believe they can be plugged in for use and then also be unplugged and placed somewhere else for 10 hours of playback on battery life they claim. So can be moved around easily without wires for when you watch a movie then put back wherever the plug is to charge back up and will still be in use just maybe not the optimal location while plugged in.

[@sayimpu]

hey Dan. Im interested to buy HT a9. So, I watched your two lengthy comparison videos :). Really appreciate you taking time to explain everything in detail. Im from India and I found a good deal on Q990C ($960) and A9($1960). My first preference is watching movies with good surround effects. Which one do you suggest-Q990C or HT A9? Have you heard any news about A10 :)

[@neverenoughtech]

For surround effect it’s the A9 but the sub is a must for sound integrity. No news on the A9 followup - will probably be a few more years … and it’s experimental kind of so hopefully Sony feels it’s worth iterating on

[@sayimpu]

@@neverenoughtech Thanks Dan. You are the best 👍🏻

[@sayimpu]

BTW, $1960 is for both A9 and SW5

[@pranavxavier291]

​​​@@sayimpu hi ..i am too looking for the same (in India ❤). Did you pull the trigger on either one of them.let me know your experience..q999c available at around 72k ish and a9(standalone) at 90k ..what do you suggestt

[@sayimpu]

@@pranavxavier291 a9 is better compared to q990c. A9 Demo is available in most of Sony centres. For me its bit bright but good for sarrounds. I liked Sennheiser ambeo's sound compared to q990c and a9. It's clear and smooth if you compromise on sarround effects. Go for the demo and decide.

[@Turtlemilk]

When I turn on the soundbar, will it automatically turn on the rs5 rear speakers ? Or do I have to turn each speakers on one by one ?

[@neverenoughtech]

Auto activate the rs5 - I never remember having to turn them all on separately over and over again

[@paulodekkers5075]

For me the HT-A9 SA SW5 combo is a huge step forward coming from a SONOS setup that had a soundbar two SONOS ones and a SONOS Sub. But how low the base goes is a bit dissapointing. Is there a better external Sub possible thats compatible with the HT-A9? The SA SW5 is lacking.

[@neverenoughtech]

Nope - it would be nice if it supported two subs though. In general the consumer electronics audio choices often provide good enough subs not traditional home theater level - part of the give and take

[@bigben9056]

@@neverenoughtech nah,you can hard wire a good passive sub with no problems

[@angzander8536]

Hello, nice review! Are you able to review the citation 1100 sound bar?

[@abhishekkumarrai137]

Hi Dan, I am a subscriber of your channel and find your reviews really helpful and witty :) I currently own a Sony HT-ST5000 and planning to upgrade primarily to get the rear speaker experience and an elevanted Dolby Atmos/360 spatial Audio. Little torn between Samsung Q990C and Sony HT-A9 with SW5. Though in terms of power and sound, I am convinced with Samsung but little confused with the Atmos/Spatial Audio experience which seems Sony is better at. What makes me more confused is the pricing. I am getting the Q990C for GBP 850 and HT-A9 with SW5 for GBP 1,500. Is the HT-A9's surround/spatial experience worth the difference? Hoping to hear your thoughts before closing as I am unable to get a proper demo of the Q990C as opposed to Sony which has dedicated experience centres. Thanks!

[@neverenoughtech]

I think it’s really tough to endorse the A9 at that price difference - I think the A9 maybe wins out if you are particularly interested in Atmos performance and the two systems were the same price - which they’re not

[@warpathh]

You need the Sony TV to get that sound height. Without it, this is not much of a test comparison.

[@neverenoughtech]

If true (which at most is partial) sounds like a Sony problem and they deserve more shade

[@warpathh]

@@neverenoughtech "more shade"? What a troll comment. Easiest unsub I've made lately. Not a surprise you have so few followers, with trashy, low-IQ comments like that.

[@jackjefferson3980]

This. My A90J coupled with this sound bar and a sub gives an incredible immersive experience. I got rid of my Sonos setup after getting it. I need to get those new RS5 surrounds.

[@jackjefferson3980]

@@warpathh yeah he seems like he would be.

[@wowclassicpugsignup9173]

A7000 and A95k = incredible. I keep the surrounds plugged in though. It is more reliable.

[@stanleyheart1825]

12:31 That’s not correct… my Sony HT-A7000 has a built in mic and voice control assistance. “ALEXA”

[@piqone1]

Have you revised the RS5s since the firmware updates for both the A7000 and the RS5s

[@neverenoughtech]

I don’t have those on hand anymore - I don’t think they would have changed my opinion in the video

[@piqone1]

@neverenoughtech well thanks for the reply. I've heard the update changed a lot and boosted the rear sound quite a bit. Just wanted to know if you noticed the same.

[@volcalstone]

I wanted this Sony setup but it's too expensive for only being decent to great. I passed up on the Samsung setup as well even though it could've been had for $950. I'm wanting to upgrade my JBL Bar 9.1 to the Bar 1000x or 1300x instead now. What are your thoughts on those? I just wish the soundstage was wider on those but I guess that's what the 1300x side firing speakers are for.

[@neverenoughtech]

I’ll be sharing thoughts on JBL sometime soon … if I can get my 5h!+ together

[@lordmxm]

You broke my heart with what you said about Bose but I forgive you because I handed down my Bose system that dissed them to my Son and now I have the Samsung Q990C paired up with a Neo QLED!

[@neverenoughtech]

Tell Bose to at least get some proper surrounds - I hope your son carries the light for you

[@RyanCoatta]

Love your videos, really great work. I'm wondering if you can (or if you have already) tested the Q990B with the rear speakers in the front orientation? I would love to hear your opinion of this. This is a somewhat unique feature that I haven't seen offered by any other setups. While it might not be ideal, it gives people the option to widen their sound stage if they don't have a room orientation to accommodate good placement of the rear speakers - for example, people with their couch right against the back wall. I was personally planning to wall mount the speakers on my side walls behind the couch, but I am questioning if side wall mounting will eliminate the side firing speakers. So I'm weighing the pros and cons of the front-rear speaker orientation, from both a room aesthetic and a sound stage/surround sound perspective.

[@neverenoughtech]

That is an option that I keep failing to test. I have a video I’m brain storming where it might make sense to provide a little commentary on that

[@noobinitas]

I have the A7000/SR5 and SW5 currently, can the HTA 9 be added to that so they can work in tandem with one another?

[@joshdimovski4483]

No

[@qj1247]

Thanks for this. Have you been in touch with Sony or do you know if they will bring out a user EQ adjustment option anytime soon?

[@neverenoughtech]

no haven't bugged sony about this yet. Seems the more complicated the sound processing the less they want customers to mess with it as a general pattern

[@Youtubeuser1aa]

HTA9 is sometimes insane. Sounds coming from places where there are no speakers.

[@HakeemTheDream616]

How is music on the system?

[@Youtubeuser1aa]

@@HakeemTheDream616 its ok, not great.

[@HakeemTheDream616]

So I have a HT 7000, and I'm thinking of upgrading to the hta9. I am a big music lover though so would you recommend me getting an upgrade?

[@joshdimovski4483]

I have both the hta7000 and hta9 , the ht a9 is superior with the Sony OLED tv helping with the centre channel and sw5 sub . The ht a9 actually sounds like a mini home theatre while the hta7000 sound is boxed in being a soundbar.

[@golf18mike]

I love for you to do a setup and best settings in the app for this. Samsung Q990B is this possible? I'm just not sure what I'm adjusting when going into the app for the difference speakers in the sound bar

[@alltheboost801]

Where would you rank the JBL1300X? I know you’ve reviewed them as well. I bought the JBL1300x and I’m debating on keeping it or trading in for the Sony 7000 and RS speakers. I want and need truly 100% wireless speakers. I have a vaulted ceilings and the JBL system/Dolby atmos sounds amazing. Setup is so simple and calibration of the rears is easy as well. I was going to buy the Samsung setup but fell in love with truly wireless rear speakers.

[@didney_worl172]

What about the Harman Kardon Citation Multibeam 1100?

[@theforeignerinamerica1817]

I am debating whether buying the hw-990b vs ht-a9 for my place. Either a Samsung TV or Sony TV depending on the sound

[@singhkkkeshav9156]

Which soudbar gives atmos effect please tell me sir .Sony,samsung

[@mingomane1]

Could you review the mid tier bars too? I’m looking at the Samsung ha-q930b. I value your opinion. I feel like it may be just the 950t just without the cloth. Thank you for all you do.

[@davidgallego3418]

Great work and love your reviews. Please, can you help me to take a decíssion? I want to use just with projector, which one would you buy (I’m not from us, so nakamichi it’s impossible) and will use it just for movies. Thks again!!!!

[@timowthie]

A9

[@terellseitz]

Is there anyway to get Chromecast on the Q990B in the US?

[@neverenoughtech]

Buy a Chromecast device and plug it into an input

[@slicklace]

Can you give us your settings for the A9 please?

[@neverenoughtech]

Auto sound , Auto volume off , rears ~5, Sub ~3 : generally in that neighborhood

[@slicklace]

@@neverenoughtech Thank you 😊 just generally where I have mine too 👍🏾!

[@toyotamarkgraham6050]

Sony HTA9 fantastic surround sound but with no centre channel the dialogue was very poor and the drop outs made me send it back .Samsung 990B ,this is the one to get folks great sound all round and you get a sub with it for half the price of the HTA9 and the surround sound is close to the HTA9 ,no drop outs at all . SonyHTA-7000 dont bother terible

[@pratikbhumralkar6608]

As always, great review! I am planning to buy the Q990B and pair it with Samsung (55inc) 2019 model, which does not specifically have Dolby atmos output, the max it can support is Dolby digital+, does that mean it won't channel atmos signal even if the content on netflix or other leading OTT platforms offers that? thanks in advance

[@neverenoughtech]

DD+ supports atmos - like Netflix atmos. I generally test these bars by plugging streaming boxes directly into them bypassing the TV issue … which is especially if your tv does not have eARC. So sound goes right to the bar and then video to the tv … solves your sound worries - in your case you would want to plug in your BR player to the bar to maintain lossless audio that your TV would not support if you plugged into the TV

[@pratikbhumralkar6608]

@@neverenoughtech great! thank you!

[@musicvideos4536]

Great review as always. Was considering trading in my full Sonos system for the full Sony A7 system as like my Sony TV and PS5. The PS5 has the option to push 3D audio to the speakers, but it sounded terrible on my Sonos system, so had to turn it off. FOMO also says to turn off the 3D audio option in his review of the A7. I’m starting to think that it is not the speakers, but the 3D codex is just not that good, which is sad because it is a main selling point for Sony products.

[@S1mmz]

Will you give the baby Sennheiser Ambeo plus a review or will you skip it :)?

[@joshuvaantonio]

Where is the super thanks button? I need to support you Wow ! Finally the video i was searching for ❤️ You saved tons of my money. I am going with HT-A9 with Sw5 One single question: Do i need to buy a Sony Flagship product to get that centre channel as tv or should that feature be "off" ie am i free to choose any Tv? I am considering 97 inch LG G2 / 83 inch Sony A80L / 77 inch Sony A95L By the way your videos are so hilarious and detailed to watch. Even the hand gestures you done twice while showing other videos on that "specific topic"

[@neverenoughtech]

I don’t feel comfortable speaking up for the functionality of the center channel other than a Sony TV and look for that center feature when buying … glad you got something out of the video … means a lot

[@joshuvaantonio]

@@neverenoughtech So i should stick on with Sony. But still where is the thanks button. I want to support you. You saved me a lot of money

[@ZvIOoZvIKki]

Hello , can you review 930B also?

[@mingomane1]

Should I buy a used vizio elevate for $400 or buy a open box Samsung hw-q930b for $800?

[@neverenoughtech]

Samsung

[@mingomane1]

@@neverenoughtech not many reviews on the 930 but it seems it’s basically a 950t just minus the cloth.

[@mingomane1]

@@neverenoughtech also thank you very much for the reply. I watch every video.

[@mingomane1]

@@neverenoughtech got the Samsung q930b and wow just wow. Can’t imagine what a 950a or 990b is like. Object surround was my main goal and this delivers.

[@golf18mike]

So I love your videos. Let me tell you very well done. Now I have a simple question... Can you recommend a couple of movies that I can pull up and show my wife and friends to display the full potential of my q990b?

[@neverenoughtech]

Mad Max (Atmos), Blade Runner 2049 (Atmos), The Revenant (DTSX), Ford vs Ferrari (Atmos), and Dune (Atmos) good places to start. I do recommend playing physical copies so that you the the lossless tracks ... makes a difference.

[@webenginer]

Great job man, keep on going! Quick one, which projector do you use have you ever had experience with UST? Do you have any UST to recommend? :)

[@neverenoughtech]

No experience with UST. I use the LG Cinebeam HU810PW (long throw). Good for the price w/eARC- looks pretty good at night - invest in a compatible ALR screen if you want to view during the day

[@webenginer]

@@neverenoughtech about the soundbar, I went for the Q990B because my understanding was that is needed much more room behind the sofa for the A9. Instead i actually have no room, so the Q990B have a good trade off plus I got a crazy good deal (or just a price mistake) and I am quite happy with that!

[@hellterskeltor]

Please do a review on the nakamichi dragon if in one it comes out.

[@HieronymousCheese]

Thank you very much for your vids. Very informative. I'm about to jump in, but music is more important to me than movies (not that movies are unimportant!!), and I want to know my FLACs and lossless OGGs are still going to move me. I'm not interested in hiphop, drum'n'bass, etc, but otherwise varied from classic rock to classical to folk to 60s70s80s to rhythm&blues. Also, I'm wondering what's just around the corner. Many of these bars are gaining years.

[@neverenoughtech]

True the Q990B is the newest … if you’re really mostly interested in music I would suggest an nice powered stereo pair like the SVS prime wireless pro. Will give you lots of options to wire in and play music and will make the TV sound really nice too. Just the pair would be far cheaper and better looking than any of these bars … if not the A990C may work well for you. No one in my audience is into modern music as the youngest person who watches me is like 35yo

[@HieronymousCheese]

@@neverenoughtech Thanks for your reply. I have a nice stereo setup, but was hoping to add Atmos and a great movie experience without sacrificing musicality. I know you can "never have enough tech", but I'd be verging on the ridiculous if I don't make a decision! Q990B currently at 980 EUR and Sennheiser Max at 2000 EUR. 😁

[@MrBjorn6]

My heart is set on the Nakamichi Dragon sounds system 11.4.6 3000 Watts for $3500. Which is cheap compared to Bang and Olfusen $7000 soundbar

[@neverenoughtech]

I’m floored by the specs on that thing … changes the game and makes it more expensive

[@MrBjorn6]

@@neverenoughtech waiting on you testing it? The creative x-fi Sonic soundbar in 2018 was retailing for $5800 in 2018. However it lost the shootout at CES in 2018 at CES to the Nakamichi shockwafe 9.2.4 SSE that was selling for $1100.

[@juandoe7802]

Man for that amount you can get better sound and cheaper from separates. Even if you pay someone to install in ceiling speakers it's cheaper. That Nakamichi is an eyesore too.

[@MrBjorn6]

@@juandoe7802 you are entitled to your opinion 🤔

[@MrBjorn6]

​@@neverenoughtechWell it was worth the wait 🙏

[@ARP1714]

can you please do a Smart Speaker faceoff (Echo studio, homepod, Sonos One/Five and their stereo pairs)? Love your content

[@oldsnwbrdr]

You should hear Master and Commander (1080p blu Ray with DTS) on the A9. It will make you ask “Atmos who?”

[@neverenoughtech]

I’ve heard I should seek that out … maybe I’ll make it happen this time

[@oldsnwbrdr]

@@neverenoughtech the first 10 minutes of the film… including the simple creaking of the ship… and the cannons of course, blow away any of my Atmos 4Ks, especially the underwhelming Top Gun Maverick sound quality.

[@AF-rd2vf]

I had the A7000 and wasn’t that impressed. Sent it back and moved to the A9 and initially had severe dropout problems. Come to find out it was defective and had the dealer send out a replacement which proved to be the case. For me the A9 was the right choice for me.

[@simonjohnhinton1938]

not long bought a hwq990b and its been fantastic. so easy to set up and dolby atmos just blows me away. it only cost me £718 so it was a bit of a bargain! the soundbar is a bit of a heavyweight beast and the sub aint no lightweight either as i found out when dragging the box upstairs to my man-cave😂

[@JayPatrol]

I have a lg c3 55 inch and plan on getting either Sony hta9 or lg S90QY Samsung is not my favorite, I just came from a Samsung tv and Soundbar 5🤧 out of 🤧 for Samsung

[@Music.Movies.67]

Nacamichi Dragon Soundbar System would eat all these other Soundbars for Breakfast and Spit the Drivers Out

[@neverenoughtech]

The others have the advantage of being purchasable

[@Music.Movies.67]

@@neverenoughtech Be coming out soon

[@Youtubeuser1aa]

Have you heard it?

[@benjaminholz7117]

The Sony Ht-A9 have a Problem, in Linus Tech Tipps he Shows that this Set Spam so much WiFi that other products have Problems (syr No nativ english).

[@neverenoughtech]

Well I have 100s of Wi-Fi products. I have not experienced any discernible degradation in performance of other devices. So I can’t confirm their report

[@Im-sure]

I’d have to hear that to say my Sonos isn’t better because holy crap… but I’m in a small room. If I had a huge room probably might go A9s Or Klipsch depending on what I felt like spending lol

[@warpathh]

No...the Dragon is the best one right now.

[@neverenoughtech]

Well I’m into the details like whether it can be purchased

[@Youtubeuser1aa]

When did you hear it?

[@warpathh]

@@KZbinuser1aa at a big trade show.

[@satyak1337]

Battery powered surround is useless for many.Sony new surrond cost whopping 599... paying for the battery feature i will never use. They could have gone $399 without battery.

[@wasswass383]

Hello je vous regarde depuis la France excellent contenu j’aime beaucoup votre technique de présenter ses produit j’ai besoin d’aide j’hésite beaucoup depuis 1 mois avant d’acheter j’ai la tv sony a95k je ne sais pas comment sa sonne avec la tv en voix central je me dis que je pourrais encore plus écarter les haut parleur avant avec la télé au centre mais je ne sais pas comment le son sera avec la tv?? donc j’hésite avec le q990b et le ht a9? Si quelqu’un a des avis merci beaucoup

[@PozerKiller]

I don't mate. I'm watching this review and I've got impression you're doing everything to underestimate HT-A7000. I tested all 3 other them and ht a7000 beats a shit out of the other 2.

[@neverenoughtech]

Ok, very technical, don’t agree but glad you got your answer

[@kencrittenden29]

Vizio M series all in one 6 speakers

[@jamesrobinson2086]

Bose has ALWAYS been effective in implementation, but when compared to the quality and range of other equivalent offerings... *ALWAYS* falls short in both quality and performance.. . Bose has always been over-priced, over-hyped, and over-rated... . I used to have to Demo them in the test room when I was A/T/V Media Manager for Fry's Electronics.... they were ALWAYS a train-wreck in comparison when the set-up didn't cheat