Philips has unveiled a line-up of new soundbars with features like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and DTS Play-Fi. The flagship Fidelio B97 is a 7.1.2-channel system. Company also unveiled its first Ambilight speakers.

7.1.2-channel Dolby Atmos
Philips Audio is now managed by the same company, TP Vision, that manages Philips TV in Europe, and today it re-introduced the Philips Fidelio brand and unveiled a full line-up of soundbar systems.

Spearhearding the new line-up is the Philips Fidelio B97, which is a 7.1.2-channel 740W system with 17 drivers, a wireless 8-inch subwoofer (down to 35Hz), and two detachable rear speakers that "function as part of the left and right channels when connected to the main bar or as dedicated left and right surround channels when separated from the bar and placed elsewhere in the room".



The high-end soundbar is also equipped with two up-firing units for Dolby Atmos overhead effects and two angled, side-firing tweeters that "are hidden in the main body and only become active when the detachable speakers are removed". Furthermore, it supports DTS:X and has been certified 'IMAX Enhanced' as the first soundbar on the market, noted Philips.

- "Immerse in the drama. Feel the emotion. This Fidelio soundbar with detachable satellite speakers and Dolby Atmos will surround you with incredibly detailed, realistic sound. Deep bass adds palpable impact to effects and music," the company said.

Users will also be able to take advantage of Apple AirPlay 2 and bluetooth for music playback.



Soundbar line-up & Ambilight speakers
The 5.1.2-channel Fidelio B95 is a lower-priced version of the Fidelio B97 without the detachable speakers for surround but inclusive of all the other features such as Atmos, DTS:X, DTS Play-Fi, and Apple AirPlay 2. Both can be connected to a TV via HDMI eARC.

The line-up also includes the 3.1.2-channel B8905, other new soundbars, and two wireless speakers called W6205 and W6505 that can be used as music speakers via AirPlay 2, Chromecast, DTS Play-Fi and Bluetooth, or as extra TV speakers.

The two W6205 and W6505 speakers "can easily sync with the Philips TV to extend the immersive effect of Ambilight further into the room". In other words; Philips' first Ambilight speakers.



A unique feature is DTS Play-Fi, which will lets owners of 2020 Philips Android TVs (and 2019 Philips Android TV via a coming firmware update) connect their TV wirelessly to the soundbar. DTS Play-Fi also acts as a multiroom system for music.

The new soundbars launch into a competitive space. TV makers like LG, Samsung, and Sony as well as audio brands like Yamaha and Sennheiser also offer Dolby Atmos soundbars. Philips believes that there is room for its products, too. During its presentation, the company cited market research which shows that 80% of soundbar buyers opt for the same brand as their TV.

Philips Fidelio B97 and B95 will launch in Europe in the fourth quarter of 2020. Pricing details will be announced soon. Additional information can be found in the tables below.