Sony will make its two top soundbars, HT-A7000 and HT-A5000, more capable this spring through a software update that adds '360 Spatial Sound Mapping'. Sony will also launch new rear speakers.
Update 18.4.2022: The update is now available. It can be downloaded manually for HT-A5000 (
US /
Europe) and for HT-A7000 (
US /
Europe) after which it can be installed via USB stick. It can also be downloaded directly fromt he soundbar if it is connected to the internet.
360 Spatial Audio
Sony first introduced 360 Spatial Sound Mapping with the HT-A9 system in 2021. The same audio technology will soon come to Sony's new soundbars.
For it to work, the soundbar must be connected to rear speakers. Users can connect either the currently available SA-RS3S wireless rear speakers or the new SA-RS5 wireless rear speakers (with up-firing speakers and a 10-hour battery) that will launch in spring 2022 for $600. More details can found in the table below.
Also read: Review: Sony HT-A7000 soundbar (+ rear and sub)
With its Spatial Sound system Sony aims to create 'phantom speakers'
What is 360 Spatial Sound Mapping? Sony explains:
With Sony's revolutionary 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology, customers can feel sound from every direction and distance. Using Sound Field Optimization, the soundbar uses built-in microphones to ingeniously measures the relative height and position of the soundbar and rear speakers. 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology then creates multiple phantom speakers by synthesizing sound waves based on positional information. Thanks to this technology, Sony's wide spatial sound field fills every part of the living space, so everyone gets the same sound experience, wherever they are in the room.
The software update required to enable 360 Spatial Sound Mapping on the HT-A7000 and HT-A5000 soundbars will be released in spring 2022.
Sony added that users can also use 'Acoustic Center Sync' to let both the soundbar and a supported Sony TV become the center speaker in a home theatre system. This works in conjunction with 360 Spatial Sound Mapping.
Acoustic Center Sync is supported on the following Sony TV models: Z9K, A95K, A90K, A80K, X95K, X90K, Z9J, A90J, A80J and X95J.
Sony SA-RS3S rear speakers – features
| - Create immersive and clear sound: Up-firing speakers reflect sound off the ceiling for more immersive overhead audio. Both wide directivity woofers and soft dome tweeters create a rich, expansive soundstage that offers exceptional clarity. Dual passive radiators enhance low-end tones, giving bass a boost.
- Long-lasting battery life: With up to 10 hours of battery life when fully charged, the speakers offer flexible installation to fit any living room setup. They can be charged out of sight and easily powered up to automatically make a wireless connection with a compatible soundbar. It's quick and easy with no need for messy cables. If in a hurry, just 10 minutes of charge will give 90 minutes of use. SA-RS5 rear speakers also feature AC power connections for dual use.
One touch sound calibration: The SA-RS5 comes with OPTIMIZE buttons and dual microphones in each speaker. Activate Sound Field Optimization by pressing the OPTIMIZE button on the unit and the speakers, combined with a compatible soundbar, will intelligently measure the distance between the speakers and ceiling using dual microphones.
Easily integrated speaker design: These speakers are designed using an Omnidirectional Block concept to match Sony's compatible soundbars. The cylindrical shape represents a single solid block and their flat rear surface fits perfectly against a wall. |
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